Review of Deceived by Mary Keliikoa

From the publisher of Deceived

PI Kelly Pruett finally feels like she’s coming into her own. With her personal life well on track, a gig uncovering what drove a client’s granddaughter underground could be good for business. But after her undercover operation at the homeless shelter reveals rampant drug dealing, she’s suddenly kicked off the case… just as another girl goes missing.

Vowing to expose the truth even if it means pro-bono work, Kelly is taken aback when her half-sister helps her hunt down answers in a tent city brimming with distrust. When her investigation doesn’t move quickly enough to save a second woman from a vicious murder, Kelly doubles her efforts unwilling to accept defeat.

My review

Deceived is, in a sense, a coming-of-age novel. PI Kelly Pruett finally realizes who she is and how she must operate to feel successful in her job. Like most of the characters in the book, Kelly’s character is complex and multi-layered. This isn’t just another sleuth-knows-all tale, it’s one of grit, determination, and learning to adapt in a world filled with suspicion.

From a technical standpoint, previous events and backstory were only brought in as they were needed, which kept the plot moving forward quickly. The dialogue felt crisp and authentic while also providing information we needed. The descriptions and setting were done well, and it felt like we were actually there when Kelly visited a homeless camp. 

I thoroughly enjoyed Deceived and was kept wondering who the killer could be until the end. This is an excellent addition to the female-PI genre, and I look forward to reading more from this author.

FTC Full Disclosure: A review copy of this book was provided by its publisher.

Learn more about Mary Keliikoa or the Kelly Pruett Mysteries at marykeliikoa.com. Want more author news? If so, click here to read more Behind the Story interviews from your favorite authors.