Reign Of Fire

Deep State Mysteries #1

by Casi McLean

From USA Today Bestselling Author, Casi McLean...Customer Reviews––★★★★★"Reign of Fire is a gripping thriller with a scorching romance and a bit of paranormal. From the first page, I was hooked. The plot moves at a fast pace with twists and turns I didn't see coming. The characters are so realistically drawn, I found myself clinging to their every word. I whispered helpful hints to Emily so she'd stay out of danger. Yes, I was that immersed in the story. " --NN Light Book Heaven★★★★★"Suspense, danger, a touch of the paranormal and enough action to keep readers turning page after page. I love a good conspiracy where money and power hide in the shadows eating away at all we hold dear. Tossing in a special twin connection makes Reign of Fire a near perfect read. Romance when you least expect it puts this one over the top!" --ToMeTender★★★★★ "Romance, intrigue, conspiracy, murder and a spirit. An entertaining, unique, page turner! I highly recommend Reign of Fire to anyone who love mysteries/thrillers––DarleneEmily Rose joins forces with a the detective investigating her sister, Alyssa's murder, but she never expects to fall in love--or communicate with her twin's spirit.

Ashton Frasier accepts his detective career choice means a life of bachelorhood--until Emily Rose blows into his world. The spitting image of his latest victim holds a mysterious allure he can't deny.

Surrounded by danger, Emily and Ash must expose a dangerous faction threatening to infiltrate the government before the Deep State discovers their sting––a task made more difficult by a mystical passion burning between them.Can Alyssa fan the flames of romance between Emily and Ash while she helps them defeat the corruption that led to her death? WHEN LOVE SPARKS DANGER EVEN ASH BURNS.

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Genres: Suspense, Supernatural, Political Thriller, Romance, Mystery Thriller, Paranormal

208 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 24, 2019

About the author

USA Today & Amazon Best Selling Author, Casi McLean, pens novels to stir the soul with romance, suspense, and a sprinkle of magic. Her writing crosses genres from ethereal, captivating shorts with eerie twist endings to believable time slips, mystical plots, and sensual romantic suspense.

Known for enchanting stories with magical description, McLean entices readers with fascinating hooks to hold them captive in storylines they can't put down. Her romance entwines strong, believable heroines with delicious, hot heroes to tempt the deepest desires, then fans the flames, sweeping readers into their innermost romantic fantasies.

With suspenseful settings and lovable characters you'll devour, you'll see, hear, and feel the magical eeriness of one fateful night. You'll swear time travel could happen, be mystified by other worldly images, and feel the heat of romantic suspense, but most of all you'll want more.

Casi's latest series enters the realm of political thrillers with Reign Of Fire, exclusively found in the #1 bestselling, romantic suspense boxset, Love Under Fire. Watch the trailer exclusively on this page.

Her three-book, time slip, romantic suspense, Lake Lanier Mysteries, hit the stands running with book #1, Beneath The Lake, winner of the 2016 Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence for BEST Romantic Suspense. Watch the trailer on this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lvf0I...

Beyond The Mist, book #2 in her romantic time slip treasure chest, is a stunning tribute to the victims and first responders of the 911 World Trade Center terrorist attack. Here is the trailer link: https://youtu.be/Bj6ySTh_7xI

Between The Shadows brings the saga full circle with an amazing time slip to 1865 and a search for the Confederate gold. Don't miss this trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=voa2q...

Uniquely qualified to write self-help and inspiration, Casi tops the scale with her powerful memoir, Wingless Butterfly: Healing The Broken Child Within, sharing an inspirational message of courage, tenacity, and hope, displaying her unique ability to excel in nonfiction and self-help as well as fiction.

Discover the magic, with Casi McLean books: http://CasiMclean.com

Ms. McLean weaves exceptional romantic mystery, with suspenseful settings and lovable characters you'll devour. You'll see, hear, and feel the magical eeriness of one fateful night. You'll swear her time travel could happen, be mystified by her other worldly images, and feel heat of romantic suspense, but most of all you'll want more.

Find me:
Website: casimclean.com
Twitter: @casimclean
Facebook: Casi McLean
FB Author Page: Casi McLean-Author
Goodreads: Casi McLean

Reviews

[Dianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Twins have a special connection, a sixth sense, so when Emily started “feeling” that something had happened to her sister, Alyssa, she couldn’t have been more right. Alyssa was dead, murdered, and Emily will move heaven and earth to find her killer. What she uncovers is a powerful conspiracy group making a play to destroy America’s democracy.

Aided by the handsome detective, Ashton Frasier and her twin’s ghost, Emily may uncover more than she could have dreamed, out of the ashes of death, she may even find love.

Casi McLean’s REIGN OF FIRE combines suspense, danger, a touch of the paranormal and enough action to keep readers turning page after page. I do love a good conspiracy where money and power hide in the shadows eating away at all we hold dear. Tossing in that special twin connection, (which I have seen first-hand, more than once), makes this a near perfect read. Romance when you least expect it puts this one over the top!

Great world building, dark secrets and machinations, abuse of power, this is a must read for anyone who loves well-told suspense! And it all started with a spilled cup of coffee and an innocent woman just trying to do the job she loved.

I received a complimentary copy from Casi Mclean! This is my honest and voluntary review.

Series: Deep State Mysteries - Book 1
Publisher: Casi McLean, Inc (January 31, 2019)
Publication Date: January 31, 2019
Genre: Paranormal Suspense
Print Length: 208 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com

[N.N. Heaven · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unease floods Emily’s veins and she worries about her twin sister’s safety. When her brother, Wyatt, delivers the horrible news of her sister’s murder, her life spins out of control. She flies to DC and teams up with Detective Ash to bring her sister’s murderer to justice. The more they uncover, the more she realizes she and Ash are in mortal danger. The Deep State has infiltrated the American government and they will stop at nothing to cover their tracks. Can Emily trust her gut and her sister’s spirit guiding her, even if it means right into Ash’s embrace? Or will Emily be the next victim in the Deep State’s long list of murders?

Reign of Fire is a gripping political thriller with a scorching romance plus a bit of paranormal thrown in. From the first page, I was hooked. The premise of the Deep State is ripped from today’s headlines and if you look close enough, it rings true to what is happening with a certain government. The plot moves at a fast pace with twists and turns I didn’t see coming. The characters are so realistically drawn, I found myself clinging to their every word. I whispered helpful hints to Emily so she’d stay out of danger. Yes, I was that immersed in the story. A satisfying ending but still kept it open for the next book in the series. Casi McLean is a superb suspense author who blends suspense, romance and paranormal so seamlessly, the reader doesn’t even notice it. A political thriller not to be missed!

Favorite Character/Quote:
Emily. Not only is she a strong heroine, but her grief over her sister also adds a fragility to her that connected me with her right from the start. She’s on the hunt to find her sister’s killer but also can’t deny her attraction to Ash. She’s brave and takes risks to save those she cares for. I hope she’s in more books.

My Rating: 5+ stars

Reviewed by: Mrs. N

This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...

[N.N. Heaven · Rating 5 out of 5]

Summary –

Unease floods Emily’s veins and she worries about her twin sister’s safety. When her brother, Wyatt, delivers the horrible news of her sister’s murder, her life spins out of control. She flies to DC and teams up with Detective Ash to bring her sister’s murderer to justice. The more they uncover, the more she realizes she and Ash are in mortal danger. The Deep State has infiltrated the American government and they will stop at nothing to cover their tracks. Can Emily trust her gut and her sister’s spirit guiding her, even if it means right into Ash’s embrace? Or will Emily be the next victim in the Deep State’s long list of murders?

Narrator’s overall voice –

Kristin James has a voice made for audiobooks. Her voice is well-trained and takes on each character with a certain flair I’ve not heard before. I could listen to her read the dictionary and I’d be captivated.

Does the narrator fit the characters?

Yes, Kristin James embodies each character and breathes new life in them. As I was listening, I found myself envisioning the story through Kristin’s narration. It’s impressive to me how she brings Emily’s character to life.

Narrator’s reading style –

Kristin James has a slight accent but I don’t know if that is her own accent or Emily’s. Kristin’s voice amps up the action, drama, romance, suspense at just the right moment so the reader’s reaction is very real. My heart pounded when Emily’s did and so on. I attribute this to both the author’s story and Kristin’s interpretation of the story. So good.

Narrator’s impact on reading experience –

Kristin James brings the story to life. She elicits so much energy, the reader can’t help but become part of the story. When I finished listening, I wanted to listen to it all over again.

Narrator’s pacing –

Kristin James has the perfect pacing in Reign of Fire. She slows down when the scene calls for dramatic tension or flair. She speeds up when the story needs a pulse-pounding effect.

Audiobook flow –

The audiobook flows seamlessly as if Kristin James is reading one of her own stories. Kristin becomes part of what makes Reign of Fire such a gripping read/listen.

What makes this audiobook unique –

I’d first say the story itself. I read Reign of Fire when it first came out and it’s still one of my favorite political thrillers ever written. Combine that with Kristin James’ gift for narration and you have a deadly combination. This is one of the best audiobooks I’ve ever listened to.

Would I recommend this audiobook –

YES! YES! YES! Go now and listen to it.

My Rating: 5+ stars

Reviewed by: Mrs. N

This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...

[Coco.V]

🎁 FREE on Amazon today (5/15/2020)! 🎁

[InD'tale Magazine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Readers would not be likely to put together a political thriller with sides of paranormal and romance, but the combination of all three just fits together in this first installment of a new series.

Read full review in the 2020 March issue of InD'tale Magazine.

[Leelynn (Sometimes Leelynn Reads) ❤ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Disclaimer: I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by Casi McLean. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.

One of the things that I really loved about this novel was how the political thriller part of this was the main part of the plot. I know that the first chapter really got me thinking that it was going to go one way and then it gave me a twist that I wasn’t expecting. I’m also kind of… really creeped out at how this book really felt so lifelike? Honestly, I would not be surprised if the events in this novel really took place, or ever did. Because with the way that things are going in today’s political climate… yeah.

I was freaking obsessed with Emily and how her character was. I think it really was because of her being an investigative journalist. So already she’s looking for the clues in places that aren’t so obvious and trying to solve the mystery before it can affect others. And she still has time to get a little loving in with the detective on the case which, yeah I was kind of for and I’m hoping that it really wasn’t the product of what Emily initially thought. But either way, I liked it. I think they work really well together as a team, solving crime and playing good cop, bad cop. Maybe Emily should switch career paths? I don’t know.

I also love that this kind of became a family affair even though, yeah it wasn’t good circumstances that brought the siblings together. I also loved how close they were growing up and in the present, even thought they grew into their passions and weren’t living close to one another. I love family dynamics like that and it just made me happy to see in a novel like this.

[Talie · Rating 4 out of 5]

3 1/2 stars

I received this audiobook at no-cost from Audiobookworm Promotions. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.

Casi McLean has put together a fun paranormal thriller that is sure to excite! I mean mystery, politics, and a little paranormal thrown in for good measure? Yes please!

Emily Rose is a young reporter devastated by the loss of her sister. As she travels to Washington D.C. to identify her sister’s body it becomes increasingly clear to her that her sister’s death may not be the accident it looks like. Emily works with the detective on the case, Ashton Frasier, to help solve the mystery. As Emily and Ashton work together sparks fly.

What I really liked about the novel was the mystery. What exactly is going on? Who all is involved and how deep is the conspiracy? I thought the paranormal aspects also added a really unique element to the story line. Another favorite for me was Emily’s brother Wyatt. I’d love to see a book centered around him.

One element of the book that I felt could have been done better was the romance portion. It was just a little too much instant love for me. I would have preferred to see more about how their relationship develops as a couple.

I recommend this book for those that enjoy thrillers, especially ones with a unique spin. Also highly recommended for those that love ghost stories or the paranormal.

I listened to the audiobook version of the book. Kristin James does a good job with narration on this one. As she narrates the book she kept me interested with her expressive voice and tone. Character differentiation was well done as well. The weakness I saw was that at the end of chapters the narrator’s tone of voice would become overly dramatic. It seemed like an over exaggeration and almost a parody of a noir radio program. I really noticed it at the beginning of the book but by the end I didn’t notice it as much. Overall I think it was a good production.

[The Book Junkie Reads . . . · Rating 3 out of 5]

Something different from Casi and I liked

Overall 3 out of 5 stars
Performance 4 out of 5 stars
Story 3 out of 5 stars

This was something new and different for me from Casi. I like it. I was caught up in the intrigue of it all. The things that could get you killed whether you seen something, heard something, or heck. . . they just didn't know what you may have or have not. This was a good listen from the beginning with one sister. All the way to the end with the other sister.

Now, as for the audio quality was a bit shaky at first. It had a bit of a echo quality at the beginning. Things straightened up before the end. I did enjoy Kristin James. She gave an extra layer of realism to our characters. I am excited to see the next installment in the Deep State Mysteries.

*****
I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by Casi McLean. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.

[Nicole Dunton · Rating 5 out of 5]

A freak accident changes Alyssa's life as she knows it. It puts her in danger. Her sister Emily flies to Washington D.C. to find out what happened. She finds herself working with the investigators to solve the case. The further they get, the more they realize that it's deeper than they could possibly imagine. Between that and her growing attraction for Ash, Emily finds herself overwhelmed.

I really enjoyed this book. There were parts that were a bit cliché, but I feel they added a little bit of color to the book more than hurt it in any way. I loved the bits of NCIS in there. One of my favorite shows is based on NCIS. I think the best way to describe this book is if the show NCIS and Medium mixed with romantic suspense. I do think the cover could be tweaked a little though. It doesn't really pop well.

I really connected to Emily on a personal level. She's so passionate about others. I feel like she's an Empath like I am. I feel like Ash could have used a bit more spotlight than he got. He's a pretty intense but friendly guy. The character I really wish had more exposure to was Wyatt. I feel like he faded into the background more than anything. It was sad. I would have loved to see the relationship he had with his sister. I'd love to know more about his character as well.

This audiobook was narrated by Kristin James. It's the first book I've listened to by hers so I can't say she's a favorite. I did enjoy the story very much. I loved her voice characterizations for every character. It was refreshing and entrancing. I don't really know how to explain it better than that. I will definitely listen to other books narrated by her if given the opportunity.

I really enjoyed this book. If life hadn't gotten in the way, I'd of finished this book in one sitting. I don't really care for the cover too much. I think it could be edited a bit more, but the story itself was fantastic. It was realistic and wholesome. I'm looking forward to getting my hands on the rest of the series! I'm sure they won't disappoint me!

[Katherine Paschal · Rating 4 out of 5]

**For more reviews visit me at https://smadasbooksmack.blogspot.com/

When Emily gets a strange feeling, she knows her twin sister is dead. When the police come to her door and confirm her worst fear, she needs to know what really happened to her sister. Working with an attractive police officer who believe foul play was involved, Emily assumes her sister's life to root out the truth.

This is the third book and second series I have read from this author and I have enjoyed them all. Her worlds have enough mystery and paranormal aspects to keep me guessing and engaged while still very much being a romance at their core. Reign of Fire was no different. This was an interesting, intense mystery/thriller read that had a touch of romance and paranormal. The story was a very fast listen, at less than six hours so I was able to immerse myself in the story and listen to it completely in one day (keep in mind that I also listen to my audiobooks at at least 1.5x speed since anything less is too slow). I enjoyed the plot the author created, with a secret society that was pulling all the strings in the government as well as lots of conspiracy. I will say that most of the romance occurred within 48 hours, with some of that time the main character was in the hospital, so to say it was a whirlwind (a sexy steamy whirlwind) would be an understatement (and as we learned from the movie Speed, relationships formed in intense situations may not last).

Where the romance may have resolved (in a positive way, don't worry!) the overall mystery and set up of the secret society still has so much more to be unmasked. I would love to read the next book in the series and see what lies in wait for the main character's brother, Wyatt. Overall this was a fast paced thriller perfect for anyone who likes conspiracy theories and ghostly intervention.

I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by Casi McLean. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.

[S.R. Mallery · Rating 5 out of 5]

***** What a Great, Tense, Romantic Ride!

Sometimes the simplest thing can set off a chain of events that are irreversible––and horrendous. When Alyssa Rose accidentally collides with a man in Starbucks, she spills coffee all over him and the letters she’s about to mail. Important letters that her politician boss entrusts her with. No worries, someone says. Simply change the envelopes. But when Alyssa does just that, she discovers contents in one of them she’s obviously not supposed to see. And the plot is off and running. Murder is the next step, and like an onion peeling away, we soon learn about deep, sinister events and the characters who initiate them. Indeed, crooked Washington D.C. politicians and a shadow government are just the tip of the iceberg. We also meet Alyssa’s identical twin, Emily, her US veteran brother, Wyatt, and Ash, a sharp, highly qualified detective assigned to the case. Amidst page-turning tension, Emily’s and Ash’s instant attraction is not only of great romantic stuff, it also portrays something else. It’s a meeting of souls as well as bodies, with a tinge of the paranormal throughout. For, as the murder investigation continues to play out, McLean skillfully brings in the paranormal, with the age-old question: Do we truly understand death and its aftermath? Is there communication between the living and the dead, and if so, are people and their feelings influenced from another dimension? A highly recommended read!

[Inge-Lise Goss · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Riveting Conspiracy

“Reign of Fire” by Casi McLean is an engaging political thriller with a nice touch of a ghostly element. The very first chapter had me hooked as Alyssa Rose, an intern for a congressman, fearfully sneaks out of the Capitol and mails an envelope. Later, an unidentified female body is dragged out of the Potomac. Ash Frazier is the detective assigned the case.

Alyssa’s twin sister, Emily, an investigative journalist living in Atlanta, has a special gift of being able to sense things before being told about them. Her physic insight tells her something bad has happened to Alyssa. That’s confirmed when her brother, Wyatt, a wounded war hero, shows up at her home along with two policemen. Her twin has been murdered.

Determined to find the killer, Emily sets out for Washington to identify the body and to meet with Ash. While he’s questioning her about Alyssa’s life, she explains that Alyssa had learned about a powerful secret society undermining the government from within. This shadow government threatens democracy. Emily is convinced the secret society is responsible for Alyssa’s death.

Ash devises a plan to draw out the killer. His plan centers on Emily becoming an active participant. Emily is fiercely strong and independent. She will do whatever it takes to find the killer, even if that means putting her own life at risk. As danger grows, so does Emily’s and Ash’s attraction to each other.

This is a real page-turner filled with twists and turns that grips from the beginning to the finish. The author has skillfully blended a conspiracy that reaches to high-ranking government officials with a blossoming romance. The ghost added a unique dimension to the story. The characters are solid, masterfully created, and well-developed. Emily and Ash are extraordinarily likeable characters. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a well-written, romantic suspenseful mystery/thriller. I’ll be watching for the next book in the Deep State Mysteries series.

[wendi wigham · Rating 5 out of 5]

Duke , an exceptional friend

Alyssa & Emily are twins totally in sync all their lives, their brother, Wyatt completes the close knit trio.
E!only returns home from her work as a journalist, thoroughly spooked. She has tried ringing her sister, but has been unable to make contact. The sense of foreboding increases, then Wyatt calls to check she is home and states his intention to drop by.
He arrived with two police officers and immediately Emily knows . Alyssa is dead, murdered & found in the Potomac river.
She is given the name of the lead on the case & calls him to arrange identification of the body.
They arrange to meet next morning, Ash got a huge shock when the deceased appeared seated in front of him, what they didn't expect was the spark that arched between them, leaving them both stunned and flustered.
They discussed Alyssa's murder and Emily told him about her sister's fear that she was being followed.
This tied in with the FBI's interference with the case, planning to take it over.
They put together what they knew & surmised, coming up with a way out theory which, as the book progresses turns into a fact .
A Deep State underground movement intent on placing their own puppet President in power, with the Association controlling his every move & decision.
Alyssa communicates with her sister and the coroner and associate, Brad are sent to Alyssa's home.
When Ash & Emily arrive, they find them clearing up having performed emergency surgery on a large German shepherd called Duke.
Alyssa had got the highly trained dog for her brother Wyatt, who had lost both legs in Afghanistan and had suffered PTSD ever since.
T
Alyssa's killer had shot the dog, who had attacked him in defence of Alyssa and thrown him over the rocks beneath her deck. The dog had miraculously survived and that was what Emily had been told by her sister's apparition.
The dog accepted Emily immediately and when sufficiently recovered led them to a clue to the killer.
Ash confides in the director of NCIS, a trusted friend named Harper, and she confirms their theory of the Association as being a fact she had first come across whilst serving in Afghanistan a couple of years previously.
The story continues from there, all levels of government & security departments seem to have been compromised.
Wayne joins their small trustworthy group.
Well written, a pleasure to read. I had already read book 2, as a freebie and had been impressed . Both are good stand alone offerings, but am delighted to find out there will be further novels in the Deep State series. Off to kindle to see if and when number three will be available.

[Tony Parsons · Rating 5 out of 5]

Washington, DC. Alyssa “Lyssa” Rose (Emily’s twin daughter/sister, D) was Congressman Derek Winfield (R) intern & a courier.
Detective Ashton Frasier (Homicide), Brad Miller (forensic photographer) & Quinton Banner (ME) arrived at the crime scene.
The body had been ID as Alyssa.
Officer Kendrick informed Emily Rose (Alyssa’s twin sister, investigative journalist) & Wyatt (son/brother, retired USMC Staff Sergeant Explosive Ordnance Disposal Iraq/Afghanistan) about the deceased.

Key Bridge Marriott Rosslyn, VA. Detective Ashton “Ash” Frazier (Washington DC Metro PD) greeted Emily.
Carlton “CH” Hughes was bucking for the next Presidential candidate.
The Association had reeled him in & was backing his campaign.
FBI Director Benedict Mathis, DoJ Carson Hamilton, & Secretary of State John Collins conspired to rig the upcoming election in favor of Carlton also.
McLean, VA. 3903 44th St. North. Detective Frazier, Emily, & Wyatt arrived at Alyssa’s place.
Harper told Gunnery Sergeant Logan Steel (USMC) he is the bait to help ID/catch Deep Throat (unidentifiable guy on the phone).
The Association a secret society has implemented a silent political coup d’état.

The time the team: Emily, Detective Ashton “Ash” Frasier (# 3829), Duke (German Shepherd), Quint, NCIS sharpshooters: Parker Teal, Victor Price, Wyatt positioned themselves into their assigned posts, as the sun went down in the Battery Kemble Park.
911. Georgetown MedStar. Emily had been shot.

I do not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing free books from publishers & authors. Therefore, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one.

An awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very professionally written political thriller book. It was quite easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great description list of unique characters, settings, facts etc. to keep track of. This could also make another great political thriller movie, or better yet a mini TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is an extremely easy rating of 5 stars.

Thank you for the free author; Goodreads; MakingConnections; Making Connections discussion group talk; AmazonCrossing; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; ARR book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)

[Aaron Lazar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reign of Fire by USA Today bestselling author, Casi McClean, is the first book in the Deep State Mysteries series. Set in dazzling Washington DC, this fast paced mystery is also part political thriller, part steamy romance, and part paranormal.

I’m not going to rehash the plot, because you can easily read about it in the book description or in the many other reviews. I’d rather tell you what I enjoyed.

Several characters dominate the story, including the fiery protagonist, Emily Rose, dynamic detective Ashton Frasier, Emily's murdered twin sister Alyssa, who appears as a spirit, her amazing war veteran brother, Wyatt, and the brave Pets for Vets dog, Duke.

As always, although it wasn’t the primary theme in this story, I absolutely love the elements of the wounded warrior and the dog who I’m hoping will become his best companion in the next books in the series.

I also really appreciated the deep sense of true patriotism shown by the author in her analysis of what’s gone wrong in government, why we need to return to our ideals as a nation, and how the “Deep State” has taken control of so many aspects of our lives purely for power and money. Many of the fundamental ideas discussed by the characters rang true to me and I cheered them on as they tried to “drain the swamp” and expose the sleazy politicians.

While there is a great deal of political theorizing and revelation going on, there are also many action-packed scenes that move the plot forward. My favorite scene was the sting set up between the heroes and the villain in a Washington park at night. The tension was high, the action was well-depicted, and the environment was beautifully described. I felt as if I were right beside Ash and Emily. I could feel the cool March breeze on my face, smell the cherry blossoms, and relate to the adrenaline shooting through the heroes’ veins.

Anyone who reads this first story in the series will want to continue to see what ungodly secrets our new heroic team discovers about our government. I, for one, will be cheering them on throughout the series!

[Eric J. Gates · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I’m looking for a genre-busting thriller, there’s no better author than Casi McLean. I was intrigued by the solid storyline announced for the second book in her Deep State Mysteries series. However, I realized that I had not read the first. I quickly remedied that. ‘Reign of Fire’, the germinal book in the series, is aimed at YA readers, according to its listing, and I think that is a disservice to the tale. As in many of her other novels, under the guise of a romantic thriller, author McLean tackles the erosion of the democratic system in the United States, and the behind-the-scenes manipulation of both the elected government and the voting public in general. Indeed a lofty subject for younger readers.

The key characters in this series are twins. Identical twins who have enjoyed passing themselves off as each other whilst growing up. However, life has now taken the adult sisters and set them on very distinct paths. Alyssa is working as an intern for the political campaign of a US Congressman, and her twin, Emily, is an investigative journalist who thrives using her unique insights, almost premonitions. A fortuitous accident places Alyssa in a situation where she sees something that she should never have witnessed, and sets off a deadly response by dark forces.

Thus far, the tale might seem to be intriguing, yet with a theme exploited in many previous political thrillers. Yet that is the moment when Casi McLean’s genius as a writer kicks in, and she throws a twist that immediately hooks the reader further. From this point onward, the tale unfolds with fast-paced action, credible characters and a unique supernatural vibe. I confess, I finished the book almost in one sitting. So, if you are looking for a different, highly-original, political-romance thriller with big stakes, this is the series for you. Highly recommended!

[Uvi Poznansky · Rating 5 out of 5]

REIGN OF FIRE combines elements that I never imagined coming together—murder, political conspiracy, romance, and the apparition of the victim—to create a highly engaging read. Allysa’s body is found in the river; her twin sister Emily, who possesses a sixth sense, had a feeling of Alyssa being in trouble. Detective Ashton Frasier is investigating the case, and there is an instant spark between him and Emily. They ry to set aside their undeniable attraction in order to keep a cool head, interpret the clues, and find the killer. What complicates things even further is their notion that Alyssa’s death has a connection with a Shadow Government, tries to undermine democracy and create an oppressive world order.

I enjoy being brought into the local setting: “Heavy fog covering the city earlier had lifted, but despite the forecast calling for sun, the front still hung low along the Potomac River.” Even more than that, I love the way the main premise is boiled down in this story: “Why did she confide in this man? Despite his striking dark hair and silver-blue eyes mesmerizing her, she knew nothing about him. Blindly trusting a stranger could have cost Alyssa her life, but if Emily didn’t join forces with this detective, would she have any chance of finding Alyssa’s murderer?” The twist in the plot is that Ash wants to use Emily as bait, because of her resemblance to Allysa, so the killer may think has killed the wrong girl, and try for his crime all over again.

The dialogue is witty, and makes use of the symbolic elements of this title. When Ash says, “Perhaps we can lure in and capture your dragon,” Emily responds with, “If ignored, the eggs will hatch and breathe a reign of fire that will scorch democracy beyond recognition––from the inside out.”

Five stars.

[LeMiliere · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book, I enjoyed it so much that I downloaded the audio version so I wouldn't have to stop enjoying the story when I had other things to do. So my review is written after both reading and listening to this immensely enjoyable and intriguing story.

Alissa Rose was a twin so when she was murdered her twin sister Emily decides to try and find out why someone would kill Alissa who was interning in Washington DC, did she discover something she shouldn't?

Ashton Frasier, a handsome detective, found Alissa's body so he's the first person she goes to see after arriving in DC. When these two meet there is an instant connection - will this lead to romance?

She, her older brother Wyatt and Ash make a plan to find out the truth behind Alyssa’s murder and they get some unexpected help from Alissa - the connection between twins is strong!

This leads to the discovery of cover-ups and rogue officials, as well as lots of intrigue and so many surprises. There's also Duke a German Shepard they find during their investigation, I was sold by then if I hadn't been before, as I love dogs. But how does he fit in?

I could tell you so much more but that would involve spoilers which I refuse to do. What I will say is that if you, like me, enjoy a good mystery, lots of intrigues, palpable chemistry, great writing and hot romance, then this compelling and engaging tale is one you will enjoy.

The writing style is great, easy to follow and descriptive, the characters are well-drawn, and we have the spiritual world too, what more could we ask for?

The narration by Kristin James is well done and added to my enjoyment of the story.

[Tamara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Packed With Intrigue, Romance And Suspense!!

REIGN OF FIRE, Book One of the Deep State Mysteries by Casi McLean is a gripping, entertaining murder mystery and political thriller with paranormal elements and loads of romance.

Alyssa Rose, a government employee interning in Washington, is found murdered. When Detective Ash Frasier discovers her body in the river, her twin sister Emily, who possesses a six sense, arrives on the scene. Along with Emily’s older brother Wyatt, a wounded warrior, the three of them launch a plan to discover the truth about Alyssa’s murder.

There’s an instant spark between Ash and Emily, which complicates the situation more, and they do their best to keep their relationship under control for the sake of the investigation so they can find the killer.

Turns out Alyssa Rose had accidentally discovered a letter involving a conspiracy to overthrow the government. Between illegal coverups happening between officials and unearthing the Shadow Government, who’s goal was to undermine democracy and create a new order, the intrigue goes even deeper than expected, so Ash and Emily decide to use Emily’s resemblance to Alyssa to try and entrap a killer.

Packed with intrigue, romance and suspense, Reign of Fire is an incredibly well-written captivating story by a highly talented author, and the story will have you turning the pages from beginning to end.

I give it 5 stars and I highly recommend it!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book for free. I am voluntarily leaving this review and all opinions expressed herein are mine.

This is the first book in the Deep State Myseries series. Alyssa is an intern for the government who is on her way to mail some letters. Before she gets the envelops in the mail, coffee is accidentally spilled on them. Alyssa decides to open the mail and swap the envelopes for fresh ones. But, now she's seen what she wasn't supposed to see and for that she is murdered. Alyssa's twin sister Emily agrees to work with the handsome detective to uncover who is involved with Alyssa's murder by pretending to be Alyssa. Now, they are after Emily but she has no idea who they are or why they want to kill her.

This is a very good suspenseful thriller. I enjoyed the paranormal twin aspect to this story. So there's a good mystery and a ghost - what's not to love? My only problem, and this might not bother other readers, but Emily and the detective are immediately carnally attracted to one another - and I kept thinking - really, didn't your sister just die? I wish the story had just focused on Alyssa's murder/investigation and perhaps waited for Emily and the detective's romance for a later book in the series.

I listened to this book - the narrator did a very nice job.

[**Elle**Bee**Double U** · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emily Rose and her siblings Alyssa and Wyatt used to discuss the possibilities of a shadow government that might be looking to overthrow the American Democracy. Especially after Wyatt's latest tours in Afghanistan. Both Emily and Alyssa took jobs to try and make a difference, but neither expected their attempts to make a difference would cost one of them their life.

Now Emily is teaming up with Ashton Fraiser, the detective who found her twin's dead body, to uncover the secrets that Alyssa had found that cost her her life. What Emily didn't expect what the instant attraction to Ash that couldn't have happened at the worst of times.

Reign of Fire is such an amazing book! It was an interesting book that kept me enthralled and my mind constantly wondering what would happen next and how deep does this shadow government go. I think what made this even better is there is some reality to what the author wrote about in this book. There are many people who are convinced and have their own theories about how the government is ran and how they keep their "secrecy".

[Stephanie N · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this epic tale, Alyssa Rose ends up murdered after she stumbles upon a letter involving a conspiracy to overthrow our Government. With the devastating news of her sister’s murder, her twin Emily Rose and brother Wyatt head to Washington to help find her killer. Once in Washington DC,Emily meets up with Detective Ashton Frasier and it was love at first sight with a little help from Emily’s deceased sister. Will Alyssa’s murder be solved? Will Ash and Emily become a romantic couple? Will Emily be able to continue with her sixth sense, or will she lose the connection she has had with Alyssa? You must read the novel to find out.

Ms. McClean writes a compelling and engaging tale. Her characters are well drawn and it’s crystal clear as to the roles they play. Her dialogue is witty, in-depth, romantic, and suspenseful. Furthermore, she engages in the spiritual world with love, protection, and strength.

Five glorious stars.

[Elysian Fields · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story was a thrill ride. We get transported deep into a murder mystery, politics, action and a hint of romance. The story was well written and detailed; I could have just walked into the story and been another character. I liked the development of the relationship and how the plot played out. I was thrilled along with questioning the mystery. I didn’t guess anything so that was nice. There was a hint of supernatural (or at least otherworldly belief). I liked the mixture of the two; I think it was a nice balance in the story. I also liked the characters, they were detailed and real, yet not over the top or out of place, if that make sense.

I think this was a nice read. My only issue what they I had no connection to the characters so I didn’t “feel” for them or their relationship. It was like reading their adventure rather than feeling their connection. Not a major issue, I just prefer to be connected to those I read. I am interested in this series now. 3.75 stars.

[Vickie Chaisson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reign of Fire

Reign of Fire is an adrenaline filled rollercoaster ride of deceit, murder, traitors at the highest government levels and new found love. This suspenseful novel takes the reader through a twin sister Emily trying to find out who murdered her sister Alyssa. Emily meets the lead police detective on the case and they realize that the trail leads to just a murder but treachery at the highest government level to take over the American government. This author entices the reader from page one with strong character development and detailed story line. The characters are fully fleshed and all need their own story line told to bring the traitors to justice. Cannot wait for the rest of this series. The super natural element added to the story and I read this in one sitting. I will definitely be reading more this author.

[Paula Dyches · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you’re in it for espionage or crime, keep looking.

Narrator: ok, it was hard to tell the different men apart. Good sense of rhythm though.
Sex: references to arousal, heavy detailed shower scenes (R)
Language: (R) with fbombs
Violence: PG13
Story: interesting storyline, feels a bit rushed but I like fast paced stories so it isn’t bothersome for me. The wheels of justice don’t turn as quickly as this book would lead readers to believe and the supernatural elements are kind of odd combined with everything else. Decent first book, too many stars aligned for me to want to read the second. To be fair, I prefer my crime books to be crime and not 75-80% one night stand turned hot and heavy romance.

—I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.

[Tena Stetler · Rating 5 out of 5]

A terrible feeling that something is very wrong leads Emily Rose to discover her twin, Alyssa Rose has been slain. Did the faction threatening the White House and American’s democracy have anything to do with it?
Emily joins forces with a team investigating her sister’s death. Ashton Frasier the detective on the case suggests Emily pretend to be Alyssa in an effort to flush out the killer, but time is not on their side.
Can the ghost of Emily’s sister help uncover the truth? Will the attraction between Ashton and Emily help or hurt the investigation? No spoilers here, so you need to pick up your own copy and see what happens. Murder, mystery, and paranormal elements make Reign of Fire a great Romantic Thriller, I highly recommend.

[Jocelyne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first Casi McLean's book, and won't be my last. This is the first book in the Deep State Mysteries Series. This is a great Political thriller/Romantic Suspense with paranormal elements. The story is well written and captivating. Emily and Asthon are great characters. The secondary characters are also interesting. Emily's sister ghost adds paranormal elements to the story. I like it! The storyline is fast-paced, action packed and suspenseful. Kristin James did an amazing job with the narration. I enjoyed my listening. I would love to listen to the next book in the Series. I'm looking forward for more books written by this author. I was given a free review copy of the audiobook — at my request — and have voluntarily left this review.

[Jamie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Casi McLean was a new to me Author prior to listening to Reign of Fire,however, I am now hooked and cant wait to start book 2.
Emily Rose is distraught and reeling from the loss of her twin sister. When she meets detective Ash Frasier her world is turned upside down in more than one way.
To say I loved this story would be an understatement. I was immediately cativated by the mystery and suspense and I held on for a wild ride with many twists and turns. I found I could not spot listening to this story. I finished it in under 12 hours.
I would highly recommend this story.
I also have to give a shout out to the amazing narrator. Her tone and voices for the characters helped bring out the amazingness of this story. Kristin James is fantastic.

[Christi Fowler · Rating 4 out of 5]

Title: Reign of Fire
Author: Casi McLean
Format: Audio
Narrator: Kristin James
Genre: Romantic Suspense, Political Thriller, Police, Twins, Paranormal (Ghosts)
Standalone: Ish
Part of a Series: Book 1 of the Deep State Mysteries
POV: Alyssa, Ash, Emily
Steam Level: Fade to Black
4/5

Reign of Fire is a fast-paced political thriller that resonated a little too closely to today's political climate. Reign of Fire is a smart story, part police "who dunnit," part conspiracy, and part paranormal. It drew me in from the start. While the story finished the storyline is not. Reign of Fire is a great start to a new series.

I received this audiobook for free from StoryOrigin. This is my honest and voluntary review.

[Michele · Rating 3 out of 5]

I don't think that I am in the target audience for this book. I am a huge paranormal and fantasy fan. As a paranormal fan who likes reading epic fantasies, the paranormal aspects of this book failed to pass the believability test. There wasn't enough background and explanation. I felt like the supernatural aspects of this book were sprinkled in randomly like salt - like the author wanted to write a "paranormal" book, but hasn't read very many of them. I wanted more cohesiveness, flow, and meaning.

I don't think that the narrator helped the book. I am going to go out on a limb and say that I don't think the narrator believed the story. I also could not always tell which male character was speaking.