The Face of Deceit

Murders, past and present. Memories too painful to revisit. Unique--and surprisingly shattered--vases. A writers' retreat. An art history expert. A quirky detective. Unexpected romance. Enduring faith. Ramona Richards combines all of these and more in the twists and turns of her latest addition to Steeple Hill's Love Inspired Suspense series. She skillfully weaves multiple plot- and character-threads to form an engaging, inspiring novel that captured my heart and my attention. When an author makes me want to read more, I consider the book a success. You did it, Ms. Richards. What's next?

If you're looking for a diversion from everyday life, Ramona Richards' The Face of Deceit is the perfect escape. It's easy to identify with heroine Karen O'Neill. She's a strong, independent, and contemporary woman. But she has a lot more problems than most of us. For one thing, she's missing a chunk of her childhood since witnessing the murder of her parents. Now, this hole in her past threatens to take away her future. When art historian Mason DuBroc falls for Karen's pottery, and eventually for Karen, he exposes her artwork to the world, provoking the killer to murder again. This time, the killer will stop at nothing to keep Karen from revealing his identity, which has been locked away in the dark recesses of her mind. With Mason's encouragement, the help of trusted friends and a resolute faith in God, Karen faces the escalating situation head-on. She eventually remembers the lost days of her childhood, warm moments with her parents--and the face of the killer who took it all away. In doing so, she rediscovers a place she had forgotten. A place that had been there all along, where she can start her life over again. And a place in her heart that can love and accept love without fear.

I picked up this book to read something a little different, and Ramona Richards didn't disappoint. It hit me in all the right places. It was inspirational and every chapter reminded me to walk daily with God and reflect on the positive. It also kept my attention the entire way through and the mystery was a unique one, leading the reader down the wrong path several times. So the ending was a complete surprise. As it should be. The characters came alive for me and had a depth that showed that author did her homework. Ramona Richards researched everything. Yes, I actually learned a little about clay and art. I also found out that I am not the only one hooked on Kona coffee, from Hawaii. Only, I am lucky enough to have family members that deliver my caffeine addiction when they come out to the mainland and visit, so I don't have to have it flown in. Ramona Richards is definitely on my radar now, and I will be watching for her new books. Hope you take time to enjoy this one too.