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Soul Keeper #1
Deceived
They say a soul is the immaterial essence, the animating principle, the actuating cause of an individual life.
But what if you had to share yours with the one person you hated the most?
The soul mate principle states that for every one soul there is another that will recognize its match, hence creating the perfect union.
But what if you had two soul mates, which would you choose?
What if your choices had eternal ramification?
Deceived, the debut novel in the Soul Keeper Series, is a modern day love story about the implications of having more than one soul mate, and having to choose between the two of them. The decisions of the gods has left the next generation, their heirs, torn between fate and reality, and the balance of the future hangs in anticipation of what's to come.
But what if you had to share yours with the one person you hated the most?
The soul mate principle states that for every one soul there is another that will recognize its match, hence creating the perfect union.
But what if you had two soul mates, which would you choose?
What if your choices had eternal ramification?
Deceived, the debut novel in the Soul Keeper Series, is a modern day love story about the implications of having more than one soul mate, and having to choose between the two of them. The decisions of the gods has left the next generation, their heirs, torn between fate and reality, and the balance of the future hangs in anticipation of what's to come.
505 pages, Paperback
First published August 28, 2014
988 people are currently reading
2811 people want to read
About the author
L.A. Starkey
14 books279 followersLA Starkey or Laurie is the author of the Amazon Best Selling series, The Soul Keeper, a supernatural young adult series, and The Liarus Detective Series, a supernatural middle-grade series.
She is a former-CPA turned full-time fiction writer. Writing and reading are passions she just can’t help but indulge in on a daily basis. She lives with her husband and teenage son in Nashville, TN, and enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, and coming up with new ideas!
Come find me:
Facebook => https://www.facebook.com/L.A.StarkeyA...
Email => la@lastarkeybooks.com
She is a former-CPA turned full-time fiction writer. Writing and reading are passions she just can’t help but indulge in on a daily basis. She lives with her husband and teenage son in Nashville, TN, and enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, and coming up with new ideas!
Come find me:
Facebook => https://www.facebook.com/L.A.StarkeyA...
Email => la@lastarkeybooks.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 169 reviews
January 12, 2019
You know when you start wondering, "WHY was I interested in reading this again?" it's going to go bad... very bad. As in, down the rabbit hole and ending with a lot of injuries bad. It's just the matter of how long the book would last before you grew tired of it and just couldn't handle it anymore. From early on in chapter one, I started asking myself that question. Then I hopped onto Goodreads, looked up the synopsis and figured out why I bothered reading the book in the first place.
Deceived is obviously not the book for me – the synopsis even warns me of so: "Deceived, the debut novel in the Soul Keeper Series, is a modern day love story about the implications of having more than one soul mate, and having to choose between the two of them. The decisions of the gods has left the next generation, their heirs, torn between fate and reality, and the balance of the future hangs in anticipation of what’s to come."
It's a modern day love story set in the last year – obviously I shouldn't have taken a second glance after that. Problem? The title was interesting, the idea of ending up with two soul mates instead of one was interesting... I figured it would be something very promising despite the blaring warning this would be a love story. Oh, and I totally give props to the author for saying, "having to choose between the two of them." What are the chances of a book saying there's a love triangle before you even start the story? A rarity, let me tell you.
It's not just any love story – I'm sure you're thinking this would be Romeo & Juliet style – it's a book that is literally oozing with love. The first chapter starts out with Sam and Marcus in a dreamscape, and Marcus tries to remind her of their love in Sam's past lives. And Marcus' speech – it is, as his guardian Aldo (I thought it said Afro) says, bordering towards obsession from the very beginning in their dreams. Then there's a love triangle (of course). Nick apparently drools as well in his dreams with Sam.
Let's be a little honest here: I don't have major problems with love triangles. I just like one side better than the other, and sometimes I like both sides and am completely happy no matter the ending where the girl finally chooses who she really wants to be with. But in Deceived...
I like no side. I apparently have problems with drooling boys, and it's not just the corners of the triangle. There's a dude that literally calls her sexy and another one who's hitting on her, and before I know it, this may make a new thingamatrope called a Love Pentagon. Perhaps PentaLove sounds better? Either way, considering the complaints you get from Love Triangles, Love Pentagons are going to have even more protests. And, really, it doesn't go well when the main character doesn't like the guy but doesn't reject him – if you don't like the dude, then say it and break his heart gently and early before you're in too deep to back out instead of just leading him on a leash. Otherwise, I deem you a hopeless romantic who is most likely desperate for love.
There's also way too many POVs going on at once – we go from Sam to Marcus to Sam to... who's next again? Certainly not Marcus. But we're going from Sam to Nick to Julie to whoever – maybe end of chapter – in one chapter . I have no problems with multiple POVs, but I start getting annoyed when there are a million views and nothing too much is going on except for the mere fact a centuries old prophecy is about to have its balls rolling.
Starkey may have a good concept at play in Deceived, but I just don't connect with the writing or the entire idea at large. Plus, the flood of romance? Love is in the book. I don't mean the weird version where it gets all awkward - I mean LITERALLY.
This review was originally posted on Bookwyrming Thoughts
Deceived is obviously not the book for me – the synopsis even warns me of so: "Deceived, the debut novel in the Soul Keeper Series, is a modern day love story about the implications of having more than one soul mate, and having to choose between the two of them. The decisions of the gods has left the next generation, their heirs, torn between fate and reality, and the balance of the future hangs in anticipation of what’s to come."
It's a modern day love story set in the last year – obviously I shouldn't have taken a second glance after that. Problem? The title was interesting, the idea of ending up with two soul mates instead of one was interesting... I figured it would be something very promising despite the blaring warning this would be a love story. Oh, and I totally give props to the author for saying, "having to choose between the two of them." What are the chances of a book saying there's a love triangle before you even start the story? A rarity, let me tell you.
It's not just any love story – I'm sure you're thinking this would be Romeo & Juliet style – it's a book that is literally oozing with love. The first chapter starts out with Sam and Marcus in a dreamscape, and Marcus tries to remind her of their love in Sam's past lives. And Marcus' speech – it is, as his guardian Aldo (I thought it said Afro) says, bordering towards obsession from the very beginning in their dreams. Then there's a love triangle (of course). Nick apparently drools as well in his dreams with Sam.
“Let it leave your lips, Samantha. Say it. Tell me you know me. That you’ve missed me,” Marcus whispered. “Say it … Come on, Sam ...”
Let's be a little honest here: I don't have major problems with love triangles. I just like one side better than the other, and sometimes I like both sides and am completely happy no matter the ending where the girl finally chooses who she really wants to be with. But in Deceived...
I like no side. I apparently have problems with drooling boys, and it's not just the corners of the triangle. There's a dude that literally calls her sexy and another one who's hitting on her, and before I know it, this may make a new thingamatrope called a Love Pentagon. Perhaps PentaLove sounds better? Either way, considering the complaints you get from Love Triangles, Love Pentagons are going to have even more protests. And, really, it doesn't go well when the main character doesn't like the guy but doesn't reject him – if you don't like the dude, then say it and break his heart gently and early before you're in too deep to back out instead of just leading him on a leash. Otherwise, I deem you a hopeless romantic who is most likely desperate for love.
For now she’d make amends, go out with him a few times so he could get her out of his system and nicely let him down. Dating just wasn’t Sam's ball game.
There's also way too many POVs going on at once – we go from Sam to Marcus to Sam to... who's next again? Certainly not Marcus. But we're going from Sam to Nick to Julie to whoever – maybe end of chapter – in one chapter . I have no problems with multiple POVs, but I start getting annoyed when there are a million views and nothing too much is going on except for the mere fact a centuries old prophecy is about to have its balls rolling.
Starkey may have a good concept at play in Deceived, but I just don't connect with the writing or the entire idea at large. Plus, the flood of romance? Love is in the book. I don't mean the weird version where it gets all awkward - I mean LITERALLY.
This review was originally posted on Bookwyrming Thoughts
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January 16, 2015
~Thanks to the author for providing a copy in exchange for an honest review~
Stunning.Wow, it's been a while since I read a book as good as this one. I liked it from the start, and it just got better and better. A new, twisted version of my favourite kind of greek mythology? That's Deceived. Wonderful, fabulous. I meant more than that. Deceived is a very, very twisted version of Greek Mythology, but with the principles of it. It's more modern day than normal. deceived is certainly twisted. it's so twisted to the point when it all seems so predictable, L.A. Starkey does the opposite of the expected. Surprise. You thought this might happen? Too bad. You're wrong. That kind of stuff. The ending was very simplistic, yet powerful. As I got through it, I wanted to read more and more. And wrong, I wasn't wrong. Deceived was fantastic! Such a good Greek Mythology tale... So, the characters, they were great. Deceived actually has a love triangle, but it's all twisted. And then there's love triangle two- with humans, that aren't supposed to be part of the big prophecy. I really loved Deceived. really, really. So many surprises, in a good way, sustaining, and definitely alluring. An amazing book, I'd definitely recommend reading.
Stunning.Wow, it's been a while since I read a book as good as this one. I liked it from the start, and it just got better and better. A new, twisted version of my favourite kind of greek mythology? That's Deceived. Wonderful, fabulous. I meant more than that. Deceived is a very, very twisted version of Greek Mythology, but with the principles of it. It's more modern day than normal. deceived is certainly twisted. it's so twisted to the point when it all seems so predictable, L.A. Starkey does the opposite of the expected. Surprise. You thought this might happen? Too bad. You're wrong. That kind of stuff. The ending was very simplistic, yet powerful. As I got through it, I wanted to read more and more. And wrong, I wasn't wrong. Deceived was fantastic! Such a good Greek Mythology tale... So, the characters, they were great. Deceived actually has a love triangle, but it's all twisted. And then there's love triangle two- with humans, that aren't supposed to be part of the big prophecy. I really loved Deceived. really, really. So many surprises, in a good way, sustaining, and definitely alluring. An amazing book, I'd definitely recommend reading.
January 26, 2015
He wove an intricate story of devastation and revenge, love and hate.
Once again, Greek mythology proves to be an immortal and inexhaustible source of inspiration for the fantasy literature. However, often, authors tend to modify or add too much to the deities and heroes’ characteristics, so the classic "typologies" are altered, and their original pattern becomes unrecognizable. This is not always bad, but I think when you add to or continue a story, you must respect, broadly, the original features. Of course, the way in which we perceive and receive the Greek mythology (and the universal one, in general) depends on the sources of information we had. I’m happy to say that Mrs. Starkey not only "caught" the main treads and the important details, but also that the story which started in Deceived fits and respects what I personally learned and knew about the Gods and Heroes of Olympus. Also, the characteristics of the old Greek tale elements are present: the lust for power, jealousy, betrayal and cheating, next to the love and sacrifice are just a few that you will encounter.
The starting point - soul mate matter- is not unknown to the Greek mythology and even Plato himself was talking about it. Of course, over time, its romantic meaning - met in Deceived too - has gained ground, but that does not change the stakes of the present game. I loved the question asked about the "soul-mate" - there would be the same love between those involved, if this "predestination" would not exist? What the "soul mate" is more precisely? From my point of view, a plus for Deceived is that Mrs. Starkey questioned the opposition of "free will" and predestination. Her characters have the choice to choose between complying with destiny mapped for them by others –according to the prophecy - and risking, exercising their own free-will.
“You know, the union that neither of us would’ve signed up for if it wasn’t damned, oh, I mean, destined to be?”
Sam, the main female character, delicate and strong at the same time, will allow the author to develop the story in any direction and perhaps her reasons of her behavior regarding the "loved ones" will be explained better over the next volume.
The way in which the male characters are presented is another plus. Each character now directly involved or not in the prophecy (I specify now because anything can happen) has a good side and a bad one. What part of them will win and what role each of them will have until the end, it remains to be found out, but I think all the guys, immortal or not, will have their own supporters.
Although I felt that Deceived is the preparation phase, the author managed to not make it boring. On the contrary. The way the author alternated the romantic scenes (that take place in the real world or in the dream one), the mundane high school ones and the one that are almost horror, and the way in which she introduced the relationships (all of Sam’s relationships having a romantic potential), have the effect of maintaining the reader's curiosity and a good pace, the tension development being well graded. There are tense moments, milestones and disturbing events. Questions arise, disapprovals are given and understandings are formed. The way things are going now, anything can happen.
And because anything can happen, the cliffhanger was a proper denouement. Fortunately, the third volume, the last one, will be available soon too, and we only have to read the next books and find out if there is a happy ending to this new “ode” romance in “ancient meter”.
‘The suffering of fate—Zeus's final revenge on Prometheus: God of Gods vs. Father of Mankind, the brothers that serve them both and the final prophecy that will lay them asunder.’
http://www.mythicalbooks.blogspot.ro/...
Once again, Greek mythology proves to be an immortal and inexhaustible source of inspiration for the fantasy literature. However, often, authors tend to modify or add too much to the deities and heroes’ characteristics, so the classic "typologies" are altered, and their original pattern becomes unrecognizable. This is not always bad, but I think when you add to or continue a story, you must respect, broadly, the original features. Of course, the way in which we perceive and receive the Greek mythology (and the universal one, in general) depends on the sources of information we had. I’m happy to say that Mrs. Starkey not only "caught" the main treads and the important details, but also that the story which started in Deceived fits and respects what I personally learned and knew about the Gods and Heroes of Olympus. Also, the characteristics of the old Greek tale elements are present: the lust for power, jealousy, betrayal and cheating, next to the love and sacrifice are just a few that you will encounter.
The starting point - soul mate matter- is not unknown to the Greek mythology and even Plato himself was talking about it. Of course, over time, its romantic meaning - met in Deceived too - has gained ground, but that does not change the stakes of the present game. I loved the question asked about the "soul-mate" - there would be the same love between those involved, if this "predestination" would not exist? What the "soul mate" is more precisely? From my point of view, a plus for Deceived is that Mrs. Starkey questioned the opposition of "free will" and predestination. Her characters have the choice to choose between complying with destiny mapped for them by others –according to the prophecy - and risking, exercising their own free-will.
“You know, the union that neither of us would’ve signed up for if it wasn’t damned, oh, I mean, destined to be?”
Sam, the main female character, delicate and strong at the same time, will allow the author to develop the story in any direction and perhaps her reasons of her behavior regarding the "loved ones" will be explained better over the next volume.
The way in which the male characters are presented is another plus. Each character now directly involved or not in the prophecy (I specify now because anything can happen) has a good side and a bad one. What part of them will win and what role each of them will have until the end, it remains to be found out, but I think all the guys, immortal or not, will have their own supporters.
Although I felt that Deceived is the preparation phase, the author managed to not make it boring. On the contrary. The way the author alternated the romantic scenes (that take place in the real world or in the dream one), the mundane high school ones and the one that are almost horror, and the way in which she introduced the relationships (all of Sam’s relationships having a romantic potential), have the effect of maintaining the reader's curiosity and a good pace, the tension development being well graded. There are tense moments, milestones and disturbing events. Questions arise, disapprovals are given and understandings are formed. The way things are going now, anything can happen.
And because anything can happen, the cliffhanger was a proper denouement. Fortunately, the third volume, the last one, will be available soon too, and we only have to read the next books and find out if there is a happy ending to this new “ode” romance in “ancient meter”.
‘The suffering of fate—Zeus's final revenge on Prometheus: God of Gods vs. Father of Mankind, the brothers that serve them both and the final prophecy that will lay them asunder.’
http://www.mythicalbooks.blogspot.ro/...
February 4, 2015
After A Slow Start, Watch Out For The Action Reading the title I was originally thinking, ugh, not another book about the dead. Than I read the synopsis and couldn't wait to read this, because it was the complete opposite of that. Love, soul mates, and the gods, all wrapped up in one novel. Upon the start of the novel, I was ready to dig in and was ready for an all nighter if it came to that. Unfortunately, it did not grab me as I thought it would.
Honestly, wrap the first half of this book into a chapter, or even a prologue and take it from there. That's exactly how long it took before things started happening. Yes, we are introduced to the characters, but not to the point that it really mattered. The character development itself lacked in the beginning, all feeling a bit stiff and with no chemistry between themselves nor with the reader. As a reader, it felt like I was getting nowhere with the story.
After that point, things pick up. The prophecy is set in to motion and the action starts up. The Greek mythology comes to the forefront, the theme intensifies and the fight is on. This is where the reader gets glued to the story and doesn't want to let go. So much going on, layers of stories meshed together and the story finds its legs. And of course, you are left with unanswered questions which will bring you wanting to read the next book as soon as possible.
A good start to a new series, readers who enjoy Greek mythology will find an interest in this book, along with those who like paranormal romances. I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
Honestly, wrap the first half of this book into a chapter, or even a prologue and take it from there. That's exactly how long it took before things started happening. Yes, we are introduced to the characters, but not to the point that it really mattered. The character development itself lacked in the beginning, all feeling a bit stiff and with no chemistry between themselves nor with the reader. As a reader, it felt like I was getting nowhere with the story.
After that point, things pick up. The prophecy is set in to motion and the action starts up. The Greek mythology comes to the forefront, the theme intensifies and the fight is on. This is where the reader gets glued to the story and doesn't want to let go. So much going on, layers of stories meshed together and the story finds its legs. And of course, you are left with unanswered questions which will bring you wanting to read the next book as soon as possible.
A good start to a new series, readers who enjoy Greek mythology will find an interest in this book, along with those who like paranormal romances. I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
January 30, 2015
This is a bit of a tricky review to write, because, if I'm honest, it took me a few goes to get into this story. But once I did, I was really glad that I persevered.
This is a clever mix of mythology with modern teenage life. For me, the first half of the book or so is a little slower, as it is all about the set up. But. There is an incident (no I'm not going to tell you what it is, but trust me, read the book and you'll know) which kicks everything off with a bang. And then the pace really picks up.
I found that I was much more invested in the storyline after said "incident". It is clear that there are threads woven through the story which make it hard to predict where it will go in the next volume. And I love that unpredictability. It made for an exciting read.
I'm looking forward to getting stuck into the next one!
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review
This is a clever mix of mythology with modern teenage life. For me, the first half of the book or so is a little slower, as it is all about the set up. But. There is an incident (no I'm not going to tell you what it is, but trust me, read the book and you'll know) which kicks everything off with a bang. And then the pace really picks up.
I found that I was much more invested in the storyline after said "incident". It is clear that there are threads woven through the story which make it hard to predict where it will go in the next volume. And I love that unpredictability. It made for an exciting read.
I'm looking forward to getting stuck into the next one!
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review
January 8, 2015
This book was good from start to finish! I had a hard time putting it down, wanting to know what was going to happen next. The story is very imaginative and well written. I am excited to get the next book in the series to see what happens. I highly recommend this book not only as a YA, but really for anyone because it has imagination, action, mystery, romance, thrills and it was just magical!
September 16, 2019
Looking back at the synopsis I'm really not sure why I grabbed this. I already hate love triangles but this...this was more like a reverse harem. On top of having two soul mates she's got a human boyfriend. Granted they start dating before she knows about the other two guys but...come on.
Besides this, absolutely nothing happens for the first 50% of the book. Unless you want to count the boys visiting her in their spirit form and forcing themselves on her. (No, I'm not kidding. It happens around the 35% mark in Kindle)
I did end up skipping to the end and that was actually a nice twist. So I'll give it that. But I won't finish this series.
Besides this, absolutely nothing happens for the first 50% of the book. Unless you want to count the boys visiting her in their spirit form and forcing themselves on her. (No, I'm not kidding. It happens around the 35% mark in Kindle)
I did end up skipping to the end and that was actually a nice twist. So I'll give it that. But I won't finish this series.
December 24, 2014
Deceived is a YA fantasy and the first book in a series. Sam and Julie are best friends and live in Manchester, New Hampshire. They are Juniors at High School. The book opens with a very vivid dream scene for Sam, she's in a dream meeting a boy she has met in many of her life-times, yet she doesn't remember him. He has to suffer the pain of her leaving him once more. Yet Sam hears another voice calling her too.
Sam and Julie are both adopted, they were at the same orphanage and became firm friends and stayed friends after their separate adoptions. At school Sam is very athletic, not usually one to chase the boys, she can't help it when her hormones are attracted to Ken, although her head knows he can be a serial player, her heart wants some fun. A history project on the ancient Greeks has Sam borrowing a strange book from the library called "The Soul Keeper".
Nick and Marcus are brothers, Grandsons of Zeus, to them Sam is their Dream-catcher and they vie for her attention in her dreams. Yet they are all destined to be players in a much larger fight. A prophecy is about to be opened by the Time Guardian, Nick and Marcus have been waiting for their destiny to unfold for hundred of years.
I read this book in one day because it kept me so engaged with the story that I didn't want to put it down. There's lots going on in the story, but it all flows really well and I like books with the ancient Gods and mythology of any nation. I would definitely pick up the next book in the series, I am dying to know what happens to them all.
Sam and Julie are both adopted, they were at the same orphanage and became firm friends and stayed friends after their separate adoptions. At school Sam is very athletic, not usually one to chase the boys, she can't help it when her hormones are attracted to Ken, although her head knows he can be a serial player, her heart wants some fun. A history project on the ancient Greeks has Sam borrowing a strange book from the library called "The Soul Keeper".
Nick and Marcus are brothers, Grandsons of Zeus, to them Sam is their Dream-catcher and they vie for her attention in her dreams. Yet they are all destined to be players in a much larger fight. A prophecy is about to be opened by the Time Guardian, Nick and Marcus have been waiting for their destiny to unfold for hundred of years.
I read this book in one day because it kept me so engaged with the story that I didn't want to put it down. There's lots going on in the story, but it all flows really well and I like books with the ancient Gods and mythology of any nation. I would definitely pick up the next book in the series, I am dying to know what happens to them all.
September 7, 2016
Where do I start? This book was fantastic. The characters, the plot, the suspense, ugh! It was almost too much!
Let's begin with Sam, Marcus and Nick. They were too beautiful! All of them! They are the type of characters that take a hold of your heart the very first time you meet them and then refuse to let go. My poor heart is mutilated with how many times it broke for these three. The complex, intricate relationship between the three of them was almost torturous in its beauty.
Oh, and the plot! Sometimes, the suspense the author created had my heart in my throat. We are given the real story little by little, in tiny tidbits that are enough to keep us informed, but dying for more. Oh, and don't get me started on the ending. Cliffhanger beware!
The writing was elegant and flowing. Sometimes, it bordered on purple prose, but never quite went there. I felt the dialogue was a bit iffy and not very natural. True, they need to speak in a bit of an antiquated way because of the setting, but I didn't feel that the author pulled it off quite well. But that aside, it was a very, very good book.
Who do I recommend this to?
Every fantasy lover out there needs to read this, especially if they're suckers for gorgeous characters and Greek mythology
Thanks to Netgalley and BookTrope for providing me a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
PS - Find more book reviews at my blog> http://thebookish-life.blogspot.com
Let's begin with Sam, Marcus and Nick. They were too beautiful! All of them! They are the type of characters that take a hold of your heart the very first time you meet them and then refuse to let go. My poor heart is mutilated with how many times it broke for these three. The complex, intricate relationship between the three of them was almost torturous in its beauty.
Oh, and the plot! Sometimes, the suspense the author created had my heart in my throat. We are given the real story little by little, in tiny tidbits that are enough to keep us informed, but dying for more. Oh, and don't get me started on the ending. Cliffhanger beware!
The writing was elegant and flowing. Sometimes, it bordered on purple prose, but never quite went there. I felt the dialogue was a bit iffy and not very natural. True, they need to speak in a bit of an antiquated way because of the setting, but I didn't feel that the author pulled it off quite well. But that aside, it was a very, very good book.
Who do I recommend this to?
Every fantasy lover out there needs to read this, especially if they're suckers for gorgeous characters and Greek mythology
Thanks to Netgalley and BookTrope for providing me a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
PS - Find more book reviews at my blog> http://thebookish-life.blogspot.com
March 17, 2015
Okay, so I barely made it through like fifteen percent of this book because the writing is utterly, abjectly awful. Thus, my comments will be on the writing alone because there wasn't really much plot in what I managed to get though.
Deceived has my two major pet peeves, those being descriptions with metric tons of purple prose and errors in spelling (such as "Shakespearian" instead of "Shakespearean" and "Lincoln Park" instead of "Linkin Park") that a good spellchecker or an editor should definitely have picked up. My suggestion for the latter is this: don't reference something if you don't actually know what it is. If you're going to pick a band... pick one you can spell, please.
And the descriptions. There were a ton of descriptions of the main female, Sam, in what I read and they were so purple they put grapes and plums to shame. It's so different from the rest of the narration, it doesn't even feel like it belongs. "Of course, Sam. I'm sorry. You look beautiful. That shade of lavender against your soft skin and beautiful eyes reminds me of the essence of color that lingers in the sky just before twilight. You're such a rare beauty and you're all... all..." That's dialogue, folks. Who the ever-loving fuck talks like that? Nobody, that's who.
Goodreads, please implement half stars. This doesn't deserve a full one.
Deceived has my two major pet peeves, those being descriptions with metric tons of purple prose and errors in spelling (such as "Shakespearian" instead of "Shakespearean" and "Lincoln Park" instead of "Linkin Park") that a good spellchecker or an editor should definitely have picked up. My suggestion for the latter is this: don't reference something if you don't actually know what it is. If you're going to pick a band... pick one you can spell, please.
And the descriptions. There were a ton of descriptions of the main female, Sam, in what I read and they were so purple they put grapes and plums to shame. It's so different from the rest of the narration, it doesn't even feel like it belongs. "Of course, Sam. I'm sorry. You look beautiful. That shade of lavender against your soft skin and beautiful eyes reminds me of the essence of color that lingers in the sky just before twilight. You're such a rare beauty and you're all... all..." That's dialogue, folks. Who the ever-loving fuck talks like that? Nobody, that's who.
Goodreads, please implement half stars. This doesn't deserve a full one.
January 19, 2015
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
What a wonderful start to what I expect will be one of those epic young adult trilogies everyone inevitably winds up raving about. And in this case, I certainly think that is deserved. Even though I have a bit of a predisposition to paranormal young adult stories that involve mythology (see: my clamoring to read everything by Rick Riordan), I think this is one that would be enjoyable even for those who are not major fans of the genre.
The characters here are endearing and engaging. There are complicated dynamics here that are evident even before everyone's true nature and role are revealed. And the reveal is well-done, leaving the reader with just as many questions as answers. The story builds to an end that is unexpected and will leave readers wanting more.
I will definitely be picking up the second book. I need to know what happens next.
What a wonderful start to what I expect will be one of those epic young adult trilogies everyone inevitably winds up raving about. And in this case, I certainly think that is deserved. Even though I have a bit of a predisposition to paranormal young adult stories that involve mythology (see: my clamoring to read everything by Rick Riordan), I think this is one that would be enjoyable even for those who are not major fans of the genre.
The characters here are endearing and engaging. There are complicated dynamics here that are evident even before everyone's true nature and role are revealed. And the reveal is well-done, leaving the reader with just as many questions as answers. The story builds to an end that is unexpected and will leave readers wanting more.
I will definitely be picking up the second book. I need to know what happens next.
December 4, 2014
I started to get into this story right from the middle of it when Samantha also became fully involved in her dreams, and the characters in her dreams. I do not usually go for dream stories, but this one was so well crafted that the dream part melted well into the real part, and the two became one.
My enjoyment of the story started from that middle part, and I could not put it down afterward. In the end, the story simply urged me to read on to know what happened in the end to those toys in the hands of the gods.
The book was so compelling that I overlooked the many lapses in editing that I came across. When I read a good book, I usually do. I would however ask the author to take another look at these lapses, should there be a second edition of the book. The lapses did not take from the book, but for such a good read, the book deserves a better clean-up. Great story.
My enjoyment of the story started from that middle part, and I could not put it down afterward. In the end, the story simply urged me to read on to know what happened in the end to those toys in the hands of the gods.
The book was so compelling that I overlooked the many lapses in editing that I came across. When I read a good book, I usually do. I would however ask the author to take another look at these lapses, should there be a second edition of the book. The lapses did not take from the book, but for such a good read, the book deserves a better clean-up. Great story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 12, 2014
Deceived, the first book in The Soul Keeper series, follows the life of a young girl Sam. Raised in foster care, Sam trusts very few people and closes herself off from those who wish to love her.
She also has very vivid dreams and finds herself losing time during her waking hours, sometimes fearing that she might be going crazy.
What she doesn't realise, is that the dreams she has of mysterious handsome strangers are very real indeed, and that her destiny has already been written by the Gods of Old.
The story is expertly written, and feels like a fresh new twist on the idea of a fantasy romance story for teenagers. It has elements of the supernatural, and is even rather spooky at times, but at no point does it feel cliché or run of the mill.
In would highly recommend this book, and eagerly look forward to reading the next installment, which was recently released.
She also has very vivid dreams and finds herself losing time during her waking hours, sometimes fearing that she might be going crazy.
What she doesn't realise, is that the dreams she has of mysterious handsome strangers are very real indeed, and that her destiny has already been written by the Gods of Old.
The story is expertly written, and feels like a fresh new twist on the idea of a fantasy romance story for teenagers. It has elements of the supernatural, and is even rather spooky at times, but at no point does it feel cliché or run of the mill.
In would highly recommend this book, and eagerly look forward to reading the next installment, which was recently released.
January 12, 2015
All I can say is WOW I was not expecting this at all. Deceived, (Soul Keeper Series 1) is a wonderful book and will keep your interest until the very end and leave you wanting more. My favorite passage from this book is towards the beginning: “‘checking you out.’ Which I have to admit is like going to the candy store. Such a treat.” I laughed out loud because any teenage girl has had thoughts of this kind before. And like any good book about a teenage girl the book shows the jealousy and desertion they feel. Though I am not big on love stories this book does have an interesting love interest within its pages. One that is not of a natural realm with not one but two immortal bothers; interesting indeed
October 25, 2014
I spent a few hours writing this review and I ended up deleting most of it due to spoilers, lol. Let me just say...what a GREAT book. The first thing that wow'ed me was the beautiful storytelling by Starkey. Just beautiful. This book had me guessing from the get-go - a sure sign that I'm hooked. I was quite surprised, in a great way, by the Greek Mythology element. I wasn't expecting that at all, but it tied in well with the story. Overall, the balance of this novel was great and I can't wait to read more! The ending was so unexpected...I hope I don't have to wait long for more.
December 27, 2014
This book made me feel like I was 16 again!
It has been a while since I read YA paranormal fiction set in modern times, and this book reminded me why I used to love this type of read.
L. A. Starkey takes you on an emotional ride with tragedy and confusion, with the perfect amount of relief, and an overload of beautiful men to get your weary mind off your troubles. I recommend it to anyone looking for a modern ya paranormal read!
It has been a while since I read YA paranormal fiction set in modern times, and this book reminded me why I used to love this type of read.
L. A. Starkey takes you on an emotional ride with tragedy and confusion, with the perfect amount of relief, and an overload of beautiful men to get your weary mind off your troubles. I recommend it to anyone looking for a modern ya paranormal read!
February 10, 2015
5 Stars
A highly emotional story that will suck you in and keep you guessing. I was amazed at the depth of emotion the author has created into the story. The love Sam feels for her friend Julie is touching, yet when tragedy strikes the heartache and anguish that Sam goes through comes out even stronger.
I would highly recommend this story to any that like YA or Fantasy.
(Disclaimer - I received this ebook from Netgalley in exchange for a honest review!)
A highly emotional story that will suck you in and keep you guessing. I was amazed at the depth of emotion the author has created into the story. The love Sam feels for her friend Julie is touching, yet when tragedy strikes the heartache and anguish that Sam goes through comes out even stronger.
I would highly recommend this story to any that like YA or Fantasy.
(Disclaimer - I received this ebook from Netgalley in exchange for a honest review!)
May 9, 2016
Wonderful Fantasy. The book has all the action you could ever want to go along with a strong willed feisty girl. It is fast moving and holds your attention until the end and does leave you wanting more. I will be buying book #2. If you like fantasy you will like this book. The author did a great job and I hate having to wait for the second one.
February 19, 2015
Looking forward to reading book 2! Interesting storyline and kudos to the author for weaving a highly creative story!
May 22, 2015
I received this book from the author for an honest review! OMGOSH! So good! I loved it and can't wait to read book 2!
May 5, 2018
2.5 Stars
Read all my reviews on http://urlphantomhive.booklikes.com
I feelt slightly 'deceived' as I was expecting something much more fantasy-like based on the cover. Instead, the story bottles down to two guys (who apparently share a soul) both fight for the favour of a girl, their soulmate, in order to become the sole possessor of said shared soul. So romantic, no?
It was a quick read, but I never really felt into it. Had I known the focus would be so much on the development of the romance, even though I think the motives of both guys are questionable, I would have maybe skipped it because that is really not something I usually like to read about. There is some immersion of Greek mythology, which will keep me reading into the second book, which I already have and will be reading soon.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Read all my reviews on http://urlphantomhive.booklikes.com
I feelt slightly 'deceived' as I was expecting something much more fantasy-like based on the cover. Instead, the story bottles down to two guys (who apparently share a soul) both fight for the favour of a girl, their soulmate, in order to become the sole possessor of said shared soul. So romantic, no?
It was a quick read, but I never really felt into it. Had I known the focus would be so much on the development of the romance, even though I think the motives of both guys are questionable, I would have maybe skipped it because that is really not something I usually like to read about. There is some immersion of Greek mythology, which will keep me reading into the second book, which I already have and will be reading soon.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
November 29, 2014
I received a copy of this book as part of the Goddess Fish Promotions Blog Tour.
I really did love this book, so why 4 stars instead of 5? Well, it is the first in a series and I do feel that there was a bit of information overload. There’s a fine line that has to be walked in a first book within a series that is going to “set the stage” for the rest of the series. There’s a lot of information that has to be given to the reader, in this case we need a bit of a lesson in Greek Mythology; and that has to be done in a way that doesn’t come off as “textbook” or it becomes a little tedious to read. I think the author did a fantastic job of walking this line, but for me at least, the same information was being repeated on multiple occasions. We are given small snippets of the larger story here and there and then given the entire story. And we are given the full story of how Zeus became the God of Gods and overthrew the Titans, along with his brothers… etc. I do understand that for someone who may have no knowledge of how the hierarchy of the Greek Gods goes and how they are exactly related to the Titans, this is very necessary, but it makes for a longer story and I found myself skimming those passages where there was information I already knew. But now that all the information has been thrown at us, I truthfully feel this is going to be a fantastic series.
Samantha (Sam) is an orphan who was adopted as a teenager by the Parkers. Her best friend, Julie, was adopted at the same time. Her entire life, Sam has only ever been able to count on Julie. She’s the only person she’s ever been able to depend on, the only person she feels really “gets” her. Now they live in different towns (but still close enough to visit frequently) and attend different schools. The Parkers adore Sam and treat her as they do their own daughter. Sam is a natural athlete and draws the attention of the star basketball player, Ken. She has sworn that she will never allow anyone other than Julie into her heart, so she vows that she’s just going to be friends with Ken.
While we are exploring Sam’s life, we learn of Marcus and Nicholas. They are brothers, but it’s complicated. Their grandfather is Zeus, they have different mothers, they do not know who their father is… but we later learn that he is a Titan. There is a prophecy, Marcus, Nicholas, Juliana (their sister), and Sam are all a part of this prophecy. Nicholas has read part of the prophecy (on a dare from Marcus) and shared what he read to get his brother’s take on what it said; but Marcus did not believe what Nicholas told him. The prophecy has caused a huge riff between all of the siblings.
Even though Marcus and Nicholas are nearly 400 years old, they stopped aging physically at seventeen. So, they can easily fit in with the high school crowd. The prophecy is about to start playing out… they are all in the same town, attending the same school… let the games begin.
I loved all of the characters. The relationship between Julie and her adoptive brother, Brent, cracked me up. I hear my own kids bickering back and forth every time those two interacted. Even though the Parkers adore Sam, and she seems to really like them, she’s built this wall up and refuses to truly let anyone in. She has an adoptive sister, but there is very little contact with her. I’m torn between the brothers… I’m not sure who I’m more in love with :) Ken…I have to say that Ken is probably the character that I trust the least. There is a scene where he shows his true colors (even though he doesn’t know that Sam is there) and from that point I just can’t bring myself to trust him. I have to keep wondering if the warnings that Sam keeps getting from Julie are about the person she thinks they are or if they are really about Ken.
The story flows along at a nice pace. Once I really got into the story, which was about chapter 3… I couldn’t put it down! It does end with a cliffhanger… but have no fear, because book 2 is set to be released on November 15! I’ve pre-ordered my copy because I have to find out what happens.
If you love mythology, romance, supernatural/fantasy, and young adult… you are sure to love this book!
I really did love this book, so why 4 stars instead of 5? Well, it is the first in a series and I do feel that there was a bit of information overload. There’s a fine line that has to be walked in a first book within a series that is going to “set the stage” for the rest of the series. There’s a lot of information that has to be given to the reader, in this case we need a bit of a lesson in Greek Mythology; and that has to be done in a way that doesn’t come off as “textbook” or it becomes a little tedious to read. I think the author did a fantastic job of walking this line, but for me at least, the same information was being repeated on multiple occasions. We are given small snippets of the larger story here and there and then given the entire story. And we are given the full story of how Zeus became the God of Gods and overthrew the Titans, along with his brothers… etc. I do understand that for someone who may have no knowledge of how the hierarchy of the Greek Gods goes and how they are exactly related to the Titans, this is very necessary, but it makes for a longer story and I found myself skimming those passages where there was information I already knew. But now that all the information has been thrown at us, I truthfully feel this is going to be a fantastic series.
Samantha (Sam) is an orphan who was adopted as a teenager by the Parkers. Her best friend, Julie, was adopted at the same time. Her entire life, Sam has only ever been able to count on Julie. She’s the only person she’s ever been able to depend on, the only person she feels really “gets” her. Now they live in different towns (but still close enough to visit frequently) and attend different schools. The Parkers adore Sam and treat her as they do their own daughter. Sam is a natural athlete and draws the attention of the star basketball player, Ken. She has sworn that she will never allow anyone other than Julie into her heart, so she vows that she’s just going to be friends with Ken.
While we are exploring Sam’s life, we learn of Marcus and Nicholas. They are brothers, but it’s complicated. Their grandfather is Zeus, they have different mothers, they do not know who their father is… but we later learn that he is a Titan. There is a prophecy, Marcus, Nicholas, Juliana (their sister), and Sam are all a part of this prophecy. Nicholas has read part of the prophecy (on a dare from Marcus) and shared what he read to get his brother’s take on what it said; but Marcus did not believe what Nicholas told him. The prophecy has caused a huge riff between all of the siblings.
Even though Marcus and Nicholas are nearly 400 years old, they stopped aging physically at seventeen. So, they can easily fit in with the high school crowd. The prophecy is about to start playing out… they are all in the same town, attending the same school… let the games begin.
I loved all of the characters. The relationship between Julie and her adoptive brother, Brent, cracked me up. I hear my own kids bickering back and forth every time those two interacted. Even though the Parkers adore Sam, and she seems to really like them, she’s built this wall up and refuses to truly let anyone in. She has an adoptive sister, but there is very little contact with her. I’m torn between the brothers… I’m not sure who I’m more in love with :) Ken…I have to say that Ken is probably the character that I trust the least. There is a scene where he shows his true colors (even though he doesn’t know that Sam is there) and from that point I just can’t bring myself to trust him. I have to keep wondering if the warnings that Sam keeps getting from Julie are about the person she thinks they are or if they are really about Ken.
The story flows along at a nice pace. Once I really got into the story, which was about chapter 3… I couldn’t put it down! It does end with a cliffhanger… but have no fear, because book 2 is set to be released on November 15! I’ve pre-ordered my copy because I have to find out what happens.
If you love mythology, romance, supernatural/fantasy, and young adult… you are sure to love this book!
February 4, 2015
For the full review post click the link below.
http://misslittlebookaddictya.blogspo...
Lots of people say there's no use in reinventing the wheel. I disagree. STRONGLY. Especially when it comes to books. I love books that take the standard and flip it. DECEIVED by L.A. Starkey does just that; and I give her major props for doing it and making it work. She has taken the myth of Prometheus/Zeus/Titans Vs. Gods and changed the story so throughly it surprised even me when it all became clear.
YA Retellings/reimagining/recreations are my fav kind of stories to read, but often time you'll find that while some things are different--a lot is still the same. Perfect example:the standard love triangle of YA or the myth of Hades and Persephone.
DECEIVED does pull on the love triangle aspect, but to me it felt different and I really liked it. However, all this praise does not mean I don't have a few issues with this book, thus the 3 star rating.
Sam is our heroine and also referred to as a Soul keeper. I liked her a lot, but I had issues with how her actions would contradict her personality and thoughts. She doesn't like to get close to people--boys--but she lets one of the high school guys be all over her and she doesn't even seem to really like him. Frustrating for me as a reader. Other than that, she was great. Strong, funny and quick thinking.
Our two heroes, sigh....Marcus and Nicholas. Brothers and both sons of a Titan. Both hot guys are soul mates to Sam. But they themselves are two halves of the same soul, thus why Sam has two soul mates. Both boys are very different--a representation of "light and dark" to my reader eyes and imagination. And, fortunately, both guys are very well developed characters. I see similarities but also very unique characteristics that draw me to Marcus and Nicolas respectively.
I think Marcus is my favorite---because he never contradicted himself!
Nick was the cool bad boy, doesn't like that he's being "used" for this prophecy and wants a way out. But, like Sam, he contradicts himself. He is drawn to and dreams of Sam, is lustful for her in their dreams, then bam some other chick seems to appear from his past and he's all about she was his one true love. Very confusing. I actually had to set the book down just after this because I was getting bored and confused.
Clearly, I did pick it back up, and I'm glad I did.
Julie is another character important to the story. She's Sam's bestie and also "soul sister" to Marc and Nick (though only in the dream parts of the book). She was a pretty cool character over all, along with her brother who was a third tier character.
I said earlier L.A. took the legend of Prometheus and changed it, which I love, but getting all this new information to the reader, and making sure it was clear and understandable.....I think I remember it taking almost 4 chapters. That's a lot of unneeded information for me, plus it kept hopping POV's and that broke up what could have been a very nice flow. I was tempted to set it down again, but I mad myself continue on. Once we got past the info dump, a bit more than half of the way through the book, the story started to come alive for me; and Sam finally meets the boys in person and learns about her part of the prophecy dealio.
The relationships between all the characters is really enjoyable, on all levels. The main characters are easy to relate to, even if you did not have to go through what Sam did with being adopted.
WARNING: DECIEVED stops off at a very interesting place, though not in a good way for me. It felt like we stopped on a chapter and the rest of the book didn't download. Know what I mean?
It wasn't horrible, but just felt very cut off with a lot still left unresolved.
Overall I liked this book well enough, I am even planning on reading the ARC of the second book L.A. so graciously sent with the copy of the first book, but it is one that does not have top priority for me because of my issues above. I will read it, because I want to know what happens, just not right away. DECEIVED hasn't totally hooked me on a new addiction.....yet. Who know what the second book might bring.
~Dynomoon
http://misslittlebookaddictya.blogspo...
Lots of people say there's no use in reinventing the wheel. I disagree. STRONGLY. Especially when it comes to books. I love books that take the standard and flip it. DECEIVED by L.A. Starkey does just that; and I give her major props for doing it and making it work. She has taken the myth of Prometheus/Zeus/Titans Vs. Gods and changed the story so throughly it surprised even me when it all became clear.
YA Retellings/reimagining/recreations are my fav kind of stories to read, but often time you'll find that while some things are different--a lot is still the same. Perfect example:the standard love triangle of YA or the myth of Hades and Persephone.
DECEIVED does pull on the love triangle aspect, but to me it felt different and I really liked it. However, all this praise does not mean I don't have a few issues with this book, thus the 3 star rating.
Sam is our heroine and also referred to as a Soul keeper. I liked her a lot, but I had issues with how her actions would contradict her personality and thoughts. She doesn't like to get close to people--boys--but she lets one of the high school guys be all over her and she doesn't even seem to really like him. Frustrating for me as a reader. Other than that, she was great. Strong, funny and quick thinking.
Our two heroes, sigh....Marcus and Nicholas. Brothers and both sons of a Titan. Both hot guys are soul mates to Sam. But they themselves are two halves of the same soul, thus why Sam has two soul mates. Both boys are very different--a representation of "light and dark" to my reader eyes and imagination. And, fortunately, both guys are very well developed characters. I see similarities but also very unique characteristics that draw me to Marcus and Nicolas respectively.
I think Marcus is my favorite---because he never contradicted himself!
Nick was the cool bad boy, doesn't like that he's being "used" for this prophecy and wants a way out. But, like Sam, he contradicts himself. He is drawn to and dreams of Sam, is lustful for her in their dreams, then bam some other chick seems to appear from his past and he's all about she was his one true love. Very confusing. I actually had to set the book down just after this because I was getting bored and confused.
Clearly, I did pick it back up, and I'm glad I did.
Julie is another character important to the story. She's Sam's bestie and also "soul sister" to Marc and Nick (though only in the dream parts of the book). She was a pretty cool character over all, along with her brother who was a third tier character.
I said earlier L.A. took the legend of Prometheus and changed it, which I love, but getting all this new information to the reader, and making sure it was clear and understandable.....I think I remember it taking almost 4 chapters. That's a lot of unneeded information for me, plus it kept hopping POV's and that broke up what could have been a very nice flow. I was tempted to set it down again, but I mad myself continue on. Once we got past the info dump, a bit more than half of the way through the book, the story started to come alive for me; and Sam finally meets the boys in person and learns about her part of the prophecy dealio.
The relationships between all the characters is really enjoyable, on all levels. The main characters are easy to relate to, even if you did not have to go through what Sam did with being adopted.
WARNING: DECIEVED stops off at a very interesting place, though not in a good way for me. It felt like we stopped on a chapter and the rest of the book didn't download. Know what I mean?
It wasn't horrible, but just felt very cut off with a lot still left unresolved.
Overall I liked this book well enough, I am even planning on reading the ARC of the second book L.A. so graciously sent with the copy of the first book, but it is one that does not have top priority for me because of my issues above. I will read it, because I want to know what happens, just not right away. DECEIVED hasn't totally hooked me on a new addiction.....yet. Who know what the second book might bring.
~Dynomoon
December 2, 2014
Sam is a relatively normal teenager at highschool, she is well-practised at keeping people at a distance and getting on with life. But the fates have something bigger planned.
Ok, I'm not quite sure what just happened...
I've been looking forward to getting time to read this book for a while, the synopsis was interesting, and the book is on my #IndieBooksBeSeen reading list.
Ok, how to explain. Deceived is made up of every YA cliche.
Love triangle - check.
Ordinary girl - check.
Every guy fawning over our heroine - check.
Mean girls - check.
Ordinary girl finds out she's special - check.
BUT I loved it.
Starkey has written something that revels in the above list, almost tongue-in-cheek at points. The characters all have depth, and I found myself laughing at some of the interactions (and Sam's awesome internal monologue). Then a moment later you're tearing up over one issue or another.
I couldn't believe it when the 500 pages flew by. I still can't quite get my head around how Starkey made this very sizeable book and part one of her Soul Keeper Series so absorbing and entertaining; especially when you consider that the main characters don't even meet until the end. This only follows their separate paths as the threads of their lives are brought together.
Sam is our heroine. She hates being called Samantha, because it reminds her too much of the foster system she was brought up in. Luckily, she has been adopted by a nice family, and she lives close enough to her best friend Julie. Julie is the only person that Sam allows in. Everyone else has to be kept at arm's length, because it's safer not to get attached.
Sam is not one of your helpless, self-effacing heroines. She is beautiful, and she doesn't spend the whole time pretending she's not (which is so very annoying in all those stories where all the guys fall for a girl who is pretty but doesn't know/accept it), she doesn't rub it in either, Sam basically ignores it and gets on with her day.
She is also a basketball player - a good one. Sam has no delusions about her ability, she trains hard and she wants to win.
There is also an internal monologue that I mentioned earlier. I wasn't sure about it to start with, I wasn't sure whether it was entirely necessary and, let's be honest, I'm still scarred from the 50 Shades of Grey "inner goddess" crap. But it was actually really entertaining once you got used to it. I suppose I could call it a dialogue, as it was like an whole extra character inside Sam's head.
The other characters in her normal high school life were all good. Best friend Julie plays a very important role, and plays it well.
I really liked Julie's brother, Brent, and I hope he gets his say in the rest of the series.
Marcus and Nick are immortal brothers descended from the Greek gods. They have been sent to earth to await a prophecy. They have no idea what the prophecy will involve, only that it has been the will of the gods.
They do know that in dreams, they are both drawn to Sam, as they have been over the centuries in the many reincarnations of her soul.
I didn't really connect with Marcus and Nick, but this book is really Sam's story, with them making up the background. I did feel sorry for their plight, that the two brothers' relationship was fractured years ago, and only made worse by the fact that they are both in love with Sam. They felt interchangeable, as they spent most their time chatting glumly with their uncles.
So an easy 5-star read, and I am looking forward to the next in the series!
Ok, I'm not quite sure what just happened...
I've been looking forward to getting time to read this book for a while, the synopsis was interesting, and the book is on my #IndieBooksBeSeen reading list.
Ok, how to explain. Deceived is made up of every YA cliche.
Love triangle - check.
Ordinary girl - check.
Every guy fawning over our heroine - check.
Mean girls - check.
Ordinary girl finds out she's special - check.
BUT I loved it.
Starkey has written something that revels in the above list, almost tongue-in-cheek at points. The characters all have depth, and I found myself laughing at some of the interactions (and Sam's awesome internal monologue). Then a moment later you're tearing up over one issue or another.
I couldn't believe it when the 500 pages flew by. I still can't quite get my head around how Starkey made this very sizeable book and part one of her Soul Keeper Series so absorbing and entertaining; especially when you consider that the main characters don't even meet until the end. This only follows their separate paths as the threads of their lives are brought together.
Sam is our heroine. She hates being called Samantha, because it reminds her too much of the foster system she was brought up in. Luckily, she has been adopted by a nice family, and she lives close enough to her best friend Julie. Julie is the only person that Sam allows in. Everyone else has to be kept at arm's length, because it's safer not to get attached.
Sam is not one of your helpless, self-effacing heroines. She is beautiful, and she doesn't spend the whole time pretending she's not (which is so very annoying in all those stories where all the guys fall for a girl who is pretty but doesn't know/accept it), she doesn't rub it in either, Sam basically ignores it and gets on with her day.
She is also a basketball player - a good one. Sam has no delusions about her ability, she trains hard and she wants to win.
There is also an internal monologue that I mentioned earlier. I wasn't sure about it to start with, I wasn't sure whether it was entirely necessary and, let's be honest, I'm still scarred from the 50 Shades of Grey "inner goddess" crap. But it was actually really entertaining once you got used to it. I suppose I could call it a dialogue, as it was like an whole extra character inside Sam's head.
The other characters in her normal high school life were all good. Best friend Julie plays a very important role, and plays it well.
I really liked Julie's brother, Brent, and I hope he gets his say in the rest of the series.
Marcus and Nick are immortal brothers descended from the Greek gods. They have been sent to earth to await a prophecy. They have no idea what the prophecy will involve, only that it has been the will of the gods.
They do know that in dreams, they are both drawn to Sam, as they have been over the centuries in the many reincarnations of her soul.
I didn't really connect with Marcus and Nick, but this book is really Sam's story, with them making up the background. I did feel sorry for their plight, that the two brothers' relationship was fractured years ago, and only made worse by the fact that they are both in love with Sam. They felt interchangeable, as they spent most their time chatting glumly with their uncles.
So an easy 5-star read, and I am looking forward to the next in the series!
August 27, 2024
DNF @ 28%
Deceived introduces readers to a modern-day love story that explores the complexities of having more than one soul mate. The intriguing premise of the book sets the stage for a tale where the decisions of gods impact the fate of their heirs.
Starkey's use of language is a double-edged sword in this novel. On one hand, her vivid descriptions and almost poetic creativity bring scenes to life with remarkable detail. On the other hand, this creativity often becomes excessive, hindering readability. The style suggests an author with a rich vocabulary and a plethora of ideas but lacking a clear sense of what is effective or when to exercise restraint.
One of the significant drawbacks of Deceived is its dialogue. Often, it feels forced and unnatural, with characters providing details in a way that real people simply do not. For example, a character remarks on a room's décor with an awkwardly detailed description that disrupts the flow of conversation. This tendency extends throughout the book, where characters abruptly switch topics seemingly at the author's whim, rather than through natural, inspired tangents.
Excessive exposition and detailed internal thoughts slow the pacing of the novel considerably. While some level of introspection is necessary, Deceived often indulges in it to the detriment of advancing the plot. This verbosity makes it challenging to maintain focus and absorb the scene effectively, ultimately making the reading experience laborious.
Despite the promising storyline, the execution falls short. The overly detailed narrative and stilted dialogue made it difficult to stay invested in the characters and their journey. By Chapter 4, I found myself struggling to continue and ultimately decided to stop reading at 28%.
In conclusion, while Deceived has an intriguing premise and moments of creativity, its execution leaves much to be desired. The cumbersome writing style, unnatural dialogue, and slow pacing overshadow the story's potential, making it a unenjoyable read. Unfortunately, these issues were significant enough for me to set the book aside and not pick it up again.
Deceived introduces readers to a modern-day love story that explores the complexities of having more than one soul mate. The intriguing premise of the book sets the stage for a tale where the decisions of gods impact the fate of their heirs.
Starkey's use of language is a double-edged sword in this novel. On one hand, her vivid descriptions and almost poetic creativity bring scenes to life with remarkable detail. On the other hand, this creativity often becomes excessive, hindering readability. The style suggests an author with a rich vocabulary and a plethora of ideas but lacking a clear sense of what is effective or when to exercise restraint.
One of the significant drawbacks of Deceived is its dialogue. Often, it feels forced and unnatural, with characters providing details in a way that real people simply do not. For example, a character remarks on a room's décor with an awkwardly detailed description that disrupts the flow of conversation. This tendency extends throughout the book, where characters abruptly switch topics seemingly at the author's whim, rather than through natural, inspired tangents.
Excessive exposition and detailed internal thoughts slow the pacing of the novel considerably. While some level of introspection is necessary, Deceived often indulges in it to the detriment of advancing the plot. This verbosity makes it challenging to maintain focus and absorb the scene effectively, ultimately making the reading experience laborious.
Despite the promising storyline, the execution falls short. The overly detailed narrative and stilted dialogue made it difficult to stay invested in the characters and their journey. By Chapter 4, I found myself struggling to continue and ultimately decided to stop reading at 28%.
In conclusion, while Deceived has an intriguing premise and moments of creativity, its execution leaves much to be desired. The cumbersome writing style, unnatural dialogue, and slow pacing overshadow the story's potential, making it a unenjoyable read. Unfortunately, these issues were significant enough for me to set the book aside and not pick it up again.
February 1, 2015
I don't know what I expected when I signed up for this blog tour. I heard this was a cool series but I didn't know anything except what was in the blurb. Well, let me tell you I think I'm hooked, I am dying to know what's gunna happen, and yes I have totally picked a team and I will be devastated if something happens to him LOL Yes, it's a YA story, but boy is it serious, so don't think you won't enjoy it if you aren't an adult. And the whole Greek Pantheon, well I love and hate most of them. I have decided Poseidon, Themis, Persephone, a few Titans I won't name, and the lovely Fates are the only good ones. Zeus, Aphrodite, several others, hot damn, they are some spiteful kids. The writing is fantastic and that alone should have you jumping for this book. The plot of this story is one that still blows my mind a little bit so I am still in shock and I STILL don't know how it's gunna turn out. I know, I've read the first two books. So let's talk characters.
Sam is a girl who was adopted by a nice family after spending her life in an orphanage. She still has her best friend from the orphanage, who was adopted by a different family, but they are like sisters. But she won't let anyone close. She knows that if her own mom could abandon her, then everyone else is just going to leave her too. If she doesn't let them get close, they can't hurt her. And that's a whole lot harder than it seems. And some strange things happen, like she has these vivid dreams that leave her feeling things she doesn't understand because she can't remember her dreams or who were with her in them. And just when she's getting a steady stream, her life is devastatingly changed, and I understand her feelings. She lost the one person she always relied on. And then two gorgeous young men appear and she is trying to unravel her whole life worth of mysteries while trying to not fall in love with not one, but two, who seem to be twin brothers, and not think of the best friend she lost.
I won't talk about the boys, because I think you need to read the story and pick your own team. You're going to learn that both have good and bad sides. You're going to learn that they feel the same, just different, and you're going to learn WHY that is. :) So, yes, I have a team, and I am rooting for him, because he's awesome. And no, I will not say who. LOL
The mysteries and plot surrounding this damn prophecy, I wanna slap everyone. Seriously, you can't talk about it, you can't tell anyone, you can't even give knowledge to the one it's about. How ridiculous. AND it's all over a really stupid fight that Zeus is just too damn jealous and stubborn to admit he's wrong. WEH. The thought process behind this is crazy, but I can't help it, I am sooo hooked, because I NEED to know what's gunna happen! AND let me warn you- A BIG WARNING. If you get book one, just get book two, because you are going to scream with the cliff hanger and you can't get your hands on book two asap. Like I did. And I had book two, but I still said some curse words LOL. I know a lot of people don't like cliff hangers. I say they kill me but I know why it's done :) Anyways, I am saying get this one, it's awesome. 5 PAWS!!
Sam is a girl who was adopted by a nice family after spending her life in an orphanage. She still has her best friend from the orphanage, who was adopted by a different family, but they are like sisters. But she won't let anyone close. She knows that if her own mom could abandon her, then everyone else is just going to leave her too. If she doesn't let them get close, they can't hurt her. And that's a whole lot harder than it seems. And some strange things happen, like she has these vivid dreams that leave her feeling things she doesn't understand because she can't remember her dreams or who were with her in them. And just when she's getting a steady stream, her life is devastatingly changed, and I understand her feelings. She lost the one person she always relied on. And then two gorgeous young men appear and she is trying to unravel her whole life worth of mysteries while trying to not fall in love with not one, but two, who seem to be twin brothers, and not think of the best friend she lost.
I won't talk about the boys, because I think you need to read the story and pick your own team. You're going to learn that both have good and bad sides. You're going to learn that they feel the same, just different, and you're going to learn WHY that is. :) So, yes, I have a team, and I am rooting for him, because he's awesome. And no, I will not say who. LOL
The mysteries and plot surrounding this damn prophecy, I wanna slap everyone. Seriously, you can't talk about it, you can't tell anyone, you can't even give knowledge to the one it's about. How ridiculous. AND it's all over a really stupid fight that Zeus is just too damn jealous and stubborn to admit he's wrong. WEH. The thought process behind this is crazy, but I can't help it, I am sooo hooked, because I NEED to know what's gunna happen! AND let me warn you- A BIG WARNING. If you get book one, just get book two, because you are going to scream with the cliff hanger and you can't get your hands on book two asap. Like I did. And I had book two, but I still said some curse words LOL. I know a lot of people don't like cliff hangers. I say they kill me but I know why it's done :) Anyways, I am saying get this one, it's awesome. 5 PAWS!!
December 4, 2014
I bought Deceived by LA Starkey because it was recommended by a book club of which I am a member. I discovered only after I started reading it that it was a fantasy story for young adults. There is nothing wrong with that except that I am far from being a young adult and my tastes do not normally run to fantasy. That said, I am obliged, in fairness, to ask myself one significant question before I attempt to write a review. Did the author succeed in doing what she set out to do? In this case, the answer has to be a resounding ‘YES’.
L.A Starkey is blessed with writing talent, a mind full of knowledge to fall back on and a gifted imagination. I can easily conjecture that teenagers everywhere would be swooning over the story of Samantha and her two dream lovers, Marcus and Nicholas. Add a prophecy that remains a mystery throughout the story, a titanic struggle among the Gods on Mount Olympus, teenagers who are, in fact, several hundred years old and the story becomes ever more fascinating.
There are times when, even though a reviewer would never willingly read a specific genre, pleasant surprises are possible. When the writing is of good quality, the story well told and the themes cleverly exploited, pretty much anyone who enjoys reading will find their interest held. And so it was for me with Deceived. The characters are well developed and their interaction kept me hooked, particularly as the eternal question that attaches to the eternal triangle was tantalisingly posed with the answer seemingly, but never actually, within a moment’s reach: Which one will she choose?
I do have one or two niggles, however. I have reservations about allowing slangy modern dialogue to emit from the mouth of the mighty Zeus, God of Olympus, especially words like ‘half-assed’ and ‘crap’. This callow language somehow diminishes his aura. Nor do I believe this fearsome Olympian would ‘…jump three feet in the air’ because he didn’t hear his daughter coming up behind him.
But my biggest niggle is the fact that the book doesn’t have an ending. It just stops. If you want to read the next chapter, you have to go out and buy another book. This is a trend that is becoming more prevalent lately among indie writers and I have to confess I do not like it. A novel should be complete in itself, even if there is to be a sequel. I do not know of any of the greats, or any well-known current writers, who engage in this form of…is it cheating? All I know is that I was looking forward to having the loose-ends tied up, the prophecy revealed, the choice made by the soul-keeper…issues I believe the writer was obliged to deal with…but I was doomed to disappointment. I have to be honest and say that the ending, or rather, the lack of an ending, left me with a bad taste in my mouth. I might go so far to say that I was, as the title suggests, 'Deceived'.
Nonetheless, my own predilections do not really matter. This is an excellent example of the fantasy genre and young readers will doubtless be enthralled by Sam's adventures and the huge Olympian canvas against which they are played out.
L.A Starkey is blessed with writing talent, a mind full of knowledge to fall back on and a gifted imagination. I can easily conjecture that teenagers everywhere would be swooning over the story of Samantha and her two dream lovers, Marcus and Nicholas. Add a prophecy that remains a mystery throughout the story, a titanic struggle among the Gods on Mount Olympus, teenagers who are, in fact, several hundred years old and the story becomes ever more fascinating.
There are times when, even though a reviewer would never willingly read a specific genre, pleasant surprises are possible. When the writing is of good quality, the story well told and the themes cleverly exploited, pretty much anyone who enjoys reading will find their interest held. And so it was for me with Deceived. The characters are well developed and their interaction kept me hooked, particularly as the eternal question that attaches to the eternal triangle was tantalisingly posed with the answer seemingly, but never actually, within a moment’s reach: Which one will she choose?
I do have one or two niggles, however. I have reservations about allowing slangy modern dialogue to emit from the mouth of the mighty Zeus, God of Olympus, especially words like ‘half-assed’ and ‘crap’. This callow language somehow diminishes his aura. Nor do I believe this fearsome Olympian would ‘…jump three feet in the air’ because he didn’t hear his daughter coming up behind him.
But my biggest niggle is the fact that the book doesn’t have an ending. It just stops. If you want to read the next chapter, you have to go out and buy another book. This is a trend that is becoming more prevalent lately among indie writers and I have to confess I do not like it. A novel should be complete in itself, even if there is to be a sequel. I do not know of any of the greats, or any well-known current writers, who engage in this form of…is it cheating? All I know is that I was looking forward to having the loose-ends tied up, the prophecy revealed, the choice made by the soul-keeper…issues I believe the writer was obliged to deal with…but I was doomed to disappointment. I have to be honest and say that the ending, or rather, the lack of an ending, left me with a bad taste in my mouth. I might go so far to say that I was, as the title suggests, 'Deceived'.
Nonetheless, my own predilections do not really matter. This is an excellent example of the fantasy genre and young readers will doubtless be enthralled by Sam's adventures and the huge Olympian canvas against which they are played out.
May 1, 2016
ARC kindly provided by Patchwork Press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Review
Rating Plan
1 star : Strongly did not like the book, writing and plot was bad. Idea of the book was against my liking.
2 star : Didn't like it, didn't find it interesting or gripping. Seemed to drag on to me.
3 star : An average book. Wasn't bad or good. Everything else was well done. Original idea.
4 star : Like a 3 star but has potential to it as a series or the book grew on me as it progressed and certain scenes captured me. I Enjoyed it and read it in one sitting.
5 star : I LOVED IT! I stayed up late until 3 am. Author is a genius, characters, plot, idea, development, EVERYTHING was EXCELLENT. Nothing else can possibly be said except that its 5 STAR!
Review
This book captured me from the very beginning. When I first started reading, I expected some kind of love triangle drama - but no...it's more than that. Deceived spins a tale about the victims of fate and destiny, as well as deceit, power and love. It spins and spirals in and out sung multiple perspectives as well as dreams which the main character has to create a canvas on which everything is stitched. What I loved about this book is the inclusion of Prometheus, Greek father of mankind. You also get to hear more about the three Fates or the Moirai. It is a great romance read, but could leave room for some improvement. For example, their were a couple of spelling mistakes and the book was just a whole introduction to the story with only the last quarter of the book with real action and progress, but I guess the whole introduction is what made it so compelling. But over all this book deserved the 4 star I have it and their is always room for improvement as this book is a series. May I mention that I absolutely want to finish this series? If I were given any more arc for this series I would devour them. Congratulations to L. A. Starkey for publishing a compelling read!
Rating Plan
1 star : Strongly did not like the book, writing and plot was bad. Idea of the book was against my liking.
2 star : Didn't like it, didn't find it interesting or gripping. Seemed to drag on to me.
3 star : An average book. Wasn't bad or good. Everything else was well done. Original idea.
4 star : Like a 3 star but has potential to it as a series or the book grew on me as it progressed and certain scenes captured me. I Enjoyed it and read it in one sitting.
5 star : I LOVED IT! I stayed up late until 3 am. Author is a genius, characters, plot, idea, development, EVERYTHING was EXCELLENT. Nothing else can possibly be said except that its 5 STAR!
November 13, 2014
Samantha is unaware that she is standing at the edge of life as she knows it. Her whole world is about to change in unimaginable ways. Abandoned at birth and raised in an orphanage prior to being adopted as a pre-teen, she has built strong walls around her heart in an effort to protect herself from further pain. Life has only brought her disappointment up to this point but in order to fulfill her destiny, she is going to have to make difficult choices and be willing to risk the pain of opening her heart.
This is a difficult book to review without spoiling the reading experience because it is a complex story with multiple characters. L.A. Starkey does an excellent job cycling through the various perspectives and telling each story in a way that makes the overall timeline understandable.
This is book one, so prepare yourself for a lot of questions left unanswered and a bit of a cliff hanger that leaves searching for more. Fortunately, Destroyed is scheduled to be published on November 14th, 2014 so you won't have long to wait. Don't be overwhelmed by the length... it's worth it in the end!
I loved that this book is heavy on the drama and suspense, with Greek mythology, paranormal elements and contemporary romance all blended together. DECEIVED is a unique story with precise attention paid to detail and a strong build up into the rest of the series.
My OFFICIAL REVIEW written for Carly's Book Reviews
This is a difficult book to review without spoiling the reading experience because it is a complex story with multiple characters. L.A. Starkey does an excellent job cycling through the various perspectives and telling each story in a way that makes the overall timeline understandable.
This is book one, so prepare yourself for a lot of questions left unanswered and a bit of a cliff hanger that leaves searching for more. Fortunately, Destroyed is scheduled to be published on November 14th, 2014 so you won't have long to wait. Don't be overwhelmed by the length... it's worth it in the end!
I loved that this book is heavy on the drama and suspense, with Greek mythology, paranormal elements and contemporary romance all blended together. DECEIVED is a unique story with precise attention paid to detail and a strong build up into the rest of the series.
My OFFICIAL REVIEW written for Carly's Book Reviews
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