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The Delusion #2

The Deception

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Less than a year after the horrific Masonville High shooting, Owen is determined to uncover why the Creepers have converged on his land and the school—a necessary step in his mission to drive evil forces out of his town.

A supernatural visitor tests Owen’s ability to discern between truth and lies as the community is rocked by abductions and disappearances. While the town comes together to find those who are missing, Owen must fight to discover what is real and what is part of a strategy to distract him from his true purpose.

Will Owen’s courage and conviction waver or hold firm as he to fights to free Masonville from the demonic forces threatening to tear the town apart?

285 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 3, 2019

72 people are currently reading
397 people want to read

About the author

Laura Gallier

13 books109 followers
In a youth culture intrigued by the paranormal yet often skeptical of biblical claims, Laura Gallier seeks to bring awareness and understanding to issues surrounding the supernatural. Having battled her own enemies of the soul throughout her teen and young adult years, she is on a mission to expose deception with the light of truth, bringing hope and healing to a generation in need. Laura lives in the greater Houston area with her husband, Patrick, and their three children. Get to know Laura better at www.lauragallier.com.

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5 stars
228 (61%)
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113 (30%)
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26 (6%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
Profile Image for Kyera.
39 reviews1 follower
June 14, 2025
Y'all, this series is AMAZING.
Profile Image for Shelley Lawrence.
2,048 reviews102 followers
April 12, 2022
4.5 stars
The Deception is the second book in Laura Gallier’s Delusion series. I was absolutely invested in this story, even more so than the first, mostly likely because I already knew the characters and the basis of the plot. This story carries on from where Delusion left off, though a year has passed and “Creepers” are once again secretly congregating on Owen’s land.

This story is a Christian paranormal story and has suspense, twists and turns, some romance and some vital messages to share. It is fun to see the somewhat slow, but steady growth and maturity of the characters and the resolution to other relationships.

I had some issues, theologically, with certain points in the plot as well as certain choices and behavior of some characters. I would have preferred to see a lot more Jesus-focus (He’s barely mentioned) and more prayer as the best method of combating spiritual warfare. Both are referenced, but infrequently, and sadly lacking in a plot of this nature.

Nonetheless, there are some really important points that are made and I was captivated by the narrative. And despite its sometimes juvenile approach and tone, it’s a very moving and incredibly addictive story. I’m eager to read the final book in the trilogy very soon.
October 6, 2023
As cute as that romantic gesture was that Owen did for Ray Anne, it didn’t work as a first chapter. It did nothing to draw me into the story. It wasn’t until the second chapter that I remembered why I loved the first book so much.

I really liked Ray Anne’s character in the first book. She was so encouraging and helpful to Owen. She had even drank the water simply because she wanted to be able to help Owen deal with the Creepers. In this one though, she became bossy and controlling. Everyone is allowed to have a list of traits that they would like to find in their significant other, but if someone doesn’t fit what you are looking for, you can’t force them to change. You can either accept those “flaws” in the person, or you find someone else that fits what you are looking for instead. Ray Anne was completely out of line here.

My favorite parts in The Delusion were the scenes where the author described what the Creepers were doing. She went into so much detail about what they looked like, the horrible smell, and the strange rituals they were performing. I wish we had gotten more scenes like that in this one, but we did experience new elements of these kids' Sight powers. That was cool to watch play out.
Profile Image for Melanie.
2,215 reviews598 followers
April 28, 2020
The Deception is the second book in the Delusion series and I definitely think they need to be read in order. I read and loved the first book a couple of years ago, so I was excited to pick up this one. While I didn't enjoy Deception as much as book one, it was still a good read and thought-provoking.

I liked how this story continued Owen's story and didn't switch to other characters. It was interesting to see where life was now for him and the spiritual warfare aspect was just as creepy. I didn't like certain aspects that were in this book, but I understood why they were in the story.

All in all, The Deception was a good read. If there is a third story, I plan on reading it.

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
Profile Image for Shelly.
Author 2 books37 followers
September 1, 2019
The discussion about spiritual warfare is one that a lot of believers (new and seasoned) tend to shy away from. I feel that if we don’t open our eyes, we can miss the signs of the evil that is surrounding us. Owen is struggling with being deceived and torn between the truth and lies. This “game” – a tug-of-war of sorts – pulls us in as we follow this story. It really had my mind working to figure out the direction as much as Owen! There were several chapters where I had to remind myself to breathe because I kept holding my breath at the tightly-woven suspense. I love the underlying theme of strength in faith and discerning God’s voice from that of our deceivers. As the mom of teens, I felt like this was an eye-opening story for me to help guide my boys to fight the darkness and negativity. I had a little hard time starting the book; but within a couple of chapters, I was flipping pages as fast as I could.

My 15 year old is now reading this during his 15-minute free read during his English class. He’s really loving it!

I received a copy of the book from Tyndale House for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Sheila McIntyre.
Author 1 book3 followers
August 29, 2019
This book deals with spiritual warfare not always a topic many like to delve into, but it is definitely something we as Christians need to be aware of! This was a great book that had me thinking and making me aware yet again of the realities of spiritual warfare going on around us on a daily basis. It was an excellent book, well-written, and full of lots of suspense! I highly recommend reading it--be ready to set aside time because once you start, you won't want to put it down!

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy from Tyndale House Publishers and NetGalley. All opinions and thoughts are my own.


Profile Image for aurora.
42 reviews
January 15, 2022
loved this one!!!! even better than the first. some romance too😏
Profile Image for Shana  Whiteman .
110 reviews1 follower
February 3, 2023
Second book in the Delusion series. These books are intense. Absolutely loved the first one. This one, Owen, somewhat grated my nerves at the beginning. I just felt he was doing things he knew he shouldn’t be, yet did them anyway. But a lot of us (Gods children) do things we know we shouldn’t. But it definitely got better on into the book.

Causally excited to start book 3.

Really hoping Owen is solid in his relationship with God in the third book.
Profile Image for Lylah.
101 reviews2 followers
Read
December 31, 2023
Recommended Age: 18+

Content : Kidnapping, child sacrifice, witches (being exposed), occult activity (also expossed),
Profile Image for Becka.
779 reviews41 followers
April 22, 2022
I’m so relieved to know that I have the final book in this trilogy on my shelf—with that ending, I need to start the third book immediately!
Profile Image for Samantha | samanthakreads.
267 reviews204 followers
April 25, 2022
I enjoyed this book more than the first one. It's intense, face-paced, and truly gives a view into the spiritual battle that is going on today!
Profile Image for Amelia.
106 reviews
January 20, 2023
This book was a whirlwind of vastly different things all happening at one time!
I have read (and attempted to read) a few other contemporary spiritual warfare stories, but this trilogy has been my favorite so far.

I didn't realize just how heavy the topics that it deals with would be (accidental murder, suicide, child sacrifice, the occult...), but it truly made me think.

I have thought about these first two books so many times already since I started reading them. It has really made me evaluate my own life, and ask myself if I would be weighed down by the same chains that these characters are, or if I would shine with the light that they do. This book reminded me how present evil is and how, if we could see it more clearly, we would want to do everything we could to stop it. This book explored the idea that, when we let a sinful thought come into our heads, a demon is right there to start feeding on that and sending us even further if we aren't rooted in our faith. I don't like to think about demons all that much, but it really clicked with me that we are so blind to their evil most of the time and that they are truly warring to pull us away from Jesus at every moment. It also really convicted me on forgiveness. When the mc forgave his enemies and had spiritual chains fall from him, it made me recognize just how freeing it is to forgive, even when it's so hard.

Anyway, to summarize, this book gave me a lot to think about and really helped me to look at my own life and the lives around me.

Also, I couldn't stop thinking about how much these characters reminded me of Eugene + Katrina in AIO🤣 The main guy in the story is a new Christian, and his girlfriend is torn between him and this super spiritual, churchy guy. (AKA the whole thing with Brandon) Meanwhile, the mc finds out that *SPOILER* his supposedly dead father is alive and he's been living in Africa (AKA the Leonard Meltsner saga). The similarities were just too plain not to notice, so of course I feel the need to share them 😂
Profile Image for Faith.
2,197 reviews
December 26, 2020
The stakes rise in this sequel, that in my opinion outshines the first book. Owen faces deception unlike he has ever imagined, new in his faith he struggles to fight the old darkness descending on his land. When we get answers, more questions crop up in their place, a riveting read with great character development. I can't wait to read the next book!
Profile Image for Willow ✨.
119 reviews5 followers
June 7, 2024
(2.5)
The main character was the single most infuriating person on this planet. If I have to read about how he's "always right" and everyone else is just "hopelessly stupid" one more time I will shove my head into a wall and set the house on fire.
Profile Image for Makenzie :).
18 reviews1 follower
February 23, 2025
This book is very intriguing, intense, and heavy all at once. Thank you Laura Gallier for writing this series!
I recommend this to anyone who is interested in spiritual warfare. I can’t wait to read the next one!! :)
♥️Happy Ready♥️ Never forget Jesus loves you!
4 reviews
January 1, 2021
Very good book. Gives a good perspective on our daily battle's we don't even see.
Profile Image for Macy.
100 reviews80 followers
May 4, 2020
This book was SOOOOO Good!!!!

Like...gah! It hit so deep! I cried a few times, but it was unlike any other cry-over-a-book I have ever experienced!

Plot - Creepers are still a huge threat. Owen and Ray Anne are still working to rid their town of evil. In this book though, the creepers are getting more personnel, so Owen and Ray have to examine themselves before they can truly help others.
"Today's young people are called and destined to overcome the power of evil like no generation before."

Owen - Man, I wanted to scream at you sometimes man! But that's what made this such a suspenseful read!! He and Ray are so sweet together! I love their relationship!

Content - No language. There are "creepers" which are just that, creepy, and their appearance is pretty descriptive. This story deals with the aftermath of a school shooting, suicide, hell/death, cult practices, demons, sacrificing children, an abortion is mentioned mentions/we see a character who is probably on drugs.

Every chapter ended on such a cliffhanger that I found sleep hard sometimes, oh but it was worth it! I feel like all the books I've read lately tie together and are helping me better myself...which I love!



"Fear is never necessary."

You should read this!! I highly, HIGHLY recommend!
Profile Image for FeFe.
115 reviews2 followers
November 13, 2022
No WAY.
this is the best book series I’ve ever read.
Finished it in 2 days. A page-turner… plot twists the whole time.
Deals with demons, specifically spiritual warfare in a biblical way. Not overwhelmingly preachy though… this book would interest young adults down to early teens.

The kid is working through his doubts in God and religion. But the author makes sure to write about it in a realistic and not-cheesy way.
There’s also a relationship he has that continues.. they work through some difficulties but continue to trust the LORD. their relationship is extremely appropriate and adorable 😂

AHHH but the cliffhanger is terrible!!
Profile Image for Leslie McKee.
Author 8 books72 followers
September 3, 2019
I've only read a few books about spiritual warfare, and this book (and the first one in the series) present the topic in a truly engaging way, making this book a good one for teens and adults. It really gives the reader things to ponder when going through the daily motions in their lives. Themes of listening for God's voice and the importance of having a strong faith are evident throughout the story.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of the book, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review.
Profile Image for Carlye Krul.
Author 1 book21 followers
February 9, 2021
Please tell me there is another book coming out soon or else there will be riots.
Profile Image for Wendy Douglas.
58 reviews
July 8, 2022
This was an amazing series. If you believe in the spiritual world and story of The Bible you will love this love story and mystery.
Profile Image for Kelsie.
213 reviews12 followers
October 21, 2020
The Deception by Laura Gallier is book #2 of The Delusion series, and it picks up not long after The Delusion concludes...if you could call the first book's cliffhanger ending a "conclusion." The Deception also ends in a cliffhanger, just a warning in advance! Had I had a physical book in my hand, I might have tossed it across the room as I screeched, "WHAT?!" But I value my eReader a little more than that, so I groaned and complained into a pillow instead.


I will be honest and say it took me quite a bit longer to write this review; I kept putting it off because I just...didn't know how I felt about The Deception by Laura Gallier. The first book unnerved me and had me seeing creepy grim reaper creatures in my sleep. Since I knew what to expect with The Deception, I wasn't as disturbed, but Gallier definitely still gave me the shivers. What stood out to me most about this book: Oh, how easily the weak--and the broken--can fall into deception. Owen's suddenly torn in two different directions, as kids are disappearing, and he's being visited by a spirit. He is overjoyed because this...being is telling him all the things he wants to hear. When everyone else tells Owen to stay away, he doesn't listen. In fact, he becomes defiant and thinks they're all wrong. It's all fine. Nothing to worry about. Well, besides the disappearances, but he's going to team up with his girlfriend and a few others to solve those!

The demons and their servants would not have a hold on his town of Madisonville, not if he could do something to stop them. God would win, in the end. No matter what it took from Owen.

I sped through The Deception like I was competing in a NASCAR race. The language is simple, and each chapter ended with me holding my breath. Honestly? I'm not sure if I ever let it out. That's how suspenseful Gallier's books are. What I love about her books, though, is that there's a lesson from which both new and old Christians can learn.  Owen is not a perfect character; no one in this book is. It made him and his struggles relatable. For example, we all may not have seen spirits in our living rooms, but we've definitely heard the lying whispers in our ear that lead us astray from the Lord.

The Deception is good. I enjoyed it and would recommend it, but just have the third book nearby so you can immediately flip to its beginning. The Deception ends with a single question, and I guarantee you will want to know the answer like I did! 

*Note: I was given a free copy of this novel by the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Meisha Thomas.
139 reviews3 followers
August 14, 2021
What will the 3rd one bring?

So...as you get to know the characters they start to feel like family.l. and with family coming annoying qualities. In the beginning of the book Owen was soooo annoying. He has spiritual insight others don't hsve, and yet he makes mistakes that even new believers would not make. At one point, I almost threw the book at the wall (reading from my cell so that did not happen). As the story rounded closer to the culmination and crescendo he finally came to his senses. His character is believable and responds to situations just like anyone would. In this book Owen had a lot to battle against. He had to fight his fears, his self-consciousness, his doubt and his unbelief. These personal issues left unsurrendered to the Lord, left Owen open to spiritual attacks and ungodly deceptions (this is the part of the book that bothered me the most). The book series has so many unanswered questions. I am hoping the 3rd book, if it's the last in the series, bring it to a packaged ending.
Profile Image for alexis:).
80 reviews
November 21, 2024
The Deception is exactly how it sounds, deceiving. More than half of the book Owen deals with being deceived by witchcraft. He infuriated me!!!!! I understood where he was coming from, and I know he wasn’t intentionally being stupid, but MANNNNN. Had me clenching my jaw in frustration. I felt bad for Ray Anne, knowing what he was getting into, and being able to do nothing to get him to understand.

I loved the message though, and the teaching of discernment, fighting through truths and lies to discover what is Gods voice, or what is a mimicker with evil intent.

I loved to see Owen’s growth in Christ and faith, sloooowwwwlllyyyy. But that’s me too. We aren’t all rooted in our faith immediately, and I think it’s realistic to make Owen doubt and go back and forth. God always provides answers when we ask though. I really hope Owen is firm in his faith in the next book, because idk if I could handle another book of back and forth.
Profile Image for Casey.
91 reviews7 followers
May 6, 2023
5/5 stars

The Delusion series is quickly becoming my favourite series. It Illustrates powerful truths with amazing imagery- I've never felt the truth so perfectly said without words(yet, of course, with words) 😅

The battle between truth and darkness is brought to life so well through the story of Owen Edmonds and the continuation of his spiritual journey as his sight develops to see a whole other side of the spiritual realm, and find his footing as a new Christian.

His newly found faith is very accurate when I remember all that I was ignorant of as a new believer. And I found myself still able to learn from his mistakes and the beautiful display of God's love, grace, and power.

In the sequel to the first book, The Deception doesn't lose any of that speedy pace, character development, or those unpredictable turn of events.

I can't wait to read The Defiance 😆
Profile Image for Laura.
479 reviews16 followers
March 11, 2020
This book was another great book in this series. I can't wait to get my hands on the next book.

The Deception shows how easily we can be deceived if we let our spiritual guard down. We have to prepare ourselves for a very real spiritual battle. The author also does a really good job of showing us that we must look for truth in the right places and be careful where we place our trust.

I love the characters in this book and the way in which they seem genuine and real. I am sure many teens and adults as well can relate to their struggles and see themselves in this book. Run and grab yourself a copy of this book. It is definitely worth reading and sharing with as many friends as you can share it with!
Profile Image for Tina Transformation.
Author 41 books110 followers
November 26, 2024
The Deception is a breathtaking follow-up that takes the suspense and intensity of the series to a whole new level. The twists are relentless, the stakes are higher, and the story dives even deeper into its haunting and thought-provoking themes. The characters face challenges that test their limits, and the tension keeps you on edge until the very last page. It’s gripping, emotional, and impossible to put down—a perfect continuation of a series that stays with you long after you’ve finished.
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