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On the Edge #1
Buried Deception
In the pulse-racing first installment of the On the Edge series, a criminal psychologist teams up with a former marine on a deadly wildland mission. Not even their hearts can stay out of harm’s way.
In the swamps of East Texas, alligators aren’t the only danger lurking in the shadows.
After a young woman is brutally attacked on a popular hiking trail, the evidence points to the notorious Black Cat Stalker. The town of Skull Hollow enlists Dr. Mia Frost to provide a psychological profile and assist in the investigation.
When another person goes missing, Mia partners with Easton Crew, former marine and current CEO of a tactical tracking company. Both Mia and Easton are stubborn, strong-willed, and independent, but neither can deny the smoldering attraction between them.
As professional lines blur, Easton starts to question Mia’s motives and worries she’s getting too close to the investigation. The mystery begins to unravel, but so does Mia’s mental health as the clues dredge up her own haunted past.
It soon becomes evident that things aren’t as they seem � and people aren’t always who they say they are.
In the swamps of East Texas, alligators aren’t the only danger lurking in the shadows.
After a young woman is brutally attacked on a popular hiking trail, the evidence points to the notorious Black Cat Stalker. The town of Skull Hollow enlists Dr. Mia Frost to provide a psychological profile and assist in the investigation.
When another person goes missing, Mia partners with Easton Crew, former marine and current CEO of a tactical tracking company. Both Mia and Easton are stubborn, strong-willed, and independent, but neither can deny the smoldering attraction between them.
As professional lines blur, Easton starts to question Mia’s motives and worries she’s getting too close to the investigation. The mystery begins to unravel, but so does Mia’s mental health as the clues dredge up her own haunted past.
It soon becomes evident that things aren’t as they seem � and people aren’t always who they say they are.
339 pages, Paperback
First published September 20, 2022
728 people are currently reading
9027 people want to read
About the author
Amanda McKinney
43books915followersAmanda McKinney is the bestselling and multi-award-winning author of more than fifteen romantic suspense and mystery novels. Her latest book, Rattlesnake Road, was named one of POPSUGAR's 12 Best Romance Books to Have a Spring Fling With, and was featured on the Today Show. The fifth book in her Steele Shadows series, Jagger (Steele Shadows Investigations), was recently nominated for the prestigious Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Mystery/Suspense.
Amanda wrote her debut novel, LETHAL LEGACY in 2017, after walking away from her career to become a writer and stay-at-home mom. Her books include the bestselling series, STEELE SHADOWS SECURITY, the multi-award-winning BERRY SPRINGS series, BLACK ROSE MYSTERIES, and many more to come.
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.
Text AMANDABOOKS to 66866 to receive Amanda's newsletter and get the latest on new releases, promos, and freebies!
Visit her website at
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Follow Amanda on Facebook at
Amanda wrote her debut novel, LETHAL LEGACY in 2017, after walking away from her career to become a writer and stay-at-home mom. Her books include the bestselling series, STEELE SHADOWS SECURITY, the multi-award-winning BERRY SPRINGS series, BLACK ROSE MYSTERIES, and many more to come.
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.
Text AMANDABOOKS to 66866 to receive Amanda's newsletter and get the latest on new releases, promos, and freebies!
Visit her website at
Follow Amanda on Instagram at
Follow Amanda on Facebook at
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 226 reviews
December 4, 2023
3.5 Stars
When I read romantic suspense novels I look for a mix of mystery and chemistry between characters, and had both. While there were some small inconsistencies and a few trigger warnings to be aware of , I found myself speeding through this to try to figure out who did it and how Easton and Mia would fare. Overall, very enjoyable and I look forward to the next book in the series.
When I read romantic suspense novels I look for a mix of mystery and chemistry between characters, and had both. While there were some small inconsistencies and a few trigger warnings to be aware of , I found myself speeding through this to try to figure out who did it and how Easton and Mia would fare. Overall, very enjoyable and I look forward to the next book in the series.
September 22, 2022
I found the content matter of this story quite disturbing. Cue, graphic sexual assault scenes.
Narrated through the first person dual narrative of Mia, a psychologist, and Easton, owner of LYNX a tactical response company that trains soldiers in combat tracking and search & rescue.
Easton and his team are called in when a teenage girl goes missing on the infamous Black Cat Trail, a trail where women have previously been attacked by a person labelled as the Black Cat Stalker. He crosses paths with Mia Frost when she is called in to help police with criminal profiling.
There is a lot to unpack in this story. I was intrigued with the process of criminal profiling and also the search and rescue headed by Easton was interesting and seemed to be well researched.
What I couldn't come to grips with was the graphic sexual assault scenes and Easton's creepy stalking of Mia. (That's not love, that's just disturbing).
McKinney's themes of mental illness, PTSD and disassociate amnesia were interesting and well delivered.
I loved that I couldn't figure out who the Black Cat Stalker was. I changed my suspect three times during the book but never guessing right.
I didn't get into the story until abut the 60% mark but I feel it was wrapped up well with a satisfying ending.
*I received a copy from Netgalley
September 23, 2022
“Why am I a therapist?�
“Because I’m broken.�
I have read a couple of Amanda McKinney’s books, but never reviewed them. This is the best I have read…so far.
Mia is a psychologist, who owns and runs The Dragonfly Clinic, specializing in Ptsd and criminal profiling.
Chief is the founder of the LYNX Group, a combat tracking facility and search and rescue team. He has been called out by Skull Country Sheriff McNamara to help find Courtney Hayes, who is lost in the swamp. Could the Black Cat Stalker have upped his game. Instead of raping and walking away, he now rapes and kills.
I laughed at the way Chief’s operatives scare trespassers off his land.
I did have issues with some of her characterizations of people in the beginning of the book. It doesn’t fit with anything I’ve seen on true crime and rescue shows on TV. BUT, it is fiction and artistic license does apply. Maybe there is a reason. I vacillated between a three and four rating, but because I could not put it down until I found out the ending, it earned that extra star.
Once the mystery got going, I was so into it, I could hardly stop to, well, you know. I love looking into the human psyche and reading about damaged characters dealing with extreme trauma, and villains who deserve every bad thing that comes their way.
Amanda dealt with delicate topics, like brutal trauma, PTSD, rape, grief, loss, and so much more.
I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Buried Deception by Amanda McKinney.
“Because I’m broken.�
I have read a couple of Amanda McKinney’s books, but never reviewed them. This is the best I have read…so far.
Mia is a psychologist, who owns and runs The Dragonfly Clinic, specializing in Ptsd and criminal profiling.
Chief is the founder of the LYNX Group, a combat tracking facility and search and rescue team. He has been called out by Skull Country Sheriff McNamara to help find Courtney Hayes, who is lost in the swamp. Could the Black Cat Stalker have upped his game. Instead of raping and walking away, he now rapes and kills.
I laughed at the way Chief’s operatives scare trespassers off his land.
I did have issues with some of her characterizations of people in the beginning of the book. It doesn’t fit with anything I’ve seen on true crime and rescue shows on TV. BUT, it is fiction and artistic license does apply. Maybe there is a reason. I vacillated between a three and four rating, but because I could not put it down until I found out the ending, it earned that extra star.
Once the mystery got going, I was so into it, I could hardly stop to, well, you know. I love looking into the human psyche and reading about damaged characters dealing with extreme trauma, and villains who deserve every bad thing that comes their way.
Amanda dealt with delicate topics, like brutal trauma, PTSD, rape, grief, loss, and so much more.
I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Buried Deception by Amanda McKinney.
September 12, 2022
Thanks to Netgalley for a copy to review but... I have to be painfully honest.
Right, this was my introduction to this author and it was not my cup of tea.
We were immediately thrown into the POV and headspace of the male lead, a *clears throat, checks notes* man wearing unwashed-for-days khakis and a t-shirt with pit stains. SEXY. This is supposed to be a romantic thriller? Ha. Hygiene is my bare minimum. I don't care if it's real-to-life, this is a romance novel, lmao. The three men we immediately meet are all painfully cishet alpha male Texan Men. I now get why this was available as Read Now on Netgalley.
There is then a completely nonsensical passage as our lead guy and his multiple guns-toting buddy arrive at the search area for the book's opening crime. A toddler is running around, pantless, don't ask me why, and one of the men refers to "her", because of their long hair, and the other says no, it's a boy because it has a penis. Lmfao. This enby reader isn't doing this. DNFing.
For authors who write decent het romances that include diversity and men in the swampy south, with some light horror elements, I'd point people to Heather Graham, one of my favorites.
Right, this was my introduction to this author and it was not my cup of tea.
We were immediately thrown into the POV and headspace of the male lead, a *clears throat, checks notes* man wearing unwashed-for-days khakis and a t-shirt with pit stains. SEXY. This is supposed to be a romantic thriller? Ha. Hygiene is my bare minimum. I don't care if it's real-to-life, this is a romance novel, lmao. The three men we immediately meet are all painfully cishet alpha male Texan Men. I now get why this was available as Read Now on Netgalley.
There is then a completely nonsensical passage as our lead guy and his multiple guns-toting buddy arrive at the search area for the book's opening crime. A toddler is running around, pantless, don't ask me why, and one of the men refers to "her", because of their long hair, and the other says no, it's a boy because it has a penis. Lmfao. This enby reader isn't doing this. DNFing.
For authors who write decent het romances that include diversity and men in the swampy south, with some light horror elements, I'd point people to Heather Graham, one of my favorites.
August 21, 2022
"Buried Deception" was a novel with an excellent blend of action, crime, psychological thriller and romance. Dr. Mia Frost is a renowned psychologist known for her work with hypnotherapy and patients dealing with PTSD and dissociative amnesia. Little does the world know that she believes herself to be a fraud, silently struggling with the effects of her own trauma. The author has done an amazing job of creating a steadfast, successful character and slowly peeling back those layers to the point where the reader actually doubts the truth.
Mia works closely with Easton Crew, the perfect hero and ideal alpha male. He runs his own company dedicated to the search and rescue of missing persons, but he is also a man of mystery. He is extremely protective, but also empathetic and gentle-mannered when it counts. He too struggles with his own traumas, choosing to keep people at a distance for fear of suffering too much.
"Buried Deception" contains scenes detailing sexual assault and battery, stalking and kidnapping. It is a hard and graphic novel with a strong emotional impact.
As the professional merges with the love affair, Easton begins to doubt Mia's motives and fears she is becoming too involved in the investigation. As the mystery unravels and more clues emerge, we also discover Mia's past.
Let me start by saying that I really enjoyed this book. Once I started the novel, I had a hard time putting it down. It's full of suspense and twists that you definitely won't see coming. Just when you think you've got it figured out, you'll be thrown for another loop.
Thanks to Amanda McKinney, Montlake Publishing & NetGalley for allowing me to have an advance copy. I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
Mia works closely with Easton Crew, the perfect hero and ideal alpha male. He runs his own company dedicated to the search and rescue of missing persons, but he is also a man of mystery. He is extremely protective, but also empathetic and gentle-mannered when it counts. He too struggles with his own traumas, choosing to keep people at a distance for fear of suffering too much.
"Buried Deception" contains scenes detailing sexual assault and battery, stalking and kidnapping. It is a hard and graphic novel with a strong emotional impact.
As the professional merges with the love affair, Easton begins to doubt Mia's motives and fears she is becoming too involved in the investigation. As the mystery unravels and more clues emerge, we also discover Mia's past.
Let me start by saying that I really enjoyed this book. Once I started the novel, I had a hard time putting it down. It's full of suspense and twists that you definitely won't see coming. Just when you think you've got it figured out, you'll be thrown for another loop.
Thanks to Amanda McKinney, Montlake Publishing & NetGalley for allowing me to have an advance copy. I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
May 24, 2022
The mystery part was interesting but the romance was so lacking. I also couldn't get over the fact that he spied on her and watched her for a month before he met her like that's actually so creepy where is the restraining order
April 29, 2023
I never saw that coming. It was good!
November 13, 2022
Sinister, intricate, and intense!
In this compelling first instalment in the On the Edge series, Buried Deception, McKinney has written a tortuous whodunit that sees Dr. Mia Frost reluctantly relying on former marine Easton Crew when the past and present collide, everyone seems to be hiding something, suspects are in abundance, and danger lurks around every corner.
The writing is menacing and tight. The characters are consumed, persistent, and dependable. And the plot keeps you on the edge of your seat as it submerges you, page after page, into a world of murder, abduction, arrogance, rape, violence, terror, deception, palpable chemistry, and a side of steamy romance.
Overall, Buried Deception is an addictive, engrossing, thrilling start to what may just become a must-read series for me with its flawed characters, great pace, and consistent sense of urgency.
Thank you to Thomas Allen & Son for gifting me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
In this compelling first instalment in the On the Edge series, Buried Deception, McKinney has written a tortuous whodunit that sees Dr. Mia Frost reluctantly relying on former marine Easton Crew when the past and present collide, everyone seems to be hiding something, suspects are in abundance, and danger lurks around every corner.
The writing is menacing and tight. The characters are consumed, persistent, and dependable. And the plot keeps you on the edge of your seat as it submerges you, page after page, into a world of murder, abduction, arrogance, rape, violence, terror, deception, palpable chemistry, and a side of steamy romance.
Overall, Buried Deception is an addictive, engrossing, thrilling start to what may just become a must-read series for me with its flawed characters, great pace, and consistent sense of urgency.
Thank you to Thomas Allen & Son for gifting me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 31, 2022
The first in a new series by Amanda McKinney, 'Buried Deception' is the first book I have ever read from the popular author but certainly not the last!
Danger and intrigue intermingle in the small town of Skull Hollow, Texas where multiple assaults against women have everyone on edge (haha, the name of the series is 'On the Edge'�.get it). After a particularly brutal attack on a teenager, Dr. Mia Frost is called in by the local police department as she specializes in dealing with such cases. The police are also using the skills of Easton Crew, a former Marine who runs a tactical tracking company. Sparks fly when these two powerhouses meet; however Mia has a secret from the past which threatens to blow up her career and her burgeoning relationship with Easton.
I really enjoyed the pacing of this novel, from beginning to end there were many moments filled with action and tension. It perfectly fell into the genres of suspense and mystery, and I was never disappointed. I also enjoyed that the romance between our two main protagonists never overshadowed the main plotline; yes, their budding relationship was prominent in the book, but the overarching mystery was the main feature.
I took away one star from the overall rating because there were too many instances of drawn-out (in my opinion) explanations of scientific happenings. Yes, it is always nice to see that an author has done research to lend credibility to their novel, but I had to skip over some of these passages as they became a little tedious to read.
Taking all of the above into consideration, I give 'Buried Deception' a rating of 4 stars. I enjoyed this book for the most part, especially since it's in my favorite genre however, I wish there had been a little less scientific jargon. This is suitable for persons 18 years and older due to sensitive topics. There are instances of profanity and vivid sexual acts, further lending credence to suitability for adults. Trigger warnings include: rape and violence. McKinney has definitely made a new fan in me and I await the second book in this series with bated breath!
*A great many thanks to BookSirens, 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.*
Danger and intrigue intermingle in the small town of Skull Hollow, Texas where multiple assaults against women have everyone on edge (haha, the name of the series is 'On the Edge'�.get it). After a particularly brutal attack on a teenager, Dr. Mia Frost is called in by the local police department as she specializes in dealing with such cases. The police are also using the skills of Easton Crew, a former Marine who runs a tactical tracking company. Sparks fly when these two powerhouses meet; however Mia has a secret from the past which threatens to blow up her career and her burgeoning relationship with Easton.
I really enjoyed the pacing of this novel, from beginning to end there were many moments filled with action and tension. It perfectly fell into the genres of suspense and mystery, and I was never disappointed. I also enjoyed that the romance between our two main protagonists never overshadowed the main plotline; yes, their budding relationship was prominent in the book, but the overarching mystery was the main feature.
I took away one star from the overall rating because there were too many instances of drawn-out (in my opinion) explanations of scientific happenings. Yes, it is always nice to see that an author has done research to lend credibility to their novel, but I had to skip over some of these passages as they became a little tedious to read.
Taking all of the above into consideration, I give 'Buried Deception' a rating of 4 stars. I enjoyed this book for the most part, especially since it's in my favorite genre however, I wish there had been a little less scientific jargon. This is suitable for persons 18 years and older due to sensitive topics. There are instances of profanity and vivid sexual acts, further lending credence to suitability for adults. Trigger warnings include: rape and violence. McKinney has definitely made a new fan in me and I await the second book in this series with bated breath!
*A great many thanks to BookSirens, 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.*
September 20, 2022
"There were too many pieces being added to the puzzle, and the problem was that none of them seemed to fit."
Are you looking for a book that will hook you from the very first line, one that will keep you guessing throughout and will make your mind race with the endless possibilities, that will make you the most suspicious person by second guessing literally everything that is happening, and all of that while simultaneously slowly falling in love with the main characters who start bonding and finding their safe haven in each other? Well, then look no further, because this book brings you everything I've just described.
Buried Deception is an amazingly thrilling romantic suspense novel set in the small town of Skull Hollow, that will try to make you answer the question the whole town is in uproar about: Who is the Black Cat stalker? Who has been stalking young girls while hiking, but seems to have suddenly changed his MO when a young girl goes missing in the swamps? But also, what does this all have to do with dr. Mia Frost, the towns rather unconventional psychologist, who keeps having strong trauma responses, including flashbacks and anxiety attacks, but gets called in by the police to interview the rescued girl and provide a psychological profile of the Black Cat Stalker, solely because the girl had booked an appointment at Dr. Frosts office the following week? And what is former military officer and CEO of a search and rescue unit, Easton Crew's role in all os this, apart from rescuing the missing girl and teaming up with Mia when another one of her patients goes missing?
These are just a few of the questions that kept raging through my mind while reading. The mysterious writing style succeeds at making you think you've figured it all out by throwing little bread crumbs of suspicious information at you, to then later on present you with new facts that will make you doubt everything once again... It all culminates in an ending you probably won't have seen coming, but may have suspected even though you were thrown off the scent right after (like me).
Amanda McKinney isn't only masterful at deceptive twists and turns, she also excels at incorporating the exact right amount of research she has done into various psychological and criminological subjects, such as PTSD, dissociative amnesia, sexual abuse, psychological profiling, hypnosis, etc. to further the story while holding your hand through it all. I must tip my hat at her for writing some excellent depictions of trauma responses, such as a triggered flashback and anxiety attacks.
Now, was this book perfect from a psychological standpoint? No, but there weren't any major disinformations that made my rating go down. However, I'll go over a few things that bothered me or that I would like to clarify for those of you that are interested. Mia is said to be an unconventional therapist as she uses hypnosis and CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) to treat PTSD, when CBT is actually still a mainstream treatment lots of psychologists use to treat PTSD (alongside EMDR and body-focused therapy treatments that are gaining in popularity). The chapters describing sessions between the therapist and client were amazing to add to the mystery aspect, but contained reactions from the therapist that weren't optimal. For example, I think we can all agree that begging someone to open up will likely not be very effective, especially in therapy. Therapists are firm believers in letting clients decide what they feel safe to share. We will not pressure people into opening up, because we believe they will open up when they feel safe enough to do so. Sometimes a few corners were cut in explanations or statements. The biggest one was an oversimplification of how to heal from trauma, which one of the characters said would be to just accept what had happened. While that is definitely an important part of the process, there's actually a lot more that goes into healing trauma, such as dealing with the effects it had on the body (which had been beautifully mentioned in the book). Another oversimplification was the scene at the tree at the end of the book (which I'll keep very vague to prevent spoiling it, but if you've read it, you'll know which one I'm talking about). Although it was certainly a beautifully romantic scene, from a psychological standpoint it was lacking as such a situation would have elicited a lot more trauma response in both characters. Also, it quite bothered me that one of them decided that they were ready to take the next step in their healing journey and kind of made the other join them in their journey, even though they may not have been ready. But hey, it's fiction and we can't expect everything to be perfect. I did appreciate that the diagnosis was more plausible than it was in Rattlesnake Road. And honestly, these were just small things in a book that was heavily infused with lots of psychological themes and information. I must credit the author for the amount of research she has done and put into this book to make the story work the way it did.
"Two imperfect disasters that somehow, when united, found absolute peace."
As this is a romantic suspense, the romance part needs to be discussed as well. I think the mystery aspect is the most prominent in the book, with the romance being more of a subplot. Also, do not go into this book expecting a fluffy romance story, or you'll be very disappointed. However, if you like slightly twisted romance stories between two traumatized and hurt people trying to figure out what is happening, trying desperately to keep it together and finding they can let down the defenses in the presence of the other solely because they make them feel safe, this will be your cup of tea.
I'd suggest you read this book if you like:
- Romantic suspense
- Twisted romance
- Heavy in psychology and criminology
- Lots of twists and turns, unforeseen events that will throw everything off course
- You're mine
- You're the only one who makes me feel safe
- Shows such as Criminal Minds, Perception and Lie To Me (or others that focus on solving a mystery by using profiling and psychological information/studies...)
Please beware of the following trigger warnings: sexual violence (past and present, descriptive), stalking, PTSD, trauma responses, anxiety attacks, attempt at murder, child abuse (descriptive, in the past)
Have you read this and you need more of it? Try Rattlesnake Road by Amanda McKinney, or Moonshot or Black Lies by Alessandra Torre. Both authors excel at writing twisty romances with lots of mystery and plot twists that will keep you guessing.
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book that I received from the publisher through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.* Thank you!
Are you looking for a book that will hook you from the very first line, one that will keep you guessing throughout and will make your mind race with the endless possibilities, that will make you the most suspicious person by second guessing literally everything that is happening, and all of that while simultaneously slowly falling in love with the main characters who start bonding and finding their safe haven in each other? Well, then look no further, because this book brings you everything I've just described.
Buried Deception is an amazingly thrilling romantic suspense novel set in the small town of Skull Hollow, that will try to make you answer the question the whole town is in uproar about: Who is the Black Cat stalker? Who has been stalking young girls while hiking, but seems to have suddenly changed his MO when a young girl goes missing in the swamps? But also, what does this all have to do with dr. Mia Frost, the towns rather unconventional psychologist, who keeps having strong trauma responses, including flashbacks and anxiety attacks, but gets called in by the police to interview the rescued girl and provide a psychological profile of the Black Cat Stalker, solely because the girl had booked an appointment at Dr. Frosts office the following week? And what is former military officer and CEO of a search and rescue unit, Easton Crew's role in all os this, apart from rescuing the missing girl and teaming up with Mia when another one of her patients goes missing?
These are just a few of the questions that kept raging through my mind while reading. The mysterious writing style succeeds at making you think you've figured it all out by throwing little bread crumbs of suspicious information at you, to then later on present you with new facts that will make you doubt everything once again... It all culminates in an ending you probably won't have seen coming, but may have suspected even though you were thrown off the scent right after (like me).
Amanda McKinney isn't only masterful at deceptive twists and turns, she also excels at incorporating the exact right amount of research she has done into various psychological and criminological subjects, such as PTSD, dissociative amnesia, sexual abuse, psychological profiling, hypnosis, etc. to further the story while holding your hand through it all. I must tip my hat at her for writing some excellent depictions of trauma responses, such as a triggered flashback and anxiety attacks.
Now, was this book perfect from a psychological standpoint? No, but there weren't any major disinformations that made my rating go down. However, I'll go over a few things that bothered me or that I would like to clarify for those of you that are interested. Mia is said to be an unconventional therapist as she uses hypnosis and CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) to treat PTSD, when CBT is actually still a mainstream treatment lots of psychologists use to treat PTSD (alongside EMDR and body-focused therapy treatments that are gaining in popularity). The chapters describing sessions between the therapist and client were amazing to add to the mystery aspect, but contained reactions from the therapist that weren't optimal. For example, I think we can all agree that begging someone to open up will likely not be very effective, especially in therapy. Therapists are firm believers in letting clients decide what they feel safe to share. We will not pressure people into opening up, because we believe they will open up when they feel safe enough to do so. Sometimes a few corners were cut in explanations or statements. The biggest one was an oversimplification of how to heal from trauma, which one of the characters said would be to just accept what had happened. While that is definitely an important part of the process, there's actually a lot more that goes into healing trauma, such as dealing with the effects it had on the body (which had been beautifully mentioned in the book). Another oversimplification was the scene at the tree at the end of the book (which I'll keep very vague to prevent spoiling it, but if you've read it, you'll know which one I'm talking about). Although it was certainly a beautifully romantic scene, from a psychological standpoint it was lacking as such a situation would have elicited a lot more trauma response in both characters. Also, it quite bothered me that one of them decided that they were ready to take the next step in their healing journey and kind of made the other join them in their journey, even though they may not have been ready. But hey, it's fiction and we can't expect everything to be perfect. I did appreciate that the diagnosis was more plausible than it was in Rattlesnake Road. And honestly, these were just small things in a book that was heavily infused with lots of psychological themes and information. I must credit the author for the amount of research she has done and put into this book to make the story work the way it did.
"Two imperfect disasters that somehow, when united, found absolute peace."
As this is a romantic suspense, the romance part needs to be discussed as well. I think the mystery aspect is the most prominent in the book, with the romance being more of a subplot. Also, do not go into this book expecting a fluffy romance story, or you'll be very disappointed. However, if you like slightly twisted romance stories between two traumatized and hurt people trying to figure out what is happening, trying desperately to keep it together and finding they can let down the defenses in the presence of the other solely because they make them feel safe, this will be your cup of tea.
I'd suggest you read this book if you like:
- Romantic suspense
- Twisted romance
- Heavy in psychology and criminology
- Lots of twists and turns, unforeseen events that will throw everything off course
- You're mine
- You're the only one who makes me feel safe
- Shows such as Criminal Minds, Perception and Lie To Me (or others that focus on solving a mystery by using profiling and psychological information/studies...)
Please beware of the following trigger warnings: sexual violence (past and present, descriptive), stalking, PTSD, trauma responses, anxiety attacks, attempt at murder, child abuse (descriptive, in the past)
Have you read this and you need more of it? Try Rattlesnake Road by Amanda McKinney, or Moonshot or Black Lies by Alessandra Torre. Both authors excel at writing twisty romances with lots of mystery and plot twists that will keep you guessing.
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book that I received from the publisher through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.* Thank you!
August 30, 2022
Wow!
Gripping and suspenseful right from the beginning!
This is certainly a story filled with so many twists and turns! Talk about a gruesome,dark and totally intense read! I was constantly thinking where is this going.
The two main characters, Mia and Easton, kept me engaged throughout the story. What they both have been through is unfathomable. Loved their relationship from the beginning to the end.
Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Gripping and suspenseful right from the beginning!
This is certainly a story filled with so many twists and turns! Talk about a gruesome,dark and totally intense read! I was constantly thinking where is this going.
The two main characters, Mia and Easton, kept me engaged throughout the story. What they both have been through is unfathomable. Loved their relationship from the beginning to the end.
Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
September 7, 2022
First off, thank you BookSirens for giving me an ARC of this book.
Buried Deception is my first book from this author. The storytelling is fantastic. I never read a book in the genre of romantic suspense before. But I'm glad I tried this genre out. I really enjoy the romance side and the suspense side.
Buried Deception is my first book from this author. The storytelling is fantastic. I never read a book in the genre of romantic suspense before. But I'm glad I tried this genre out. I really enjoy the romance side and the suspense side.
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September 5, 2023I noped out about 75 or so pages into this one. This one is most emphatically not for me. The graphic sexual assault of a teenager was something I just could not handle having in my mind, so I decided not to get any further into this serial stalker story.
Since I quit this early on, I can't speak to the romance side of this romantic suspense because even though I was several chapters into it, the hero and heroine hadn't really met yet.
Since I quit this early on, I can't speak to the romance side of this romantic suspense because even though I was several chapters into it, the hero and heroine hadn't really met yet.
August 7, 2022
This is my first novel by this author and I’m a bit ambivalent, even days after finishing it. While marketed as a mystery romance, I viewed it more as a psychological thriller with a romantic element. And for me, that element left something to be desired, especially with the H secretly watching over the h long before they entered into a relationship. I understand his reasoning, but it was still somewhat unsettling.
The suspense element is done exceptionally well, with many, many jaw-dropping, WTH moments as Mia and Easton work to find the Black Cat Stalker. There are some excellent misdirects and the ending is a huge mind freak that left me reeling. The rural law enforcement seemed spot on and was entertaining, if frustrating, in their efforts to solve the case.
The writing style is not my favorite, with much more telling than showing and repetitive introspection. I know some readers love this, so I’m sure this won’t be an issue for those who do. I’m also not the smartest reader in the room, even with a master’s degree in education, but it felt like an ongoing vocabulary lesson with the words whose meanings I had to look up. Also not a problem, but it did interrupt my reading flow.
The dialog and action certainly kept my attention riveted to the story, and I was compelled to continue reading until the bad guy was finally revealed. I’m in awe of a mind that can craft a story with so many twists and surprises that keep the reader guessing until the very end. And what an ending it was! I’m still in shock.
As for my recommendation, if you’re they kind of reader who has no problem with the things I’ve pointed out, you’ll love this one. It will keep you on the edge of your seat, reading eagerly until the dramatic conclusion.
The suspense element is done exceptionally well, with many, many jaw-dropping, WTH moments as Mia and Easton work to find the Black Cat Stalker. There are some excellent misdirects and the ending is a huge mind freak that left me reeling. The rural law enforcement seemed spot on and was entertaining, if frustrating, in their efforts to solve the case.
The writing style is not my favorite, with much more telling than showing and repetitive introspection. I know some readers love this, so I’m sure this won’t be an issue for those who do. I’m also not the smartest reader in the room, even with a master’s degree in education, but it felt like an ongoing vocabulary lesson with the words whose meanings I had to look up. Also not a problem, but it did interrupt my reading flow.
The dialog and action certainly kept my attention riveted to the story, and I was compelled to continue reading until the bad guy was finally revealed. I’m in awe of a mind that can craft a story with so many twists and surprises that keep the reader guessing until the very end. And what an ending it was! I’m still in shock.
As for my recommendation, if you’re they kind of reader who has no problem with the things I’ve pointed out, you’ll love this one. It will keep you on the edge of your seat, reading eagerly until the dramatic conclusion.
August 18, 2022
BURIED DECEPTION has a way of capturing your interest and holding you completely enthralled from start to finish. If it were possible to give it more than 5 stars, I would!! The descriptive narrative pulls you effortlessly into each scene, easily drawing out your emotions. While the complexity of Mia’s and Easton’s characters and the evocative drama surrounding their relationship is enough to keep you thoroughly engaged, when you throw in the suspense and inherent danger of a mysterious stalker and unknown threat, you have a combination that is sure to hold you enthralled throughout this compelling tale. This is a fast-paced read that will not only have you totally involved but will also make it nearly impossible to put down.
June 22, 2022
“𝑹𝒖𝒍� 𝒏𝒖𝒎𝒃𝒆𝒓 𝒐𝒏𝒆: 𝑨𝒍𝒘𝒂𝒚𝒔 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒄𝒂𝒏 𝒂𝒃𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒐𝒏 𝒚𝒐𝒖’𝒓� 𝒉𝒖𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈.�
Buried Deception byAmanda Mckinney
Coming Sept 20, 2022
⚠️ trigger warnings ⚠️- sexual assault, child abuse, stalking, etc
Synopsis:
The evidence points to the notorious Black Cat Stalker after a young woman is viciously assaulted on a popular hiking trail. Skull Hollow hires Dr. Mia Frost to conduct a psychological profile and aid with the investigation.
When another person mysteriously disappears, Mia teams up with Easton Crew, a former marine who is now the CEO of a tactical tracking firm. Mia and Easton are both stubborn, strong-willed, and self-sufficient, but neither can deny their smouldering attraction.
As professional lines blur, Easton begins to doubt Mia's motives and fears she is becoming too involved in the investigation. As the mystery unravels, Mia's mental health suffers as the clues unearth her own tormented history.
Let me start off by saying that I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Once I started, I could not put it down and finished it in one day. It is full of suspense and plot twists that you definitely will not see coming. Just when to think you have it worked out you will be thrown for a loop.😲 But my main question is where can I find me a guy like Easton and the other LYNX guys. Im sorry but Goldie might have stolen the show.🦜 I can’t wait for the next book of Amanda Mckinney's. 💯 recommend this story to everyone.😘🤌
I received a arc of the book from the author.
Buried Deception byAmanda Mckinney
Coming Sept 20, 2022
⚠️ trigger warnings ⚠️- sexual assault, child abuse, stalking, etc
Synopsis:
The evidence points to the notorious Black Cat Stalker after a young woman is viciously assaulted on a popular hiking trail. Skull Hollow hires Dr. Mia Frost to conduct a psychological profile and aid with the investigation.
When another person mysteriously disappears, Mia teams up with Easton Crew, a former marine who is now the CEO of a tactical tracking firm. Mia and Easton are both stubborn, strong-willed, and self-sufficient, but neither can deny their smouldering attraction.
As professional lines blur, Easton begins to doubt Mia's motives and fears she is becoming too involved in the investigation. As the mystery unravels, Mia's mental health suffers as the clues unearth her own tormented history.
Let me start off by saying that I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Once I started, I could not put it down and finished it in one day. It is full of suspense and plot twists that you definitely will not see coming. Just when to think you have it worked out you will be thrown for a loop.😲 But my main question is where can I find me a guy like Easton and the other LYNX guys. Im sorry but Goldie might have stolen the show.🦜 I can’t wait for the next book of Amanda Mckinney's. 💯 recommend this story to everyone.😘🤌
I received a arc of the book from the author.
June 3, 2022
Warning � don’t start reading this book if you don’t have time to finish it in the same day! I started this at 8 pm and couldn’t make myself set it down and go to bed until I finished it.
Those with triggers regarding violence and sexual assault should be aware that those two things drive them main plot points of this novel.
Buried Deception was a great mix of action, crime, psychological thriller, and romance. Dr. Mia Frost is a renowned psychologist known for her work with hypnotherapy and patients dealing with PTSD and disassociative amnesia. Little does the world know that she believes herself a fraud, struggling silently with the effects of her own trauma. There’s very little I love more in a thriller (or any book, really) than an unreliable narrator. The author did an amazing job creating a steadfast, successful character and slowly peeling back those layers to the point that the reader is doubting her word.
The male lead, Easton Crew, is the perfect alpha romance hero. He runs his own company devoted to search and rescue but is also a man of mystery. He is fiercely protective but also empathetic and soft mannered when it counts.
I really hope the author plans to write more books in this world. I’d love to see adventures focused on Crew’s colleagues.
Those with triggers regarding violence and sexual assault should be aware that those two things drive them main plot points of this novel.
Buried Deception was a great mix of action, crime, psychological thriller, and romance. Dr. Mia Frost is a renowned psychologist known for her work with hypnotherapy and patients dealing with PTSD and disassociative amnesia. Little does the world know that she believes herself a fraud, struggling silently with the effects of her own trauma. There’s very little I love more in a thriller (or any book, really) than an unreliable narrator. The author did an amazing job creating a steadfast, successful character and slowly peeling back those layers to the point that the reader is doubting her word.
The male lead, Easton Crew, is the perfect alpha romance hero. He runs his own company devoted to search and rescue but is also a man of mystery. He is fiercely protective but also empathetic and soft mannered when it counts.
I really hope the author plans to write more books in this world. I’d love to see adventures focused on Crew’s colleagues.
May 31, 2022
I was able to read this for free thanks to Net Galley, although that does not affect my opinion of the actual book. I picked this book up after falling in love with the cover, title, and description. Unfortunately, it took me a couple of chapters to really get into it. I know I’m not the smartest person to exist, however the author used quite a few words that made no sense to me and probably could have been changed for an easier read. There was also a lot of bad language, which I don’t think was necessary every time. The chemistry between the two main characters didn’t feel right either. This book was a miss for me.
May 21, 2022
I was hooked from the beginning of this story, it completely gripped me. With a missing teen, LYNX security is on the case with Easton leading the crew. This ex military hero is the perfect man to lead the search and when him and Mia make a connection I know it is going to get good. Secrets are uncovered and as the plot thickens you will find yourself flipping page after page. While this story doesn't have much spice, the suspense is top notch! A great start to a new series.
August 23, 2022
Buried Deception was incredible in so many ways, starting with its characters. The way that Mia described not only her own trauma but trauma in general, was so beautiful and raw. Amanda McKinney writes with so much truth woven into her characters and story that it would be difficult not to get sucked in. Add in the mystery and the genuine intrigue of the story and you had me completely lost in the pages.
Easton was so reserved with others, I expected him to have a long and difficult road when it came to trusting Mia. But there seemed to be something about her that pulled him in and took all his defenses out. And I love when the tough guy gets deep! Especially when it's someone he's attracted to. Mia certainly smashed through all Easton's walls. He was also a natural hero. But one who didn't realize how much of a hero he was. There were some jaded feelings from his own past. But he was also naturally protective over those he felt responsible for. And Mia was most one of those people quickly. More than that, he had a firm belief in right and wrong. And no one was going to sway him. So his job as CEO of a tactical tracking company made sense. As did his past as a marine.
The fact that Mia took her own trauma and situation and turned them into a way to help others was admirable. But it was also relatable. Because so many people take what they've been through and turn it into a career of helping others. Making sure they don't go through the same types of situations. Or helping them recover once they have. It made Mia an admirable character and a very memorable one too. Because when you read a lot of novels, it can be hard to remember all the characters you've read about. But Mia is going to be one I always remember. Because she is fierce, professional, and tough. But also allowed herself to be vulnerable and open with someone else. And I think that's pretty impressive. It was also clear she was a very talented psychologist and natural profiler.
The mystery and setting of the novel were creepy as hell. A stalker in the woods is a terrifying premise, to begin with. But add in that it's happening in the foggy and naturally eerie setting of the swamplands in East Texas? Yeah, that made for a pretty terrifying mystery. But in the best way possible, because I'm a sucker for a mystery that gives me chills, and this one provided that in spades. Every moment had me getting into it deeper and deeper. You know an author has a true gift when the real world around you fades away and you find yourself completely immersed in the world they have presented to you. That's what happened with this book and it made for an even better experience. I was lost within these pages and did not want to be found.
Easton and Mia have both had traumas in their lives and while they did their best not to be affected by the case while investigating, that's easier said than done. Especially for Mia who was feeling her past blend into the situation in front of her in the present. It was understandable why Easton was concerned about things in that case. But Mia was also an extremely capable and strong character. So when the two of them teamed up, I knew there was going to be some intense sparks flying. And I was so happy to be right. Their interactions were bursting at the seams with tension. It was clear pretty much from the moment they teamed up to work on the case, that things between them were going to go way beyond professional.
This novel checked all of my boxes and then some when it comes to finding a good book. It had a beautiful romance intertwined with an intriguing and terrifying mystery. But it also had so much depth and emotion on every page. The mystery kept me riveted to the pages for the entire length of the novel and the ending was satisfying. This is listed as book one and I cannot wait for there to be more books in this series. Because I absolutely will be reading all of them. And while this is the first book by Amanda McKinney I have ever read, it most certainly is not going to be the last. She has found another fan in me and is absolutely being added to my favorite author list.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Easton was so reserved with others, I expected him to have a long and difficult road when it came to trusting Mia. But there seemed to be something about her that pulled him in and took all his defenses out. And I love when the tough guy gets deep! Especially when it's someone he's attracted to. Mia certainly smashed through all Easton's walls. He was also a natural hero. But one who didn't realize how much of a hero he was. There were some jaded feelings from his own past. But he was also naturally protective over those he felt responsible for. And Mia was most one of those people quickly. More than that, he had a firm belief in right and wrong. And no one was going to sway him. So his job as CEO of a tactical tracking company made sense. As did his past as a marine.
The fact that Mia took her own trauma and situation and turned them into a way to help others was admirable. But it was also relatable. Because so many people take what they've been through and turn it into a career of helping others. Making sure they don't go through the same types of situations. Or helping them recover once they have. It made Mia an admirable character and a very memorable one too. Because when you read a lot of novels, it can be hard to remember all the characters you've read about. But Mia is going to be one I always remember. Because she is fierce, professional, and tough. But also allowed herself to be vulnerable and open with someone else. And I think that's pretty impressive. It was also clear she was a very talented psychologist and natural profiler.
The mystery and setting of the novel were creepy as hell. A stalker in the woods is a terrifying premise, to begin with. But add in that it's happening in the foggy and naturally eerie setting of the swamplands in East Texas? Yeah, that made for a pretty terrifying mystery. But in the best way possible, because I'm a sucker for a mystery that gives me chills, and this one provided that in spades. Every moment had me getting into it deeper and deeper. You know an author has a true gift when the real world around you fades away and you find yourself completely immersed in the world they have presented to you. That's what happened with this book and it made for an even better experience. I was lost within these pages and did not want to be found.
Easton and Mia have both had traumas in their lives and while they did their best not to be affected by the case while investigating, that's easier said than done. Especially for Mia who was feeling her past blend into the situation in front of her in the present. It was understandable why Easton was concerned about things in that case. But Mia was also an extremely capable and strong character. So when the two of them teamed up, I knew there was going to be some intense sparks flying. And I was so happy to be right. Their interactions were bursting at the seams with tension. It was clear pretty much from the moment they teamed up to work on the case, that things between them were going to go way beyond professional.
This novel checked all of my boxes and then some when it comes to finding a good book. It had a beautiful romance intertwined with an intriguing and terrifying mystery. But it also had so much depth and emotion on every page. The mystery kept me riveted to the pages for the entire length of the novel and the ending was satisfying. This is listed as book one and I cannot wait for there to be more books in this series. Because I absolutely will be reading all of them. And while this is the first book by Amanda McKinney I have ever read, it most certainly is not going to be the last. She has found another fan in me and is absolutely being added to my favorite author list.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 10, 2022
Check out our full post for on Wicked Reads.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Avid Reader � ☆☆☆☆
M/F Mystery
Triggers: Hidden because they may contain spoilers.
This book grabs you from the start. Despite the brutality of the crime, you know that there is an underlying network in this small town.
Easton and his group are well known for their ability to track people through the tough forest in the area. The group is less in your face than I expected, but it was a nice surprise. I liked that the group was mentioned but didn't take a front seat.
Easton is a complicated leader. He knows that his job is important, but with a trauma in his recent past, Easton also knows that he doesn't ever want to be too late again.
Mia is an up and coming psychologist in the area and while she wants to help those around her, she is constantly battling her own demons. The Mia that everyone sees during the day is not the same Mia that is present at night.
When the past and present collide for Mia, it will take all of her training and trust to figure out what to do now and how to move forward.
These two, with their pasts haunting them, will need to learn to lean on each other and weave their way through grief and guilt.
I really enjoyed this story. I am looking forward to seeing what more this series has in store.
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
September 6, 2022
This is a good romantic suspense, but be warned that it's pretty brutal (see trigger warnings at the very end). It follows PTSD expert psychologist/hypnotherapist Mia and search and rescue guru Easton as they try to figure out the truth behind a horrific assault against a local teenager, an assault that triggers Mia's own PTSD.
The romantic parts are bittersweet--Mia and Easton open up to each other in ways they hadn't to anyone else--though their connection seems rushed. There doesn't seem to be much buildup to justify the trust they feel to ultimately confide in each other, especially on Mia's part. For his, Easton has spent a rather disturbingly long time obsessed with Mia (before ever meeting her). He sort of admits to himself it's stalkerish, but because it stems from a protectiveness he feels, we're supposed to be okay with it. And while I hate to admit it, I sort of was.
Mia is tragic in so many ways, with what to me seems like an unhealthy obsession with birds. In spite of what becomes a therapeutic relationship with Easton, I can't help but feel like she needs more help. I suspect there will be more in this series though, and maybe the author will drop a nugget to that regard.
The birds--the sheer quantity--kind of creep me out.
But the story reads well--I finished it in a few hours--and it's hard to put down. It's a good choice if you like romantic suspense or suspenseful romance. If you are in the fence, maybe take a pass.
I received an ARC of this book for free from the publisher, BookSirens, and Netgalley. I'm writing this review voluntarily, and it reflects my honest opinion. Thanks!
Trigger warnings: Rape, sodomy, child sexual abuse, PTSD, death, violence
The romantic parts are bittersweet--Mia and Easton open up to each other in ways they hadn't to anyone else--though their connection seems rushed. There doesn't seem to be much buildup to justify the trust they feel to ultimately confide in each other, especially on Mia's part. For his, Easton has spent a rather disturbingly long time obsessed with Mia (before ever meeting her). He sort of admits to himself it's stalkerish, but because it stems from a protectiveness he feels, we're supposed to be okay with it. And while I hate to admit it, I sort of was.
Mia is tragic in so many ways, with what to me seems like an unhealthy obsession with birds. In spite of what becomes a therapeutic relationship with Easton, I can't help but feel like she needs more help. I suspect there will be more in this series though, and maybe the author will drop a nugget to that regard.
The birds--the sheer quantity--kind of creep me out.
But the story reads well--I finished it in a few hours--and it's hard to put down. It's a good choice if you like romantic suspense or suspenseful romance. If you are in the fence, maybe take a pass.
I received an ARC of this book for free from the publisher, BookSirens, and Netgalley. I'm writing this review voluntarily, and it reflects my honest opinion. Thanks!
Trigger warnings: Rape, sodomy, child sexual abuse, PTSD, death, violence
September 10, 2022
I want to start this off with a HUGE ⚠️ content warning ⚠️ for rape/sexual assault. I was personally not expecting how upfront and blunt this part of the story would be, so I want to be sure that it’s clear here at the start. I almost considered removing a half star just because of this. I think some things could’ve been described in a softer, less graphic way.
Anyway, overall I wanted more from this book. The romance unfortunately never reached its peak for me and while I did like this couple together, they just didn’t excel. There is a lot of plot building before we actually get to their romance but then once we do it feels like the true growth of their relationship happens off page. I would’ve like to see their relationship develop more rather than having the characters just tell us they’ve been spending so much time together.
The mystery was interesting and I appreciated the elements of tracking and psychotherapy, learning about that was interesting, but I wasn’t really surprised by the reveal of who the Black Cat stalker was and felt we didn’t really do that much mystery solving. Our characters are basically just told who the perp is. I would’ve liked to see more of these two solving the mystery together.
If you’re a romantic suspense fan, and are okay with the more graphic content, I’d say give this a try but it wouldn’t be my top recommendation for the genre!
I received an eARC for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Anyway, overall I wanted more from this book. The romance unfortunately never reached its peak for me and while I did like this couple together, they just didn’t excel. There is a lot of plot building before we actually get to their romance but then once we do it feels like the true growth of their relationship happens off page. I would’ve like to see their relationship develop more rather than having the characters just tell us they’ve been spending so much time together.
The mystery was interesting and I appreciated the elements of tracking and psychotherapy, learning about that was interesting, but I wasn’t really surprised by the reveal of who the Black Cat stalker was and felt we didn’t really do that much mystery solving. Our characters are basically just told who the perp is. I would’ve liked to see more of these two solving the mystery together.
If you’re a romantic suspense fan, and are okay with the more graphic content, I’d say give this a try but it wouldn’t be my top recommendation for the genre!
I received an eARC for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 11, 2022
4.5�
Buried Deception is my first book by author Amanda McKinney, and it's an intriguing and beautifully descriptive one. That enticed me in and kept me engaged throughout.
As Easton a former marine and owner of LYNX. A tracking company that teaches law enforcement and the military how to track predators of all kinds in the swamp ridden terrain of East Texas. Joins forces with local psychologist Dr Mia Frost. To hunt for a man nicknamed the Black Cat Stalker after a teenage girl is brutally raped on the Black Cat Trail.
But when one of Mia's clients disappears, Easton begins to wonder what is going on. As this guy doesn't fit Mia's profile and Mia seems oddly and overly concerned for a man she claims is just a client.
Yet, as a spark ignites between the pair, secrets swallow them whole and Mia is pushed to the edge both physically and mentally.
But do Mia and Easton believe in each other enough to not merely find this elusive man in black but build a future together?
And with heat, tension, intrigue, suspense and lots of luscious detail. This was a captivating introduction to both series and author, and I'll definitely be looking out for more.
I would also enthusiastically recommend Buried Deception to others.
**I was kindly provided with an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
Buried Deception is my first book by author Amanda McKinney, and it's an intriguing and beautifully descriptive one. That enticed me in and kept me engaged throughout.
As Easton a former marine and owner of LYNX. A tracking company that teaches law enforcement and the military how to track predators of all kinds in the swamp ridden terrain of East Texas. Joins forces with local psychologist Dr Mia Frost. To hunt for a man nicknamed the Black Cat Stalker after a teenage girl is brutally raped on the Black Cat Trail.
But when one of Mia's clients disappears, Easton begins to wonder what is going on. As this guy doesn't fit Mia's profile and Mia seems oddly and overly concerned for a man she claims is just a client.
Yet, as a spark ignites between the pair, secrets swallow them whole and Mia is pushed to the edge both physically and mentally.
But do Mia and Easton believe in each other enough to not merely find this elusive man in black but build a future together?
And with heat, tension, intrigue, suspense and lots of luscious detail. This was a captivating introduction to both series and author, and I'll definitely be looking out for more.
I would also enthusiastically recommend Buried Deception to others.
**I was kindly provided with an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
September 12, 2022
Buried Deception (On the Edge #1) by Amanda McKinney
4 stars
M/F Mystery
Triggers: Rape, Stalking
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
This book grabs you from the start. Despite the brutality of the crime, you know that there is an underling network in this small town.
Easton and his group are well known for their ability to track people through the tough forest in the area. The group is less in your face than I expected, but it was a nice surprise. I liked that the group was mentioned, but didn't take a front seat.
Easton is a complicated leader. He knows that his job is important, but with a trauma in his recent past, Easton also knows that he doesn't ever want to be too late again.
Mia is an up and coming psychologist in the area and while she wants to help those around her, she is constantly battling her own demons. The Mia that everyone sees during the day is not the same Mia that is present at night.
When the past and present collide for Mia, it will take all of her training and trust to figure out what to do now and how to move forward.
These two, with their pasts haunting them, will need to learn to lean on each other and weave their way through grief and guilt.
I really enjoyed this story. I am looking forward to seeing what more this series has in store.
4 stars
M/F Mystery
Triggers: Rape, Stalking
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
This book grabs you from the start. Despite the brutality of the crime, you know that there is an underling network in this small town.
Easton and his group are well known for their ability to track people through the tough forest in the area. The group is less in your face than I expected, but it was a nice surprise. I liked that the group was mentioned, but didn't take a front seat.
Easton is a complicated leader. He knows that his job is important, but with a trauma in his recent past, Easton also knows that he doesn't ever want to be too late again.
Mia is an up and coming psychologist in the area and while she wants to help those around her, she is constantly battling her own demons. The Mia that everyone sees during the day is not the same Mia that is present at night.
When the past and present collide for Mia, it will take all of her training and trust to figure out what to do now and how to move forward.
These two, with their pasts haunting them, will need to learn to lean on each other and weave their way through grief and guilt.
I really enjoyed this story. I am looking forward to seeing what more this series has in store.
January 28, 2023
The Black Cat Stalker has been causing panic in the Louisiana swamp town of Skull Hollow. When a young girl, Courtney, goes missing, rescue specialist, Easton Crew and his LINX group are called in to help find the girl. Hypnotherapy specialist, profiler, and psychologist, Dr. Mia Frost is called in to help create a profile of The Black Cat Stalker. Once Courtney is found, Mia offers her services to help Courtney describe her rapist and deal with the trauma, but the more Mia learns, the more she sees similarities between Courtney's case and incidents in her own past. Little does Mia know but she has a stalker of her own.
Buried Deception is an excellent romantic suspense/mystery. The descriptions of the settings and characters creates an atmosphere that draws the reader in and doesn't let go until the very end of the book. The author uses the common elements of romantic suspense masterfully to create feelings of uncertainty and anticipation. Even though the romance doesn't inhabit as much of the story as the mystery, it's still very evident in the plot. Unfortunately the conclusion of the story and some of the character motivations don't reach the same level as the rest of the story. Overall, however, Buried Deception is a very effective romance with enough suspense and tension to make it difficult to put down and is well worth the read. 4 1/2 stars
Buried Deception is an excellent romantic suspense/mystery. The descriptions of the settings and characters creates an atmosphere that draws the reader in and doesn't let go until the very end of the book. The author uses the common elements of romantic suspense masterfully to create feelings of uncertainty and anticipation. Even though the romance doesn't inhabit as much of the story as the mystery, it's still very evident in the plot. Unfortunately the conclusion of the story and some of the character motivations don't reach the same level as the rest of the story. Overall, however, Buried Deception is a very effective romance with enough suspense and tension to make it difficult to put down and is well worth the read. 4 1/2 stars
August 16, 2022
The Black Cat Trail is not one for a young woman to jog alone. A man, dressed in all black and wearing a black bandanna around his neck, will suddenly appear behind them. He would follow them closely before disappearing. He is known as the Black Cat Stalker. So far, all he does is stalk the women until one day he had done more than just scare a young girl.
Dr. Mia Frost, a criminal psychologist, wants to help catch the Black Cat stalker. With the help of Easton Crew, a former marine, this case might bring back a past she worked hard to bury. Now they have to find the new person who has disappeared before it’s too late.
To me, Buried Deception is a more Psychological Thriller than a romantic suspense story. Amanda McKinney has a detailed way of writing. You get a thorough description of what’s happening, where it’s happening, and a few lessons on hunting for tracks and physiology. I’ll admit I wasn’t a fan of it. But I found that I enjoy feeling as if I’m there with the characters and watching through their eyes, noticing every detail they pick up, and gaining new knowledge.
The characters are interesting and I found myself curious about each of their stories. Mia and Easton aren’t scared to go toe to toe. They see each other under the façade, the side of them not many see, and it makes them even more real. The rawness of their relationship is enough to show that they were meant to be. They will have each other back, no matter what rumours the small townspeople will say. It’s the kind of love you know will last a lifetime.
As I said, it’s only the too many details that I didn’t like, but other than that, this book was amazing. It has mystery, suspense and romance, so it feeds the heart as well as the mind. I’m looking forward to reading more books by Amanda McKinney.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 27, 2023
Good book, I don’t know why it look more so long to finish this book. It’s a good mix between romance and a thriller.
I really got rapped into this storyline. Mia is a therapist who helps clients with PTSD. Easton is the owner of the Lynx Group. Ex military who help find missing people. Together they track down a serial killer.
This book had a storyline!! I really enjoyed getting lost into this book. This is not a smutty romance but one that is deeper then that and I love it.
Mia and Eason were two broken two people helped each other help. I can’t wait to read more by this author.
I really got rapped into this storyline. Mia is a therapist who helps clients with PTSD. Easton is the owner of the Lynx Group. Ex military who help find missing people. Together they track down a serial killer.
This book had a storyline!! I really enjoyed getting lost into this book. This is not a smutty romance but one that is deeper then that and I love it.
Mia and Eason were two broken two people helped each other help. I can’t wait to read more by this author.
August 28, 2022
Wow! What a book! I went back and forth like 10 times on whether to request this ARC and I’m so glad I did! This was a great blend of crime, psychological thriller, and romance. There is A LOT going on and A LOT of characters. At one point I had to write down and take notes as to who was what to get it all straight in my head, but once I did it was easier to follow.
There’s a serial predator on the loose. Easton Crew helps local police to track the missing victims by leading his elite LYNX group through the woods looking for clues. Mia Frost is a psychologist who is linked to the victims. Most of the story is trying to figure out who this serial predator is, named the Black Cat Stalker, and the mounting tension between Mia and Easton.
I thought this was a quick read and it kept my attention until the very last page. I really felt like the author Amanda McKinney knows the perfect balance between giving us enough details to paint a picture but not too muich that it’s a never ending story that drags on forever. Great story and I’m looking forward to more from this author! Thank you to Book Sirens for my ARC. This is my honest review of Buried Deception by Amanda McKinney.
There’s a serial predator on the loose. Easton Crew helps local police to track the missing victims by leading his elite LYNX group through the woods looking for clues. Mia Frost is a psychologist who is linked to the victims. Most of the story is trying to figure out who this serial predator is, named the Black Cat Stalker, and the mounting tension between Mia and Easton.
I thought this was a quick read and it kept my attention until the very last page. I really felt like the author Amanda McKinney knows the perfect balance between giving us enough details to paint a picture but not too muich that it’s a never ending story that drags on forever. Great story and I’m looking forward to more from this author! Thank you to Book Sirens for my ARC. This is my honest review of Buried Deception by Amanda McKinney.
September 17, 2022
A new Romanic Thriller by Amanda McKinney did NOT disappoint. From the first chapter you are thrown into a hunt for a missing girl which brings the main characters, Mia and Easton into each others world. Twist and turns throughout the book kept me riveted until the last page.
Once again Amanda does not shy away from traumatic experiences to bring depth to these characters. Full of suspense and plot twist kept me engaged from beginning to end. I hope we see more of the hot, Alpha men of LYNX is the next book.
I received an ARC from the author for my truthful review
Once again Amanda does not shy away from traumatic experiences to bring depth to these characters. Full of suspense and plot twist kept me engaged from beginning to end. I hope we see more of the hot, Alpha men of LYNX is the next book.
I received an ARC from the author for my truthful review
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