Deceived

by Jade Madden

FBI Special Agent Faith Black thought she knew all about fear.

Yet all it took was one night for her to realize she was horribly wrong.

Did she miss the signs because she had found love—something she had once thought impossible?

No, it went deeper than that.

Was she so distracted by the history of her new partner, Special Agent Aaron Thomson that she never saw it coming?

Possible, but doubtful.

No, it all started unraveling on the night of her birthday.

A night that changed her life forever.

When Faith stood at a crime scene with a blood-smeared note addressed to her.

A note that shook her world when the realization dawned.

That the hunter has turned into the hunted.

And Faith Black is now the prey…

Deceived is the first book in the Faith Black FBI Crime Files series; it can be read as a standalone.

Scroll up to grab your copy today!

This book is for mature audiences and contains mild profanity, off-scene sex, and violence.

170 pages, Paperback

First published July 27, 2022

About the author

Jade Madden lives in Minnesota with her husband and dogs. When she's not writing mystery, thriller, and suspense books, she loves to travel, long-distance hiking, gardening, clean eating, learning about healthy lifestyles, bushcraft, herbalism, and staying fit.

Reviews

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC thru Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

This story starts with Faith's birthday where all she wants to do is get away. She has requested the day off, however her boss told her that she couldn't have it because the team was giving her a party. At the party, she is told that she has a partner. After saying goodbyes, she meets a man as she is leaving. This man begins to play a role in her life.

After she got home and was sleeping, she got a call from her new partner and was advised that a body was found and she needed to get to the scene. At the scene a bottle was found with a note to Faith from the killer. Faith had no idea what the note was about. As time went by, a second body was found and again a note was found related to Faith. This time it seemed that she was being targeted by the killer and her boss ordered protection for her. Later a 3rd body was found, but no note this time, however something at the scene indicated how closely the killer was aware of Faith's actions.

With all of the protection that was supposed to be around Faith, it seemed to fail. However Faith's partner had a hunch and was able to identify the killer. The team quickly saought his arrest.

Read this book to learn what the reasons for the killings were, why Faith was targeted and who the individual doing the killings was, you won't be disappointed.

[Dianne Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m loving this book and highly recommend it! This is Jade Madden’s first Book in a series about FBI Special Agent, Faith Black. Jade writes like a seasoned author and better than some seasoned authors I’ve read. Deceived is a suspenseful crime mystery with a shocking twist. Although this is her first full novel, she wrote a short story (a prequel) starring Faith Black as a lead into this series. The prequel is called Vanished. Even though Vanished is short, it is a full story and I recommend you read it as well. If you don’t read Vanished first it will not be a problem because Deceived can be read as a standalone. However, if I like an author, and I really like Jade Madden, I want to read all her books. But at the end of Vanished you will get to read the first 2 chapters of Deceived and I challenge you not to be pulled in! I guarantee you, after reading just 2 chapters you will want Book 1 “Deceived” as quick as possible! And now here I am, July 24 and I have just been given a sneak peek into the first 5 chapters of Deceived. After reading only 5 chapters I’m getting very antsy waiting for the full novel to be released. It is like being a kid at Christmas time and having to wait to open my present. The only difference is that I know what I am getting and I know it will be worth the wait. Literally, each of the first 5 chapters in Deceived leaves you with new questions leading into the next chapter or tantalizing glimpses into Faith’s past that she is unaware of, so there is no way you’re going to be able to put the book down and forget about it. You will want to read it even if you just take a look at the introductory summary Jade put together about the storyline. For example, what about the blood-smeared note addressed to her at a crime scene and a family secret she didn’t know about, or the history of her new partner. What about the fact that she stops being the hunter and ultimately becomes the hunted (the prey). This book is being released on July 27, 2022 and I urge you to pre-order now; that’s what I have done. I say, let Christmas come early this year!

July 27 finally came, so did my book and I couldn’t put it down. After all my anticipation and waiting, I am happy to report I was not disappointed. Now here I am, the entire book complete and ready to tell you I loved it! Brilliant first novel. The story checks all the boxes of a suspenseful crime mystery. The storyline is strong and the author draws you in from the beginning with every chapter leading you into the next with unanswered questions, which is smart because I didn’t want to put it down. Faith Black is dealing with a serial killer and if that isn’t enough, the killer is leaving her notes and making it personal; why? Faith has a new partner and he’s keeping something important from her; what is it and why is he keeping it from her? Get these answers and more by getting your copy of the book now because there’s a shocking twist at the end you won’t want to miss. I was anxious for Faith because she was dealing with a serial killer, which is difficult enough, but then had to handle the personal side of the equation with the notes being left at the scene that were addressed to her. But ultimately she is strong! The book will not leave you disappointed and when you are not reading it, you will be thinking about it. Although there is mention of some violence, there is not a substantial amount of blood and gore, which is how I like it. Now, about that shocking twist…Well done Jade!

The book lives up to its promises and I am excited about reading the next book in the series.

[Mehsi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book from the author/BookSprout in exchange of an honest review.


😍Loved the cover. It is a simple one, but I love how big the title is and the girl just seems to go into it.
😍Faith was such a great character to follow though at times she made some decisions that had me scratching my head. I did think she was strong, though I also hope that, due to all the events in this book, learns to lean a bit more on her colleagues/partner. Yes, I can understand that people may think you are weak, but fuck them. You just got all sort of shit and danger and you are allowed to seek help. At least when things went off the rails with a certain thing she tried to get back on the rails again. I was so proud. I loved how she didn’t give up on things and just dug in deeper. This is one girl you don’t want on your case because she will keep on digging.
😍The mystery/murder got quite a bit scary at times. From scary notes in places you may not find notes to rocks being thrown in the middle of the night to someone stalking your home to gruesome murders.
😍Aaron/Aron was such a great character and I really liked him. He was like a father-figure at times for Faith but at other times they were just having such a fun banter going on that made me laugh. They really are a good duo, hopefully we will see more of Aaron in the next book. I would definitely love it. I know he is going to quit working, but I hope that at least one more book will be with him.
😍I loved that we got some more backstory on Faith. I always love it when we learn more and more about the character. It always gives me even more reason to root for them.
😍Then there is the shocking truth about a certain family member and I was gasping along with Faith. OMG. Did not expect that. Poor Faith! I can imagine that just flipped her world right over.
😍The ending, WOW. That was just exciting (is that the right word, I am trying to find the right English word) and I was so worried for Faith. I loved that we switched between Faith and Aaron.

😶Putting this in between the love and the not so love. I am not sure how I felt about the romance. It did bring some light-heartedness and that is what I liked, but at times I just wasn’t sure if it really fitted given the things that happened.

🙄I knew from the start who the culprit was. I was kind of hoping that maybe there would be a twist and then BOOM things would just flip over. However that didn’t happen. That person was just so sus. OK, yes, I didn’t guess who they really were/their relations, or well I totally hadn’t thought that was possible. XD
🙄 Instalove. People who know me know that I am not a fan of instalove. It just didn’t work here, especially not with how Faith was. She went from super serious with a dash of flirty to OMG, he is the man of my dreams and I LOVE HIM. I NEED HIM. He is my everything. It was just, no.
🙄 Again, just like the previous book, I am not a fan of the POV of a murder/stalker/creepy fucker. I really don’t get why it needs to be added. Because seriously, I just feel disgusted while reading it. Uncomfortable. Not happy. I am glad that, unlike the other book, it was at least not all the time. That was nice.

All in all, even with some lesser things I did enjoy this one greatly. I definitely found a series that I want to keep reading! I want to know what is next for Faith!

Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/

[Renee Helton · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Criminal Minds in book form.
Looking forward to reading more books in the series.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love how complex the characters are in this series! The struggles they each have, their backstories, and their accomplishments all make them so true-to-life. I especially liked how Faith Black's unknown family conflict is the main focus of this book. The struggles that she faces every day because of being a recovering alcoholic are written so masterfully. Anyone who has attended a sobriety meeting or had a similar experience will find these descriptions resonating at a deep level.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sharmani Jayaram · Rating 5 out of 5]

FBI Agent Faith Black is called to investigate a murder of a woman who was brutally murdered. The first body was found near a dumpster near a bar she had gone to. There she meets Connor and she falls for him. She has a new partner Special Agent Aaron Thompson. All the mayhem starts on the night of her birthday.There is a note smeared with blood with her name on it. There are two more murders before the murderer gets her .A nailbiting finish. An Excellent read. I leave a honest review. I recommend this book to other readers.

[Patty U. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book!

I loved this book and look forward to reading more of this series. I too fell in love or lust with Connor! Wasn't too hard to do. This book starts out with a bang and just keeps going. Ms Madden knows how to tell a story. The twist came out of nowhere. Sure didn't see it coming. I enjoyed the writing style of this author. I wasn't ready for the ending to come so soon. Faith Black, FBI agent has a stalker with information they shouldn't have. You will not be disappointed with this book.

[Billie · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an absolutely outstanding debut novel!!
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great suspense and found myself second guessing every thought I had continuously.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.

I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.

[Kenneth Lingenfelter · Rating 5 out of 5]

FBI agent, Faith Black is working a case of women killed found with notes concerning Faith. A recovering alcoholic, Faith meets a man in a bar. Conner seems like it might be the one. Her uncle was a high rating agent with the FBI and she looked up to him. But she finds out the real truth about her uncle. A rapid paced thriller that hooks you from the beginning.

[rhona huish · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book gripped me from the beginning. Couldn’t put it down until I had finished it!
This author writes engaging crime thrillers that suck you in from the start of the book. So much that I felt sad that I had finished it - wanted to read more about Faith Black’s case files.
Well done Jade.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Charles Hirst · Rating 5 out of 5]

Following "Vanished", this gives us more insight into Faith's life and loves as she deals with another convoluted case.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Hilda Baard · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a 5 star read for me. Its beautifully written and kept me glued to the pages to the very end. Beautifully done thriller that is a must read.

[mary arnold · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fast read that you won’t want to put down until you’ve found out who is the murderer. Spunky Faith, out to prove herself in a man’s world. This is an enjoyable book that has all the ingredients to lift the reader out of reality for a few hours.

[MXW · Rating 5 out of 5]

FBI agent Faith Black, a young FBI agent, is assigned to partner with Aaron Thomson, an agent within a year of retirement. They are assigned a murder to investigate. The murderer has performed some peculiar desecrations on the body. At the murder site, there is a message addressed to Faith. So, begins the investigation. The older agent becomes protective of his younger partner, almost a father figure. A second murder with the same signature occurs. There is another message for Faith. The partners continue the investigation.

This is a well written, short novel, with very believable characters. There is suspense, romance, action, and danger. This book is a page turner, with a twist. I really enjoyed reading Deceived and I am looking forward to the next book in the series. My only complaint is that the story ended too soon. I would have liked to see a longer story.

I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for my honest review. These are my true thoughts about the book.

[Kristina Waible · Rating 5 out of 5]

Faith Black is a FBI agent. Her partner Aaron also worked as partner to her uncle Marvin. The man they raised her since her father was a alcoholic. The case they have now is a prostitute that was murdered. A note was left at the scene addressed to Faith. She is also a focus of the killer. Faith just met someone new the night before while celebrating her birthday. She hopes to hear from him again. As another body is found only two days later they think they have a serial killer running lose. Another note is found with that victim. It’s also directed to Faith. On top of that she wants to know why Aaron had himself transferred two years after becoming Marvin’s partner. I liked the characters in this book. Can’t wait to read more stories with Faith. I received a free copy from booksprout for a honest review

[Lori Peterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Received as a review copy from Story Origin, this is an honest review. For Faith Black, she never expected her birthday to become something memorable... but at the same time life shattering. When she meets Connor, Faith believes that maybe he could be a person to spend her life with; and as here love for Connor deepens, Faith and her colleagues chase after a killer that targets vulnerable individuals this murder views as scum. Things gets complicated as the killer taunts Faith with disturbing notes then turns his attention to Faith as she engaged in the very behavior the killer as angered by. A startling family revelation and a hauntingly confrontation with the killer, leaves Faith reeling of the people she had put her trust. Gritty, realistic and fast paced, Deceived will keep you guessing until the end. Highly recommended.

[Danee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great story and another mystery, and that's where FBI Agent Faith Black comes in. Murders are again committed and Faith is sent in and while she and her new partner investigate the murder of a woman whose body was found near a dumpster near a bar. While investigating the murdered woman, she meets Connor for whom she develops feelings. And if 2 more murders are committed, she does not realize that the killer is targeting her until she finds a note smeared with blood and with her name on it, she gets it. Will it make it or is it too late for her . Your attention is glued to the story from start to finish and the tension is palpable. I won't tell you how it ends, but I recommend that you read it for yourself, it's well worth it!

I received an advance review copy of this book and this is my honest review.

[Laure · Rating 4 out of 5]

Faith Black is an FBI agent and perfectly aware that evil exists in the world, but she has never expected to become the target of a serial killer. A new partner, a new case, and a note left at the scene of a brutal murder will turn her world up side down.
I loved this book, and the main character is remarkable. All the characters are well written, but I have to say the Faith Black is a favorite. she's smart, strong, and like the rest of us, she has her flaws. I found her, and the rest of the characters to be compelling and realistic. Exciting and suspenseful read with unexpected twists that kept me riveted. I recommend this book wholeheartedly.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

[Susan Foulkes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Deceived is the first book in a planned series about Faith Black, an FBI agent.

I was a little unsure about the book at first…the writing in the first chapters seemed amateurish.
Thankfully I persevered!

The writing improved as the story continued, the plot was out of the ordinary and well paced, the characters really came to life.

I ended up reading the book in one sitting, and yes, I guessed who the “baddie” was halfway through the story, but that didn’t spoil my enjoyment, and I’m looking forward to reading more of the series.

So, why only 4*?
Some judicious editing would have been helpful in avoiding sentences that veered between present and past tenses.

[Marilyn Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Faith is a FBI agent and her team is giving her a birthday party and she meets Aaron her new partner. The party is over but later they get a call that there has been a murder and she needs to get to the scene. At the scene is a bottle with a note that is addressed to her. She’s confused as why her. There are two other murders and notes left but not the last one. Why is the murderer now coming after her? Will they catch the person?.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Cat B. · Rating 4 out of 5]

3 1/2 stars
I was a bit disappointed in this story. I was, frankly, expecting more. It was far too easy to figure out the evildoer and even the why after certain information was divulged. I also was bothered by how often Faith "giggled". For a serious FBI agent I thought it was a bit much. A "crooked grin" or a "soft smile" might have served the character better. It was not a bad story, the writing was fine, I just wanted more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lennie McDonald · Rating 5 out of 5]

The title of this book is perfect for the story.
Meet FBI Agent Faith Black in this first story about her. Definitely a stand alone read and one well worth reading. Thriller readers will like this book, its well written, has a great plot and a few surprise twists! Some readers may guess who the killer is off the bat but others won't know til the end. Romance, loyalty, and a feisty heroine made for a great read.

[Shelley Bleese · Rating 5 out of 5]

Story with a good twist

After I finished reading Vanished I was really looking forward to reading Deceived, and it did not disappoint me, I really enjoyed the story. Once I started reading I did not stop until I finished it. I enjoyed the humour between Faith and her colleagues, I felt for her when she was devastated, and the twist in the story was so unexpected. Jade is a fantastic author her books are a must read.

[Bernie A · Rating 5 out of 5]

Special Agent Faith Black is in trouble. Someone is targeting her, and watching her every move. Women are being murdered where the murder is blaming her for their deaths. It’s just the beginning of a roller coaster ride for her. A wonderful fast paced story that keeps you glued to the pages. Great writing that you feel like you actually know the characters personally. The beginning of an awesome new series.

[Roger · Rating 4 out of 5]

Deceived: A Suspenseful Crime Mystery with a Shocking Twist (Faith Black FBI Case Files Book 1), my second read from author Jade Madden. Takes off from the opening and grabbed me and kept me reading until I finished it in one sitting. “I received a free Kindle copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review." The gifting of this book did not affect my opinion of it. I look forward to reading more from this author and in this series. (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).

[Susan Martin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although technically there is a prequel, this is a good first full book in a series. The author establishes some pretty interesting characters, and I plan to continue reading the series when the next book comes out. The storyline is wrapped up - no cliffhangers. I appreciate that. I would recommend giving both this and the prequel a try.

I received an ARC at no cost, but this is my honest opinion.

[Shelly Joyce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Someone sick and twisted is killing women and that killer is coming for the FBI agent, Faith Black. Faith is very gutsy, likeable, and also has been flawed. I was rooting for her relationship from the start. I was scared for her when the killer targeted her and got too close. The suspense built throughout the book and was very entertaining. I thought it was a good story and delivered a great ending. I'm looking forward to seeing what Agent Faith Black does in the next book in the series.

[Audrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first book by this author but it won’t e my last! This was a fantastic book. FBI Agent Faith Black is the main character. She is deceived, betrayed, lied to, beat up and shocked beyond belief in the dramatic conclusion to this book! It had everything; drama, suspense, mystery, twists, romance, original plot, fast paced action and a shocking ending! I highly recommend this book and this author! Definitely a must read. I couldn’t put it down!

[Lennie McDonald · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow Deceived is definitely the perfect title for this book!
FYI agent Faith Black and her partner are on the trail of a killer. Along the way she falls in love and learns more than she wanted about her past.
If you like fast paced books with interesting twists and turns you will like this one. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.

[Wanda Siesicki · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! What a story this was. It hooks you at the beginning and has a hard time letting go at the end. I kept thinking that the killer was who I thought it was but I couldn't put together the reason. If you like reading murder mysteries, this book will leave you satisfied.

I was given a free copy of this book and volunteered a honest review.