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Valid Deception
You would never think that one person, one betrayal, one poor judgment of character could lead to a whirlwind of life-changing events….
Stevie Hampton grabbed her life by the horns at the young age of 25. She worked her way up in her career, had a place to call her own, and had a casual boyfriend, Craig Mundy, who was a SWAT team member in Ocean County, NJ. They had one sure thing in common: both were career driven with barely a personal life.
What Stevie didn’t expect was for Craig to disappear without a word for three days—with no returned calls, no explanation and nothing adding up. Stevie knew one person who would have answers—Austin Kurt, Craig’s partner. The two were inseparable.
But when Stevie unexpectedly sees Austin waiting for her in an empty parking garage, her life suddenly takes a sharp turn and within seconds she’s unconscious. She wakes up with endless questions – like why her life was now literally in the hands of Austin? And what part did Craig play in this disaster?
In a relentless fight to clear up the misunderstanding, harbored feelings grow and fester between Stevie and Austin. Both are blindsided by the hidden connections between them.
Events tested them.
People tested them.
Life tested them.
Stevie is the beauty but is Austin really a beast? Knowing the truth is the only way to set them free, but when the truth comes out can they get past all the mixed feelings and the damage that’s already been done?
**Author's note – this is a full-length standalone novel. Due to strong language and sexual content, this book is not intended for readers under the age of 18.
Stevie Hampton grabbed her life by the horns at the young age of 25. She worked her way up in her career, had a place to call her own, and had a casual boyfriend, Craig Mundy, who was a SWAT team member in Ocean County, NJ. They had one sure thing in common: both were career driven with barely a personal life.
What Stevie didn’t expect was for Craig to disappear without a word for three days—with no returned calls, no explanation and nothing adding up. Stevie knew one person who would have answers—Austin Kurt, Craig’s partner. The two were inseparable.
But when Stevie unexpectedly sees Austin waiting for her in an empty parking garage, her life suddenly takes a sharp turn and within seconds she’s unconscious. She wakes up with endless questions – like why her life was now literally in the hands of Austin? And what part did Craig play in this disaster?
In a relentless fight to clear up the misunderstanding, harbored feelings grow and fester between Stevie and Austin. Both are blindsided by the hidden connections between them.
Events tested them.
People tested them.
Life tested them.
Stevie is the beauty but is Austin really a beast? Knowing the truth is the only way to set them free, but when the truth comes out can they get past all the mixed feelings and the damage that’s already been done?
**Author's note – this is a full-length standalone novel. Due to strong language and sexual content, this book is not intended for readers under the age of 18.
356 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 1, 2015
1 person is currently reading
86 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Pfister
1 book9 followersJennifer Pfister is a writer living in Sussex County, NJ with her husband, two kids and one dog. Her journey started when she was a young child. She would swing on her tree swing for hours imagining stories in her head like they were happening in front of her. She always told her family, “I will write a movie script or a book one day.”
Originally, her plan was to write movie scripts. But, after high school she discovered Nicholas Sparks and decided to turn the movie in her head into a novel. With 15 years of ideas and hundreds of scattered papers, to a big bin filled with “writing stuff,” containing how-to books on writing fiction and movie scripts, packs of white lined paper, five printed movie scripts to study (The Notebook, Days of Thunder, The Cutting Edge, The Departed, Sweet Home Alabama), Final Draft Software, dozens of mechanical pencils, erasers and lead refills. Her favorite food is an everything bagel with cream cheese that she could eat for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Pandora radio is always playing somewhere in her home.
Valid Deception is her first novel published in July 2015 but she plans to write many more.
Originally, her plan was to write movie scripts. But, after high school she discovered Nicholas Sparks and decided to turn the movie in her head into a novel. With 15 years of ideas and hundreds of scattered papers, to a big bin filled with “writing stuff,” containing how-to books on writing fiction and movie scripts, packs of white lined paper, five printed movie scripts to study (The Notebook, Days of Thunder, The Cutting Edge, The Departed, Sweet Home Alabama), Final Draft Software, dozens of mechanical pencils, erasers and lead refills. Her favorite food is an everything bagel with cream cheese that she could eat for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Pandora radio is always playing somewhere in her home.
Valid Deception is her first novel published in July 2015 but she plans to write many more.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
July 26, 2015
༺**Complimentary Copy**༺ Provided by the author "Jennifer Pfister" in exchange for an honest review..Thank you!!
TITLE: Valid Deception
AUTHOR: Jennifer Pfister
GENRE: Contemporary Romance
RELEASE DATE: July 24th, 2015
MY RATING: 4 STARS
STEVIE & AUSTIN (ABOVE)
Not sure why with this being the authors first new release it was FREE ON AMAZON because this book exceeded my expectations, it kept me intrigued all the way through to see what the hell was going to happen next, not once did I get bored with the story line and the writing is very good.
I liked this authors writing style, easy to get drawn into the storyline..A nice flow to it..
The friendship dynamics with the three characters is borderline confusing..This is where the story could've been more clearer, (this is only my opinion) in the beginning nothing really gave much away about Craig and that kind of carried all the way through to the end..We don't connect with him at all, all that connection is focused on Austin..I got that they were three friends but in hindsight they weren't really..And that's what you come away with as soon as you get into the book..
The relationship or lack there of between her and Craig is odd, like neither seem to be really committed to the other and yet she seems overly fixated on Austin the best friend..
We were more in it to have fun, never thinking it would lead to anything further. I’m not sure either of us saw a real future. I’m not so sure I wanted a future with him.
Neither of us wanted to take the relationship to the next level.
Then three days with no communication, messages left un returned calls
Well shit I never saw that twist coming at me..Just when I was wondering what had died up her boyfriends ass with the lack of communication the author throws a curve ball..
Double shit wtf
His hand went to a pressure point on my neck so quickly, I didn’t have time to defend myself. And that was it—blackness took over…
Holy shit. He came at me and knocked me out.
Hopefully now the story starts to get gritty
Let’s clear one thing up—you run, you say anything to anyone—give any indication of what’s going on and I’ll find your family and friends and kill them one by one. Do you hear me?
TITLE: Valid Deception
AUTHOR: Jennifer Pfister
GENRE: Contemporary Romance
RELEASE DATE: July 24th, 2015
MY RATING: 4 STARS
STEVIE & AUSTIN (ABOVE)
Not sure why with this being the authors first new release it was FREE ON AMAZON because this book exceeded my expectations, it kept me intrigued all the way through to see what the hell was going to happen next, not once did I get bored with the story line and the writing is very good.
I liked this authors writing style, easy to get drawn into the storyline..A nice flow to it..
The friendship dynamics with the three characters is borderline confusing..This is where the story could've been more clearer, (this is only my opinion) in the beginning nothing really gave much away about Craig and that kind of carried all the way through to the end..We don't connect with him at all, all that connection is focused on Austin..I got that they were three friends but in hindsight they weren't really..And that's what you come away with as soon as you get into the book..
The relationship or lack there of between her and Craig is odd, like neither seem to be really committed to the other and yet she seems overly fixated on Austin the best friend..
We were more in it to have fun, never thinking it would lead to anything further. I’m not sure either of us saw a real future. I’m not so sure I wanted a future with him.
Neither of us wanted to take the relationship to the next level.
Then three days with no communication, messages left un returned calls
Well shit I never saw that twist coming at me..Just when I was wondering what had died up her boyfriends ass with the lack of communication the author throws a curve ball..
Double shit wtf
His hand went to a pressure point on my neck so quickly, I didn’t have time to defend myself. And that was it—blackness took over…
Holy shit. He came at me and knocked me out.
Hopefully now the story starts to get gritty
Let’s clear one thing up—you run, you say anything to anyone—give any indication of what’s going on and I’ll find your family and friends and kill them one by one. Do you hear me?
September 7, 2015
“We were in it to have fun, never thinking it would lead to anything further.”
Stevie Hampton, a 25-year-old hair stylist from New Jersey, was all about her career. She worked hard for the success she was realizing, maybe even too hard. She had her own place, she had a devoted following of clientele and she had a contract to do hair and makeup for a major modeling agency’s photo shoots. She was at the top of her game, and a relationship, friendships and even family fell by the wayside as she pursued her career. She did, however, have a very, very casual, likeminded boyfriend, and they both knew the score – their careers always came first.
“Our relationship never felt pressing that we had to see each other every single day.”
Craig Mundy, a NJ based SWAT officer, served Stevie’s purposes as she did his. Their no-pressure, no expectations relationship was easy, even if Craig was a bit self-centered and quirky. She had a friend in Craig’s partner, Austin Kurt, whom she secretly crushed on. She thought she had everything she wanted, until one night during a work party of Craig’s when she sensed Austin’s attraction to her, and she realized that it was definitely reciprocated. Following the party, she didn’t hear from Craig for days, not all that unusual for them, but it was longer than they normally went without contact. The separation had Stevie questioning their whole relationship and coming to the realization that the relationship, and Craig in particular, wasn’t what she wanted. If she could only track Craig down to talk to him about it…
“What did I ever do to him? What was going on?”
While out with her coworkers for a girl’s night, Stevie is surprised in the parking garage as she is heading home for the night by Austin. Knocked unconscious, Stevie comes to with a pounding headache in a cold room she doesn’t recognize and unable to recall what had happened. She learns that her captor is none other than Austin, and he is positively furious with her for reasons she does not understand. Delivering terrifying threats that she believes he could – and would – easily carry through, Austin forces her to leave everything – her home, her family and friends, her career – behind so that he can take his revenge on her for her role in a betrayal Austin believes was perpetrated against him by Craig and Stevie. Stevie has no idea what is going on, but Austin does not believe her
“He took my life in his hand, looked at it, and threw it to the ground shattering it into a million pieces.”
Weeks go by, and Stevie is no closer to figuring out what happened and why exactly Austin kidnapped her. All she knows is that he believes that she and Craig somehow betrayed him. He will not discuss it with her, despite her repeated attempts. The only thing that is changing – and very, very slowly at that – is their relationship. Sometimes she thinks she sees a hint of doubt in Austin’s normally cold and shuttered eyes, only for it to be gone just as quickly. She occasionally see flashes of the Austin she thought she knew, but then he’s gone and the cold, remote and harsh person is become snaps back into place. She is sinking further and further into an anxious depression, and yet, she cannot help the attraction she feels towards him. It was there even before this situation.
“This felt less like a kidnapping and more like a forced situation just waiting to be figured out.”
Austin assimilates Stevie into his life with the cover story of being his girlfriend. Publicly, they are a normal, albeit unaffectionate, couple. At home, it’s awkward avoidance as they spend their days going about life separately. Stevie has free reign, she can come and go as she pleases, and she does, involving herself in the community and befriending the girlfriends of Austin’s two best friends. Stevie can sense Austin’s turmoil, his doubts and his attraction to her. She questions him constantly to find out if he’s heard anything that will exonerate her in his eyes, and all the while, her feelings for him are deepening. While she is still upset at the havoc Austin’s revenge has wreaked upon her life, she can understand why he did it.
What will happen when the truth comes out? Where do they go from here?
********************************
There were parts of this book that I really, really liked. The premise is a good one – it’s a totally fresh plot line and it definitely intrigued me. I think that some of the way that this plot played out was fantastic. But there were other plot points that just didn’t work well, and I struggled through those areas. Parts of the book flowed very easily, building up the anticipation to what I hoped would be a great pay off. But that never really happened, and in some areas, it got to be very repetitious, dragging this big mystery on and on. My biggest issue, however, was with the ending. There was all this build up leading to this huge make or break, long-time-coming type of moment for them and their relationship, and it wound up being a couple of paragraphs of a very glossed over sex scene (the only one in the book) with a few lines of dialogue including declarations of love that segued right into a six month flash forward of the take down of the real villain behind all of this. Stevie’s confrontation with Craig at the end was disappointing, and the entire ending of the book felt like it just came to a screeching halt. All that build up didn’t really lead to anything, and it was very surprising.
This book held a lot of promise, and parts of it were really good. I think with perhaps a more seasoned team of beta readers giving honest, constructive feedback to this debut author on where it was going wrong, it could have been really great. For me, though, it was a mixed bag. 3.5 Smooches for a great plot idea, though!
~ Danielle Palumbo
Stevie Hampton, a 25-year-old hair stylist from New Jersey, was all about her career. She worked hard for the success she was realizing, maybe even too hard. She had her own place, she had a devoted following of clientele and she had a contract to do hair and makeup for a major modeling agency’s photo shoots. She was at the top of her game, and a relationship, friendships and even family fell by the wayside as she pursued her career. She did, however, have a very, very casual, likeminded boyfriend, and they both knew the score – their careers always came first.
“Our relationship never felt pressing that we had to see each other every single day.”
Craig Mundy, a NJ based SWAT officer, served Stevie’s purposes as she did his. Their no-pressure, no expectations relationship was easy, even if Craig was a bit self-centered and quirky. She had a friend in Craig’s partner, Austin Kurt, whom she secretly crushed on. She thought she had everything she wanted, until one night during a work party of Craig’s when she sensed Austin’s attraction to her, and she realized that it was definitely reciprocated. Following the party, she didn’t hear from Craig for days, not all that unusual for them, but it was longer than they normally went without contact. The separation had Stevie questioning their whole relationship and coming to the realization that the relationship, and Craig in particular, wasn’t what she wanted. If she could only track Craig down to talk to him about it…
“What did I ever do to him? What was going on?”
While out with her coworkers for a girl’s night, Stevie is surprised in the parking garage as she is heading home for the night by Austin. Knocked unconscious, Stevie comes to with a pounding headache in a cold room she doesn’t recognize and unable to recall what had happened. She learns that her captor is none other than Austin, and he is positively furious with her for reasons she does not understand. Delivering terrifying threats that she believes he could – and would – easily carry through, Austin forces her to leave everything – her home, her family and friends, her career – behind so that he can take his revenge on her for her role in a betrayal Austin believes was perpetrated against him by Craig and Stevie. Stevie has no idea what is going on, but Austin does not believe her
“He took my life in his hand, looked at it, and threw it to the ground shattering it into a million pieces.”
Weeks go by, and Stevie is no closer to figuring out what happened and why exactly Austin kidnapped her. All she knows is that he believes that she and Craig somehow betrayed him. He will not discuss it with her, despite her repeated attempts. The only thing that is changing – and very, very slowly at that – is their relationship. Sometimes she thinks she sees a hint of doubt in Austin’s normally cold and shuttered eyes, only for it to be gone just as quickly. She occasionally see flashes of the Austin she thought she knew, but then he’s gone and the cold, remote and harsh person is become snaps back into place. She is sinking further and further into an anxious depression, and yet, she cannot help the attraction she feels towards him. It was there even before this situation.
“This felt less like a kidnapping and more like a forced situation just waiting to be figured out.”
Austin assimilates Stevie into his life with the cover story of being his girlfriend. Publicly, they are a normal, albeit unaffectionate, couple. At home, it’s awkward avoidance as they spend their days going about life separately. Stevie has free reign, she can come and go as she pleases, and she does, involving herself in the community and befriending the girlfriends of Austin’s two best friends. Stevie can sense Austin’s turmoil, his doubts and his attraction to her. She questions him constantly to find out if he’s heard anything that will exonerate her in his eyes, and all the while, her feelings for him are deepening. While she is still upset at the havoc Austin’s revenge has wreaked upon her life, she can understand why he did it.
What will happen when the truth comes out? Where do they go from here?
********************************
There were parts of this book that I really, really liked. The premise is a good one – it’s a totally fresh plot line and it definitely intrigued me. I think that some of the way that this plot played out was fantastic. But there were other plot points that just didn’t work well, and I struggled through those areas. Parts of the book flowed very easily, building up the anticipation to what I hoped would be a great pay off. But that never really happened, and in some areas, it got to be very repetitious, dragging this big mystery on and on. My biggest issue, however, was with the ending. There was all this build up leading to this huge make or break, long-time-coming type of moment for them and their relationship, and it wound up being a couple of paragraphs of a very glossed over sex scene (the only one in the book) with a few lines of dialogue including declarations of love that segued right into a six month flash forward of the take down of the real villain behind all of this. Stevie’s confrontation with Craig at the end was disappointing, and the entire ending of the book felt like it just came to a screeching halt. All that build up didn’t really lead to anything, and it was very surprising.
This book held a lot of promise, and parts of it were really good. I think with perhaps a more seasoned team of beta readers giving honest, constructive feedback to this debut author on where it was going wrong, it could have been really great. For me, though, it was a mixed bag. 3.5 Smooches for a great plot idea, though!
~ Danielle Palumbo
July 29, 2015
I cannot believe this was your first book. Reading it felt like you had written hundreds. I loved it from the first chapter. Your writing flows so well that you get lost in the story. There were many times that I was reading and lost track of time. For me that is unheard of because usually I have a hundred things going through my head at a time. I'm sure many of you out there can relate if you have kids:)
This story was great. But I must say that from the beginning I didn't like Craig. I thought he was a jerk! He didn't care about anyone but himself. And the way he treated Stevie, Oh My! Now Austin, there's a man. Loved his character and how he progressed through the book. He does have a lot of baggage, but hey who doesn't? I liked how his character was able to fight his demons. Did he find what he was really looking for and did he really beat his demons?? You'll have to read to find out, no spoilers.
Stevie was also a great character. The trouble between her and Craig, her sister,and Austin was an adventure. She has so many problems from the start with Craig and her family I felt sorry for her throughout the book. You will find that she and Austin have an attraction from the very beginning but both are fighting it. Then everything falls apart when Stevie gets kidnapped. From this point on in the book you had me hooked. I thought the pages were going to catch fire from all the chemistry.
Reading this book makes you want more. One of the parts to your writing that I loved was how there would be something that occurred and in the next paragraph you would explain what really happened to the character and why. It all just flowed. I would recommend this book to everyone who wants a suspenseful adventure and love story all in one. Keep writing.
This story was great. But I must say that from the beginning I didn't like Craig. I thought he was a jerk! He didn't care about anyone but himself. And the way he treated Stevie, Oh My! Now Austin, there's a man. Loved his character and how he progressed through the book. He does have a lot of baggage, but hey who doesn't? I liked how his character was able to fight his demons. Did he find what he was really looking for and did he really beat his demons?? You'll have to read to find out, no spoilers.
Stevie was also a great character. The trouble between her and Craig, her sister,and Austin was an adventure. She has so many problems from the start with Craig and her family I felt sorry for her throughout the book. You will find that she and Austin have an attraction from the very beginning but both are fighting it. Then everything falls apart when Stevie gets kidnapped. From this point on in the book you had me hooked. I thought the pages were going to catch fire from all the chemistry.
Reading this book makes you want more. One of the parts to your writing that I loved was how there would be something that occurred and in the next paragraph you would explain what really happened to the character and why. It all just flowed. I would recommend this book to everyone who wants a suspenseful adventure and love story all in one. Keep writing.
July 26, 2015
Tough read
This was a tough book to get thru. The premise had promise, but my goodness was it ridiculous. It felt slow but rushed at same time. I feel like author just wanted to quickly finish book, I had no investment in any character.
This was a tough book to get thru. The premise had promise, but my goodness was it ridiculous. It felt slow but rushed at same time. I feel like author just wanted to quickly finish book, I had no investment in any character.
March 20, 2018
Captivating Story
In the beginning, I had my doubts about where the plot was going, but as things developed I was definitely captivated by every unexpected development. While some parts felt a little repetitive, the core story kept me reading. During every chapter I caught myself saying either, "Wait, what?! No way! Now what will happen?"
I do recommend this book for a very interesting and exciting turn of events. I'm looking forward to the author's next novel to see what other stories she has to share. :)
In the beginning, I had my doubts about where the plot was going, but as things developed I was definitely captivated by every unexpected development. While some parts felt a little repetitive, the core story kept me reading. During every chapter I caught myself saying either, "Wait, what?! No way! Now what will happen?"
I do recommend this book for a very interesting and exciting turn of events. I'm looking forward to the author's next novel to see what other stories she has to share. :)
August 27, 2015
I received a copy of this book for an honest review.
First let me say there is some violence in this so if you are not into that type of read then don't read this book. Sorry I had to say that.
Now lets get onto the book. Stevie and her boyfriend Craig I would say are not really boyfriend/girlfriend. I would say they were each other's booty call or the person you would call if you needed a favor. I say that because they both were so into their careers and not each other. The way Craig treated Stevie was just low. He wasn't the one to show affection in public. He withdrew from her the minute he was around anyone but Austin. It seemed Stevie wanted that affection though but never spoke up about it. They had their times where their relationship took a turn especially when Stevie's mother and sister got in the mix.
Craig he will give you the creeps. Stevie doesn't want to admit it. However when her co workers ask her how her night out at the party went with Craig they all said the same thing. Give him up, he isn't right, he gives me the creeps. I mean come on if ladies who only seen him and met him once tell you that about your boyfriend, that is a BIG SIGN!!
Austin he is wow! The way he looks at Stevie, how he wants to be around her and Craig all the time. Austin comes from a messed up past though. His personal life is just that personal. Not to many people on his SWAT team know much about him. The way he talks with Stevie and touches her, makes her long for him. But BOOM!! One day all that is turned upside down, inside out and just a WTH kind of moment.
Austin he was set up before. Now he is going through it all again. How though? He has a feeling Stevie is all behind it. He takes her and demands her to leave her life behind. He says once things are figured out she can leave. How you going to do a 360 like that Austin? I mean loving and sweet, then hateful and dark. Austin isn't the only one who was set up. What would you do if your own sibling turned on you? Made it to where you couldn't move and were almost raped? I certainly wouldn't talk to them again.
There were parts where I was on the edge of my seat. OMG moments like no way. Some moments like "I knew it, I knew it" Then there were bittersweet moments.
This book is almost like a roller coaster ride. It takes you to the top then drops you right to the bottom. I thought Austin was bipolar and didn't know what he really wanted. I thought Steview as crazy for not actually trying to escape. Then there were those moments where you fell in love with Austin.
What exactly happened with Austin in his past? What did Stevie do? What in the world did her sister get her into? Does Austin and Stevie have a HEA?? You have to read this book to find out for yourself. I would recommend it completely.
First let me say there is some violence in this so if you are not into that type of read then don't read this book. Sorry I had to say that.
Now lets get onto the book. Stevie and her boyfriend Craig I would say are not really boyfriend/girlfriend. I would say they were each other's booty call or the person you would call if you needed a favor. I say that because they both were so into their careers and not each other. The way Craig treated Stevie was just low. He wasn't the one to show affection in public. He withdrew from her the minute he was around anyone but Austin. It seemed Stevie wanted that affection though but never spoke up about it. They had their times where their relationship took a turn especially when Stevie's mother and sister got in the mix.
Craig he will give you the creeps. Stevie doesn't want to admit it. However when her co workers ask her how her night out at the party went with Craig they all said the same thing. Give him up, he isn't right, he gives me the creeps. I mean come on if ladies who only seen him and met him once tell you that about your boyfriend, that is a BIG SIGN!!
Austin he is wow! The way he looks at Stevie, how he wants to be around her and Craig all the time. Austin comes from a messed up past though. His personal life is just that personal. Not to many people on his SWAT team know much about him. The way he talks with Stevie and touches her, makes her long for him. But BOOM!! One day all that is turned upside down, inside out and just a WTH kind of moment.
Austin he was set up before. Now he is going through it all again. How though? He has a feeling Stevie is all behind it. He takes her and demands her to leave her life behind. He says once things are figured out she can leave. How you going to do a 360 like that Austin? I mean loving and sweet, then hateful and dark. Austin isn't the only one who was set up. What would you do if your own sibling turned on you? Made it to where you couldn't move and were almost raped? I certainly wouldn't talk to them again.
There were parts where I was on the edge of my seat. OMG moments like no way. Some moments like "I knew it, I knew it" Then there were bittersweet moments.
This book is almost like a roller coaster ride. It takes you to the top then drops you right to the bottom. I thought Austin was bipolar and didn't know what he really wanted. I thought Steview as crazy for not actually trying to escape. Then there were those moments where you fell in love with Austin.
What exactly happened with Austin in his past? What did Stevie do? What in the world did her sister get her into? Does Austin and Stevie have a HEA?? You have to read this book to find out for yourself. I would recommend it completely.
August 2, 2015
I have to start this review by saying that I am giving this book 5* for three reasons
1. This is this authors debut novel and its one of the best debut novel's I have read
2. The story line
3. I can't wait to read to read more from her
This book is action packed and twists and turns keeps you on the edge of your seat. This is the main reason I read this in one sitting I just simply couldn't put the book down.
Stevie is 25 years old and has everything she wants due to the fact that she is very career driven. She has a career, a place call to home and friends with benefits with Craig. Craig is like Stevie career driven. Life couldn't be any better for Stevie.
Whilst your reading this book not only do you feel the characters emotions it actually feels like you can see inside their heads.
Craig mysteriously disappears off the face of the earth for 3 days without any explanation or a single phone call. This is where Austin comes into it as he's Craig's best friend and the two of them are inseparable so this may give Stevie the answers she needs.
Stevie's life takes a dramatic change when she arrives at a empty garage and Austin is waiting for her. Next thing Stevie is aware of is that she is waking up confused and has a lot of answers to the questions that is going around her head.
Is Austin really a beast and what has Craig have and what role did he play in all if this????'
Are Stevie and Austin truly prepared for when the truth comes out. How will It effect them afterwards??? And what happens to Craig????
You will have to read this book to find out.
1. This is this authors debut novel and its one of the best debut novel's I have read
2. The story line
3. I can't wait to read to read more from her
This book is action packed and twists and turns keeps you on the edge of your seat. This is the main reason I read this in one sitting I just simply couldn't put the book down.
Stevie is 25 years old and has everything she wants due to the fact that she is very career driven. She has a career, a place call to home and friends with benefits with Craig. Craig is like Stevie career driven. Life couldn't be any better for Stevie.
Whilst your reading this book not only do you feel the characters emotions it actually feels like you can see inside their heads.
Craig mysteriously disappears off the face of the earth for 3 days without any explanation or a single phone call. This is where Austin comes into it as he's Craig's best friend and the two of them are inseparable so this may give Stevie the answers she needs.
Stevie's life takes a dramatic change when she arrives at a empty garage and Austin is waiting for her. Next thing Stevie is aware of is that she is waking up confused and has a lot of answers to the questions that is going around her head.
Is Austin really a beast and what has Craig have and what role did he play in all if this????'
Are Stevie and Austin truly prepared for when the truth comes out. How will It effect them afterwards??? And what happens to Craig????
You will have to read this book to find out.
August 8, 2015
Without trust... there is no love.
I really enjoyed Jennifer's debut!! It was a different kind of romance, with love, hate, secrets, crime, crazy, angst, and fast race cars! Told from one point of view, with a few secrets the main character didn't know about thrown in. It made me want to know when they would be figured out. And now a bit about the story...
Stevie is a hair and make-up artist and has become so successful she has a contract with a modeling agency that keeps her chair filled when she isn't at a shoot. Craig is on the SWAT team, seems a little douchey, and is a just for now kind of boyfriend. Austin is Craig's partner on SWAT, handsome, charming, and always with a different woman. One problem for Stevie... Craig is her boyfriend, but she thinks about how it could all be different if Austin was her boyfriend. Then out of no where, Austin kidnaps Stevie and blames her for wrecking his career. As the weeks go by and he still hasn't done anything horrible she gets more and more confused. Can it be Stockholm syndrome when she wanted him before he ever kidnapped her????
Favorite passages
- In his mind, lack of punctuality was a sign that you didn’t respect yourself. In my mind, being late was a sign that well… shit happens.
- “No he’s mine. I’ll cut that bitch.”
- I could explore his scars I’d seen in passing. I closed my eyes tight. Those are not normal thoughts for someone who kidnapped me.
- I could grab him and never stop kissing him one minute and the next minute I didn’t even want to look at him.
I really enjoyed Jennifer's debut!! It was a different kind of romance, with love, hate, secrets, crime, crazy, angst, and fast race cars! Told from one point of view, with a few secrets the main character didn't know about thrown in. It made me want to know when they would be figured out. And now a bit about the story...
Stevie is a hair and make-up artist and has become so successful she has a contract with a modeling agency that keeps her chair filled when she isn't at a shoot. Craig is on the SWAT team, seems a little douchey, and is a just for now kind of boyfriend. Austin is Craig's partner on SWAT, handsome, charming, and always with a different woman. One problem for Stevie... Craig is her boyfriend, but she thinks about how it could all be different if Austin was her boyfriend. Then out of no where, Austin kidnaps Stevie and blames her for wrecking his career. As the weeks go by and he still hasn't done anything horrible she gets more and more confused. Can it be Stockholm syndrome when she wanted him before he ever kidnapped her????
Favorite passages
- In his mind, lack of punctuality was a sign that you didn’t respect yourself. In my mind, being late was a sign that well… shit happens.
- “No he’s mine. I’ll cut that bitch.”
- I could explore his scars I’d seen in passing. I closed my eyes tight. Those are not normal thoughts for someone who kidnapped me.
- I could grab him and never stop kissing him one minute and the next minute I didn’t even want to look at him.
May 2, 2016
4 Star Review Valid Deception by Jennifer Pfister
This is Ms. Pfister’s debut novel and I was impressed.
This is the story of Stevie, Craig and Austin. Stevie is a career focused women content to have a no strings relationship with Craig a member of an elite SWAT team. Craig suddenly and mysteriously disappears and Stevie, searching for answers goes to his partner and best friend, Austin.
This story was not what I expected at all. I couldn’t stand Craig and truly couldn’t understand what Stevie saw in him. He was a total jerk and my opinion didn’t change throughout the book.
Austin on the other hand, once you began to see what his motivations were, was someone I felt deserved Stevie. Despite the demons he was fighting at the end of the day, he is a man of integrity.
It is hard to write a review for this book, as I am concerned that I might inadvertently give something away, it really is one of those books that you need to read for yourself. There are so many twists and turns. Just when you think you have it sorted out mentally, the author throws another curve ball and you are left shaking your head.
There were at times periods where I felt the book was a little slow but overall it held my attention, although I did feel that the ending was a little rushed. I was impressed with the level of writing, particularly since this was the author’s first book. I cannot wait to see what she comes up with next.
If you are looking for a book with a difference, suspense and adventure, with a dash of love then look no further.
This is Ms. Pfister’s debut novel and I was impressed.
This is the story of Stevie, Craig and Austin. Stevie is a career focused women content to have a no strings relationship with Craig a member of an elite SWAT team. Craig suddenly and mysteriously disappears and Stevie, searching for answers goes to his partner and best friend, Austin.
This story was not what I expected at all. I couldn’t stand Craig and truly couldn’t understand what Stevie saw in him. He was a total jerk and my opinion didn’t change throughout the book.
Austin on the other hand, once you began to see what his motivations were, was someone I felt deserved Stevie. Despite the demons he was fighting at the end of the day, he is a man of integrity.
It is hard to write a review for this book, as I am concerned that I might inadvertently give something away, it really is one of those books that you need to read for yourself. There are so many twists and turns. Just when you think you have it sorted out mentally, the author throws another curve ball and you are left shaking your head.
There were at times periods where I felt the book was a little slow but overall it held my attention, although I did feel that the ending was a little rushed. I was impressed with the level of writing, particularly since this was the author’s first book. I cannot wait to see what she comes up with next.
If you are looking for a book with a difference, suspense and adventure, with a dash of love then look no further.
October 18, 2015
3 stars
Did I like this book, yes? Did I love this book, no? There are both good and bad things I could say about it. I liked the concept of the story; being in a relationship with a cop who disappears without a word for 3 days then you realize the one person who should know where he is, is his partner. Yet his partner isn’t who you think either.
What the hell happened? We slowing get the answer to the why Austin did what he did. The relationship between Stevie and Austin seems to evolve as the story goes. Although there was always an underlying attraction between the two of them from the beginning.
I would have liked to know more about Craig and where was he the three days that he disappeared. He was just gone. And why was he gone? What was the story behind that? I think I wanted to know more of the why there.
I enjoyed the way the story developed between Stevie and Austin even she could have gone back to her life at anytime. But knowing that she was protecting her family keeps her there. Although I think the attraction between the two of them was a major factor into her stays.
Oh one part that I loved was the fact that Austin was in car and drag racing. As I have come from a drag racing family, it was a shock to read about it and know exactly what was being said first hand. It was kind of exciting to say the less. The author did an amazing job with describing this area of the book.
Did I like this book, yes? Did I love this book, no? There are both good and bad things I could say about it. I liked the concept of the story; being in a relationship with a cop who disappears without a word for 3 days then you realize the one person who should know where he is, is his partner. Yet his partner isn’t who you think either.
What the hell happened? We slowing get the answer to the why Austin did what he did. The relationship between Stevie and Austin seems to evolve as the story goes. Although there was always an underlying attraction between the two of them from the beginning.
I would have liked to know more about Craig and where was he the three days that he disappeared. He was just gone. And why was he gone? What was the story behind that? I think I wanted to know more of the why there.
I enjoyed the way the story developed between Stevie and Austin even she could have gone back to her life at anytime. But knowing that she was protecting her family keeps her there. Although I think the attraction between the two of them was a major factor into her stays.
Oh one part that I loved was the fact that Austin was in car and drag racing. As I have come from a drag racing family, it was a shock to read about it and know exactly what was being said first hand. It was kind of exciting to say the less. The author did an amazing job with describing this area of the book.
August 5, 2015
Can I just start with saying that I love Austin <3
I was so lucky to get the opportunity of reviewing this book for an author I am beginning to consider a friend.
This is her debut book and she has done a mighty fine job, may I add.
The storyline is different and well written and though I felt it was dragging a bit from time to time I wasn't able to put it down for long, of the simple fact that this story is intriguing. Furthermore it gave me a reaction which is what reading is really about. I felt frustrated with Stevie and Austin multiple times for not seeing what was right in front of their eyes, I felt rebellion from Stevie and I fell in love with the good hearted man that is Austin.
Do I need to say something against this book though it would be that I felt the end didn't quite match the pace of the rest of the book as it all of the sudden goes really fast and I felt I lost the reasons for Stevie making the choices she does at the end. All through the book you get her thought progress until the last and for me the most important choice and that saddens me as I really and truly enjoyed this book.
I was so lucky to get the opportunity of reviewing this book for an author I am beginning to consider a friend.
This is her debut book and she has done a mighty fine job, may I add.
The storyline is different and well written and though I felt it was dragging a bit from time to time I wasn't able to put it down for long, of the simple fact that this story is intriguing. Furthermore it gave me a reaction which is what reading is really about. I felt frustrated with Stevie and Austin multiple times for not seeing what was right in front of their eyes, I felt rebellion from Stevie and I fell in love with the good hearted man that is Austin.
Do I need to say something against this book though it would be that I felt the end didn't quite match the pace of the rest of the book as it all of the sudden goes really fast and I felt I lost the reasons for Stevie making the choices she does at the end. All through the book you get her thought progress until the last and for me the most important choice and that saddens me as I really and truly enjoyed this book.
August 14, 2015
Okay, so I really enjoyed this book, it was very well written and it kept me intrigued for the most part.
So here's why I'm only giving it 4 stars, I felt that the story dragged a little, it took too long to find out why he kidnapped her and when we did I honestly don't think it was a good enough reason, I mean I get it he thought she had deceived him but to beat her and kidnap her? I don't think it was enough to do that. Then one minute he hates her and chokes her out then the next minute he's the same guy she liked before? Yeah I don't buy that. And the fact that he let her wonder about and get a job? I felt that once they had established that they liked each other it took too long for them to get together.
Overall I enjoyed the story it was just a bit dragged out but I would recommend it
So here's why I'm only giving it 4 stars, I felt that the story dragged a little, it took too long to find out why he kidnapped her and when we did I honestly don't think it was a good enough reason, I mean I get it he thought she had deceived him but to beat her and kidnap her? I don't think it was enough to do that. Then one minute he hates her and chokes her out then the next minute he's the same guy she liked before? Yeah I don't buy that. And the fact that he let her wonder about and get a job? I felt that once they had established that they liked each other it took too long for them to get together.
Overall I enjoyed the story it was just a bit dragged out but I would recommend it
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 3, 2015
Yikes
This has got to be the worst book I've read. I hate to not finish so I forced myself to read this through. The writing was odd, with flashbacks written in third person that I think the author meant to give you hints about what was going to happen but instead were just confusing. The main characters were weird and I felt no connection to them. While there were essential plots elements that I had no problem with, the whole reason why Austin acted as he did was off the wall bizarre- he's an ex-marine, a cop (SWAT no less) and he acts with complete disregard to honor, all for revenge?! Makes no sense. I just couldn't connect with this story.
This has got to be the worst book I've read. I hate to not finish so I forced myself to read this through. The writing was odd, with flashbacks written in third person that I think the author meant to give you hints about what was going to happen but instead were just confusing. The main characters were weird and I felt no connection to them. While there were essential plots elements that I had no problem with, the whole reason why Austin acted as he did was off the wall bizarre- he's an ex-marine, a cop (SWAT no less) and he acts with complete disregard to honor, all for revenge?! Makes no sense. I just couldn't connect with this story.
August 4, 2015
3.5 STARS!
A promising start for new author, Jennifer Pfister! Valid Deception is a wild read with twists at every turn. This book has everything you are looking for in a romantic suspense...deception, betrayal, and one hot SWAT guy! With a dramatic storyline, from a psychotic ex-girlfriend to a kidnapping, Jennifer Pfister didn't hold back any punches. Non-stop from start to finish, this debut novel is sure to be just the beginning for this up and coming author!
♥ Review by Lys
A promising start for new author, Jennifer Pfister! Valid Deception is a wild read with twists at every turn. This book has everything you are looking for in a romantic suspense...deception, betrayal, and one hot SWAT guy! With a dramatic storyline, from a psychotic ex-girlfriend to a kidnapping, Jennifer Pfister didn't hold back any punches. Non-stop from start to finish, this debut novel is sure to be just the beginning for this up and coming author!
♥ Review by Lys
August 14, 2015
This book had mixed reviews so I decided to read it and make up my own mind. Unfortunately I didn't enjoy it despite reading it all the way through. I wasn't keen on the writing style, there were flashbacks which seemed to be all over the place. There were grammatical errors and mistakes which I hate. I also found the plot to be too far fetched and I didn't really warm up to the characters either. I found it to be overly long with a lot of pointless dialogue and unnecessary waffle. I wouldn't recommend it personally but others have enjoyed it so it's all about personal taste in the end.
July 22, 2015
I loved this! You think you know what's going to happen, but you don't! Loved the plots, twists and turns - the romantic tension between the two lead characters is amazing! There were a number of dramatic moments that left me on the edge of my chair! (Or shouting out loud!) I read this book in a couple of days, once you start it, you'll want to see it through! Can't wait to see what Jen brings us next!
August 6, 2015
*** Recieved a copy for my honest review for Fallen for Books Reviewers ***
This book was an interesting read. I found myself shaking my head in disbelieve more than once. And the expression 'Stockholm syndrome' came to mind while reading.
I was hooked by the main characters from the first chapter and was eager to find out what would happen to them.
This was the first book by this author and I'm going to be on the lookout for more of her books.
This book was an interesting read. I found myself shaking my head in disbelieve more than once. And the expression 'Stockholm syndrome' came to mind while reading.
I was hooked by the main characters from the first chapter and was eager to find out what would happen to them.
This was the first book by this author and I'm going to be on the lookout for more of her books.
August 31, 2015
the book had a great plot but I found that there was just to much, I didn't like how it was in one point of view but whenever the author wanted to explain something we jumped to different people's point, just to much, then I felt the ending just to tidy to quick. not to give any spoilers but the author played about an ex, when the confrontation happened there was just talking, blah,blah,blah, while Austin broke down. really?
September 19, 2015
3.5 SMOOCHES
I read and reviewed this book on behalf of RED CHEEKS READS.
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I read and reviewed this book on behalf of RED CHEEKS READS.
Review: http://redcheeksreads.com/valid-decep...
Red Cheeks Reads blog: www.redcheeksreads.com
Follow Red Cheeks Reads on:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/redcheeksreads
Twitter: https://twitter.com/redcheeksreads
July 27, 2015
I enjoyed this book .. Had me turning the pages to see how things were going with Stevie and Austin ... Loved them both with the connection they had together .. Can't wait for more books from Jennifer Pfister
July 25, 2015
On and on and on and on... this author needed an editor. Good concept, needs work on the execution. Author needs to have a "craig" point of instead of just an italicized version of his events... and make it more mysterious, don't just tell us what he did- show us.
November 8, 2015
Received a copy for my honest review
The story line has a lot of potential. I just couldn't make sense of what was going on. The story jumped around a lot and there wasn't a clear story. I just couldn't finish this one
The story line has a lot of potential. I just couldn't make sense of what was going on. The story jumped around a lot and there wasn't a clear story. I just couldn't finish this one
August 7, 2015
3.5 Stars. While it was an entertaining book it felt like it kept repeating the same events just a tad differently for 1/2 the book. Glad I read it but it won't be a reread for me.
August 3, 2015
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Great debut novel! I really liked the plot and characters. Enjoyable read.
Great debut novel! I really liked the plot and characters. Enjoyable read.
December 17, 2015
This book just wasn't for me I'm afraid.
July 24, 2015
3.5 stars
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews