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Diamond Magnate #1
Schönheit in der Täuschung
Mein Leben wird von drei Regeln beherrscht. Lass dich nicht erwischen.
Wenn du erwischt wirst, spiele die Rolle.
Gewinne Zeit, bis die Rettung eintrifft. Mein Leben hängt davon ab, die Rolle überzeugend zu spielen. Seit meinem fünfzehnten Lebensjahr bin ich für diese Rolle ausgebildet worden. Zehn lange Jahre lang wurde mir beigebracht, jemand anderes zu sein, auf einen anderen Namen zu reagieren und im Schatten einer anderen Frau zu leben. Evie Warren ist die begehrteste Mafiaprinzessin des Landes, und ich bin ihr Ebenbild. Ich bin der Lockvogel, ihr Stuntgirl sozusagen. Wenn ich also die erste Regel breche, weiß ich, dass es schlimm ist. Ich weiß, dass es noch schlimmer wird, als der Mann, der meinen Konvoi überfallen hat, mir zwei Möglichkeiten gibt und mir sagt, dass er hofft, dass ich mich nicht für die zweite entscheide. Und als er mich Evie nennt, bestätigt er meinen schlimmsten Verdacht. Der Angriff war vorsätzlich. Es kann nur zwei Gründe geben, warum er Evie entführen will. Er will sie entweder als Lösegeld oder aus Rache, und Bell Warren, ihr Vater, hat mehr Feinde als Geld. Schönheit in der Täuschung ist der erste Roman der Diamantenmagnaten-Sammlung . Das Buch kann als eigenständiges Werk gelesen werden. Sie müssen die anderen Bücher nicht lesen, um der Geschichte folgen zu können.
Wenn du erwischt wirst, spiele die Rolle.
Gewinne Zeit, bis die Rettung eintrifft. Mein Leben hängt davon ab, die Rolle überzeugend zu spielen. Seit meinem fünfzehnten Lebensjahr bin ich für diese Rolle ausgebildet worden. Zehn lange Jahre lang wurde mir beigebracht, jemand anderes zu sein, auf einen anderen Namen zu reagieren und im Schatten einer anderen Frau zu leben. Evie Warren ist die begehrteste Mafiaprinzessin des Landes, und ich bin ihr Ebenbild. Ich bin der Lockvogel, ihr Stuntgirl sozusagen. Wenn ich also die erste Regel breche, weiß ich, dass es schlimm ist. Ich weiß, dass es noch schlimmer wird, als der Mann, der meinen Konvoi überfallen hat, mir zwei Möglichkeiten gibt und mir sagt, dass er hofft, dass ich mich nicht für die zweite entscheide. Und als er mich Evie nennt, bestätigt er meinen schlimmsten Verdacht. Der Angriff war vorsätzlich. Es kann nur zwei Gründe geben, warum er Evie entführen will. Er will sie entweder als Lösegeld oder aus Rache, und Bell Warren, ihr Vater, hat mehr Feinde als Geld. Schönheit in der Täuschung ist der erste Roman der Diamantenmagnaten-Sammlung . Das Buch kann als eigenständiges Werk gelesen werden. Sie müssen die anderen Bücher nicht lesen, um der Geschichte folgen zu können.
242 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 4, 2023
20 people are currently reading
391 people want to read
About the author
Charmaine Pauls
73 books1,842 followersCharmaine loves to write dark and edgy romance that will melt both your e-reader and your heart.
She's a mom of two teenagers, an adorable dog, and a dominant cat. Her country of birth is South Africa where many of her stories play off. Her French husband kidnapped her to the south of France where she currently lives with her family.
When she's not writing, you'll find her in the kitchen baking cakes or in the gym lifting weights (because ... all those cakes!).
She's a mom of two teenagers, an adorable dog, and a dominant cat. Her country of birth is South Africa where many of her stories play off. Her French husband kidnapped her to the south of France where she currently lives with her family.
When she's not writing, you'll find her in the kitchen baking cakes or in the gym lifting weights (because ... all those cakes!).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 152 reviews
July 19, 2023
*3.5* If you’ve ever read anything by this author, you’ll know exactly what you’re getting into by opening this book.
This story would have been better as a duo. There was not enough time to create a believable romance, and the plot felt very rushed. The ott drama and the heroes quick turnaround made zero sense. I tried to understand it, then I just gave up and enjoyed the rest of the story.
Kidnapping/captivity
Childhood trauma
Insta-lust
Anti-hero/mafia
Dark-ish
Off page rape
Emotional manipulation
1.5 intimate scenes
Satisfying ending
Not quite the quality I’m used to reading from this author, but I do enjoy her ability to suck me into a story with only a few paragraphs.
Additional thoughts:
*What happened to the rapist should be the consequence for this action in every country.
*I really dislike the greasy look of this cover model for the hero.
This story would have been better as a duo. There was not enough time to create a believable romance, and the plot felt very rushed. The ott drama and the heroes quick turnaround made zero sense. I tried to understand it, then I just gave up and enjoyed the rest of the story.
Kidnapping/captivity
Childhood trauma
Insta-lust
Anti-hero/mafia
Dark-ish
Off page rape
Emotional manipulation
1.5 intimate scenes
Satisfying ending
Not quite the quality I’m used to reading from this author, but I do enjoy her ability to suck me into a story with only a few paragraphs.
Additional thoughts:
*What happened to the rapist should be the consequence for this action in every country.
*I really dislike the greasy look of this cover model for the hero.
April 28, 2023
4.5*
Re-read 20th - 22nd April 2023
Loved it just as much the second time round.
Original review.
I really enjoyed this one and that’s surprising because I generally don’t like it when a character sits on something you know is going to come out.
But this was fabulous I loved both Roman and Christina. And the more I read the more I enjoyed it.
It was so good I read it in one go. I just couldn’t put it down and now I have to sleep.
But before I sleep you might be wondering why not 5* if I enjoyed it so much?
I’m impatient and the secret not coming out fast enough (but perfect really for the book but I’ll deny that if questioned) bugged me.
I voluntarily read a review copy kindly provided by the author.
Re-read 20th - 22nd April 2023
Loved it just as much the second time round.
Original review.
I really enjoyed this one and that’s surprising because I generally don’t like it when a character sits on something you know is going to come out.
But this was fabulous I loved both Roman and Christina. And the more I read the more I enjoyed it.
It was so good I read it in one go. I just couldn’t put it down and now I have to sleep.
But before I sleep you might be wondering why not 5* if I enjoyed it so much?
I’m impatient and the secret not coming out fast enough (but perfect really for the book but I’ll deny that if questioned) bugged me.
I voluntarily read a review copy kindly provided by the author.
March 24, 2023
Finding this beauty for free on Bookfunnel was a very pleasant surprise,knowing it’s coming to Apple Books as well,is even better!
I love the Diamond Magnate series,and those affiliated,so i quickly caught up where this one fits in the timeline.
Christina has been forced into being Evie’s double to keep her little sister Eden safe for almost 10 years now.
But it doesn’t get any easier,even after what Evie’s father Bell Warren has done to make her obey….
Now,she’s been kidnapped by the enemy,who’s looking for revenge.
Roman and his brother Matteo lost their father after Bell took everything from him.
Their mother couldn’t cope with the loss and withered away,dying not long after him.
Evie is a means to an end….at first.
But getting to know her,Roman is finding it hard to remain uncaring.
Besides,with the plans he has,it would benefit them both if they didn’t completely hate eachother….right?
Until he finds out she deceived them….
It was so hard to keep pretending to be Evie,but Christina did what she was told to do.
Knowing her little sister depended on her,she couldn’t fail.
But once she was in a position she could risk asking for a favor,she hoped Roman would get Eden to safety.
What happened to her after that,didn’t matter…..and she could only hope her death would be swift.
What díd happen,was something she couldn’t have dreamt of hoping,though.
Even though Roman was responsible for the situation she was in,she still fell for him.
And even though she deceived him,Roman knew he was responsible,knew he had to make amends….somehow.
This was a heartbreaking story,one that held me captive from the start.
A story with twists and turns,and a surprising end.
A story i loved!
I love the Diamond Magnate series,and those affiliated,so i quickly caught up where this one fits in the timeline.
Christina has been forced into being Evie’s double to keep her little sister Eden safe for almost 10 years now.
But it doesn’t get any easier,even after what Evie’s father Bell Warren has done to make her obey….
Now,she’s been kidnapped by the enemy,who’s looking for revenge.
Roman and his brother Matteo lost their father after Bell took everything from him.
Their mother couldn’t cope with the loss and withered away,dying not long after him.
Evie is a means to an end….at first.
But getting to know her,Roman is finding it hard to remain uncaring.
Besides,with the plans he has,it would benefit them both if they didn’t completely hate eachother….right?
Until he finds out she deceived them….
It was so hard to keep pretending to be Evie,but Christina did what she was told to do.
Knowing her little sister depended on her,she couldn’t fail.
But once she was in a position she could risk asking for a favor,she hoped Roman would get Eden to safety.
What happened to her after that,didn’t matter…..and she could only hope her death would be swift.
What díd happen,was something she couldn’t have dreamt of hoping,though.
Even though Roman was responsible for the situation she was in,she still fell for him.
And even though she deceived him,Roman knew he was responsible,knew he had to make amends….somehow.
This was a heartbreaking story,one that held me captive from the start.
A story with twists and turns,and a surprising end.
A story i loved!
April 28, 2023
I am so glad we got the beginning to the Diamond Magnate Collection. Turns out it's my favorite of the series. I just loved everything about it.
When you realize everything the heroine has gone through, you just want for her to find her happily ever after so badly. Despite all that she has been through, she is such a kind and compassionate person that would put her life on the line for others.
The hero is that anti-hero you can't help but love. He's got two sides to him. He has standards that make him a good person but he also can turn to violence without blinking an eye. The way he falls for the heroine, how he protects her despite his and his families anger towards the man they think is her father is what you want to see in a man meant for her.
When the truth comes out, my heart was racing and I was glued to this book. Fantastic read!
When you realize everything the heroine has gone through, you just want for her to find her happily ever after so badly. Despite all that she has been through, she is such a kind and compassionate person that would put her life on the line for others.
The hero is that anti-hero you can't help but love. He's got two sides to him. He has standards that make him a good person but he also can turn to violence without blinking an eye. The way he falls for the heroine, how he protects her despite his and his families anger towards the man they think is her father is what you want to see in a man meant for her.
When the truth comes out, my heart was racing and I was glued to this book. Fantastic read!
April 13, 2023
This book blew me away! From the first pages I was pulled in and as the story unfolded I was totally captivated. I couldn’t put it down. It’s filled with a dark intensity and sizzling heat as well as twists and turns that I never saw coming. Seriously, mind blown. And oh my gawd, the heart ache! I was in tears at the pain of this couple’s situation.
Christina is a heroine with a background unlike any I’ve read before which added to the mystique and drama of the story. Roman was fierce and determined. He straddled the line between a strong alpha hero and dark anti hero. It forced me to the edge of my comfort zone a time or two but never completely out of it. That actually heightened my enjoyment as I experienced so many emotions from beginning to end.
This is a fast read due to the compelling story and my resistance to set it aside. I hated for it to end but I LOVED the ending. I highly recommend this if you enjoy romance a shade darker than the norm.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
Steam
Christina is a heroine with a background unlike any I’ve read before which added to the mystique and drama of the story. Roman was fierce and determined. He straddled the line between a strong alpha hero and dark anti hero. It forced me to the edge of my comfort zone a time or two but never completely out of it. That actually heightened my enjoyment as I experienced so many emotions from beginning to end.
This is a fast read due to the compelling story and my resistance to set it aside. I hated for it to end but I LOVED the ending. I highly recommend this if you enjoy romance a shade darker than the norm.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
Steam
March 25, 2022
Practically indentured to the criminal Bell family and with her younger sister being used as collateral for her good behaviour Christina does the job she’s been trained for acting as a decoy and doppelgänger for the Bell daughter Evie. Finding herself kidnapped by Roman Malan a male with a valid axe to grind against her employer Christina does the only thing she can play along till she’s rescued.
But as time elapses she realises there is more going on here than she was aware she’s also fighting an unhealthy attraction towards her captor one that he doesn’t seem to discourage. But what will happen when Roman discovers the truth about her Christina is scared to find out. Trapped between two powerful ruthless men as the unwitting pawn she might just become collateral damage.
This was an easy read this author always delivers. This had darkness and intrigue but I felt the balance was right. There were some sexy times and I did believe in the connection forming. I would have maybe liked a bit of a grovel from Roman for his actions that nearly ended in tragedy for Christina but overall I did enjoy this and it was a good read that I would definitely recommend. I voluntary reviewed a copy of Beauty In Deception.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
March 4, 2022
This is labelled as a "DARK" romance. But I don't know what the definition of dark is anymore; going by these latest releases. If dark romance is a H kidnapping h for revenge, then treating her like a princess cuz she's valuable; then, yes it is a dark read.
Or maybe my soul has rotten after consuming so many books.
Anyway, I was not convinced that they both actually liked each other.
But it was short and free. That's always a win-win.
Or maybe my soul has rotten after consuming so many books.
Anyway, I was not convinced that they both actually liked each other.
But it was short and free. That's always a win-win.
April 30, 2023
It's Sordid it's Twisted but it's soooo Alluring. Chramine proves yet again that warped tales of Greed & Avarice are her forte. There's too dark an underbelly to fortune and Riches. ruthless men roll fates of humans like dice in their heinous games of power.
Bell Warren is the worst of them all. Sadistic abuser has Christina trapped in his tight fist. She is thrown to the wolves to fulfill his convulated scheme of mafiadom empowerment.
"Like a plastic ballerina in a jewelry box, I’m trapped in this horrible circle of life."
Roman is more than just meets the eye. His road to revenge is paved with same shared fates of humans that Bell protects or discards.
When prey becomes predator, road to salvation clears for both Roman & Christina.
"This game is dangerous, much more dangerous than the one I’m playing. I’m acting for my life. He’s gambling with my feelings."
I cannot sing enough praises for this Tangled web of deceit & Betrayal penned into a book by Charmaine.
Absolutely frigging marvelous!!!
5 60 carat stars from Cullinan
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Bell Warren is the worst of them all. Sadistic abuser has Christina trapped in his tight fist. She is thrown to the wolves to fulfill his convulated scheme of mafiadom empowerment.
"Like a plastic ballerina in a jewelry box, I’m trapped in this horrible circle of life."
Roman is more than just meets the eye. His road to revenge is paved with same shared fates of humans that Bell protects or discards.
When prey becomes predator, road to salvation clears for both Roman & Christina.
"This game is dangerous, much more dangerous than the one I’m playing. I’m acting for my life. He’s gambling with my feelings."
I cannot sing enough praises for this Tangled web of deceit & Betrayal penned into a book by Charmaine.
Absolutely frigging marvelous!!!
5 60 carat stars from Cullinan
Follow me on:
Email🌻 Bookbub 🌻 Twitter🌻 Instagram🌻 Blog🌻 Facebook🌻 Amazon 🌻
June 23, 2022
It hurts to give a Charmaine Pauls book 2 stars. I have never done this before, and I hope it's my last time. I really thought I'd enjoy this more. The book was well-written, it wasn't boring, it just lacked that extra spark that makes me enjoy books. I really thought I was going to give this 3 stars, but my thought when I finished it, was just it was okay, so the rating reflects that.
My main problem with the book was that the characters lacked a deeper connection besides superficial lust that probably (hopefully) would have been there had the book had more pages. I think the story was only 150 pages. There wasn't much (or enough) romance for me. In the epilogue, why did he wait 6 months to reclaim her as his wife??! WTF. No reason was given for that delay, and he knew where she was the whole time.
However, I did like the plot setup and the idea of Christina being a decoy for Evie Warren, the daughter of an extremely wealthy, powerful man. The whole decoy thing reminded me of how Padme Amidala from Star Wars had a decoy, which really confused me as a kid.
This book ties into the others in the Diamond Magnate series with a connection to Damian.
However, I don't remember Warren from "Beauty in the Broken" and why Damian would have wanted his dick to be intact. I wish the latter part of his dick was explained here.
TW: rape & abuse in the past, violence, slight dubious consent
My main problem with the book was that the characters lacked a deeper connection besides superficial lust that probably (hopefully) would have been there had the book had more pages. I think the story was only 150 pages. There wasn't much (or enough) romance for me. In the epilogue, why did he wait 6 months to reclaim her as his wife??! WTF. No reason was given for that delay, and he knew where she was the whole time.
However, I did like the plot setup and the idea of Christina being a decoy for Evie Warren, the daughter of an extremely wealthy, powerful man. The whole decoy thing reminded me of how Padme Amidala from Star Wars had a decoy, which really confused me as a kid.
This book ties into the others in the Diamond Magnate series with a connection to Damian.
However, I don't remember Warren from "Beauty in the Broken" and why Damian would have wanted his dick to be intact. I wish the latter part of his dick was explained here.
TW: rape & abuse in the past, violence, slight dubious consent
March 4, 2022
Clever and engrossing! Absolutely loved it!
Wow! I loved this book. There was so much in it to appreciate. Tense situations, angst, danger, injustice, lust, good people who do bad things, villains who are clever and despicable, a well thought out plot line- this book had it all! Beauty in Deception is a standalone novel (no cliffhanger) and it’s a prequel to the dark and twisty Diamond Magnate series.
I don’t want to spoil anything- but this story starts off interesting and just gets better from there. We have a heroine in an unusual and impossible predicament and a dark horse of a hero with revenge in his blood and an inconvenient decency when it comes to the girl he wishes to hate.
The writing is brilliant and the dual point of view is captivating. I absolutely love Charmaine Pauls’ writing. I love the world building because there’s a lot of showing instead of telling. She has a way of immersing you into a world completely. And her South African roots transport readers to the crazy dangerous, high stakes world of the diamond trade. In Beauty in Deception, we are again taken back into the city of Johannesburg, where in Pauls’ writing the opulent wealth, abject poverty, and very real and present threats of danger in the city coexist.
I love the characters and I’m thrilled that this story didn’t end on a cliffy. It’s written in the clever manner of a great heist but it packs a big emotional punch. Definitely going to re-read this one. Bravo!
Wow! I loved this book. There was so much in it to appreciate. Tense situations, angst, danger, injustice, lust, good people who do bad things, villains who are clever and despicable, a well thought out plot line- this book had it all! Beauty in Deception is a standalone novel (no cliffhanger) and it’s a prequel to the dark and twisty Diamond Magnate series.
I don’t want to spoil anything- but this story starts off interesting and just gets better from there. We have a heroine in an unusual and impossible predicament and a dark horse of a hero with revenge in his blood and an inconvenient decency when it comes to the girl he wishes to hate.
The writing is brilliant and the dual point of view is captivating. I absolutely love Charmaine Pauls’ writing. I love the world building because there’s a lot of showing instead of telling. She has a way of immersing you into a world completely. And her South African roots transport readers to the crazy dangerous, high stakes world of the diamond trade. In Beauty in Deception, we are again taken back into the city of Johannesburg, where in Pauls’ writing the opulent wealth, abject poverty, and very real and present threats of danger in the city coexist.
I love the characters and I’m thrilled that this story didn’t end on a cliffy. It’s written in the clever manner of a great heist but it packs a big emotional punch. Definitely going to re-read this one. Bravo!
March 10, 2022
Charmaine Pauls goes back to her
Diamond Magnate
world with Beauty in Deception and she once again excels at the push/pull between the violent and gentle nature of her heroes and heroines. This is the "prequel" to Beauty in the Broken because it takes place before Damian Hart initiated his revenge against Harold Dalton. It can also be read as a standalone since Roman Malan and Christina have never appeared in previous books. I found this story quite fascinating because it tells the story of how a doppelgänger fell in love with her captor. Both Christina and Roman are complex characters with many layers to them. Their story was heartbreaking, intense, sexy, and emotional. It had all the characteristics that I loved most about this author's writing—multi-faceted hero and heroine, angst, betrayal, revenge, redemption, and obsession.
Sold into becoming Evie Warren's shadow at a young age, Christina has led a harsh and cruel life despite the glamorous dresses. She was merely "a pawn in the ugly games cruel men play." I loved this analogy in the book and it fit her character perfectly and how some actions have consequences. However, Christina loved her younger sister dearly and never gave up despite her misfortune. Meeting Roman freed Christina but his obsession and love also imprisoned her. As for Roman, he was both gentle and cruel. To Christina, he wielded his power and cruelty like a blade but treated her as if she was his most precious princess in the world. I found him quite fascinating and Charmaine's most grayest hero yet because he thought she was his enemy the entire time when in reality, Christina was simply a victim. Bell Warren destroyed Roman's family and stole what wasn't his. Revenge was the end goal but love had other plans.
In the end, I thoroughly enjoyed this book because Christina's journey touched my heart and I wanted her to find her own happiness in the end—whether it be with Roman or not. I loved how independent, courageous, and loving she was despite her circumstances. Roman was hard to like at first but he grew on me. He won't ever be an Ian Hart but he did remind me of a mix between Damian and Maxime. Cruel, prone to anger and irrationality, and obsessed with his heroine. I'm curious to know if Charmaine Pauls will be writing individual books for Mateo, Roman's younger brother, and Eden, Christina's younger sister. Future books to look forward to! Fans of Charmaine Pauls and the Diamond Magnate world will absolutely love this book and devour it in one sitting because I certainly did. I highly recommend this book to those who love the revenge and captive romance trope with a hero and heroine who were simply destined to meet each other.
*This ARC was generously provided by the author and publisher for an honest review*
"In this moment, isolated in our brokenness, we're perfectly aligned."
Sold into becoming Evie Warren's shadow at a young age, Christina has led a harsh and cruel life despite the glamorous dresses. She was merely "a pawn in the ugly games cruel men play." I loved this analogy in the book and it fit her character perfectly and how some actions have consequences. However, Christina loved her younger sister dearly and never gave up despite her misfortune. Meeting Roman freed Christina but his obsession and love also imprisoned her. As for Roman, he was both gentle and cruel. To Christina, he wielded his power and cruelty like a blade but treated her as if she was his most precious princess in the world. I found him quite fascinating and Charmaine's most grayest hero yet because he thought she was his enemy the entire time when in reality, Christina was simply a victim. Bell Warren destroyed Roman's family and stole what wasn't his. Revenge was the end goal but love had other plans.
"With him, I can't be someone else. I can't be anyone other than me. I don't want to be."
In the end, I thoroughly enjoyed this book because Christina's journey touched my heart and I wanted her to find her own happiness in the end—whether it be with Roman or not. I loved how independent, courageous, and loving she was despite her circumstances. Roman was hard to like at first but he grew on me. He won't ever be an Ian Hart but he did remind me of a mix between Damian and Maxime. Cruel, prone to anger and irrationality, and obsessed with his heroine. I'm curious to know if Charmaine Pauls will be writing individual books for Mateo, Roman's younger brother, and Eden, Christina's younger sister. Future books to look forward to! Fans of Charmaine Pauls and the Diamond Magnate world will absolutely love this book and devour it in one sitting because I certainly did. I highly recommend this book to those who love the revenge and captive romance trope with a hero and heroine who were simply destined to meet each other.
*This ARC was generously provided by the author and publisher for an honest review*
March 6, 2022
Christina has one job. A very important one. She's the doppelgänger for Evie Warren, daughter of Bell Warren, one of South Africa's richest, and most ruthless, diamond magnates. The man has a lot of money and even more enemies, so Christina is part of an elaborate decoy system that he has set in place to keep Evie safe. The system seems to work, only too well. When Christina is kidnapped by Bell Warren's worst enemy, Roman Malan, she learns that years of training never prepared her for what is yet to come ...
In a word, this is Astounding! Those of you who know me, know that I adore this author. I've read everything she's written. But this, indeed, kicked my amazement and adoration up another notch. Christina is a truly tragic Charmaine Pauls heroine. Having failed to evade capture as instructed, she now faces Bell Warren's wrath and punishment, Roman Malan's fury when he discovers the deception, and most painfully, the knowledge that she has let down her little sister Eden, for whom she has sacrificed all in making her devil's bargain with Warren. My heart bled for Christina. I felt the weight of all she had to bear, backed into a corner, with no good options, tortured to the point of annihilation. This is what Charmaine does so well, my Queen of Tortured Romantic Heroines! Christina joins the ranks of Valentina, Jane, Lina, Zoe, and Cas in shouldering more pain and burden than we can possibly imagine ourselves and still remaining good and noble.
This is a beautiful but very, very dark love story. There are triggers. It's faithful to the blending of light and dark and poetry that I have come to expect from this author. When I read this, I feel as though my heart has fully experienced its maximal emotional range.
This is a standalone, but its events pre-date all the the previously published Diamond Magnate novels: Beauty in the Broken, Diamonds are Forever Trilogy and Beauty in the Stolen Trilogy. It's fabulous as either an entry point into the world of Charmaine Pauls or a praiseworthy addition for established fans of the Diamond Magnate saga.
(This review is based on a beta copy of Beauty in Deception.)
In a word, this is Astounding! Those of you who know me, know that I adore this author. I've read everything she's written. But this, indeed, kicked my amazement and adoration up another notch. Christina is a truly tragic Charmaine Pauls heroine. Having failed to evade capture as instructed, she now faces Bell Warren's wrath and punishment, Roman Malan's fury when he discovers the deception, and most painfully, the knowledge that she has let down her little sister Eden, for whom she has sacrificed all in making her devil's bargain with Warren. My heart bled for Christina. I felt the weight of all she had to bear, backed into a corner, with no good options, tortured to the point of annihilation. This is what Charmaine does so well, my Queen of Tortured Romantic Heroines! Christina joins the ranks of Valentina, Jane, Lina, Zoe, and Cas in shouldering more pain and burden than we can possibly imagine ourselves and still remaining good and noble.
This is a beautiful but very, very dark love story. There are triggers. It's faithful to the blending of light and dark and poetry that I have come to expect from this author. When I read this, I feel as though my heart has fully experienced its maximal emotional range.
This is a standalone, but its events pre-date all the the previously published Diamond Magnate novels: Beauty in the Broken, Diamonds are Forever Trilogy and Beauty in the Stolen Trilogy. It's fabulous as either an entry point into the world of Charmaine Pauls or a praiseworthy addition for established fans of the Diamond Magnate saga.
(This review is based on a beta copy of Beauty in Deception.)
March 1, 2022
It was a nice read.
There's something about this author's writing which works too well for me. Her characters also come off as exactly she wanted. H are alpha through and through and h are soft but strong altogether.
But some of her plot points are always something that ends up getting on my nerves.
Because I am one of those who can't stand when there's a secret to be revealed and it's taking forever, my reading experience suffered
Also, maybe because it was a freebie thats why or maybe not, the ending was too abrupt.
I think I am more addicted to her trilogies. I so wanted to read more of Roman and Christina.
Overall nice read and a freebie. How can I ever complain. Thanks author. ^_^
There's something about this author's writing which works too well for me. Her characters also come off as exactly she wanted. H are alpha through and through and h are soft but strong altogether.
But some of her plot points are always something that ends up getting on my nerves.
Because I am one of those who can't stand when there's a secret to be revealed and it's taking forever, my reading experience suffered
Also, maybe because it was a freebie thats why or maybe not, the ending was too abrupt.
I think I am more addicted to her trilogies. I so wanted to read more of Roman and Christina.
Overall nice read and a freebie. How can I ever complain. Thanks author. ^_^
April 17, 2023
From a very young age, Christina was created into a doppelgänger of a mafia princess to use as a decoy in case enemies lurk.
Roman Malan is the enemy. His family was destroyed and a diamond was stolen. He’s come to collect. But needs this mafia princess as leverage.
This is the story of Roman unknowingly kidnapping the wrong girl. Trying to bring justice to his family. And seeking revenge.
But this is a romance. And a second chance romance.
This short novella packed a punch! You get the quick history of both main characters. The suffering they went through and everything comes full circle with an HEA.
I loved it so much! I actually enjoyed this entire world!
Roman Malan is the enemy. His family was destroyed and a diamond was stolen. He’s come to collect. But needs this mafia princess as leverage.
This is the story of Roman unknowingly kidnapping the wrong girl. Trying to bring justice to his family. And seeking revenge.
But this is a romance. And a second chance romance.
This short novella packed a punch! You get the quick history of both main characters. The suffering they went through and everything comes full circle with an HEA.
I loved it so much! I actually enjoyed this entire world!
April 11, 2024
Cristina B - per RFS
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La bellezza nell’inganno è il nuovo dark romance autoconclusivo firmato Charmaine Pauls; fa parte della serie Il magnate dei diamanti, ma non è necessario leggere gli altri libri per seguire la storia e, nonostante un inizio un po’ lento, conquista senza lasciare scampo.
La protagonista è Christina, una giovane ragazza venduta dalla sua famiglia al magnate dei diamanti Bell Warren per diventare la sosia di sua figlia Evie. Da anni Christina vive secondo le regole che le sono state imposte ed è consapevole dei rischi che comporta il suo ruolo. Ma una cosa è conoscere la teoria, ben diverso è viverlo sulla pelle.
La sera del fidanzamento ufficiale di Evie con il figlio di un partner in affari del signor Warren, l’auto in cui viaggia la ragazza viene assalita dai fratelli Malan, che la rapiscono convinti che si tratti dell’unica figlia del loro acerrimo nemico.
La sete di vendetta scorre forte in loro, in particolare nel capofamiglia Roman, il quale ha come unico obiettivo di vita quello di far scontare a Warren le sofferenze che ha inflitto alla famiglia Malan ingannando senza il minimo scrupolo il loro defunto padre.
Tra adrenalina, torture e scene mozzafiato, la vendetta tanto radicata nel protagonista maschile viene pian piano indebolita dall’attrazione crescente che si sviluppa tra Roman e Christina, al punto che lei non sa più fino a quando potrà portare avanti la sua recita.
La trama è complessa, ma lo stile è scorrevole e coinvolgente, e con i colpi di scena sempre dietro l’angolo, l’autrice mantiene alta l’attenzione del lettore che si trova a vivere un turbinio di emozioni contrastanti in un lento crescendo.
Entrambi i protagonisti hanno vissuto un passato difficile e ne portano ancora il peso, ma le dinamiche tra loro si sviluppano inesorabili e, nonostante la consapevolezza di essere nemici, non possono evitare la nascita e l’evolversi di un sentimento forte e importante che metterà entrambi davanti a una scelta ineluttabile.
.
La bellezza nell’inganno è il nuovo dark romance autoconclusivo firmato Charmaine Pauls; fa parte della serie Il magnate dei diamanti, ma non è necessario leggere gli altri libri per seguire la storia e, nonostante un inizio un po’ lento, conquista senza lasciare scampo.
La protagonista è Christina, una giovane ragazza venduta dalla sua famiglia al magnate dei diamanti Bell Warren per diventare la sosia di sua figlia Evie. Da anni Christina vive secondo le regole che le sono state imposte ed è consapevole dei rischi che comporta il suo ruolo. Ma una cosa è conoscere la teoria, ben diverso è viverlo sulla pelle.
La sera del fidanzamento ufficiale di Evie con il figlio di un partner in affari del signor Warren, l’auto in cui viaggia la ragazza viene assalita dai fratelli Malan, che la rapiscono convinti che si tratti dell’unica figlia del loro acerrimo nemico.
La sete di vendetta scorre forte in loro, in particolare nel capofamiglia Roman, il quale ha come unico obiettivo di vita quello di far scontare a Warren le sofferenze che ha inflitto alla famiglia Malan ingannando senza il minimo scrupolo il loro defunto padre.
Tra adrenalina, torture e scene mozzafiato, la vendetta tanto radicata nel protagonista maschile viene pian piano indebolita dall’attrazione crescente che si sviluppa tra Roman e Christina, al punto che lei non sa più fino a quando potrà portare avanti la sua recita.
La trama è complessa, ma lo stile è scorrevole e coinvolgente, e con i colpi di scena sempre dietro l’angolo, l’autrice mantiene alta l’attenzione del lettore che si trova a vivere un turbinio di emozioni contrastanti in un lento crescendo.
Entrambi i protagonisti hanno vissuto un passato difficile e ne portano ancora il peso, ma le dinamiche tra loro si sviluppano inesorabili e, nonostante la consapevolezza di essere nemici, non possono evitare la nascita e l’evolversi di un sentimento forte e importante che metterà entrambi davanti a una scelta ineluttabile.
March 4, 2022
This book was decadently good! The pacing here is faster than most of this author's offerings, but it delivers all the intensity, thrills, emotion, drama, heat, wicked sharp twists and hard-edged darkness that I crave and adore. The characters and relationships are complex, and they successfully give your heart quite the workout. As someone that is completely consumed and addicted to the Diamond Magnate Collection series, this book was a surprise treat but if you are a newbie this book is the perfect jumping-in point, as it works beautifully as a segue right into the series, however it also works just as well as a rock-solid standalone read. So, no matter your reader status, I highly recommend this book.
March 8, 2022
Absolutely loved this story of Roman and Christina!!
The beginning of this relationship began under deceit and coercion, followed by a glitch that was so unexpected and sad.
Christina repeatedly reminds herself of the rules
Don’t get caught.
If caught, play the role.
Win time.
She struggles immensely to not reveal the truth, she wants to shatter the image and role she is playing, but there are other obstacles in the way.
Charmaine Pauls writes beautiful stories where the women try to navigate and survive in a male dominated world while still remaining true to who they are.
The beginning of this relationship began under deceit and coercion, followed by a glitch that was so unexpected and sad.
Christina repeatedly reminds herself of the rules
Don’t get caught.
If caught, play the role.
Win time.
She struggles immensely to not reveal the truth, she wants to shatter the image and role she is playing, but there are other obstacles in the way.
Charmaine Pauls writes beautiful stories where the women try to navigate and survive in a male dominated world while still remaining true to who they are.
May 25, 2022
Loved this novella!
March 6, 2022
Charmaine does it again what a fantastic read.
Roman has a vendetta against Warren and his plan is set he kidnaps the daughter Evie or so he thought it was evie..there is beauty in deception and it all comes out but is it to late for revenge? You'll have to read to see what happens. I highly recommend this book. I received this ARC in exchange for my honest review
Roman has a vendetta against Warren and his plan is set he kidnaps the daughter Evie or so he thought it was evie..there is beauty in deception and it all comes out but is it to late for revenge? You'll have to read to see what happens. I highly recommend this book. I received this ARC in exchange for my honest review
March 3, 2022
A much shorter story than what I usually read by Charmaine. The ending was a little abrupt I felt, probably due to the shortness. Beauty in Deception is still a very good read and I am glad I read it.
April 28, 2023
I think the book is good. It feels like one of the tamer of Charmaine's books (IMO). For me the burn and the development of the story felt drawn out. There was a good connection between our main characters in a believable way i will say. I knew this was part of the Diamond Magnate series but it feels more like a prequel? I think it can also be a standalone or even crossover. The book is good.. i would reccomend binging the series together to see the overarching story play out.
June 9, 2025
Actually from the beginning I liked the book but the last few chapters changed my rating. So.. No.
⚠️for my safety besties⚠️:
-First of all it’s a Dark and Captive romance so check the triggers.
⚠️Rape, abuse in the past and v!olence⚠️
-Novella
-No cheating
-Doppelgängers (fmc)
-Birth control tampering
-She’s not a V but has one bad experience. He’s celibate for a while.
-Slight age gap ( 33 H / ? h )
⚠️for my safety besties⚠️:
-First of all it’s a Dark and Captive romance so check the triggers.
⚠️Rape, abuse in the past and v!olence⚠️
-Novella
-No cheating
-Doppelgängers (fmc)
-Birth control tampering
-She’s not a V but has one bad experience. He’s celibate for a while.
-Slight age gap ( 33 H / ? h )
March 4, 2022
I love it!
This book only make me miss more of ms. Pauls books.
Bought for a deceitment at sixteen, Christina live her life as a lie.
Until she was taken.
Until the truth speak for them self.
Betrayed, there's only one thing she will do. Burn the world of lies so she can be free.
While Roman, consume with rage of revenge, he didn't see her. He only see the mean to an end. Only a tool for revenge.
Until she said " i do. "
Until he have her.
Until he learn of her lies.
There is one thing he will do now. Make the evil suffer to free her.
The only lacking i find in this book? The smegsi scene. I NEED MORE SMEGSİ SCENES! AS İN PLURAL!!! Lol
This book only make me miss more of ms. Pauls books.
Bought for a deceitment at sixteen, Christina live her life as a lie.
Until she was taken.
Until the truth speak for them self.
Betrayed, there's only one thing she will do. Burn the world of lies so she can be free.
While Roman, consume with rage of revenge, he didn't see her. He only see the mean to an end. Only a tool for revenge.
Until she said " i do. "
Until he have her.
Until he learn of her lies.
There is one thing he will do now. Make the evil suffer to free her.
The only lacking i find in this book? The smegsi scene. I NEED MORE SMEGSİ SCENES! AS İN PLURAL!!! Lol
May 22, 2023
The heroine is basically an indentured servant to a powerful family and is forced to be the body double of the daughter. She’s kidnapped by an enemy family, but has to keep the charade going to protect her sister. The heroine was very strong in an understated way, even with all the abuse she took.
h wasn’t a virgin, was raped by villain of story
h wasn’t a virgin, was raped by villain of story
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 2, 2022
Another fantastic book by the author, I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend.
March 31, 2023
Beauty in Deception is a standalone novel in the Diamond Magnate World. The story takes place before Beauty in the Broken.
I really enjoyed Roman and Evie/Christina's story! 😍 Although the end felt a little rushed. Appropriate title for the story! The cover model is not 'my' Roman though. Great addition to the other books in this collection.
My rating: 4.4 stars!
BTW: release date March 2023..... why was the ARC this early then? 😊
Diamond Magnate Collection
I really enjoyed Roman and Evie/Christina's story! 😍 Although the end felt a little rushed. Appropriate title for the story! The cover model is not 'my' Roman though. Great addition to the other books in this collection.
My rating: 4.4 stars!
BTW: release date March 2023..... why was the ARC this early then? 😊
Diamond Magnate Collection
April 11, 2023
Genre: Mafia(ish), Dark(ish) Romance
Series Type: Standalone
Book Length: Shorter Novel
POV: Alternating Dual
Setting: South Africa
Male MC: Roman Malan is the leader of a syndicate and is out for revenge against the man responsible for his family’s downfall. Roman is 33 and has brown/copper hair, a close trimmed beard, and eyes the color of dark bourbon.
Female MC: Christina Brooks is the doppelganger for the wealthy daughter of a corrupt man who ruined Roman’s life. She is 25 and has dyed blonde hair and green eyes.
Endearment: Sweetheart (sometimes)
Spice Level: Low
Frequency of Spice: Low
Angst Level: Medium
Cliffhanger: No
Epilogue: No
My Review: I really enjoyed this story; it was interesting and had a refreshing twist to the captured woman trope. Christina’s life was basically stolen from her and even though she is forced to live a lie, she is tender and brave and has a strong spirit. Roman is a hard man that learns quickly that his heart is in danger of being stolen by his beautiful captive. I loved these two together and when the lies were finally revealed it was so emotional, I wept tears for them and their pain. My only complaint is that I wish this book was longer. I wanted more time with them and to see how they grew as a couple.
Series Type: Standalone
Book Length: Shorter Novel
POV: Alternating Dual
Setting: South Africa
Male MC: Roman Malan is the leader of a syndicate and is out for revenge against the man responsible for his family’s downfall. Roman is 33 and has brown/copper hair, a close trimmed beard, and eyes the color of dark bourbon.
Female MC: Christina Brooks is the doppelganger for the wealthy daughter of a corrupt man who ruined Roman’s life. She is 25 and has dyed blonde hair and green eyes.
Endearment: Sweetheart (sometimes)
Spice Level: Low
Frequency of Spice: Low
Angst Level: Medium
Cliffhanger: No
Epilogue: No
My Review: I really enjoyed this story; it was interesting and had a refreshing twist to the captured woman trope. Christina’s life was basically stolen from her and even though she is forced to live a lie, she is tender and brave and has a strong spirit. Roman is a hard man that learns quickly that his heart is in danger of being stolen by his beautiful captive. I loved these two together and when the lies were finally revealed it was so emotional, I wept tears for them and their pain. My only complaint is that I wish this book was longer. I wanted more time with them and to see how they grew as a couple.
April 17, 2023
It’s true that beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but with Roman and Christina you have to see deep within.
Christina leads a specifically choreographed life. It’s a means to an end. But her secret and end may be coming quicker than she anticipated when she meets Roman.
Roman has sought justice for his family for many years. And while he thinks his target is someone else, he’s about to find out things are not what they seem, and neither is Christina.
Roman was not a white knight but I did appreciate his loyalty and his softer side with Christina. And our heroine was such a strong force.
Great addition to the Diamond Magnate Series.
Merged review:
Things are not always what they seem. Don’t always believe what you see. This is irrevocably true when it comes to Roman and Christina.
For Christina, her life is a perfectly choreographed routine. It allows her to maintain the life she keeps hidden. But she never anticipated “being seen” by Roman.
Roman has tirelessly sought justice and revenge for his family. His methodical plan is upended along with the woman that has captured his attention. Or the woman he thought that had captured his attention, but things aren’t always what they appear to be.
Loyalty can only go far when it comes to the affairs of the heart.
Christina leads a specifically choreographed life. It’s a means to an end. But her secret and end may be coming quicker than she anticipated when she meets Roman.
Roman has sought justice for his family for many years. And while he thinks his target is someone else, he’s about to find out things are not what they seem, and neither is Christina.
Roman was not a white knight but I did appreciate his loyalty and his softer side with Christina. And our heroine was such a strong force.
Great addition to the Diamond Magnate Series.
Merged review:
Things are not always what they seem. Don’t always believe what you see. This is irrevocably true when it comes to Roman and Christina.
For Christina, her life is a perfectly choreographed routine. It allows her to maintain the life she keeps hidden. But she never anticipated “being seen” by Roman.
Roman has tirelessly sought justice and revenge for his family. His methodical plan is upended along with the woman that has captured his attention. Or the woman he thought that had captured his attention, but things aren’t always what they appear to be.
Loyalty can only go far when it comes to the affairs of the heart.
April 28, 2023
This book, I wanted it to go on forever.
Romans story and how it intertwines with the diamond magnate books is a stroke of genious. Introducing Damien within this just makes me want that book like yesterday to see what he will do to Bell.
I just loved the story of Roman and Christina and hope we will see their story develop further and see more of Mateo too.
A fast paced easy read with the charachters you grow to expect from Charmaine Pauls.Fabulous.
Merged review:
This book, I wanted it to go on forever.
Romans story and how it intertwines with the diamond magnate books is a stroke of genious. Introducing Damien within this just makes me want that book like yesterday to see what he will do to Bell.
I just loved the story of Roman and Christina and hope we will see their story develop further and see more of Mateo too.
A fast paced easy read with the charachters you grow to expect from Charmaine Pauls.Fabulous.
Romans story and how it intertwines with the diamond magnate books is a stroke of genious. Introducing Damien within this just makes me want that book like yesterday to see what he will do to Bell.
I just loved the story of Roman and Christina and hope we will see their story develop further and see more of Mateo too.
A fast paced easy read with the charachters you grow to expect from Charmaine Pauls.Fabulous.
Merged review:
This book, I wanted it to go on forever.
Romans story and how it intertwines with the diamond magnate books is a stroke of genious. Introducing Damien within this just makes me want that book like yesterday to see what he will do to Bell.
I just loved the story of Roman and Christina and hope we will see their story develop further and see more of Mateo too.
A fast paced easy read with the charachters you grow to expect from Charmaine Pauls.Fabulous.
May 31, 2022
I don’t know why everyone liked it..it left a bad taste in my mouth
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