What do you think?
Rate this book
the Child Collector #1
Deceived
After working the past five years as a private investigator, former law enforcement officer, Shae Sawyer gets the call that she’s been waiting for.Her longtime acquaintance and ex brother in blue, Detective Cam Murphy has a case and a pair of victims unlike anything he’s ever seen.Despite the horror of seeing a child ripped from his mother’s womb, Shae has seen it before, and knows it can only mean one thing, the Baby Thief is back and on the prowl.Knowing that pregnant girls with no place to go aren’t safe as long as the killer is still out there, Shae will partner with Cam with hopes that they can solve the case before the Baby Thief chooses another victim.
162 pages, Paperback
Published December 1, 2020
202 people are currently reading
256 people want to read
About the author
W.L. Knightly
121 books366 followersWL Knightly is a thriller/murder mystery co-writing pen name for two USA Today Best Selling Authors. "W" when not writing can be found dealing in Antique Jewelry and hanging out with her awesome hubby and three kids. And "L" is a full-time writer that lives near Nashville, TN and spends her time cooking, hanging out with her hubs and 3 kiddos, or wrangling new ideas as they float by!
Their love of a good mystery novel caused them to combine forces and go after their dream of telling stories that sent a shiver down your spine. I'm thinking they figured it out!
These two friends met years ago when they both started writing and publishing in various young adult genres and needed a critique partner.
The rest is history...They'd love for you to join the fun!
Website-http://thezodiackillerseries.com/
Facebook-https://www.facebook.com/wlknightlyau...
Insiders Group- https://dl.bookfunnel.com/j1rryhvu53
Their love of a good mystery novel caused them to combine forces and go after their dream of telling stories that sent a shiver down your spine. I'm thinking they figured it out!
These two friends met years ago when they both started writing and publishing in various young adult genres and needed a critique partner.
The rest is history...They'd love for you to join the fun!
Website-http://thezodiackillerseries.com/
Facebook-https://www.facebook.com/wlknightlyau...
Insiders Group- https://dl.bookfunnel.com/j1rryhvu53
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
February 10, 2024
I went into this expecting (hoping) this wouldn't be another series I'd actually want to finish. I hadn't loved the writing duo that is W.L. Knightly in Guilty Crime and haven't read their work since (2019 or 2020 I think).
Instead, Deceived grabbed me from the first page and didn't let go.
I can't say too much about the characters without giving things away. I wasn't sure I liked the POV setup at first, and knowing immediately who the characters were, but it led to a fascinating dynamic that gave far more perspective on every aspect of the crime and the criminal.
The suspense in this felt off to me at first, like W.L. Knightly was trying too hard. But it grew on me. The different POVs helped with that.
Again, it was a fascinating story. I didn't want to start another series I'd have to spend money on, but I really want to continue this now that I have.
Instead, Deceived grabbed me from the first page and didn't let go.
I can't say too much about the characters without giving things away. I wasn't sure I liked the POV setup at first, and knowing immediately who the characters were, but it led to a fascinating dynamic that gave far more perspective on every aspect of the crime and the criminal.
The suspense in this felt off to me at first, like W.L. Knightly was trying too hard. But it grew on me. The different POVs helped with that.
Again, it was a fascinating story. I didn't want to start another series I'd have to spend money on, but I really want to continue this now that I have.
January 31, 2020
I absolutely loved this book and read it all in one go. I couldnt put it down. The characters were all fleshed out really well and the storyline flowed well.
The storyline is very different to what i have read before.
Shae is a private investigator who left the FBI 5 years ago after getting obsessed over a heartbreaking and very difficult case.
She received a call from a friend, Detective Cam Murphy in the FBI requesting some help in a case where a young girl’s body had been found with her dead baby. This gruesome discovery can only mean one thing that the chid thief is back!!
The story is told from various perspectives which I really liked.
What makes this book different to the other series that this author has written is that all the players are identified more or less immediately. The pasts of the people involved and why they do what they do is ecplained as you get further into the story.
I think I may know who Gemma will turn out to be later in the series. If what i suspect is true then that would be a fabulous twist.
Cam and Shae have a fabulous flirty relationship and love their witty remarks to each other.
The story moves at a fast pace and is written really well. My interest was held from the first page. I felt so frustrated and annoyed to be at the end of the book. I wanted to continue to read the story to see what happens next. I really want the next book right now.
I really hope we get the next book asap.
I received an ARC from the author. I voluntarily review this book. This is my honest review.
The storyline is very different to what i have read before.
Shae is a private investigator who left the FBI 5 years ago after getting obsessed over a heartbreaking and very difficult case.
She received a call from a friend, Detective Cam Murphy in the FBI requesting some help in a case where a young girl’s body had been found with her dead baby. This gruesome discovery can only mean one thing that the chid thief is back!!
The story is told from various perspectives which I really liked.
What makes this book different to the other series that this author has written is that all the players are identified more or less immediately. The pasts of the people involved and why they do what they do is ecplained as you get further into the story.
I think I may know who Gemma will turn out to be later in the series. If what i suspect is true then that would be a fabulous twist.
Cam and Shae have a fabulous flirty relationship and love their witty remarks to each other.
The story moves at a fast pace and is written really well. My interest was held from the first page. I felt so frustrated and annoyed to be at the end of the book. I wanted to continue to read the story to see what happens next. I really want the next book right now.
I really hope we get the next book asap.
I received an ARC from the author. I voluntarily review this book. This is my honest review.
February 16, 2020
Author : WL Knightly
Deceived (The Child Collector Series Book 1)
5 🌠🌠🌠🌠🌠
Description :
After working the past five years as a private investigator, former law enforcement officer, Shae Sawyer gets the call that she’s been waiting for.Her longtime acquaintance and ex brother in blue, Detective Cam Murphy has a case and a pair of victims unlike anything he’s ever seen.Despite the horror of seeing a child ripped from his mother’s womb, Shae has seen it before, and knows it can only mean one thing, the Baby Thief is back and on the prowl. Knowing that pregnant girls with no place to go aren’t safe as long as the killer is still out there, Shae will partner with Cam with hopes that they can solve the case before the Baby Thief chooses another victim.
📗 MY REVIEW 📗
This was a Great start to this new series. I'm very excited to see just where the authors take us.
All of the characters are well developed and so easy to connect with. Each scene was described so well that it was as if I was picked up and transported to right there . Yes the book is dark and very bad things happen. However, she does not write about it in such graphic detail that makes you feel sick. This story is unusual and very twisted. I must say I have never read anything like it. It will stay with me for a very long time. Book 1 left with such a cliffhanger . Why ??? Why ???? I need book 2 now !!!
This is my first time reading anything by this author and it will not be the last. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves gripping psychological thrillers.
Deceived (The Child Collector Series Book 1)
5 🌠🌠🌠🌠🌠
Description :
After working the past five years as a private investigator, former law enforcement officer, Shae Sawyer gets the call that she’s been waiting for.Her longtime acquaintance and ex brother in blue, Detective Cam Murphy has a case and a pair of victims unlike anything he’s ever seen.Despite the horror of seeing a child ripped from his mother’s womb, Shae has seen it before, and knows it can only mean one thing, the Baby Thief is back and on the prowl. Knowing that pregnant girls with no place to go aren’t safe as long as the killer is still out there, Shae will partner with Cam with hopes that they can solve the case before the Baby Thief chooses another victim.
📗 MY REVIEW 📗
This was a Great start to this new series. I'm very excited to see just where the authors take us.
All of the characters are well developed and so easy to connect with. Each scene was described so well that it was as if I was picked up and transported to right there . Yes the book is dark and very bad things happen. However, she does not write about it in such graphic detail that makes you feel sick. This story is unusual and very twisted. I must say I have never read anything like it. It will stay with me for a very long time. Book 1 left with such a cliffhanger . Why ??? Why ???? I need book 2 now !!!
This is my first time reading anything by this author and it will not be the last. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves gripping psychological thrillers.
January 30, 2020
After working the past five years as a private investigator, former law enforcement officer, Shae Sawyer gets the call that she’s been waiting for.
Her longtime acquaintance and ex brother in blue, Detective Cam Murphy has a case and a pair of victims unlike anything he’s ever seen.
Despite the horror of seeing a child ripped from his mother’s womb, Shae has seen it before, and knows it can only mean one thing, the Baby Thief is back and on the prowl.
Knowing that pregnant girls with no place to go aren’t safe as long as the killer is still out there, Shae will partner with Cam with hopes that they can solve the case before the Baby Thief chooses another victim.
This is an absolutely amazing start to this wonderful new series!!!
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believeable.
Great suspense and action with that adds so much to the story.
Such a thrilling read that I couldn't put it down.
Can't wait to read more of these.
Recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
Her longtime acquaintance and ex brother in blue, Detective Cam Murphy has a case and a pair of victims unlike anything he’s ever seen.
Despite the horror of seeing a child ripped from his mother’s womb, Shae has seen it before, and knows it can only mean one thing, the Baby Thief is back and on the prowl.
Knowing that pregnant girls with no place to go aren’t safe as long as the killer is still out there, Shae will partner with Cam with hopes that they can solve the case before the Baby Thief chooses another victim.
This is an absolutely amazing start to this wonderful new series!!!
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believeable.
Great suspense and action with that adds so much to the story.
Such a thrilling read that I couldn't put it down.
Can't wait to read more of these.
Recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
January 30, 2020
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of "DECEIVED" WL Knightly is a very creative writer she knows how to keep you on edge throughout the story it's full of intrigue, suspense, serial killer twists that have glued to the pages.
Shae Sawyer use to be in law enforcement but quit because of a case "The Baby Theif" now she's a PI she gets a call from Detective Cameron Murphy about a case when she finds out its the same as the one she was on when she quit the force she agreed to help him.
There's a woman who takes in pregnant girls until it's their time she takes their babies and kills them this is the case Cameron calls Shae to help with there's been another victim both girl and baby dead.
This is another great beginning to a terrific knew series and the characters are very well developed and pull you right in one last victim survives will Shae and Mackenzie find "The Baby Theif" in time to get her baby boy back.
So well written a definite must have series you don't want to miss I so can't wait for the next book in this series. AWESOME READ!!!!
Shae Sawyer use to be in law enforcement but quit because of a case "The Baby Theif" now she's a PI she gets a call from Detective Cameron Murphy about a case when she finds out its the same as the one she was on when she quit the force she agreed to help him.
There's a woman who takes in pregnant girls until it's their time she takes their babies and kills them this is the case Cameron calls Shae to help with there's been another victim both girl and baby dead.
This is another great beginning to a terrific knew series and the characters are very well developed and pull you right in one last victim survives will Shae and Mackenzie find "The Baby Theif" in time to get her baby boy back.
So well written a definite must have series you don't want to miss I so can't wait for the next book in this series. AWESOME READ!!!!
January 30, 2020
Starts out with a surprise and ends the same way
Shae, a private investigator, gets a call from Cam, a police detective, about an open case from when she was on the police force. As the story progresses we get a glimpse of the motive, more than a few new questions are raised beyond the case, and unraveling it all could become a wild goose chase. W.L. Knightly’s newest series starts out with a surprise and ends the same way. The flirty banter, the witty quips, and the secrets kept and revealed draw the reader in from the beginning. I am looking forward to seeing this mystery can take on a life of its own.
I received a free copy of the book from the author. I had the opportunity to review or not.
Shae, a private investigator, gets a call from Cam, a police detective, about an open case from when she was on the police force. As the story progresses we get a glimpse of the motive, more than a few new questions are raised beyond the case, and unraveling it all could become a wild goose chase. W.L. Knightly’s newest series starts out with a surprise and ends the same way. The flirty banter, the witty quips, and the secrets kept and revealed draw the reader in from the beginning. I am looking forward to seeing this mystery can take on a life of its own.
I received a free copy of the book from the author. I had the opportunity to review or not.
February 5, 2020
I'm thrilled that I was given the first book in WL Knightly's new series.
Shae is a former cop who is now a private investigator. She has a case from her past that she needs to solve - the baby killer.
Cam is a detective who calls on Shae to help him with the possible latest victim of the killer.
This book lays a great foundation for who is doing this - Leah - and why - she was abused and can't have kids. But there is so much more to thus story.
You're getting Leah's backstory and are just scratching the surface of Shae's backstory.
This book will draw you in. I've made a few assumptions and I can't wait until book two to see if I'm correct.
Read the book don't let the title put you off.
I was given this book for an honest voluntary review
Shae is a former cop who is now a private investigator. She has a case from her past that she needs to solve - the baby killer.
Cam is a detective who calls on Shae to help him with the possible latest victim of the killer.
This book lays a great foundation for who is doing this - Leah - and why - she was abused and can't have kids. But there is so much more to thus story.
You're getting Leah's backstory and are just scratching the surface of Shae's backstory.
This book will draw you in. I've made a few assumptions and I can't wait until book two to see if I'm correct.
Read the book don't let the title put you off.
I was given this book for an honest voluntary review
January 30, 2020
A thrilling new series by WL Knightly that kept me intrigued. The characters have depth and secrets that are unexpected. Shaelyn (Shae) is a private investigator in Louisville. She was on track to become a detective but was suspended so she quit the force. Cameron Murphy is a detective in Columbus, Ohio. Cameron and Shae went on a date together but she turned him down for a second date. Leah is a complex character that takes us on a roller coaster ride with twists and turns you won't see coming. This was very well written and the storyline was extraordinary. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
September 15, 2020
Some one was going around and killing pregnant girls and cutting their baby from their stomach. Leah who was the lady yes it says so in the book so its not giving away any of books secrets. I didnt realize it was a continued book so be prepared for that. Leah worked for a clinic for unwed mothers and pregnant young girls. She would pull their record files and sweet talk them say she was gonna help them and they could come live with her and her family. So no pregnant girl would have to sleep on the streets. Leah was very smart and sharp with what she was doing it took awhile till they tracked her down but could they do it before another pregnant girl is fooled by Leahs lies.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 15, 2020
No Final Resolution
A former cop turned private investigator has an ugly history with a woman suspected of murdering pregnant women and taking their babies.
This isn't a bad book so long as you suspend your disbelief. It is unlikely that the ex-cop would be invited into the investigation. The villainess is probably the most interesting character in the book. I was annoyed that this is a series and the story was not resolved. I don't mind series but prefer to have the storyline over and done with. Just annoying and I am not intriqued enough to read book after book. 2.5 Stars
A former cop turned private investigator has an ugly history with a woman suspected of murdering pregnant women and taking their babies.
This isn't a bad book so long as you suspend your disbelief. It is unlikely that the ex-cop would be invited into the investigation. The villainess is probably the most interesting character in the book. I was annoyed that this is a series and the story was not resolved. I don't mind series but prefer to have the storyline over and done with. Just annoying and I am not intriqued enough to read book after book. 2.5 Stars
January 30, 2020
Wow, this book covered all the bases for a suspense and kicks off what promises to be a fast-paced, edge of your seat hunt for the killer. What I like about this book is that all the players are known, there is no question who the Shae and Cam (the investigators) are looking for, yet so many questions remain. The biggest questions are who's next, is it even possible for them to survive, and will Shae and Cam put it all together to catch the killer before too many more lives are lost. Great start to this new series. I'm excited to see where the authors take us next.
February 1, 2020
This story starts when Shae who is a PI gets a call from Cam who is a police detective. It is about a case that she worked on when she was on the force. They find that things have happened that will pull them into the case again. They find that clues and information leads to a person and now they know who to look for but have to figure out why and is they are. They then have to figure out who next to see if they can save them. There are twists and turns as we start this new series with questions and few answers! I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
February 5, 2020
Baby stealing. An awful subject and even more so when it involves the murder of the mother. Cam is a police detective in Columbus who has been called to such a case -- a dead woman whose baby, also dead, has been savagely cut from her womb. He calls Shae who had been investigating a similar cold case. Of course there is some attraction between the main characters. Very interesting and suspenseful story with realistic situations and characters. Surprises along the way. Great book and I can't wait for more.
February 3, 2020
This new series by W.L. Knightly has already got me hooked. I couldn't put it down once I started.
Unlike the others I've read, from the beginning there is no subterfuge - we know exactly who the villain is from the get-go. Each character is well-developed, and I liked that I got to "hear" from most of them through their POV.
I look forward to some jaw-dropping twists & turns as this series gets going.
I voluntarily read & reviewed an ARC of this book.
Unlike the others I've read, from the beginning there is no subterfuge - we know exactly who the villain is from the get-go. Each character is well-developed, and I liked that I got to "hear" from most of them through their POV.
I look forward to some jaw-dropping twists & turns as this series gets going.
I voluntarily read & reviewed an ARC of this book.
January 26, 2020
What a great start to a new series. The story behind this is unique and twisted and I can’t wait to find out more as the series goes on. This is about a woman that takes in really young pregnant mothers, with the intention of keeping the baby and disposing of the mother after she gives birth. Super twisted but couldn’t stop reading. Looking forward to seeing where this story will go
January 27, 2020
Wow... another new series from this author and again I say Wow.. The story literally sucks you in and it's hard to put the book down. The story itself is so very well written and the characters feel real as if you are right there with them. Will Shae be able to finally get closure for a case that has haunted her for years?? Well, I can't wait for book 2 to see where we go from here.
January 30, 2020
Fantastic start to the new series! I was intrigued by the blurb and the story sucked me in from the first page. I was glued to my reader and read it in one sitting!
The storyline is twisted and unlike anything I’ve ever read. It is amazingly well written with characters who are complex and well developed. I’m completely hooked and can’t wait to read more! I need the next book ASAP!
The storyline is twisted and unlike anything I’ve ever read. It is amazingly well written with characters who are complex and well developed. I’m completely hooked and can’t wait to read more! I need the next book ASAP!
June 7, 2021
It seemed pretty short, especially considering it ended on a cliffhanger and the side romantic interest seemed a little forced, especially in their dialogue. But it was overall entertaining. I’d probably classify it like the kind of novel you grab at the airport bookstore before a long flight and it helps you make it through, but you may leave it on the plane for the next traveler.
March 21, 2023
There is a baby thief out there killing mom's trying to take their babies, but it seems like it's not been going so well. Will this next girl give her the baby she's always wanted? Iabsolutely LOVED this! The suspense is insane, I literally read this so fast, I have to start the next one immediately!
February 3, 2020
Another great start to a new series. There are engaging, defined main characters, witty dialogue and an interesting storyline. I liked it. I voluntarily read an ARC and this is my honest review.
February 6, 2020
I'm sure this series will be great, very good start, for some reason I keep thinking this is like a Criminal Minds type. I enjoyed so much.
A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own, as I voluntarily choose to reveiw
A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own, as I voluntarily choose to reveiw
February 13, 2020
This is the first book in the new series by WL Knightly.
The book is really well written, the pace is fast and the characters are fresh but with some mystery.
There is suspense. I really like story and can’t wait to read more!
The book is really well written, the pace is fast and the characters are fresh but with some mystery.
There is suspense. I really like story and can’t wait to read more!
February 16, 2020
Only half a book.
This is good book but to finish it you have to buy the next book in the series. I disagree with this form of selling books. Publishing half a book is cheating. If you're a good writer, people will buy your books.
This is good book but to finish it you have to buy the next book in the series. I disagree with this form of selling books. Publishing half a book is cheating. If you're a good writer, people will buy your books.
April 13, 2020
Deceived
Can not wait to read the next book. This book showed how evil can take over your life. I really felt sorry for the two girls that believed this woman could be their mother. What an evil woman.
Can not wait to read the next book. This book showed how evil can take over your life. I really felt sorry for the two girls that believed this woman could be their mother. What an evil woman.
April 18, 2020
Interesting story, but not believable because of the PI and a Detective running around like chickens without a head. The ending is just as the whole story, not thought through....... another cliffhanger.
July 31, 2021
I am very jealous of this writing team! They have found that spark to draw you in and then leave you dangling in a great, slap-across-the-noggin cliffhanger. I devoured this book and am already craving the next one. Brava!
August 11, 2022
Great police thriller
This story kept you on your toes until the end. The main character Shae is determined to catch the killer as she was once her victim. Can't wait to read the next book and see what happens.
This story kept you on your toes until the end. The main character Shae is determined to catch the killer as she was once her victim. Can't wait to read the next book and see what happens.
January 22, 2023
good read
This was a good read but really dislike this kind of format. You have to buy more books to get the conclusion when it could be done in one. Will not be buying the other two.
This was a good read but really dislike this kind of format. You have to buy more books to get the conclusion when it could be done in one. Will not be buying the other two.
September 19, 2023
Deceived
Awesome read with awesome characters and storylines. Detective assigned to help another county try to solve some grossly murders. This is one you will absolutely hate to put down! Definitely recommend. A+A+
Awesome read with awesome characters and storylines. Detective assigned to help another county try to solve some grossly murders. This is one you will absolutely hate to put down! Definitely recommend. A+A+
September 25, 2023
killing the mother and taking the baby
Once again Knightly has written a book you can’t put down. How many children has this evil person taken? How many have died? Where are they buried?
Keep reading to find the answers.
Once again Knightly has written a book you can’t put down. How many children has this evil person taken? How many have died? Where are they buried?
Keep reading to find the answers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews