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Genuine Deceit
When a young woman finds herself unknowingly accountable for the past sins of her family, she must unravel their secrets and lies to stay alive.
When her grandmother is brutally murdered in her own home, Reagan Asher leaves her corporate job and rushes to her sleepy hometown in Ohio. She has barely entered the house before a second break-in attempt is made, prompting police to believe it’s not just a random burglary. Reagan’s lifelong friend Mattie asks Aiden Rannell, her brother-in-law and an ex-Navy Seal, to lend support and protection to Reagan as she navigates the investigation.
Aiden suggests a ring that Reagan’s grandmother owned may be more valuable than anyone realizes. Considering her frugal life growing up, Reagan dismisses the idea, showing Aiden an old pink box filled with similar colorful, ornate costume jewelry she and her friends played with as children. When they find a decades-sealed container with shocking contents supporting Aiden’s concerns, Reagan begs him to help her find the origin and if it is related to her Nana’s death.
Finding clues to solve a decades old mystery proves challenging as the threats to Reagan’s life escalate. Could the discovery of a water-stained, half-torn photo found in her grandmother’s safe deposit box be significant? Her mother’s suicide? Her father’s abandonment? Unanswered questions send Reagan and Aiden across the country in search of answers, with danger never far behind. With each new revelation of deception and lies, Reagan begins to doubt everything she ever knew about her life.
When her grandmother is brutally murdered in her own home, Reagan Asher leaves her corporate job and rushes to her sleepy hometown in Ohio. She has barely entered the house before a second break-in attempt is made, prompting police to believe it’s not just a random burglary. Reagan’s lifelong friend Mattie asks Aiden Rannell, her brother-in-law and an ex-Navy Seal, to lend support and protection to Reagan as she navigates the investigation.
Aiden suggests a ring that Reagan’s grandmother owned may be more valuable than anyone realizes. Considering her frugal life growing up, Reagan dismisses the idea, showing Aiden an old pink box filled with similar colorful, ornate costume jewelry she and her friends played with as children. When they find a decades-sealed container with shocking contents supporting Aiden’s concerns, Reagan begs him to help her find the origin and if it is related to her Nana’s death.
Finding clues to solve a decades old mystery proves challenging as the threats to Reagan’s life escalate. Could the discovery of a water-stained, half-torn photo found in her grandmother’s safe deposit box be significant? Her mother’s suicide? Her father’s abandonment? Unanswered questions send Reagan and Aiden across the country in search of answers, with danger never far behind. With each new revelation of deception and lies, Reagan begins to doubt everything she ever knew about her life.
285 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 6, 2021
44 people are currently reading
57 people want to read
About the author
Joy York
4 books64 followersJoy York grew up in Alabama but has spent much of her adult life in the Midwest, currently living with her husband in Indiana. Inspired by a family legacy of oral storytelling, she began creating stories and adventures for her son when he was growing up. With encouragement from family and friends, she began to write them down. Her first book, The Bloody Shoe Affair: A daring and thrilling adventure with the jailer’s daughter (The Jailer's Daughter Mysteries Book 1), a YA mystery, was published in 2015. Genuine Deceit, an adult suspense novel, is her second book. Protective Instinct: A Thriller was recently published. The Moonshine Murders (The Jailer's Daughter Mysteries Book 2) will be released March 25, 2024. For more information, visit www.joyyork.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
April 9, 2022
I was lured by the name of this book, wondering how deceit could be genuine! I was not disappointed. All speculations about who deceived whom and why would fail and you have to wait till the end to know the truth. ‘Genuine Deceit’ deals with a multi-dimensional plot with its tentacles connected with the past of Reagan’s parents and complicated relationships.
Shocked by the murder of her grandmother, Reagan arrives in her childhood home and gets sucked in by the vortex of inexplicable discoveries. As she is trying to find a foothold, she sinks deeper into the whirlpool of mysteries. Her friends try to help her but it is hard to believe whom to trust. The story gets murkier with each chapter, each development entangles it more than expectations. It moves at a good pace but it could’ve been breathtaking if a few superfluous chapters were edited.
Characterisation has not received much attention, as the story is packed with events. However, Aiden emerges to be a perfect protagonist who could absorb emotions, support Reagan in all the situations yet give her the freedom to make her own decisions. Fiona’s character development is slow but stunning. Secondary characters sound nondescript.
Too much has been compressed into this book and the baggage of back stories is so massive that you would wonder - what else? It finishes in a filmy style with amazing visual details, transporting you to the scene of crime. Such an outstanding plot doesn't need profane language - (F and S words) could have been avoided. If you like mysteries, this is a must read!
Shocked by the murder of her grandmother, Reagan arrives in her childhood home and gets sucked in by the vortex of inexplicable discoveries. As she is trying to find a foothold, she sinks deeper into the whirlpool of mysteries. Her friends try to help her but it is hard to believe whom to trust. The story gets murkier with each chapter, each development entangles it more than expectations. It moves at a good pace but it could’ve been breathtaking if a few superfluous chapters were edited.
Characterisation has not received much attention, as the story is packed with events. However, Aiden emerges to be a perfect protagonist who could absorb emotions, support Reagan in all the situations yet give her the freedom to make her own decisions. Fiona’s character development is slow but stunning. Secondary characters sound nondescript.
Too much has been compressed into this book and the baggage of back stories is so massive that you would wonder - what else? It finishes in a filmy style with amazing visual details, transporting you to the scene of crime. Such an outstanding plot doesn't need profane language - (F and S words) could have been avoided. If you like mysteries, this is a must read!
July 23, 2023
I was very impressed by author Joy York’s flawless construction of this very complex, very twisty story that starts out with a puzzling discovery at the home of the protagonist’s deceased grandmother. From there, the action comes fast and furiously. The plot progresses rapidly, with one crazy surprise after another, and Reagan Asher unwittingly becomes the prime target for thieves who are desperate to reclaim what they have stolen.
So many baffling revelations surface, and Reagan’s emotions are whipsawed in every direction. Fortunately for her, Aiden Rannell is there when Reagan makes her first startling discovery. Together they barely stay one step ahead of the murderous thugs who wreaking havoc in the lives of everyone close to Reagan as they try to unravel the mystery behind a king’s ransom in stolen jewels. Everything Reagan thought she knew about her family is turned upside-down and inside out.
“Genuine Deceit” is a nonstop, action-packed thriller that kept me constantly in suspense and kept me reading as fast as I could. I was hooked right from the start and I didn’t want to put it down! Great story with a very satisfying conclusion. I can’t wait to see what this author does next!
So many baffling revelations surface, and Reagan’s emotions are whipsawed in every direction. Fortunately for her, Aiden Rannell is there when Reagan makes her first startling discovery. Together they barely stay one step ahead of the murderous thugs who wreaking havoc in the lives of everyone close to Reagan as they try to unravel the mystery behind a king’s ransom in stolen jewels. Everything Reagan thought she knew about her family is turned upside-down and inside out.
“Genuine Deceit” is a nonstop, action-packed thriller that kept me constantly in suspense and kept me reading as fast as I could. I was hooked right from the start and I didn’t want to put it down! Great story with a very satisfying conclusion. I can’t wait to see what this author does next!
November 25, 2022
A terrific suspense novel with some unexpected twists to keep the reader turning the pages.
A mystery spanning decades begins to unravel as Reagan Asher encounters unsettling discoveries following the murder of her grandmother. To complicate matters she finds herself torn between her new protector and a boyfriend who may or may not be serious about their relationship. It is an emotional rollercoaster which is not helpful when her life and the lives of those she cares about are in danger.
The author does a great job of keeping the pace moving along and slipping in the reveals in a timely way to keep the reader glued to the story. Some of these are red herrings which result in the police and FBI are being creative with their investigations as they attempt to make the pieces of the puzzle fit.
All the characters are carefully crafted with strengths, but also the small imperfections that make them believable. Those on the dark side of the story are certainly well portrayed, and their attempts to retrieve what they consider to be theirs are chilling.
As Aiden’s and Reagan’s relationship develops, they are led into a complex and dangerous labyrinth built by a man and a woman with a secret they will go to great lengths to protect, and a criminal conspiracy from the past. There is plenty of action, romance, surprises and a great lead up to the climax of the story that both challenges Reagan’s belief in who she really is, and brings together a family separated by deceit.
I highly recommend this book to mystery and thriller lovers who love to be kept in suspense right to the end of the story.
A mystery spanning decades begins to unravel as Reagan Asher encounters unsettling discoveries following the murder of her grandmother. To complicate matters she finds herself torn between her new protector and a boyfriend who may or may not be serious about their relationship. It is an emotional rollercoaster which is not helpful when her life and the lives of those she cares about are in danger.
The author does a great job of keeping the pace moving along and slipping in the reveals in a timely way to keep the reader glued to the story. Some of these are red herrings which result in the police and FBI are being creative with their investigations as they attempt to make the pieces of the puzzle fit.
All the characters are carefully crafted with strengths, but also the small imperfections that make them believable. Those on the dark side of the story are certainly well portrayed, and their attempts to retrieve what they consider to be theirs are chilling.
As Aiden’s and Reagan’s relationship develops, they are led into a complex and dangerous labyrinth built by a man and a woman with a secret they will go to great lengths to protect, and a criminal conspiracy from the past. There is plenty of action, romance, surprises and a great lead up to the climax of the story that both challenges Reagan’s belief in who she really is, and brings together a family separated by deceit.
I highly recommend this book to mystery and thriller lovers who love to be kept in suspense right to the end of the story.
August 3, 2023
When Reagan Asher's grandmother is brutally murdered, her return to her home soon leads to a terrorizing series of events. Someone is convinced the house contains something they want. Her close friend is concerned and has her brother-in-law stay close to Reagan during the investigation to protect her. Ex-Navy Seal, Aiden Rannell agrees, but has he taken on more than he can handle?
Dark family secrets, tragedies, and hidden treasure emerges, leading Reagan to question her upbringing. She's also perplexed with her budding feelings for Aiden. As the attacks continue, her friends' lives are also in danger. Will Reagan and Aiden be able to find out who is behind the decades old mystery before someone else is injured or killed?
Author York weaves a page turning tale of thrilling suspense. Just when you think you may have figured out who's doing what, another twist changes things all around. A highly recommended read for fans of suspense-filled mysteries, with a daring dash of romance!
Dark family secrets, tragedies, and hidden treasure emerges, leading Reagan to question her upbringing. She's also perplexed with her budding feelings for Aiden. As the attacks continue, her friends' lives are also in danger. Will Reagan and Aiden be able to find out who is behind the decades old mystery before someone else is injured or killed?
Author York weaves a page turning tale of thrilling suspense. Just when you think you may have figured out who's doing what, another twist changes things all around. A highly recommended read for fans of suspense-filled mysteries, with a daring dash of romance!
July 25, 2022
Reagan comes home after her grandmother was killed during a house robbery in this fast-paced mystery. Her best friend, Mattie, enlists her ex-seal brother-in-law, Aiden, to look after Reagan when she can’t be there. It’s soon apparent Reagan needs some help since another burglary follows the first. There is a slowly developing relationship between the two as they uncover clues that only add more questions about what happened. Some old play jewelry may be part of the answer, while it becomes apparent that someone wants something in Reagan’s grandmother’s house. Reagan not only runs across old pictures she’s never seen before but begins to piece together her family’s history. There were many twists, and I kept reading to see what would happen next. The end had a surprise that I didn’t see coming. The story was packed with several side stories and shifting suspects. A layered whodunit with a touch of romance and friendship. This is a fun read for all mystery lovers.
July 3, 2022
“Genuine Deceit” by Joy York is a great fast-paced suspense novel that is chock o’ block full of mystery. This is a book that grabbed me immediately, and I devoured the book within a 24-hour period.
I didn’t want to put the book down as the mystery and suspense coupled with the plot twists and turns had me on edge wanting to read the next chapter. That is a sure sign of great suspense/mystery novel.
Ms. York’s book is excellently written with great dialogue, a superbly interwoven plot that slowly reveals facts, and a fast-paced rhythm that keeps the reader wanting more. The author has purposefully dotted “Genuine Deceit” with clues that are full of twists and turns so that the reader is solving the mystery as the story unfolds. Superbly done!
This a mystery book that I didn’t want to put down! Really looking forward to reading more books by this author.
I didn’t want to put the book down as the mystery and suspense coupled with the plot twists and turns had me on edge wanting to read the next chapter. That is a sure sign of great suspense/mystery novel.
Ms. York’s book is excellently written with great dialogue, a superbly interwoven plot that slowly reveals facts, and a fast-paced rhythm that keeps the reader wanting more. The author has purposefully dotted “Genuine Deceit” with clues that are full of twists and turns so that the reader is solving the mystery as the story unfolds. Superbly done!
This a mystery book that I didn’t want to put down! Really looking forward to reading more books by this author.
February 6, 2022
Let me start by saying what I hate in books the most - A predictable story line.
Consequently that's what I love about Genuine Deceit the most. The narrative is filled with twists and turns and at no point in time are you able to predict what is going to happen. And in the end even when you think everything is resolved it is not.
So if you think you are a reader who is great at predicting the plot and that there is no way in hell the writer can surprise you than accept this challenge and pick up Genuine Deceit. Hats off to the author for her fast paced writing and ability to engage the reader.
Consequently that's what I love about Genuine Deceit the most. The narrative is filled with twists and turns and at no point in time are you able to predict what is going to happen. And in the end even when you think everything is resolved it is not.
So if you think you are a reader who is great at predicting the plot and that there is no way in hell the writer can surprise you than accept this challenge and pick up Genuine Deceit. Hats off to the author for her fast paced writing and ability to engage the reader.
September 15, 2024
Oh. My. Gosh!
This book has more twists than a pretzel factory, and I loved every bit of it! I can guarantee you that there is no way you will figure out the ending before you read it firsthand!
This story has it all. Mystery, intrigue, murder, love, suspense, and nearly non-stop action! Genuine Deceit is the PERFECT title for it!!!
If you pride yourself on figuring out who-dunit this book will prove you wrong! It is very well written and will keep your attention throughout, and I highly recommend it!
Outstanding!
This book has more twists than a pretzel factory, and I loved every bit of it! I can guarantee you that there is no way you will figure out the ending before you read it firsthand!
This story has it all. Mystery, intrigue, murder, love, suspense, and nearly non-stop action! Genuine Deceit is the PERFECT title for it!!!
If you pride yourself on figuring out who-dunit this book will prove you wrong! It is very well written and will keep your attention throughout, and I highly recommend it!
Outstanding!
November 29, 2024
Interesting Name, Genuine Deceit, a contradiction of terms. This rather describes this story. While so much of the conspiracy seems clocked in deceit, there is so much genuine story that is a unique blend. I enjoy a great conspiracy. I enjoy them even more when they are wrapped in such a good character situation story. The expertly blended story of the daily lives of the characters added another level of enjoyment for me. Reagan and Aiden are wanting nothing more than to disappear from responsibility for a couple of different reasons. Instead, they are catapulted into a nonstop hurricane of dangerous situations after another. Dangerous thugs, a grandmother’s murder, an inherited house and a staggeringly expensive heirloom only complicate the central high paced story. I enjoyed Genuine Deceit to the max and highly recommend it for fans of the best of conspiracy novels.
November 28, 2022
The title alone says it all. How can deceit be genuine? Yet Reagan Asher soon learns that everything she held dear is not what it seems.
Upon learning of her grandmother’s brutal murder, Reagan returns to her hometown. Her friend Mattie enlists the help of her brother-in-law Aiden, a former Navy SEAL to look after Reagan while she’s in town.
When a second break-in occurs in her grandmother’s house, Reagan and Aiden set out to discover what the killer was after. The discovery of jewelry, worth hundreds of thousands of dollars, lead them across the country in an effort to learn who hid the jewelry and why.
Reagan is torn between her feelings for Aiden and her “boyfriend” who shows up unexpectedly. There are plenty of twists and turns that kept me in suspense until the end.
A great mystery that will keep you turning the pages until the surprising conclusion.
Upon learning of her grandmother’s brutal murder, Reagan returns to her hometown. Her friend Mattie enlists the help of her brother-in-law Aiden, a former Navy SEAL to look after Reagan while she’s in town.
When a second break-in occurs in her grandmother’s house, Reagan and Aiden set out to discover what the killer was after. The discovery of jewelry, worth hundreds of thousands of dollars, lead them across the country in an effort to learn who hid the jewelry and why.
Reagan is torn between her feelings for Aiden and her “boyfriend” who shows up unexpectedly. There are plenty of twists and turns that kept me in suspense until the end.
A great mystery that will keep you turning the pages until the surprising conclusion.
December 16, 2021
Complex generation-spanning why-done-it homicide/theft
Wow! An elderly woman surprises a burglar and is slain, with burglary-cum-robbery-cum homicide as a working theory - yet the crime scene is invaded again and again, putting the heir of the victim’s estate in the cross-hairs of some very unpleasant and desperate men.
As the investigation into the murder and subsequent vandalism, including threats against everyone in contact with the young woman, grinds on, truths emerge from startling and shocking revelations.
Wow! An elderly woman surprises a burglar and is slain, with burglary-cum-robbery-cum homicide as a working theory - yet the crime scene is invaded again and again, putting the heir of the victim’s estate in the cross-hairs of some very unpleasant and desperate men.
As the investigation into the murder and subsequent vandalism, including threats against everyone in contact with the young woman, grinds on, truths emerge from startling and shocking revelations.
February 17, 2022
One of my favorite types of mysteries. One in which I have no clue how it will end. Ms. York spins a tale that is intriguing, set in a normal small hometown, but one in which the characters are not whom they appear to be on the surface. The twists mesmerized me and had me suspecting first one character, then another. I adored this book, couldn't put it down, and am eager for another roller coaster ride by Ms. York. Absolutely more than a 5-star novel.
August 29, 2022
Genuine Deceit is a page-turning mystery thriller that won’t disappoint. The plot twists and turns, about the questionable ancestry of nana’s jewels, and I wanted to know what was going to happen next. I loved how York weaved the romance in the storyline with Reagan and Aiden as well. There was always something happening that kept me fully engaged all the way along which is storytelling at its best.
August 16, 2022
Many twists and turns. I thought I had it all figured out but I didn’t. A page turner that leaves you hanging until the very last page. I recommend this book for your book club. I think you will enjoy it!
September 18, 2023
Several months after spending a wonderful holiday season with her grandmother, a young woman is called back when her grandmother is brutally murdered in her own home. Reagan leaves work and rushes home where she meets her best friend’s brother-in-law, an ex-Navy Seal. He was sent to help protect Reagan Asher as she tries to determine what happened. Together, they deal with the police but find themselves caught up in multiple attempts to harm Reagan as well. As they sort out grandmother’s home, lie after lie is revealed to Reagan. Everything she believed about her life, her parents, her family, her security, and her world is destroyed and comes crashing down around her. Further investigation finds jewels worth millions hidden in the home and undoubtedly what the murderers are looking and willing to kill for again. Genuine Deceit is a novel filled with intrigue, mystery, unsuspected romance, and twists, including a major one at the end you won’t see coming!
Great Job Joy York!!
Great Job Joy York!!
November 30, 2023
It’s such a pleasure to open a book and as you start reading become immediately interested and invested in the outcome of the characters. You become so immersed in the story that you can’t bear to close the covers! That’s what happened to me when I opened the first page of Genuine Deceit by master mystery author, Joy York.
There is so much to this novel that it cannot be classified as only suspense! It’s filled with intriguing characters and a labyrinthine plot setup which takes you careening into twists and turns you didn’t see coming! To say I enjoyed this book is a gross understatement. I heartily recommend it to all aficionados of the genre—which by the way in my opinion—loses the categorical form name “genre fiction” due to the very fine writing ability of the author. It’s closer to literary standards with elements and scenes of thrilling, suspenseful fiction!
There is so much to this novel that it cannot be classified as only suspense! It’s filled with intriguing characters and a labyrinthine plot setup which takes you careening into twists and turns you didn’t see coming! To say I enjoyed this book is a gross understatement. I heartily recommend it to all aficionados of the genre—which by the way in my opinion—loses the categorical form name “genre fiction” due to the very fine writing ability of the author. It’s closer to literary standards with elements and scenes of thrilling, suspenseful fiction!
December 1, 2024
Family matters!
Great, confusing but impressive story! Lots of twists and turns, a guy you'd like to meet in your own life and a happy ending. Just right for a Thanksgiving read. I enjoyed it thoroughly!
Great, confusing but impressive story! Lots of twists and turns, a guy you'd like to meet in your own life and a happy ending. Just right for a Thanksgiving read. I enjoyed it thoroughly!
March 29, 2022
Reagan Asher's grandmother was brutally murdered by a burglar in her home. Why?
When Reagan comes to the small town in Ohio to bury her grandmother and to help in the investigation, her friend, Mattie, dispatches her brother-in-law, Aiden - a former Navy Seal - to help protect Reagan while she's in town.
Suppose everything you ever learned in life about your family was not real...
Suppose you discover that the props you played with as a child were real...
More break-ins occur and the home is eventually trashed - grandma must have hidden something of value. Surely not the costumed jewelry as there was no interest in them.
Reagan and Aiden take it upon themselves to find the killer. They do find a stash of jewels hidden in a decades-long box in one of the rooms; why they were hidden and who put them there? Surely this is what the burglars are after.
The killer(s) feel that Reagan knows where the jewels are hidden. Characters are kidnapped, shot, and beaten severely in attempts to locate the missing items. Reagan and Aiden are not telling. There are so many questions that require answers and the author continues to tease readers with twists and turns along the way. The final chapter brings everything together and will definitely floor readers when the bomb is dropped.
I have to admit some portions of the story dragged on, especially when re-telling the same thing to different characters...this happened a few times. Eliminating those would shorten the story and help to maintain an exciting pace instead of bogging down. I also found several typos/added words that I will share with the author in a PM.
All-in-all, Ms. Joy York did a wonderful job in keeping readers guessing during this edge-of-your-seat ride. I recommend Genuine Deceit to everyone who enjoys a great who-done-it.
When Reagan comes to the small town in Ohio to bury her grandmother and to help in the investigation, her friend, Mattie, dispatches her brother-in-law, Aiden - a former Navy Seal - to help protect Reagan while she's in town.
Suppose everything you ever learned in life about your family was not real...
Suppose you discover that the props you played with as a child were real...
More break-ins occur and the home is eventually trashed - grandma must have hidden something of value. Surely not the costumed jewelry as there was no interest in them.
Reagan and Aiden take it upon themselves to find the killer. They do find a stash of jewels hidden in a decades-long box in one of the rooms; why they were hidden and who put them there? Surely this is what the burglars are after.
The killer(s) feel that Reagan knows where the jewels are hidden. Characters are kidnapped, shot, and beaten severely in attempts to locate the missing items. Reagan and Aiden are not telling. There are so many questions that require answers and the author continues to tease readers with twists and turns along the way. The final chapter brings everything together and will definitely floor readers when the bomb is dropped.
I have to admit some portions of the story dragged on, especially when re-telling the same thing to different characters...this happened a few times. Eliminating those would shorten the story and help to maintain an exciting pace instead of bogging down. I also found several typos/added words that I will share with the author in a PM.
All-in-all, Ms. Joy York did a wonderful job in keeping readers guessing during this edge-of-your-seat ride. I recommend Genuine Deceit to everyone who enjoys a great who-done-it.
July 11, 2023
When her grandmother is murdered in what at first seems to be a burglary gone wrong, Reagan Asher undertakes her own investigation alongside the police. What starts out as a ‘who done it’, quickly becomes a compelling ‘why done it’ as Asher uncovers decades of deception that has her questioning everything she thought her life to be and endangers not only her own life but that of those closest to her. With well drawn characters, realistic relationships and a touch of romance Genuine Deceit is an absolute nail-biting page turner.
March 5, 2023
This was an amazing story that just kept going—giving the reader more and more to ponder.
When Reagan Asher’s grandmother is murdered in her modest home in Ohio, she is wholly unprepared for what follows the tragic event. Everything she thought she knew about her life, her identity, her family, and everything else, unravels before her eyes. Simultaneously, she is questioning her current relationship with Tyler, her boyfriend back in Chicago, as her best friend’s brother-in-law, Aiden, appears on the scene and takes center stage in her heart. But how can she judge anything in the state that she’s in? Who can she trust?
As soon as one question is answered, another is asked. Then another and another. It’s like being in a maze of fun-house mirrors where nothing is what it appears to be. There is threat after threat and mystery after mystery. Will it ever resolve?
Joy York has skillfully plotted a story of deceit that spans the years and is complex and action-packed from beginning to end. I not only enjoyed the suspense aspect of this novel, but Reagan’s evolution as a young woman struck a chord with me. Ms. York did an excellent job of zeroing in on the complexities of human nature and bringing to life relatable, flawed characters that readers can identify with. A thoroughly enjoyable novel.
When Reagan Asher’s grandmother is murdered in her modest home in Ohio, she is wholly unprepared for what follows the tragic event. Everything she thought she knew about her life, her identity, her family, and everything else, unravels before her eyes. Simultaneously, she is questioning her current relationship with Tyler, her boyfriend back in Chicago, as her best friend’s brother-in-law, Aiden, appears on the scene and takes center stage in her heart. But how can she judge anything in the state that she’s in? Who can she trust?
As soon as one question is answered, another is asked. Then another and another. It’s like being in a maze of fun-house mirrors where nothing is what it appears to be. There is threat after threat and mystery after mystery. Will it ever resolve?
Joy York has skillfully plotted a story of deceit that spans the years and is complex and action-packed from beginning to end. I not only enjoyed the suspense aspect of this novel, but Reagan’s evolution as a young woman struck a chord with me. Ms. York did an excellent job of zeroing in on the complexities of human nature and bringing to life relatable, flawed characters that readers can identify with. A thoroughly enjoyable novel.
November 1, 2022
After her grandmother is brutally murdered in an apparent robbery, main character Reagan returns home to the scene of the crime in order to deal with the aftermath. But as it turns out, this was no ordinary burglary and circumstances quickly escalate out of control. As if that weren't enough, Reagan also finds herself falling for her best friend's brother, who has been trying to help her out in every way possible. This intriguing story then continues to unfold itself in a series of twists and turns that even the most die-hard mystery fan won't see coming. I thought I had it all figured out...but not so! High recommendations for this very entertaining, twisty read.
December 29, 2022
An author to look out for!
I downloaded this book as I’d seen this author advertising on Twitter and liked the sound of the blurb. Thank goodness I did – I absolutely devoured it. I liked the unpredictability of the story, I do like to keep guessing as I turn each page and this author’s style certainly does that. The characters were engaging (and endearing) – it felt like I knew then personally such was the quality of the writing. The whole narrative was one of mystery and certainly keeps the reader guessing. I can thoroughly recommend this book if you like a plot with a twist, and look forward to more from this talented author.
I downloaded this book as I’d seen this author advertising on Twitter and liked the sound of the blurb. Thank goodness I did – I absolutely devoured it. I liked the unpredictability of the story, I do like to keep guessing as I turn each page and this author’s style certainly does that. The characters were engaging (and endearing) – it felt like I knew then personally such was the quality of the writing. The whole narrative was one of mystery and certainly keeps the reader guessing. I can thoroughly recommend this book if you like a plot with a twist, and look forward to more from this talented author.
February 2, 2023
An exciting fast moving twisty murder mystery novel. It turned me back into a night owl. Bobbie Kaald
March 28, 2023
Wonderful read!!!
March 17, 2024
I will start by saying, whew! What a roller coaster of events!
An engaging suspense story. It all begins at Reagan’s Nana’s house when she is found murdered. Reagan flies from her hometown Chicago, to Ohio when she hears what happened to her Nana.
A seemingly frugal grandma murdered in her own home, for what? That’s what I savored every page to find out as Aiden and Reagan led a dangerous investigation of their own. The police had still assumed it was a burglary gone bad when Reagan and Aiden uncovered something big and they were determined to find out what some of the clues led to for themselves before sharing with the police. If Aiden hadn’t have had a sneaky suspicion about a ring Reagan played with as a child and believed her whole life it was costume jewelry, this story would have turned out very different – and not in a good way.
Besides the many chases and perilous moments in this great suspense – with a touch of romance, Reagan had to deal with realizing that some of the people she grew up with as family, had quite the pasts that left her questioning much of her childhood. With her father abandoning her as a child, and her mother committing suicide when she was only seven, her Nana raised her, and everything she thought she knew about her grandmother wasn’t truth.
Reagan’s best friend Mattie, since childhood asks her husband’s brother Aiden to watch over Reagan while the burglar/murderer is still at large. The pair begin searching the house hoping to find clues as to what this burglar wanted and come across some old photos of Reagan’s mom and some of her friends that piqued Reagan’s curiousity. And then a surprising discovery of a safety deposit key that belonged to her Nana.
During one of their many visits back to Nana’s house, Reagan and Aiden are faced with danger as the burglar comes back, still looking for what he didn’t previously find. And the hunt and chases begin. With many near death experiences, attempted kidnappings, plentiful twists and turns, this book was an addictive read. The author masterfully ties in all the characters, crimes, and red herrings. Also, there was a stunning revelation in the last chapter we don’t see coming. I certainly look forward to reading more from this author. If you love suspenseful page-turners, you will love this book.
An engaging suspense story. It all begins at Reagan’s Nana’s house when she is found murdered. Reagan flies from her hometown Chicago, to Ohio when she hears what happened to her Nana.
A seemingly frugal grandma murdered in her own home, for what? That’s what I savored every page to find out as Aiden and Reagan led a dangerous investigation of their own. The police had still assumed it was a burglary gone bad when Reagan and Aiden uncovered something big and they were determined to find out what some of the clues led to for themselves before sharing with the police. If Aiden hadn’t have had a sneaky suspicion about a ring Reagan played with as a child and believed her whole life it was costume jewelry, this story would have turned out very different – and not in a good way.
Besides the many chases and perilous moments in this great suspense – with a touch of romance, Reagan had to deal with realizing that some of the people she grew up with as family, had quite the pasts that left her questioning much of her childhood. With her father abandoning her as a child, and her mother committing suicide when she was only seven, her Nana raised her, and everything she thought she knew about her grandmother wasn’t truth.
Reagan’s best friend Mattie, since childhood asks her husband’s brother Aiden to watch over Reagan while the burglar/murderer is still at large. The pair begin searching the house hoping to find clues as to what this burglar wanted and come across some old photos of Reagan’s mom and some of her friends that piqued Reagan’s curiousity. And then a surprising discovery of a safety deposit key that belonged to her Nana.
During one of their many visits back to Nana’s house, Reagan and Aiden are faced with danger as the burglar comes back, still looking for what he didn’t previously find. And the hunt and chases begin. With many near death experiences, attempted kidnappings, plentiful twists and turns, this book was an addictive read. The author masterfully ties in all the characters, crimes, and red herrings. Also, there was a stunning revelation in the last chapter we don’t see coming. I certainly look forward to reading more from this author. If you love suspenseful page-turners, you will love this book.
October 30, 2024
My, what a tangled web we weave! Imagine finding out that everything you believed about your family growing up was nothing but lies piled on top of lies.
That's exactly what happened to Reagan. She has just lost the one person she loved and that loved her, her grandmother. And she didn't just lose her grandmother. She was brutally murdered in her own home. That incident brings Reagan back to her hometown to tend to the funeral and the sale of the house she grew up in. What Reagan can't possibly know is the mountain of secrets, lies and deceit that she will uncover one excruciatingly painful layer at a time.
Thank goodness for her best friend, Mattie, who is there to help Reagan through this difficult time. But it's Aiden, Mattie's ex-navy seal brother-in-law, who steps up to help protect Reagan as threats on her life emerge. And it doesn't hurt that he's drop-dead gorgeous. I loved the romance that bloomed between them, but a couple of times, I totally lost patience with Reagan as she made some not-so-good choices. In her defense, she is dealing with a lot and it would break even the strongest person.
I won't leave any spoilers, but I will say that the depth of the lies and deceit left me stunned. Ms. York did a fabulous job of unraveling the different facets and mysteries that abound in this story. The complicated family dynamics adds to the suspense. If you love a book full of unpredictable plot twists, mysteries that stretch all the way to Lebanon, and flawed characters, you will enjoy this story!
That's exactly what happened to Reagan. She has just lost the one person she loved and that loved her, her grandmother. And she didn't just lose her grandmother. She was brutally murdered in her own home. That incident brings Reagan back to her hometown to tend to the funeral and the sale of the house she grew up in. What Reagan can't possibly know is the mountain of secrets, lies and deceit that she will uncover one excruciatingly painful layer at a time.
Thank goodness for her best friend, Mattie, who is there to help Reagan through this difficult time. But it's Aiden, Mattie's ex-navy seal brother-in-law, who steps up to help protect Reagan as threats on her life emerge. And it doesn't hurt that he's drop-dead gorgeous. I loved the romance that bloomed between them, but a couple of times, I totally lost patience with Reagan as she made some not-so-good choices. In her defense, she is dealing with a lot and it would break even the strongest person.
I won't leave any spoilers, but I will say that the depth of the lies and deceit left me stunned. Ms. York did a fabulous job of unraveling the different facets and mysteries that abound in this story. The complicated family dynamics adds to the suspense. If you love a book full of unpredictable plot twists, mysteries that stretch all the way to Lebanon, and flawed characters, you will enjoy this story!
August 21, 2023
Readers who enjoy twists will find a lot to like about this book. The action starts in the first chapter and the surprises follow on their heels right up to the very end of the story. Just when I thought there couldn’t be another one … there was another one.
Reagan is a young woman from a complicated family, and she carries a lot of emotional baggage. When the grandmother who raised her is brutally murdered, she heads to her hometown to deal with the funeral and estate. It’s an emotional undertaking to start with, but the killer was hunting for something, and now he’s after Reagan, believing she has what he wants. What ensues is a desperate fight for her life.
She’s aided by her friend’s brother-in-law, Aidan, a Navy Seal, who provides a little romance alongside all the action. The romantic subplot doesn’t overwhelm the more complicated threats or Reagan’s attempts to learn her family’s endless secrets. All the scenes are well written, but I thought the action scenes were particularly gripping, and then there were all those twists and turns that had my head spinning (in a good way).
The characters were well-rounded and distinct from top to bottom, and the pace moved along nicely. Despite its complexity, the plot was easy to follow. Highly recommended to fans of murder thrillers with a touch of romance and family drama.
Reagan is a young woman from a complicated family, and she carries a lot of emotional baggage. When the grandmother who raised her is brutally murdered, she heads to her hometown to deal with the funeral and estate. It’s an emotional undertaking to start with, but the killer was hunting for something, and now he’s after Reagan, believing she has what he wants. What ensues is a desperate fight for her life.
She’s aided by her friend’s brother-in-law, Aidan, a Navy Seal, who provides a little romance alongside all the action. The romantic subplot doesn’t overwhelm the more complicated threats or Reagan’s attempts to learn her family’s endless secrets. All the scenes are well written, but I thought the action scenes were particularly gripping, and then there were all those twists and turns that had my head spinning (in a good way).
The characters were well-rounded and distinct from top to bottom, and the pace moved along nicely. Despite its complexity, the plot was easy to follow. Highly recommended to fans of murder thrillers with a touch of romance and family drama.
June 29, 2025
Genuine Deceit is not the first book I've read by the talented Joy York, and it will not be my last. York has a knack for drawing her readers immediately into her books. In this case, her main character, Reagan Asher, returns to her hometown upon learning her grandmother was murdered by someone breaking into her home. When another break-in occurs, Reagan and Detective Kowalski are puzzled, as Reagan's grandmother had lived a simple life and had nothing of any real value. What she would soon discover, with the help of Aiden Rannell, a Navy SEAL, was that perhaps she didn't know her grandmother as well as she thought.
As the story unfolds, Reagan discovers jewels hidden in the air conditioner worth thousands. The tension between Aiden and Meagan begins to grow, although the two push their feelings aside as they become swept up in the mystery.
The concept of this story is intriguing and moves at a steady pace, never lagging in adventure. Genuine Deceit is suspenseful, with plenty of twists and turns to keep you flipping the pages.
The main characters, Reagan Asher and Aiden Rannell, are fully fleshed out and make a great team as they get thrown into a dangerous escapade. Where did the gems come from? Why were they hidden away, and who knew about them? As in all of York's stories, you get invested in the characters and their emotions. Good job, York!
As the story unfolds, Reagan discovers jewels hidden in the air conditioner worth thousands. The tension between Aiden and Meagan begins to grow, although the two push their feelings aside as they become swept up in the mystery.
The concept of this story is intriguing and moves at a steady pace, never lagging in adventure. Genuine Deceit is suspenseful, with plenty of twists and turns to keep you flipping the pages.
The main characters, Reagan Asher and Aiden Rannell, are fully fleshed out and make a great team as they get thrown into a dangerous escapade. Where did the gems come from? Why were they hidden away, and who knew about them? As in all of York's stories, you get invested in the characters and their emotions. Good job, York!
August 2, 2025
Impressive! The author and I often exchange a friendly word and shares on social spaces. Never would I have imagined she wrote this style of gripping stories. Her writing style is engaging, with slow-burn stories escalating into exciting climaxes. The perfect book to lose yourself in, while you recline and sip a glass of wine. The characters are real, so real, that I often found myself lost in the suspense, the world she created, filling their shoes, feeling I am there, unable to tear my gaze away from the mesmerizing pages. My heart would race, a physical manifestation of the tension, and my breath would hitch at particularly poignant moments, as if I were experiencing the events firsthand. The realistic dialog pulled me in, having me talk along, and even answering to the characters, my voice echoing softly in the quiet of my room. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story. Joy York is a total joy to read. I cannot wait to read her other books. ‘Genuine Deceit’ is a must-read, from a humble writer with a heart of gold and a pen filled with passion.
August 8, 2023
Attracted by the title and beguiling cover, I was keen to read this book. Did it live up to my expectations? Absolutely.
I was engrossed from page one, which is hardly surprising. The brutal murder of a beloved relative, childhood playthings with a dangerous history, friendships strained, the burgeoning romance, and then there’s betrayal. The web of intrigue contained within this thriller is extraordinary.
The plot, skilfully weaved by Joy York, teased my emotions as it ebbed and flowed in a series of complex twists and turns. I was similarly captivated by the brilliantly created characters as their complex interactions developed. Another critical success factor of this book is the treatment of suspense.
As the mystery unfolds, the reader is offered hints, suggestions, darkness, dead ends and new leads. It’s a real page-turner with a superb finale. For me, Joy York has a winning formula with Genuine Deceit. I loved the novel and hope she writes more.
I was engrossed from page one, which is hardly surprising. The brutal murder of a beloved relative, childhood playthings with a dangerous history, friendships strained, the burgeoning romance, and then there’s betrayal. The web of intrigue contained within this thriller is extraordinary.
The plot, skilfully weaved by Joy York, teased my emotions as it ebbed and flowed in a series of complex twists and turns. I was similarly captivated by the brilliantly created characters as their complex interactions developed. Another critical success factor of this book is the treatment of suspense.
As the mystery unfolds, the reader is offered hints, suggestions, darkness, dead ends and new leads. It’s a real page-turner with a superb finale. For me, Joy York has a winning formula with Genuine Deceit. I loved the novel and hope she writes more.
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