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Dwayne Morrow Mystery #8
Delusion: Dwayne Morrow Mystery #8
Death isn’t always where the story ends…
When Dwayne Morrow invites his parents to an Easter celebration at his house, they politely decline, citing distance and his father’s recent health scare as reasons not to make the lengthy trip.
Exhausted from hosting the all-day event, Dwayne is pulled from a sound sleep by a persistent pounding at his door. He’s startled to find his dad pacing the front porch, wild-eyed and rambling. Convinced that his father is experiencing his worst delusion yet, Dwayne tries to talk him down, which only increases his agitation. He came for assistance, not condescension, but what he says next gives Dwayne reason for pause.
He’s having visions about Dwayne’s sister, Gina. He knows things he couldn’t possibly know. And he’s determined to set things right, with or without Dwayne’s help.
Delusion is the eighth explosive entry in the Dwayne Morrow Mystery series!
When Dwayne Morrow invites his parents to an Easter celebration at his house, they politely decline, citing distance and his father’s recent health scare as reasons not to make the lengthy trip.
Exhausted from hosting the all-day event, Dwayne is pulled from a sound sleep by a persistent pounding at his door. He’s startled to find his dad pacing the front porch, wild-eyed and rambling. Convinced that his father is experiencing his worst delusion yet, Dwayne tries to talk him down, which only increases his agitation. He came for assistance, not condescension, but what he says next gives Dwayne reason for pause.
He’s having visions about Dwayne’s sister, Gina. He knows things he couldn’t possibly know. And he’s determined to set things right, with or without Dwayne’s help.
Delusion is the eighth explosive entry in the Dwayne Morrow Mystery series!
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About the author
Darin Miller
17 books435 followersDarin Miller was born in Portsmouth but currently resides in Grove City, both of which are located in Ohio. While he has worked in Information Technology for three decades, he has not solved a single, solitary crime to date. He is the BookFest award-winning author of the Ohio-based Dwayne Morrow Mystery series, as well as an unrelated short story collection, Broken Bits and Bobs, and a standalone psychological horror thriller, Equilibrium. With equal parts action, humor, suspense and mystery, the Dwayne Morrow series features characters you’re sure to love—and in some cases, loathe.
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
August 6, 2025
From the very first page of Delusion, you’re pulled right back into Dwayne’s world. You just know, somewhere between possibly dropping a ham and avoiding the demon child, that something is about to go down. I wasn’t expecting what happened next, though. When his dad, Todd, arrives on his doorstep in the dead of night, a little sliver of concern and dread slithers through you. You won’t be alone, Dwayne and Melanie are equally worried, and that’s the reason Dwayne embarks on an unexpected road trip.
Dwayne and his father are on a mission, not just to solve a case, but to find Dwayne's sister, who ‘died’ nine months ago. Todd no longer believes she’s dead, not when his dreams are telling him otherwise. Dwayne, having been tortured with the same knowledge after a visit from his recently ‘deceased’ sister (you’ll want to read book four, Diversion, so this storyline makes sense), he finally takes his father into confidence about what really happened to their beloved Gina. WHOA BOY, that did not go over well, but when trapped in a car together, the only way forward is understanding and forgiveness. Following their only lead about Gina, they dig into the life of a powerful senator and the boys' reformatory school she champions. What begins as a trip to uncover Gina’s whereabouts unravels into a much larger conspiracy, forcing Dwayne and Todd to pivot frequently and even, on occasion, break the law to save themselves. The most interesting part of their road trip is not them confronting the external threats, but Dwayne confronting the complex dynamics of his relationship with his father.
Darin excels at crafting a mystery that is both intricate and fast-paced. Just when you think you've figured out a piece of the puzzle, a new twist arrives that adds another layer of deception or a shocking revelation that keeps you turning the page to see if they can navigate the next challenge. You're constantly second-guessing every decision Dwayne and Todd face, making it nearly impossible to put the book down.
Dwayne Morrow has always been sharp and resourceful in a bumbling yet successful way, yet in Delusion, he’s driven by a deep sense of familial duty that clashes with what he would do in any other situation. His internal struggles, particularly those relating to his relationship with his father and sister, add a rich emotional depth to the story that lets you see a new side of Dwayne. He’s always been highly family-oriented, and his relationship with his fiancée, Melanie, and her daughter shows us that in each book, but this is different. This book shows the reader how far Dwayne will go to protect and save the people he loves most.
Darin’s cast of supporting characters is equally well-developed, each playing a crucial role in the unfolding drama, whether as allies, adversaries, or unwitting pawns. Senator Gorham, in particular, is a chillingly believable antagonist, embodying the insidious nature of how power corrupts those who always yearn for more of it.
Delusion is the final chapter of book four, Diversion, in my opinion, and he couldn’t have written it better. It's a gripping mystery and a poignant family drama rolled into one. Despite private investigator Dwayne Morrow being a novice, Delusion was a masterclass in suspense, delivering twists and turns that keep you on your toes. If you're looking for a book that will keep you on the edge of your seat, surprise you at every turn, and leave you with a feel-good ending you won’t see coming, then Delusion is an absolute must-read!
Dwayne and his father are on a mission, not just to solve a case, but to find Dwayne's sister, who ‘died’ nine months ago. Todd no longer believes she’s dead, not when his dreams are telling him otherwise. Dwayne, having been tortured with the same knowledge after a visit from his recently ‘deceased’ sister (you’ll want to read book four, Diversion, so this storyline makes sense), he finally takes his father into confidence about what really happened to their beloved Gina. WHOA BOY, that did not go over well, but when trapped in a car together, the only way forward is understanding and forgiveness. Following their only lead about Gina, they dig into the life of a powerful senator and the boys' reformatory school she champions. What begins as a trip to uncover Gina’s whereabouts unravels into a much larger conspiracy, forcing Dwayne and Todd to pivot frequently and even, on occasion, break the law to save themselves. The most interesting part of their road trip is not them confronting the external threats, but Dwayne confronting the complex dynamics of his relationship with his father.
Darin excels at crafting a mystery that is both intricate and fast-paced. Just when you think you've figured out a piece of the puzzle, a new twist arrives that adds another layer of deception or a shocking revelation that keeps you turning the page to see if they can navigate the next challenge. You're constantly second-guessing every decision Dwayne and Todd face, making it nearly impossible to put the book down.
Dwayne Morrow has always been sharp and resourceful in a bumbling yet successful way, yet in Delusion, he’s driven by a deep sense of familial duty that clashes with what he would do in any other situation. His internal struggles, particularly those relating to his relationship with his father and sister, add a rich emotional depth to the story that lets you see a new side of Dwayne. He’s always been highly family-oriented, and his relationship with his fiancée, Melanie, and her daughter shows us that in each book, but this is different. This book shows the reader how far Dwayne will go to protect and save the people he loves most.
Darin’s cast of supporting characters is equally well-developed, each playing a crucial role in the unfolding drama, whether as allies, adversaries, or unwitting pawns. Senator Gorham, in particular, is a chillingly believable antagonist, embodying the insidious nature of how power corrupts those who always yearn for more of it.
Delusion is the final chapter of book four, Diversion, in my opinion, and he couldn’t have written it better. It's a gripping mystery and a poignant family drama rolled into one. Despite private investigator Dwayne Morrow being a novice, Delusion was a masterclass in suspense, delivering twists and turns that keep you on your toes. If you're looking for a book that will keep you on the edge of your seat, surprise you at every turn, and leave you with a feel-good ending you won’t see coming, then Delusion is an absolute must-read!
September 12, 2025
I love this series. I highly suggest to anyone to read it. Book #9 sees Dwayne and his Dad on a road trip because of dreams his Dad is having about Gina, his daughter. His Dad believes she is still alive. They end up having quite the adventure which is normal for Dwayne. he can never seem to get out of his own way. Each book seems to get better and better.
September 18, 2025
couldn’t put down
This 8th installment of the Dwayne Morrow mysteries. Finds Dwayne and his on the road to bring Gina home. Mr. Morrow is suffering form and flashbacks of his past. Is Gina really still alive? He is dreams feel so real.
They set out on a road trip. There are many adventures along the way. A minor vehicle accident. Fending off some hired goons, borrowing someone’s identity to use a library computer. This are ally typical things that Dwayne deals with in every installment. I think Dwayne is getting better with his PI skills.. He didn’t have as many moments of being a bumbling idiot.. That nearly got himself killed in this one.. I am anxiously awaiting the next book in this series!!!
This 8th installment of the Dwayne Morrow mysteries. Finds Dwayne and his on the road to bring Gina home. Mr. Morrow is suffering form and flashbacks of his past. Is Gina really still alive? He is dreams feel so real.
They set out on a road trip. There are many adventures along the way. A minor vehicle accident. Fending off some hired goons, borrowing someone’s identity to use a library computer. This are ally typical things that Dwayne deals with in every installment. I think Dwayne is getting better with his PI skills.. He didn’t have as many moments of being a bumbling idiot.. That nearly got himself killed in this one.. I am anxiously awaiting the next book in this series!!!
December 18, 2025
Review:
"Delusion" by Darin Miller, the eighth installment in the Dwayne Morrow Mysteries series, is a gripping mystery that kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. The story begins with a family Easter celebration, with the absence of Dwayne’s parents, Todd and Jo, due to Todd’s recent health scares. So, imagine Dwayne’s surprise when Todd unexpectedly shows up on his doorstep in the middle of the night in a state of agitation and claiming to have dreams about Dwayne's sister, Gina. This sets off an unexpected and life-altering journey where Dwayne is forced to confront secrets and choices that could tear his family apart.
Todd’s dreams catalyze an intense and emotional road trip that Dwayne reluctantly embarks upon with his father. This journey is not just physical, but deeply emotional, as Dwayne is forced to confront past secrets and the toll Gina’s "death" has taken on their family. The relationship between Dwayne and his father is beautifully layered, filled with both tension and tenderness. As they travel through to Briarstaff, a place Dwayne hoped never to revisit, the journey becomes a transformative experience for both characters. The depth of their bond, tested by Todd’s health and the weight of family secrets (more secrets than what we readers thought we knew before), is portrayed with such nuance that I felt every moment of their struggle.
Darin Miller’s ability to weave intricate plots shines through in "Delusion." The narrative is enriched by a cast of perfectly fitting supporting characters who complement the main storyline. Each character, whether they appear briefly or remain throughout the book, plays a crucial role in enhancing the plot’s complexity. The dynamic relationships between characters, particularly the evolving bond between Dwayne and Todd, are depicted with such authenticity that they become the heart of the story. Darin Miller’s exploration of morally ambiguous characters adds layers of tension and intrigue.
The pacing of "Delusion" is masterfully crafted, maintaining a rhythm that kept me engaged and on edge. From the fast-paced beginning to the intense, gripping moments that follow, the story’s tempo never falters. (It picks up momentum, much like Todd’s driving.) The unexpected twists and turns kept me guessing at every chapter, and just when I thought the mystery was beginning to unravel, Darin Miller throws in a strategically placed twist that I did not see coming - and they are perfectly abundant. The settings and atmosphere are equally compelling; each so vividly and cinematically described that I felt as if I were right there with Dwayne and Todd, journeying through their world, making the reading experience all the more immersive.
What truly sets "Delusion" apart is its emotional depth. The characters are beautifully flawed and relatable, making their struggles and triumphs resonate on a personal level. I found myself laughing at the father-son antics, as well as Dwayne’s comedic relief, feeling sorrow for Todd’s confusion, and rooting for Dwayne to make the right choices. The emotional rollercoaster was relentless; I laughed, I cried, I gasped at the unexpected revelations, and I cheered for justice to prevail. The moments of silence between Dwayne and Todd, where unsaid words spoke louder than any dialogue, were particularly poignant, showcasing Darin Miller’s skill in portraying the subtleties of human emotion. You won't encounter more intricately developed characters than those crafted by this author.
In "Delusion," Darin Miller delivers a masterful blend of suspense, action, and emotional complexity. This book is a testament to his ability to craft a narrative that is both thrilling and deeply moving. As the story reached its killer of an ending, I was left jaw-dropped, releasing the breath I did not know I was holding. (Yes, Darin, I used the book phrase that I despise, but it fits this moment.) The epilogue, in particular, was a stunning conclusion that not only caught me off guard but left me smiling. If you’re seeking a book that will captivate your mind and touch your heart, "Delusion" is a must-read. It’s an exhilarating ride that leaves you remembering the tale long after the final page is turned.
Opinionated Book Rating:
Originality: 5.0/5.0
Plot Structure: 5.0/5.0
Pacing: 5.0/5.0
Dialogue and Narrative: 5.0/5.0
Personal Enjoyment: 5.0/5.0
Overall Rating: 5.0/5.0 (If I could give more stars, I would)
"Delusion" by Darin Miller, the eighth installment in the Dwayne Morrow Mysteries series, is a gripping mystery that kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. The story begins with a family Easter celebration, with the absence of Dwayne’s parents, Todd and Jo, due to Todd’s recent health scares. So, imagine Dwayne’s surprise when Todd unexpectedly shows up on his doorstep in the middle of the night in a state of agitation and claiming to have dreams about Dwayne's sister, Gina. This sets off an unexpected and life-altering journey where Dwayne is forced to confront secrets and choices that could tear his family apart.
Todd’s dreams catalyze an intense and emotional road trip that Dwayne reluctantly embarks upon with his father. This journey is not just physical, but deeply emotional, as Dwayne is forced to confront past secrets and the toll Gina’s "death" has taken on their family. The relationship between Dwayne and his father is beautifully layered, filled with both tension and tenderness. As they travel through to Briarstaff, a place Dwayne hoped never to revisit, the journey becomes a transformative experience for both characters. The depth of their bond, tested by Todd’s health and the weight of family secrets (more secrets than what we readers thought we knew before), is portrayed with such nuance that I felt every moment of their struggle.
Darin Miller’s ability to weave intricate plots shines through in "Delusion." The narrative is enriched by a cast of perfectly fitting supporting characters who complement the main storyline. Each character, whether they appear briefly or remain throughout the book, plays a crucial role in enhancing the plot’s complexity. The dynamic relationships between characters, particularly the evolving bond between Dwayne and Todd, are depicted with such authenticity that they become the heart of the story. Darin Miller’s exploration of morally ambiguous characters adds layers of tension and intrigue.
The pacing of "Delusion" is masterfully crafted, maintaining a rhythm that kept me engaged and on edge. From the fast-paced beginning to the intense, gripping moments that follow, the story’s tempo never falters. (It picks up momentum, much like Todd’s driving.) The unexpected twists and turns kept me guessing at every chapter, and just when I thought the mystery was beginning to unravel, Darin Miller throws in a strategically placed twist that I did not see coming - and they are perfectly abundant. The settings and atmosphere are equally compelling; each so vividly and cinematically described that I felt as if I were right there with Dwayne and Todd, journeying through their world, making the reading experience all the more immersive.
What truly sets "Delusion" apart is its emotional depth. The characters are beautifully flawed and relatable, making their struggles and triumphs resonate on a personal level. I found myself laughing at the father-son antics, as well as Dwayne’s comedic relief, feeling sorrow for Todd’s confusion, and rooting for Dwayne to make the right choices. The emotional rollercoaster was relentless; I laughed, I cried, I gasped at the unexpected revelations, and I cheered for justice to prevail. The moments of silence between Dwayne and Todd, where unsaid words spoke louder than any dialogue, were particularly poignant, showcasing Darin Miller’s skill in portraying the subtleties of human emotion. You won't encounter more intricately developed characters than those crafted by this author.
In "Delusion," Darin Miller delivers a masterful blend of suspense, action, and emotional complexity. This book is a testament to his ability to craft a narrative that is both thrilling and deeply moving. As the story reached its killer of an ending, I was left jaw-dropped, releasing the breath I did not know I was holding. (Yes, Darin, I used the book phrase that I despise, but it fits this moment.) The epilogue, in particular, was a stunning conclusion that not only caught me off guard but left me smiling. If you’re seeking a book that will captivate your mind and touch your heart, "Delusion" is a must-read. It’s an exhilarating ride that leaves you remembering the tale long after the final page is turned.
Opinionated Book Rating:
Originality: 5.0/5.0
Plot Structure: 5.0/5.0
Pacing: 5.0/5.0
Dialogue and Narrative: 5.0/5.0
Personal Enjoyment: 5.0/5.0
Overall Rating: 5.0/5.0 (If I could give more stars, I would)
August 10, 2025
Five stars... A tense, emotionally charged shift in the series with family secrets that lead to one unforgettable story.
Death isn’t always where the story ends…
As a huge fan of this series (and Darin Miller books in general), I couldn’t wait to get my hands on Delusion, so when I was offered an ARC, I jumped at the chance. And it was everything and more that I’d hoped for. Dwayne Morrow is one of my favorite characters, and this installment takes him on one hell of an emotional journey as it takes a deeper look into secrets, family dynamics, and personal fears.
Tense, full of suspense, and emotionally resonant: While other books in the series have leaned into team camaraderie and more of a fun mystery vibe, Delusion is rife with tension and suspense that you can’t help but telling yourself you'll read "just one more chapter."
And while I admit I struggled warming up to Dwayne’s dad at first, his pain, confusion, and desperate drive to find his daughter are so deeply human and felt in the raw emotions written on the page that you can’t help but empathize and lean into the character’s journey.
In short, Miller penned another five-star read for me, delivering a story layered with the humor I’ve come to expect mixed in with tension and an emotionally charged, page-flipping ride. Fans of the series won't be disappointed!
Death isn’t always where the story ends…
As a huge fan of this series (and Darin Miller books in general), I couldn’t wait to get my hands on Delusion, so when I was offered an ARC, I jumped at the chance. And it was everything and more that I’d hoped for. Dwayne Morrow is one of my favorite characters, and this installment takes him on one hell of an emotional journey as it takes a deeper look into secrets, family dynamics, and personal fears.
Tense, full of suspense, and emotionally resonant: While other books in the series have leaned into team camaraderie and more of a fun mystery vibe, Delusion is rife with tension and suspense that you can’t help but telling yourself you'll read "just one more chapter."
And while I admit I struggled warming up to Dwayne’s dad at first, his pain, confusion, and desperate drive to find his daughter are so deeply human and felt in the raw emotions written on the page that you can’t help but empathize and lean into the character’s journey.
In short, Miller penned another five-star read for me, delivering a story layered with the humor I’ve come to expect mixed in with tension and an emotionally charged, page-flipping ride. Fans of the series won't be disappointed!
September 20, 2025
Darin Miller’s latest release definitely did not disappoint. Dwayne always finds himself in the middle of chaos, and this time he isn’t in it alone. Dwayne’s father Todd Morrow ( which I love) has been having spells, where he doesn’t know where he is. The only thing so far the doctors know is he has a spot on his brain. In addition he is having visions that he swears has nothing to do with his spells. But he firmly believes his visions are real . And the adventure begins. When answers start to surface, so do secrets. The closer they get, the more dangerous the search gets. The visions are real, or possibly delusional hopes, but either way Dwayne and his Dad will do whatever it takes to find the truth. I love all of the characters and the Morrow family that will make you laugh even at the expense of the other family members. But the love and support will warm your heart, while you hold your breath wondering what Dwayne was thinking
September 9, 2025
This is the latest (and best?) adventure with our favorite not-quite-a-private-eye Richard Dwayne Morrow.
Dwayne and his fiancèe Melanie are awakened in the middle of the night when his father Todd shows up unexpectedly. He seems disoriented and incoherent and it’s most concerning. Finally, Dwayne decides to bring his father back home; and it’s the start of our bumbling (but lovable) sleuth’s journey with his dad.
Dwayne and his family face threats and attempts on their lives, as they try to determine who’s behind them and why. Just as disturbing are Todd’s bizarre dreams and behavior, that could be merely premonitions or keys to the mystery.
We see Dwayne’s love for his family in everything he does. It’s especially comforting in his dealings with the self-confident and controlling Senator Gorham.
Miller’s characters are all so well-drawn, those both good and malevolent, even the sidekicks, with their quirky traits. It why we cheer for Dwayne and those in the Morrow sphere. And the twists keep us reading.
Highly recommended.
Dwayne and his fiancèe Melanie are awakened in the middle of the night when his father Todd shows up unexpectedly. He seems disoriented and incoherent and it’s most concerning. Finally, Dwayne decides to bring his father back home; and it’s the start of our bumbling (but lovable) sleuth’s journey with his dad.
Dwayne and his family face threats and attempts on their lives, as they try to determine who’s behind them and why. Just as disturbing are Todd’s bizarre dreams and behavior, that could be merely premonitions or keys to the mystery.
We see Dwayne’s love for his family in everything he does. It’s especially comforting in his dealings with the self-confident and controlling Senator Gorham.
Miller’s characters are all so well-drawn, those both good and malevolent, even the sidekicks, with their quirky traits. It why we cheer for Dwayne and those in the Morrow sphere. And the twists keep us reading.
Highly recommended.
November 23, 2025
my favorite storyline so far…
Book #8 in the series was everything I expected from Darin Miller and more. Surprising twists and turns kept me turning pages hour after hour. This may be my favorite book overall.
Dwayne continues to make me chuckle as he bumbles through his life, flying by the seat of his pants, and ends up with mostly positive results.
Book #8 in the series was everything I expected from Darin Miller and more. Surprising twists and turns kept me turning pages hour after hour. This may be my favorite book overall.
Dwayne continues to make me chuckle as he bumbles through his life, flying by the seat of his pants, and ends up with mostly positive results.
November 26, 2025
Well, I can’t say how many times my mouth dropped open with oh my goodness moments in this amazing book! There were so many surprise moments, heartfelt moments, funny moments, scary moments, and I was definitely loving every chapter from the first to the end! This book definitely deserves all five stars and more!!!
October 22, 2025
Another winner for Darin Miller! The Dwayne Morrow Mysteries just keep getting better and better! A road trip by Dwayne and his father is one exciting ride. The two are searching for answers explaining the mysterious death of Gina, Dwayne's sister. The book is fast-paced and suspenseful with surprising twists. The character of Dwayne has captured my heart, and I loved getting to know his father on a deeper level. Another edge of your seat thriller which engaged me from beginning to end. In my opinion, this is the best book in the series to date.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews