When a brutal attack on a business owner is followed by a suspicious death, the police first suspect the beginning of a new underworld drugs war.
Then a second victim is found dead, and the truth starts to look like something much worse.
With the death toll rising and her career under scrutiny from the media and her own superiors, Kay Hunter is running out of time to unravel the deadly secrets hiding behind ruthless ambition and treachery.
But Kay isn't going to give up easily.
Because this time, the first victim is closer to home...
Before turning to writing, USA Today bestselling crime author Rachel Amphlett played guitar in bands, worked as a TV and film extra, dabbled in radio, and worked in publishing as an editorial assistant.
She now wields a pen instead of a plectrum and writes crime fiction with over 30 crime novels and short stories featuring spies, detectives, vigilantes, and assassins.
A keen traveller and accidental private investigator, Rachel has both Australian and British citizenship.
Book 11 in the Detective Kay Hunter series and it is like being back with friends. So much so that it is a real shock when Adam is attacked and knocked unconscious during a break in at his veterinary surgery.
The thieves are of course looking for drugs and they take a large quantity. This is serious enough but then young people start dying from overdoses and it is obvious something has gone wrong in the resale of the stolen drugs. Kate struggles to be her normal collected self because she is obviously worried about Adam. She also has to be discreet about participating in the investigation since she is personally involved.
Of course all's well that ends well and there is even some humour to lighten the action. The last paragraph of the book is intended to leave the reader smiling. Very satisfying. Roll on the next book!
When Kay's partner Adam was rendered unconscious during a break-in at his veterinary surgery and the locked drugs cupboard emptied, the police thought a new drug dealer was on the streets. When first one person, then another died violently, and evidence of a badly cut ketamine drug surfaced, Kay and her team knew the time was short to discover the culprits. And with Barnes and Gavin heading the inquiries into the deaths, and the break-in because of Kay's connection to Adam, frustrations were mounting...
As the count added up from the spinoff of bad drugs, many wondered, would Kay and her dedicated team discover the culprit/s before it was too late? Would the signs of greed, secrets and betrayal lead to answers?
A Lethal Deception is the 11th in the Detective Kay Hunter series by Aussie author Rachel Amphlett and it was great catching up with the team again. They work well together and with eleven Kay Hunter books under the author's belt, I'm very hopeful the series will continue for a long time to come. Highly recommended.
A Lethal Deception is the eleventh instalment in British-Australian author Rachel Amphlett's series featuring Maidstone-based D.I. Kay Hunter, and is another great read.
The book opens with a violent attack on a business owner in Maidstone, and this case is particularly close to home for D.I. Hunter, as the victim is her own partner, veterinary surgeon Adam Turner. Adam was assaulted by an intruder to his practice after hours, apparently in the course of a robbery in which a significant amount of the drug ketamine has been stolen from the practice safe.
Not unexpectedly, her personal involvement in the case means that Kay is sidelined for much of the active investigation, and must rely on her subordinates D.S. Ian Barnes, D.C. Gavin Piper and D.C. Laura Hanway to undertake the majority of the interviews. This series stands out for the realism of its depiction of real-life police procedure, but I felt that even the curtailed involvement that Kay has over the course of the investigation is far in excess of what she could possibly be expected to have had in real life.
As Adam recovers in hospital, a second incident occurs, the apparent suicide of a young woman who had been launching an online business as an interior decorator. However, it's not long before this and another subsequent death are linked to the veterinary surgery break-in, as both victims are found to have traces of a particularly concentrated form of ketamine in their bodies. Both of the deceased were also members of a local business networking group for entrepreneurs. Is the connection purely coincidental, the deaths simply the result of misadventure by recreational drug users, or have these victims been specifically targeted by a clever villain?
A Lethal Deception was another compelling read from a reliably well-written police procedural series. The main character, D.I. Kay Hunter, faces more of an emotional rollercoaster than in other books, due to the involvement of her partner as a victim of violence. She's constantly facing the scrutiny of her superiors, pressured to take a back seat in the investigation to avoid undermining a future prosecution, while at the same time being urged to solve a case that's attracting plenty of public and press interest, as soon as possible. It was good to see some of the supporting police characters being given greater professional responsibility, and the degree to which the team gathered to support Kay during a period of emotional trauma.
One day soon, I'll go back and read this whole series from the start, as the plots are always well-paced and realistic, with plenty of twists and turns, the characters are convincing and the conclusions satisfying.
This author is a recent find for me and this, Book 11 in the Detective Kay Hunter Series, is a great read. This instalment centres around recreational drugs and a pharmaceutical company with a disturbing storyline that is only too close for comfort to todays society. The impact on friends and family when things go wrong is described in devastating detail as is the effect on Adam and his colleagues.
Briefly, Kay’s partner Adam is injured when his veterinary practice is targeted and dangerous drugs stolen. Shortly afterwards a body is found and drug overdose suspected. In view of Kay’s personal connection with the stolen drugs theft she is sidelined, still allowed to help with the case, but not as SIO. But someone has trodden on her toes and she is determined, alongside her supportive team to find out who.
Amongst all the angst there are plenty of lighthearted moments, in particular the dog with a suspected stomach condition who is residing with Adam whilst he is recuperating. A good fast paced read and one I throughly enjoyed, so much so I read it in one sitting ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
I do love the Kay Hunter series. Heck, I love all of Rachel Amphlett's books but there is something about getting into a really good, long running series, one where you can get to know, and love, the characters, that really makes the reading experience an absolute pleasure. This is one of those series. Combining initruging police investigations, with great characters who evoke a real myriad of emotions, there isn't a bad book amongst them, and A Lethal Deception, the latest in the series, is another winner.
In a case which is scarily close to home for Kay and the team, we find ourselves mixed up in a twisted and deadly investigation that circles the world of drug abuse, big pharma and organised theft. It's a very unusual case in that rather than being front and centre, Kay is somewhat sidelined in this particular investigation, and for once it's not because someone in the higher floors of HQ is out to cause trouble. I love seeing how Rachel Amphlett has explored Kay's conflicting emotions, the distraction caused by the nature of the case, but her absolute determination to get to the bottom of things, for reasons that are as much personal as professional. She is forced to trust colleagues, something she does implicitly anyway, but because being too involved could cost them a conviction. Kay is a normally really focused character, and seeing her slightly off balance adds a different dimension of tension to the story.
This book really taps into the growing trend, and concern, of using prescription drugs for illegal highs. The impact of a recent theft is widespread and reallys powers the team to find a resolution and prevent further tragedy. We can see the emotional impact cause by the devastating effects of using these drugs, on extended family and friends and you can feel it really punch out from the page. Anger, hurt, confusion - all natural reactions to the circumstances and all captured perfectly in the narrative.
There is a real sense of mystery surrounding the case. We know the what, can see where the investigation is likely to head, but all potential leds result in potential dead ends. Not all of the characters we meet throughout the course of the investigation are likeable, or sympathetic and there were some individuals who really got my dander up as we met them. The author has created an really authentic cast of characters who serve to create the necessary misdirection to keep the guilty party hidden to the very end. Greed and jealousy are the name of the game, a game in which losing could have deadly repercussions.
Now it's not all dark and deadly investigations, and this wouldn't be a Kay Hunter novel without a bit of banter and light hearted humour. Fans of the series will know that it's not unusual for Kay, and her partner Adam, to have some overnight guests, and the interloper this time around has some rather unfortunate habits. Throw in the usual shop floor banter amongst the Detective team, well needed in this particular case, and you have all the hallmarks of a classic, pacy, drama laden Kay Hunter investigation. I thoroughly enjoyed it and it's definitely recommended.
Detective Kay Hunter is back on the case in Rachel Amphlett’s highly charged new crime thriller, A Lethal Deception.
The brutal attack on a business owner and a subsequent death leaves the police suspecting that they might have the beginning of a violent drugs war on their hands. With resources stretched and the pressure mounting, this is the very last thing the police need at the moment, yet little do they realise that worse is to come. Another body is found, the victims begin piling up and what emerges from the meagre evidence available is that there is a tangled web of treachery and evil which needs to be stopped and the only woman who can stop it is Detective Kay Hunter.
Kay is used to pressure, but in all her years on the job she has never known stress like this. This case bring her in the line of fire of her superiors and with the media also having picked on her, Kay needs to act fast and produce results – quickly! Not only is Kay’s career on the line, but with a ruthless killer on the loose waiting to strike, she does not have the luxury of time. She needs to solve this case and ensure that justice is served – because the consequences simply do not bear thinking about…
With the odds stacked against her, Kay is determined to uncover the truth about this case – especially when the killer strikes far too close to home.
A gritty heart-jolting crime thriller I read in a single sitting, make sure you clear your diary because Rachel Amphlett is at her unputdownable best with A Lethal Deception. Gritty, unpredictable and full of twists and turns you simply won’t see coming, A Lethal Deception is a fast-paced chiller that will keep you guessing until the very end.
Kay Hunter is as brilliant as ever. A kickass, resilient and flawed detective, it is always a joy to spend time with her and she is on superb form in A Lethal Deception.
Shocking, chilling and far too good to miss, A Lethal Deception is another must-read Kay Hunter thriller by Rachel Amphlett.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Late last year I happened to read one of Rachel's books featuring Kay Hunter. The book I read was not the first in the series so I made it my mission to obtain every one in the series up to that date.I have achieved that goal and was only too happy to take part in Rachels Kickstart program. I have now read every book available and it is my hope to continue to do so. As a retired Police officer in New zealand, reading Rachels Kay Hunter series, I thought she must have served in the police at sometime, although the setting in the UK results in different jargon used by the officer to that in my country, she was so believable. I completed all the Kay Hunter books and" A Lethal Deception" was the icing on the cake. During this time up till now, I have obtained and either read or listened to the Dan Taylor, Mark Turpin, English Assassins, Case Files and stand alone novels. For anyone contemplating reading a real 'Not to be put down' book, anything by Rachel is a MUST. I now look forward to the latest issues as they become available. Dealing with Rachel and Assistant Zach on line is always a pleasure, they are both helpful and action requests promply and also, as I am in my 80's, I tend to get a bit confused but when I have double ordered or paid for a selection, they advise me and I receive a refund to my account immediatly, they are like family, not just after the almighty $$$$ but caring people. RHJ
This starts off seemingly inoccuously enough with a break in at a vets, where the strongest drugs are kept. Then a woman seemingly commits suicide from the top of a car park, and young people in the area start dropping dead with a small bag of white powder found on them or in their homes. This was engaging and had me hooked from the first page. I believe this is book 11 in a series, but it read brilliantly as a standalone. Clearly the team are established and that is clear when reading it. The banter and camaraderie between them is easy and genuine. Kay is a great character, it's great to see a female lead who isn't pathetically weak, patronised, or too strong and ball busting. She has a lovely relationship with her husband who is a vet, and is respected by her team. This was absolutely a page turner and I seemed to fly through it until its dramatic conclusion. Will be off to check out books 1-10, and keeping an eye out for any future books by Rachel, an author who has gone onto my must read list.
4.5 Stars. AUDIOBOOK REVIEW. Always love a Kay Hunter story, and after 11 books, I found this one was a little different from the usual. In this case, that's not a bad thing (though we fear change), but I had to make adjustments to my expectations. There were a lot fewer steaming mugs of hot beverages, and there was a lot more profanity than I remember. While I didn't enjoy those much, I did enjoy popping in on this familiar group of people and following them around for a bit. Something that stuck out was the repeated reference to Adam as being Kay's "partner," when I thought that he was referred to as her husband in other books. Just a minor thing, but it caught my ear. Regardless of Kay and Adam's marital status, I am always a fan of Adam and the animals from his veterinary practice being part of the story. Even with more serious aspects in A LETHAL DECEPTION, the Adam and his animals' antics provide welcome humor.
Audiobook narration by Alison Campbell, as always, was wonderful.
Over the past few years I have been reading this series. I have enjoyed every single one of them. It can be hard to find a series of this size that makes you want to keep reading but with every book I can't wait to see what the characters are up to and what will change! Each book could be read as a standalone but you will miss out on so much! But I'm warning you you won't be able to put them down! I really enjoy the relationships between the characters and Kay is one of my absolute favorite female detectives! Such a great addition to the series I can't wait to see what will come next!
Thank you Random Things Tours and Rachel Amphlett for sharing this fast paced unputdownable book with me!
A question I ask myself far to often these days: How is this a 4+ book??
The DI Kate is a basket case, crying for things that should be absolutely second nature by now (it's like an ER doctor that would start crying when they see someone with a broken leg).
The investigation is completely missing, the suspects are treating the policemen abominably and everyone is running around like headless chickens. Things that should have been more than obvious and, if followed up, would have saved all the time in the world, are completely disregarded. These people have no clue whatsoever who is doing what even though the deaths are piling up.
Not sure Im going to finish this series, it is at this point more a waste of time than a pleasant time.
Another excellent book in the Kay Hunter series by Rachel Amphlett. I bought this on early release through a Kickstarter campaign organised by the author (along with a number of short stories) and I wasn't disappointed. It builds on the characters from previous books, but really sets the scene for how a normal police investigation would work, as a whole team effort and not one flashy character acting on their own. Also no over the top plot devices or unrealistic crimes; very down to earth and realistic; an excellent UK based police procedural.
This was such a spot on topic in Amphlett's A Lethal Deception. Sadly, it offers no cure for the countless deaths in the world caused by drugs. However, it does reveal the lengths drug companies, drug growers, etc. will go to turn a profit. The story was well plotted and a cautionary tale for those willing to listen and learn
I found this one harder to get through. Quite slow to get going and couldn't get into the storyline. I enjoy the Kay Hunter series so maybe the next one will feel like the series can get back to its best
Easy read again but a little contrived and convoluted storyline. Three have been killed from drug overdoses of stolen veterinary drugs that were found to be five times lethal dosage for animals and humans.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
a bit disappointed with this one. It just felt like nothing was really much going on, despite the issues they had. I love this series, but this one was a miss for me.
Not the most on-edge read but glad to be back in the world of Kay and Co. Thank God nothing serious happened to Kay's partner, Adam. I was scared for a bit there.😆