Deception in Strange PlacesDeception in Strange Places by Judy Alter is the fifth book in the “Kelly O’Connell” mystery series. Publisher: Turquoise Morning Press, July 2014

A woman desperately seeking her biological mother, a televangelist determined to thwart that search, a hired hit man, and in the midst of it all, a reclusive diva. Kelly has gotten herself involved in a dangerous emotional tangle this time, and Mike doesn’t tell her to back off, even when events take them from Fort Worth to San Antonio.

I enjoyed the latest adventures with Kelly and her friends in this suspense-fully-driven and fast-paced drama that made me feel like I also part of the action. I liked how the mystery was not who did it, but how they catch the villain and bring him to justice. The build-up, with its intensifying moments, to the climatic conclusion was nicely done and I applaud the author in how it all turned out. With a comfortable tone, a small-town atmosphere, great dialogue and a wonderful cast, this was one of the best books in the series and I can’t wait to see what capers are in store Kelly and her friends.