What do you think?
Rate this book
Fatal #5
Fatal Deception
The wife of the White House deputy chief of staff has been beaten to death, and their one-year-old daughter is missing. D.C. Police Lieutenant Sam Holland is in charge of the murder investigation, but she's forced to collaborate with Special Victims Unit detectives as well as thorn-in-her-side FBI Special Agent Avery Hill. Then, a cold case of her father's resurrects old hurts--a distraction Sam cannot afford.
As Sam's investigation heats up, so does Nick's political career--and the heat carries over to their bedroom. Will Sam put the pieces together in time to catch a killer and find the baby, or will ambition, greed and lies prove fatal?
Book 5 of the Fatal series from NEW YORK TIMES, USA TODAY and WALL STREET JOURNAL bestselling author Marie Force
As Sam's investigation heats up, so does Nick's political career--and the heat carries over to their bedroom. Will Sam put the pieces together in time to catch a killer and find the baby, or will ambition, greed and lies prove fatal?
Book 5 of the Fatal series from NEW YORK TIMES, USA TODAY and WALL STREET JOURNAL bestselling author Marie Force
384 pages, ebook
First published November 12, 2012
1,012 people are currently reading
1,781 people want to read
About the author
Marie Force
242books8,345followersMarie Force is the New York Times bestselling author of contemporary romance, romantic suspense and erotic romance. Her series include Gansett Island, Fatal, Treading Water, Butler Vermont and Quantum.
Her books have sold more than 12 million copies worldwide, have been translated into more than a dozen languages and have appeared on the New York Times bestseller more than 30 times. She is also a USA Today and #1 Wall Street Journal bestseller, as well as a Speigel bestseller in Germany.
Her goals in life are simple—to finish raising two happy, healthy, productive young adults, to keep writing books for as long as she possibly can and to never be on a flight that makes the news.
Join Marie’s mailing list on her website at marieforce.com for news about new books and upcoming appearances in your area. Follow her on Facebook at and on Instagram at . Contact Marie at [email protected].
Her books have sold more than 12 million copies worldwide, have been translated into more than a dozen languages and have appeared on the New York Times bestseller more than 30 times. She is also a USA Today and #1 Wall Street Journal bestseller, as well as a Speigel bestseller in Germany.
Her goals in life are simple—to finish raising two happy, healthy, productive young adults, to keep writing books for as long as she possibly can and to never be on a flight that makes the news.
Join Marie’s mailing list on her website at marieforce.com for news about new books and upcoming appearances in your area. Follow her on Facebook at and on Instagram at . Contact Marie at [email protected].
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 338 reviews
March 8, 2024
2024 Review
the setup�
Homicide Detective Sam Holland and her team are investigating another tough and politically charged case. Victoria Kavanaugh, the wife of White House Deputy Chief of Staff Derek Kavanaugh, was found by him, brutally murdered in their home. To add to the trauma, their 13-month old daughter Maeve is missing. Derek is a good friend of Sam’s husband, U. S. Senator Nick Cappuano and they both socialized with the couple. Was her murder related to Derek’s job?
the heart of the story�
The race to find Maeve added a really tense element to an already high charged situation. As the investigation progressed, it soon became apparent that there was a lot of mystery about Victoria that provided complications. Again, there’s a lot going on beyond the murder case, including the cold case investigation from the last story that emerges again. FBI Agent Avery Hill is assisting with the investigation but his infatuation with Sam gets in the way. I like that there are secondary storylines that have added depth.
the narration�
Kaminsky is now the voice of this series for me and that’s a really good thing.
the bottom line�
I enjoyed the story as much as I did the first time with one important distinction. While I respect Sam’s skills, her arrogance sometimes gets in the way. But, she’s getting better with her personal relationships, particularly with Nick, recognizing she needs to be more supportive. There’s an update regarding Scotty, too. But it’s the case that had me hooked. If you like multiple plot lines, you’re going to love this story. 4.5 stars
2015 Review
The story centers around the murder of the wife of the White House deputy chief of staff. Also egregious is the kidnapping of their 13-month old daughter. As the investigation progresses, shocking discoveries are made that will impact the political landscape.
I really enjoyed this story as the investigation is front and center. It was perplexing to unravel, even though early suspicions point in an obvious direction as the details weren't as apparent. Relationships continue to move forward and provide plenty of depth to the story. Sam and Nick are fast becoming a favorite couple and the people surrounding them make interesting secondary storylines. There's lots of humor to accompany the obvious heartbreak and the romance. I'm loving the series. 4.5 stars
the setup�
Homicide Detective Sam Holland and her team are investigating another tough and politically charged case. Victoria Kavanaugh, the wife of White House Deputy Chief of Staff Derek Kavanaugh, was found by him, brutally murdered in their home. To add to the trauma, their 13-month old daughter Maeve is missing. Derek is a good friend of Sam’s husband, U. S. Senator Nick Cappuano and they both socialized with the couple. Was her murder related to Derek’s job?
the heart of the story�
The race to find Maeve added a really tense element to an already high charged situation. As the investigation progressed, it soon became apparent that there was a lot of mystery about Victoria that provided complications. Again, there’s a lot going on beyond the murder case, including the cold case investigation from the last story that emerges again. FBI Agent Avery Hill is assisting with the investigation but his infatuation with Sam gets in the way. I like that there are secondary storylines that have added depth.
the narration�
Kaminsky is now the voice of this series for me and that’s a really good thing.
the bottom line�
I enjoyed the story as much as I did the first time with one important distinction. While I respect Sam’s skills, her arrogance sometimes gets in the way. But, she’s getting better with her personal relationships, particularly with Nick, recognizing she needs to be more supportive. There’s an update regarding Scotty, too. But it’s the case that had me hooked. If you like multiple plot lines, you’re going to love this story. 4.5 stars
2015 Review
The story centers around the murder of the wife of the White House deputy chief of staff. Also egregious is the kidnapping of their 13-month old daughter. As the investigation progresses, shocking discoveries are made that will impact the political landscape.
I really enjoyed this story as the investigation is front and center. It was perplexing to unravel, even though early suspicions point in an obvious direction as the details weren't as apparent. Relationships continue to move forward and provide plenty of depth to the story. Sam and Nick are fast becoming a favorite couple and the people surrounding them make interesting secondary storylines. There's lots of humor to accompany the obvious heartbreak and the romance. I'm loving the series. 4.5 stars
May 30, 2018
4.5 stars.
Favourite of the series so far! And nothing to do with the introduction of a brooding FBI Agent. Nothing at all.
I love your brand of trouble.�
Favourite of the series so far! And nothing to do with the introduction of a brooding FBI Agent. Nothing at all.
I love your brand of trouble.�
November 25, 2012
5/5 Stars
I love this series and eagerly await the release of the next installment. A series that focuses/concentrates on one romantic couple is not usually my thing, but quite a few friends (including some who have never steered me wrong) here on GR's started posting amazing reviews about the first one . Their reviews and comments praised both the book and the author all the way so I took the plunge�..Once I started reading it I was hooked and have continued to read and love every single one!
After reading the previous books I was wondering where the next book would take us but again Ms. Force has pulled it off again! It is a brilliant Romantic Suspense, ok it does focus mainly on the suspense side of things but we still do get to see some romance between the newly married couple and I love the chemistry/connection between the two of them. Both Nick and Sam have very busy jobs, he is a U.S. Senator and she is a D.C. police Lieutenant commanding her team of detectives and juggling numerous murder cases, some of which get solved but others that have been on-going throughout the series. In some ways I would love to see those cases solved and be given the answers but in others I very much want them to continue, which is unusual for me as I tend to get impatient and end up giving up with the series�.but not this one! When we do finally get some answers then I am hoping that Ms Force has already set up new ones to grip us so that the series continues.
The main focus of this story is another high profile case whereby the wife of the White House deputy chief of staff has been beaten to death, and their one-year-old daughter is missing. As with previous books the story lines are gripping and kept me interested right until the end. We see Nick and Sam adjusting to married life and trying to juggle their heavy schedules to get some quality time together. Sam is beginning to open up more and more to Nick and realise that she can depend on him that he is there for her and loves her deeply. They start to discover that she likes a little bit of kink in their love making and they start to explore this, and Nick encourages her to let him know what else excites her so that they can explore that too.
I would beg Ms. Force to please please write faster but then I do know that she also writes other series too and that these things take a little time, but I know that future installments will be well worth the wait!
If you love a really good romantic suspense trust me when I say you need to try this one�.you won’t be disappointed!
ARC kindly provided by publisher Carina Press via NetGalley
I love this series and eagerly await the release of the next installment. A series that focuses/concentrates on one romantic couple is not usually my thing, but quite a few friends (including some who have never steered me wrong) here on GR's started posting amazing reviews about the first one . Their reviews and comments praised both the book and the author all the way so I took the plunge�..Once I started reading it I was hooked and have continued to read and love every single one!
After reading the previous books I was wondering where the next book would take us but again Ms. Force has pulled it off again! It is a brilliant Romantic Suspense, ok it does focus mainly on the suspense side of things but we still do get to see some romance between the newly married couple and I love the chemistry/connection between the two of them. Both Nick and Sam have very busy jobs, he is a U.S. Senator and she is a D.C. police Lieutenant commanding her team of detectives and juggling numerous murder cases, some of which get solved but others that have been on-going throughout the series. In some ways I would love to see those cases solved and be given the answers but in others I very much want them to continue, which is unusual for me as I tend to get impatient and end up giving up with the series�.but not this one! When we do finally get some answers then I am hoping that Ms Force has already set up new ones to grip us so that the series continues.
The main focus of this story is another high profile case whereby the wife of the White House deputy chief of staff has been beaten to death, and their one-year-old daughter is missing. As with previous books the story lines are gripping and kept me interested right until the end. We see Nick and Sam adjusting to married life and trying to juggle their heavy schedules to get some quality time together. Sam is beginning to open up more and more to Nick and realise that she can depend on him that he is there for her and loves her deeply. They start to discover that she likes a little bit of kink in their love making and they start to explore this, and Nick encourages her to let him know what else excites her so that they can explore that too.
I would beg Ms. Force to please please write faster but then I do know that she also writes other series too and that these things take a little time, but I know that future installments will be well worth the wait!
If you love a really good romantic suspense trust me when I say you need to try this one�.you won’t be disappointed!
ARC kindly provided by publisher Carina Press via NetGalley
April 5, 2024
Senator Nick Cuppauno and Lt. Samantha Holland's peaceful day off is interrupted when she is called out on a murder. The White House Chief of Staff's wife has been found beaten to death. Their one-year-old daughter is missing. With the help of FBI Agent Avery Hill, Sam and her team of detectives must uncover secrets from the victim's past...secrets that may have repercussions in the present.
Another excellent addition to Marie Force's Fatal series. As usual, the mystery is well written and not too easy to figure out. Nick and Sam are still a great couple whose relationship is growing deeper. We have more of Scotty possibly living with Sam and Nick, and a past investigation involving Sam's father. I liked that many of the supporting characters were involved in the story, including Avery Hill who is having a hard time with his feelings for Sam. I'm looking forward to him getting over Sam and hopefully teaming up with Sam's new assistant in future books. My rating: 4.5 Stars.
2024 Re-read: I didn't remember much of the actual mystery from my when I read this book nine years ago. It was a good mystery that kept me guessing. I liked that nearly every supporting character from the previous books got involved in working on the case. I stand by my original rating of 4.5 Stars.
Another excellent addition to Marie Force's Fatal series. As usual, the mystery is well written and not too easy to figure out. Nick and Sam are still a great couple whose relationship is growing deeper. We have more of Scotty possibly living with Sam and Nick, and a past investigation involving Sam's father. I liked that many of the supporting characters were involved in the story, including Avery Hill who is having a hard time with his feelings for Sam. I'm looking forward to him getting over Sam and hopefully teaming up with Sam's new assistant in future books. My rating: 4.5 Stars.
2024 Re-read: I didn't remember much of the actual mystery from my when I read this book nine years ago. It was a good mystery that kept me guessing. I liked that nearly every supporting character from the previous books got involved in working on the case. I stand by my original rating of 4.5 Stars.
January 2, 2013
Marie, if it ain't broke .... Have read nearly all of Marie's books. Love them BUT, yep, going to be in the minority here - why bring in the spanking etc. Marie, you have a loyal following and I know you have said in other comments that you did not read Fifty but this book added a little bit of kinky that a lot of writers are "doing" at the moment. As I said, if it ain't broke, why fix it? I know most will not agree with me. I am not a prude, have my fair share of "toys" but kinda wish you had kept Nick and Sam without the kink. Think I did not review the last one in the Gansett series for this reason ... going down the ropes, kink road with Blaine and Tiff. Think it would have been her usual 5 stars but that aspect annoyed me. Still a great read and the next one will be interesting because of the Avery angle!
November 14, 2020
Another great read by Marie Force - really enjoyed this series. Can't get any more corrupt than being in Washington, DC.
Good plot line, great character developments, very likeable (and hated/nasty) characters, very well written.
From the blurb: The wife of the White House deputy chief of staff has been beaten to death, and their one-year-old daughter is missing. D.C. Police Lieutenant Sam Holland is in charge of the murder investigation, but she's forced to collaborate with Special Victims Unit detectives as well as thorn-in-her-side FBI Special Agent Avery Hill. Then, a cold case of her father's resurrects old hurts--a distraction Sam cannot afford.
As Sam's investigation heats up, so does Nick's political career--and the heat carries over to their bedroom. Will Sam put the pieces together in time to catch a killer and find the baby, or will ambition, greed and lies prove fatal?
Would I recommend this series - you betcha! Two thumbs up!
Good plot line, great character developments, very likeable (and hated/nasty) characters, very well written.
From the blurb: The wife of the White House deputy chief of staff has been beaten to death, and their one-year-old daughter is missing. D.C. Police Lieutenant Sam Holland is in charge of the murder investigation, but she's forced to collaborate with Special Victims Unit detectives as well as thorn-in-her-side FBI Special Agent Avery Hill. Then, a cold case of her father's resurrects old hurts--a distraction Sam cannot afford.
As Sam's investigation heats up, so does Nick's political career--and the heat carries over to their bedroom. Will Sam put the pieces together in time to catch a killer and find the baby, or will ambition, greed and lies prove fatal?
Would I recommend this series - you betcha! Two thumbs up!
February 1, 2013
5 SHINY ★★★★�
LOVED! LOVED! LOVED! THIS STORY!
Nick & Sam's "story" just gets better and better with each book!
.. and the bantering between Sam and her partner Freddie.. BRILLIANT!!
CANNOT. WAIT. TO. READ. the next book in the series!
November 12, 2012
Once again Marie Force has given readers a well-crafted romantic suspense in the latest addition to her top-notch "Fatal" series. A perfect combination of love, passion and suspense!
The devotion between Sam and Nick continues to grow stronger and the romance only gets more creative and steamier. It's downright swoon-worthy. The chemistry and banter that goes on between Sam and Nick is nothing less than genius. MF continues to develop the depth in her main characters, as well as in the secondary cast with new and fresh detailing. The family dynamics adds yet another level of reading enjoyment to this series. With each book readers are assured a well paced criminal plot with twists and turns that will keep you glued to your chair. Between the sizzling romance and the chilling suspense, I'm always a well-satisfied reader. "Fatal Deception" is exceptionally well-written with creativity, witty dialogue, and sizzling sensuality and once again delivers a complete package.
Marie Force is a natural at her craft. Time after time, this author creates magic that brings her stories and characters alive on the pages of her books. As a reader, that's the key to a great read for me. And it always keeps me coming back again and again to read every book this author releases.
I highly recommend this series. Try one book and you'll be craving more!
The devotion between Sam and Nick continues to grow stronger and the romance only gets more creative and steamier. It's downright swoon-worthy. The chemistry and banter that goes on between Sam and Nick is nothing less than genius. MF continues to develop the depth in her main characters, as well as in the secondary cast with new and fresh detailing. The family dynamics adds yet another level of reading enjoyment to this series. With each book readers are assured a well paced criminal plot with twists and turns that will keep you glued to your chair. Between the sizzling romance and the chilling suspense, I'm always a well-satisfied reader. "Fatal Deception" is exceptionally well-written with creativity, witty dialogue, and sizzling sensuality and once again delivers a complete package.
Marie Force is a natural at her craft. Time after time, this author creates magic that brings her stories and characters alive on the pages of her books. As a reader, that's the key to a great read for me. And it always keeps me coming back again and again to read every book this author releases.
I highly recommend this series. Try one book and you'll be craving more!
March 11, 2024
This series is an interesting mix and the similarities with the "In Death" series just can't be dismissed or ignored, at least I can't ignore them. Sam is a strong cop and lives for the case. This time around she has picked up a not-so-secret admirer in FBI Agent Avery Hill. Nick is livid and Sam is uncomfortable. That was an interesting side to the case. Nick and Sam explore their kink, sexually, and decide to try for a baby, though what they are going to do with one, if it happens, is beyond me. Full time nanny, maybe? The plots are just interesting enough to keep me reading, but I've read better.
This case this time around is that of the murdered wife of the deputy chief of staff to the president and the kidnapping of their baby daughter. I never did figure out why the baddie took the kid, a lot more work for them. But, anyway, the woman, Victoria, doesn't exist and finding out who she really is becomes Sam's first order of business.
This case this time around is that of the murdered wife of the deputy chief of staff to the president and the kidnapping of their baby daughter. I never did figure out why the baddie took the kid, a lot more work for them. But, anyway, the woman, Victoria, doesn't exist and finding out who she really is becomes Sam's first order of business.
November 18, 2015
The last 10% of this book ruined this series for me. I don’t understand why the author felt Sam and Nick needed kink for them to have better and hotter sex. Their chemistry and love life so far has been wonderful and very intense and hot. In light of the sexual activities and preference of Nick’s dead best friend Senator John O’Connor and the sex call ring run by other senators and high officials of the US Government, Nick and Sam’s love life has always felt in lack of a better word, pure and true. Their chemistry has been so incredible that they didn’t need kink to make it hot and intense. I’m actually quite upset with the kink at the end, , and I felt totally blindsided by this happening.
The first 90% of the book was great as always. I loved all the usual characters, and I was so relieved that Jeannie is finally recovering from her sexual assault. Her boyfriend Michael is such an amazing guy, and I’m so happy that they are still going strong as a couple.
The introduction of FBI Special Agent Avery Hill, was great, and I really liked him. I do hope he can overcome his feelings for Sam, and notice little Tinkerbell aka Shelby.
Unfortunately because of the last 10% of the book, I don’t think I will be continuing with this series.
July 17, 2021
I absolutely love this series by Marie Force and in fact when I stumbled upon the story of Sam and Nick I read all five ½ books in one week! What a great story she has woven around D.C. police Lieutenant Sam Holland and her now husband Senator Nick Cappuano. The play-by-play between the two of them just keeps getting hotter and hotter. Nick is the ultimate man; hot, sexy, sensitive and strong and Sam is his equal in all ways. The story is full of twists and turns, suspense, off the charts sex and true love between the two main characters. I am eagerly awaiting the next installment!
January 7, 2013
Absolutely fantastic! This series gets better with each installment. The writing is fantastic, the dialogue and witty one liners never fails to put a smile on my face. Nick and Sam and the other wonderful characters in this series makes this a highly recommended read!
November 26, 2012
This series just keeps getting better and that's saying something because it was pretty damn AWESOME from the start!!! I LOVE reading the progression of Nick and Sam's relationship. I LOVE reading about all my other favorite characters and how their relationships are progressing also. Freddie & Elin, Gonzo & Christina, Jeannie & Michael, Terry & Lindsey , Tinker Bell, Skip & Celia, Scotty, Tyrone, Harry..Oh...Harry he needs a woman!! and Avery...Oh...Avery needs a woman too as long as it's not Sam!!! lol I look forward to reading about them almost as much as I do Nick & Sam.
Each addition to the series continues to be new and fresh with just the right amount of the familiar!! Such entertaining and exciting stories filled with romance, laughter, tears and increasingly HOTTER sex scenes!!! I'm always anxiously waiting for the next book in the series. I would be completely devastated if anything were to happen to Nick or Sam. They are such a great couple and I LOVE how they continue to be the main focus of this series. It is why I keep returning and will continue to do so.
Nick & Sam are definitely my all time favorite couple, hands down!! Their relationship is so strong and loving and I absolutely adore they way Nick takes care of Sam with the things he does for her and says to her. Nick *sigh* I love how they continue to grow in their relationship as the series progresses. Nick continues to make me SWOON with each new book. In Fatal Deception, Marie bumped up his swoon factor with some pretty AWESOME HOT STEAMY INTENSE SMOKING sex scenes!!! *shivers* Nick went all ALPHA in that one scene in their "honeymoon" room~soooo good!!! ;) He has to be one of greatest heroes that I have ever read!! Just love him!!! It's pretty hard not to fall under Sam's spell as well, she is gorgeous, kick~ass, smart, funny, loyal, caring and has great taste in shoes and clothes!! lol She is definitely girl~crush material!! :)
This continues to be one of my favorite series and a constant reread. It is so well written and contains everything that I could ever want in a book!! I have never wanted a hero and heroine to get the HEA they deserve more than Sam and Nick. Fatal Deception ended with such a cute and heartwarming epilogue!!! So Good!!
BEST OF THE BEST rating!!
***ARC provided by NetGalley~Thank you so much!!
BEST OF THE BEST rating!!! Nick and Sam are one of my all time favorite couples. I love the way that Marie Force continues to write them and I look forward to each book and the ability to return to them. This series keeps getting better and that is saying a lot as it has been pretty damn AWESOME from the start!!!
Full review to come.
Each addition to the series continues to be new and fresh with just the right amount of the familiar!! Such entertaining and exciting stories filled with romance, laughter, tears and increasingly HOTTER sex scenes!!! I'm always anxiously waiting for the next book in the series. I would be completely devastated if anything were to happen to Nick or Sam. They are such a great couple and I LOVE how they continue to be the main focus of this series. It is why I keep returning and will continue to do so.
Nick & Sam are definitely my all time favorite couple, hands down!! Their relationship is so strong and loving and I absolutely adore they way Nick takes care of Sam with the things he does for her and says to her. Nick *sigh* I love how they continue to grow in their relationship as the series progresses. Nick continues to make me SWOON with each new book. In Fatal Deception, Marie bumped up his swoon factor with some pretty AWESOME HOT STEAMY INTENSE SMOKING sex scenes!!! *shivers* Nick went all ALPHA in that one scene in their "honeymoon" room~soooo good!!! ;) He has to be one of greatest heroes that I have ever read!! Just love him!!! It's pretty hard not to fall under Sam's spell as well, she is gorgeous, kick~ass, smart, funny, loyal, caring and has great taste in shoes and clothes!! lol She is definitely girl~crush material!! :)
This continues to be one of my favorite series and a constant reread. It is so well written and contains everything that I could ever want in a book!! I have never wanted a hero and heroine to get the HEA they deserve more than Sam and Nick. Fatal Deception ended with such a cute and heartwarming epilogue!!! So Good!!
BEST OF THE BEST rating!!
***ARC provided by NetGalley~Thank you so much!!
BEST OF THE BEST rating!!! Nick and Sam are one of my all time favorite couples. I love the way that Marie Force continues to write them and I look forward to each book and the ability to return to them. This series keeps getting better and that is saying a lot as it has been pretty damn AWESOME from the start!!!
Full review to come.
March 15, 2024
Fatal Deception
4 Stars
When the wife of the President's Deputy Chief of Staff is found dead and her daughter is unaccounted for, Detective Lieutenant Sam Holland must work with the Special Victims Unit and FBI to find the baby and solve the murder. As the evidence accumulates, it becomes clear that there is more to the victim than meets the eye...
The search for the kidnapped baby is intense, and the investigation into the mother's murder is intriguing. Unfortunately, there are some issues both with plotting and characterization that undermine an otherwise excellent story.
To begin with, the mystery surrounding the victim's identity and the explanation for her death are evident from the beginning due to the overt foreshadowing. Thus, all that remains is to watch as Sam and her team follow the evidence. Moreover, the kidnapping subplot does not make sense - , and the reader is left wondering as no explanation is provided.
While Force has tremendous potential as an author, there are too many similarities between this series and J. D. Robb's In Death. Because Force is not as skilled as Robb at plot twists and character development, her repeated borrowings are beginning to overshadow her writing, and she is coming off worse from the inevitable comparison.
Finally, there is too much personal drama and angst for a romantic suspense series. The repetitive fertility/adoption/child care themes, which have been a focus for at least 3-4 books, need to be resolved soon. Moreover, the fact that yet another man is obsessed with Sam adds nothing to the narrative and must be nipped in the bud quickly.
All in all, the cases and characters in this series are engaging, but Force must come out of Robb's shadow and take her work in new and original directions.
4 Stars
When the wife of the President's Deputy Chief of Staff is found dead and her daughter is unaccounted for, Detective Lieutenant Sam Holland must work with the Special Victims Unit and FBI to find the baby and solve the murder. As the evidence accumulates, it becomes clear that there is more to the victim than meets the eye...
The search for the kidnapped baby is intense, and the investigation into the mother's murder is intriguing. Unfortunately, there are some issues both with plotting and characterization that undermine an otherwise excellent story.
To begin with, the mystery surrounding the victim's identity and the explanation for her death are evident from the beginning due to the overt foreshadowing. Thus, all that remains is to watch as Sam and her team follow the evidence. Moreover, the kidnapping subplot does not make sense - , and the reader is left wondering as no explanation is provided.
While Force has tremendous potential as an author, there are too many similarities between this series and J. D. Robb's In Death. Because Force is not as skilled as Robb at plot twists and character development, her repeated borrowings are beginning to overshadow her writing, and she is coming off worse from the inevitable comparison.
Finally, there is too much personal drama and angst for a romantic suspense series. The repetitive fertility/adoption/child care themes, which have been a focus for at least 3-4 books, need to be resolved soon. Moreover, the fact that yet another man is obsessed with Sam adds nothing to the narrative and must be nipped in the bud quickly.
All in all, the cases and characters in this series are engaging, but Force must come out of Robb's shadow and take her work in new and original directions.
December 20, 2020
4.5 🌟
In questo quinto capitolo della saga il tenente Samantha Holland si troverà nuovamente ad indagare nel mondo politico dopo la morte della moglie del braccio destro del Presidente ed il rapimento di sua figlia Maeve. Ma, sin dall'inizio, qualcosa inizia a non quadrare fino a scoperchiare una concatenazione di eventi e segreti inaspettati.
Ovviamente, a fianco di Samantha ritroveremo i suoi colleghi che, ormai, abbiamo iniziato a conoscere e a cui ci si affeziona. A tal proposito, una nota per la coppia di Micheal e Jeannie la devo spendere: lei sta ancora attraversando le conseguenze di un inferno personale che sono ricadute sulla coppia, ma Michael è stato con lei davvero perfetto e nel libro c'è un momento davvero emozionante!
Però attenzione, perché ci sarà una nuova presenza nel team: si tratta dell'agente Hill dell'FBI che nutre un interesse non solo professionale per Samantha, tanto da scatenare la gelosia di Nick. Riuscirà a minare il consolidato rapporto tra il nostro tenente ed il Senatore?
E questa è soltanto la trama superficiale perché nel libro ci sono colpi di scena, nuovi personaggi e l'evoluzione di tante vicende!
In questo quinto capitolo della saga il tenente Samantha Holland si troverà nuovamente ad indagare nel mondo politico dopo la morte della moglie del braccio destro del Presidente ed il rapimento di sua figlia Maeve. Ma, sin dall'inizio, qualcosa inizia a non quadrare fino a scoperchiare una concatenazione di eventi e segreti inaspettati.
Ovviamente, a fianco di Samantha ritroveremo i suoi colleghi che, ormai, abbiamo iniziato a conoscere e a cui ci si affeziona. A tal proposito, una nota per la coppia di Micheal e Jeannie la devo spendere: lei sta ancora attraversando le conseguenze di un inferno personale che sono ricadute sulla coppia, ma Michael è stato con lei davvero perfetto e nel libro c'è un momento davvero emozionante!
Però attenzione, perché ci sarà una nuova presenza nel team: si tratta dell'agente Hill dell'FBI che nutre un interesse non solo professionale per Samantha, tanto da scatenare la gelosia di Nick. Riuscirà a minare il consolidato rapporto tra il nostro tenente ed il Senatore?
E questa è soltanto la trama superficiale perché nel libro ci sono colpi di scena, nuovi personaggi e l'evoluzione di tante vicende!
November 4, 2012
Whoa Marie...talk about giving us more of what we want...awesome, just awesome!
Fatal Fans are in for a TREAT!! Fatal Deception sizzles!
For me, Fatal books are one's to savor. Even if I get an ARC, I still wait because once I finish it, that's it for a while, I'm done. So I like to take my time, read slow and really ENJOY the time I get to spend with Sam, Nick and the whole Fatal crew. Yes, it did only take me a day to read this last installment, but every hour was soooooo worth the wait.
Fatal Deception sucks you into the plot from the first chapter and has you on a roller coaster ride of suspense until the very end. I had so much fun reading this book, I wished I could be Sam for the day...Sometimes her job can be SO MUCH FUN!!
The emotions were running high, the sexual chemistry between Nick and Sam was OFF THE CHARTS HOT, and we have some great new characters ready to stir up some action. I will say that I did kind of fall a little in love with FBI Agent Avery Hill, I really enjoyed being able to get into his head and I do hope that Marie finds him a soul mate...he really is the "heart stealer" of the book.
There are so many things that I want to say, but I hate giving ANYTHING away, especially to my tasty readers who are HUGE Fatal Fans. All I will say is that you won't be able to get enough, especially when Nick takes charge...oh baby...just you wait!! And the end, if the "letter" doesn't have you tearing up, then a certain conversation will have you reaching for a tissue.
Marie, I love this series, and I guess we can thank Baby Sofia for being stubborn and not wanting to come out, that I was able to read and review Fatal Deception. I am so excited for what you have in store for us next, and I will be a Fatal Fan For Life!!
Fatal Fans are in for a TREAT!! Fatal Deception sizzles!
For me, Fatal books are one's to savor. Even if I get an ARC, I still wait because once I finish it, that's it for a while, I'm done. So I like to take my time, read slow and really ENJOY the time I get to spend with Sam, Nick and the whole Fatal crew. Yes, it did only take me a day to read this last installment, but every hour was soooooo worth the wait.
Fatal Deception sucks you into the plot from the first chapter and has you on a roller coaster ride of suspense until the very end. I had so much fun reading this book, I wished I could be Sam for the day...Sometimes her job can be SO MUCH FUN!!
The emotions were running high, the sexual chemistry between Nick and Sam was OFF THE CHARTS HOT, and we have some great new characters ready to stir up some action. I will say that I did kind of fall a little in love with FBI Agent Avery Hill, I really enjoyed being able to get into his head and I do hope that Marie finds him a soul mate...he really is the "heart stealer" of the book.
There are so many things that I want to say, but I hate giving ANYTHING away, especially to my tasty readers who are HUGE Fatal Fans. All I will say is that you won't be able to get enough, especially when Nick takes charge...oh baby...just you wait!! And the end, if the "letter" doesn't have you tearing up, then a certain conversation will have you reaching for a tissue.
Marie, I love this series, and I guess we can thank Baby Sofia for being stubborn and not wanting to come out, that I was able to read and review Fatal Deception. I am so excited for what you have in store for us next, and I will be a Fatal Fan For Life!!
January 8, 2016
I read this right after reading an In Death novel by Nora Roberts. I was struck by how eerily similar the characters were. Sam came across as a somewhat less classy version of Eve, while Nick was a bit of a bumbling version of Roarke. However, there was a dichotomy in the "crews" of each couple, and I liked Sam and Nick's crews just a bit more, both due to their interconnectedness and their careers in the same fields as Sam and Nick. That detail made them more relevant to the story than Mavis, Trina and crew from the In Death series.
This story was a bit far fetched, in my opinion, but at the same time I could see it happening in today's political climate. That's not to say I didn't enjoy the story, because I did. I had no clue who was behind things ahead of time, so when the pieces fell into place, I was just as surprised as the characters!
All things considered, I'm enjoying both series for different reasons and plan to continue them both!
This story was a bit far fetched, in my opinion, but at the same time I could see it happening in today's political climate. That's not to say I didn't enjoy the story, because I did. I had no clue who was behind things ahead of time, so when the pieces fell into place, I was just as surprised as the characters!
All things considered, I'm enjoying both series for different reasons and plan to continue them both!
June 2, 2013
This series continues to keep my interest. Interesting characters, good plot and a few twists along the way! Can't wait for the next installment
March 19, 2024
SERIE FATAL vol 5
"Un nuovo caso sconvolge la capitale: il brutale assassinio della moglie di Derek Kavanaugh, uno dei consiglieri personali del Presidente della Casa Bianca, e il rapimento della loro bambina, Maeve, di un anno. Il tenente della polizia di Washington, Sam Holland, a capo delle indagini, è costretta a collaborare fianco a fianco con l'Unità Vittime Speciali dell'FBI e nello specifico con Avery Hill, una vera spina nel fianco per Sam e per la sua salute mentale. A darle ulteriori distrazioni si aggiungono nuove rivelazioni riguardo al cold case in cui è coinvolto suo padre. Le indagini si rivelano molto delicate e surriscaldano tutto il mondo della politica, mettendo in pericolo anche la carriera dello stesso Nick Cappuano, marito di Sam. Riuscirà il tenente a tirare le fila di tutto, scovare l'assassino, salvare la bambina e tenere in piedi il delicato castello di bugie che altrimenti potrebbe rivelarsi fatale per parecchie persone? "
Ed eccomi qui a recensire un nuovo capitolo di questa serie che si sta rivelando una sorpresa.
Mi piace molto perchè è un bel mix tra crime e romance un pò spicy.
Le storie dei personaggi e i casi sono collegati tra un libro e l'altro, e devo dire che questo mi intriga molto, perchè si evolvono cosi come i personaggi stessi.
Nick e Sam davvero teneri, anche se ne passano davvero tante.
Questo volume inizia con un bello shock: l'uccisione della moglie di un consigliere del Presidente, amico di Nick, e il rapimento della figlia di un anno e mezzo.
Inizia quindi la ricerca frenetica della piccola e subito le indagini si fanno serrate. Il tutto smorzato da toni familiari e di amicizia, tra la squadra omici, e l'amore delle varie coppie.
Purtroppo posso dire poco, perchè sennò spoilerei tutto.
Se cercate una serie che vi tenga con il fiato sospeso e che allo stesso tempo riempia i vostri cuori di amore, questa è quello che fa per voi.
Io mi auguro sempre che la Harmony la riprenda, noi siamo arrivati al vol 10, ma in America sono usciti un sacco di altri volumi.
Speriamo che non mi lascino sul più bello. In attesa continuo a leggere quelli pubblicati.
"Un nuovo caso sconvolge la capitale: il brutale assassinio della moglie di Derek Kavanaugh, uno dei consiglieri personali del Presidente della Casa Bianca, e il rapimento della loro bambina, Maeve, di un anno. Il tenente della polizia di Washington, Sam Holland, a capo delle indagini, è costretta a collaborare fianco a fianco con l'Unità Vittime Speciali dell'FBI e nello specifico con Avery Hill, una vera spina nel fianco per Sam e per la sua salute mentale. A darle ulteriori distrazioni si aggiungono nuove rivelazioni riguardo al cold case in cui è coinvolto suo padre. Le indagini si rivelano molto delicate e surriscaldano tutto il mondo della politica, mettendo in pericolo anche la carriera dello stesso Nick Cappuano, marito di Sam. Riuscirà il tenente a tirare le fila di tutto, scovare l'assassino, salvare la bambina e tenere in piedi il delicato castello di bugie che altrimenti potrebbe rivelarsi fatale per parecchie persone? "
Ed eccomi qui a recensire un nuovo capitolo di questa serie che si sta rivelando una sorpresa.
Mi piace molto perchè è un bel mix tra crime e romance un pò spicy.
Le storie dei personaggi e i casi sono collegati tra un libro e l'altro, e devo dire che questo mi intriga molto, perchè si evolvono cosi come i personaggi stessi.
Nick e Sam davvero teneri, anche se ne passano davvero tante.
Questo volume inizia con un bello shock: l'uccisione della moglie di un consigliere del Presidente, amico di Nick, e il rapimento della figlia di un anno e mezzo.
Inizia quindi la ricerca frenetica della piccola e subito le indagini si fanno serrate. Il tutto smorzato da toni familiari e di amicizia, tra la squadra omici, e l'amore delle varie coppie.
Purtroppo posso dire poco, perchè sennò spoilerei tutto.
Se cercate una serie che vi tenga con il fiato sospeso e che allo stesso tempo riempia i vostri cuori di amore, questa è quello che fa per voi.
Io mi auguro sempre che la Harmony la riprenda, noi siamo arrivati al vol 10, ma in America sono usciti un sacco di altri volumi.
Speriamo che non mi lascino sul più bello. In attesa continuo a leggere quelli pubblicati.
July 19, 2019
Il a fallu qu’elle foute du BDSM dans l’histoire 🤮
November 24, 2012
I hardly ever write book reviews, so please bare with me.
Over the past few weeks I've read the entire Fatal series for the first time, all 6 books. Let's just say I fell in love.
Marie Force's writing is astounding. I hardly have any quips about it. The characters she created were wonderful and relatable. Sam Holland and Nick Cappuano are amazing characters along with their large network of family and friends. There's a great character dynamic going on between all of them. It's hard not to get sucked in. If I were to imagine myself as a detective of some sort, I sure would hope to be like Sam.
In Fatal Deception, Lt. Sam has to face yet another high profile case. One which could potentially affect the Office of the President, if the targets aren't neutralized. Along with the headlining case, we see more of Scotty and more of Nick's campaign for Senator (and possibly the White House in the near future?). Also Special Agent Hall is back, and I'm left to speculate what his involvement will be in future books especially considering that his romantic interest in Sam doesn't seem to be wavering.
Hopefully you'll all enjoy this fast paced book as much as I did. Somehow Marie Force has been able to capture my utmost attention with her Fatal Series these past few weeks. I'm actually sad that I've gone through all of them already (but just in time for finals coming up). I certainly can't wait till the sixth book is released.
For more on the Fatal Series, visit my blog: ayamproductions.com.
Over the past few weeks I've read the entire Fatal series for the first time, all 6 books. Let's just say I fell in love.
Marie Force's writing is astounding. I hardly have any quips about it. The characters she created were wonderful and relatable. Sam Holland and Nick Cappuano are amazing characters along with their large network of family and friends. There's a great character dynamic going on between all of them. It's hard not to get sucked in. If I were to imagine myself as a detective of some sort, I sure would hope to be like Sam.
In Fatal Deception, Lt. Sam has to face yet another high profile case. One which could potentially affect the Office of the President, if the targets aren't neutralized. Along with the headlining case, we see more of Scotty and more of Nick's campaign for Senator (and possibly the White House in the near future?). Also Special Agent Hall is back, and I'm left to speculate what his involvement will be in future books especially considering that his romantic interest in Sam doesn't seem to be wavering.
Hopefully you'll all enjoy this fast paced book as much as I did. Somehow Marie Force has been able to capture my utmost attention with her Fatal Series these past few weeks. I'm actually sad that I've gone through all of them already (but just in time for finals coming up). I certainly can't wait till the sixth book is released.
For more on the Fatal Series, visit my blog: ayamproductions.com.
November 15, 2012
4.5*
I've had mixed feelings about Marie Force's contemporaries (albeit I haven't yet started on her much-beloved McCarthys of Gansett Island series)... but I absolutely love her entire romantic suspense Fatal series. Featuring the same couple in a series of books can be a risky proposition (unless you're Nora Roberts/J.D. Robb and that couple is Eve & Roarke), since--much as it is on television-- it is easy for the plots to become either repetitive or increasingly far-fetched and the characters staid or overly melodramatic in a desperate bid to keep readers interested when it is clear the series has run its course. Marie Force has managed to avoid these pitfalls through five full-length novels and one novella featuring the power couple of Nick & Sam and their merry band of incredibly realistic and fleshed-out secondary characters. In fact, the sixth instalment--FATAL DECEPTION-- is the best yet! The writing is incredibly crisp, the pacing tight, the suspense plot (my one gripe with the previous offering) gripping & fresh, and the romance and emotional growth of all the primary & secondary characters both realistic and heartwarming. And the love scenes are getting HOT!
If you haven't started reading this series, you're definitely missing out!
I've had mixed feelings about Marie Force's contemporaries (albeit I haven't yet started on her much-beloved McCarthys of Gansett Island series)... but I absolutely love her entire romantic suspense Fatal series. Featuring the same couple in a series of books can be a risky proposition (unless you're Nora Roberts/J.D. Robb and that couple is Eve & Roarke), since--much as it is on television-- it is easy for the plots to become either repetitive or increasingly far-fetched and the characters staid or overly melodramatic in a desperate bid to keep readers interested when it is clear the series has run its course. Marie Force has managed to avoid these pitfalls through five full-length novels and one novella featuring the power couple of Nick & Sam and their merry band of incredibly realistic and fleshed-out secondary characters. In fact, the sixth instalment--FATAL DECEPTION-- is the best yet! The writing is incredibly crisp, the pacing tight, the suspense plot (my one gripe with the previous offering) gripping & fresh, and the romance and emotional growth of all the primary & secondary characters both realistic and heartwarming. And the love scenes are getting HOT!
If you haven't started reading this series, you're definitely missing out!
November 13, 2012
Oh, how I love this series! I've said for ages now that Sam is one of my very favorite heroines, and this book just solidifies that. She is smart, loyal, stubborn, competent, and funny! You just can't get better than a romance that also provides plenty of mystery, drama, and laughs, and this book's got all that.
Although I I think you could read this latest addition in the Fatal series as a stand alone, it will be that much better if you read the other books first.
I can't wait to see what's up next for Nick and Sam!
Although I I think you could read this latest addition in the Fatal series as a stand alone, it will be that much better if you read the other books first.
I can't wait to see what's up next for Nick and Sam!
January 5, 2016
3.5 stars. This book held together better than the previous one. However, Sam's attitude has become even more abrasive and rude in her interactions with everyone except her family and Scotty. There is some good character development that happens, we learn how some other couples are doing without spending a lot of time with them. The mystery itself takes some time and investigation to figure out. That effort was good to read, but I felt the motivation was not strong enough to justify the amount of damage done
April 19, 2013
Ok I am going to have withdrawal symptoms from not reading the Fatal series. Absolutlely amazing series to read. Highly highly recommend it.
October 22, 2021
A well written romance/crime/political story. This is part of the ongoing series about Sam (a Washington DC detective) and her husband Nick (a US senator). I would suggest reading from the beginning of the series, but there are ongoing small recaps re background information in each book if you haven't and each book could be read as a stand alone.
There are several points of view, including some of Sam & Nick's friends and other side romances, which I liked. I normally don't enjoy ongoing series featuring one couple only, because it can get stale quickly, so the other couples break up the main romance and make everything more interesting. This is front and centre Sam and Nick's story though and they are the main feature of each book, as is each investigation. There is action, drama, heartbreak and fun, plus lots of red herrings re the murders and very involved crime cases that fan out from those.
There's an ongoing cold case as the backstory throughout all the books, featuring an old investigation involving her disabled ex-cop father. There are different murders/investigations in each book that do wrap up at the end, including the murder in this one. The sex scenes are nicely written and very steamy.
I'm afraid that all the political stuff does go over my head and I tend to skim the in-depth parts. I'm not from America and it doesn't interest me at all. Fortunately there isn't a great deal in this book. The featured murder is the wife of an employee of the president, so there's quite a bit of intrigue surrounding candidates and political aspirations. (That's the reason I haven't given it a higher rating, because all this stuff transfers me out of the story). Many US readers probably lap it up.
I'm intending to read this series to the end though, as it's good and I'm enjoying it, plus I have all the books including the next two on audio. I still haven't warmed up to Sam much and Nick is 'perfect' - so perfect that's he's too good to be true. I like the new characters of FBI agent Avery Hill and 'Tink'. Hope they have a romance.
There are several points of view, including some of Sam & Nick's friends and other side romances, which I liked. I normally don't enjoy ongoing series featuring one couple only, because it can get stale quickly, so the other couples break up the main romance and make everything more interesting. This is front and centre Sam and Nick's story though and they are the main feature of each book, as is each investigation. There is action, drama, heartbreak and fun, plus lots of red herrings re the murders and very involved crime cases that fan out from those.
There's an ongoing cold case as the backstory throughout all the books, featuring an old investigation involving her disabled ex-cop father. There are different murders/investigations in each book that do wrap up at the end, including the murder in this one. The sex scenes are nicely written and very steamy.
I'm afraid that all the political stuff does go over my head and I tend to skim the in-depth parts. I'm not from America and it doesn't interest me at all. Fortunately there isn't a great deal in this book. The featured murder is the wife of an employee of the president, so there's quite a bit of intrigue surrounding candidates and political aspirations. (That's the reason I haven't given it a higher rating, because all this stuff transfers me out of the story). Many US readers probably lap it up.
I'm intending to read this series to the end though, as it's good and I'm enjoying it, plus I have all the books including the next two on audio. I still haven't warmed up to Sam much and Nick is 'perfect' - so perfect that's he's too good to be true. I like the new characters of FBI agent Avery Hill and 'Tink'. Hope they have a romance.
November 12, 2017
Fatal Deception is the 5th book in the Fatal Series. In this story, the wife of the Deputy Chief of Staff at the White House is brutally murdered. This hits close to home with Sam and Nick because they have socialized with the couple and Nick knows them well. As the case unfolds, Sam finds that Victoria isn't who her husband thought she was and must chase against time to find the couple's daughter who was abducted in the attack. In the meantime, Nick's political career is heating up as he is asked to give the keynote address at the Democratic National Convention. As in the other books in the series, many of the supporting characters continue their stories throughout the series. This is another good entry in the Fatal Series, and I'm looking forward to the next book.
April 30, 2019
The only reason why I endure Sam Holland and her selfish ways is for all the other characters, and Nick 😍 and Scotty 🥰 And there's a new member of my Book Boyfriend Club: Agent Avery Hill...my oh my. A Southern gentleman, with a delicious smooth, accent, and a stoic expression. I definitely swooned (Southern style 😉) and salivated. Every book gives me a little bit more info about each of the characters and their significant others. And that is why I endure Sam Holland. She still manages to piss me off with her thoughtless actions and know-it-all attitude.
February 7, 2019
Solid 4.5 Stars!
This was a seriously fun, fast paced read. It was one thing after another in this book and it all worked well. There is a bit of predictablity but that might be what makes this Fatal Series work. The team is all hands on deck and we get a peek into everyone’s life, well done.
We have a new player, a liaison from the FBI who with fit in just right.
Scotty is a child character I oddly enough can’t wait to see in a scene.
This was a seriously fun, fast paced read. It was one thing after another in this book and it all worked well. There is a bit of predictablity but that might be what makes this Fatal Series work. The team is all hands on deck and we get a peek into everyone’s life, well done.
We have a new player, a liaison from the FBI who with fit in just right.
Scotty is a child character I oddly enough can’t wait to see in a scene.
November 9, 2017
Each scandal seems bigger then the last! This one kept me guessing from start to finish. I
Love the way MF writes because it shows emotions across the board and is so relatable because it shows people working to solve the case and problem while also handling a lot of internal issues.
Love the way MF writes because it shows emotions across the board and is so relatable because it shows people working to solve the case and problem while also handling a lot of internal issues.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 338 reviews
Can't find what you're looking for?
Get help and learn more about the design.