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Love in Disguise #2
Dealing in Deception
In this companion to Samantha Joyce’s Flirting with Fame , Veronica Wilde finds that playing make-believe isn’t all it’s cracked up to be—especially when it’s keeping her from pursuing the one man who makes her heart go wild .
As an actress-for-hire, Veronica Wilde has made a living out of pretending to be other people. It’s the one thing at which she’s always taking on someone else’s personality and running with it. So after Elise Jameson, author of the bestselling Viking Moon series, decides she no longer requires Veronica’s services, she needs to find a new gig—and fast.
But when her newest client hires Veronica to help him make his small business look more successful than it actually is, the sparks that fly between them are definitely not part of the act. Suddenly, Veronica finds she’s tired of playing pretend for a living. She’s been acting for so long, she’s blindsided by the one man who sees her for who she really is. And the most terrifying part? She might actually like it.
As an actress-for-hire, Veronica Wilde has made a living out of pretending to be other people. It’s the one thing at which she’s always taking on someone else’s personality and running with it. So after Elise Jameson, author of the bestselling Viking Moon series, decides she no longer requires Veronica’s services, she needs to find a new gig—and fast.
But when her newest client hires Veronica to help him make his small business look more successful than it actually is, the sparks that fly between them are definitely not part of the act. Suddenly, Veronica finds she’s tired of playing pretend for a living. She’s been acting for so long, she’s blindsided by the one man who sees her for who she really is. And the most terrifying part? She might actually like it.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 14, 2016
3 people are currently reading
215 people want to read
About the author
Samantha Joyce
3 books100 followersSamantha Joyce became an author because she much preferred writing about other people instead of herself. Then she was told she needed to write an author bio for her books and website, and her plan was thwarted. She’s the author of two adult romance books: Flirting with Fame and Dealing in Deception. She lives in Toronto, Ontario Canada, and when she is not writing, she’s baking pretty cakes or beading jewelry or sitting in the audience at many Broadway musicals. Samantha’s a hopeless romantic who loves writing about love. Her favorite thing in the world is making people laugh, so if you chuckle at least once while reading her books, this bio writing thing was worth it.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
September 3, 2016
You know a book is compelling when you devour it in less than a day. And you know a book is amazing when you feel a whole range of emotions while reading it: happiness, sadness, anger, frustration, confusion, excitement, satisfaction. And DEALING IN DECEPTION, which I literally could not put down, delivers all the feels.
DEALING IN DECEPTION is Veronica's story-- if you read Samantha Joyce's debut novel, FLIRTING WITH FAME, you probably remember Veronica as... well, not so likeable. Which made me want to read her story even more, of course, because I love nothing more than an antihero. What makes Veronica such a believable character (and Samantha Joyce a very talented author) is that Veronica is so multifaceted. Sure, she's unlikeable at times, but she's also sad and vulnerable and underneath her granite-hard exterior is someone with a lot of demons in her past.
Enter Baxter, a guy who couldn't be farther from Veronica's usual type. He's kind and altruistic and has a plan to help the homeless population of DC stay warm in the winter, but he can't do it without help. He enlists Veronica, an actress-for-hire, to pose as his business partner and use her connections to hopefully get him an interested investor. Veronica and Baxter can't see eye to eye on anything, but the chemistry between them is palpable (and their banter is seriously laugh-out-loud hilarious).
When a series of events bring them closer together, will Veronica be able to open up to Bax? And will he be able to pry underneath the armor she wears to keep people out?
DEALING IN DECEPTION has everything you could possibly want as a reader. Plot twists, humor, realistic relationships, drama, and healthy doses of romance. I found myself turning pages at a rapid rate because I had to know what happened next. Samantha Joyce's writing is effervescent and feels effortless, which is extremely difficulty to accomplish! I look forward to whatever she writes next.
If you're looking for a book you'll be able to escape into, a book that will keep you up past your bedtime populated by characters you'll cheer for, don't miss DEALING IN DECEPTION!
DEALING IN DECEPTION is Veronica's story-- if you read Samantha Joyce's debut novel, FLIRTING WITH FAME, you probably remember Veronica as... well, not so likeable. Which made me want to read her story even more, of course, because I love nothing more than an antihero. What makes Veronica such a believable character (and Samantha Joyce a very talented author) is that Veronica is so multifaceted. Sure, she's unlikeable at times, but she's also sad and vulnerable and underneath her granite-hard exterior is someone with a lot of demons in her past.
Enter Baxter, a guy who couldn't be farther from Veronica's usual type. He's kind and altruistic and has a plan to help the homeless population of DC stay warm in the winter, but he can't do it without help. He enlists Veronica, an actress-for-hire, to pose as his business partner and use her connections to hopefully get him an interested investor. Veronica and Baxter can't see eye to eye on anything, but the chemistry between them is palpable (and their banter is seriously laugh-out-loud hilarious).
When a series of events bring them closer together, will Veronica be able to open up to Bax? And will he be able to pry underneath the armor she wears to keep people out?
DEALING IN DECEPTION has everything you could possibly want as a reader. Plot twists, humor, realistic relationships, drama, and healthy doses of romance. I found myself turning pages at a rapid rate because I had to know what happened next. Samantha Joyce's writing is effervescent and feels effortless, which is extremely difficulty to accomplish! I look forward to whatever she writes next.
If you're looking for a book you'll be able to escape into, a book that will keep you up past your bedtime populated by characters you'll cheer for, don't miss DEALING IN DECEPTION!
November 23, 2016
Oh gosh, okay let's talk. Trigger Warnings for the book are a spoiler . I won't talk about those spoilers in this review, please see my review on my blog for that commentary.
I really enjoyed FLIRTING WITH FAME, Elise was my kind of heroine and Gavin was a good sort of hero. That said Veronica stole my heart. At the end of the book I somewhat desperately needed to know she would get her happy ending too. Because while I could identify with Elise's insecurities and foibles, it was Veronica I wanted to protect. Veronica who I wanted to see smile and happy.
Going into DEALING I was hoping she'd be happy. I was hoping she'd lose those demons and find someone on her level.
And Bax was so much more than I could have hoped for. Not perfect, a little self-righteous, but so warm. Snarky, genuine and earnest Bax who challenged Veronica just by saying "Hi".
Veronica in FLIRTING both the same as the young woman we see in DEALING and different. As FLIRTING was about Elise, and her overcoming her troubled past, we only saw the Veronica who Elise saw. Conniving, manipulative, callous – a young woman who cared more about the superficial and materialistic than anything else. And this is true, but not for the reasons that Veronica presents.
I sobbed through a lot of Veronica explaining to Bax her background. The scared, lonely girl Elise glimpsed at the end of FLIRTING had never really been given a chance to move beyond the guilt she carried. She wanted, even if she couldn’t admit it, what Elise and Gavin shared, but was secretly certain she didn’t deserve it. How could she? Her one moment of selfishness at 16 led to a horrible tragedy she should have prevented, but didn’t. (If you can’t tell that’s my sarcastic tone).
By comparison Bax’s personal unhappiness is much easier to relate to – in love with the same girl since high school, had their life all planned out, but he wanted to do more for the world and she wanted more from the world. She left him for someone rich, Bax was devastated and now was desperately trying to get his mad scheme financed. He’s a true do-gooder, the kind of altruistic sort you hear about, but scoff at because there is no way he is. But no, Bax is. This isn’t to say he’s perfect, but at the end of the day when he has a choice between helping a stranger because he can or walking away because it’s easier, he’ll choose the stranger every time.
I admire him for that and it’s something that Veronica slowly begins to admire too.
After a particularly nasty meeting with a former client, her cynical world view hit the pavement. She had, in her own way, lived within a naive bubble. She had believed because she was the one doing her clients a favor—getting their girlfriend back, pretending to be someone’s business partner or date—that would help them get everything they wanted, she was in control. And she was, but it was a false sense of security. Frank showed just how easily that security could be taken away.
The two of them together was marvelous. It wasn’t really a relationship of imbalance – Bax gave as well as Veronica did when it came to poking buttons. The both didn’t instantly fall for the other – it was a give and take. Bax gave her warmth and genuineness that she rarely felt from guys, Veronica gave him confidence and perspective on this brave new world he was trying to create. Bax showed her that sometimes it’s the little things that help, while she showed him that grand gestures don’t always mean being untruthful.
And yeah the truth can set you free. Both of them being honest about what they wanted/expected from the other, both willing to work with the other to be happy…well. I’m so freaking glad Veronica got her happy ending. Seriously. Like joyful tears in my eyes even now.
Also, thank you Bax. You gave her the warm blanket I wanted to wrap her in! Even if it was smelly, dirty and not very pretty—you gave her the warm hugs and blanket I wanted to give her.
I really enjoyed FLIRTING WITH FAME, Elise was my kind of heroine and Gavin was a good sort of hero. That said Veronica stole my heart. At the end of the book I somewhat desperately needed to know she would get her happy ending too. Because while I could identify with Elise's insecurities and foibles, it was Veronica I wanted to protect. Veronica who I wanted to see smile and happy.
Going into DEALING I was hoping she'd be happy. I was hoping she'd lose those demons and find someone on her level.
And Bax was so much more than I could have hoped for. Not perfect, a little self-righteous, but so warm. Snarky, genuine and earnest Bax who challenged Veronica just by saying "Hi".
Veronica in FLIRTING both the same as the young woman we see in DEALING and different. As FLIRTING was about Elise, and her overcoming her troubled past, we only saw the Veronica who Elise saw. Conniving, manipulative, callous – a young woman who cared more about the superficial and materialistic than anything else. And this is true, but not for the reasons that Veronica presents.
I sobbed through a lot of Veronica explaining to Bax her background. The scared, lonely girl Elise glimpsed at the end of FLIRTING had never really been given a chance to move beyond the guilt she carried. She wanted, even if she couldn’t admit it, what Elise and Gavin shared, but was secretly certain she didn’t deserve it. How could she? Her one moment of selfishness at 16 led to a horrible tragedy she should have prevented, but didn’t. (If you can’t tell that’s my sarcastic tone).
By comparison Bax’s personal unhappiness is much easier to relate to – in love with the same girl since high school, had their life all planned out, but he wanted to do more for the world and she wanted more from the world. She left him for someone rich, Bax was devastated and now was desperately trying to get his mad scheme financed. He’s a true do-gooder, the kind of altruistic sort you hear about, but scoff at because there is no way he is. But no, Bax is. This isn’t to say he’s perfect, but at the end of the day when he has a choice between helping a stranger because he can or walking away because it’s easier, he’ll choose the stranger every time.
I admire him for that and it’s something that Veronica slowly begins to admire too.
After a particularly nasty meeting with a former client, her cynical world view hit the pavement. She had, in her own way, lived within a naive bubble. She had believed because she was the one doing her clients a favor—getting their girlfriend back, pretending to be someone’s business partner or date—that would help them get everything they wanted, she was in control. And she was, but it was a false sense of security. Frank showed just how easily that security could be taken away.
The two of them together was marvelous. It wasn’t really a relationship of imbalance – Bax gave as well as Veronica did when it came to poking buttons. The both didn’t instantly fall for the other – it was a give and take. Bax gave her warmth and genuineness that she rarely felt from guys, Veronica gave him confidence and perspective on this brave new world he was trying to create. Bax showed her that sometimes it’s the little things that help, while she showed him that grand gestures don’t always mean being untruthful.
And yeah the truth can set you free. Both of them being honest about what they wanted/expected from the other, both willing to work with the other to be happy…well. I’m so freaking glad Veronica got her happy ending. Seriously. Like joyful tears in my eyes even now.
Also, thank you Bax. You gave her the warm blanket I wanted to wrap her in! Even if it was smelly, dirty and not very pretty—you gave her the warm hugs and blanket I wanted to give her.
October 23, 2016
I think I might like this even better than the first? MMMHHH ... Maybe not?
While I can't tell you which one of the two Love in Disguise novels I like better, I can tell you with certainty I like them both.
Dealing in Deception feature the villainess of the first book. It is set at a later time, we get a few glimpses of Gavin and Elise, but really DiD could easily be read as a standalone.
Like Flirting with Fame this is a slightly different kind of romance. With that I mostly mean the MCs.
The story line is cram-full of cliches, just like FwF was. But somehow Joyce takes an oldie theme (a goodie to be clear), throws in a bunch of well used cliches and makes it her own. There are beautiful insightful and inspiring moments here. And yet it is lighthearted and funny.
I think all of this shows Joyces talent as a storyteller. Her writing style is easy, simple and straightforward, yet she inspires with her descriptions and is on point with her insight. All of this is tied together with excellent character building.
And to be honest, while I like the story line, I absolutely and utterly adore the characters, with ALL the flaws. I mean some of them are a tad over the top, which makes them kinda cliche. Starting with Bax, who I completely adore btw. But he is your typical goody good doer. Well, at least half the time. Then Joyce shows sides and layers to him that make him so human and kinda real. It's actually kinda freaky, but I related to all the characters in both books so much, I honestly feel like I know them all. That goes for the support cast as well. I think, Joyce using the well known usuals, then adding her own twist to them, kinda makes one get to know them faster and relate better. As I said, brilliant.
Veronica is fabulous. I loved her in FiF and knew exactly where Joyce was taking her in this book. (especially with how things ended in FiF and Elise kinda spilling the beans.) BUT I didn't expect to love her this much. I totally related to her. I mean we all have the scared mean girl in us, at least to a degree. I love how Bax and her slowly change and fell for each other. The character growth of the MCs is inspiring.
Just like the first installment of the series, I was left to ponder over the deeper issues Joyce has touched on. Let's face it, the likelihood that Elise would have ended up where she does in the series, is small. The same goes for Bax and Veronica. But this is fiction! And more importantly I know there are people out there that are like Elise, Regina, Clint, Bax and co.
Bax with his ambitious goals and his great invention, might not exist in RL (does he? has the blanket been invented?) but people like him do. There are people who run shelters, volunteer and other who give to charity. Those are the kind of people I strive to emulate. I am touched that Joyce highlighted a reality we all too often forget. She did it with sweetness and kindness. Reminding us that there are wonderful people on this earth and that we have to help each other. All without being preachy or making a huge fuss about it.
THANK YOU!
While I can't tell you which one of the two Love in Disguise novels I like better, I can tell you with certainty I like them both.
Dealing in Deception feature the villainess of the first book. It is set at a later time, we get a few glimpses of Gavin and Elise, but really DiD could easily be read as a standalone.
Like Flirting with Fame this is a slightly different kind of romance. With that I mostly mean the MCs.
The story line is cram-full of cliches, just like FwF was. But somehow Joyce takes an oldie theme (a goodie to be clear), throws in a bunch of well used cliches and makes it her own. There are beautiful insightful and inspiring moments here. And yet it is lighthearted and funny.
I think all of this shows Joyces talent as a storyteller. Her writing style is easy, simple and straightforward, yet she inspires with her descriptions and is on point with her insight. All of this is tied together with excellent character building.
And to be honest, while I like the story line, I absolutely and utterly adore the characters, with ALL the flaws. I mean some of them are a tad over the top, which makes them kinda cliche. Starting with Bax, who I completely adore btw. But he is your typical goody good doer. Well, at least half the time. Then Joyce shows sides and layers to him that make him so human and kinda real. It's actually kinda freaky, but I related to all the characters in both books so much, I honestly feel like I know them all. That goes for the support cast as well. I think, Joyce using the well known usuals, then adding her own twist to them, kinda makes one get to know them faster and relate better. As I said, brilliant.
Veronica is fabulous. I loved her in FiF and knew exactly where Joyce was taking her in this book. (especially with how things ended in FiF and Elise kinda spilling the beans.) BUT I didn't expect to love her this much. I totally related to her. I mean we all have the scared mean girl in us, at least to a degree. I love how Bax and her slowly change and fell for each other. The character growth of the MCs is inspiring.
Just like the first installment of the series, I was left to ponder over the deeper issues Joyce has touched on. Let's face it, the likelihood that Elise would have ended up where she does in the series, is small. The same goes for Bax and Veronica. But this is fiction! And more importantly I know there are people out there that are like Elise, Regina, Clint, Bax and co.
Bax with his ambitious goals and his great invention, might not exist in RL (does he? has the blanket been invented?) but people like him do. There are people who run shelters, volunteer and other who give to charity. Those are the kind of people I strive to emulate. I am touched that Joyce highlighted a reality we all too often forget. She did it with sweetness and kindness. Reminding us that there are wonderful people on this earth and that we have to help each other. All without being preachy or making a huge fuss about it.
THANK YOU!
November 7, 2016
This was an unexpected book in many ways. A unique concept in the story plot along with interesting and in-depth character development made this book an amazing read.
The author did not shy away from creating a female lead that had some serious issues that made her almost unlikeable. But underneath every snarky comment is a warmth that needs to come out, given the right person willing to break some barriers. That person is Bax.
Bax is a sweet, do-gooder that Veronica didn't really care for, until he gave back what she gave. Smart wit and humorous bantering between the two, while whittling away the walls and issues, made this an engrossing read that was difficult to stop reading.
With some drama, deception, supportive respect, heated anticipation, and a lovely romance along the way, Samantha Joyce crafted a delightful read that is full of every emotion that we experience in real life. Her characters are likable, scared, flawed, and work so well together. Definitely a read that you have to check out! This is one you will think about for days after closing the cover.
The author did not shy away from creating a female lead that had some serious issues that made her almost unlikeable. But underneath every snarky comment is a warmth that needs to come out, given the right person willing to break some barriers. That person is Bax.
Bax is a sweet, do-gooder that Veronica didn't really care for, until he gave back what she gave. Smart wit and humorous bantering between the two, while whittling away the walls and issues, made this an engrossing read that was difficult to stop reading.
With some drama, deception, supportive respect, heated anticipation, and a lovely romance along the way, Samantha Joyce crafted a delightful read that is full of every emotion that we experience in real life. Her characters are likable, scared, flawed, and work so well together. Definitely a read that you have to check out! This is one you will think about for days after closing the cover.
November 14, 2016
LINK: https://collectorofbookboyfriends.com...
Book Review: 6++ “Hero” stars!!
Samantha Joyce has become after this, undoubtedly, one of the authors who gain more and more ground on my heart strings and with her with a huge head-start. Her books has done a delicious, unforgettable, read-over-and-over-again number on me which I don’t seem to bear to let it go. Even though, this book held me ’til the last word of the Epilogue to allow me to decide on my feelings for it.
Dealing in Deception is the second installment in the magnificent Joyce’s debut series, Love in Disguise, whose title couldn’t be more perfect for the stories it cuddles. For those who have read the great first book, Flirting with Fame, which told the soul-captivating story of Elise, the deaf writer of a YA book series, already know this book’s heroine, Veronica. Although, I never would have guessed or imagined the the background behind the image of a jealous, selfish, “diva” person she bore during her part in Elise’s story. To say that I was caught off guard of how incredibly much I loved both her and her story would an understatement. I simply couldn’t tear my eyes away for her pages since each chapter had me starving for more. The combination of the intriguing and beautiful complexity of her personality and the amazing, sweet, unselfish, caring soul of Baxter sealed the deal for me. They were on of these couples who not only click with each other instantly, but also YOU. And what more a reader could ask of an author? But let me set the stage for their love’s unfolding first for whoever isn’t familiar with it because s/he went straight for my review before the blurb :p
Veronica Wilde is a woman who works as a high-prided actor-for-hire, pretending to be a different person depending on the demands of each job she takes. Her business is advertised through the classic way, mouth-to-mouth. And that’s how Baxter Linton gets wind of her services. Bax is a guy who wants to get his social-entrepreneurial business of the ground so he can start helping people in need. He’s really an extremely charismatic, kind, unselfish, genius man who is passionate about helping the homeless with his genius invention. But he lacks on his promotional skills, so he decides to hire Veronica to help him look business-like and a serious candidate for big-money funds. There is a Greek expression we say when someone goes to do something, but the outcome is completely different from what he expected; the phrase goes something like this: “Πήγε για μαλλί και βγήκε κουρεμένος” (/phge gia malli kai vgike kouremenos/) which in a completely and maybe non-understandable translation is “Went for wool and came out hunted.”. And both Veronica and Bax fit this description since neither, especially Veronica, didn’t see the life-changing Ace life had dealt her upon her first meeting with him. And what a meeting was that, really?! I was left with my mouth hanging open and my heart beating erratically after the end of it. I wish I could say the “how” but It’s too much of a precious scene for me to spoil it for you and not let you discover it yourself.
That book was wrong. The devil doesn’t wear Prada. I’m pretty sure she wears Channel.
The subjects that I HAVE TO develop here are quite a few but extremely essential for me so please bear with me and keep reading. The first was how they first met which I said above. The second is how light-years different is this book’s Veronica from the brief one I met in the first book. There are some moments that I thought that I was reading a story of a different woman who, by chance, was called Veronica Wilde. Her meeting and working pretty close with Bax, worked miracles on her. Saying that it changed her wouldn’t be accurate since her heart was already in the right place, but it was locked deep down tightly with a bunch of unattainable layers blocking whoever tried to get close. And Bax had the keys for each layer’s lock, making him the one who set Veronica free.
I didn’t stand a chance against those eyes.
Next subject has two sides: the first is, who else than Ari, Bax’s phenomenal retriever? His full name is Armani but whoever knew him called him Ari. His role in the whole story is beyond essential; AND AWESOME! I couldn’t help not fall in love with him since his first appearance. His kind doggy soul and radiant personality pushed Veronica with every encounter to discover her humanity, unselfishness and let herself free to love and feel loved. The second side of the subject is little Connor who also did all the above, but at the same time forced her to see what really was happening around her. His 6-year-old sweetness captivated Veronica instantly – add ME too to that list – and with every meeting, he got to broke down a part of the emotional barriers of her heart’s layers, doing Bax’s job even more easy. Who couldn’t love these two pure souls and not consider them essential parts of this story’s unfolding?
Another thing, which was beyond amazing and bonded me more to the book, was the graphical tour of Washington DC through Bax’s eyes. I was experiencing the beauty this wonderful city has to offer all over again, making me missing it even more. The whole time he was introducing the real Washington to Veronica, the feeling that I was right beside them, walking the same streets and visiting the same spectacular monuments, was pretty overwhelming. I have felt this feeling with very few books before, but never as powerful and “real” as this time. One of the things that stayed with me the rest of the story and after the end of it, was the feelings he was describing to her while standing before Abraham Lincoln’s statue. I felt his words deep in my heart and remembered what I felt when I was standing in front of that majestic statue of this great man and leader.
Samantha, you created a real masterpiece and the perfect follow up for the gem that was the first book. This series is more than promising and will affect you deeply, both with the incredible characters and the unique stories they star in. It would be a shame not to experience it too. This series is 200% MUST for me and the recommendation goes without further thought. Please check it out; it beyond worth it!!
September 29, 2016
I'm SO LUCKY to have gotten my hands on an advanced copy of this story! It had me laughing out loud and biting my nails in turn.
Whenever I wasn't reading it, I wanted to be reading it.
And whenever I was reading it, I didn't want it to end.
The writing is phenomenal, real, engaging, romantic, compelling, and, YES, sometimes even a little edgy. One of my faves of 2016.
Whenever I wasn't reading it, I wanted to be reading it.
And whenever I was reading it, I didn't want it to end.
The writing is phenomenal, real, engaging, romantic, compelling, and, YES, sometimes even a little edgy. One of my faves of 2016.
February 18, 2017
I knew I wanted to know more about Veronica when I read FLIRTING WITH FAME. What I didn't know was how much I'd fall in love with her!
And Bax...can we just talk about Bax for a second?? His do-gooder, save-the-world mentality was the absolute perfect pairing to Veronica's wild side/tough exterior. (Also, can Bax's blanket really exist?! It could change the world!) Bax also has an adorable pup named Ari whom I adored.
Samantha fleshed out a brilliant story here and managed to perfectly incorporate beloved characters from FWF. I can't wait to read more from her!! <3
October 23, 2016
I read this book in one sitting. I loved it and I love Samantha Joyce's writing. She tells a story that pulls at your heart and makes you want to be a better person.
When I read FLIRTING WITH FAME, I knew I had a new favorite author who I had just discovered. That book has stayed with me for moths. I loved that one so much.
Now, Dealing in Deception is Veronica's story. She was the "villain" in FLIRTING WITH FAME and somehow Samantha Joyce has made you feel for Veronica in this book and made you see, she is not really a bad person, just lost.
Veronica is now made a career out of pretending to be someone else. She is an actress of arts, hired by people who need her help in one way or another. This is how she meets Baxter. Baxter is a good guy. Like a really good guy. He is trying to get some investors to make his blankets that help out the homeless population. He knows how cold it gets and how much these men and women could use help in the cold winter months. So, Baxter hires Veronica to help him get the backing he needs with her help and expertise.
Veronica and Baxter are such opposites, that they can't seem to see eye to eye on anything. You think this would work against them, but it doesn't. Being so opposite seems to bring out the better in the other person. Baxter is making Veronica slowly become a more caring person (to people other than herself). And Veronica is making Baxter become more business savvy and outgoing when dealing with others. He has been so lost and in a shell since him and his ex broke up, he needed someone like Veronica to make him see how special he is and his ideas are.
I really enjoyed this book. I hated Veronica in FLIRTING WITH FAME, like really hated her. I didnt think she had any redeeming qualities. But somehow, Samantha changed my mind and made me REALLY like her. And at the end, I forgot about how bad she used to be and she become a new favorite of mine. Maybe thanks to Baxter and how great he was!!
When I read FLIRTING WITH FAME, I knew I had a new favorite author who I had just discovered. That book has stayed with me for moths. I loved that one so much.
Now, Dealing in Deception is Veronica's story. She was the "villain" in FLIRTING WITH FAME and somehow Samantha Joyce has made you feel for Veronica in this book and made you see, she is not really a bad person, just lost.
Veronica is now made a career out of pretending to be someone else. She is an actress of arts, hired by people who need her help in one way or another. This is how she meets Baxter. Baxter is a good guy. Like a really good guy. He is trying to get some investors to make his blankets that help out the homeless population. He knows how cold it gets and how much these men and women could use help in the cold winter months. So, Baxter hires Veronica to help him get the backing he needs with her help and expertise.
Veronica and Baxter are such opposites, that they can't seem to see eye to eye on anything. You think this would work against them, but it doesn't. Being so opposite seems to bring out the better in the other person. Baxter is making Veronica slowly become a more caring person (to people other than herself). And Veronica is making Baxter become more business savvy and outgoing when dealing with others. He has been so lost and in a shell since him and his ex broke up, he needed someone like Veronica to make him see how special he is and his ideas are.
I really enjoyed this book. I hated Veronica in FLIRTING WITH FAME, like really hated her. I didnt think she had any redeeming qualities. But somehow, Samantha changed my mind and made me REALLY like her. And at the end, I forgot about how bad she used to be and she become a new favorite of mine. Maybe thanks to Baxter and how great he was!!
December 19, 2016
I loved Ms. Joyce's first book in this series, Flirting with Fame. Veronica was the girl you loved to hate in that book, so I was excited to find out how she would find her own way and someone special.
Wow, just wow! This book has so much depth and all of the feels, sadness, anger, laughter, happiness, and frustration. Veronica was perfect. She went from the anti-hero to the perfect hero. Her character growth was so powerful and emotional, I couldn't stop reading the book.
Baxter was great from the start. He wasn't the cliché alpha hero. He was real, emotional, smart, sensitive, brave, strong, silly, protective, loving, and he was loved by his dog (you can't go wrong there!).
Baxter and Veronica's banter and their relationship growth was so fun to read, I couldn't put down the book.
If you enjoy reading love stories about real people that's funny, witty, emotional, and romantic, you need to read this book! :)
Wow, just wow! This book has so much depth and all of the feels, sadness, anger, laughter, happiness, and frustration. Veronica was perfect. She went from the anti-hero to the perfect hero. Her character growth was so powerful and emotional, I couldn't stop reading the book.
Baxter was great from the start. He wasn't the cliché alpha hero. He was real, emotional, smart, sensitive, brave, strong, silly, protective, loving, and he was loved by his dog (you can't go wrong there!).
Baxter and Veronica's banter and their relationship growth was so fun to read, I couldn't put down the book.
If you enjoy reading love stories about real people that's funny, witty, emotional, and romantic, you need to read this book! :)
November 18, 2016
I was really surprised by this book. This was my first read by Samantha Joyce and I really enjoyed this book a lot.
I instantly fell in love with Baxter. I love a lovable geek and Baxter fit it to a tee. An ex-accountant out to do good in the world around him. It did take me a while to warm up to Veronica, but the chemistry between these two was awesome. The bickering and the sarcastic nature of both made this a fun read.
This was a fun quick read that was full of heart and I can't wait to read more books from Samantha Joyce. She has definitely been added to my TBR list.
I instantly fell in love with Baxter. I love a lovable geek and Baxter fit it to a tee. An ex-accountant out to do good in the world around him. It did take me a while to warm up to Veronica, but the chemistry between these two was awesome. The bickering and the sarcastic nature of both made this a fun read.
This was a fun quick read that was full of heart and I can't wait to read more books from Samantha Joyce. She has definitely been added to my TBR list.
November 23, 2016
Romance books (and even books in general) are not my thing, but after thinking Flirting with Fame (the predecessor) was pretty good, I read this one too. It was awesome! The characters are excellently written, and while the story is just as you should expect, the way it unfolds is exciting and had me turning pages instead of looking for my normal hobbies. Each chapter leads well into the next, and before you know it, there's a happy ending. Although it stands alone from Flirting with Fame, there are a few nods to it that make reading this one just a little bit more satisfying.
December 18, 2016
This book stole my heart. Bax is the type of hero I adore, sweet and sensitive, yet strong and masculine. Veronica has depth beyond her Manolos and designer dresses, becoming more fascinating as the story unfolds. The pacing was wonderful, each twist and turn forcing me to flip the pages faster. Dealing in Deception is an absolute winner!
November 25, 2016
Dealing in Deception by Samantha Joyce is the 2nd novel in her Love in Disguise series. Even though this book read very well as a standalone, I do recommend that you read the first book in this series, Flirting with Fame. Veronica Wilde, the bad girl in the first book, becomes the heroine in this one, and surprisingly, Samantha Joyce does pull this off. I could not stand Veronica in the first book, and when I found out she was the lead, I was not sure if I would enjoy this one. Even if I wanted to smack her a few times early on, Veronica grew on me, and I actually surprised myself by liking and rooting for her. Veronica is an actress, who helps clients in many facets, such as a pretend girlfriend, business associate with many contacts, or just a pretty date for the rich client.
We meet Baxter (Bax) our hero when he is down on his luck trying to sell his invention of special warming blankets for the homeless. As his frustration mounts, Bax’s friend ,Scott, convinces him to hire an actress who helped him get his girlfriend back. When Bax meets Veronica (she does use many names for different clients), he ends up saving her from an accident, but she wasn’t very nice and they both got off on the wrong foot. They will run into each other again in a bar, and Veronica will offer her services to help Bax meet wealthy contacts of hers, as well as to teach him how to dress and act.
Despite that they are both so different, a slow build romance will begin, with Bax falling for Veronica; but she refuses to allow herself to recognize that Bax is the perfect man for her. Veronica does come off as spoiled and snobbish, but underneath it all, we learn more about her childhood, family tragedy, and how she had to do everything for herself at very young age. Together, they will get funding for Bax’s invention, and Bax will become an entrepreneur. Bax has always helped with the homeless, and Veronica will find herself slowly changing, becoming more caring of those in need.
Their romance heats up, and becomes sizzling; but Veronica’s fears from her childhood days will make her push Bax away. Will Bax convince Veronica that their love is worth fighting for? Will Veronica be willing to give up her glitzy, cold life?
It was nice to see Elise and Gavin (heroes of the first book), though it was brief. I did like the addition of some of the homeless people, who both Bax and Veronica helped. Once again, Samantha Joyce has given us a wonderful story of a couple that are opposites, with some twists, life situations, and romance. I look forward to the next book in this series.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
We meet Baxter (Bax) our hero when he is down on his luck trying to sell his invention of special warming blankets for the homeless. As his frustration mounts, Bax’s friend ,Scott, convinces him to hire an actress who helped him get his girlfriend back. When Bax meets Veronica (she does use many names for different clients), he ends up saving her from an accident, but she wasn’t very nice and they both got off on the wrong foot. They will run into each other again in a bar, and Veronica will offer her services to help Bax meet wealthy contacts of hers, as well as to teach him how to dress and act.
Despite that they are both so different, a slow build romance will begin, with Bax falling for Veronica; but she refuses to allow herself to recognize that Bax is the perfect man for her. Veronica does come off as spoiled and snobbish, but underneath it all, we learn more about her childhood, family tragedy, and how she had to do everything for herself at very young age. Together, they will get funding for Bax’s invention, and Bax will become an entrepreneur. Bax has always helped with the homeless, and Veronica will find herself slowly changing, becoming more caring of those in need.
Their romance heats up, and becomes sizzling; but Veronica’s fears from her childhood days will make her push Bax away. Will Bax convince Veronica that their love is worth fighting for? Will Veronica be willing to give up her glitzy, cold life?
It was nice to see Elise and Gavin (heroes of the first book), though it was brief. I did like the addition of some of the homeless people, who both Bax and Veronica helped. Once again, Samantha Joyce has given us a wonderful story of a couple that are opposites, with some twists, life situations, and romance. I look forward to the next book in this series.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
November 14, 2016
*4.5 Stars Rounded Up
For more reviews like this, see my blog: Musings of Madjy
This was fantastic. Samantha Joyce is a wonderful storyteller and I seriously love how deep her characters are and the gentle way she includes serious issues.
This is the second book in this series and is Veronica's story. If you haven't read the first book, Veronica was a bitch in it and not especially likeable. The same can be said for the beginning of this story! (Don't worry, this is a standalone, but also a "companion" so the first book is referenced and Elise & Gavin crop up here and there). I was intrigued at how Joyce would make the previous book's "villain" someone I would eventually cheer for, and that is most certainly what happened! Veronica's character development is so well done from start to finish and she has so much more depth than you initially think, that she becomes endeared to you fairly quickly!
There is a "trigger warning" assault scene in this that helps to turn Veronica's world upside-down. It's written incredibly well and is a very believable catalyst to her accidentally allowing herself to be more vulnerable and open to what Baxter has to offer.
Baxter is a do-gooder but also grows throughout this story, seeing the world more for the many colors and shades of gray it is rather than just his early black & white. He is sweet but strong enough that he also puts Veronica in her place from their first meeting, which is always something I enjoy with a couple! There were so many fun scenes with these two and it was a delight to see Bax & Veronica's bond and trust growing in each one.
The deeper issues - homelessness, family problems - don't hit you over the head but make a solid impact on you and there is no mistaking how they affect the characters.
I honestly loved every minute of this!
I received an ARC from the publisher to voluntarily review. This is no way influenced my review. My opinion is my own.
For more reviews like this, see my blog: Musings of Madjy
This was fantastic. Samantha Joyce is a wonderful storyteller and I seriously love how deep her characters are and the gentle way she includes serious issues.
This is the second book in this series and is Veronica's story. If you haven't read the first book, Veronica was a bitch in it and not especially likeable. The same can be said for the beginning of this story! (Don't worry, this is a standalone, but also a "companion" so the first book is referenced and Elise & Gavin crop up here and there). I was intrigued at how Joyce would make the previous book's "villain" someone I would eventually cheer for, and that is most certainly what happened! Veronica's character development is so well done from start to finish and she has so much more depth than you initially think, that she becomes endeared to you fairly quickly!
There is a "trigger warning" assault scene in this that helps to turn Veronica's world upside-down. It's written incredibly well and is a very believable catalyst to her accidentally allowing herself to be more vulnerable and open to what Baxter has to offer.
Baxter is a do-gooder but also grows throughout this story, seeing the world more for the many colors and shades of gray it is rather than just his early black & white. He is sweet but strong enough that he also puts Veronica in her place from their first meeting, which is always something I enjoy with a couple! There were so many fun scenes with these two and it was a delight to see Bax & Veronica's bond and trust growing in each one.
The deeper issues - homelessness, family problems - don't hit you over the head but make a solid impact on you and there is no mistaking how they affect the characters.
I honestly loved every minute of this!
I received an ARC from the publisher to voluntarily review. This is no way influenced my review. My opinion is my own.
November 9, 2016
** ARC provided by the author for an honest review **
Dealing in Deception by Samantha Joyce was a 4 star read for me. It had tons of times that I laughed, even times that I wanted to slap a woman but it was a cute story about two people trying to find themselves and realizing the other person is helping them do that.
Veronica was an actress for hire that really never dealt with past hurts and has been hiding as other people ever since. When she meets Baxter a new possible client, she is a total witch to him and pretty much just puts him down from the beginning since he doesn't have alot of money. Baxter is trying one last hope to launch a new business but when he meets that last hope, he walks away since he doesn't particularly care for the way she treated him, even if she is hot. But when the two meet again, Baxter and Veronica try their hand at making Baxter seem like a business man and get what he wants and needs to make his business grow.
It was fun to read their thoughts about one another and just the banter back and forth kept me intrigued. I had not read the previous book by this author but I will be reading it now.
Reviewed by : Jennifer A
Dealing in Deception by Samantha Joyce was a 4 star read for me. It had tons of times that I laughed, even times that I wanted to slap a woman but it was a cute story about two people trying to find themselves and realizing the other person is helping them do that.
Veronica was an actress for hire that really never dealt with past hurts and has been hiding as other people ever since. When she meets Baxter a new possible client, she is a total witch to him and pretty much just puts him down from the beginning since he doesn't have alot of money. Baxter is trying one last hope to launch a new business but when he meets that last hope, he walks away since he doesn't particularly care for the way she treated him, even if she is hot. But when the two meet again, Baxter and Veronica try their hand at making Baxter seem like a business man and get what he wants and needs to make his business grow.
It was fun to read their thoughts about one another and just the banter back and forth kept me intrigued. I had not read the previous book by this author but I will be reading it now.
Reviewed by : Jennifer A
July 28, 2018
erlag: Goldmann
Erschienen: 16. Juli 2018
Seitenzahl: 336
Preis: 12,00€
Inhalt:
Die bildschöne Veronica Wilde ist Schauspielerin der etwas anderen Art. Für eine großzügige Gage schlüpft sie in jede Rolle. So spielt sie etwa die neue Freundin oder Geschäftspartnerin, um ihren Klienten zum Erfolg zu verhelfen. Als sie auf Baxter trifft, dem es nicht gelingt, Investoren für seine gemeinnützige Geschäftsidee zu finden, ist es Hass auf den ersten Blick. Doch als Veronica seinen Auftrag annimmt, wird schnell klar, dass Hass und Liebe nur allzu dicht beieinanderliegen. Denn Baxter ist alles andere als der gutmütige Trottel, für den Veronica ihn hält, und sie selbst verbirgt unter ihrer harten Schale ein gebrochenes Herz …
Quelle: amazon.de
Meinung:
Aufmerksam auf das Buch bin ich durch das wunderschöne Cover geworden, ich finde es ist total schön gestaltet mit dem nächtlichen Hintergrund, den Personen von hinten (Gesichter auf Büchern mag ich nicht so gerne), der glitzernden Schrift und den vielen Lichtpunkten. Es hat mich direkt in seinen Bann gezogen.
Der Anfang der Geschichte fand ich auch schon sehr interessant bzw. mal was anderes. Es geht hier nämlich um die Protagonistin Veronica, die als Auftragsschauspielerin arbeitet und somit bestimmten Personen bei ihren Angelegenheiten hilft. Zum Beispiel beginnt das Buch mit einem Fall, bei dem sie einem jungen Mann hilft, seine Ex-Freundin zurückzugewinnen. Das fand ich schon mal sehr spannend und auch der Schreibstil hat mir von Anfang an gefallen. Er war locker, leicht und sehr humorvoll, sodass ich teilweise echt lachen musste. Veronica trifft durch ihren Job eines Tages auf Baxter (genannt Bax), der Investoren sucht, um seine Geschäftsidee umzusetzen: Eine Decke für Obdachlose. So gehen Veronica und er eine geschäftliche Beziehung ein, aber schnell wird klar, dass zwischen den beiden doch noch etwas mehr ist.
Mir haben die beiden Protagonisten richtig gut gefallen. Bax war mir total sympathisch, da er mal nicht der typische Bad Boy ist, wie man ihn in den meisten Liebesgeschichten heutzutage findet. Er kümmert sich um andere und ist sehr liebenswürdig. Auch Veronica mochte ich ganz gerne. Die Geschichte ist aus der Ich-Perspektive immer abwechselnd aus Sicht der beiden Hauptpersonen geschrieben, was mir sehr gut gefallen hat.
Mir hat auch super gut gefallen, dass die Liebesgeschichte zwischen den beiden sich langsam entwickelt hat und nichts überstürzt wurde. Es sind zum Ende hin auch noch Dinge passiert, die mit der Vergangenheit von Veronica zu tun hatten und mit denen ich niemals gerechnet hätte. Ich mochte das Buch also sehr gerne und kann es euch auf jeden Fall empfehlen, wenn ihr Liebesgeschichten mögt. Das Buch war locker, leicht, lustig, und stellenweise auch traurig und total fesselnd und emotional, also ein guter Mix. Ich gebe dem Buch 4,5 Sterne.
Vielen Dank an das Bloggerportal und den Goldmann Verlag für die Bereitstellung des Rezensionsexemplars!
Erschienen: 16. Juli 2018
Seitenzahl: 336
Preis: 12,00€
Inhalt:
Die bildschöne Veronica Wilde ist Schauspielerin der etwas anderen Art. Für eine großzügige Gage schlüpft sie in jede Rolle. So spielt sie etwa die neue Freundin oder Geschäftspartnerin, um ihren Klienten zum Erfolg zu verhelfen. Als sie auf Baxter trifft, dem es nicht gelingt, Investoren für seine gemeinnützige Geschäftsidee zu finden, ist es Hass auf den ersten Blick. Doch als Veronica seinen Auftrag annimmt, wird schnell klar, dass Hass und Liebe nur allzu dicht beieinanderliegen. Denn Baxter ist alles andere als der gutmütige Trottel, für den Veronica ihn hält, und sie selbst verbirgt unter ihrer harten Schale ein gebrochenes Herz …
Quelle: amazon.de
Meinung:
Aufmerksam auf das Buch bin ich durch das wunderschöne Cover geworden, ich finde es ist total schön gestaltet mit dem nächtlichen Hintergrund, den Personen von hinten (Gesichter auf Büchern mag ich nicht so gerne), der glitzernden Schrift und den vielen Lichtpunkten. Es hat mich direkt in seinen Bann gezogen.
Der Anfang der Geschichte fand ich auch schon sehr interessant bzw. mal was anderes. Es geht hier nämlich um die Protagonistin Veronica, die als Auftragsschauspielerin arbeitet und somit bestimmten Personen bei ihren Angelegenheiten hilft. Zum Beispiel beginnt das Buch mit einem Fall, bei dem sie einem jungen Mann hilft, seine Ex-Freundin zurückzugewinnen. Das fand ich schon mal sehr spannend und auch der Schreibstil hat mir von Anfang an gefallen. Er war locker, leicht und sehr humorvoll, sodass ich teilweise echt lachen musste. Veronica trifft durch ihren Job eines Tages auf Baxter (genannt Bax), der Investoren sucht, um seine Geschäftsidee umzusetzen: Eine Decke für Obdachlose. So gehen Veronica und er eine geschäftliche Beziehung ein, aber schnell wird klar, dass zwischen den beiden doch noch etwas mehr ist.
Mir haben die beiden Protagonisten richtig gut gefallen. Bax war mir total sympathisch, da er mal nicht der typische Bad Boy ist, wie man ihn in den meisten Liebesgeschichten heutzutage findet. Er kümmert sich um andere und ist sehr liebenswürdig. Auch Veronica mochte ich ganz gerne. Die Geschichte ist aus der Ich-Perspektive immer abwechselnd aus Sicht der beiden Hauptpersonen geschrieben, was mir sehr gut gefallen hat.
Mir hat auch super gut gefallen, dass die Liebesgeschichte zwischen den beiden sich langsam entwickelt hat und nichts überstürzt wurde. Es sind zum Ende hin auch noch Dinge passiert, die mit der Vergangenheit von Veronica zu tun hatten und mit denen ich niemals gerechnet hätte. Ich mochte das Buch also sehr gerne und kann es euch auf jeden Fall empfehlen, wenn ihr Liebesgeschichten mögt. Das Buch war locker, leicht, lustig, und stellenweise auch traurig und total fesselnd und emotional, also ein guter Mix. Ich gebe dem Buch 4,5 Sterne.
Vielen Dank an das Bloggerportal und den Goldmann Verlag für die Bereitstellung des Rezensionsexemplars!
April 21, 2018
"That book was wrong. The devil doesn’t wear Prada. I’m pretty sure she wears Channel."This book was such a good surprise! I was expecting this clichéd romance novel, a light, quick read, but I got so much more than that! The romance in itself is realistic, well developed and natural. I like the whole 'i hate you to i love you' trope and it worked amazingly here. I also love the chemistry between the characters and how well they compliment each other - they are the best versions of themselves when they're together!
The author also deals with some pretty heavy topics surprisingly well - both characters have this complicated background and some things also happen to them during the novel. Veronica is such a badass, strong woman! We can understand where she comes from and why she's the way she is, and though she doesn't deal with her issues the best way, she still carries on and try to move on and hold on. Her development through the book is also amazing. Baxter is my new literary crush! He's genuinely good and has a huge heart. He really wants to help people, no matter the cost to him and it's beautiful. He cares so much! And he also grows a lot during the novel, in a more discreet way than Veronica.
The ending was nice, though a little predictable, but still so satisfying! Yes, there were some things at the end that made me feel like 'really, the author is going there?' and that felt like so romantic comedy-like and not in a good way, so maybe that's why I didn't give it 5 stars, but I didn't take from my enjoyment of this book. Highly recommended for fans of romance with a dash of drama e sexy bits.
May 24, 2017
Veronica has a business, a hire out real life actress you can pay to play any role in your life you need.
Bax is a businessman with a plan to help the homeless people he cares so much about investing in, yet no one will help him get a start.
A chance meeting sparks interest between the two as they get wrapped up into each others odd worlds through investment.
Set against lavish events, high end fashion and plenty of high class restaurants the pair soon realise that their investment between them may soon become investment into each other and even the future.
We see how Bax truly cares for Veronica as a tough times calls for support to be around her as secrets of her life come to light and reveal why she wants to act her life instead of live in her one.
It was a bit repetitive in the first half of the book apart from them meeting each others friends then as it got going and more events occurred the drama did amp up but I couldn't get fully immersed into the book despite thinking it was good overall.
Bax is a businessman with a plan to help the homeless people he cares so much about investing in, yet no one will help him get a start.
A chance meeting sparks interest between the two as they get wrapped up into each others odd worlds through investment.
Set against lavish events, high end fashion and plenty of high class restaurants the pair soon realise that their investment between them may soon become investment into each other and even the future.
We see how Bax truly cares for Veronica as a tough times calls for support to be around her as secrets of her life come to light and reveal why she wants to act her life instead of live in her one.
It was a bit repetitive in the first half of the book apart from them meeting each others friends then as it got going and more events occurred the drama did amp up but I couldn't get fully immersed into the book despite thinking it was good overall.
December 24, 2018
Ich hatte mich so sehr auf dieses Buch gefreut aber leider war's für mich der totale Reinfall! Das Cover ist ja wirklich wunderschön und ein totaler Blickfang! Die Geschichte klang auch richtig gut, aber die Umsetzung ist leider einfach nur schlecht.Ich wurde mit den Protagonisten nicht warm, fand sie unnahbar und teilweise nervig. Nach 80 Seiten habe ich dann das Buch abgebrochen, da sich die Geschichte einfach so unglaublich in die Länge zieht, sodass ich keine Lust mehr aufs weiterlesen hatte.
Verschenktes Potential!
Verschenktes Potential!
April 29, 2021
a refreshing nice plot, i really enjoyed reading this!
September 14, 2023
I loved it halfway through the book, and then the author went and crammed the rest of it in like 20 pages.
October 29, 2016
via netgalley
a great read. really liking this author.
a great read. really liking this author.
February 10, 2017
Previously reviewed on The Good, The Bad, and The Unread:
I really enjoyed the first book in this series, not least for its charming-but-shy Deaf heroine, and her ability to overcome all adversities, including the woman posing as her, initially unsanctioned: then later as a means to take attention away from the real protagonist of the story. This sequel turns that idea on its head and focusses on Veronica Wilde, the woman who has gone on to make a career out of posing as other people in a variety of public and not-so-public settings. As Veronica was a bit of an anti-heroine in the first book, I was interested to see how she would alter her behaviours in order to act as the heroine of this book.
Although this is a sequel, and in some respects requires knowledge of past events in order to understand who our heroine is and how she forged her current career, we see very little of the characters and settings from the first book and receive few indications at first as to exactly how much time has passed or how Veronica has apparently managed to build up her clientele so rapidly. Instead, we first meet Veronica when she’s posing as the girlfriend of a man intent on reigniting his ex’s interest in him. The plan works even better than either expected, and Veronica finds herself with a free evening and a surprisingly wistful feeling toward the happy couple. Not one to worry about such details, however, she sets out to enjoy herself and spend some of the money she’s earned partying like – and with – a rock star.
As a total contrast to Veronica’s high-octane (and high-maintenance) lifestyle, former accountant and would-be entrepreneur Baxter Linton is determined to make a remarkable difference to as many people’s lives as possible. While working with homeless people, he has come up with a new kind of blanket that will provide insulation on even the coldest nights out of doors. His only problem is that of convincing at least one backer that this project is worth their investment. Fortunately, a friend suggests hiring Veronica to pose as his business partner to make the operation look like more than a one-man-band.
Veronica is sceptical, but agrees to work with Baxter to improve his image and secure a backer. As they begin working together, Baxter becomes curious about Veronica’s background and slowly learns about the family she walked away from – and has no intention of reconnecting with. Nevertheless, Veronica learns more about Baxter – and about herself – than she ever anticipated, and events eventually conspire to give her a shot at a real relationship in which she can be herself.
This book really didn’t grab me the way the first one in the series did. It had a lot to live up to and felt a little too much as if it was piggybacking off the success of the previous book without incorporating many of the features I loved about that one. On the other hand, we do eventually get to catch up with Elise and Gavin from Flirting with Fame and see how life’s been treating them. Rather a disappointment overall, but I’ll still be watching out for more from the author.
I really enjoyed the first book in this series, not least for its charming-but-shy Deaf heroine, and her ability to overcome all adversities, including the woman posing as her, initially unsanctioned: then later as a means to take attention away from the real protagonist of the story. This sequel turns that idea on its head and focusses on Veronica Wilde, the woman who has gone on to make a career out of posing as other people in a variety of public and not-so-public settings. As Veronica was a bit of an anti-heroine in the first book, I was interested to see how she would alter her behaviours in order to act as the heroine of this book.
Although this is a sequel, and in some respects requires knowledge of past events in order to understand who our heroine is and how she forged her current career, we see very little of the characters and settings from the first book and receive few indications at first as to exactly how much time has passed or how Veronica has apparently managed to build up her clientele so rapidly. Instead, we first meet Veronica when she’s posing as the girlfriend of a man intent on reigniting his ex’s interest in him. The plan works even better than either expected, and Veronica finds herself with a free evening and a surprisingly wistful feeling toward the happy couple. Not one to worry about such details, however, she sets out to enjoy herself and spend some of the money she’s earned partying like – and with – a rock star.
As a total contrast to Veronica’s high-octane (and high-maintenance) lifestyle, former accountant and would-be entrepreneur Baxter Linton is determined to make a remarkable difference to as many people’s lives as possible. While working with homeless people, he has come up with a new kind of blanket that will provide insulation on even the coldest nights out of doors. His only problem is that of convincing at least one backer that this project is worth their investment. Fortunately, a friend suggests hiring Veronica to pose as his business partner to make the operation look like more than a one-man-band.
Veronica is sceptical, but agrees to work with Baxter to improve his image and secure a backer. As they begin working together, Baxter becomes curious about Veronica’s background and slowly learns about the family she walked away from – and has no intention of reconnecting with. Nevertheless, Veronica learns more about Baxter – and about herself – than she ever anticipated, and events eventually conspire to give her a shot at a real relationship in which she can be herself.
This book really didn’t grab me the way the first one in the series did. It had a lot to live up to and felt a little too much as if it was piggybacking off the success of the previous book without incorporating many of the features I loved about that one. On the other hand, we do eventually get to catch up with Elise and Gavin from Flirting with Fame and see how life’s been treating them. Rather a disappointment overall, but I’ll still be watching out for more from the author.
December 5, 2016
~5 + Stars~
OMG!!! I absolutely ADORED this book! I have so many thoughts running through my head, so I hope I can convey them clearly! Veronica appeared in the first book of the series, Flirting With Fame. Now, she gets her very own story, and what a story it is!!!
Veronica makes a living pretending to be other people. Her clients pay big for her to be a pretend girlfriend, or a business partner, whatever the job calls for. She has strict rules…no touching, no sex, and definitely no falling in love. Her philosophy and her whole entire life will be turned upside down when Baxter aka Bax becomes her new client. He infuriates her, yet challenges her, and has done a miracle..made her smile. As they spend more time together, Bax knocks down the walls she has erected around her heart. The question is whether she will let him see the real person, and if he does, will he stay?
I’ll be honest with you. Veronica was definitely not my favorite character in the beginning. I thought she had a heart made of ice. She was a snob and condescending, looking down on others who don’t have the material things she has. She will learn through Bax that those material things really don’t matter. As I read more, I like Bax, discovered why Veronica is the way she is and why she likes being different people. When I did, my heart broke for her. Instead of seeing her as cold, I began seeing her through Bax’s eyes. Her cold heart hid a scared little girl. I saw her as strong instead of distant. I enjoyed watching her figure out who she really was. Now, Baxter was different. I adored him. He’s sexy yet has a giving heart. He cares more about others than he does himself. My favorite thing about him though is how he gets under Veronica’s skin whether he is making her mad or making her have illicit thoughts of him. He’s just perfect for her!
I haven’t read anything by Samantha Joyce before, but you better believe I’ll be reading more, starting with her first book in the series. I was drawn into this book from the very first page. It was intelligent, at times sad and funny, and very well-written and done in such a way that I was there in the book with them, whether it was a high class restaurant, Bax’s apartment, or in the snow. So, I challenge you to start this one today. I bet you will love Baxter and his golden retriever, Ari, as much as I did!
***Read on behalf of Once Upon an Alpha***
***Copy provided in exchange for an honest and unbiased review***
OMG!!! I absolutely ADORED this book! I have so many thoughts running through my head, so I hope I can convey them clearly! Veronica appeared in the first book of the series, Flirting With Fame. Now, she gets her very own story, and what a story it is!!!
Veronica makes a living pretending to be other people. Her clients pay big for her to be a pretend girlfriend, or a business partner, whatever the job calls for. She has strict rules…no touching, no sex, and definitely no falling in love. Her philosophy and her whole entire life will be turned upside down when Baxter aka Bax becomes her new client. He infuriates her, yet challenges her, and has done a miracle..made her smile. As they spend more time together, Bax knocks down the walls she has erected around her heart. The question is whether she will let him see the real person, and if he does, will he stay?
I’ll be honest with you. Veronica was definitely not my favorite character in the beginning. I thought she had a heart made of ice. She was a snob and condescending, looking down on others who don’t have the material things she has. She will learn through Bax that those material things really don’t matter. As I read more, I like Bax, discovered why Veronica is the way she is and why she likes being different people. When I did, my heart broke for her. Instead of seeing her as cold, I began seeing her through Bax’s eyes. Her cold heart hid a scared little girl. I saw her as strong instead of distant. I enjoyed watching her figure out who she really was. Now, Baxter was different. I adored him. He’s sexy yet has a giving heart. He cares more about others than he does himself. My favorite thing about him though is how he gets under Veronica’s skin whether he is making her mad or making her have illicit thoughts of him. He’s just perfect for her!
I haven’t read anything by Samantha Joyce before, but you better believe I’ll be reading more, starting with her first book in the series. I was drawn into this book from the very first page. It was intelligent, at times sad and funny, and very well-written and done in such a way that I was there in the book with them, whether it was a high class restaurant, Bax’s apartment, or in the snow. So, I challenge you to start this one today. I bet you will love Baxter and his golden retriever, Ari, as much as I did!
***Read on behalf of Once Upon an Alpha***
***Copy provided in exchange for an honest and unbiased review***
December 1, 2016
Dealing In Deception...
Sarah, Cassandra, Silvia, Rachel...A rose by any other name...
None of her clients know her real name. None of her...(coughs) relationships do either. When no one knows your name, do they truly know you?
Her job is to be anyone. He hires her for her help.
She doesn't like him. He is pretty sure she's the opposite of what he needs.
With a money back guarantee, he can't turn her down, can he? But when he does, she won't accept. Neither is willing to quit but for different reasons.
But when you are dealing in deception, when do you know what's real?
I absolutely love the snarky (rhymes with twitchy) banter that seems to spew from Veronica's pouting mouth. I love the down to earth but head in the clouds kind of guy Bax is. I could surround you with funny quotes and even better snippets from the book, but I think you'd have a much better time reading it yourself.
Just remember the importance of quality adult time.(smirks)
Book received in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed on behalf of Once Upon An Alpha
Sarah, Cassandra, Silvia, Rachel...A rose by any other name...
None of her clients know her real name. None of her...(coughs) relationships do either. When no one knows your name, do they truly know you?
Her job is to be anyone. He hires her for her help.
She doesn't like him. He is pretty sure she's the opposite of what he needs.
With a money back guarantee, he can't turn her down, can he? But when he does, she won't accept. Neither is willing to quit but for different reasons.
But when you are dealing in deception, when do you know what's real?
I absolutely love the snarky (rhymes with twitchy) banter that seems to spew from Veronica's pouting mouth. I love the down to earth but head in the clouds kind of guy Bax is. I could surround you with funny quotes and even better snippets from the book, but I think you'd have a much better time reading it yourself.
Just remember the importance of quality adult time.(smirks)
Book received in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed on behalf of Once Upon An Alpha
December 27, 2016
Veronica is a very successful actress, who plays the part of whatever she's asked to play; new girlfriend, wingwoman, business partner. She's got the looks and connections and poise to fit in anywhere from a crappy bar to a charity dinner. Baxter is a do-gooder with a heart of gold and a brilliant idea, if he can only find the right investor.
Disclaimer: I am acquainted with the author via social media and received a free copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
I did not read the earlier novel, and this worked fine for me as a stand alone. Set in Washington DC, the tone is light and fun, despite dealing with some serious issues like homelessness and mental illness. I was definitely rooting for Baxter and Veronica to come together at the end, and for his business idea to succeed.
Disclaimer: I am acquainted with the author via social media and received a free copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
I did not read the earlier novel, and this worked fine for me as a stand alone. Set in Washington DC, the tone is light and fun, despite dealing with some serious issues like homelessness and mental illness. I was definitely rooting for Baxter and Veronica to come together at the end, and for his business idea to succeed.
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