Deception underway
Available on Amazon
〰️
Available on Amazon
〰️
Available on Amazon
〰️
Available on Amazon 〰️ Available on Amazon 〰️ Available on Amazon 〰️
Deception Underway is a gripping debut novel by Patrick Riley, blending suspense, romance, and the complexities of human relationships in the high-stakes environment of life in the U.S. Navy. Set during the 1990s, the novel follows Richard, a dedicated sailor navigating the challenges of duty, camaraderie, and the emotional turbulence of love and betrayal.
Richard’s journey begins with his rise through the ranks in the Navy, a testament to his determination and technical expertise in the field of Electronic Warfare. Despite excelling professionally, his personal life is marked by heartbreak and longing. His connection with Sachiko, a woman he deeply loves but is separated from due to his transfer from Japan, leaves a void he struggles to fill. While stationed aboard the USS Mount Whitney, Richard finds himself surrounded by a mix of personalities and alliances, including his new roommate Stewart, whose charm masks a web of deception that will unravel throughout the story.
Stewart’s tangled personal life becomes a focal point of the novel. Married but harboring secrets, Stewart begins a relationship with Tara, a young and sophisticated woman from Long Island. His lies and manipulations create a toxic environment, pulling Richard into the chaos. As Richard grows close to Jennifer, Tara’s best friend, he finds himself caught between his burgeoning feelings for her and his frustration with Stewart’s destructive behavior.
The novel delves deeply into the dynamics of the EW team, showcasing the camaraderie and tensions that define life aboard a Navy ship. Richard’s role as the only single sailor in the shop makes him an easy scapegoat for the marital problems of others, particularly Stewart, who deflects responsibility for his actions. Meanwhile, Richard struggles to maintain his integrity and navigate his own feelings, all while trying to be a supportive friend to Tara and Jennifer as they confront Stewart’s lies.
From the warm beaches of the Bahamas to the frenetic energy of Nassau bars, the story contrasts moments of joy and camaraderie with the mounting tension back on the ship. Richard’s ability to weave humorous sea stories lightens the mood, but his humor also serves as a defense mechanism to mask the frustration and loneliness he often feels. His relationship with Jennifer becomes a beacon of hope, yet it’s fraught with uncertainty as Stewart’s machinations threaten to push her and Tara back to Long Island.
Deception Underway takes readers on an emotional rollercoaster, exploring themes of loyalty, love, and personal growth. It is a story of resilience as Richard learns to balance the weight of his responsibilities, navigate the fallout of Stewart’s actions, and ultimately find clarity in his relationships. The novel captures the essence of life in the Navy—its challenges, bonds, and unforgettable experiences—and paints a vivid portrait of a man striving to find his place amidst the storm of deception surrounding him.Patrick Riley’s debut novel is both a heartfelt tribute to the resilience of sailors and a compelling tale of human connection and morality. It sets the stage for future stories that promise to delve even deeper into the lives of characters who embody the triumphs and trials of military life. For readers seeking an immersive story of honor, betrayal, and personal discovery, Deception Underway delivers an unforgettable journey.