Shadows of Deceit: A Gritty Noir Mystery of Corruption and Betrayal

by Timothy R. Baldwin

A rookie PI. A city full of secrets. One deadly game she may not survive.

When rookie private investigator Cassie Maddox takes on her first big case in the gritty streets of Lenape City, she stumbles into a web of corruption, betrayal, and murder.

What begins as a simple job spirals into a dangerous cat-and-mouse chase with the city’s most powerful figures.

Haunted by her father’s legacy as a decorated detective, Cassie is determined to prove herself—even if it means uncovering secrets that cut too close to home.

To find the truth, she must risk her independence, her family, and maybe even her life.

Early readers are already

From the very first page, Shadows of Deceit pulls you into a dark, gritty world where trouble and lies hide behind every fancy front.
— E. L. Bean, Author

A heart-pounding thriller of intrigue, betrayal, and redemption that will keep readers hooked until the very last page.
— Jennifer Hill, Reedsy Discovery

Quick, engaging, and the kind you finish in one sitting. I can’t wait to see Cassie’s next case.
— Jennie Rosenblum, Editor

Perfect for fans
✔ Gillian Flynn
✔ Michael Connelly
✔ Raymond Chandler
✔ Karin Slaughter

If you love female-led noir mysteries, crime thrillers full of twists, and private-eye fiction with a dark edge, you’ll be hooked on Shadows of Deceit.
Grab your copy today.

Genres: Amazon

264 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 14, 2025

About the author

Tim grew up in Syracuse, New York. He currently resides in Maryland where he teaches English, Creative Writing, Film, and Theatre on the middle school level. At the insistence of his own students, he began writing seriously in 2014.

He credits his love for story to his mother, who spent countless hours reading to him and his siblings when they were growing up. Growing up, he devoured the literary works of C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, Piers Anthony, and many others. Mysteries, thrillers, and fantasies are among the genres he most frequently reads.

When he’s not writing, he’s reading, teaching, camping, or at a live music concert.

Reviews

[Confuzedxneko · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was gifted this book only really knowing that it was a Mystery novel. It drew me in completely in the first chapter!

We meet Cassie, a budding new PI looking to build her reputation and credibility, while also trying to escape her father's legacy and shadow. This was full of suspense and several plot twists. Every new character and every new piece of evidence seems to point toward someone different, and no one seems to be trustworthy at some points. While there are questions left unanswered and plenty of intrigue left to explore, this certainly was a great opening story for Cassie Maddox and after the way this one ended I can't wait to see what happens next!

[J C · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a compelling story for those who enjoy a strong female lead character. Baldwin’s character development of Cassie Maddox makes the reader root along with the main character as she attempts to prove to herself and to her father that she can be a successful private investigator. This book also includes an interesting twist at the end with a Spotify playlist and cocktail pairings!

[Estelle Bouldin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I went into Shadows of Deceit by Timothy R. Baldwin expecting a straightforward PI mystery—and ended up getting something with a lot more layers, both emotionally and narratively.

At the heart of the story is Cassie Maddox, a rookie private investigator trying to prove herself while navigating the weight of her past and her father’s legacy in law enforcement. Cassie is one of those protagonists who feels refreshingly human—she makes mistakes, second-guesses herself, and occasionally takes risks that make you want to yell “don’t do that!”—but that’s exactly what makes her compelling. She’s not polished, and that works in the book’s favor.

What starts as a seemingly simple case of suspected infidelity quickly spirals into something much darker involving financial corruption, power plays, and shifting loyalties. I really appreciated how the plot unfolds—layer by layer—without feeling rushed. The transition from small-time PI work to a high-stakes investigation feels natural and earned.

The setting of Lenape City is another standout. It has a noir-inspired atmosphere with just enough modern edge to keep it grounded. The city almost feels like a character itself—full of secrets, shadows, and connections that run deeper than they first appear.

The supporting cast adds depth, especially Lila and Rafi, who bring warmth and balance to the tension. Their relationships with Cassie help ground the story emotionally, preventing it from becoming too heavy or purely plot-driven.

Some moments—especially in the investigative process—lean a bit convenient, and I occasionally wanted more depth in certain antagonistic elements.

Overall, this is a solid start to a mystery series with a relatable lead, a strong sense of place, and a plot that keeps expanding in interesting ways. I’d definitely continue with the series to see how Cassie evolves—and how deep the corruption in Lenape City really goes.

[Amber Daulton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cassie Maddox is determined to prove herself a competent private investigator and escape her detective father’s shadow. After her routine adultery case turns into an intricate web of danger, she’s determined to solve the case no matter what.
I really liked Cassie. She’s strong-willed, stubborn, and smart enough to know when she needs to ask for help, except for when it comes to asking her father. I’m not sure how I feel about her dad. On one hand, he just wants to protect his daughter; on the other hand, he kept her in the dark, which put her life in danger, and didn’t respect her or think her capable of solving the case. At times, though, Cassie was naïve and reckless, so I understand her father’s point of view.
Even though I liked the characters, I found the book confusing at times. Cassie is investigating a lot of illegal activities, but what are those activities? Only money laundering and, later on, murder, was mentioned. The rest was left vague.
Cassie’s repetitive dialogues and inner monologues kept pulling me from the story. She kept thinking, “I file away…” and she kept saying, “I’m processing…” Her two best friends, Rafi and Lila, kept saying to her, “You look like you’ve seen a ghost.” Even after being warned that there are ears everywhere, she would often speak aloud to herself. All this repetition and naiveté grew tiresome.
There are also little inconsistencies. Lila had a purple streak in her hair, then it’s blue, then it’s purple again. The package delivered to her house had a burner phone inside, which she never used, but then a few hours later, she got another package with a burner phone and used that one.
There are lots of unanswered questions, but the main plot is finished with ongoing threads that will hopefully be taken care of in latter installments.
Overall, this is a good mystery crime thriller. It just needs another round of edits to tighten things up.
3.5 Stars

[William Wright · Rating 4 out of 5]

An intriguing mystery concerning back room dealing, corruption and city politics, Shadows of Deceit works well as a YA novel, something for younger people to enjoy before graduating to the likes of James Ellroy and Walter Mosley. Young twentysomethng Cassie Maddox is a rookie PI getting started, trying to get out from under the shadow of her father, a seasoned police detective. A simple cheating husband assignment turns up something else when the husband is found dead from an apparent suicide.

Like any good mystery, Cassie begins peeling the onion with help from friend Rafi, an old school friend and IT savant. Bit by bit, she uncovers a scheme of corruption and money laundering hidden behind real estate development projects, and she soon sees that she's in over her head. Nonetheless she follows the clues and presses on, gaining the wrong kind of attention. Certain people in Lenape City don't want her poking into certain arrangements.

The dirty dealings run far and wide, more than she originally suspected, and even her own uncle poses a threat. Cassie has to balance her drive for finding the truth against her relationship with her father, loyalty to friends, and just staying alive against people who want to keep their secrets secret.

This one is a page turner in the second half, so settle in, buckle your seatbelt, and enjoy the ride.

This review came from reading a free advance copy, and I'm voluntarily reviewing the novel.

[Shilo Goodson · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked the overall plot of this book. Even though I only gave this book 3 stars, I'd be willing to give the second book a chance. I would say that there were moments of greatness in the book and then places where I was disappointed.

One of the biggest issues was that there were places in the story where the plot didn't fully make sense. At times, it felt like the author had skipped ahead. I'd go back and see if I'd missed something, and I hadn't. There were also a few places where based upon the information that was presented, the actions of the characters later didn't make sense. For example, Cassie is convinced that a certain person is corrupt and involved in the case she is working to solve. She knows this person knows she suspects them. Without being coerced into the vehicle, she then decides to get in the vehicle with this person. In other places, she makes similar decisions, which really don't make sense. I also feel like the way that Cassie and some of the other characters talk doesn't fit with their presented ages.

There are a handful of swear words in this book. There's no sexual content or graphic violence.

I got a free ARC from BookSirens, and I left a voluntary review.

[Jennie Rosenblum · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve enjoyed a few of this author’s YA books in the past, so I was curious — and a little excited — to see him trying his pen at adult fiction. Cassie, the main character, is a fresh face in the PI world, but she’s not starting from scratch. With a detective dad, she’s picked up plenty of secondhand know-how over the years (even if some of it came through overheard dinner conversations rather than formal training).

Now in her twenties, Cassie is in that stage of life where she’s not quite sure which road to take — except this one has danger, puzzles, and more than a few shadows lurking around the corners. Between finding her footing as a private investigator and unraveling tangled cases, she’s constantly balancing the thrill of the chase with the risks that come with it.

What unfolds is a sharp cat-and-mouse thriller, where each twist tightens the stakes. The blend of youthful energy, family influence, and solid suspense made this one a quick, engaging read — the kind you finish and immediately wonder what Cassie’s next case might look like.

[Ciclochick · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really liked the sound of this but, ultimately, felt that some of the impact was lost in the delivery.

The present-tense narrative didn’t work (I hate it whenever it’s used) and limited the scope of the plot. In addition, while I’m more than comfortable with first-person POV, in this case, it reduced the depth of the story, and the main character, Cassie, came across as somewhat underdeveloped. There was rather too much ‘telling’ and little, if any, ‘showing’, giving a rather flat narrative.

The copy editing was mostly good, though a few minor errors slipped through (‘your welcome’ (oops) and confusion over lay/lie). The book would have benefited from stronger technical editing, particularly to address repetition. Certain phrases and ideas appeared frequently with little variation, which became distracting over time.

That said, the underlying plot was strong and engaging, and despite the aforementioned issues, the story was compelling.

[Jennifer Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed Shadows of Deceit! From the very first chapter, I was drawn into Cassie’s world — she’s such a smart, determined young private eye, and it was refreshing to see a strong yet relatable female lead take centre stage. The story is full of twists, secrets, and just the right amount of tension to keep me turning the pages late into the night. Baldwin’s writing flows beautifully, and he paints both the characters and settings so vividly that I could almost see it all unfolding like a film.

I’m already eager to see what happens next for Cassie — she’s a character I definitely want to follow as she faces new challenges and unravels more mysteries!

The artwork on the front cover really drew my attention to this book, and it didn’t disappoint.

[R.L. Hare · Rating 5 out of 5]

Huzzah to Timothy R. Baldwin for writing Shadows of Deceit.

This novel drops a rookie private investigator into a case. Cassie Maddox comes across as capable but still learning, which gives the story credibility and tension. Lenape City is sketched with a hard edge that fits the moral gray zones Cassie keeps stepping into, especially as corruption and personal history begin to overlap. The mystery moves quickly without losing track of character, and the twists are carefully placed. I appreciated how Cassie’s father’s legacy complicates her decisions rather than simply motivating them. The result is a crime story that balances investigation, risk, and consequence in a way that feels grounded.

I recommend that you buy this book, read it and leave it a review.

[S.S. Saywack · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first book in the series introduces Cassie Maddox, the detective. Her first major case turns out to be very major and involves twists, turns, betrayal and confusion. Also introduced are several characters whom I assume will feature in subsequent books. Cassie is impulsive, wants to show she’s capable, and this all leads to bad decisions and danger. The read is entertaining, and the plot drives along at a fair pace. The complicated plot is broken down into smaller, easily digestible pieces. I enjoyed this, the first book and my appetite is whetted for the other books in the series. Cassie Maddox is an engaging lead, and the book is intelligent in its telling. Give it a go, and you won’t be disappointed. I wasn’t.

[Lori Peterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Recieved as a review copy from Booksirens, this is an honest review.

Shadows of Deceit is wondrously fun read with the author easy writing style coupled with characters Cassie Maddox and all of her complex personal and professional relationships that come as Cassie works to define herself as a private investigator. Her open and shut case of a woman's cheating husband turns out to so much more complicated than first believed. A web of secrets and shadowy abuses with money surrounding powerful businesses within Lenape City could bring things crashing down and help define Cassie's future career.

Highly recommended.

[Rebecca Evans · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good read but missing something

This book started a little slow but eventually worked itself into a page turner. However, it did have a few things that I didn’t like. There were small things like name changes and repeated statements that you just don’t find in well-edited books.
What gives this book three stars are the plot holes. For instance, there is one part where some information is so critical and dangerous that it must be talked about immediately but a whole weekend goes by and when they do talk about it, it is almost inconsequential. I find those things difficult to admire in a book.
Overall, it is a pretty good book if you don’t mind some inconsistencies.

[E.L. · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Lenape City has a memory. The streets remember secrets, the skyline bears witness to corruption, and the shadows have their own loyalties.”

From the very first page, Shadows of Deceit pulls you into a dark, gritty world where trouble and lies hide behind every fancy front. Rookie private investigator Cassie Maddox is as interesting as the city she works in, clever, imperfect, and determined to find the truth. Timothy R. Baldwin tells an exciting mystery full of twists, sharp dialogue, and characters that really stick with you.

Another masterpiece by this author.

[Robert Plant · Rating 5 out of 5]

First off, I need to address the cover and how it completely captures the tone of this book. The artwork is amazing and sets the vibe for an elusive thriller that made me want to know what happens next with every turn of the page. I gobbled this book up in a few days thanks to the straightforward writing, impressive dialogue, and the tapestry of crime and mystery continually unraveling with every step Cassie made. If you like crime thrillers and mysteries with an edge, you'll thoroughly enjoy this one. I can't wait for the sequel!!

[Melissa Willis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved all the twists and turns of this book! I loved meeting Cassie and her friends. This book really kept me guessing! Just when you thought you knew who the bad guy was, nope not them. Can't wait to read the next Cassie Maddox mystery! Really loved the little drink recipes at the end that went with the book.

[Peggy · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Shadows of Deceit" by Timothy R Baldwin is a gripping noir mystery set in Lenape City, featuring rookie PI Cassie Maddox. The novel combines a tense atmosphere, complex characters, and a web of corruption and murder. With unexpected twists and a vivid urban setting, it’s a compelling start to the series, highly recommended for fans of crime thrillers.

[Becca · Rating 5 out of 5]

this was an incredible book. i'm still trying to...process it. From the very first page you are hooked. I could not put it down! Cassie was such a good character. The world building in this was phenomal. I definitely want to see more of her. I want more of this series!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lydia Adam · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shadows of Deceit delivers classic noir tension with a fresh, modern edge. Cassie Maddox is a sharp and determined rookie PI whose vulnerability makes her strength even more compelling.

Lenape City feels alive with corruption and danger, creating the perfect backdrop for a gripping mystery.

[Nichole Lawrence · Rating 4 out of 5]

'Shadows of Deceit' is a fast moving and suspenseful whodunit that keeps you guessing. Nuances of romance, friendship, family drama, and the angst of being a young adult round out the characters and story. Can't wait to see what Cassie does next in the sequels. The playlist and cocktail recipes at the end are fantastic.

[ChapterAddict Aka Kelly Brewer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

This book comes out swinging from the first page and does not let up at all. It drops you straight into a rough city full of dirty deals and people hiding secrets under every streetlight. I was not even settled in before things started going sideways. Cassie is the kind of lead who does not wait around to be saved. She digs, pushes, and keeps moving even when common sense says slow down.

Cassie has a past hanging on her like a heavy coat. Her father is a big time lawman, and she is trying hard to prove she is not just living in his shadow. That tension feels real, like family dinners that go quiet for no good reason. The story does a solid job showing how that pressure messes with her head while she is still trying to do the right thing in a city where right and wrong are all tangled up.

The corruption runs deep and mean. Powerful people are playing games with money and favors and thinking they cannot be touched. I liked how every answer Cassie finds only opens the door to more trouble. It keeps the pace moving and makes you question who is going to turn next. The danger feels close and personal, like one bad step and everything falls apart.

What really worked for me was the mood. The city feels worn down and full of lies. You can feel the weight on Cassie shoulders as she keeps pushing forward even when it costs her peace and safety. This is not a shiny hero story. It is tense, rough, and honest about the price of digging too deep.

I give it a 4 outta 5 Catfish!