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FBI New Recruits #1

Deadly Charade

Not yet published
Expected 27 Oct 26
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Special Agent Kira Miller's new career at the FBI has started--in translations. It's not the opportunity she was hoping for to show off her skills, until she detects a lead in the paperwork. Now assigned an undercover role, she's in her element as she gathers intel on an art smuggling ring. She's daunted not by the mission but by her cover--posing as a married woman to the fake husband she met less than twenty-four hours ago.

Special Agent Bryce Lambert's assignment to charade as a newlywed couple with Kira has the two of them moving next door to the prime suspects, and a relationship is the last thing he wants, fake or real. With secret auctions, hidden treasures, and a legend of art thought to be lost forever, there's plenty to keep them busy--if only they can play the part their lives and careers depend upon while keeping their own hearts in check.

Romantic suspense novelists Lynette Eason and Kelly Underwood collaborate in this fast-paced thriller that weaves high-stakes danger with a hard-fought happily ever after.

308 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 6, 2026

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About the author

Lynette Eason

180 books4,193 followers
Lynette Eason is the NEW YORK TIMES best-selling, award-winning author of over seventy books with more than 3,000,000 copies sold.


She has won a plethora of awards including the Carol Award, the Selah, the Golden Scroll and been nominated for others like the prestigious Christy Award. Her novel, Her Stolen Past was made into a movie for the Lifetime Movie Network. Lynette teaches and speaks at writing conferences all over the country. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), Mystery Writers of America (MWA), International Thriller Writers (ITW), Advanced Writers and Speakers Association (AWSA) and Faith, Hope, and Love. She lives in upstate SC with her husband, Jack. They have two grown children and a terribly spoiled American Eskimo pup.

Lynette can be found online at www.lynetteeason.com and www.facebook.com/lynette.eason and @lynetteeason on Twitter.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
Profile Image for theliterateleprechaun .
2,900 reviews204 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
August 11, 2026
Deadly Charade is book one in the FBI New Recruits series by Lynette Eason and Kelly Underwood.

FBI Special Agent Kira Miller is assigned undercover with FBI Special Agent Bryce Lambert to get eyes on a couple suspected of involvement in an art theft ring.

I loved that this story was inspired by the real unsolved mystery of the Amber Room and enjoyed the additions the authors made to produce a pacey engaging romantic suspense novel.

The well-crafted characters are driven by their past and learn to override bitterness with faith. I enjoyed the reminder that (1) if God can create the Earth out of nothing, he can shape our lives using all the broken pieces and make us into something new and (2) that God meets us exactly where we are; there’s no need for earning his attention or pretending to be something we’re not.

With such an intense plot, I appreciated references such as ‘walking bacon’ and the ‘Goonies’ movie to make me smile.

I was cheering for Katrina and Brian from the start and hoped they’d get their HEA. I’m excited for book two and hope to catch up on Bryce and Kira again.

I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Profile Image for Chelsea.
236 reviews4 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
August 13, 2026
I just finished reading Deadly Charade by Lynette Eason and Kelly Underwood and thought it was a good story. It is a clean romantic suspense book about two FBI agents, Kira and Bryce, who have to pretend to be newlyweds to bust an art smuggling ring.

The undercover setup made for an entertaining slow burn with plenty of fake-dating tension. I liked how the story balances the high-stakes FBI investigation with the fun of them trying to act like a couple. It is a fast-paced thriller that keeps you interested, and I recommend giving it a look if you want a solid mystery.
Profile Image for Allyson Anthony.
1,417 reviews58 followers
August 23, 2026
Deadly Charade, book 1 in the FBI New Recruits series by Lynette Eason and Kelly Underwood, is a fast-paced mystery with twists at the right moments. Kira and Bryce, both FBI agents, are thrown together to investigate an art smuggling ring, but who can they trust? If you enjoy a fake marriage as newlyweds, a well-crafted romantic suspense story with heart-pounding action, a mystery, and faith, Deadly Charade will keep you guessing until the end.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Melmo2610.
3,870 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
October 12, 2026
A fabulous start to what promises to be a really fun series. I really enjoyed the mystery surrounding an art smuggling ring and everything that that mystery ended up encompassing. This book was full of surprises and once the mystery started coming together, it got REALLY exciting. The faith thread was really well done and another part of the story that I really liked. I am excited for the rest of this series!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are mine.
Profile Image for Alyssa Amey Madjeski.
431 reviews31 followers
October 5, 2026
Ever since I first heard that Lynette Eason and Kelly Underwood were starting a new collab series together I couldn’t wait to get my hands on it! So many thanks to Great Reads Book Promo for the chance to read this exciting story!

I was drawn into this story immediately with rookie FBI agent Kira on a simple, off-the-books art gallery reconnaissance that goes sideways, pulling her into Bryce’s ongoing case into the underbelly of the art world. I loved the historical ties to real missing WWII art, loved how I felt like I slipped into a beloved episode of White Collar, and loved every second of the romantic tension and chemistry between our undercover married couple! The stakes are high, the suspense is off the charts, and whew(!) these two had me burning through pages to find out what would happen next.

I especially loved the faith woven into this story. Both Kira and Bryce have truly awful experiences in their childhoods. Bryce’s brought him to Jesus while Kira’s never did. But his gentle influence and willingness to open up and be honest with her, brings her to a place she can accept that God can make something from nothing after all, and He’s been there for her all along.

I will probably add a few more thoughts as I keep thinking about this one! What an adventure. Romantic suspense fans are not going to want to miss this series! And I’m already so excited for the stories to come about Violet and Everly.

I received a gifted copy of this book from the publisher and Great Reads Book Promo. I was not required to leave a positive review. My opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Arc by Bethy.
252 reviews17 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
October 2, 2026
Deadly Charade is book 1 in the FBI New Recruits series by Lynette Eason and Kelly Underwood and it's a fast paced thriller/mystery romance that I couldn't put down!!! I loved Kira and Bryce together and that they faked being married to break up an art smuggling ring and you just knew what was going to happen! The twists kept coming and there was enough surprises to keep me guessing and turning the pages! I loved the underlining faith theme throughout gently. This is a strong start to the series and I would highly recommend! I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
370 reviews15 followers
Read
August 20, 2026
Deadly Charade is a fast‑moving mystery. The twists come at just the right moments, and feels a bit like the movie National Treasure. The heroines friendships add to the plot. I liked seeing how those relationships are setting up the characters for future books in the series. I will be following each friend’s story as the series continues. This was the first book in a new series - FBI new recruits.

The ending is satisfying and wraps everything up well. It brings together the mystery and the character moments in a way that leaves you feeling good about where the story lands.

I receive complimentary books from various sources, including NetGalley, authors, and others. I am not required to write a positive review, and I have not received any compensation for my thoughts.
Profile Image for Krystal Kraft.
486 reviews8 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
October 12, 2026
Oh my word!! Give me an FBI book and I’m not going to be able to pick up anything else until I am done! This one was so well written and I loved the characters SO much. It was packed full of suspense and little plot twists!! I can say honestly I didn’t get bored once while reading Deadly Charade! It just kept moving along and did a great job of sucking me in until the very end, when of course I wasn’t ready for it to be over! Definitely recommend this book. These authors and their writing style…super addictive! They know how to write a great plot and how to rock that character development! Grab yourself a copy of this if the genre is in your line up!
1,099 reviews25 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
September 22, 2026
Deadly Charade has a fast-paced, engaging plot sure to keep you wanting to read "just one more chapter" until you get to the end! This collaboration between authors Eason and Underwood is a fantastic start to the FBI New Recruits series. There are complex, well-developed characters. I really liked Special Agents Kira Miller and Bryce Lambert. Their "Where did you meet story?" is epic, but no spoilers here. They do get an HEA. The plot has those numerous twists and turns that we suspense readers love. These authors are absolute experts at them. I am looking forward to the next book in the series. I highly recommend Deadly Charade to suspense readers, especially those that enjoy faith in their stories.
I received a complimentary copy through NetGalley and am sharing my opinion of this very well-written and exciting story.
799 reviews14 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
September 14, 2026
Lynette Eason and Kelly Underwood are the new dynamic duo when it comes to romantic suspense. Deadly Charade is everything I love in this genre.

There’s a lot to unpack between all the action and forward momentum in this book. You barely take a breath and something else is coming your way. I love how the authors get right down to business when it comes to grabbing and keeping my attention.

Bryce and Kira have to work undercover as a married couple. What could possibly go wrong? Besides maintaining their cover, they are embroiled in bringing down a smuggling ring while also fighting, or not, their growing attraction for each other. The way they interact together is realistic and fits well into the story.

Like any good suspense there are harrowing moments, times I held my breath and just had to read one more page, and then one more. It’s that good.

I received a copy courtesy of Revell though Interviews and Reviews via NetGalley. This is my honest opinion of the book.
Profile Image for Amy.
599 reviews10 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
September 28, 2026
Wow! Deadly Charade by Lynette Eason and Kelly Underwood is full of action and intrigue! The juxtaposition of recovering missing art while glamorously going undercover is fascinating.

I'm a huge fan of the 'recovering stolen Nazi art' stories, and Deadly Charade is no exception. While this story is more complex than that, those other layers add excitement and emotion that makes it even more fun to read. This mystery is definitely a favorite element!

The character clash was fun, too, though. A Russian orphan-turned-agent and neglected child-turned-agent-art-expert has much potential for pop and sizzle, and Eason makes the most of it.

What I liked best, however, were the twists at the end. While I did guess a few of them, I was surprised by others, and that always makes for a great story.

So if real historic stories make you go 'what-if,' Deadly Charade is the book for you.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Lindsey (Books for Christian Girls).
2,377 reviews5,497 followers
Read
October 4, 2026
3-ish stars, personally ⭐️ Christian Fiction - Romantic Suspense

About this book:

“Special Agent Kira Miller's new career at the FBI has started--in translations. It's not the opportunity she was hoping for to show off her skills, until she detects a lead in the paperwork. Now assigned an undercover role, she's in her element as she gathers intel on an art smuggling ring. She's daunted not by the mission but by her cover--posing as a married woman to the fake husband she met less than twenty-four hours ago.
Special Agent Bryce Lambert's assignment to charade as a newlywed couple with Kira has the two of them moving next door to the prime suspects, and a relationship is the last thing he wants, fake or real. With secret auctions, hidden treasures, and a legend of art thought to be lost forever, there's plenty to keep them busy--if only they can play the part their lives and careers depend upon while keeping their own hearts in check.”



Series: Book #1 in the “FBI New Recruits” series.


Spiritual Content- Prayers & Thanking God; Talks about God, Jesus, faith, trusting Him, showing grace, & letting go of bitterness; ‘H’s are not capital when referring to God; While Kira grew up going to church with her adoptive parents, she doesn’t go anymore and thinks God has been “silent” when she needed Him; She starts to pray as the book continues for God to help her if He is real; Bryce has a faith and share about God with Kira; *Spoilers* ; Mentions of God, Jesus, His love, grace, forgiveness, & faiths; Mentions of prayers, praying, thanking God, & blessings over food; Mentions of churches, church going, & a sermon; A few mentions of Christians; A couple mentions of miracles; A mention of being blessed;
*Note: Mentions of luck & being lucky; A mention of a place feeling like a haunted house; A mention of ghost stories.


Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘stinking’, two ‘dumb’s, and two ‘stupid’s; A mention of a curse (said, not written); Eye rolling & Sarcasm; Eavesdropping; Fighting, Car crashes (including air bags deploying and passing out), Being ran off the road, Being trapped in a car after an accident, Being attacked and hit, Being kicked, Being grabbed and abducted, Being stuffed in a trunk, Being drugged, Being held at gunpoint (multiple times), Being shot at and Being shot, Gunfire, a flash-bang, Pain, Injuries, Blood/Bleeding, Being knocked unconscious, & Passing out (semi-detailed); A perilous situation involving a dilapidated bridge over a large abyss (semi-detailed); Seeing deaths/murders happen & Finding and seeing other murdered bodies (multiple; up to semi-detailed); Seeing people shot (up to semi-detailed); Kira and Bryce are given cocktails at a dinner party (Kira takes a sip to confirm what it is, but Bryce avoids alcohol due to having an alcoholic family member and does not drink it; Side characters also drink at the dinner and have many drinks); All about & many mentions of stolen art, smuggling rings, illegal auctions, stealing, thieves, criminals, & crimes; Many mentions of murders, murderers, bodies, & blood/bleeding (up to semi-detailed); Many mentions of wars (World War II & Civil War), Nazis, & possible future wars; Mentions of deaths (a car accident, heart attack) & grief; Mentions of weapons, being held at gunpoint, & gunfire; Mentions of car accidents; Mentions of terrorists, mafias, mobsters, & assassins; Mentions of kidnappings/abductions (including a child); Mentions of blackmail & threats (including threatening death/murder); Mentions of money laundering; Mentions of jail & arrests; Mentions of lies, lying, & liars; Mentions of gossip & rumors; Mentions of divorces; Mentions of alcohol, drinking, bars, drunks, & an alcoholic; Mentions of an addiction to painkillers, being high often, & rehab; Mentions of tattoos; A few mentions of fires; A few mentions of break-ins & burglars; A few mentions of drug dealers & smuggling drugs; A few mentions of gambling & an addiction to it; A few mentions of cigars & cigarettes; A couple mentions of eavesdropping; A mention of autopsies; A mention of possible poison; A mention of parents fighting;
*Note: Kira lived in a Russian orphanage for some of her childhood until she was adopted by an American family (because of this, she can “adapt to any situation” and make herself appear how others want, but feels like that anyone in her life could leave her if things gets tough; She knows this is not true and her parents have loved her unconditionally, but still struggles with this thought as she remembers overhearing as a child in the orphanage that no one would want her; After being adopted, Kira struggled with the notion that she had to be just how her adoptive parents wanted or she would be returned to Russia even though they never set any expectations or implied this would happen); Bryce comes from a broken home and was never good enough for his deadbeat father and has his father’s voice in his head telling him he won’t amount to anything; *Spoilers* ; Kira comments to her friends about living in the “age of equality” but some men at Quantico still being livid to be outperformed by a girl; Mentions of painters (Cézanne, Rembrandt, Veláquez, Caravaggio, van Gogh, & Degas); Mentions of brand names & items (Harley-Davidson, Barbie, iPhone, iPad, AirTag, Glock, Spanx, Band-Aid, Clue, & Maglite); Mentions of car brands; A few mentions of movies & a TV show (Indiana Jones, The Goonies, & Downton Abbey); A couple mentions of Google; A couple mentions of yoga; A mention of Hallmark movies; A mention of a vampire; A mention of a panic attack; A mention of depression.


Sexual Content- A fingers-to-lips touch, a hand kiss, two cheek kisses, a head kiss, an almost kiss (semi-detailed), a semi-detailed kiss, and a border-line semi-detailed // detailed kiss; Remembering kisses & almost kisses (up to semi-detailed); Staring at lips; Touches, Hand holding, Tingles/Sparks, Warmth, Nearness, & Smelling (up to semi-detailed); Wanting to touch & embrace (up to semi-detailed); Blushes & Winks; Noticing (up to semi-detailed); a ‘sexy’, a ‘smoking hot’, and four forms of ‘hunk’; A married woman tries to flirt with Bryce (while he is undercover as a married man; *Spoiler* ); Mentions of kisses, kissing, making out, & almost kisses; Mentions of dates, dating, boyfriends/girlfriends, exes, & cheating; Mentions of flirting & a married woman making moves on a married man; A couple mentions of crushes; A mention of making sure a man keeps his hands to himself (around his beautiful work partner); Love, falling in love, & the emotions;
*Note: Bryce got divorced after a short marriage and is not interested in another relationship (she left him and filed for the divorce); A mention of a woman’s low-cut dress.

-Kira Miller, age 33
-Bryce Lambert
P.O.V. switches between them
320 pages

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- One Star (and a half)
Older High School Teens- Two Stars
My personal Rating- Three Stars

{Add up to a full star for Older Teens interested in the FBI, criminal justice, and/or suspense books.}

After hearing this book would be about two FBI agents posing as a married couple, I was instantly reminded of my favorite episode from ‘Sue Thomas: FB Eye’ where Sue and Jack have to pose as a married couple and live next to a couple with potential terrorists ties. I knew this book would be different, though, so I tried not to hype it up in my mind to give it a fair chance. I did really liked the plot and different elements like the art smuggling, art museum scenes, and the pretend/fake marriage, but I wasn’t a fan of our main characters or how they were written. Characters can make or break a book for me, so this affected my overall enjoyment of this story.

Bryce was a little too interested in Kira right off the bat which felt a little strange because he would notice how attractive she was, but then quickly think how he had too much baggage for a relationship. This happened a few times in just the beginning chapter. There were also a few times where Kira didn’t want to talk about her past, but then would drop a very vague comment that would obviously catch Bryce or someone else’s interest so they would ask and she would explain. A lot of their dialogue felt stiff and awkward because of it. And perhaps that’s because they’ve just met each other, but it distracted me while reading because it felt unnatural.

The ending was very Indiana Jones-esce—which, funny enough right after I thought that, a character also thought “what in the Indiana Jones [is this]?” and made me laugh when the scene was supposed to be intense. It felt a little far-fetched for the book. I have a few questions about some loose threads at the ending as well. Overall, this wasn’t a new favorite romantic suspense book, but I am interested in continuing the series.



Link to review:



*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Revell) for this honest review.
Profile Image for Randi Sampson.
2,004 reviews112 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
October 1, 2026
Lynette Eason is one of those names that when I see it, I know I'm in for a story that will keep me at the edge of my seat. While I hadn't had a chance to read any of Kelly Underwood's books prior to this one, I've had a few on my TBR for quite some time, so I was excited about this collaboration. And it did not disappoint. Kira and Bryce drew me into their story pretty quickly as they go undercover as a married couple to uncover an art smuggling ring. This one had all the forced proximity and tension that I always love with the fake dating trope (one of my favorites!) PLUS all the added tension and sense of danger of a suspense... and I was absolutely here for it all! It was fast paced and kept me guessing right through to the end, just as a good suspense read should... with messages of faith that only made me enjoy the story that much more. I loved discovering that this was loosely based on real events (the Amber Room), which again just made the mystery element all the more interesting to me! This was a great start to a new series and one that has me excited to see what will happen next. If you enjoy Christian romantic suspense, this is one to add to your TBR.

**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Dana.
328 reviews
October 2, 2026
Deadly Charade, book 1 in the FBI New Recruits series by Lynette Eason and Kelly Underwood. It’s a fast-paced mystery where, main characters, Kira and Bryce are working together to investigate an art smuggling ring when Kira ends up at the wrong place at the wrong time. I truly enjoyed the fake marriage trope in this romantic suspense. Deadly Charade had it all. There were so many players in this art smuggling world and other nefarious schemes, I was surprised at who was who. I was honestly kind of glad for one character being on the right side of the law that I was previously worried wasnt. I really liked Kira and Bryce, depsite all the hard things they went through as younger people, they really came out good and not too jaded. I found I really enjoyed Kelly & Lynette writing together, you couldn't tell who was who on the writing because they blended so well together. Another great one by Lynette Eason and Kelly Underwood, they worked well together.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Laura Bowman.
326 reviews10 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
September 7, 2026
Deadly Charade by Lynette Eason and Kelly Underwood is well worth reading. I love how Lynette Eason mentors and helps up and coming authors. I’ve read other books by Kelly and Lynette so I knew I wouldn’t be disappointed.

FBI Rookie Kira Miller speaks fluent Russian working as a translator overhears what she believes is a possible theft. FBI Special Agent Bryce Lambert works in art crime and is investigating an art smuggling ring. They are teamed up to go undercover to investigate and hopefully retrieve any stolen art.

The plot is well written, the characters are believable and well thought out. Just the right amount of suspense without too much action.

I received this book from the publisher and was not required to leave a review. The opinion is my own.
Profile Image for Amanda  H.
862 reviews58 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
September 29, 2026
A high pace, suspenseful read that had plenty of twist and turns. I live the art angle and the slight Indiana Jones aspect of a race to find lost treasure. I enjoyed getting to know the characters. Kira’s past has put her in a unique position to translate for the FBI, where she follows a hunch when she picks up chatter about a recently found rabbit statue. When that hunch leads to working undercover with Bryce, the stakes are raised. I loved the pacing of this story, and that it was full of action while still being interesting and having plenty of character development. This story is a delightful start to a new series.
I received a copy from the authors and Great Reads book promotion. This is my honest review.!
34 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
September 6, 2026
Deadly Charade is a fast‑paced, edge‑of‑your‑seat thriller that blends the intrigue of the art world with the intensity of FBI action. From the first chapter to the last, Lynette Eason and Kelly Underwood deliver nonstop suspense and vivid storytelling. I loved how the art theme wasn’t just background — it was essential to the mystery itself, adding depth and originality. Kira and Bryce are compelling, courageous, and easy to root for. This book kept me hooked, and I can’t wait to dive into the rest of the series!
126 reviews5 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
August 30, 2026
Another great read. Special Agent Kira Miller works for the FBI but not in the field yet. She's a translator with a Russian emphasis because of her past. She uncovers a plot to steal priceless artifacts from a gallery and has to stop the theft. Special Agent Bryce Lambert's specialty is art forgery and theft. Kira and Bryce have to go undercover to stop this but neither are sure about the circumstances. Bryce is a by the book agent and Kira takes risks. Moving into a condo beside a known Russian attorney who doesn't always follow the law is interesting. Things start happening quickly with a secret auction which escalates from there. Enter Ivan who is also undercover but Russian and things really get hot. Unraveling the puzzle takes time but time isn't on their side. Kira being kidnapped by the unknown assailant causes things to move very quickly. This is a really well written story that you won't know till the end who is responsible and you will be very surprised. I was given an advance copy by the author, but these are my own thoughts and words.
5 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
August 31, 2026
I love the collaboration of Lynette Eason and Kelly Underwood and get excited when they have a new book releasing. Deadly Charade is book 1 in a new series (FBI New Recruits) and it did not disappoint. It is action and suspense packed with a solid plot, just the right amount of romance, and great character development. By the end of the first couple chapters, I was hooked and could easily relate to the dynamic of the characters. I thought that Kira and Bryce’s POVs were realistic and kept me engaged throughout the entire story. The storyline flowed smoothly and was easy to follow along on their journey. If you like to read suspense where you can’t figure out the villain until revealed, this is a MUST read.
Profile Image for Laura.
2,033 reviews26 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
October 14, 2026
Title: Deadly Charade
Author: Lynette Eason and Kelly Underwood
Narrated by: Cynthia Farrell
Publisher: Recorded Books
Length: Approximately 10 hours and 33 minutes
Source: Thank you to @lynetteeason, @bestinsuspense, @revellfiction, and @greatreadsbookpromo for the gift copy of the physical copy of Deadly Charade. Audiobook purchased from Audible.

What is your favorite story involving a treasure hunt?

FBI Special Agents Kira Miller and Bryce Lambers are going undercover as a newlywed couple to break into a suspected Russian crime ring. As Kira finds her feelings growing for Bryce, the mystery and adventure deepens. Will they crack the crime ring while also finding the hidden treasure?

My thoughts on this book:
• I liked how Bryce’s late grandpa and his journals figured into the mystery. His grandpa was a great man who helped to raise him, and he also was obsessed with finding hidden treasure.
• There was great chemistry between the leads, Kira and Bryce. I enjoyed reading their developing relationship and love for each other.
• The audiobook was interesting, and I enjoyed the accents that the narrator used.
• I enjoyed the suspense and action in the story. The story kept me engaged and guessing until the end. Romantic suspense is one of my favorite genres and this was a great example of it.
• There were great faith elements in the story as Kira finds her way back to God.
• Bryce was neglected as a child and Kria was an orphan. They both have trust issues and must work through them.
• I love a good treasure hunt story. I don’t want to go into detail and wreck the plot, but I did greatly enjoy the treasure hunt in this book.
• This is the first book in the FBI New Recruits series.
• The mystery was inspired by the real-life mystery of the Amber room which I had not heard of before. Once I heard of it in this book, I did some online sleuthing, and I am intrigued.
• The story started slowly, but it was really intense through the end.
• The genres included: romantic suspense, fake marriage, action, mystery, contemporary, treasure hunt, inspirational, and Christian.

Overall, Deadly Charade by Lynette Eason and Kelly Underwood as an entertaining romantic suspense story with a treasure hunt and crime ring. I enjoyed it!

This review was first posted on my blog at: https://lauragerold.blogspot.com/2026...
Profile Image for Vickie.
2,435 reviews81 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
October 5, 2026
Deadly Charade is a book that is hard to put down because the interactions between the characters and the intriguing plot captivated me from the beginning. Kira is a new FBI agent, eager to get out into the field, but she wasn’t prepared for her assignment with Agent Bryce. Together, the two of them are supposed to find an art smuggling ring and rescue some priceless treasures from pre-WWII Russia. In their undercover disguises as a married couple, Kira and Bryce complement the different talents they two have and they also feel that attraction that opposites feel when in forced proximity. The danger is real but the threats are from an unknown source, so Kira and Bryce have to always be aware of their surroundings, including all of the people around them. The characters are realistically portrayed with a few flaws, especially when they are thrown into high-tension situations. The pace is propulsive, so the book kept me reading long past my bedtime as “one more chapter” became many more. I really wanted to know what would happen next, where the treasure was (if there really was one), and how Kira and Bryce would be able to work out a relationship since they are both FBI agents. The tight plot crackles with tension and head-spinning twists that kept me guessing. This is an expertly plotted page turner with a dramatic climax and some brutally terrifying scenes. I loved the excitement of the danger but was thrilled by the budding romance. Five plus stars for a book that held me enthralled and cleverly kept me turning pages!
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for AlwaysByTheBooks.
68 reviews9 followers
October 10, 2026
I am so excited to be on the launch team for Deadly Charade through Great Reads Book Promo.

About the Book:

The start of Kira Miller’s career as an FBI Special Agent gets off to a bumpy start. After, the discovery of an art smuggling ring sends her into an undercover role, Kira must play the part of a married woman . . . To the agent she met hours earlier.

Bryce Lambert has benched the idea of getting married after his past left him heartbroken. But when he gets to play the undercover role of Kira Miller’s fake husband, he quickly realizes his heart may be in jeopardy after all.

Can Bryce and Kira keep their cover to get to the bottom of the art smuggling ring, or will this fake marriage turn out to be more than a charade?

My Thoughts:

You guys, I loved this book! Lynette and Kelly have formed a seamless voice and I found myself flipping pages into the night.

I was hooked from the premise of this book. Undercover agents, forced proximity, fake marriage, and an art ring? Yes, please!😍

The suspense in this book was incredible. I was gasping and dying to know what was going to happen. And, just when I thought I had it figured out, I was shocked!

I adored Bryce and Kira’s dynamic. This wasn’t a romance-heavy book, which I loved, but their connection was real and genuine. I appreciated how they handled their feelings like adults and stepped back to make sure what they felt was real and not just a result of their cover.

And that ending?! I couldn’t get enough. This was one of the best romantic suspense books I’ve read in a while and I highly recommend it!

I received a complimentary copy of the book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Elizabeth.
48 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
October 17, 2026
What a wild ride! This book has it all - crime rings, treasure hunting, mafia, undercover agents and romance!

Thank you to @lynetteeason, @bestinsuspense, @revellfiction, and @greatreadsbookpromo and @netgalley for the advance copy of this book!

Right from the beginning we are thrown into a high action plot and our two main characters, FBI agents, Kira and Bryce must move in together as a “married” couple. The Russians have a secret art ring and Kira and Bryce must track down who is in charge and the missing art. I wasn’t expecting the Indians Jones vibes throughout this book and literally every chapter ended on a cliff hanger. There are also themes of redemption and faith throughout the book.

I highly recommend this book and I will be reading the next in the series coming out next Oct 2027!
Profile Image for Elizabeth.
265 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
October 8, 2026
Plot twists, fiction meshed with a non fiction historical mystery, two main characters who are total opposites and yet have some commonality from their pasts make for a fantastic and enthralling read.
Due to my busy schedule, I set aside time to read before bed. I stayed up way to late reading this collaboration because I couldn't find a good stopping point. It's definitely a 5 star read.
I like that this is faith forward without being too much. The reminder that we don't have to earn Father's love or be good enough for Him to love was/is needed.
I'm looking forward to book two in this new FBI New Recruit series.
Profile Image for Debbie.
326 reviews15 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
September 24, 2026
If you like suspense, dangerous situations, and enough questions to keep you guessing the entire time, this book is for you! Special Agents Kira Miller and Bryce Lambert come at their jobs in opposite ways. Kira likes to take risks while Bryce is a "by the book" agent. They are thrown together in an undercover operation pretending to be a married couple and things spiral from there. Who is their ally and who is their enemy?? It becomes hard to tell as danger gets closer to them. Can you figure out the culprit? You will have to read this to the end and find out. I received an advance copy from NetGalley and the authors but all opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Danielle Turko.
425 reviews5 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
September 29, 2026
When Kira finds her Fiancee cheating on her, it spurs her to accelerate her plans to join the FBI. What she didn't count on was getting injured in Quantico right at the end of training and having to ride a desk in the translating department. Her childhood spent in Russia waiting to be adopted gives her the skills needed to translate, but she is beginning to go a little stir crazy at the desk. When she translates some intel about a Russian Rabbit statue, she passes along the message but nobody seems to take much notice of it so she goes to the museum to see the rabbit for herself. When she's there she stumbles on a murder, and is paired with by the books agent in art crimes Bryce. The two of them are tasked with going undercover as a married couple and live next to a couple linked to the blackmarket art auctions that have been happening. While trying to wrangle an invitation to the auction from their neighbours, Kira and Bryce find themselves beginning to forget that they are on a mission, and not actually married. With their lives on the line, they need to find what the significance of the rabbit statue is while keeping everyone safe at the same time.
This was a well written book I didn't really want to put down. Their are twists and turns, secret societies, espionage, and a will-they-won't-they trope woven through the story. Probably the only thing I would change is the number of characters you meet. There are several names bouncing around by the end that if I hadn't read it in a couple of days like I did I wouldn't have remembered who everybody was.
Profile Image for Rosalyn.
1,338 reviews35 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
October 8, 2026
I loved this first book of a new series!
The writing duo of Eason and Underwood is simply outstanding.
These characters were great, and the story was fun, while also being action packed and suspenseful.
I loved the treasure seeking, the undercover roles, and more.
There is so much going on in these pages. I always love a good treasure hunt. Throw in the possibility of missing heirlooms dating back to WWII days, and I'm hooked!
And of course, there's the mystery and suspense, and all the action that goes with it.
Someone else is also determined to find this treasure, and before Kira and Bryce. And they're willing to do whatever it takes - including kill.
Highly recommend for a lover of suspense novels.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
Profile Image for Jennie Webb.
708 reviews18 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
September 21, 2026
This story has great characters! The mystery is also a good one! I loved reading a little more about the Amber Room treasure from WWII too. The story is fast-paced, yet easy to follow. It has action and romance. Great beginning to a series!
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the advance e-copy of this book. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Profile Image for hoadbear.
178 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
September 15, 2026
As Eason and Underwood team up in the pages of Deadly Charade readers are not disappointed in the outcome.
Kira and Bryce go undercover and the art world will never be the same.
Great characters, teamwork both between the author and the characters. I like how the FBI New Recruits partner together personally and on the case. There's lots of intensity and danger that fills these pages. They definitely kept me guessing throughout the story.
The connections were different than I've encountered in other stories. Which made me question whether I was bringing an expectation or bias to the storyline. Ultimately I decided relationships are messy and don't all look the same whether real life or fiction.
Thank you to the authors, Revell, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and enjoy this new book. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Brenda.
298 reviews8 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
September 17, 2026
Very good read. Highly recommend. Enjoyed the characters and story line.

I received an advance ebook and I am voluntarily leaving my review.
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