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The Shadow Series #2

Shadow of Deceit

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Love! Julia Croft never thought she would actually fall in love with the man she set out to mislead. Surely he would forgive her if he knew the truth? Could he be so cold-hearted as to not see what her brother meant to her? Would he see that it was a matter of life and death that brought her to this deceitfulness?

Deceived! How could Caleb Armstrong, have allowed himself to be drawn into being enticed by a woman who merely used him? Now that he knew her ruse, he could easily rid himself of Julia Croft and her brother Miles. Surely there was a woman somewhere who could overlook his gimp leg. The most plaguing problem would be—could his heart ever forget her? Content: clean with mild sexual innuendos.

166 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 20, 2016

44 people are currently reading
57 people want to read

About the author

Barbara Goss

106 books70 followers
AKA Barbara A. Masci & Barbara Masci-Goss

From Kindle Author Page:

Barbara Masci Goss is now just Barbara Goss. I live in Western New York State and have three grown sons, two step daughters and 10 grandchildren. I wrote my books in the early '90's and now that I'm retired I have obtained the book rights and am converting them to Kindle. That's exciting for me because I don't read paper books at all anymore. I have designed new covers with a new author name: Barbara Goss. My first two books "Captured Heart" and "Forbidden Legacy" went to a second printing in the mid '90's and the publisher added my name as Barbara Masci-Goss, but I now prefer to keep it short and sweet.

From Author Website:

I'm from Western New York, and I live with my husband and two cats, Mandy and Molly.


I wrote these books in the early 1990's in paperback. My publishers were Fleming Revell and Baker Book House.


Now, I have the rights and have put them out on E-Books so people can still enjoy them.


My goal in writing these books is to provide clean but still romantic and adventurous novels for all ages. I've always felt that we needed more clean, wholesome books. When I wrote these books there were but a handful of Christian romance writers. Now, thankfully there are more. My biggest influence in writing was Grace Livingston Hill. Enjoy.

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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
Profile Image for Lori D.
4,080 reviews131 followers
March 23, 2020
One of the best series ever!! Barbara Goss knows exactly how to pull me into her stories and when you listen to them in audible, it brings out an entirely new dimension. I am truly addicted to her books and to audible!! The wounded hero or heroine or maybe both, needing redemption and finding faith which helps to bring them through. Finding that God forgives all and is always there for us if we believe.
With Tom Jordan narrating, it was perfect! His inflections an different voices for the characters quickly pulled me in and I listened every free second I had!
This is the story of Julia and Caleb and their journey together.
Profile Image for Cynthia.
2,097 reviews22 followers
July 29, 2017
I really loved the plot and the story it really pulls you in to the mystery of Julia who she really is, why does she needs a rich man and who is Billy? She went from almost predator preying on a rich man to this really sweet shy unsure woman. I really wanted to say would the real Julia stand up. That really throw me I was expecting her to come back as this really sassy lady who took control when she same back as the shy sweet little thing. I am not saying this is bad it just throw me and maybe me wonder if when she hit her head it may have changed her personality.

Mr. Jordan with his very talented voice blow me out of the ballpark from his tones to his deep sexy male voice and his sweet females that are sassy, sweet and just darling. His performance is outstanding as he pulls deep inside to bring out the emotion each character is feeling bring to life a very emotional story of deceit, family love and play games with people’s emotions to save the one thing that is important to one family. If any breaks where taken I could not tell, there are no background noises, no volume change nor any repeating of words. It is a very clean and clear audio that the narrator brings to life pulling on your heartstrings. You have no trouble knowing who is talking and just what they are feeling. You can hear the anger, excitement, and sorrow in his tones as he gives a compelling performance. This is the second audio of his I have listened to, it was just as wonderful as the first.

I thought this was a very meaningful story that really hooks you. There is a powerful message not only of God but of forgiveness which doesn’t always mean you forget this is very true to our normal life. It made me really wonder can you really forgive if you can’t forget. How can you forgive if the past deed keeps going through your mind? I really liked how religion was bought into it but isn’t the big part of the story. It is a story of deception it maybe for a good cause but it still is dishonest. I really think Caleb would have given the money had Julia been upfront in her defense she had no way of knowing that. The author really makes one think how far and what will you do to save a person you love. The only issue I had was the about face Julia did for me it just wasn’t smooth. She wasn’t evil and she didn’t come across as a spoiled brat just somewhere in between one minute she is so big, a little overpowering, she comes across as a user out to get what she can and the next she was shy unsure of herself. Besides that I thought it was a great story with a powerful message and one that makes us step back and think about how we deal with issues.

From the first book Caleb stole my heart wanting a family so much but with his disability making him feel that he would never find a woman. I really thought he was going to turn to someone else but there is a twist in the story which gets a little complicated. All in all it was a very enjoyable listen full of heartbreak, lies, but the important part here is learning to forgive, forget and get past so love can grow. It is learning to trust someone who let you down, if you can get past that than you can work out anything.
Profile Image for Heather.
439 reviews4 followers
September 26, 2017
Caleb Armstrong was injured in a farm accident and now walks with a limp. Despite his handsome face, he's convinced that no woman would want to marry a crippled man. He was left an inheritance by an aunt, but hides his wealth to avoid attracting women who would only marry him for his money. Desperately lonely, he considers sending away for a mail order bride.

Julia Croft arrives in town, and to Caleb's surprise she actually flirts with him. She wants to spend time with him, and Caleb finally dares to hope that he's found a woman to love him despite his limp. But Julia has an ulterior motive that may damage any chance at a relationship between them.

This is the second book in the Shadow series, but can be read as a standalone story with no cliffhanger. Caleb was one of my favorite characters in Shadow of Shame and it was great to see him get his happy ending. There were several possible love interests introduced for Caleb so it kept me guessing, but in the end he was paired up with his perfect match.

Barbara Goss weaves a Christian message into each of her novels, but it's never heavy handed. The theme in this story was forgiveness. It's always a pleasure to read her real life application of the theme.

The narrator did a great job, he has a deep voice that's pleasant to listen to. He reads at a good pace and manages the speaking voices well. I received a copy of the audiobook, and I'm voluntarily leaving a review.
2,319 reviews11 followers
July 15, 2017
With Barbara Goss' stories I always take a moment to reflect at the end and see what lesson she was writing about.
In this book I think it is that the truth will out and when it does, it may hurt some people but it will probably do more good than not and also that it is preferable not to be conniving nor to lie. If you need help, then ask for it.
But these are my own thoughts and opinions on this story and yours may differ.
As usual Barbara has written a lovely story about two different, yet connected pairs of people who meet and fall in love. Their lives are interwoven and shadowed by the lies and deceit of a brother and sister. Only when these lies are brought to light and faced head-on can these two couples learn to trust again.j
Tom Jordan has a 'voice' I for one could easily fall in love with. Jokes aside, it is a beautiful one and he uses it to the full to enhance this book. Just wonderful!
The audiobook version was provided by the author at no cost and this is my honest and unbiased review.
Profile Image for Reader_for_LifeTLG.
2,755 reviews17 followers
January 27, 2022
I listened to the audiobook.

Two sets of lovers get their HEA in this moving story of love that starts with a lie and ends in happiness. The narrator does a great job bringing the story to life. Caleb is wary of seeking a mate because of a limp caused by his foolish bravado. He is taken in by Julia's seeming sweetness. He had no idea she was just using him for his money, noble though the cause might have been. She completes her mission to save her brother, but is injured in the doing, getting a slight case of amnesia. When she regains her memories, her actions prove her worthy of Caleb's love.

Miles, Julia's reluctant partner in hurting Caleb, falls for Violet, Ivy's sister. Ivy doesn't take too kindly to her "brother" being hurt and has no problem letting Miles know. She might love him, but family comes first. When he proves his sincere regret, only then will she reopen her heart to him.
Profile Image for Elissa.
Author 39 books109 followers
August 27, 2017
I quite enjoyed the intricacies of the various couplings being attempted among the characters. This is the second of this series set in Abilene but links to Hayes and Victoria in other series. Although the first book gives the background of some of the characters and this tale picks up where the last left off, it is, nonetheless, completely standalone. I always like to know that as, if NOT forewarned, I am unhappy about cliffhangers. (If, on the other hand, I know going in, then I can enjoy a serial read. They tend to have a greater "Perils of Pauline" flavor and can be quite fun.)

AUDIO narration is excellent with good attention to characterizations and voicings, enhancing an interesting story which highlights the joys of a modern kitchen (in-house pump) and well-located outhouse.
Profile Image for Dana Redding.
486 reviews1 follower
October 8, 2019
Shadow of Deceit

Caleb was hurt by a bull years ago and walks with a limp. No one wants to marry him so he thinks. He is a wealthy man and works with his father. They own a sawmill together. His brother just got married and Caleb is feeling sorry for his self.
He speaks to his father about finding someone to love, but in comes Julia her brother works for a bank and she tells him that their other brother is in trouble with gambling, she begs him to tell her about anyone who is wealthy, she talks Caleb into giving her money to help her brother, they fall in love but she doesn’t return, Caleb is heart broken.

Good book I enjoyed reading this book.
Profile Image for Ashley Hedden.
5,259 reviews43 followers
September 6, 2017
Shadow of Deceit by Barbara Goss was a great read. Who would think that love could come from a terrible deceit. Julia Croft has good intentions but doesn't realize the hurt she will cause. Caleb feels like no woman will ever love him since he has a limp when he walks. I loved reading this book and cant wait to read more by Barbara Goss.
1,233 reviews3 followers
September 30, 2019
This saccharin-sweet Christian-based western novel maintained my interest with a novel plot, different from the typical stereo-type genre. Was even a wee bit spicier than most, but remained within the proper guidelines. Lovely cover with alluring title attracts the reader. Yet, the overall moral of the story involved forgiveness which resulted in a happily-ever-after ending.
Profile Image for Tammy Bulcao.
918 reviews11 followers
January 13, 2021
Charming!💜

I’m not a period lover but so far these books are so well written that other than the reference to the mode of transportation, it felt very current. Complete with real life issues, family drama and romance, this was a heartfelt story with great characters. The narration was very good.
This is book 2 and can be read as a standalone.

Sisters Spotlight 💜
Profile Image for Rose.
382 reviews
April 28, 2021
I enjoyed this book. The characters were fun and we'll developed. Love is both tested and proven in this story. I enjoyed the plot and how things played out.

For those who may be put off by it, there are a couple of passionate kisses that mention them tongue.

The narrative was well done.

I received a free copy of this audiobook from the author and I am voluntarily leaving this review.
40 reviews1 follower
January 21, 2024
Shadow of Deceit

I have five of this seven book series. This is the second one I have read and I have found them both delightful reads. It's suspenseful when the Christians get involved with the corruption of the world, but make their sense of honor, integrity and morals be a beneficial influence. I will continue with the third book asap.
Profile Image for Marty Moore.
762 reviews2 followers
September 8, 2019
There is a great lesson in this story.

There is a great lesson in this story. Barb Goss, has a gift where she can write a great story, but within that story is a lesson. She brings God's love and mercy front and center in every story.
454 reviews1 follower
September 30, 2019
He thinks that no women would want him because of a limp

She needs money to save her brother and she uses him to get it . Story is written good how they get their trust back for each other so they can be together.
959 reviews3 followers
June 21, 2017
Shadow of Deceit

This book is awesome. I loved how Caleb and Julie worked their problems out and realized that they loved each other
547 reviews
July 17, 2017
Audiobook Review
Enjoyable sweet clean love story, good narrative by Tom Jordan.
Profile Image for Barbara.
1,216 reviews27 followers
July 29, 2020
An enjoyable clean romance by Barbara Goss. The narrator was okay.
I received this audiobook for free for an honest review.
Profile Image for Tammy Gardner.
15 reviews1 follower
June 15, 2016
Another book written by Barbara Goss that I could not put down. I read it in a single evening with bloodshot eyes, and it was totally worth it!

I don't know how she is able to top her latest book every single time. I thought she was going to have a hard time topping Shadow of Shame, but she didn't. I love that her books are "G" rated as many of her readers state. I am not into explicit love stories at all.

It was miraculous how I found Barbara because it was only through another writer(TK Chapin) that I found her in the first place. She is one of the few authors that has a message that we can all relate to even if you are not a Christian. I see many aspects of the Bible in a new and different light in every single book I read of hers. I am one of the people, who has a hard time interpreting the Bible, so every time Barbara Goss has a book come out, I want it because in a round about way she goes into depth about a concept that you may not have thought about before. In this book it is about, redemption, trust, forgiveness, and loving someone on the inside and out for all their imperfections! No one is perfect, and this book puts an emphasis on that! However, if I had to chose one main concept throughout this book it would be that we have to forgive because God forgives us when we ask for it, but we are not required to forget. Forgiving is the easier part of these two concepts. How can you forget what someone has done to you, and continue a relationship with that person? We are not required to maintain a relationship with someone who hurt us. This book is actually two stories in one, but you will have to read it to find out. This is a story between three families: the Croft's, the Jefferies', and the Armstrongs'.

Caleb was in a bull accident when he was younger, but due to this unfortunate accident, he now walks with a limp. As Caleb always said who would love him with a limp. One day a girl named Julia Croft walks into his business with her brother, and Caleb is instantly drawn to her. She is very beautiful. However, he knows that she will not give him the time of day because of his limp. However, it appears she does not seem to notice his limp, which starts to boost his confidence. However, unbeknownst to him, she has a plan of her own. She needs money fast. One thing she did not expect was to start having feelings for him. Her goal was only to manipulate him and not to fall in love. As usual there are so many twists and turns in this story that you will find yourself flipping (or tapping depending on your device) from page to page to find out what will happen next. When Caleb finds out will he forgive her, and take her back? What has happened to Caleb's heart? Will he be able to love again? How does a man get over the love of his life, and move on? Will there be a happy ending for Caleb and Julia? You will just have to read the book to find out, and with that said there are so many different stories within the main story, but I won't go into detail because that would give the book away. I WAS NOT ABLE TO PUT THIS BOOK DOWN!! THE NIGHT I PICKED IT UP, MY HUSBAND AND I INTENDED TO WATCH A MOVIE, BUT BARBARA GOSS WON ONCE AGAIN!!!!!!!!

Also I love how she intertwined characters from the Hays series. It was great catching up with some of the characters!

Barbara is writing because she wants to encourage us, and to get God's word out there. When an author sells a book for 2.99, you know that they are not in it for the money. She even has a sale this week on her older novels for .99. She has already touched my life in a way I never imagined, and I hope she touches yours too. We live in a complex world, and at the end of the day, I know I need God's promises for tomorrow!
Profile Image for Liz Austin.
115 reviews1 follower
May 31, 2016
Goss never disappoints! Yet another wonderful read! I think it's safe to say that The Shadow series is going to be one of those series that gets even better with each book, though I didn't think that was possible after reading the phenomenal first book, Shadow of Shame.

In Shadow of Deceit, we follow Jonas' (main male character in Shame) brother Caleb through some pretty difficult times. Caleb was dealt a bad hand in life after being gored by a bull and left to limp on a bad leg for the rest of his life. Understandably, he's very self conscious about the limp, so when a beautiful woman walks into his life, shows a romantic interest in him, and most importantly, pays no attention to his limp, Caleb finds himself contemplating giving love a chance. But will he be able to forgive a deceitful woman? Will he be able to get past his insecurity? Or will he turn to another beautiful young woman?

Julia is a beautiful but desperate young woman, when she finds out that Caleb Armstrong is rich, she sees an opportunity that she can't pass up. What she didn't see coming was her feelings for Caleb. Will her deceit end up ruining the best thing she's ever had?

This is a wonderful story, focusing on the power of forgiveness. I love that all of Goss' stories carry a beautiful Christian message; you always end up taking a deeper spiritual message away with you. Goss is a superb writer, one that expertly draws you in and holds you right through to the end. I love her series because she does an excellent job of introducing characters and making the reader feel like they know them. By the end of the first book, you're thoroughly invested in all of the characters and their lives. In Shadow of Deceit, we not only follow Caleb and new character Julia, but we also get to follow Violet (Ivy Jeffries' sister) and a few others.

I found myself constantly flip flopping back and forth between who I though Caleb would end up with, but in the end, no matter who you were rooting for, Goss brings you around in time to love the choice that Caleb makes and the way he goes about it. ;)

This is a must read!
2,294 reviews83 followers
September 10, 2022
Barbara Goss does not disappoint! This is book two in the series and I enjoyed the first one tremendously! This book picks up with the story of Caleb while book one was the story of his brother Jonas! Caleb is a (secretly) rich and handsome fellow but he walks with a limp and a chip on his shoulder! He doesn’t think he’s worthy of a woman’s attention so when one starts showering him with her smiles, he doesn’t know how to react! When he gets burned, will his heart take a chance on love again or will he fall back to his comfort of self-hate? Lots of twists and turns in this exciting love story with several other love stories going on at once! I can’t thank you enough for reminding us all of our worth in God’s eyes despite man’s flaws! Each time I read one of your books I grow in my walk with the Lord! Please keep them coming Barbara! The world is a better place with you writing!
Profile Image for Bhriv.
604 reviews27 followers
December 7, 2016
Shadow of Deceit, written by Barbara Goss, is book 2 of the Shadow Series.

My favorite character that Goss introduced us to was Julia. She's a stinker that one! She brought a lot to the story...deceit, love, drama, dedication, dishonesty, faithfulness, hard working, 'give me' attitude, no biscuits, and so much more!

Although there is plenty of kissing and romancing in this book, it's a clean read! Thoroughly enjoyed it!
Profile Image for Patti Brennan.
269 reviews
July 9, 2016
Great book

I recommend this book to anyone who likes love stories. It is my second book in the series and I am going to read the next can't wait.
12 reviews
September 23, 2016
Great story

Enjoyed the different parts of this whole story
Well written once I started I could not put it down until the end
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