Izzy has had a long line of liars make up her past. It’s her history that makes her in high demand as an Art Authenticator. She can spot a fraud, as well as a forgery with little effort. Izzy no longer makes room in her life for men since she knows all men lie. She would rather have a dog. That is until Caleb Matthews sweeps her off her feet with his genuine, sincere, no-nonsense way. Over time, she allows him to break down her walls of mistrust. She learns how to make allowances for people that may be flawed, and not always entirely honest. But is that wise? After 25 years of marriage she begins to suspect there’s more to her husband then what she’s known. No matter how she tries, she can’t find anything amiss. Is her paranoia from being deceived in her past sabotaging her future or is there something more she’s missing?Whatever you imagine the end will be may have a bit of truth, but you won’t see the twist until it’s too late.
Superbly told tale about love, family and deceit that also goes a step further and uncovers the inner workings of a sociopath's/psychopath's mind. Why does he/she do what he/she does? What does he/she think or feel? Is it nature or nurture that creates the monsters that terrify the innocent? These questions are pondered and some are answered in this romantic thriller.
{Possible Spoiler Alerts} This book had a -stunner- twist at the end and information I didn't know about one of my favorite animals... Wow. The female protagonist went through hell and I almost stopped reading the book after an incident with her pet at the beginning of the book but I kept on because the author had me hooked and I'm glad I did. Definitely a must read!
Laura has written a story with an eye for an inner intimacy of her characters. You are in the midst of their lives, seeing and feeling all as they do. Giving them strength by allowing them to work through their own vulnerabilities and fears. Although sometimes moving slowly, the need to know how this is going to end, keeps the reader intrigued.
Izzy's life is not what it seems, it never has. Living her life to her potential and finding happiness with what she has, is her truth. Her children she gave her all. Being able to build a relationship with her brother that had been nonexistent before. Her marriage, Caleb wasn't perfect, but she did love him, at one time. When the truth cannot be ignored any longer, she can only pray she survives the path she has chosen.
When evil can no longer be ignored, survival is the only thing Izzy can focus on. The evil she finds surrounding her, the years that it has taken from her and her family is her push to find freedom from the darkness that has clouded her for too long.
A great story of family, trust, lies, betrayal, hope and the ability to see a glimmer of light at the end of a dark tunnel.
Deception by Laura Ranger I really loved this book. I finished it in one and a half days and I work 10 hour days. I just couldn't go to bed until I finished it. I was totally engrossed. Now, how do I tell you how great Deception is with no spoilers?? Izzy Greenblat has her dream job as an Art Authenticator and she abhors LIARS. Everyone lied to her, even her parents. Then Izzy met Caleb Matthews. He is warm, tender, suave and sinfully handsome. Caleb only has eyes for Izzy, he was even tested by her sorority sisters. Caleb passed with flying colors and Izzy fell hard. Izzy and Caleb married and embarked on their luxurious honeymoon. Life was glorious and Caleb was so attetive to Izzy now that she is pregnant with their princess, Sienna Joy. Caleb uses work for his absence at the birth of his daughter. He even missed the birth of their second child, Ramey. Izzy wants the truth no matter how she has to get it. But is Izzy prepared for the whole truth from Caleb due to all his lies. When you think you know what is going to happen. NOPE!! You Don't. You will not believe how this story ends. Phenominal ending for sure. I give this book a 5 star rating and I hope all you readers will give it a try. Excellant story and perfect ending.
Honestly I'm not entirely sure what I was expecting from this book. I spent a lot of time waiting for the big thing to happen. 70 odd % in and I was beginning to wonder if I was ever going to get there. When I did, it was exactly what I thought it would be. There isn't really any big surprise. No twists, like I usually expect from suspense reads like this. I am a little surprised that Caleb managed to get away with 70 odd murders, considering he frequented the same bars as Izzy's friends. But hey, obviously they've not got very good observational skills. For me, it's all a little bit wishy washy. There is a shell of a long lead up the action. I'd rather have a bit more grit than Izzy's constant moaning. Her repetitive " you know I hate liars" speeches got a bit boring.
I would have loved to have seen more of Caleb. His behaviour intrigued me. His actions, his mindset, his history. I feel that being in his head would have set this book apart.
Having said all that, it's a catchy read with intriguing characters and a page turning feel to it. It's a middle of the road, so on the fence type of book for those of you who enjoy a good suspense read without all the gore!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
Deception by Laura Ranger is one of those reads that will stay with you long after you've finished. It was a thrilling ride with an ending you did NOT see coming. The author did an amazing job on both the story and the characters. Some I loved and some I hated. Like really hated. Good job Miss Ranger! Right from the beginning the story pulled me in. I devoured the whole book in record time! I felt many emotions while reading this book. It ranged from “aww how happy!” to “omg what the heck!” to “wow, I didn’t see that coming.”
If you’re a fan of a thrilling and suspenseful read that’s different from what’s out there, this book is for you! I promise you won’t be disappointed! I give this 5 stars!
Isabelle’s distaste for liars came early in life. “Izzy” weathers her share of problems in life, and thinks this is all behind her when she meets handsome, interesting, passionate Caleb. Even though he tickles her gut instinct, she ignores this…until a stunning revelation after their youngest child has left for college, and Izzy fights demons more powerful than any childhood trauma. I had goosebumps at the chilling end to Izzy’s tale. "Deception" by Laura Ranger is a terrifying lesson to listen to our instincts!
A great story which reemphasizes the lesson to always listen to your gut and to beware of a wolf in sheep’s clothing. Terrific writing and great editing keep the reader engaged throughout this tale, while curbing the craving for a sexy HEA at the end.