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A Kelly Pruett Mystery #3
Deceived
PI Kelly Pruett finally feels like she's coming into her own. With her personal life well on track, a gig uncovering what drove a client's granddaughter underground could be good for business. But after her undercover operation at the homeless shelter reveals rampant drug dealing, she's suddenly kicked off the case... just as another girl goes missing.
Vowing to expose the truth even if it means pro-bono work, Kelly is taken aback when her half-sister helps her hunt down answers in a tent city brimming with distrust. When her investigation doesn't move quickly enough to save a second woman from a vicious murder, Kelly doubles her efforts unwilling to accept defeat.
Vowing to expose the truth even if it means pro-bono work, Kelly is taken aback when her half-sister helps her hunt down answers in a tent city brimming with distrust. When her investigation doesn't move quickly enough to save a second woman from a vicious murder, Kelly doubles her efforts unwilling to accept defeat.
218 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 10, 2022
13 people are currently reading
2537 people want to read
About the author
Mary Keliikoa
8 books787 followersMary Keliikoa is the author of DON'T ASK, DON'T FOLLOW, a domestic thriller, and the award-winning HIDDEN PIECES, DEADLY TIDES and KILLER TRACKS novels in the Misty Pines mystery series. In addition, she is the author of the PI Kelly Pruett mystery series, which includes the Shamus Finalist and Lefty, Agatha and Anthony award-nominated DERAILED for best debut.
A Pacific NW native, she admits to being that person who gets excited when called for jury duty. When not in Washington, you can find Mary with toes in the sand on a Hawaiian beach. But even under the palm trees and blazing sun, she’s plotting her next murder—novel that is.
www.marykeliikoa.com
https://www.amazon.com/author/marykel...
A Pacific NW native, she admits to being that person who gets excited when called for jury duty. When not in Washington, you can find Mary with toes in the sand on a Hawaiian beach. But even under the palm trees and blazing sun, she’s plotting her next murder—novel that is.
www.marykeliikoa.com
https://www.amazon.com/author/marykel...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
April 10, 2022
In Deceived, PI Kelly Pruett finally feels like she's coming into her own. With her personal life well on track, a gig uncovering what drove a client's granddaughter underground could be good for business. But after her undercover operation at the homeless shelter reveals rampant drug dealing, she's suddenly kicked off the case... just as another girl goes missing.
Vowing to expose the truth even if it means pro-bono work, Kelly is taken aback when her half-sister helps her hunt down answers in a tent city brimming with distrust. When her investigation doesn't move quickly enough to save a second woman from a vicious murder, Kelly doubles her efforts unwilling to accept defeat.
Kelly is a well-drawn character whose personal arc has been developing through this series. Deceived hits the mark by combining a newly found understanding of herself and those around her with additional room to grow. The offset with social issues is handled well – without beating the reader over the head, the reader is made to appreciate the nuances of the issues. The pace of the book and its conclusion are also well-handled.
Vowing to expose the truth even if it means pro-bono work, Kelly is taken aback when her half-sister helps her hunt down answers in a tent city brimming with distrust. When her investigation doesn't move quickly enough to save a second woman from a vicious murder, Kelly doubles her efforts unwilling to accept defeat.
Kelly is a well-drawn character whose personal arc has been developing through this series. Deceived hits the mark by combining a newly found understanding of herself and those around her with additional room to grow. The offset with social issues is handled well – without beating the reader over the head, the reader is made to appreciate the nuances of the issues. The pace of the book and its conclusion are also well-handled.
May 10, 2022
TITLE: DECEIVED
AUTHOR: Mary Keliikoa
PUB DATE: 05.10.2022 Pre Order Now
SYNOPSIS: PI Kelly Pruett finally feels like she's coming into her own. With her personal life well on track, a gig uncovering what drove a client's granddaughter underground could be good for business. But after her undercover operation at the homeless shelter reveals rampant drug dealing, she's suddenly kicked off the case... just as another girl goes missing.
Vowing to expose the truth even if it means pro-bono work, Kelly is taken aback when her half-sister helps her hunt down answers in a tent city brimming with distrust. When her investigation doesn't move quickly enough to save a second woman from a vicious murder, Kelly doubles her efforts unwilling to accept defeat.
REVIEW:
This book is a wonderful stand-alone despite being the third book in the series. I loved reading about PI Kelly Pruett’s story, from the challenging cases to her personal back story. Keliikoa certainly delivered a well written murder mystery with heart and relatable characters. Truly enjoyable read.
AUTHOR: Mary Keliikoa
PUB DATE: 05.10.2022 Pre Order Now
SYNOPSIS: PI Kelly Pruett finally feels like she's coming into her own. With her personal life well on track, a gig uncovering what drove a client's granddaughter underground could be good for business. But after her undercover operation at the homeless shelter reveals rampant drug dealing, she's suddenly kicked off the case... just as another girl goes missing.
Vowing to expose the truth even if it means pro-bono work, Kelly is taken aback when her half-sister helps her hunt down answers in a tent city brimming with distrust. When her investigation doesn't move quickly enough to save a second woman from a vicious murder, Kelly doubles her efforts unwilling to accept defeat.
REVIEW:
This book is a wonderful stand-alone despite being the third book in the series. I loved reading about PI Kelly Pruett’s story, from the challenging cases to her personal back story. Keliikoa certainly delivered a well written murder mystery with heart and relatable characters. Truly enjoyable read.
May 16, 2022
Mary Keliikoa, the author of “Deceived, A Kelly Pruett Mystery” has written a suspenseful and intense novel. The genres are mystery and suspense. This is the third book in the series but can be read as a stand-alone. The timeline for this mystery is set in the present and goes to the past when it pertains to the characters or events in the story. The author describes her dramatic characters as complex and complicated. The protagonist, Kelly Pruett, is a single mother, who shares custody of her handicapped daughter. Kelly works as a Private Investigator, after taking over her deceased father’s business. Often, Kelly has found herself in dangerous territory.
I love the way the author describes her characters and the sights and sounds of the city. Kelly is called in to find a client’s granddaughter and finds herself in a homeless shelter, where there are ominous and threatening things going on. There are drugs being used, other missing girls, as well as a few murders. Kelly is clearly headed to a deadly and tragic investigation.
Kelly does have the help of a few new friends, a Police Detective Boyfriend, a half-sister, and a mother-in-law. She also has a kind and lovable daughter and a friendly dog. There are secrets and betrayals. I would recommend this intriguing and captivating mystery.
I love the way the author describes her characters and the sights and sounds of the city. Kelly is called in to find a client’s granddaughter and finds herself in a homeless shelter, where there are ominous and threatening things going on. There are drugs being used, other missing girls, as well as a few murders. Kelly is clearly headed to a deadly and tragic investigation.
Kelly does have the help of a few new friends, a Police Detective Boyfriend, a half-sister, and a mother-in-law. She also has a kind and lovable daughter and a friendly dog. There are secrets and betrayals. I would recommend this intriguing and captivating mystery.
May 12, 2022
PI Kelly Pruett is back and she's on a roll!
In this one Kelly is hired to look into the possible drug dealing taking place at her clients woman's shelter and the disappearance of his granddaughter. After spending a night in the shelter and acquiring pertinent information about the case the client decides he doesn't want her on the case and keys get go. The problem is, Kelly has her teeth into this one and won't let it go. She's determined to see it through and find the missing girl. Along the way, Kelly finds help from unexpected sources as well as reconnecting with her mostly absent sister.
I really enjoyed the further adventures of PI Kelly Pruett. The author does a commendable job of fleshing out Kelly's character as well as the supporting cast. Kelly continues to be a lovable character who you want to root for and care about. While the mystery and investigation takes center stage the subplots are crucial to driving the story forward.
Thank you to the author, publisher and Suzy Approved Book Tours for the gifted copy to read, review and enjoy.
In this one Kelly is hired to look into the possible drug dealing taking place at her clients woman's shelter and the disappearance of his granddaughter. After spending a night in the shelter and acquiring pertinent information about the case the client decides he doesn't want her on the case and keys get go. The problem is, Kelly has her teeth into this one and won't let it go. She's determined to see it through and find the missing girl. Along the way, Kelly finds help from unexpected sources as well as reconnecting with her mostly absent sister.
I really enjoyed the further adventures of PI Kelly Pruett. The author does a commendable job of fleshing out Kelly's character as well as the supporting cast. Kelly continues to be a lovable character who you want to root for and care about. While the mystery and investigation takes center stage the subplots are crucial to driving the story forward.
Thank you to the author, publisher and Suzy Approved Book Tours for the gifted copy to read, review and enjoy.
August 2, 2022
Once again, Kelly Pruett, a P.I. in Portland faces a complicated case taking us along as she uncovers truths about the case and life in general. Really she's been doing pretty good. Relations between her and her ex ok. A solid relationship. And a wonderful daughter. One of her father's best clients has been sending her work, mainly process serving. Now she has a chance to prove her abilities to him by finding his granddaughter who's dealing with addiction. As she goes uncover into the homeless shelter, she discovers much to worry about. Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys a good mystery, especially a P.I. tale. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 27, 2022
Author Mary Keliikoa brings the Kelly Pruett series to an end with DECEIVED, the third and sadly final book in the series.
After solving two big cases, Kelly Pruett is finally feeling like she's finding her way as a private investigator, carrying on her father's legacy. That legacy comes calling when a high-powered lawyer that her father used to do work for comes calling.
He needs her to dig into a shelter he founded in the name of his late sister. There are rumors that there are drugs being sold out of the shelter. But his granddaughter, who had been staying at the shelter after an apparent relapse has disappeared as well. But the lawyer doesn't want Kelly looking for her, just focusing on finding out who is dealing the drugs so he can clean house.
It doesn't take long for Kelly to discover the drug connection but before she can go any further with the investigation, she's fired from the case. But having seen the plight of the women in the shelter, she's compelled to keep investigating. She starts looking for Amber as well.
Those professional instincts Kelly's been honing start leading her into a lot of different directions and she soon discovers that there is a lot more going on connected to the shelter than "simple" drug dealing. But when bodies start dropping, Kelly knows a killer is on to her investigation and must navigate the tricky paths ahead of her. She needs to know what happened to Amber and find out just who killed the victims that keep popping up but can Kelly do it without becoming the next target for the killer?
I liked this series a lot and DECEIVED is no exception. The way Keliikoa charts Kelly's growing skill as an investigator while giving clear indications that she still has a way to go was nice. Along the way in this story she goes a ways towards at least shining a light on the plight of homeless women and the negative way drugs affect their options. The characters introduced for the purpose of DECEIVED's plot are ones that you want to get to know. When you factor in Kelly's somewhat less settled personal life subplot, you have a richly textured narrative that will leave you wishing there were more books to come in the series. Smartly, Keliikoa ties up a lot of the subplots to the story and gives you satisfying ending that sees Kelly Pruett making even more definitive strides towards becoming her own kind of investigator while giving readers a nicely drawn main mystery to keep you waiting with baited breath to see what's coming next.
After solving two big cases, Kelly Pruett is finally feeling like she's finding her way as a private investigator, carrying on her father's legacy. That legacy comes calling when a high-powered lawyer that her father used to do work for comes calling.
He needs her to dig into a shelter he founded in the name of his late sister. There are rumors that there are drugs being sold out of the shelter. But his granddaughter, who had been staying at the shelter after an apparent relapse has disappeared as well. But the lawyer doesn't want Kelly looking for her, just focusing on finding out who is dealing the drugs so he can clean house.
It doesn't take long for Kelly to discover the drug connection but before she can go any further with the investigation, she's fired from the case. But having seen the plight of the women in the shelter, she's compelled to keep investigating. She starts looking for Amber as well.
Those professional instincts Kelly's been honing start leading her into a lot of different directions and she soon discovers that there is a lot more going on connected to the shelter than "simple" drug dealing. But when bodies start dropping, Kelly knows a killer is on to her investigation and must navigate the tricky paths ahead of her. She needs to know what happened to Amber and find out just who killed the victims that keep popping up but can Kelly do it without becoming the next target for the killer?
I liked this series a lot and DECEIVED is no exception. The way Keliikoa charts Kelly's growing skill as an investigator while giving clear indications that she still has a way to go was nice. Along the way in this story she goes a ways towards at least shining a light on the plight of homeless women and the negative way drugs affect their options. The characters introduced for the purpose of DECEIVED's plot are ones that you want to get to know. When you factor in Kelly's somewhat less settled personal life subplot, you have a richly textured narrative that will leave you wishing there were more books to come in the series. Smartly, Keliikoa ties up a lot of the subplots to the story and gives you satisfying ending that sees Kelly Pruett making even more definitive strides towards becoming her own kind of investigator while giving readers a nicely drawn main mystery to keep you waiting with baited breath to see what's coming next.
April 17, 2024
This book kept me at the edge of my seat. The main character PI Kelly Pruitt is tough yet vulnerable!! Also a Mom of a deaf daughter and has a floppy ear dog named Floyd !! She is divorced but luckily has “Hot Stuff” for a boyfriend . I learned a lot about the homeless situation and drug addiction and abuse. She is like a dog with a bone . She doesn’t give up on any case . Right now she’s working on disappearance of a clients granddaughter. Going undercover at a homeless shelter. Missing young women, drugs and murder. You will definitely not be able to put this book down until the last page !! Enjoy !!!
May 12, 2022
Deceived is the third book in the Kelly Pruett Mystery series, and I really think it's my favorite! I adored the prior two books, so that's saying a lot! In Deceived, PI Kelly Pruett is hired by a former client of her dad's. The client's granddaughter is in hiding because she's afraid of something sketchy going on at a homeless shelter for women.
Kelly is such a strong character. She's grown so much throughout the series. In spite of the hardships she's endured, Kelly rises above them. Though you can read Deceived on its own, in order to really appreciate Kelly and how her relationships change, it's better to read them in order.
I think that one reason this is my favorite is how Keliikoa highlights the homeless community, showing how strong bonds form among groups and how protective they are of each other. This book kept me turning the pages and reading late until the night! I highly recommend Deceived as well as the prior two books to all mystery lovers!
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Kelly is such a strong character. She's grown so much throughout the series. In spite of the hardships she's endured, Kelly rises above them. Though you can read Deceived on its own, in order to really appreciate Kelly and how her relationships change, it's better to read them in order.
I think that one reason this is my favorite is how Keliikoa highlights the homeless community, showing how strong bonds form among groups and how protective they are of each other. This book kept me turning the pages and reading late until the night! I highly recommend Deceived as well as the prior two books to all mystery lovers!
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May 12, 2022
Great to hang out with PI Kelly Pruett in this third book of the Kelly Pruett Mysteries. This time Kelly goes undercover at a homeless shelter. Keliikoa nails life on the streets in Portland and manages to round out the despair with Kelly's personal life - raising a special needs daughter, parenting with her ex and dealing with a sometimes intrusive mother-in-law while navigating a new relationship. A quick read will keep you turning pages until reaching the satisfying, twisty, conclusion.
May 6, 2022
I’ve read and enjoyed all the books in this mystery series featuring Portland Private Investigator Kelley Pruett. I love the way this book has not only an excellent mystery it also brings to the forefront the homeless population.
DECEIVED has a well developed mystery that kept me on my toes for the entire read. I really enjoyed all of the characters in this book both the new and the returners from the other books in this series.
This book does a nice job of also spotlighting the importance of family. It highlights perfectly that nontraditional families can function for the good of all.
Kelley loves her daughter, her dog, and peanut butter.
In this book, Kelley has been hired to look into potential drug dealings in a women’s homeless shelter that has caused the founder’s granddaughter to go into hiding.
Even though Kelley completes the task she was hired to do she feels like there is more going on. When another young woman goes missing, Kelley decides to go out on her own to find answers.
As Kelley searches for the truth the body count rises. Can Kelley find the answers and keep all those around her safe?
DECEIVED has a well developed mystery that kept me on my toes for the entire read. I really enjoyed all of the characters in this book both the new and the returners from the other books in this series.
This book does a nice job of also spotlighting the importance of family. It highlights perfectly that nontraditional families can function for the good of all.
Kelley loves her daughter, her dog, and peanut butter.
In this book, Kelley has been hired to look into potential drug dealings in a women’s homeless shelter that has caused the founder’s granddaughter to go into hiding.
Even though Kelley completes the task she was hired to do she feels like there is more going on. When another young woman goes missing, Kelley decides to go out on her own to find answers.
As Kelley searches for the truth the body count rises. Can Kelley find the answers and keep all those around her safe?
Currently reading
March 7, 2022COMING MAY 10, 2022!
DECEIVED is the third book in the Kelly Pruett mystery series, and was such a fun book to write! Kelly Pruett is finally the PI she believes would make her father proud, and a long-time firm client is taking her skills seriously when he asks her to go undercover in a homeless shelter where his granddaughter was last seen. As you would imagine, a missing teenager has Kelly's mama bear tendencies in overdrive. Of course the path will not be easy--drugs, deception and murder are all around her--but Kelly is up for the challenge.
David Heska Wanbli Weiden, Anthony and Thriller Award-winning author of Winter Counts -- recently read DECEIVED and said this about it:
“This mystery hits all the right notes! In the third book of the series, Kelly Pruett’s undercover investigation of a homeless shelter leads to missing girls, drug dealing, and murder. Heartfelt characters and a twisting and turning plot kept me turning the pages. Another winner from Mary Keliikoa.”
I hope you'll check it out and see if you agree!
www.marykeliikoa.com
DECEIVED is the third book in the Kelly Pruett mystery series, and was such a fun book to write! Kelly Pruett is finally the PI she believes would make her father proud, and a long-time firm client is taking her skills seriously when he asks her to go undercover in a homeless shelter where his granddaughter was last seen. As you would imagine, a missing teenager has Kelly's mama bear tendencies in overdrive. Of course the path will not be easy--drugs, deception and murder are all around her--but Kelly is up for the challenge.
David Heska Wanbli Weiden, Anthony and Thriller Award-winning author of Winter Counts -- recently read DECEIVED and said this about it:
“This mystery hits all the right notes! In the third book of the series, Kelly Pruett’s undercover investigation of a homeless shelter leads to missing girls, drug dealing, and murder. Heartfelt characters and a twisting and turning plot kept me turning the pages. Another winner from Mary Keliikoa.”
I hope you'll check it out and see if you agree!
www.marykeliikoa.com
May 9, 2022
Deceived is the third book in the PI Kelly Pruett series. Kelly has become a more developed character as the series progresses. This can be read as a stand alone, but I recommend starting with the first book, Derailed, followed by Denied, to get the full scope of Kelly's growth.
Here Kelly is hired to look into a case of a granddaughter going into hiding. Kelly goes undercover in a homeless shelter. She finds rampant drug dealing and other shady activities. No sooner does she discover these illegal activities, she is fired. Not long after a young woman goes missing. Kelley decides to investigate regardless, and with the help of her half-sister, Hannah, goes to a homeless tent city, undercover.
This is a quick read that keeps the reader engaged. It is fast paced and at 218 pages perfect for an afternoon mystery read. You will love Kelly's dog, Floyd, and her daughter (who is deaf), Mitz.
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC. The review is my own.
Here Kelly is hired to look into a case of a granddaughter going into hiding. Kelly goes undercover in a homeless shelter. She finds rampant drug dealing and other shady activities. No sooner does she discover these illegal activities, she is fired. Not long after a young woman goes missing. Kelley decides to investigate regardless, and with the help of her half-sister, Hannah, goes to a homeless tent city, undercover.
This is a quick read that keeps the reader engaged. It is fast paced and at 218 pages perfect for an afternoon mystery read. You will love Kelly's dog, Floyd, and her daughter (who is deaf), Mitz.
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC. The review is my own.
May 23, 2022
Deceived is book 3 in the Kelly Pruett Mystery Series and it was even better than I’d hoped it could be given it’s one of my favorites! This latest mystery has Kelly going undercover into a homeless shelter as well as looking for a mission teen. While Kelly has grown as a character so has her detective skills and this mystery may lead her into harms way in her pursuit for answers. This suspense and emotional filled novel kept me entertained right until it’s end. I loved this book! I’d highly recommend it for anyone who loves a good mystery. While it can easily be read as a standalone I promise this is a binge worthy series so I’d recommend reading them all! I look forward to reading many more books in this series!
February 16, 2022
An action-packed thriller, Deceived is filled with interesting well-crafted characters you will want to get to know.
Especially Kelly as she takes on a case at a homeless shelter only to find there is a killer on the loose.
Great story I could not put down until the very end.
Especially Kelly as she takes on a case at a homeless shelter only to find there is a killer on the loose.
Great story I could not put down until the very end.
January 26, 2022
I've loved everything Mary Keliikoa has written so far. I can't wait for this to come out!!
April 5, 2022
DECEIVED (A Kelly Pruett Mystery #3) by Mary Keliikoa will be published on May 10th 2022 by Camel Press.
Private Investigator Kelly Pruett's latest job takes her undercover at a women's homeless shelter. After discovering rampant drug dealing in both the shelter and a nearby clinic, Kelly's client kicks her off the case before she has a chance to search for a missing teenager who had previously stayed at the shelter. With dead bodies piling up and other teenagers disappearing, Kelly is determined to stick with the case until she puts a stop to the drug ring and brings the missing teenagers home—even if doing so puts her own life at risk.
DECEIVED is a great addition to the Kelly Pruett Mystery series. The novel was full of twists. Kelly continues to improve at her job of private investigating as she takes on new cases, learns new skills, and faces different challenges. In DECEIVED, Kelly is forced to face many of her preconceived ideas and overcome some of her faults. She really grows as a person in this novel—both as an investigator but as a mom/ex-wife/friend/sister/daughter-in-law/girlfriend/etc. I can't wait to see what happens next with Kelly and the rest of the main characters.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
Private Investigator Kelly Pruett's latest job takes her undercover at a women's homeless shelter. After discovering rampant drug dealing in both the shelter and a nearby clinic, Kelly's client kicks her off the case before she has a chance to search for a missing teenager who had previously stayed at the shelter. With dead bodies piling up and other teenagers disappearing, Kelly is determined to stick with the case until she puts a stop to the drug ring and brings the missing teenagers home—even if doing so puts her own life at risk.
DECEIVED is a great addition to the Kelly Pruett Mystery series. The novel was full of twists. Kelly continues to improve at her job of private investigating as she takes on new cases, learns new skills, and faces different challenges. In DECEIVED, Kelly is forced to face many of her preconceived ideas and overcome some of her faults. She really grows as a person in this novel—both as an investigator but as a mom/ex-wife/friend/sister/daughter-in-law/girlfriend/etc. I can't wait to see what happens next with Kelly and the rest of the main characters.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
May 19, 2022
This is book three in the Kelly Pruett Mystery series. This time Kelly is investigating a missing girl. This takes Kelly into the darkness of homeless shelters. While undercover she finds drug dealing and is taken off the case. When another girl goes missing Kelly won't be dismissed. She digs her boots in determined to find answers. I loved all the books in this series. I like the topics and I really like Kelly. The stories feel so real and they keep you hooked. This can be read as a stand alone but I highly recommend this series. You won't be disappointed.
Dawnny Ruby
Novels N Latte
Hudson Valley NY
Dawnny Ruby
Novels N Latte
Hudson Valley NY
May 10, 2022
Mary Keliikoa has written another great Kelly Pruett mystery!!! Kelly is one of my favorites, and her mysteries just keep getting better. She's out to prove herself as a private investigator, and she has the spirit as well as the drive to do it. I love how she takes her dog along with her. She's still trying to balance life co parenting with her ex and living next door to her ex mother in law. When she is on a case, though, she goes full force. Kelly Pruett is a character women could look up to, and Mary Keliikoa writes her character so perfectly.
February 26, 2023
Mary… we need more Kelly. ❤️
May 5, 2022
This book packs so much into a short novel. It's technically the third in a mystery series, but I haven't read the first two books, and I didn't feel lost at all jumping into this one. Maybe I would have already known some of the characters or the backstory, but it can absolutely be read as a standalone. Kelly is a private investigator who goes undercover in a shelter. She knows she's going into a dangerous situation, but she doesn't fully know what she's getting herself into. So this book tackles homelessness, shelters, and the drug trade. Her daughter, Mitz, was born deaf and communicates via sign language, but she's treated as any other character would be, which I love. There's also a sweet hound dog named Floyd, lots of dialogue, and short chapters. Overall, it's an interesting mystery that dives into some murky waters, but isn't too gory or over the top. It had a lot of very believable aspects as well, which made me really sad to think about. There are definitely thriller-type elements as well, but I would agree with the classification on the back of the book that this is more of a solid mystery. Thank you so much to Books Forward for my Advanced Readers Copy! This one publishes on May 10, so you have plenty of time to preorder!
August 20, 2022
The third Kelly Pruett mystery, and perhaps the best. I like that the author has created three very different stories for the first three books in the series. Hopefully there will be more. I think that it is a great skill to be able to create a complex crime story, with equally complex personal background, and still make it readable and deliver it in 200-odd pages.
In this story, Kelly, now much more grounded in what had been her father's detective agency, is asked to look for a missing granddaughter. She was last heard of in a homeless shelter, so Kelly goes undercover. Lots of leads ensue, but the initial expectation (drug distribution at the homeless shelter) is just the tip of the iceberg, and Kelly is once again sticking her nose into dangerous territory, to the consternation of her family and friends.
The book is a good page-turner, and there are nice twists to make it just enough unpredictable. As I said, I think this is the best Kelly Pruett to date. Let's hope there are more.
In this story, Kelly, now much more grounded in what had been her father's detective agency, is asked to look for a missing granddaughter. She was last heard of in a homeless shelter, so Kelly goes undercover. Lots of leads ensue, but the initial expectation (drug distribution at the homeless shelter) is just the tip of the iceberg, and Kelly is once again sticking her nose into dangerous territory, to the consternation of her family and friends.
The book is a good page-turner, and there are nice twists to make it just enough unpredictable. As I said, I think this is the best Kelly Pruett to date. Let's hope there are more.
May 23, 2022
After reading 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐊𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐢𝐤𝐨𝐚’s 𝑫𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒊𝒍𝒆𝒅 & 𝑫𝒆𝒏𝒊𝒆𝒅,I knew I wanted to read 𝑫𝒆𝒄𝒆𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒅 as soon as I learned of it’s May 10th, 2022 release. I loved 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐊𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐢𝐤𝐨𝐚'𝐬 character Kelly Pruett and following her on her puzzle solving thrills in the first books, so I knew this one wouldn’t disappoint me!
And I was right! It was another roller coaster ride of drug deals where there shouldn’t be drug deals, women who have gone missing, amazing characters and clues that make you feel like you are on the hunt right along side Kelly Pruett.
𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐊𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐢𝐤𝐨𝐚 is a fabulous author, and one who has worked her way on to my favorites list. She blends crime and suspense in the perfect way! Her characters are never dull and she keeps you hooked on her 4⭐️ reads until the very end. I definitely recommend this one!
* I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Author/Publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
And I was right! It was another roller coaster ride of drug deals where there shouldn’t be drug deals, women who have gone missing, amazing characters and clues that make you feel like you are on the hunt right along side Kelly Pruett.
𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐊𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐢𝐤𝐨𝐚 is a fabulous author, and one who has worked her way on to my favorites list. She blends crime and suspense in the perfect way! Her characters are never dull and she keeps you hooked on her 4⭐️ reads until the very end. I definitely recommend this one!
* I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Author/Publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
July 23, 2022
*I received a free copy of this book which I voluntarily chose to write an honest review for.
This is a great addition to this fun PI cozy series. Kelly is starting to get comfy with her job and new life she has made for herself. She is excited to tackle a case she is given tracking down a client's granddaughter after she recently disappeared underground and now no one can find her. Kelly goes undercover at a homeless shelter of all places where she definitely sticks out no matter how much she tries. When the danger rises she is kicked off of the case but by then she is invested in what is actually happening so she keeps going anyway. The clues take her all over the place keeping both her and the reader guessing creating quite the enjoyable read as it all plays out. Great characters and a flowing story line will keep you reading until the very end. I really liked it so I give it 4/5 stars.
This is a great addition to this fun PI cozy series. Kelly is starting to get comfy with her job and new life she has made for herself. She is excited to tackle a case she is given tracking down a client's granddaughter after she recently disappeared underground and now no one can find her. Kelly goes undercover at a homeless shelter of all places where she definitely sticks out no matter how much she tries. When the danger rises she is kicked off of the case but by then she is invested in what is actually happening so she keeps going anyway. The clues take her all over the place keeping both her and the reader guessing creating quite the enjoyable read as it all plays out. Great characters and a flowing story line will keep you reading until the very end. I really liked it so I give it 4/5 stars.
April 5, 2022
Deceived by Mary Keliikoa
This is a Kelly Pruett mystery. Denied was the first Kelly Pruett mystery I read. In that review I lamented the often-insane risks that Kelly, as a PI, takes. I also noted there was no sexism involved. I would lament the same risks taken by anyone with common sense. Kelly is asked to investigate the disappearance of Amber, the granddaughter of a frequent client.
The investigation leads to drug sales, drug abuse, abuse of women, murder, arson and more. Kelly’s boyfriend, Kyle, proved a disappointment in his inability to maintain skepticism. Kelly shows compassion and finally recognizes that her risky behavior is due to her trying to prove to her dead father that she measures up.
It was a good plot with plenty of speed.
I recommend the book.
This is a Kelly Pruett mystery. Denied was the first Kelly Pruett mystery I read. In that review I lamented the often-insane risks that Kelly, as a PI, takes. I also noted there was no sexism involved. I would lament the same risks taken by anyone with common sense. Kelly is asked to investigate the disappearance of Amber, the granddaughter of a frequent client.
The investigation leads to drug sales, drug abuse, abuse of women, murder, arson and more. Kelly’s boyfriend, Kyle, proved a disappointment in his inability to maintain skepticism. Kelly shows compassion and finally recognizes that her risky behavior is due to her trying to prove to her dead father that she measures up.
It was a good plot with plenty of speed.
I recommend the book.
July 31, 2022
I am loving this series and so glad to see PI Kelly Pruett back in action. With two cases under her belt she is beginging to find her feet in the world of Private Investigation, and when she gets a call from one of her father old contacts to find his missing granddaughter it opens up a whole new can of worms for Kelly, which sees her having to go undercover in a homeless shelter. When girls form the shelter start to go missing and with a warning from her client to back of now, Kelly can't get let it go - she is getting in too deep to quit now.
Is the shelter a front for a drug ring or does it go so much deeper? Can Kelly find the granddaughter before it is too late? You will have to read this book to find out and I can tell you will not be disappointed!
Another 5 star read from Ms Keliikoa!
Is the shelter a front for a drug ring or does it go so much deeper? Can Kelly find the granddaughter before it is too late? You will have to read this book to find out and I can tell you will not be disappointed!
Another 5 star read from Ms Keliikoa!
April 30, 2022
This was my first book by this author, and I really enjoyed her writing! This is the third book in the Kelly Pruett mystery series, but it can completely be read as a standalone.
I really enjoyed Kelly. She's a strong, smart woman! She had a great character arc throughout this story, and I want to go back and read the first two books now. I'd like to see where her characters started and how far she's come!
The murder mystery plot in this story was fast paced. I liked that we focus on the mystery, but also on Kelly's personal life as well. It was a well-balanced story, and I didn't want to walk away from the characters at the end!
I was provided a gifted copy of this book for free. I am leaving my review voluntarily.
I really enjoyed Kelly. She's a strong, smart woman! She had a great character arc throughout this story, and I want to go back and read the first two books now. I'd like to see where her characters started and how far she's come!
The murder mystery plot in this story was fast paced. I liked that we focus on the mystery, but also on Kelly's personal life as well. It was a well-balanced story, and I didn't want to walk away from the characters at the end!
I was provided a gifted copy of this book for free. I am leaving my review voluntarily.
October 30, 2024
A wonderful and warm lady detective story with PI Kelly exploring her family and all its parts, good and bad. As she perilously enters the homeless scene she is quickly embroiled and heart broken by turns as the situation many women find themselves in when homeless. Because of her heart she dives into her case consistently turning up clues she didn't want to know but is compelled to follow. The writer shows the true life of a homeless teen, a shattered wife and the corruption to constantly take advantage of these people for profit. With her trusty dog, and half-sister, she becomes a thorn in the side of the wrong people. Even to the harrowing end you can't help but cheer her on to the final shocking discovery; how her mother truly died. I enjoyed the read and recommend it.
March 19, 2022
Full disclosure, this is my first book the series, but I will be going back and reading the other two! Kelly Pruitt is one badass of a PI, but that doesn’t mean she doesn’t also have a very soft, human side to her. As she tries to figure out what happened to missing homeless girls, we also get to see her figuring out what it means to be a good mom, a friend, a partner, and also staying true to herself. The author weaves a fast paced story that kept me turning the pages wanting to know what happened next, while also growing close to Kelly. I love a book where I feel like I am friends with the main character! Anyway, be sure to pick up this book. Be sure to pick up the whole series!
October 6, 2023
for PI Kelly Pruett, one thing leads to another and she finds herself neck deep in not only the disappearance of a teen, but a series of murders. Will she be next? Someone has been in her house who shouldn't have been and the missing girl is still... missing. Or is she dead?
Fortunately for Kelly, her half-sister turns into a handy sleuth who ends up having Kelly's back when she's most needed. But the head of the detectives thinks Kelly may have something to do with the murders that have occurred, and she does--because she knows something he doesn't--but she doesn't want to end up arrested, at least not before finding that missing teen. And time is running out for her.
Fortunately for Kelly, her half-sister turns into a handy sleuth who ends up having Kelly's back when she's most needed. But the head of the detectives thinks Kelly may have something to do with the murders that have occurred, and she does--because she knows something he doesn't--but she doesn't want to end up arrested, at least not before finding that missing teen. And time is running out for her.
May 31, 2022
I think this one is my favorite in the series! To see Kelly’s growth from the first 2 books with her family relationships really makes this one special! This book touches on some heavy topics, but with a light hand. I say that in a positive way because drugs, homelessness, and broken relationships are so rampant in the world today, but the author did a great job of writing what I would consider a #cozymystery while bringing attention to a lot of problems we face today.
Thank you for my gifted copy in exchange for an honest review
Thank you for my gifted copy in exchange for an honest review
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