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The Art of Deceit
Sex, drugs, lies and video tape all dwell in the shadows of hip hop. A world that is glamorous and alluring can blind its participants to certain truths. This euphoric illusion which is full of money, women, and power, can also be deceiving. You start to believe that the fame will last forever. That the people around you are really your friends, and that the scandalous woman at your side really loves you for the person that you are. Stardom can become dangerous for the naïve souls who rise to success without armor. Tangie, who has mastered The Art Of Deceit slithers her way into the heart of many and into the wallets of even more, her latest victim being Hip Hop’s newest sensation Tay’von-Too Fine- Miller. Tay’von is told by his record label that he needs a better looking woman on his arm because the public will deem his plus size girlfriend unbefitting for a rising star. So he pulls Tangie into his world hoping to use her for her looks, only to get rid of her when he is done. But he has highly underestimated her. Her charm is hypnotic, that of a snake charmer, and as strong as the magic from a voodoo priest. Once she has cast her spell, she is sure to bring any man or woman down to their knees. She rules with a blackened heart and shows no mercy to people like Shamika, the spiteful girlfriend of equally talented but not as successful rapper Black Dialect. Tangie will stop at nothing to secure her lifestyle, even if that means shaking hands with a record label owner who Tay’von has proclaimed a sworn enemy. Carmello wants Tay’von to sign to his record label, and Tangie wants revenge. Together they hatch a plan that will give them both what they want. What will happen when Tay’von, his bodyguard, the sexy R&B tour mate Amira, and Carmello all fall under Tangie’s spell? Death, Debauchery, and Deceit, now if only everything would go as planned.
324 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 31, 2011
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149 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
March 27, 2012
Perhaps I missed something, or my copy of the book was not the same as everyone elses. I do not understand how this book got so many five star ratings. I am still trying to figure out what the premise of the story is. For one, I thought that this was an urban fiction novel, not an erotic novel. Don't get me wrong, I like a good sex scene, but there was sex in EVERY chapter of this book. Seriously... How many times can someone go down on you, finger you, you ride them, or give them head before you've heard that same song and dance enough? I mean we get it, ole girl likes sex. The fact that it was repeated over and over and over again was a hot mess because it lead me to believe she had a mental problem, though the book never tells you one way or the other what is wrong with her.
That's the other thing about this book that turned me off. Tangie has no background. All we know is that her mother died in a plane crash and that her father is a brazilian photographer (of course because she can't just be a regular black chick and be stunningly beautiful). That being said, we dont know why she wants to deceive everyone or why she does the things she does. Frankly, her actions at the very end of the book seem completely out of left field. I suppose the author wanted to throw a twist in there but it was a twist out of nowhere. For her to suddenly commit murder after all she'd done was screw people (and I mean sexually) was a complete wtf moment... and not in a good way.
Shameka's deal with Carmello made absolutely no sense whatsoever. I suppose the author was trying to get us to develop an interest in the second book to find out what the point was, but it was executed poorly. I dont care what the deal was at this point... don't care if anybody will survive. Don't care who Tangie's baby's father is or even if the baby will live. I developed no emotional attachment to any of the characters because the author didnt provide any rhyme or reason to who these people were. The only person that I would be mildly interested in, was Connie, Tayvon's old girfrlend who gets a two second mention and perhaps a three second show up in the book. Other than that, I dont know what the point of the story is. The flashbacks make no sense. The revenge plot against Shameka makes no sense. Wow, she gave your boyfriend laced weed. Big whoop. He's sitting there smoking and snorting cocaine like it's going out of style, but laced weed is a no no. smh. The revenge plot in my opinion was petty. I can see that perhaps the author wrote this first book with the second book in mind. She knows how it will end up in the second book and tries to throw references in the first, but considering her audience doesnt know what she knows, we have no idea what she's talking about. There were so many ideas thrown out there that it just didnt come together in a congruent way. This is just my opinion, as obviously others liked this book. I am perhaps just a person that prefers a character driven story rather than a plot driven story. To me, the characters (even if they are crazy) should make sense. To just throw out a bunch of random actions to drive the plot is not a good way to develop a story, in my humble opinion.
That's the other thing about this book that turned me off. Tangie has no background. All we know is that her mother died in a plane crash and that her father is a brazilian photographer (of course because she can't just be a regular black chick and be stunningly beautiful). That being said, we dont know why she wants to deceive everyone or why she does the things she does. Frankly, her actions at the very end of the book seem completely out of left field. I suppose the author wanted to throw a twist in there but it was a twist out of nowhere. For her to suddenly commit murder after all she'd done was screw people (and I mean sexually) was a complete wtf moment... and not in a good way.
Shameka's deal with Carmello made absolutely no sense whatsoever. I suppose the author was trying to get us to develop an interest in the second book to find out what the point was, but it was executed poorly. I dont care what the deal was at this point... don't care if anybody will survive. Don't care who Tangie's baby's father is or even if the baby will live. I developed no emotional attachment to any of the characters because the author didnt provide any rhyme or reason to who these people were. The only person that I would be mildly interested in, was Connie, Tayvon's old girfrlend who gets a two second mention and perhaps a three second show up in the book. Other than that, I dont know what the point of the story is. The flashbacks make no sense. The revenge plot against Shameka makes no sense. Wow, she gave your boyfriend laced weed. Big whoop. He's sitting there smoking and snorting cocaine like it's going out of style, but laced weed is a no no. smh. The revenge plot in my opinion was petty. I can see that perhaps the author wrote this first book with the second book in mind. She knows how it will end up in the second book and tries to throw references in the first, but considering her audience doesnt know what she knows, we have no idea what she's talking about. There were so many ideas thrown out there that it just didnt come together in a congruent way. This is just my opinion, as obviously others liked this book. I am perhaps just a person that prefers a character driven story rather than a plot driven story. To me, the characters (even if they are crazy) should make sense. To just throw out a bunch of random actions to drive the plot is not a good way to develop a story, in my humble opinion.
October 23, 2011
Snake Pit
Tangie is a woman on a mission. She knows what she wants and goes after it. She's also one that shouldn't be crossed. She stays ahead of the game and never allows anyone to see her sweat. The hip hop industry can be treacherous. If one is not careful, they could lose it all in an instant. Tay' Von, Carl, Amira and Carmello all have one thing in common--they fall hard for Tangie. Who loses what?
I rate Fabiola Joseph’s “The Art of Deceit” 3 stars because it started out a little slow and didn’t hold my attention. After a few chapters, however, it did pick up. The only way I can describe this book is - RAW. Everything is in your face. There were times when I thought the sex was a little over the top. The twists will keep you on the edge of your seat. Fabiola Joseph does a great job of taking you behind the scenes of hip hop and showing the grime that can lurk in the bling.
Reviewed by: Jas
Tangie is a woman on a mission. She knows what she wants and goes after it. She's also one that shouldn't be crossed. She stays ahead of the game and never allows anyone to see her sweat. The hip hop industry can be treacherous. If one is not careful, they could lose it all in an instant. Tay' Von, Carl, Amira and Carmello all have one thing in common--they fall hard for Tangie. Who loses what?
I rate Fabiola Joseph’s “The Art of Deceit” 3 stars because it started out a little slow and didn’t hold my attention. After a few chapters, however, it did pick up. The only way I can describe this book is - RAW. Everything is in your face. There were times when I thought the sex was a little over the top. The twists will keep you on the edge of your seat. Fabiola Joseph does a great job of taking you behind the scenes of hip hop and showing the grime that can lurk in the bling.
Reviewed by: Jas
November 14, 2011
Sneaky, money grubbing, low- down, deceitful, cold hearted. Those are the very words to come to mind when describing the main character in this very well thought out story. Readers meet Tangie a young beautiful female on the come up, she went from rump shaking in music videos to marrying one of the hottest rappers on the scene, Mr Tayvon Too Fine. It's a wonder how the wedding even took place considering he found out the she was also sleeping with the hottest female R&B singer on the map. Good thing he didn't find out she was also sleeping with his bodyguard, and one of his rivals.When it came to getting something Tangie wanted or wanted done she had no problem using sex as her weapon. Please don't dare to cross this snake or you will get bitten in the worst way, that's what she told the last person that crossed her. She was almost right but somewhere towards the end things go horribly wrong, just when things had started to go so right. The person that she seeked revenge on was feeling the pain, she was rich, pregnant and just finally realizing that she loved Tayvon. Yes she finally loved him and not just for his money or his fame. But her plan back fires and the wrong person ends up getting hurt. The Art Of Deceit was the perfect name for this book, because it had to be an art form that Tangie was born with. Being that deceitful cant be learned on the streets or in any school, you have to straight be born with it. It amazed me through the whole book how Tangie could be so wicked, I'm talking not a morsel of remorse or guilt for the things that she did. I also have to give Ms. Tangie her props too because she was one smart cookie, you had to be smart to think of the things she did to get back at her enemy. Although in the end she wasn't smart enough. This story grabbed my attention from day one, the story was told in first person and was told well. The plot flowed, I never knew what Tangie was gonna do next which means the story had me guessing, which is a good thing. The ending I never really saw coming it was a total surprise. The authors were very creative, and descriptive in telling this story. So now you already know what time it it. That's right Q&A.....
Would I recommend this book to anyone else? Hell yeah this book was fire.
How would I rate this book on a scale of 1-10? Ten baby straight 10
Would I buy any other books from these authors based off this one? Yes I would
Would I recommend this book to anyone else? Hell yeah this book was fire.
How would I rate this book on a scale of 1-10? Ten baby straight 10
Would I buy any other books from these authors based off this one? Yes I would
April 14, 2013
The Art Of Deceit takes a behind-the-scenes look at the world of hip-hop through the eyes of Tangie, a video vixen turned opportunist. Tangie has set her sights on the man of the hour, hip-hop phenomenon Tay’von Too-Fine Miller, and stops at nothing to win his heart and all the money that comes along with it.
Tangie uses her feminine wiles to entice Tay’von and his entire entourage, skillfully using what she has to get what she wants. When the threat of exposure at the hands of Shamika, the girlfriend of Tay’von’s label mate, Black Dialect, jeopardizes her goal, Tangie uses sex, deception, lies and videotape to try to discredit Shamika’s allegations—even if it means ending Black Dialect’s career.
In the end, Tangie achieves what she sets out to accomplish and becomes the leading lady in Tay’von’s life with an ever-increasing bank account, but at what cost to her and all those she encounters?
The Art Of Deceit offers a new spin on a familiar theme. I’m looking forward to Part II, as the ending leaves the fate of Tay’von and Tangie up in the air and the lives of many hanging in the balance. It was a very entertaining read filled with erotic sex scenes, an unexpected love story and a tangled web of deception. Fabiola Joseph has weaved an engaging tale that holds your attention until the very end.
Michelle Cuttino
AAMBC Reviewer
Tangie uses her feminine wiles to entice Tay’von and his entire entourage, skillfully using what she has to get what she wants. When the threat of exposure at the hands of Shamika, the girlfriend of Tay’von’s label mate, Black Dialect, jeopardizes her goal, Tangie uses sex, deception, lies and videotape to try to discredit Shamika’s allegations—even if it means ending Black Dialect’s career.
In the end, Tangie achieves what she sets out to accomplish and becomes the leading lady in Tay’von’s life with an ever-increasing bank account, but at what cost to her and all those she encounters?
The Art Of Deceit offers a new spin on a familiar theme. I’m looking forward to Part II, as the ending leaves the fate of Tay’von and Tangie up in the air and the lives of many hanging in the balance. It was a very entertaining read filled with erotic sex scenes, an unexpected love story and a tangled web of deception. Fabiola Joseph has weaved an engaging tale that holds your attention until the very end.
Michelle Cuttino
AAMBC Reviewer
December 7, 2011
Freshman author Fabiola Joseph has penned a stellar work! She takes you through the ins and out of a celebrity, hip-hop, world that few get to bear witness to but most are intrigued by.
The main character, Tangie, is a woman on a mission as she uses her beauty, charisma, street smarts, and sexuality all for evil. She even said herself, that she is a snake! She is the character that you love to hate as she weaves her web, ensnaring not-so innocent victims along the way. That is the part that leaves me not really being too mad at all her treacherous pursuits at the end of the day, because aside from maybe Amira and Black, all of the characters had dirt with them. She just played a game of chess not checkers and was more strategic. I loved the reference to a scene in the movie "Natural Born Killers" to describe this chick because if you ever start feeling sympathetic towards Tangie or start feeling a little 'Captain Save a Ho-ish' just keep that passage in mind and you'll straighten up! This is a page-turner that takes you on a roller-coaster ride of emotions from beginning to end!
Sex, Drugs, and Hip-Hop!!
The main character, Tangie, is a woman on a mission as she uses her beauty, charisma, street smarts, and sexuality all for evil. She even said herself, that she is a snake! She is the character that you love to hate as she weaves her web, ensnaring not-so innocent victims along the way. That is the part that leaves me not really being too mad at all her treacherous pursuits at the end of the day, because aside from maybe Amira and Black, all of the characters had dirt with them. She just played a game of chess not checkers and was more strategic. I loved the reference to a scene in the movie "Natural Born Killers" to describe this chick because if you ever start feeling sympathetic towards Tangie or start feeling a little 'Captain Save a Ho-ish' just keep that passage in mind and you'll straighten up! This is a page-turner that takes you on a roller-coaster ride of emotions from beginning to end!
Sex, Drugs, and Hip-Hop!!
July 27, 2012
I'm not going to discuss the men in this book because, simply stated, their actions/reactions are based on physical attraction and their penises. The prime example is Tay's telling Tangie that she's "just a star fucker." He knows this about her, but his attraction to her and his enthrallment with her sexual prowess override this. He tells his bodyguard "She got a nigga hooked and there's nothing that I could do about it." Well, there is something he could do about it -- walk the other way.
But I digress...
I've read books before where a character did or said something that was so overboard it made the character ridiculous. That's not the case here. The characters in this book are very well developed and realistic. Their words and actions are consistent and in sync with the characterization the author has set out to show the reader. The women characters in this book intrigued me.
Tangie
The main character set off a rollercoaster of emotions for me.
1. Admiration - She's a go-getter who lets nothing get in her way. When she sees something she wants, she goes after it. No matter what else she has going on, her eyes remain on her ultimate goal. She is a master manipulator/charmer and no one she comes across is immune to it.
2. Hate - I hated her for the things she did to get what she wanted - Seducing Carl and rubbing it in his face that they'll never be together because he doesn't make enough money for her. Taking the groupie to the hotel room as a "gift" for Tayvon and her rejection of Amira because leaving Tay would be walking away from what she'd aspired to all her life and losing the material things that it represented.
3. Sympathy - Her sexuality rules her. She uses sex to control and manipulate, with the exception of Amira. She found true love with Amira, but was afraid of what others would think/say. Her grief over Amira's death was heartwrenching. The author vividly paints the picture of the denial phase and the reader can't help but feel sorry for Tangie.In different places in the story, we get brief glimpses of a sad little girl who feels like she's on her own with no one else to look out for her well-being and happiness. This is where her "get him/her before he/she gets me" attitude stems from. I would be interested to know the kind of childhood she had. Her mother instilled a lot of her attitude in her. It would also be interesting to know her mother's story.
4. Finally, I must admit that Tangie is a woman that I fear. The insecure part of me quakes at the thought that a woman like her might decide she wants my significant other, whether it be for money, sex, or whatever. Someone like me would have not no chance whatsoever in trying to stand up to or fight against the ruthlessness with which she operates.
Shamika
While on the surface, Shamika isn't a nice person, I sympathized with her character. Not because of what Tangie did to her, but because of who she is. She's a hood chick struggling to fit in. Her actions are a desperate attempt to come up from the lower ranks to the upper eschelon. With her preoccupation with trying to fit in and be the person she thinks she should be, she doesn't realize that she's trying too hard and pushing Black to look elsewhere. It's obvious that she comes from a background of poverty or just barely making it. She wants a big house like Tay and Tangie's instead of the simple townhome that she and Black share. She envies Tangie's jewelry and clothes. The material things that she sees Tangie with is what she wants for herself. It's hard for me to determine whether she truly does love Black or whether she's holding on to his potential. In her words, they have a "thug love," not a kissy, kissy love like Tangie and Tay. In my opinion, she doesn't know what love is and is simply looking for a method of come-up.
Amira
This character was only in the book for a short while, but her presence had the greatest impact on the story by bringing out the other side of Tangie's character. Amira was a tragic character. Because of her career in the spotlight, her personal relationships were affected. She was having to suppress who she was to keep her fans happy, but in meeting and falling in love with Tangie, she was willing to risk her career. When Tangie wasn't brave enough to admit to reciprocal feelings, Amira wasn't emotionally able to cope with it. Tangie was her downfall.
***** SPOILER ALERT! *****
Once I sat down to read, I couldn't stop until I finished the book. I can't wait for the sequel to find out what happens. Part of me hopes that Tay isn't really dead, that maybe it's one of the body guards or Carmello. I want to know whose baby Tangie is carrying. I'm a little surprised that with her mindset of sex as a tool, she wouldn't make sure the men wrap it up or that she wasn't on some type of birth control.
While the story is entertaining, I'm a little disappointed that she didn't get any punishment for her actions. Yes, she lost Amira, but that loss doesn't seem to have changed her. It's as if she cried it out and now she's moved on with her life. She uses and abuses people and it doesn't seem to affect her at all. Her character remains consistent in her "all about me" attitude. She doesnt' seem to grow from that. Maybe in the sequel she will.
I applaud the author for a well-written story. She is certainly a wonderful storyteller. This was my first time reading her work and I look forward to reading more. I give this book 4 out of 5 stars.
A copy of this book was provided by the author for review. I received no compensation.
But I digress...
I've read books before where a character did or said something that was so overboard it made the character ridiculous. That's not the case here. The characters in this book are very well developed and realistic. Their words and actions are consistent and in sync with the characterization the author has set out to show the reader. The women characters in this book intrigued me.
Tangie
The main character set off a rollercoaster of emotions for me.
1. Admiration - She's a go-getter who lets nothing get in her way. When she sees something she wants, she goes after it. No matter what else she has going on, her eyes remain on her ultimate goal. She is a master manipulator/charmer and no one she comes across is immune to it.
2. Hate - I hated her for the things she did to get what she wanted - Seducing Carl and rubbing it in his face that they'll never be together because he doesn't make enough money for her. Taking the groupie to the hotel room as a "gift" for Tayvon and her rejection of Amira because leaving Tay would be walking away from what she'd aspired to all her life and losing the material things that it represented.
3. Sympathy - Her sexuality rules her. She uses sex to control and manipulate, with the exception of Amira. She found true love with Amira, but was afraid of what others would think/say. Her grief over Amira's death was heartwrenching. The author vividly paints the picture of the denial phase and the reader can't help but feel sorry for Tangie.In different places in the story, we get brief glimpses of a sad little girl who feels like she's on her own with no one else to look out for her well-being and happiness. This is where her "get him/her before he/she gets me" attitude stems from. I would be interested to know the kind of childhood she had. Her mother instilled a lot of her attitude in her. It would also be interesting to know her mother's story.
4. Finally, I must admit that Tangie is a woman that I fear. The insecure part of me quakes at the thought that a woman like her might decide she wants my significant other, whether it be for money, sex, or whatever. Someone like me would have not no chance whatsoever in trying to stand up to or fight against the ruthlessness with which she operates.
Shamika
While on the surface, Shamika isn't a nice person, I sympathized with her character. Not because of what Tangie did to her, but because of who she is. She's a hood chick struggling to fit in. Her actions are a desperate attempt to come up from the lower ranks to the upper eschelon. With her preoccupation with trying to fit in and be the person she thinks she should be, she doesn't realize that she's trying too hard and pushing Black to look elsewhere. It's obvious that she comes from a background of poverty or just barely making it. She wants a big house like Tay and Tangie's instead of the simple townhome that she and Black share. She envies Tangie's jewelry and clothes. The material things that she sees Tangie with is what she wants for herself. It's hard for me to determine whether she truly does love Black or whether she's holding on to his potential. In her words, they have a "thug love," not a kissy, kissy love like Tangie and Tay. In my opinion, she doesn't know what love is and is simply looking for a method of come-up.
Amira
This character was only in the book for a short while, but her presence had the greatest impact on the story by bringing out the other side of Tangie's character. Amira was a tragic character. Because of her career in the spotlight, her personal relationships were affected. She was having to suppress who she was to keep her fans happy, but in meeting and falling in love with Tangie, she was willing to risk her career. When Tangie wasn't brave enough to admit to reciprocal feelings, Amira wasn't emotionally able to cope with it. Tangie was her downfall.
***** SPOILER ALERT! *****
Once I sat down to read, I couldn't stop until I finished the book. I can't wait for the sequel to find out what happens. Part of me hopes that Tay isn't really dead, that maybe it's one of the body guards or Carmello. I want to know whose baby Tangie is carrying. I'm a little surprised that with her mindset of sex as a tool, she wouldn't make sure the men wrap it up or that she wasn't on some type of birth control.
While the story is entertaining, I'm a little disappointed that she didn't get any punishment for her actions. Yes, she lost Amira, but that loss doesn't seem to have changed her. It's as if she cried it out and now she's moved on with her life. She uses and abuses people and it doesn't seem to affect her at all. Her character remains consistent in her "all about me" attitude. She doesnt' seem to grow from that. Maybe in the sequel she will.
I applaud the author for a well-written story. She is certainly a wonderful storyteller. This was my first time reading her work and I look forward to reading more. I give this book 4 out of 5 stars.
A copy of this book was provided by the author for review. I received no compensation.
May 5, 2012
Sleeping With The Enemy
This is my first read by Ms. Joseph and I will take a chance on her again. I was not crazy about this book. There were too many stereotypical characters and plots all jammed into the book to give the reader shock value. This did not work well for me. The book dragged as I had to read through sex act after sex act. With the amount of sex it has, this book should be classified as porn, I think it even surpasses the term "Erotica"
The usual suspects are here:
The Gold-digger - Tangie typical money hungry chick with money etched on the brain.
The Hood-Rat - Shamika the one you can take out the hood but can't take the hood out of her.
The Rich star - Tay'von "Too Fine" Miller super fine and super rich lives by the notion it's not tricking if you have it.
The Up and coming rapper Black Dialect has a head on his shoulders but is trying to stay on top after a costly mistake
Supporting characters
Carl Tay'von bodyguard sexy and know his place that is until he mixes it up with Tangie
Tony Tay'von bodyguard sexy and not falling for Tangie web of deceit
Carmello record label owner wants to sign Tay'von. Reminds me of the record label owner Red from the movie "The Five Heartbeats" wanted to know more about him.
This is not the world I live in. I just can't comprehend some of things taking place in this novel. I do know that it is someone’s world even being fiction. There were many holes in the story and some scenes didn't make sense to me even after all was revealed. There were twists but I cannot say they were unexpected. Since this was written in first person POV there were things and thoughts that Tangie shouldn't have been privy to, and this happened a lot.
Ms. Joseph clearly has talent; I think she will go far in the future. Even with the flaws, I felt the characters. I wanted to strangle most of them most of the time. Needed more background on Tangie. Wanted to here more from Connie who was mention in synopsis but never brought forth in novel. I felt as if this was written with part two already in mind, where as it felt like the reader should know certain things already but we weren't told. Will check out part two to see if she can save this for me.
SiStar Tea
ARC Book Club Inc.
2.5 star rating
May 2012
This is my first read by Ms. Joseph and I will take a chance on her again. I was not crazy about this book. There were too many stereotypical characters and plots all jammed into the book to give the reader shock value. This did not work well for me. The book dragged as I had to read through sex act after sex act. With the amount of sex it has, this book should be classified as porn, I think it even surpasses the term "Erotica"
The usual suspects are here:
The Gold-digger - Tangie typical money hungry chick with money etched on the brain.
The Hood-Rat - Shamika the one you can take out the hood but can't take the hood out of her.
The Rich star - Tay'von "Too Fine" Miller super fine and super rich lives by the notion it's not tricking if you have it.
The Up and coming rapper Black Dialect has a head on his shoulders but is trying to stay on top after a costly mistake
Supporting characters
Carl Tay'von bodyguard sexy and know his place that is until he mixes it up with Tangie
Tony Tay'von bodyguard sexy and not falling for Tangie web of deceit
Carmello record label owner wants to sign Tay'von. Reminds me of the record label owner Red from the movie "The Five Heartbeats" wanted to know more about him.
This is not the world I live in. I just can't comprehend some of things taking place in this novel. I do know that it is someone’s world even being fiction. There were many holes in the story and some scenes didn't make sense to me even after all was revealed. There were twists but I cannot say they were unexpected. Since this was written in first person POV there were things and thoughts that Tangie shouldn't have been privy to, and this happened a lot.
Ms. Joseph clearly has talent; I think she will go far in the future. Even with the flaws, I felt the characters. I wanted to strangle most of them most of the time. Needed more background on Tangie. Wanted to here more from Connie who was mention in synopsis but never brought forth in novel. I felt as if this was written with part two already in mind, where as it felt like the reader should know certain things already but we weren't told. Will check out part two to see if she can save this for me.
SiStar Tea
ARC Book Club Inc.
2.5 star rating
May 2012
May 4, 2012
Vixen!!
The world of music videos is one of fame, sex, money, and glamour. Tangie is the latest video vixen who is sexy, alluring, and very good at what she does. What people don’t know is that Tangie as we know her is a work-in- progress. She does not aspire to be just another “flavor of the month“. Oh no! Ms. Tangie is hard core and will do whatever it takes to make what she wants a reality. Know how to play the game or get out of her way! As for love? Well, that has not even been factored into Tangie’s plans. But sometimes what we dream, plan, and hope for does not always come to us the way we had planned.
Step to the forefront Mr. Tay’von Miller, dubbed by his adoring fans as Mr. Too-Fine. Tay’von is the latest rap star to take the industry by storm. After being cast in the lead role in Tay’von’s video, Tangie and Tay’von become a hot couple. But both have secrets and selfish reasons why they should be a couple…and love has nothing to do with it!
The art of deceit takes perfecting, and Tangie uses everyone and everything to perfect her craft!
I enjoyed reading about Tangie, although I had no love for her! She’s greedy, selfish, and a nymphomaniac. Her desire for sex is unquenchable and is showcased in many scenes in the book. Sex was needed to portray the story and characters, although I think some of the scenes involving sex could have been written with more left to the reader’s imagination. Ms. Joseph did a fine job with the character development.
This story is written in first person, but the clarity and “point of view” aspects were confusing at times. The final chapter was like “wow" but yet I had to read it over, as well as have an intense discussion with members in my book club (this was a group read) to try and put a few things into perspective. I also was a bit perplexed on how Shamika thought what Carmello asked her to do could further ANYONE’S career!
Scandal, lies, deceit, and sex make this an entertaining read, and an interesting colorful cast of characters kept me intrigued.
Locksie May 3rd 2012
ARC Book Club Inc.
Star Rating 3.5
The world of music videos is one of fame, sex, money, and glamour. Tangie is the latest video vixen who is sexy, alluring, and very good at what she does. What people don’t know is that Tangie as we know her is a work-in- progress. She does not aspire to be just another “flavor of the month“. Oh no! Ms. Tangie is hard core and will do whatever it takes to make what she wants a reality. Know how to play the game or get out of her way! As for love? Well, that has not even been factored into Tangie’s plans. But sometimes what we dream, plan, and hope for does not always come to us the way we had planned.
Step to the forefront Mr. Tay’von Miller, dubbed by his adoring fans as Mr. Too-Fine. Tay’von is the latest rap star to take the industry by storm. After being cast in the lead role in Tay’von’s video, Tangie and Tay’von become a hot couple. But both have secrets and selfish reasons why they should be a couple…and love has nothing to do with it!
The art of deceit takes perfecting, and Tangie uses everyone and everything to perfect her craft!
I enjoyed reading about Tangie, although I had no love for her! She’s greedy, selfish, and a nymphomaniac. Her desire for sex is unquenchable and is showcased in many scenes in the book. Sex was needed to portray the story and characters, although I think some of the scenes involving sex could have been written with more left to the reader’s imagination. Ms. Joseph did a fine job with the character development.
This story is written in first person, but the clarity and “point of view” aspects were confusing at times. The final chapter was like “wow" but yet I had to read it over, as well as have an intense discussion with members in my book club (this was a group read) to try and put a few things into perspective. I also was a bit perplexed on how Shamika thought what Carmello asked her to do could further ANYONE’S career!
Scandal, lies, deceit, and sex make this an entertaining read, and an interesting colorful cast of characters kept me intrigued.
Locksie May 3rd 2012
ARC Book Club Inc.
Star Rating 3.5
December 23, 2011
Fabiola Joseph brings to readers urban street literature and erotica in perfect harmony. Her work demands the attention of the reader from the very first word, refusing to let your mind rest until you have read it in completion. Once done you will be left in awe of Joseph as a writer with a wonderfully creative mind.
Although Joseph struggles slightly with shifts in POV and tense, the depth in her skill developing the story's characters, plot, climax and amazing finale will assure you have an enjoyable read.
Joseph has taken a clean canvas and filled it vividly with color as she explores the sexuality of both man and woman. She walks you through the struggles they face as they try to identify who they are and more importantly who they love. Joseph will not rest until she has you emotionally involved with one or many of the characters she created. Whether it be Tangie, Tayvon, Amira or Black, you can not walk away without rooting for someone.
You would do yourself an injustice not to take the trip with Tangie and Tayvon as they discover the true Art of Deceit!
Although Joseph struggles slightly with shifts in POV and tense, the depth in her skill developing the story's characters, plot, climax and amazing finale will assure you have an enjoyable read.
Joseph has taken a clean canvas and filled it vividly with color as she explores the sexuality of both man and woman. She walks you through the struggles they face as they try to identify who they are and more importantly who they love. Joseph will not rest until she has you emotionally involved with one or many of the characters she created. Whether it be Tangie, Tayvon, Amira or Black, you can not walk away without rooting for someone.
You would do yourself an injustice not to take the trip with Tangie and Tayvon as they discover the true Art of Deceit!
January 5, 2012
This is the first books by Fabiola that I have read. Initially, I decided to read it in order to enter a contest that she had going. Outside of that I would not have chosen this novel after glancing at the cover. Whether by my own free will to read or a little boost from a contest I am glad that I did read it. I enjoyed the drama and the "art of deceit" involved in the story. Tangie is one h*^l of a firecracker. She schemed her way into Tay'Von's world and goes from video vixen to Rap star wife! Even when I started to think she would actually be a normal wife and love Tay for the man that he is and not his money, she popped out with yet another scheme. There was definitely a lot of sex, too much if you ask me. This story did allow me to imagine what life is like in the world of rap stars and video vixens. There were some errors but nothing that took away from the story. I would definitely read another novel by Fabiola and recommend this one to others. What I took from this story is, "be careful who you befriend, everyone is NOT to be trusted"
December 12, 2011
[[ASIN:B005MGOY6S The Art Of Deceit]]What can I say this book had me from the first page.....The author penned a great piece of "Art"!!!!!!!! This is a page turner. Tangie is the definition of deseitful,she is a woman you bet not turn your back on or you will get bit. If you have not read this book you are missing out on a true page turner, I could not put it down until it was finished. I can't wait for part 2, to see what kind of ride Fabiola takes us next!!!!! 5 Star read only because that's the highest I can give it.
The Art of Deceit
The Art of Deceit
February 14, 2012
Every so often, I'll run across a debut so well written that I can barely believe it is the author's first. Such is the case with " The Art of Deceit" by Fabiola Joseph.This story is the ultimate tale of sex, betrayal,lies....DECEIT. Tangie is the character that you will absolutely love to hate! Everything she does is so well calculated and her world revolves around money. With a heart as black as coal and a nonexistent conscience, she spins a web so treacherous that those she preys on, don't even see it coming. Five stars!!! Can't wait for part 2!
~Black Faithful Sisters and Brothers Book Club~
~Black Faithful Sisters and Brothers Book Club~
February 20, 2012
Tangie, Tangie, Tangie was surley a wild one. She wanted what she wanted when she wanted it and clearly dont get in her way or she was going to come after you! This book takes you on a adventure with Tangie and the lies, sex, drama she brings to the tale. This author really but her all into this book and i enjoyed it so much, i started it yesterday and finished it today. The art of deceit is really something Tangie really knew how to make these men and woman puddy in her hands. Enjoyed the book cant wait for part two and to see what else this author has in store for us. Great job!!
May 5, 2012
Straight FIYAH!! "Masterpiece of Deception" would be an understatement!!! This book was full and i do mean full of DRAMA AND DECEIT!! It was definitely a page turner!!! Drama from page one til the end!! Fabiola Joseph u did yo thang with this one!!! I dont know what took so long to read it but you are most definitely added to my favorites!!! Lesson learned!! Never put your trust in NO ONE!! Tangie was a HOT MESS!!!
July 24, 2012
I think that Fabiola did her thing in this book. Tangie was dirty, grimy, low down and scheming. Everything that she touched turned to ish...She wanted things her way and it didn't matter how she got it!! Someone mentioned in their review that the author did not explain Tangie's background or motive. This is true, but I actually like the mystery of not knowing her background because it keeps us reading and wondering why she acted out the way she did.
January 2, 2012
Wow Fabiola Joseph you done your thing with this book. The Art of Deceit was really a page turner. Tangie was a trip she just knew what she wanted and went after it however she could. she didn't let nothing stop her it was by all means necessary. Once you start reading this book you are not gonna want to close it until you finish
November 13, 2012
I do not know why it took me so long to read this book, but after I did, I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN! Tangie is definitely the girl you love to hate (or hate to love!) and she manipulated just about everyone in the novel. This was a well written novel, that made me mad because it ended. I am waiting, not so patiently, for the sequel!
November 2, 2012
The Art of deceit was a great read that tangie was something else. Ms Fabiola did a great Job keeping me entertained it held my attention through the whole book. The ending WOW!! Can't wait for part 2. A must read 5 star book!!!
January 4, 2012
Wow!!This book was full of drama and crazy situations I cant wait for part2
January 13, 2012
Let the deceitful drama begin.....
February 10, 2018
The perfect title!
OK, so I went and re-read this book because I forgot some things that I thought was important to me.
First of all... Tangie = Scandalous AF!
Me and the author went back & forth because of the reasons I couldn't stand this heffa. Now this title fits this book 100% because I have never seen the level of Deceit that Tangie displayed. This is probably one of the hardest reviews for me to write because Tangie ways has me totally speechless. The day before her wedding sealed the deal with my hate for her. Like what in the hell did she go through in her past life that made so heartless? If it ain't about a dollar she literally gave zero fucks about anyone and anything. I mean she showed signs that she could be capable of love, but damn with her actions, I'm still not sure about that. I liked Tay, IDC, IDC. Another discussion beef between me and the author 😂. I think she's being biased liking Tangie over Tay *rolls eyes*. Yeah they both started the relationship for each of their own selfish reasons but Tay did not come off to me no where near conniving as Tangie. Ain't a soul walking on this earth got a heartless soul like this girl!
I loved this quote in the book
"Before you sit down to play a game, you must not only know the rules to the game but you must also know all of your opponents..." Tangie
#CheckmateBihh
4.5*
OK, so I went and re-read this book because I forgot some things that I thought was important to me.
First of all... Tangie = Scandalous AF!
Me and the author went back & forth because of the reasons I couldn't stand this heffa. Now this title fits this book 100% because I have never seen the level of Deceit that Tangie displayed. This is probably one of the hardest reviews for me to write because Tangie ways has me totally speechless. The day before her wedding sealed the deal with my hate for her. Like what in the hell did she go through in her past life that made so heartless? If it ain't about a dollar she literally gave zero fucks about anyone and anything. I mean she showed signs that she could be capable of love, but damn with her actions, I'm still not sure about that. I liked Tay, IDC, IDC. Another discussion beef between me and the author 😂. I think she's being biased liking Tangie over Tay *rolls eyes*. Yeah they both started the relationship for each of their own selfish reasons but Tay did not come off to me no where near conniving as Tangie. Ain't a soul walking on this earth got a heartless soul like this girl!
I loved this quote in the book
"Before you sit down to play a game, you must not only know the rules to the game but you must also know all of your opponents..." Tangie
#CheckmateBihh
4.5*
May 20, 2017
Tangie...
How could one woman's heart be so cold? As much as I enjoyed her story it made me very sad that life made her so cold and caluclating. She intrigued me, and scared me at the same time. Alright Ms. Joseph, you got me hooked, looking forward to discovering more of your work. I love your gift of storytelling.
How could one woman's heart be so cold? As much as I enjoyed her story it made me very sad that life made her so cold and caluclating. She intrigued me, and scared me at the same time. Alright Ms. Joseph, you got me hooked, looking forward to discovering more of your work. I love your gift of storytelling.
June 9, 2015
Excellent Read
Wow!! Where do I start. Tangie is one something or other, son of a what in the lol. Talk about somebody with no heart. This book keep me in awe from the first chapter. It's sad that Tangie isn't the only one who walks around with a cold heart. Honestly, I kept hoping that she would get caught up. This is a story that has you yelling at your Kindle as if it did something wrong with you. Plenty of action, undercover scheming and tantalizing sexiness!! Fabulous Joseph this book was hands down the most riveting book I've read all month. I am waiting patiently for Part 2. I have to find out what happened to Tangie and Tay.
Wow!! Where do I start. Tangie is one something or other, son of a what in the lol. Talk about somebody with no heart. This book keep me in awe from the first chapter. It's sad that Tangie isn't the only one who walks around with a cold heart. Honestly, I kept hoping that she would get caught up. This is a story that has you yelling at your Kindle as if it did something wrong with you. Plenty of action, undercover scheming and tantalizing sexiness!! Fabulous Joseph this book was hands down the most riveting book I've read all month. I am waiting patiently for Part 2. I have to find out what happened to Tangie and Tay.
January 20, 2013
This book was exciting from the beginning to the end. "The Art of Deceit" is a must read and I guarantee that you will love it! Tangie was the most deceitful, scandalous, and heartless character that I have read about in a long time. She was defiantly out to get any and everything she wanted and didn't let anything or anyone get in her way. Fabiola, for this being your first book, it was phenomenal!! I look forward to reading more of your books.
October 20, 2019
Best Author ever she always leave yuo wanting more
Fabie, I'm waiting for part two. Part one has you sitting yelling an hurt. I have never fell in love with a character like i had falling in love with your characters in your stories. From Niya to AOD you are the bomb.com
Oh BTW im also waiting for Niya Pt2
Fabie, I'm waiting for part two. Part one has you sitting yelling an hurt. I have never fell in love with a character like i had falling in love with your characters in your stories. From Niya to AOD you are the bomb.com
Oh BTW im also waiting for Niya Pt2
February 3, 2014
Tangie was a piece of work. Women like her never fails to meet there faith at the end. Very well written book, have a few questions on Tay and Black though :-). I enjoy this read definite 5 stars. Very well put together plan Tangie you outsmart the smarts. :-).
February 22, 2016
Sizzling Hot
Deceit, deceit and deceit. From first page to the very end this was one wonderful story. Some breath taking scene that will have you wanting more. Fabiola Joseph has become a new favorite for me. 5 stars
Deceit, deceit and deceit. From first page to the very end this was one wonderful story. Some breath taking scene that will have you wanting more. Fabiola Joseph has become a new favorite for me. 5 stars
March 14, 2013
fast paced raw ride w/Tangie & her antics... is there really a piece of her in all of us?? well done! now waiting for pt. 2
September 30, 2012
loved it!!! Tangie is a BEAST!! I had a love/hate relationship with her!!! most def a page turner! ready for part 2!
April 23, 2013
This book was CRAZY!!! I will be reading the sequel as soon as its released! This woman was LOW DOWN AND DIRTY AND HELL...LOL!!! 3.5 stars
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