The word duplicity is defined as a kind of deception in which one intentionally hides their true feelings or intentions behind false words or actions. Nothing screams deception like Washington D.C. Duplicitous is an apt description of the kinds of people Detective Brett Kavanagh is dealing with in this novel by Shawn Wilson.

After his hasty retirement, Kavanagh finds himself rejuvenated by his time in Ireland but out of time on his tourist visa. Returning to the States means deciding what to do next; however, the intriguing Nora Breslin, a flight attendant he met on his travels, gives him good motivation.

Upon his return, Brett is approached by a D.C. professor who endeavors to enlist his help teaching students through an unsolved cold case. At almost the same time, his old partner Ron’s wife and 6-month-old twins disappear. Kavanagh ends up with more direction than he bargained for. What ensues is a captivating and slow-burn mystery of deception begging you to turn the page.

The storyline of this novel is realistic and almost whimsical. The progression of character development evokes feelings from the reader throughout the novel.

There is a lack of character physical descriptions which I notoriously crave in any novel; however, it didn’t ruin the story by any means. The chapters are fast-paced but not rushed.

While the twists are engaging, I found some of the resolutions to be anti-climactic. I wanted a little more drama or time spent in the dramatic situations of the plot. The cliffhangers from chapter to chapter were satisfactorily resolved but needed just a little more time.

Overall, Duplicity is a 4-star read for the mystery lover in all of us.

This book was sent to me electronically for review by Netgalley. Retirement...murder...cold cases...this is a book that is easy to read...a quick read...characters who are likable...and some not so much...who did it? Who can be trusted? Read this one and enjoy it...this author is ingenious at weaving a mystery.

DUPLICITY opens with a proposal of investigating a cold case with an unconventional approach. Before it's even started a mysterious, tragic event occurs. Heart-racing trepidation is all pervasive sending the pages flying by. Tension skyrockets in riveting, action packed chapters involving multiple surprising twists and turns until the final conclusion.

Good cop story, appropriate trust issues as the fast-paced story unfolds. The book is a sequel, but I had no problems following along

This is the first book I’ve read in the series and it’s the sequel to Relentless which introduced Brick Kavanaugh. It can be read on its own but there’s a few references to past events but it doesn’t affect the plot.
Brick is asked to look into a cold case but this is secondary to the disappearance of his former police partner’s wife and kids.
Both storylines aren’t over complicated and there’s the odd twist. I felt that the author raced over some things and spent too long on other things that didn’t matter at times.
It’s a fairly easy read and ok.

A really well written, fast paced, and gripping cop thriller!
A great story built around solid, likeable characters, it’s a great read.
Worthy of 4 stars ⭐️

Good book!! I definitely enjoyed reading this one! This book had suspense, intrigue, action and a great storyline! I will definitely recommend reading this book! It was well worth reading! Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for sharing this book with me!