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On the Edge #2
Trail of Deception
In this heart-stopping installment of the On the Edge series, secrets turn deadly as a search and rescue expert and a psychiatrist team up to catch a killer during a dangerous winter storm.
When Aria, a young girl with autism, goes missing, search and rescue expert Beckett Stolle ventures into the swamplands of Texas to track her down.
When he finds the girl, she is alive, sitting next to a corpse painted in blood. Accusations fly, including suspicion that Aria was involved in the macabre murder. Beckett, however, fears this is the work of a notorious serial killer, turning his rescue mission into a hunt for a murderer. But every clue leads back to Aria, who has secrets of her own—something her psychiatrist, Jo Bellerose, sympathizes with on a very deep and dangerous level.
As an ice storm descends on Texas, Jo partners with Beckett, a handsome ex-military outdoorsman, to prove Aria’s innocence and find the real killer before another victim is slain. The two get trapped in the wilderness, where their professional relationship morphs into something intensely personal.
And the danger headed their way is one they never saw coming.
When Aria, a young girl with autism, goes missing, search and rescue expert Beckett Stolle ventures into the swamplands of Texas to track her down.
When he finds the girl, she is alive, sitting next to a corpse painted in blood. Accusations fly, including suspicion that Aria was involved in the macabre murder. Beckett, however, fears this is the work of a notorious serial killer, turning his rescue mission into a hunt for a murderer. But every clue leads back to Aria, who has secrets of her own—something her psychiatrist, Jo Bellerose, sympathizes with on a very deep and dangerous level.
As an ice storm descends on Texas, Jo partners with Beckett, a handsome ex-military outdoorsman, to prove Aria’s innocence and find the real killer before another victim is slain. The two get trapped in the wilderness, where their professional relationship morphs into something intensely personal.
And the danger headed their way is one they never saw coming.
312 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 4, 2023
299 people are currently reading
2920 people want to read
About the author
Amanda McKinney
37 books997 followersAmanda McKinney is the Amazon Charts bestselling and multi-award-winning author of more than thirty romance and thriller novels. Her books have received over fifteen literary awards and nominations, including the prestigious Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence, and have been included in lists such as POPSUGAR's 12 Best Romance Books, and featured on the Today Show.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
April 18, 2023
EXCERPT: I wasn't always like this. In fact, I was quite normal once.
Though, I know now, the signs were there.
I was nine years old the first time I imagined killing someone. My father, to be exact.
ABOUT 'TRAIL OF DECEPTION': When Aria, a young girl with autism, goes missing, search and rescue expert Beckett Stolle ventures into the swamplands of Texas to track her down.
When he finds the girl, she is alive, sitting next to a corpse painted in blood. Accusations fly, including suspicion that Aria was involved in the macabre murder. Beckett, however, fears this is the work of a notorious serial killer, turning his rescue mission into a hunt for a murderer. But every clue leads back to Aria, who has secrets of her own—something her psychiatrist, Jo Bellerose, sympathizes with on a very deep and dangerous level.
As an ice storm descends on Texas, Jo partners with Beckett, a handsome ex-military outdoorsman, to prove Aria’s innocence and find the real killer before another victim is slain. The two get trapped in the wilderness, where their professional relationship morphs into something intensely personal.
And the danger headed their way is one they never saw coming.
MY THOUGHTS: Well, they may not have seen it coming, but I figured out who the killer was quite early on, and was delighted to be proved right.
Trail of Deception is an intriguing mix of genres that worked well for me. The characters are unpredictable but relatable. There's an element of steamy romance, but it doesn't overwhelm the main threads of the storyline, instead complementing it.
Set in Texas, Trail of Deception is the second in the 'On the Edge' series, but the first that I have read. I'm not sure if any of the same characters or even location featured in the first book in the series, but I had no trouble in reading this as a stand-alone.
The storyline deals with, amongst other things, autism, domestic abuse, self-esteem, addiction, mother-daughter relationships and PTSD. But until the very last chapter the author doesn't take to her soapbox over any of the issues.
Trail of Deception is a good, solid read, but not the best I have read by this author.
⭐⭐⭐.8
#TrailofDeception #NetGalley
I: @amandamckinneyauthor @montlake
T: #AmamdaMcKinneyAuthor @Montlake
#contemporaryfiction #crime #detectivefiction #murdermystery #romanticsuspense #thriller
THE AUTHOR: Set in small, Southern towns, Amanda’s books are page-turning murder mysteries peppered with steamy romance She lives in Arkansas with her handsome husband, two beautiful boys, and three obnoxious dogs.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Montlake via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of Trail of Deception by Amanda McKinney for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
Though, I know now, the signs were there.
I was nine years old the first time I imagined killing someone. My father, to be exact.
ABOUT 'TRAIL OF DECEPTION': When Aria, a young girl with autism, goes missing, search and rescue expert Beckett Stolle ventures into the swamplands of Texas to track her down.
When he finds the girl, she is alive, sitting next to a corpse painted in blood. Accusations fly, including suspicion that Aria was involved in the macabre murder. Beckett, however, fears this is the work of a notorious serial killer, turning his rescue mission into a hunt for a murderer. But every clue leads back to Aria, who has secrets of her own—something her psychiatrist, Jo Bellerose, sympathizes with on a very deep and dangerous level.
As an ice storm descends on Texas, Jo partners with Beckett, a handsome ex-military outdoorsman, to prove Aria’s innocence and find the real killer before another victim is slain. The two get trapped in the wilderness, where their professional relationship morphs into something intensely personal.
And the danger headed their way is one they never saw coming.
MY THOUGHTS: Well, they may not have seen it coming, but I figured out who the killer was quite early on, and was delighted to be proved right.
Trail of Deception is an intriguing mix of genres that worked well for me. The characters are unpredictable but relatable. There's an element of steamy romance, but it doesn't overwhelm the main threads of the storyline, instead complementing it.
Set in Texas, Trail of Deception is the second in the 'On the Edge' series, but the first that I have read. I'm not sure if any of the same characters or even location featured in the first book in the series, but I had no trouble in reading this as a stand-alone.
The storyline deals with, amongst other things, autism, domestic abuse, self-esteem, addiction, mother-daughter relationships and PTSD. But until the very last chapter the author doesn't take to her soapbox over any of the issues.
Trail of Deception is a good, solid read, but not the best I have read by this author.
⭐⭐⭐.8
#TrailofDeception #NetGalley
I: @amandamckinneyauthor @montlake
T: #AmamdaMcKinneyAuthor @Montlake
#contemporaryfiction #crime #detectivefiction #murdermystery #romanticsuspense #thriller
THE AUTHOR: Set in small, Southern towns, Amanda’s books are page-turning murder mysteries peppered with steamy romance She lives in Arkansas with her handsome husband, two beautiful boys, and three obnoxious dogs.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Montlake via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of Trail of Deception by Amanda McKinney for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
April 13, 2023
Putting this book down was one of the hardest things I did recently, it was so engaging I almost missed my train stop, twice.
It's not easy to write a good Romance Suspense, usually you have too much of one or too much of the other, but this one was the perfect mix of both.
Jo Bellerose, a psychiatrist, finds herself involved in the hunt for a serial killer that had just killed his latest victim in her town; with the help of the search and rescue expert Beckett Stolle, she has to put together all the clues, that seem to lead to her latest patient, an autistic girl named Aria.
Secrets and a huge ice storm will make this mission harder than they expected.
Will they hunt down the horror, or it will find them first?
I really enjoyed the story, and I would have given it 5 stars, but I think that the author could have explained better Aria's personality, it was a great opportunity to raise awareness on the subject, and I think it was a bit wasted.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
It's not easy to write a good Romance Suspense, usually you have too much of one or too much of the other, but this one was the perfect mix of both.
Jo Bellerose, a psychiatrist, finds herself involved in the hunt for a serial killer that had just killed his latest victim in her town; with the help of the search and rescue expert Beckett Stolle, she has to put together all the clues, that seem to lead to her latest patient, an autistic girl named Aria.
Secrets and a huge ice storm will make this mission harder than they expected.
Will they hunt down the horror, or it will find them first?
I really enjoyed the story, and I would have given it 5 stars, but I think that the author could have explained better Aria's personality, it was a great opportunity to raise awareness on the subject, and I think it was a bit wasted.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 26, 2023
This book is I guess what you would label as a romance/suspense/thriller that takes place in Southeastern Texas in the small town of Skull Hollow. With a name like that you just know something really bad is about to happen. Yep. A local autistic teenage girl goes missing and is found hours later in the swampland next to a murdered woman by Beckett Stolle, a hunky search and rescue expert. Beckett has had a crush for sometime on Jo Bellerose , a local psychiatrist who doesn’t seem to know he exists.
The story is told from several alternating points of view, the killer’s, Jo’s, and Beckett’s, but is very easy to follow along with. This is a book where everyone has secrets, secrets they don’t want to share. As everyone knows, secrets can be very dangerous.
When Beckett finally has the chance to meet and impress Jo, she doesn’t appear to be wowed by him, but he isn’t deterred. She is busy trying trying to help the young autistic girl, Aria recover from her shocking experience. She and Beckett are both worried about the serial killer they believe is in their community, especially when they realize he has Jo in his sights.
I was very engrossed in this suspenseful story and eager to find out what would happen although I did figure out who the killer was before the end. My only dissatisfaction was with the romance/relationship between Jo and Beckett. I just wasn’t feeling the attraction. He described himself as not knowing much about love and having zero interest in it. Yet he appears to fall in mad love almost overnight with Jo, a woman with many secrets and resistance to sharing anything with him.
All that said, I did enjoy the book and think mystery/suspense/thriller lovers will enjoy it as well. Many thanks to the publisher, Montlake, and to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest opinion. I gave it three stars.
The story is told from several alternating points of view, the killer’s, Jo’s, and Beckett’s, but is very easy to follow along with. This is a book where everyone has secrets, secrets they don’t want to share. As everyone knows, secrets can be very dangerous.
When Beckett finally has the chance to meet and impress Jo, she doesn’t appear to be wowed by him, but he isn’t deterred. She is busy trying trying to help the young autistic girl, Aria recover from her shocking experience. She and Beckett are both worried about the serial killer they believe is in their community, especially when they realize he has Jo in his sights.
I was very engrossed in this suspenseful story and eager to find out what would happen although I did figure out who the killer was before the end. My only dissatisfaction was with the romance/relationship between Jo and Beckett. I just wasn’t feeling the attraction. He described himself as not knowing much about love and having zero interest in it. Yet he appears to fall in mad love almost overnight with Jo, a woman with many secrets and resistance to sharing anything with him.
All that said, I did enjoy the book and think mystery/suspense/thriller lovers will enjoy it as well. Many thanks to the publisher, Montlake, and to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest opinion. I gave it three stars.
December 13, 2022
In this thrilling instalment of the On the Edge series, secrets turn nasty as a search and rescue professional and a psychiatrist collaborate to apprehend a murderer during a dangerous winter storm.
Needing a chilling thriller, I am honoured to be granted access to this ARC cause I previously quite like the first instalment. Hence, I was quite excited to get through this book. The beginning was fast-paced, exactly how I wanted in a thriller book. The gory part of it, the psychotic behaviour of the killer, and the awareness of various sides of disabilities and mental illness that I wasn't aware of. The middle kinda give me an abrupt pause, it went from dangerously fast to very slow, the build-up chemistry between Becket and Jo felt off, I didn't buy their relationship as I didn't get the feelings between these two despite both of them showed interest in each other. I feel like the plot lack darker auras or themes. It felt more like a general fiction novel rather than a thriller one, or maybe I didn't get the genre right. Only the last part of the book got me hooked back into the story. The 'true' killer wasn't that surprising, but I appreciate the twist and turns which led to the big reveal. Overall, it was a decent book, but unfortunately I wasnt quite satisfied with the vibes I got from it.
Huge thanks to Netgalley for the ARC!
Needing a chilling thriller, I am honoured to be granted access to this ARC cause I previously quite like the first instalment. Hence, I was quite excited to get through this book. The beginning was fast-paced, exactly how I wanted in a thriller book. The gory part of it, the psychotic behaviour of the killer, and the awareness of various sides of disabilities and mental illness that I wasn't aware of. The middle kinda give me an abrupt pause, it went from dangerously fast to very slow, the build-up chemistry between Becket and Jo felt off, I didn't buy their relationship as I didn't get the feelings between these two despite both of them showed interest in each other. I feel like the plot lack darker auras or themes. It felt more like a general fiction novel rather than a thriller one, or maybe I didn't get the genre right. Only the last part of the book got me hooked back into the story. The 'true' killer wasn't that surprising, but I appreciate the twist and turns which led to the big reveal. Overall, it was a decent book, but unfortunately I wasnt quite satisfied with the vibes I got from it.
Huge thanks to Netgalley for the ARC!
May 9, 2023
The second novel in the 'On the Edge' series, 'Trail of Deception' takes readers back to the small town of Skull Hollow, Texas (sounds like a fantastic place to live, right) where we pick up with two characters we were introduced to in the initial book. Beginning with a bang, the plot opens with the search for a missing teenage girl. Tactical tracking expert, Beckett Stolle is deeply enmeshed in the investigation - and gets an unpleasant surprise when he finds her next to a dead body. In comes Jo Bellerose, a psychiatrist hired to treat the traumatized girl, who, because of her different mannerisms due to autism, is a suspect in the murder. When the tracker and psychiatrist meet, sparks immediately fly, and we follow them on their journey to find a killer and clear Aria's name.
As with the first book, I enjoyed the mixture of suspense and romance; Amanda McKinney is skilled at bringing the two entirely different genres together. I also like that the suspense never gets lost in the romance - the mystery is always at the forefront and the relationship between Jo and Beckett enhances and builds on it.
I took away one star because the 'whodunit' aspect of the thriller was easy to solve for me; and while I still liked the overall storyline, it didn't hit the way I expect a thriller to do. I also felt there needed to be some more character development for Beckett - we learned a lot about Jo, which helped to identify with her, but I never felt like I understood what made Beckett tick.
All in all, 4 stars out of 5! The main characters carried the plot well, and I loved that we saw some more of Easton and Mia. While the conclusion of the suspense was easy for me to see coming, it did not take away from my overall enjoyment of the novel.
I definitely recommend this to those who love having some romance in their mysteries! Triggers include: violence against women and violent acts (murder). I am definitely eagerly awaiting the next installment in the series.
*A great many thanks to Netgalley, Amanda McKinney, and Montlake for this ARC. It is important to note that I was under no commitment to provide a positive review, and all opinions are undoubtedly my own.*
As with the first book, I enjoyed the mixture of suspense and romance; Amanda McKinney is skilled at bringing the two entirely different genres together. I also like that the suspense never gets lost in the romance - the mystery is always at the forefront and the relationship between Jo and Beckett enhances and builds on it.
I took away one star because the 'whodunit' aspect of the thriller was easy to solve for me; and while I still liked the overall storyline, it didn't hit the way I expect a thriller to do. I also felt there needed to be some more character development for Beckett - we learned a lot about Jo, which helped to identify with her, but I never felt like I understood what made Beckett tick.
All in all, 4 stars out of 5! The main characters carried the plot well, and I loved that we saw some more of Easton and Mia. While the conclusion of the suspense was easy for me to see coming, it did not take away from my overall enjoyment of the novel.
I definitely recommend this to those who love having some romance in their mysteries! Triggers include: violence against women and violent acts (murder). I am definitely eagerly awaiting the next installment in the series.
*A great many thanks to Netgalley, Amanda McKinney, and Montlake for this ARC. It is important to note that I was under no commitment to provide a positive review, and all opinions are undoubtedly my own.*
April 4, 2023
Check out our full post for TRAIL OF DECEPTION on Wicked Reads.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Avid Reader – ☆☆☆☆
3.5 stars
M/F Romance
Triggers: Hidden because they may contain spoilers.
Jo is a local psychiatrist who knows that her past trauma has caused her to hide in this sleepy town. But when women start getting murdered, Jo will need to draw on all of her expertise to figure out who is hunting in her town.
Beckett is a self-proclaimed no lover person. He loves his town and knows that when someone is hunting women and killing them, he has to find out who and protect the people of his town. With Beckett as a self-proclaimed bachelor, it was quite difficult for me to switch over to him falling head over heels for Jo.
Aria is a bit of a mystery in this story. She's an autistic teen who happens upon a body from the murderer. Questions arise about whether or not Aria is capable of committing such a heinous crime or if she is a victim herself.
The story is semi-fast-paced, until it isn't. The author kind of puts the breaks on and tries to create a romance within the suspense. I didn't really like how Jo and Beckett's relationship "developed." It didn't feel very organic. Jo doesn't notice Beckett until she does, Beckett falls in love fairly quickly and somehow, they figure out the mystery of the town.
Overall, while the beginning was much more fast-paced, I felt that the whole romance detracted from the suspense and mystery. It was just an okay read for me.
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
April 3, 2023
Trail of Deception (On the Edge, #2) by Amanda McKinney
3.5 stars
M/F Romance
Triggers: Substance Abuse, trauma
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Jo is a local psychiatrist who knows that her past trauma has caused her to hide in this sleepy town. But, when women start getting murdered, Jo will need to draw on all of her expertise to figure out who is hunting in her town.
Beckett is a self-proclaimed no lover person. He loves his town and knows that when someone is hunting women and killing them, he has to find out who and protect the people of his town. With Beckett as a self-proclaimed bachelor, it was quite difficult for me to switch over to him falling head over heels for Jo.
Aria is a bit of a mystery in this story. She's an autistic teen who happens upon a body from the murdered. Questions arise about whether or not Aria is capable of committing such a heinous crime or if she is a victim herself.
The story is semi-fast paced until it isn't. The author kind of puts the breaks on and tries to create a romance within the suspense. I didn't really like how Jo and Beckett's relationship "developed". It didn't feel very organic. Jo doesn't notice Beckett until she does, Beckett falls in love fairly quickly and somehow they figure out the mystery of the town.
Overall, while the beginning was much more fast paced, I felt that the whole romance detracted from the suspense and mystery. It was just an OK read for me.
3.5 stars
M/F Romance
Triggers: Substance Abuse, trauma
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Jo is a local psychiatrist who knows that her past trauma has caused her to hide in this sleepy town. But, when women start getting murdered, Jo will need to draw on all of her expertise to figure out who is hunting in her town.
Beckett is a self-proclaimed no lover person. He loves his town and knows that when someone is hunting women and killing them, he has to find out who and protect the people of his town. With Beckett as a self-proclaimed bachelor, it was quite difficult for me to switch over to him falling head over heels for Jo.
Aria is a bit of a mystery in this story. She's an autistic teen who happens upon a body from the murdered. Questions arise about whether or not Aria is capable of committing such a heinous crime or if she is a victim herself.
The story is semi-fast paced until it isn't. The author kind of puts the breaks on and tries to create a romance within the suspense. I didn't really like how Jo and Beckett's relationship "developed". It didn't feel very organic. Jo doesn't notice Beckett until she does, Beckett falls in love fairly quickly and somehow they figure out the mystery of the town.
Overall, while the beginning was much more fast paced, I felt that the whole romance detracted from the suspense and mystery. It was just an OK read for me.
March 23, 2023
Solid romantic suspense novel, 3.5 stars.
This is my first book of the series, but I didn't feel out of place. The author did a good job of introducing the reader to the storyline and tying it into the current book.
This book focuses on Jo Bellerose, a psychiatrist in Skull Hollow. She's got a complicated past and not a lot of confidence in herself, but she is determined to do whatever it takes to help her patients. When a young witness to a murder is found, Jo reaches out to her and starts Aria on art therapy, as she is autistic.
During the murder investigation, Jo starts to get close to the agent, Beckett Stolle. She's met him previously as a teammate of her friend Mia's partner, but sparks haven't started until now. As they investigate the Pollock Butcher's murders, it becomes certain that Jo is an intended victim.
I enjoyed the teamwork between Jo and Beckett. Jo's relationship with her mother is challenged, but they are trying to move forward. There's a little bit of heat, hardly any, and the focus is more on the building relationship between Jo and Beckett than the physical aspect. Good mystery and action.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.
This is my first book of the series, but I didn't feel out of place. The author did a good job of introducing the reader to the storyline and tying it into the current book.
This book focuses on Jo Bellerose, a psychiatrist in Skull Hollow. She's got a complicated past and not a lot of confidence in herself, but she is determined to do whatever it takes to help her patients. When a young witness to a murder is found, Jo reaches out to her and starts Aria on art therapy, as she is autistic.
During the murder investigation, Jo starts to get close to the agent, Beckett Stolle. She's met him previously as a teammate of her friend Mia's partner, but sparks haven't started until now. As they investigate the Pollock Butcher's murders, it becomes certain that Jo is an intended victim.
I enjoyed the teamwork between Jo and Beckett. Jo's relationship with her mother is challenged, but they are trying to move forward. There's a little bit of heat, hardly any, and the focus is more on the building relationship between Jo and Beckett than the physical aspect. Good mystery and action.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.
March 24, 2023
4.25⭐
The guys of LYNX are back and this time search and rescue expert Beckett takes centre stage.
When a young girl with autism disappears just as a dangerous ice storm rolls through Skulls Hollow.
But Beckett is determined to find her. What he doesn't expect is to find her alive next to a corpse. A corpse painted in blood.
But is this the work of a notorious serial killer?
Or Aria herself?
That's what the local police start to believe.
Only Beckett isn't convinced and is determined to prove them wrong. So he enlists the help of Aria's psychiatrist Jo.
Which leads the pair to team up and hunt for a serial killer nicknamed the Pollock Butcher. Only the killer is closer than either of them could've ever imagined.
And with a great mix of suspense, danger and heat. Likable characters and an engaging storyline. Trail of Deception was an enjoyable read. That I would happily recommend to others.
My thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to read an early copy of Trail of Deception. 😊
The guys of LYNX are back and this time search and rescue expert Beckett takes centre stage.
When a young girl with autism disappears just as a dangerous ice storm rolls through Skulls Hollow.
But Beckett is determined to find her. What he doesn't expect is to find her alive next to a corpse. A corpse painted in blood.
But is this the work of a notorious serial killer?
Or Aria herself?
That's what the local police start to believe.
Only Beckett isn't convinced and is determined to prove them wrong. So he enlists the help of Aria's psychiatrist Jo.
Which leads the pair to team up and hunt for a serial killer nicknamed the Pollock Butcher. Only the killer is closer than either of them could've ever imagined.
And with a great mix of suspense, danger and heat. Likable characters and an engaging storyline. Trail of Deception was an enjoyable read. That I would happily recommend to others.
My thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to read an early copy of Trail of Deception. 😊
May 12, 2023
When Beckett Stolle of LINX finds Aria, a young autistic girl near the body of a woman who was killed by the Pollack Butcher, he puts her in the care of psychiatrist Jo Bellerose to try and unlock her memories of what happened to the murdered woman. Using art therapy, Aria begins to paint elaborate patterns in red just like the Butcher uses when killing women. While Jo doesn't believe that Aria is involved, she does believe that there is a connection. As Jo and Beckett investigate, secrets come to light that might keep them from finding the murderer and might also keep them apart.
Trail of Deception starts out with a very good premise using the idea of art as a background for this serial killer story. However, the story soon goes off the rails with underdeveloped characters and a weak suspense plot. Also, the dialogue and the relationships between characters do not feel realistic. Issues of drug abuse, autism, and PTSD are given a very superficial treatment, making the story even less believable. Overall, this book is very disappointing, particularly because the first book in the series, Buried Deception, is so good. 2 1/2 stars
Trail of Deception starts out with a very good premise using the idea of art as a background for this serial killer story. However, the story soon goes off the rails with underdeveloped characters and a weak suspense plot. Also, the dialogue and the relationships between characters do not feel realistic. Issues of drug abuse, autism, and PTSD are given a very superficial treatment, making the story even less believable. Overall, this book is very disappointing, particularly because the first book in the series, Buried Deception, is so good. 2 1/2 stars
February 12, 2023
Thank you Netgalley / Arc for an advance copy for a honest review.
This review is my opinion only.
The story started off action packed and then slowly loss its steam. Although regained toward the end. I did like the fact all the characters made sense and served a purpose. They were all well developed which made the story easier to follow..
I loved the twist and turns the book had to help make it a thriller, although there was a forced romance which, in my opinion, through the story line off a bit. The serial killer, I suppose most will guess before revealed. I dint read the first book, but I felt like this book can standalone.
All in all I enjoyed my first book from this author and will definitely be reading more from her.
This review is my opinion only.
The story started off action packed and then slowly loss its steam. Although regained toward the end. I did like the fact all the characters made sense and served a purpose. They were all well developed which made the story easier to follow..
I loved the twist and turns the book had to help make it a thriller, although there was a forced romance which, in my opinion, through the story line off a bit. The serial killer, I suppose most will guess before revealed. I dint read the first book, but I felt like this book can standalone.
All in all I enjoyed my first book from this author and will definitely be reading more from her.
December 4, 2022
This page turner is a mystery/romance, set in the small town of Skull Hollow, Texas.
A serial killer is on the loose, and his targets are total women. Though the first chapter paints (pun intended ?) a gory picture, that is about as grotesque as the details get, and even that wasn't too over the top.
Follow along as Jo and Beckett work together to uncover the mystery.
This book was easy to read, and enjoyable. The characters were well thought out, and likeable.
Thank you NetGalley and Amanda McKinney for an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
A serial killer is on the loose, and his targets are total women. Though the first chapter paints (pun intended ?) a gory picture, that is about as grotesque as the details get, and even that wasn't too over the top.
Follow along as Jo and Beckett work together to uncover the mystery.
This book was easy to read, and enjoyable. The characters were well thought out, and likeable.
Thank you NetGalley and Amanda McKinney for an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 21, 2023
4.5⭐🩸🖌️That shower therapy session was something else.
🩸🖌️I like it when they get together after developing a strong feeling, not lust/love at first sight thn take it from there.
🩸🖌️I agree Jo owed some efforts but not towards her mother instead to herself. Her mother should be the one putting effort in their relationship if she wants it to work.
🩸🖌️Going after him alone was stupid. And I'm pretty sure it's a trap to get Jo alone.
And ffs she lost the weapon before attack.
🩸🖌️Do they need to prove themselves as a psychiatrist in every conversation?
🩸🖌️I wish we got an epilogue in future where we got a proposal or something because I really liked them together. But it's okay it's a good book. You could guess the preparator but it's well written. It's not perfect hence 4.5⭐ but I really enjoyed it.
🩸🖌️I like it when they get together after developing a strong feeling, not lust/love at first sight thn take it from there.
🩸🖌️I agree Jo owed some efforts but not towards her mother instead to herself. Her mother should be the one putting effort in their relationship if she wants it to work.
🩸🖌️Going after him alone was stupid. And I'm pretty sure it's a trap to get Jo alone.
And ffs she lost the weapon before attack.
🩸🖌️Do they need to prove themselves as a psychiatrist in every conversation?
🩸🖌️I wish we got an epilogue in future where we got a proposal or something because I really liked them together. But it's okay it's a good book. You could guess the preparator but it's well written. It's not perfect hence 4.5⭐ but I really enjoyed it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 9, 2023
Love Beckett, Jo, and cask coffee
I had read the first book in the series and thought I would try this one too. Absolutely loved the characters and became obsessed with finding Beckett's cask coffee! The serial murderer they end up chasing had a unique signature and kept me guessing, but it was equal to following the relationship between Jo and Beckett.
Also, the audio that is included with Kindle Unlimited truly added to the story. Normally it's just convenient but in this case, it was so much more!
I had read the first book in the series and thought I would try this one too. Absolutely loved the characters and became obsessed with finding Beckett's cask coffee! The serial murderer they end up chasing had a unique signature and kept me guessing, but it was equal to following the relationship between Jo and Beckett.
Also, the audio that is included with Kindle Unlimited truly added to the story. Normally it's just convenient but in this case, it was so much more!
April 2, 2023
Trail of Deception by Amanda McKinney is the second book in the On the Edge Series. Once again we are brought back to Texas where the prior book is set. This book does share mutual characters, however I believe the book could be read as a stand alone.
A woman is missing and there is noise that there may be a killer on the loose. Beckett Stole is part of an elite group of men and is considered a specialist in the areas of search and rescue. He goes off on his own having a feeling where the missing woman may be. He is correct but not the way he had hoped. He also found Aria, a young girl who is a most nonverbal person with Autism. Now he knows he is looking for a serial killer.
Jo Bellerose is a psychiatrist who is helping Aria find her voice using paint therapy. Aria is painting quite disturbing pictures and is considered a person of interest. However, Jo is positive she is not. To top it off, Jo’s mother is visiting her and driving her crazy. The most interesting aspect is she is sneaking out of the house at odd hours of the night. While Jo is trying to figure out what is going on, she inadvertently sees someone out by where the body was found.
Now Jo and Beckett are working together to help solve the murder and someone is stalking Jo. Someone who knows the area and where Jo is. Someone who is willing to face the ice storm to get to Jo.
This book kept me on the edge of my seat. I was sure I knew who the murderer was, but I was wrong! The twists and turns had me reading faster in hope of finding out who was doing what. Trail of Deception by Amanda McKinney was a great read.
A woman is missing and there is noise that there may be a killer on the loose. Beckett Stole is part of an elite group of men and is considered a specialist in the areas of search and rescue. He goes off on his own having a feeling where the missing woman may be. He is correct but not the way he had hoped. He also found Aria, a young girl who is a most nonverbal person with Autism. Now he knows he is looking for a serial killer.
Jo Bellerose is a psychiatrist who is helping Aria find her voice using paint therapy. Aria is painting quite disturbing pictures and is considered a person of interest. However, Jo is positive she is not. To top it off, Jo’s mother is visiting her and driving her crazy. The most interesting aspect is she is sneaking out of the house at odd hours of the night. While Jo is trying to figure out what is going on, she inadvertently sees someone out by where the body was found.
Now Jo and Beckett are working together to help solve the murder and someone is stalking Jo. Someone who knows the area and where Jo is. Someone who is willing to face the ice storm to get to Jo.
This book kept me on the edge of my seat. I was sure I knew who the murderer was, but I was wrong! The twists and turns had me reading faster in hope of finding out who was doing what. Trail of Deception by Amanda McKinney was a great read.
May 11, 2023
I didn’t believe this “love” story at all. They knew each other maybe three days and he’s spouting how much he loves her.
December 7, 2022
Trail of Deception is a solid romantic suspense that's worth the read if you're a fan of the genre, which I am. It's second in a series, but while the protagonists of Buried Deception have cameos, the book functions perfectly as a standalone. It's told in the first person, with alternating viewpoints (plus a few rogue chapters here and there). I always find myself stuffing first-person books to the bottom of the pile because they aren't my jam. However, I really liked Buried Deception and I like Amanda McKinney, so I went for it. Glad I did.
Here, we have search-and-rescue guy Beckett and psychiatrist Jo. Beck's been crushing on the doc from afar, which could be creepy and is also reminiscent of the first book's hero, who was also a bit of a stalker, but here's where the first person voice helps out. Beck is such a confident character, so getting inside his head to see how starry-eyed he is over Jo is pretty charming. Jo too radiates confidence, but in her head, things are a little less orderly. But things aren't always what they seem.
Together, they try to sort out the mystery of the serial killer in their midst who is now targeting Jo. I figured out who the killer was the minute the clue dropped, but this author is such a good writer that many will likely not notice it and will instead be distracted by one of several red herrings.
Beck and Jo's budding romance is well paced in some ways but feels a bit rushed in others, though the romance fortunately doesn't overpower the suspense. I do think the speed to ILY would have been more realistic if they'd known each other before this story, and it wouldn't have been a reach seeing as his friend is with her friend.
Overall, another great story. I'm assuming there are at least two more coming in this series (making Skull Hollow one of the most murdery small towns in America), and I look forward to them!
I received an ARC of this book for free from the publisher and Netgalley. I'm writing this review voluntarily, and it reflects my honest opinion. Thanks!
Here, we have search-and-rescue guy Beckett and psychiatrist Jo. Beck's been crushing on the doc from afar, which could be creepy and is also reminiscent of the first book's hero, who was also a bit of a stalker, but here's where the first person voice helps out. Beck is such a confident character, so getting inside his head to see how starry-eyed he is over Jo is pretty charming. Jo too radiates confidence, but in her head, things are a little less orderly. But things aren't always what they seem.
Together, they try to sort out the mystery of the serial killer in their midst who is now targeting Jo. I figured out who the killer was the minute the clue dropped, but this author is such a good writer that many will likely not notice it and will instead be distracted by one of several red herrings.
Beck and Jo's budding romance is well paced in some ways but feels a bit rushed in others, though the romance fortunately doesn't overpower the suspense. I do think the speed to ILY would have been more realistic if they'd known each other before this story, and it wouldn't have been a reach seeing as his friend is with her friend.
Overall, another great story. I'm assuming there are at least two more coming in this series (making Skull Hollow one of the most murdery small towns in America), and I look forward to them!
I received an ARC of this book for free from the publisher and Netgalley. I'm writing this review voluntarily, and it reflects my honest opinion. Thanks!
May 29, 2023
Two are-you-fucking-kidding-me-with-this-mansplaining-asshole-hero stars.
I enjoyed the first book in this series so much, especially the male narrator. Even though Jo wasn't an interesting character to me in book one--she seemed like a trying-too-hard caricature of a rich girl/bad girl--I was looking forward to reading/listening to Trail of Deception.
Trail of Deception starts off with a gruesome murder and then a way too lengthy intro about Mia's (the heroine from book #1) morning sickness. Sorry, I don't want to read about that in someone else's book. I don't care that Mia's knocked up. And I definitely don't want details about her puking. WTF? Who thought that was a good way to start a romance about a new couple? Beckett and Jo don't even meet until several chapters into the book, leaving me even less interested in their relationship.
Speaking of Beckett, he's interesting--at first. (The narrator is nowhere near as good as Lance Greenfield from book one but he's adequate.) As we get to know Beckett, he becomes infinitely less heroic. He's a ladies man-naturally. But that's fine. I love a good manwhore meets THE ONE and settles down romance as much as the next woman. But in one particular scene he uses what little he knows of psychology to weasel information out of a former one-night-stand. His internal dialogue about the woman is gross and completely destroyed his hero material for me. I love a good dirty-talking alpha hero but this was just gross and disrespectful behavior that really served no purpose other than to show he has no morals and doesn't mind using women to get what he wants. Other women, not Jo, of course because she's the only woman he "respects."
Jo is a hard character to like and cheer for. Somehow she's a psychiatrist who has a weird pill-addiction and dumb reasons for hoarding loads of pills. Okay, whatever, I'm sure she'll keep her medical license. Beckett mansplains her issues to her in the weirdest, most smug way and suggests she start keeping a calendar and goal-setting to get over her unresolved mommy and daddy issues (I kid you not.) That's when I lost all interest and respect for these characters and this author. Just, WTF are you thinking? After knowing her for a grand total of what, two days, this smug jackwaffle is going to be her life coach AND her lover? He doesn't even know her well enough for this to be sweet or endearing. It just comes off as obnoxious and controlling. So fucking unromantic and unsexy. No. Just no.
Within the time it takes for a snow storm to close down Skull Hollow, these two are supposedly in love. Cue cringey sex scenes. I love a well-written love scene. This book ain't it. It's sort of shoved into the book to establish their "luv." Ew, no.
Sorry, I can't buy these two are already "in love." Jo and Beckett seem to have a lot of unresolved psychological issues and character flaws. The author does nothing to resolve their issues or develop their characters enough to believe in the relationship. In no way is an HEA for these characters believable. I give them 18 months until they're back to their bar stools trolling for one night stands or pills.
If you'd rather write thrillers, just do that. Don't bother with the romance if you're not going to develop the relationship in a meaningful way. It's annoying and frustrating. I think I'm done with this series. Especially if the next one is going to detail Jo's morning sickness and Mia elbow deep in diapers. Barf.
I enjoyed the first book in this series so much, especially the male narrator. Even though Jo wasn't an interesting character to me in book one--she seemed like a trying-too-hard caricature of a rich girl/bad girl--I was looking forward to reading/listening to Trail of Deception.
Trail of Deception starts off with a gruesome murder and then a way too lengthy intro about Mia's (the heroine from book #1) morning sickness. Sorry, I don't want to read about that in someone else's book. I don't care that Mia's knocked up. And I definitely don't want details about her puking. WTF? Who thought that was a good way to start a romance about a new couple? Beckett and Jo don't even meet until several chapters into the book, leaving me even less interested in their relationship.
Speaking of Beckett, he's interesting--at first. (The narrator is nowhere near as good as Lance Greenfield from book one but he's adequate.) As we get to know Beckett, he becomes infinitely less heroic. He's a ladies man-naturally. But that's fine. I love a good manwhore meets THE ONE and settles down romance as much as the next woman. But in one particular scene he uses what little he knows of psychology to weasel information out of a former one-night-stand. His internal dialogue about the woman is gross and completely destroyed his hero material for me. I love a good dirty-talking alpha hero but this was just gross and disrespectful behavior that really served no purpose other than to show he has no morals and doesn't mind using women to get what he wants. Other women, not Jo, of course because she's the only woman he "respects."
Jo is a hard character to like and cheer for. Somehow she's a psychiatrist who has a weird pill-addiction and dumb reasons for hoarding loads of pills. Okay, whatever, I'm sure she'll keep her medical license. Beckett mansplains her issues to her in the weirdest, most smug way and suggests she start keeping a calendar and goal-setting to get over her unresolved mommy and daddy issues (I kid you not.) That's when I lost all interest and respect for these characters and this author. Just, WTF are you thinking? After knowing her for a grand total of what, two days, this smug jackwaffle is going to be her life coach AND her lover? He doesn't even know her well enough for this to be sweet or endearing. It just comes off as obnoxious and controlling. So fucking unromantic and unsexy. No. Just no.
Within the time it takes for a snow storm to close down Skull Hollow, these two are supposedly in love. Cue cringey sex scenes. I love a well-written love scene. This book ain't it. It's sort of shoved into the book to establish their "luv." Ew, no.
Sorry, I can't buy these two are already "in love." Jo and Beckett seem to have a lot of unresolved psychological issues and character flaws. The author does nothing to resolve their issues or develop their characters enough to believe in the relationship. In no way is an HEA for these characters believable. I give them 18 months until they're back to their bar stools trolling for one night stands or pills.
If you'd rather write thrillers, just do that. Don't bother with the romance if you're not going to develop the relationship in a meaningful way. It's annoying and frustrating. I think I'm done with this series. Especially if the next one is going to detail Jo's morning sickness and Mia elbow deep in diapers. Barf.
March 19, 2023
Trail of Deception is the second book I've read by Amanda McKinney--the first was in a different series, but this novel worked just fine as a standalone. I'm not sure that the term "romantic suspense" really fits--this was more of a gruesome murder mystery than it was a romance, and I just couldn't buy what little romance there was, but it certainly was a suspenseful, albeit gruesome read, and it gets 3 stars from this reader.
The setting is Skull Hollow, a small town in Texas, the criminal a psycho serial killer who flays his victim's bodies and paints them with their own blood. The hero is Beckett Stolle, a handsome search and rescue professional, although what he's doing in this tiny town in southern Texas had me wondering just how much crime there could be in that location. The heroine is Jo, a psychiatrist who owns and runs a mental health clinic in this tiny town. And then there's Aria, a teenage girl who is high on the autism spectrum, her mother is Jamie, a drug user, and Aria's stepfather is Cyrus, a firefighter. There are also secondary characters, among them Leif, a local drug dealer, and Melinda, Jo's self-indulgent and uber-wealthy mother. Every single one of these characters is hiding something, and it's the secrets that move this novel forward, as Beckett and local law enforcement search for Aria, and another local girl who's gone missing, and Aria is found sitting near the serial killer's latest victim--the other missing girl. But how do you get a 99% nonverbal autistic girl to tell what she's witnessed?
I liked the set-up of this novel, but felt that it floundered somewhere in the middle. The slow-growing relationship between Jo and Beckett seemed at odds with his previously stated relationship avoidance policy. Jo and her insecurities was somewhat more relatable, but she was also rather cold and closed off, and also keeping deep, dark secrets.
This whodunit kept me turning pages, and while I did like the multiple character narration, by the end of the novel, it just didn't satisfy. I would have liked more background and character development when it came to Beckett, and the lack thereof kept me wondering what a man with his skills and talents was doing in that small town in the first place. The romance went from zero to love way too quickly. All in all, not a bad read, but not a great one for this reviewer.
I voluntarily read and advance reader copy of this novel, which is scheduled for release on April 4, 2023. The opinions stated are my own.
The setting is Skull Hollow, a small town in Texas, the criminal a psycho serial killer who flays his victim's bodies and paints them with their own blood. The hero is Beckett Stolle, a handsome search and rescue professional, although what he's doing in this tiny town in southern Texas had me wondering just how much crime there could be in that location. The heroine is Jo, a psychiatrist who owns and runs a mental health clinic in this tiny town. And then there's Aria, a teenage girl who is high on the autism spectrum, her mother is Jamie, a drug user, and Aria's stepfather is Cyrus, a firefighter. There are also secondary characters, among them Leif, a local drug dealer, and Melinda, Jo's self-indulgent and uber-wealthy mother. Every single one of these characters is hiding something, and it's the secrets that move this novel forward, as Beckett and local law enforcement search for Aria, and another local girl who's gone missing, and Aria is found sitting near the serial killer's latest victim--the other missing girl. But how do you get a 99% nonverbal autistic girl to tell what she's witnessed?
I liked the set-up of this novel, but felt that it floundered somewhere in the middle. The slow-growing relationship between Jo and Beckett seemed at odds with his previously stated relationship avoidance policy. Jo and her insecurities was somewhat more relatable, but she was also rather cold and closed off, and also keeping deep, dark secrets.
This whodunit kept me turning pages, and while I did like the multiple character narration, by the end of the novel, it just didn't satisfy. I would have liked more background and character development when it came to Beckett, and the lack thereof kept me wondering what a man with his skills and talents was doing in that small town in the first place. The romance went from zero to love way too quickly. All in all, not a bad read, but not a great one for this reviewer.
I voluntarily read and advance reader copy of this novel, which is scheduled for release on April 4, 2023. The opinions stated are my own.
April 4, 2023
There was a lot to like in this book. The mystery at its core is solid; it’s very dark, very nasty, but it’s well-plotted with some good red herrings and some interesting ideas. It didn’t fool me – I worked it out pretty early on – but I enjoyed seeing the craft in the book as it was all laid out towards the end. There’s also some creepy, sinister, effective writing. Some parts made me feel nervy and jumpy, which I don’t usually get reading a murder mystery like this.
The romance had its highlights, too. The chemistry between Beckett and Jo was good, especially early on; their flirty banter was easy, fun, and I was intrigued to see where it would go. I liked Beckett’s protectiveness and concern for her. However, I did feel the pace of their relationship was a bit fast and there wasn’t a lot of build up to it being a proper romance - it sort of skipped from the flirtatiousness to being very serious, which I didn’t find entirely believable. I also found Jo’s character a bit difficult to pin down. Sometimes I quite liked her, and others I found her actions confusing and hard to follow.
That said, I really did enjoy reading this book. It was an easy read: the writing is engaging and surprisingly light, given the subject matter, the story flows well, and the mystery/suspense aspect is very well-done. I barely noticed how long it was taking me to read it, to be honest. I would recommend this to anyone looking for a well-written, well-plotted romantic suspense novel, but I would caution readers to check content warnings before reading. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing a free copy of this book.
Content Notes:
Warnings:
Other: .
The romance had its highlights, too. The chemistry between Beckett and Jo was good, especially early on; their flirty banter was easy, fun, and I was intrigued to see where it would go. I liked Beckett’s protectiveness and concern for her. However, I did feel the pace of their relationship was a bit fast and there wasn’t a lot of build up to it being a proper romance - it sort of skipped from the flirtatiousness to being very serious, which I didn’t find entirely believable. I also found Jo’s character a bit difficult to pin down. Sometimes I quite liked her, and others I found her actions confusing and hard to follow.
That said, I really did enjoy reading this book. It was an easy read: the writing is engaging and surprisingly light, given the subject matter, the story flows well, and the mystery/suspense aspect is very well-done. I barely noticed how long it was taking me to read it, to be honest. I would recommend this to anyone looking for a well-written, well-plotted romantic suspense novel, but I would caution readers to check content warnings before reading. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing a free copy of this book.
Content Notes:
Warnings:
Other: .
December 6, 2022
I’m struggling to give this book a rating, and this review will be long. I hope this review is read with an open mind.
I will begin by saying I gave the first book in this series a rave review; it was a great romantic suspense novel that was the perfect escape from reality. I read it with pleasure. When I saw the second installment was being released, I excitedly read the synopsis. Then my heart sank. I debated whether or not I should read the book based on my reaction to the synopsis, but ultimately decided I wanted to give the author the benefit of the doubt and see how she would approach the subject matter.
As an autistic woman, I am really disappointed by how Aria, the autistic adult that is a potential suspect, is portrayed. I highlighted several passages that were quite disturbing to me. I take issue with a lot of the language around Aria - “creature” I think being the most offensive and dehumanizing. There is so much ableism, and so much pointing at Aria as being “other” and “not normal.” There are also a lot of generalizations regarding autistic children/adults that are simply wrong. (For example, non-verbal really isn’t used anymore, instead consider using non-speaking. Functioning labels like “high-functioning” are also discouraged.) I would recommend looking into resources like The Autistic Self Advocacy Network, which provide really wonderful resources for learning about Autism that are quite different from what is portrayed here.
I could say so much more on this topic, but as an autistic woman myself it simply makes me so sad to see the author use this disability in this type of sensational manner. There is so much generalizing here, and incorrectly doing so, that it could be harmful to those without experience with an autistic person, to believe some of the things written in the book.
I wish I could comment on the rest of the novel, but I was distracted by all of the above. There was a lot shoved into less than 300 pages, and the romance especially seemed incredibly rushed. I wish there was more there to explore.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the opportunity for my honest review.
I will begin by saying I gave the first book in this series a rave review; it was a great romantic suspense novel that was the perfect escape from reality. I read it with pleasure. When I saw the second installment was being released, I excitedly read the synopsis. Then my heart sank. I debated whether or not I should read the book based on my reaction to the synopsis, but ultimately decided I wanted to give the author the benefit of the doubt and see how she would approach the subject matter.
As an autistic woman, I am really disappointed by how Aria, the autistic adult that is a potential suspect, is portrayed. I highlighted several passages that were quite disturbing to me. I take issue with a lot of the language around Aria - “creature” I think being the most offensive and dehumanizing. There is so much ableism, and so much pointing at Aria as being “other” and “not normal.” There are also a lot of generalizations regarding autistic children/adults that are simply wrong. (For example, non-verbal really isn’t used anymore, instead consider using non-speaking. Functioning labels like “high-functioning” are also discouraged.) I would recommend looking into resources like The Autistic Self Advocacy Network, which provide really wonderful resources for learning about Autism that are quite different from what is portrayed here.
I could say so much more on this topic, but as an autistic woman myself it simply makes me so sad to see the author use this disability in this type of sensational manner. There is so much generalizing here, and incorrectly doing so, that it could be harmful to those without experience with an autistic person, to believe some of the things written in the book.
I wish I could comment on the rest of the novel, but I was distracted by all of the above. There was a lot shoved into less than 300 pages, and the romance especially seemed incredibly rushed. I wish there was more there to explore.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the opportunity for my honest review.
April 1, 2023
Beckett Stolle is the business partner of the CEO of the LYNX Group. He has watched Jo Bellerose for many months. He’s fascinated by her, but he hasn’t shown any interest in her—yet. He’s just observed her and kept his distance. However, that’s about to end. The Pollock Butcher is somewhere in their town of Skull Hollow, located in the piney woods of east Texas. The Pollock Butcher likes to stab women, strip them of their clothes, and use the blood flowing out of their veins to paint macabre pictures on their bodies. The most recent victim is found in Skull Hollow, next to a 17-year-old autistic teen named Aria, who is mostly non-verbal. Beckett is the guy who finds both Aria and the most recent victim. Jo Bellerose is a psychiatrist at The Dragonfly Clinic. She offers her psychiatric services to Aria in the form of art therapy. Aria jumps at the chance to express her ‘feelings’ through paint; eventually creating paintings that showcase the art found on each of the victims of the Pollock Butcher. This makes her appear guilty, but she’s never seriously suspected. Nevertheless, it seems as if Jo is now a target, and Beckett wants to make sure that the Pollock Butcher doesn’t succeed in making Jo his next victim.
This mentally-warped psycho is creepy! It must have been a little scary for Ms. McKinney to imagine someone so terrible to be in her story! Doubtless there were nightmares involved… Regardless, the story flows steadily and the pace never relents. The tension rises as well, and the reader is hooked from the start. McKinney places us in the mind of the killer in several places throughout this book, which gives readers a better understanding of his motives. On a positive note, Beckett Stolle is an awesome male protagonist! He has incredible insight into Jo, and he uses every bit of it to understand her and to accept her flaws as well as her reasons for certain behaviors. Jo has a tenuous relationship with her own mother, and gains her own insights about that with Beckett’s help. I really love the way he lets Jo cry when needed, without trying to ‘fix’ her or fix the cause of her tears. Excellent job on this book, Ms. McKinney!
This mentally-warped psycho is creepy! It must have been a little scary for Ms. McKinney to imagine someone so terrible to be in her story! Doubtless there were nightmares involved… Regardless, the story flows steadily and the pace never relents. The tension rises as well, and the reader is hooked from the start. McKinney places us in the mind of the killer in several places throughout this book, which gives readers a better understanding of his motives. On a positive note, Beckett Stolle is an awesome male protagonist! He has incredible insight into Jo, and he uses every bit of it to understand her and to accept her flaws as well as her reasons for certain behaviors. Jo has a tenuous relationship with her own mother, and gains her own insights about that with Beckett’s help. I really love the way he lets Jo cry when needed, without trying to ‘fix’ her or fix the cause of her tears. Excellent job on this book, Ms. McKinney!
April 4, 2023
✔Contemporary
✔Romantic suspense / romantic thriller
✔Fun cast of supporting – secondary characters that add to the story and development
✔Enough emotional baggage to fill a room
✔An unexpected team consisting of a search and rescue expert and a psychiatrist
✔A handsome ex-military outdoorsman turned search and rescue expert
✔A psychiatrist
✔Unpredictable twists and turns
✔Gripping/ gritty/ raw
✔Twisty
✔Angst-ish
✔Page turner
✔Secrets and lies
✔Trapped in the wilderness
✔Who-done-it mystery
✔Off – the- charts chemistry
✔Emotional roller-coaster
✔Beautiful love story
Trail Of Deception is the second book in the heart-stopping installment of the On the Edge series and such a thrilling addition. It is a deliciously sinful adventure with a side of a who-done-it mystery and an unputdownable 5 star read. This was an excellent blend of action, crime, psychological thriller and romance. Amanda McKinney dealt with some delicate topics like autism, substance abuse, trauma - she's done it in the best way. Such a brilliant read from start to finish.
After Aria, a young girl with autism, goes missing, search and rescue expert Beckett Stolle ventures into the swamplands of Texas to track her down. Enters Jo, a local psychiatrist, to assist in the investigation. Little does the world know that Jo's past trauma made her hide in this town, yet on a personal level Jo can connect with Aria and understand her secrets which can be dangerous. As professional lines blur with danger, mystery surrounding them, Jo and Beckett, can’t deny the smoldering attraction between them. Both are stubborn, strong-willed, independent, complex - layered. I was moved by them, their story and plot. Their connection was effortless, their chemistry off the charts. The stakes are getting higher throughout the book. The mystery, danger and new information are some of the key moments in this story. The pace of the story added to their romance, development and was crafted beautifully.
An absolutely amazing book with everything you could possibly want if you love who-done-it mysteries, thrillers, character driven storyline, romance, lies, deceit and danger.
✔Romantic suspense / romantic thriller
✔Fun cast of supporting – secondary characters that add to the story and development
✔Enough emotional baggage to fill a room
✔An unexpected team consisting of a search and rescue expert and a psychiatrist
✔A handsome ex-military outdoorsman turned search and rescue expert
✔A psychiatrist
✔Unpredictable twists and turns
✔Gripping/ gritty/ raw
✔Twisty
✔Angst-ish
✔Page turner
✔Secrets and lies
✔Trapped in the wilderness
✔Who-done-it mystery
✔Off – the- charts chemistry
✔Emotional roller-coaster
✔Beautiful love story
Trail Of Deception is the second book in the heart-stopping installment of the On the Edge series and such a thrilling addition. It is a deliciously sinful adventure with a side of a who-done-it mystery and an unputdownable 5 star read. This was an excellent blend of action, crime, psychological thriller and romance. Amanda McKinney dealt with some delicate topics like autism, substance abuse, trauma - she's done it in the best way. Such a brilliant read from start to finish.
After Aria, a young girl with autism, goes missing, search and rescue expert Beckett Stolle ventures into the swamplands of Texas to track her down. Enters Jo, a local psychiatrist, to assist in the investigation. Little does the world know that Jo's past trauma made her hide in this town, yet on a personal level Jo can connect with Aria and understand her secrets which can be dangerous. As professional lines blur with danger, mystery surrounding them, Jo and Beckett, can’t deny the smoldering attraction between them. Both are stubborn, strong-willed, independent, complex - layered. I was moved by them, their story and plot. Their connection was effortless, their chemistry off the charts. The stakes are getting higher throughout the book. The mystery, danger and new information are some of the key moments in this story. The pace of the story added to their romance, development and was crafted beautifully.
An absolutely amazing book with everything you could possibly want if you love who-done-it mysteries, thrillers, character driven storyline, romance, lies, deceit and danger.
January 20, 2023
I recently finished 'Buried Deception' by Amanda McKinney and immediately made sure I had all of the alerts set that would let me know when another book by her would be available for ARC. She proved with that book that she was going to be a favorite author of mine and this next book certainly didn't disappoint. And if I thought the first one got nitty and gritty, then this one went full-on gruesome. In the absolutely best kind of way. I also loved that Mia and Easton made appearances.
Beckett and Jo were at the center of this book and I was loving the chemistry between the two of them. Beck has had a crush on Jo for a while, so naturally, when she becomes the target of a serial killer, he is right there to help protect her. Swoon! In checking out what other people think of this book, I noticed that some feel the romance is rushed between Beck and Jo. But, personally, I'm assuming since he's been crushing on her for a while, they at least have known each other for a while even if they haven't interacted much. Plus, their friends are together. So, I really didn't feel that things were too rushed and reading about their romance was a great addition to the suspense happening. I love them as much as I love Mia and Easton and that's saying something!
A lot of red herrings pop up in this one to lead you astray. And I'm not ashamed to admit that I absolutely fell for them and I'm willing to bet many other readers will as well because Amanda McKinney is a master at the craft of red herrings! Maybe if (when) I go back and read it a second time I will pick up on different things and realize I could have figured out the guilty party sooner. But those red herrings are so good and so well done. I strongly recommend this book and I recommend that you read 'Buried Deception' as well! I'll just be sitting here waiting for the next one to come out.
Beckett and Jo were at the center of this book and I was loving the chemistry between the two of them. Beck has had a crush on Jo for a while, so naturally, when she becomes the target of a serial killer, he is right there to help protect her. Swoon! In checking out what other people think of this book, I noticed that some feel the romance is rushed between Beck and Jo. But, personally, I'm assuming since he's been crushing on her for a while, they at least have known each other for a while even if they haven't interacted much. Plus, their friends are together. So, I really didn't feel that things were too rushed and reading about their romance was a great addition to the suspense happening. I love them as much as I love Mia and Easton and that's saying something!
A lot of red herrings pop up in this one to lead you astray. And I'm not ashamed to admit that I absolutely fell for them and I'm willing to bet many other readers will as well because Amanda McKinney is a master at the craft of red herrings! Maybe if (when) I go back and read it a second time I will pick up on different things and realize I could have figured out the guilty party sooner. But those red herrings are so good and so well done. I strongly recommend this book and I recommend that you read 'Buried Deception' as well! I'll just be sitting here waiting for the next one to come out.
March 21, 2023
First off I want to thank @netgalley, @amazonpublishing, @amandamckinney for my free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was the perfect blend of suspense and romance, Amanda knocked it out of the park with this one. Buried Deception was good, but Trail Of Deception was amazing. From the first page she grabs you with the thoughts of the serial killer and it just draws you in for a non stop ride. I read it in less than 24h, it's that good.
I loved getting back into it with these characters, we follow Jo and Beckett in this book and their path to love. I loved Jo, she is such a relatable character, with all her insecurities, all her flaws, it was amazing to see her grow throughout the whole book. Beckett is so supportive towards Jo and her process to becoming a better version of herself.
The different POV's make for a deeper understanding into each characters mind, which for me is a big winner. Honestly, everything in this book felt so real, the emotions, the thought process, the investigation process, the reasons behind the actions, everything is meticulously researched by the author, nothing feels unusual, everything feels relatable and true. There were so many mental health issues where I totally related and felt as if I was getting the reasoning behind my thoughts and why I think of myself a certain way. I love the time and effort she put in to that research. Amanda has a way of writing that just draws you in and keeps you on the edge of your seat.
This was an amazing second book to this series, I'm not sure how she'll top it off, but honestly I'm sure she will! Every book she writes gets better and better.
If you're looking for an amazing, thrilling, suspenseful, edge of your seat read sprinkled with romance definitely give this series a try!
This was the perfect blend of suspense and romance, Amanda knocked it out of the park with this one. Buried Deception was good, but Trail Of Deception was amazing. From the first page she grabs you with the thoughts of the serial killer and it just draws you in for a non stop ride. I read it in less than 24h, it's that good.
I loved getting back into it with these characters, we follow Jo and Beckett in this book and their path to love. I loved Jo, she is such a relatable character, with all her insecurities, all her flaws, it was amazing to see her grow throughout the whole book. Beckett is so supportive towards Jo and her process to becoming a better version of herself.
The different POV's make for a deeper understanding into each characters mind, which for me is a big winner. Honestly, everything in this book felt so real, the emotions, the thought process, the investigation process, the reasons behind the actions, everything is meticulously researched by the author, nothing feels unusual, everything feels relatable and true. There were so many mental health issues where I totally related and felt as if I was getting the reasoning behind my thoughts and why I think of myself a certain way. I love the time and effort she put in to that research. Amanda has a way of writing that just draws you in and keeps you on the edge of your seat.
This was an amazing second book to this series, I'm not sure how she'll top it off, but honestly I'm sure she will! Every book she writes gets better and better.
If you're looking for an amazing, thrilling, suspenseful, edge of your seat read sprinkled with romance definitely give this series a try!
March 22, 2023
Trail of Deception is the second book in the On the Edge series. The story is set in the small town of Skull Hollow, Texas as a huge ice storm is approaching. This story begins with the search for a missing autistic teenage girl. Tactical tracking expert, Beckett Stolle is involved in the investigation. He locates Aria who is nonresponsive but agitated. Beckett had learned that Aria like Garth Brooks. He starts to hum a song by Brooks and can see her relax and then sings the whole song. From this action Aria has bonded with Beckett and trusts him enough to point behind her to the body of a woman.
Jo Bellerose, a psychiatrist is hired to treat the traumatized girl, who, because of her being autistic, requires a different way to therapy. Jo suggests several different ways with no response until Jo mentions art therapy to which Aria says yes. Jo is alarmed when she watches Aria paints the scene of the murder. After several sessions Jo realizes that Aria is trying to tell Jo what she knows but Jo just can't quite see the answer just yet. As the storm intensifies so does the killer as he sets his sights on Jo.
This is the first book in the series I have read. The book is told from three points of view; Beckett, Jo and the killer. The murder is the primary focus with the relationship of Jo and Beckett building within the story. Jo and Beckett are attracted to each other, but Jo has issues from her past that will complicate their relationship. I thought the writing was very descriptive and the characters were well developed. I enjoyed how the story kept building in its intensity with the storm and the hunt for the murderer. Looking forward to reading more from this author.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an unbiased review.
Jo Bellerose, a psychiatrist is hired to treat the traumatized girl, who, because of her being autistic, requires a different way to therapy. Jo suggests several different ways with no response until Jo mentions art therapy to which Aria says yes. Jo is alarmed when she watches Aria paints the scene of the murder. After several sessions Jo realizes that Aria is trying to tell Jo what she knows but Jo just can't quite see the answer just yet. As the storm intensifies so does the killer as he sets his sights on Jo.
This is the first book in the series I have read. The book is told from three points of view; Beckett, Jo and the killer. The murder is the primary focus with the relationship of Jo and Beckett building within the story. Jo and Beckett are attracted to each other, but Jo has issues from her past that will complicate their relationship. I thought the writing was very descriptive and the characters were well developed. I enjoyed how the story kept building in its intensity with the storm and the hunt for the murderer. Looking forward to reading more from this author.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an unbiased review.
March 31, 2023
Skull Hollow is again under threat from a nefarious person lurking in the shadows and leaving death in their wake.
Trail of Deception comes out of the gate with a thrilling start as we are taken straight into the mind of the killer. Throughout the story we move through three different points of view: our mysterious murderer, Beckett (trained in search and rescue), and Jo (a local psychiatrist). I am a reader who enjoys multiple perspectives and how they bring different angles to the same story, so this set up was perfect for my tastes.
As far as the pacing of the story, the beginning and end had that element of suspense that drives me to want to find out more. The middle of the story was a bit slow, but I have to say that I really enjoyed Jo's characterization, and I think this is where she shone the most in her quest to seek out patterns using Rorschach test cards and a client's paintings. I also really enjoyed Jo as a whole. She had a nice balance of light and dark and she was smart, yet imperfect.
If you are a romance reader and looking forward to the romance in this suspense-filled story, just know that the romance comes out as a bit undercooked. There was a zero to sixty element to the pacing of the relationship that was ineffective in convincing me that these two really had a deeper connection.
While this is a part of a series, it can be read as a standalone novel. Although, I highly recommend reading Buried Deception because I thought it was incredibly thrilling and intense in all the right ways!
3.5 ✨'s
I read and reviewed an advanced eARC of this book thanks to Montlake via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Releases: 04/04/23
#TrailofDeception #NetGalley
Trail of Deception comes out of the gate with a thrilling start as we are taken straight into the mind of the killer. Throughout the story we move through three different points of view: our mysterious murderer, Beckett (trained in search and rescue), and Jo (a local psychiatrist). I am a reader who enjoys multiple perspectives and how they bring different angles to the same story, so this set up was perfect for my tastes.
As far as the pacing of the story, the beginning and end had that element of suspense that drives me to want to find out more. The middle of the story was a bit slow, but I have to say that I really enjoyed Jo's characterization, and I think this is where she shone the most in her quest to seek out patterns using Rorschach test cards and a client's paintings. I also really enjoyed Jo as a whole. She had a nice balance of light and dark and she was smart, yet imperfect.
If you are a romance reader and looking forward to the romance in this suspense-filled story, just know that the romance comes out as a bit undercooked. There was a zero to sixty element to the pacing of the relationship that was ineffective in convincing me that these two really had a deeper connection.
While this is a part of a series, it can be read as a standalone novel. Although, I highly recommend reading Buried Deception because I thought it was incredibly thrilling and intense in all the right ways!
3.5 ✨'s
I read and reviewed an advanced eARC of this book thanks to Montlake via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Releases: 04/04/23
#TrailofDeception #NetGalley
June 3, 2023
"Trail of Deception" , the second book of "On the Edge" series by Amanda McKinney, expands on the dark and slightly creepy atmosphere McKinney had already built in the first book "Buried Deception". What I didn't expect to see, however, was the story of Jo Bellerose, the slightly taciturn and brutally honest psychiatrist working along with Mia in her clinic.
McKinney had indeed hinted at the inner turmoils of Jo in the previous book; in this book, we are given an insight into her varied facets and what are her life experiences which make her the person she currently is. In comes search and rescue expert, Beckett Stolle, closest friend to the CEO of the tactical and rescue company, Easton Crew. He had always been intrigued by the slightly aloof doctor; when the serial killer terrorising the east coast of the country kills a resident of their town, Easton uses that opportunity to get closer to her and know her.
And amidst these dark and purely evil happenings, two lovely souls starved for unconditional love and affection, learn to let in a person into their crazy lives and show them love.
I must say I enjoyed this book more than the first, the main reason being this book features a lot more light-hearted moments between the couple. There are definitely some completely scary, crazy and dark moments in this book too but they are well offset by these sweet moments. Not only that, the platform for the reveal of the identity of the killer has been so very well set that, inspite of it being slightly easy to guess, we feel a small moment of shock during the reveal.
This is yet another well-written psychological thriller by Amanda McKinney which you could buy if you are heavily into dark and crazy psychological thrillers.
McKinney had indeed hinted at the inner turmoils of Jo in the previous book; in this book, we are given an insight into her varied facets and what are her life experiences which make her the person she currently is. In comes search and rescue expert, Beckett Stolle, closest friend to the CEO of the tactical and rescue company, Easton Crew. He had always been intrigued by the slightly aloof doctor; when the serial killer terrorising the east coast of the country kills a resident of their town, Easton uses that opportunity to get closer to her and know her.
And amidst these dark and purely evil happenings, two lovely souls starved for unconditional love and affection, learn to let in a person into their crazy lives and show them love.
I must say I enjoyed this book more than the first, the main reason being this book features a lot more light-hearted moments between the couple. There are definitely some completely scary, crazy and dark moments in this book too but they are well offset by these sweet moments. Not only that, the platform for the reveal of the identity of the killer has been so very well set that, inspite of it being slightly easy to guess, we feel a small moment of shock during the reveal.
This is yet another well-written psychological thriller by Amanda McKinney which you could buy if you are heavily into dark and crazy psychological thrillers.
March 10, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley, Amanda McKinney and Montlake for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
McKinney returns with her second book of her On The Edge series. This time a brutal sadistic serial killer has been making his way around Texas killing women and slicing them open. On the eve of a brutal winter storm one of Skull Hollow's young vulnerable citizens is missing. Aria is a limited verbal autistic and has ventured out into the woods by herself. When LYNX tactical expert Beckett Stolle finds the young girls she is sitting next to the newest victim. Aria is quickly taken to see Jo Bellerose, a psychiatrist at The Dragonfly Clinic, to try and reveal any knowledge she might have of the killer before he strikes again Jo's methods are unorthodox much like herself but she and Beckett must work together to find the killer before they become his next victim.
I enjoy many of McKinney's novels and was excited to see a second chapter to the On The Edge series. This one does not focus on Mia or Easton but their coworkers, Jo and Beckett. Jo is all rebel while Beckett wants to control the situations which makes them buttheads but ultimately work well together. Their relationship was a bit formulaic, and did not feel like they would connect romantically. I enjoyed Jo's work with Aria although the mom and Beckett should have been kept away from the sessions. My biggest gripe was about the killer and the soft connection to the original victims. The story is told from the dual POV of Jo and Beckett. Overall this is a good romantic mystery.
McKinney returns with her second book of her On The Edge series. This time a brutal sadistic serial killer has been making his way around Texas killing women and slicing them open. On the eve of a brutal winter storm one of Skull Hollow's young vulnerable citizens is missing. Aria is a limited verbal autistic and has ventured out into the woods by herself. When LYNX tactical expert Beckett Stolle finds the young girls she is sitting next to the newest victim. Aria is quickly taken to see Jo Bellerose, a psychiatrist at The Dragonfly Clinic, to try and reveal any knowledge she might have of the killer before he strikes again Jo's methods are unorthodox much like herself but she and Beckett must work together to find the killer before they become his next victim.
I enjoy many of McKinney's novels and was excited to see a second chapter to the On The Edge series. This one does not focus on Mia or Easton but their coworkers, Jo and Beckett. Jo is all rebel while Beckett wants to control the situations which makes them buttheads but ultimately work well together. Their relationship was a bit formulaic, and did not feel like they would connect romantically. I enjoyed Jo's work with Aria although the mom and Beckett should have been kept away from the sessions. My biggest gripe was about the killer and the soft connection to the original victims. The story is told from the dual POV of Jo and Beckett. Overall this is a good romantic mystery.
March 15, 2023
Ms McKinney is one of my auto-buy authors when it comes to Romantic Suspense with an edge! If you took the romance away, the story would stand strong on its suspense alone.
OML Jo Bellerose was a big bag of contradictions. Rich girl, tough girl façade, don't mess with me attitude and as many traumas to deal with as some her patients! Beckett is her perfect foil - stubborn, determined, can see through her smokescreens and she may just be the woman to make him want to put the effort into a relationship!
They navigate the search and rescue for a non-verbal autistic girl named Aria and in the process get involved in the hunt for a serial killer terrorising Texas. Add in mothers midst midlife breakdown, friends first pregnancies and an almighty storm/blizzard and you have all the hot buttons for an amazing story.
As the proud auntie of 5 kids with varying forms of Autism, it was great to see it being represented in this book. It is hard to give it the in-depth treatment it needs as the varying forms of Autism are many and varied but I thought Aria was handled and depicted well. Beckett and Jo sizzle with chemistry, even whilst Jo is sticking up every barricade, sounding alarms and giving every "go away" vibe whilst actually wanting to get closer to Beckett. Her "dirty little secret" nearly broke my heart. She overcame so much but, again, I felt her backstory and traumas were brilliantly handled.
Witty banter, taut and well paced story and lots of engaging characters.
OML Jo Bellerose was a big bag of contradictions. Rich girl, tough girl façade, don't mess with me attitude and as many traumas to deal with as some her patients! Beckett is her perfect foil - stubborn, determined, can see through her smokescreens and she may just be the woman to make him want to put the effort into a relationship!
They navigate the search and rescue for a non-verbal autistic girl named Aria and in the process get involved in the hunt for a serial killer terrorising Texas. Add in mothers midst midlife breakdown, friends first pregnancies and an almighty storm/blizzard and you have all the hot buttons for an amazing story.
As the proud auntie of 5 kids with varying forms of Autism, it was great to see it being represented in this book. It is hard to give it the in-depth treatment it needs as the varying forms of Autism are many and varied but I thought Aria was handled and depicted well. Beckett and Jo sizzle with chemistry, even whilst Jo is sticking up every barricade, sounding alarms and giving every "go away" vibe whilst actually wanting to get closer to Beckett. Her "dirty little secret" nearly broke my heart. She overcame so much but, again, I felt her backstory and traumas were brilliantly handled.
Witty banter, taut and well paced story and lots of engaging characters.
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