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Family is everything...unless they want you dead.

Sweet little Emma Jennings is certain someone is robbing her vast estate, and she wants Kylie Hatfield on the case. Sure, an embezzlement case might be boring—boring and Kylie don’t mix—but Kylie feels for the octogenarian and pledges to right the wrong. She’s certain that she can. She’s just been promoted to Assistant PI of Starr Investigations, after all.

When embezzlement turns to murder, Kylie is once again tossed into a situation she isn’t prepared for, and her personal life isn’t much better. Sexy Linc Coulter, her Newfoundland’s trainer and her friend with benefits, is facing demons of his own.

As her search for answers to Emma Jennings’s case grows more dangerous, Kylie is beginning to suspect that she might indeed be a magnet for trouble—and killers. Even worse, she also suspects that she might be Linc Coulter’s greatest downfall.

333 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 21, 2019

2629 people are currently reading
329 people want to read

About the author

Mary Stone

218 books2,135 followers
To download my FREE BOOK, click here: https://authormarystone.com/free-book...

Nestled in the tranquil Blue Ridge Mountains of East Tennessee, Mary Stone has transformed her peaceful home, once bustling with her sons, into a creative haven. As her family grew, so did her writing career, evolving from childhood fears to a deep understanding of real-life villains. Her stories, centered around strong, unconventional heroines, weave themes of courage and intrigue.

Mary's journey from a solitary writer to establishing her own publishing house marks a significant evolution, showcasing her commitment to the literary world. Through her writing and publishing endeavors, she continues to captivate and inspire, honoring her lifelong fascination with the mysterious and the courageous.

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5 stars
1,274 (62%)
4 stars
571 (28%)
3 stars
161 (7%)
2 stars
17 (<1%)
1 star
7 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
Profile Image for L Cherry.
707 reviews19 followers
May 12, 2020
Loved this!

This was a good little mystery. There was nothing to horrible or to deep to pull you into a negative storm of emotions, but the mystery is well written and exciting. Kylie is one of my favorite characters. I am truly enjoying this series.
Profile Image for Larissa  Washington.
161 reviews1 follower
November 30, 2020
This is another easy read that does not take long to pick up the pace. Kylie Hatfield is 'still' a likable, funny, overreactive character who speaks her mind. Her relationship with her boss, Greg, is akin to a father-daughter relationship. Yeah...about the father-daughter thing. The issue(s) concerning her father is explored a bit further, and based on the end of this book, I anticipate that the next book will be dedicated to him.

Many elements from the first book permeated the second. Essentially what happened to Kylie in the first book is a factor in the second, so all of that is not lost. Additionally, Linc is still in the picture--a good thing. Linc's story takes precedence in book 2. So, if you are aware of PTSD since Linc is a veteran, then prepare to enter into his mind...his nightmares. Another aspect is Linc's relationship with his family---mother, father, brothers. It is likely that you will not be surprised by his perception.

Three stars? Kylie becomes the stalked and sought after (again). That is to be expected. I prefer that the antagonist is not the same gender and that Mr. 'dreamy' Linc Coulter is not available to save his damsel in distress...again. There are other characters, such as Jacob. He's in the field of law enforcement. What about Greg? He's concerned about Kylie, especially since the incident in the first book. He's also the owner and head PI at Starr Investigation. I just want to see more diversity with the 'killer'.

Other than the aforementioned, I still plan to read book #3.
Profile Image for ReadaBook.
444 reviews3 followers
November 9, 2020
Kylie is assigned an actual job that takes her out of the office and lets her be an investigator. When someone dies, she gets more involved. The battle between Kylie and Lincoln regarding her being in danger is kind of tedious. But the story flows pretty quickly, and Vader continues to develop as a very good, if somewhat goofy, sidekick dog.
The development of Linc’s PTSD history is a good sidebar to Kylie’s PI skills development.
The romance is kind of so-so; yes, they like each other, but the description and development of that issue is kind of, well, boring. I don’t know why this is the case. It just doesn’t have much depth so far., so I find it hard to remain interested in it. Perhaps in future books in this series it will become more interesting.
Profile Image for Joan mooney.
370 reviews4 followers
September 10, 2020
Sorry, I didn’t like this book

I really dislike giving bad reviews, but I didn’t like this book at all. It had a good idea behind it, but all the sex distracted from what could have been a good story. Kylie is cute. A little airhead with potential. Lincoln gets shortchanged all through the story. If I had wanted to read a soft porno I guess I would have liked it more. But instead of being a thriller or a love story it fell short on all levels.
416 reviews4 followers
December 13, 2023
Deadly Lies(Kylie Hatfield Amateur Sleuth Mystery Series Book 2)

I truly loved this book, I am glad that Linc is finally going to get for his PTSD. I am happy that Kylie survived the car accident. I am sad that Emma lost her grandson. Now Kylie has just found her biological father and it sounds like more trouble. I hope Kylie moves in with Linc, she needs him to keep her safe.
Profile Image for P J Van Benthusen.
465 reviews1 follower
March 25, 2020
I love this crazy ditzy girl!

Talk about a great pairing! These two are just meant to be. And what a plot! This is such a good read and these two characters are so genuinely likeable. Good plot, great mystery and wonderful characters. I'm on a binge and can't wait for the next one. Please tell me she marries Linc!
Profile Image for Meghan.
3,375 reviews7 followers
March 29, 2020
Family

Family shows up quite a bit in this story and in a variety of personalities. The first meeting of Lincs family didn’t go great, but it was entertaining. The case was intriguing and full of interesting turns and connections. The discussion of PTSD was educational and impactful. I look forward to the next story, especially after this books ending!
2 reviews
October 15, 2020
Great ride!

Loved that Kylie was spirited, going towards her goals...full steam ....not needing a man to lead her...but not to proud to accept help when needed.....loved link and Kylie’s relationship..two people hurt by ty past...but not letting it define them...can’t wait for the next books
Profile Image for Tamara.
1,152 reviews4 followers
November 13, 2020
Witty and Danger

The things Kylie Hatfield gets her self into is crazy and they way she is always a glass half full except for her relationship with Lincoln Coulter is fun and sad. Maybe if she could figure out why her dad deserted her and her mom she could have a forever with Linc. Love the series so far looking forward to the next book.
30 reviews
August 12, 2021
Fun characters and a plot that works. I see this series as a lighr-hearted, easy, and entertaining read. I plan to continue with the series, and recommend it to anyone who likes a good romance, but one that isn't perfect.

Fun characters and a plot that works. I see this series as a lighr-hearted, easy, and entertaining read I am enjoying. I plan to continue with the series.
271 reviews2 followers
July 7, 2020
Stolen Money

Another Mary Stone mystery. This is about Kylie taking on a job for an elderly woman, who had money problems. As usual Julie's life is in danger. Read how she solved the mystery.
59 reviews
September 5, 2020
Really Good Book

This is the second book that I have read in this series and I have really enjoyed them. I have downloaded the next one and look forward to reading it. Great story, enjoyable characters. Time well spent.
347 reviews
September 21, 2020
Murder

As usual Mary Stone has out done herself. She is a powerful writer and always keeps you on the edge. Just when you think you have figured it out she brings in a ringer. Read them all.
537 reviews4 followers
October 7, 2020
Interesting

Pretty good story but seemed to be a little like “Murder She Wrote.” The action was there but a bit washed out. Got a couple more Mary Stone books to try and see if she makes it to my favorite list. Thanks for the story look forward to the next tale.
9 reviews
December 5, 2020
Deadly Lies

I really enjoy this series. I love the silly dog. The strong silent hero and the adorable pi. Can't wait to read the next book in the series. There is just enough mystery to keep me glued to the book until the end.
Profile Image for Susan.
2,455 reviews13 followers
December 31, 2020
Great!

This book has everything. It has a great story line with several threads woven through it. It has an entertaining mystery and wonderful, warm, fun characters. And dogs. It is totally enjoyable.
1 review
January 19, 2021
Love the series and looking forward to the next one! Love The author and have read many of her books! Looking forward to the rest of the series!

Love the series and the author! I have enjoyed several of her series and look forward to enjoy the rest of her library!
177 reviews
January 28, 2021
Want to read the next

I loved book two. I enjoy the writing that is suspenseful, educates you about serious conditions we all may face, yet has me laugh and giggle so often. Well worth reading this series.
51 reviews1 follower
March 31, 2021
Great Book!

These two authors weave intrigue, dogs, Infatuation and a little humor into another good book. I am already downloading the next sequel to my Kindle. Can't wait to begin another.
Profile Image for Ollie.
666 reviews5 followers
June 15, 2021
This book keeps you reading.

This book has all the elements that makes you keep turning the pages. There is mystery, romance, and family dynamics that are related to those of our time.
Profile Image for Mary Mitchell.
1,003 reviews8 followers
February 2, 2024
Great

This second book in the series was even better than the first one. The characters were more developed and I enjoyed all of them. This book made me very excited to read more in the series.
169 reviews
March 9, 2020
Fun read

Where Kylie goes drama follows. She's a loose cannon, and a force to reckon with. Light hearted mystery, suspense love story.
Profile Image for Richard Myers.
509 reviews11 followers
April 6, 2020
Great book

Kylie needs Linc to rein her in and keep her safe. Kylie’s Newfoundland is now beginning to retain the training techniques that Linc has taught him.
Profile Image for Chanda Shae Curry.
274 reviews
June 2, 2020
Smh

Only Kylie can get in this kinda mess!! But with Vader and Linc she’ll find her way out!! Another great read
4,417 reviews43 followers
August 10, 2020
An interesting story with more sex than mystery. I did like the story and recommend the book.

497 reviews
August 22, 2020
Excellent

I really enjoyed this book. Love the series. Kylie is an extraordinary person. There’s a lot of suspense and action with a little romance. Perfect reading.
Profile Image for Iron.
11 reviews
September 20, 2020
Much slower than the first book in the series. Far too much focus on the relationship than investigative story line.
Profile Image for Kath.
1,066 reviews28 followers
October 16, 2020
Love these books. If you like solider mysteries, you will love anything by Stone!
4 reviews
November 8, 2020
Fun.

Just good reading. A pleasant time with sweet people and adorable dogs, falling in love with each other and their friends.
Profile Image for Cheryl A. Swift.
97 reviews
November 10, 2020
Good series!

I’m enjoying this series as much as the first one I read. It moves along quickly and keeps me wondering what’s going to happen next. I highly recommend it!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews

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