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Duplicity: Secrets of a Decadent Double Life
She embarks on a secret business venture as a high-class mistress to several wealthy men, each believing they are the only one paying a monthly retainer to keep her on call. Sophia has to navigate the dangerous world of secrecy and deceit and use all her cunning and intelligence to survive blackmail and keep her wealthy clients satisfied.
In this gripping, fast-paced contemporary suspense, inspired by true events, Sophia will stop at nothing to get exactly what she wants.
Readers
Wow, I just put this book down with one of those lingering afterglows you get when you want to savor what you've just read... This is certainly a unique story!
I don't always review the books I read, but two days later it's still on my mind--it was a page-turner that drew me into the characters' lives and made me care about them. Definitely recommend!
The only down side of Duplicity is my lack of sleep- it kept me gripped until the wee hours. Once I started it, I didn’t want to put it down. Really enjoyed this book and would recommend it.
In this gripping, fast-paced contemporary suspense, inspired by true events, Sophia will stop at nothing to get exactly what she wants.
Readers
Wow, I just put this book down with one of those lingering afterglows you get when you want to savor what you've just read... This is certainly a unique story!
I don't always review the books I read, but two days later it's still on my mind--it was a page-turner that drew me into the characters' lives and made me care about them. Definitely recommend!
The only down side of Duplicity is my lack of sleep- it kept me gripped until the wee hours. Once I started it, I didn’t want to put it down. Really enjoyed this book and would recommend it.
- GenresAmazon
247 pages, ebook
First published October 1, 2020
181 people are currently reading
79 people want to read
About the author
Nicky Webber
26 books24 followersNicky Webber, an award-winning New Zealand author, excels in crafting suspense thrillers and psychological narratives, drawing upon her rich background in journalism and a diverse life experience. She writes thriller suspense under her initials N F Webber.
Her acclaimed works, including the internationally recognized novel, ‘Duplicity,’ explores the depths of human emotions, resilience, and the dark corners of society. With an impressive portfolio spanning historical love stories to contemporary thrillers, Nicky’s writing is marked by relatable characters, emotional depth, and gripping suspense.
Living in Cambridge with her husband, pets, and a passion for sustainable gardening, Nicky’s stories reflect her keen observation of life and the extraordinary tales hidden within ordinary lives.
Her acclaimed works, including the internationally recognized novel, ‘Duplicity,’ explores the depths of human emotions, resilience, and the dark corners of society. With an impressive portfolio spanning historical love stories to contemporary thrillers, Nicky’s writing is marked by relatable characters, emotional depth, and gripping suspense.
Living in Cambridge with her husband, pets, and a passion for sustainable gardening, Nicky’s stories reflect her keen observation of life and the extraordinary tales hidden within ordinary lives.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
October 7, 2020
Nicky has a delightful way of bringing you into the story so you feel you know the characters well. The story line was easy to follow and very believable. I found it hard to put down and wanted to keep reading well after lights out time. I look forward to reading her other novels.
January 30, 2021
***I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.***
I really wanted to love this book. The premise seemed quite promising, especially because it’s based on a true story. How interesting to choose a career as a call girl when one seemingly has it all: wealth, status, intelligence, and education. Sophia’s story seemed like it would give good insight into that lifestyle.
At first, I found the writing difficult to read. It’s a bit harsh and lacks a smooth flow. The action is a lot of telling rather than showing, and the dialogue doesn’t feel organic. The author chose to write in present tense, which I don’t think works for this book. Because each chapter is a snapshot of time (though some chapters are a continuation of the previous chapter and some are brand new scenes), the use of past tense would have given better structure. Overall, it was some work to figure out the continuity of storylines and feel comfortable with the narration.
Speaking of the narration, it’s usually focused on Sophia. Unexplainably, the POV shifts to a different character in the middle of a chapter or even within a paragraph. Some chapters begin focusing on a different character but then return to Sophia after a section break. The book is about Sophia and her choices, so I am not sure why there are so many shifts in POV.
One of the biggest issues I had with the book is the dropped storylines. The author spends time setting up scenes, diving into relationships, and creating drama only to leave the reader hanging (hello, Giles; hello Father; hello [insert name here]). This was quite frustrating and made me want to quit reading. Also, when did she start dating Hugh enough to create such a strong bond? That felt like it came out of nowhere.
A huge missed opportunity was for Sophia to self-reflect. She was so busy wanting to live in the lifestyle she was accustomed to that she never really delves into why it was important for her to live this way, or why it was important for her to enlist wealthy men to love, dote on, and pay her for companionship. There’s no “aha” moment when she digs deep into her relationship with her family or her diagnosis. There’s no “that’s it” moment when Sophia realizes why she wants the things she wants. It’s all superficial; money, physical items, and the attention of men seem to be the driving forces.
I did appreciate the cultural references, especially in the different countries. As a fan of “Rake,” I did enjoy reading that plug. The evolution of different hot topics over the years were nicely referenced. These bits gave me some enjoyment while reading.
My last criticism is that my copy contained lots of errors such as grammar, punctuation, and inconsistent tense usage. Hopefully, these are cleaned up in the versions for sale.
I really did want to love this book. Unfortunately, it wasn’t meant to be.
I really wanted to love this book. The premise seemed quite promising, especially because it’s based on a true story. How interesting to choose a career as a call girl when one seemingly has it all: wealth, status, intelligence, and education. Sophia’s story seemed like it would give good insight into that lifestyle.
At first, I found the writing difficult to read. It’s a bit harsh and lacks a smooth flow. The action is a lot of telling rather than showing, and the dialogue doesn’t feel organic. The author chose to write in present tense, which I don’t think works for this book. Because each chapter is a snapshot of time (though some chapters are a continuation of the previous chapter and some are brand new scenes), the use of past tense would have given better structure. Overall, it was some work to figure out the continuity of storylines and feel comfortable with the narration.
Speaking of the narration, it’s usually focused on Sophia. Unexplainably, the POV shifts to a different character in the middle of a chapter or even within a paragraph. Some chapters begin focusing on a different character but then return to Sophia after a section break. The book is about Sophia and her choices, so I am not sure why there are so many shifts in POV.
One of the biggest issues I had with the book is the dropped storylines. The author spends time setting up scenes, diving into relationships, and creating drama only to leave the reader hanging (hello, Giles; hello Father; hello [insert name here]). This was quite frustrating and made me want to quit reading. Also, when did she start dating Hugh enough to create such a strong bond? That felt like it came out of nowhere.
A huge missed opportunity was for Sophia to self-reflect. She was so busy wanting to live in the lifestyle she was accustomed to that she never really delves into why it was important for her to live this way, or why it was important for her to enlist wealthy men to love, dote on, and pay her for companionship. There’s no “aha” moment when she digs deep into her relationship with her family or her diagnosis. There’s no “that’s it” moment when Sophia realizes why she wants the things she wants. It’s all superficial; money, physical items, and the attention of men seem to be the driving forces.
I did appreciate the cultural references, especially in the different countries. As a fan of “Rake,” I did enjoy reading that plug. The evolution of different hot topics over the years were nicely referenced. These bits gave me some enjoyment while reading.
My last criticism is that my copy contained lots of errors such as grammar, punctuation, and inconsistent tense usage. Hopefully, these are cleaned up in the versions for sale.
I really did want to love this book. Unfortunately, it wasn’t meant to be.
June 23, 2021
A wonderful page turner… the Author weaved a compelling fictionalised story based on the true-life tale of a beautiful young woman born into a privileged wealthy lifestyle, only to have it disappear after her mother’s death. How she managed to reclaim that wealth and lifestyle again, makes for an intriguing read.
Read
August 23, 2020Review of “Duplicity” by Nicky Webber.
By Dr. Azila Talit Reisenberger
As a lecturer in the Language and Literature Department at the University of Cape Town, I keep up to date with world literature, which introduces me to many varied authors.
After reading ‘Duplicity,’ it has confirmed that Nicky Webber, is by far, my favourite author of 2020.
To-date I have read four of Webber’s novels: “No Ordinary Man” and two volumes of “In The Deep End.” Her new book “Duplicity” is racier than the others.
I loved each of her books, but I would like to suggest that like good wine, Webber is getting better with each novel.
About the book:
‘Duplicity’s main character is Sophia. On the first page, she is introduced as a child of two self-absorbed narcissists living in Sydney, Australia.
In the first few chapters, I resented her and was not sure if I wanted to know more about her. Still, as I was fascinated by her unique character, I decided to read a couple of chapters and within a couple of episodes, as Sophia’ grows up’, and her life unfolds I became engrossed in the story, and could not let put the book down. Amazing story-line, intriguing details and set right at our time. Yes, in 2020. ‘Duplicity’ is a page-turner.
For once, I didn’t mind the Covid’s lock-down as it allowed me to drop everything else and read ‘Duplicity’ with no interruptions.
If a reader is looking for an exciting subject, racy description, total fun and fascination, to be wholly absorbed and have a good time – ‘Duplicity’ is your book.
By Dr. Azila Talit Reisenberger
As a lecturer in the Language and Literature Department at the University of Cape Town, I keep up to date with world literature, which introduces me to many varied authors.
After reading ‘Duplicity,’ it has confirmed that Nicky Webber, is by far, my favourite author of 2020.
To-date I have read four of Webber’s novels: “No Ordinary Man” and two volumes of “In The Deep End.” Her new book “Duplicity” is racier than the others.
I loved each of her books, but I would like to suggest that like good wine, Webber is getting better with each novel.
About the book:
‘Duplicity’s main character is Sophia. On the first page, she is introduced as a child of two self-absorbed narcissists living in Sydney, Australia.
In the first few chapters, I resented her and was not sure if I wanted to know more about her. Still, as I was fascinated by her unique character, I decided to read a couple of chapters and within a couple of episodes, as Sophia’ grows up’, and her life unfolds I became engrossed in the story, and could not let put the book down. Amazing story-line, intriguing details and set right at our time. Yes, in 2020. ‘Duplicity’ is a page-turner.
For once, I didn’t mind the Covid’s lock-down as it allowed me to drop everything else and read ‘Duplicity’ with no interruptions.
If a reader is looking for an exciting subject, racy description, total fun and fascination, to be wholly absorbed and have a good time – ‘Duplicity’ is your book.
October 12, 2020
This was a free ARC I received, so I took my time to read this book to give an honest review. Weber sucks you into this book from the very beginning and has you wanting to know more and more about Sophia Hudson. She grew up knowing money and finer things until she no longer had them. Her and her sister are forced to figure it out on their own. You get peeks into her past and then forward to present tense.
The author gives you meaning behind how the events of the current have come to be. I found Sophia to be a very interesting character and the way she went about building her business very smart. She speaks many languages and is very educated. She has the beauty and brains to appeal to the upper class. Her story and her encounters with these wealthy people will keep you engrossed in the story.
I recommend this book and give five stars, five stars for story, content and the ability to suck me into the story and keep me wanting more.
The author gives you meaning behind how the events of the current have come to be. I found Sophia to be a very interesting character and the way she went about building her business very smart. She speaks many languages and is very educated. She has the beauty and brains to appeal to the upper class. Her story and her encounters with these wealthy people will keep you engrossed in the story.
I recommend this book and give five stars, five stars for story, content and the ability to suck me into the story and keep me wanting more.
October 9, 2020
Dysfunctional families aren’t rare, nor are narcissistic personalities. But ever now and then an individual comes along with a rather unique rule-breaking perspective that allows them to use such bad breaks in life to achieve their goals. Duplicity is loosely based on one such real life woman. For me, the first chapter was a real struggle to read because it was loaded with details without enough framework to appreciate them, but the story drew me in as it went along. The main character Sophia certainly knew the importance of making a good first impression and honed her skill to a fine art. The story is well told and very current. The author Nicky Webber treats a titillating subject in a rather matter of fact way. If you enjoy reading about controversial characters, you will enjoy Duplicity. I received a free advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 2, 2020
This is such a great story of such a great human. I loved it! I’m completely awe struck even with the writing. The language is very crisp and not very flowery or anything yet it is to the point and does not drag or lag behind. It is also very fast paced and really interesting. I loved reading it.
This also does talk about a few issues like patriarchy, racism, sexism and so on. Also, this book does not have very vivid imagery of sex if you are concerned (many fantasy books or other contemporary books have more vivid imagery of sex than this one) but nonetheless it is there. There are also trigger warnings about death and manipulation, breaking in, cheating and so on. If these things does not bother you then you should try and read this one. This is really good. Happy Reading 🙂
Also, this one has a happy Covid 19 story for a change and I loved reading it.
This also does talk about a few issues like patriarchy, racism, sexism and so on. Also, this book does not have very vivid imagery of sex if you are concerned (many fantasy books or other contemporary books have more vivid imagery of sex than this one) but nonetheless it is there. There are also trigger warnings about death and manipulation, breaking in, cheating and so on. If these things does not bother you then you should try and read this one. This is really good. Happy Reading 🙂
Also, this one has a happy Covid 19 story for a change and I loved reading it.
October 27, 2020
Yet again Nicky Webber has kept me riveted with such a fascinating script. A very easy read with plenty of excitement to keep me in suspense throughout the entire book.
Really looking forward to what Nicky will do next.
Very interesting to see how this writer is developing and maturing with each read.
Really looking forward to what Nicky will do next.
Very interesting to see how this writer is developing and maturing with each read.
July 29, 2020
Thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. The coming of age story line kept me on the edge of my seat. I was totally absorbed in the lives of these well-crafted characters. Good read!
October 3, 2020
Interesting and thought provoking read. Relatable characters, easy flowing story.
November 10, 2020
I enjoyed the story, liked that it included up to date global events and found it an easy read to pick up and put down at leisure. I need books like that at times.
October 15, 2020
What an intriguing story! While it may morally offend some, I was not offended, and marveled at Sophia's tenacity, entrepreneurship, and abilities. The ending left a few questions, but given it's based on a true story, one can accept that the story hasn't yet ended. There could be additional twists and turns.
Sophia is a woman who knows what she wants, and knows how to get it with her skill set. Let's hope she never loses friends like Florian, who are key to her success, and that the rest of her life suits her.
I've made visible the distracting word misuses that normally would cause a star loss in my reviews; the story was compelling enough to allow me to overlook these this time.
Sophia is a woman who knows what she wants, and knows how to get it with her skill set. Let's hope she never loses friends like Florian, who are key to her success, and that the rest of her life suits her.
I've made visible the distracting word misuses that normally would cause a star loss in my reviews; the story was compelling enough to allow me to overlook these this time.
March 4, 2021
The story of a woman juggling several men “exclusively” for money isn’t new. It is the kind of scandal that takes up the front pages of trashy gossip magazines around the world. However, Nicky Webber manages to cut through the gossipy part and presents a real-life story that is both fascinating and an interesting insight into human behavior.
What I like about the book is that it is episodic. Webber talks about her protagonist Sophia through specific incidents in her life, giving us an idea of what led her to start this contemporary lifestyle. It makes reading the book less tedious. Although the first half is slow, as Webber tells us about Sophia’s relationship with her family members, things do move faster thereon.
I also like the fact that the book is recent, in that some of the very last events take place in 2020 and are linked to the pandemic. There are, however, some complex themes, like that of men grooming young women, but also the book in a way is about women empowerment as Sophia leads a life that she wants. Maybe it is out of necessity, but she does manage to have control over most of her actions.
My only disappointment about the book is that Webber chooses the characters she wants to highlight. Some of the men get importance, while others are barely mentioned. There’s also a hurriedness towards the end to finish the book that leaves several questions unanswered. Nevertheless, a fascinating book and a good read.
Note: I received an advance review copy of the book for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
What I like about the book is that it is episodic. Webber talks about her protagonist Sophia through specific incidents in her life, giving us an idea of what led her to start this contemporary lifestyle. It makes reading the book less tedious. Although the first half is slow, as Webber tells us about Sophia’s relationship with her family members, things do move faster thereon.
I also like the fact that the book is recent, in that some of the very last events take place in 2020 and are linked to the pandemic. There are, however, some complex themes, like that of men grooming young women, but also the book in a way is about women empowerment as Sophia leads a life that she wants. Maybe it is out of necessity, but she does manage to have control over most of her actions.
My only disappointment about the book is that Webber chooses the characters she wants to highlight. Some of the men get importance, while others are barely mentioned. There’s also a hurriedness towards the end to finish the book that leaves several questions unanswered. Nevertheless, a fascinating book and a good read.
Note: I received an advance review copy of the book for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 13, 2020
Let me start off with... this isn’t my usual genre. I went in with no preconceptions and I truly enjoyed it.
Sophia’s life is something else. The struggle, the pain, the hurt. All that she went though was so worth it in the end. I love how the story was expressed. Giving flashbacks to going forward and back. I tend to get confused when that happens, but Ms. Webber made it easy to navigate.
The attention to detail can’t be missed on every page. Webber provides so much of it, sometimes might even be too much, that you don’t have to guess at anything. Everything is explained beautifully and with no confusion.
Florian was just the best addition to the book. He helped her so much throughout her life. He was the sane friend that was always willing to go the extra mile and never judged. The chemistry they had was just so unique, so on point.
Teressa, Sophia’s sister, was just something else. I know we’re meant to not dislike her but I couldn’t help it. They grew up in the same household, under the same roof, they both had it bad. She was just envious and spiteful. It was only them too, sure she was younger but no need to be a brat about it.
The men. Oh my gosh! The men. I loved it. Sophia had a way of just knowing what they all wanted. Knew how to give all of them the attention and devotion they required. She was just so good at her job. I still can’t believe that it was 7 clients. I can barely keep up with one. Knowing this was based on a true story, just remarkable.
I’m glad she got her happy ever after. She earned it!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Sophia’s life is something else. The struggle, the pain, the hurt. All that she went though was so worth it in the end. I love how the story was expressed. Giving flashbacks to going forward and back. I tend to get confused when that happens, but Ms. Webber made it easy to navigate.
The attention to detail can’t be missed on every page. Webber provides so much of it, sometimes might even be too much, that you don’t have to guess at anything. Everything is explained beautifully and with no confusion.
Florian was just the best addition to the book. He helped her so much throughout her life. He was the sane friend that was always willing to go the extra mile and never judged. The chemistry they had was just so unique, so on point.
Teressa, Sophia’s sister, was just something else. I know we’re meant to not dislike her but I couldn’t help it. They grew up in the same household, under the same roof, they both had it bad. She was just envious and spiteful. It was only them too, sure she was younger but no need to be a brat about it.
The men. Oh my gosh! The men. I loved it. Sophia had a way of just knowing what they all wanted. Knew how to give all of them the attention and devotion they required. She was just so good at her job. I still can’t believe that it was 7 clients. I can barely keep up with one. Knowing this was based on a true story, just remarkable.
I’m glad she got her happy ever after. She earned it!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 18, 2021
Very clever, very entertaining, I was hooked!
November 17, 2020
The life of Sophia Huston is no ordinary one to say the least. Raised in a wealthy family, she utilizes her wits to maintain the indulgent lifestyle that she has grown accustomed to when her familial wealth dissipates. The way the story unravels is quite intriguing. It is based off of a true story with names and details changed for privacy reasons, but by the end of the novel I was quite curious as to how much of this really happened. The only gripe I have about this story is the fate of the relationship with one of Sophia’s clients was anticlimactic, considering a particular incident that occurred. Other than this, the book offers insight into the mind of a high-end call girl and why she chose this particular lifestyle for herself. I think this piece also does a good job of deviating from the stigma of prostitution because a lot of Sophia’s story is about her motives and goals, why she does what she does, and how it is a means to an end for her—making her more relatable to the average person. Overall great read!
Thank you to BookSirens for the ARC.
Thank you to BookSirens for the ARC.
January 31, 2021
Full of plot twists and turns...
From a small child Sophia sees the need to be quiet, self-contained and eventually completely self-reliant. She learns early about emotional depravation. The consequences of which set her on a path to finding her best source of financial self-reliance; she forms an outrageous plan to live an even more complex, focussed and committed lifestyle. Until the unravelling begins....
An escalating world health crisis provides Sophia with an ‘out’; it’s the perfect excuse to exit her own ironclad contractural obligations. A simple uncomplicated life beckons in New Zealand; she wants it, her sanity needs it. The choice between the lifestyle she’s worked so hard to cultivate, or should she take a chance with freedom and anonymity and just one man?
Is Sophia finally free to love and be loved for who she really is....?
From a small child Sophia sees the need to be quiet, self-contained and eventually completely self-reliant. She learns early about emotional depravation. The consequences of which set her on a path to finding her best source of financial self-reliance; she forms an outrageous plan to live an even more complex, focussed and committed lifestyle. Until the unravelling begins....
An escalating world health crisis provides Sophia with an ‘out’; it’s the perfect excuse to exit her own ironclad contractural obligations. A simple uncomplicated life beckons in New Zealand; she wants it, her sanity needs it. The choice between the lifestyle she’s worked so hard to cultivate, or should she take a chance with freedom and anonymity and just one man?
Is Sophia finally free to love and be loved for who she really is....?
December 20, 2020
Good story
An interesting idea, a young girl who becomes a high class call girl of sorts. There were details that I had questions about, especially since it is set in modern day. Did she use protection with each of the guys? Wouldn’t she have required some sort of regular health screening? Or at least a document from each mans doctor stating that he was disease free? What did she do when she had her “monthly visitor”? Inquiring minds...
An interesting idea, a young girl who becomes a high class call girl of sorts. There were details that I had questions about, especially since it is set in modern day. Did she use protection with each of the guys? Wouldn’t she have required some sort of regular health screening? Or at least a document from each mans doctor stating that he was disease free? What did she do when she had her “monthly visitor”? Inquiring minds...
January 23, 2021
I recommend adding this book to your summer reads. Sophia has a sort of wondrous life. Business focus, family, friends, living a fearless life and kindness will make you want to know what happens next.
Heather Jones
Heather Jones
January 25, 2021
Wow! What a life "Sophia" led! Once I started reading Duplicity I was captivated and drawn into "Sophia's" life. And what a life! Great novel Nicky.
April 26, 2024
In Nicky Webber's captivating novel, "Duplicity," readers are thrust into the world of high-stakes suspense and clandestine dealings as they follow the enigmatic Sophia Huston on her perilous journey through the shadows of elite society. This fast-paced romantic suspense novel is not just a mere work of fiction; it's inspired by true events, adding layers of authenticity to an already gripping tale.
Sophia's decision to enter the clandestine world of high-class mistresses sets the stage for a thrilling narrative filled with twists, turns, and unexpected betrayals. As she navigates the murky waters of her secret business venture, she finds herself entangled in a dangerous web of blackmail and deceit, where every decision could mean the difference between reclaiming her luxurious lifestyle or facing ruin.
What sets "Duplicity" apart is its complex characters who leap off the page with depth and authenticity. From the resilient Sophia to the wealthy men who become ensnared in her web of deception, each character is meticulously crafted, adding layers of intrigue to an already captivating plot. Readers will find themselves invested in the fates of these characters, rooting for their triumphs and lamenting their losses.
Webber's skillful storytelling keeps readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. The pacing is relentless, with each chapter propelling the narrative forward with pulse-pounding intensity. It's the kind of book that keeps you up into the wee hours of the morning, unable to tear yourself away until you've reached the thrilling conclusion.
Ultimately, "Duplicity" is a testament to the enduring allure of suspense fiction. With its inspired by true events storyline, complex characters, and thrilling plot, it's a book that will leave readers breathless and eager for more. If you're a fan of high-stakes suspense, don't miss out on this page-turner from the talented Nicky Webber.
Sophia's decision to enter the clandestine world of high-class mistresses sets the stage for a thrilling narrative filled with twists, turns, and unexpected betrayals. As she navigates the murky waters of her secret business venture, she finds herself entangled in a dangerous web of blackmail and deceit, where every decision could mean the difference between reclaiming her luxurious lifestyle or facing ruin.
What sets "Duplicity" apart is its complex characters who leap off the page with depth and authenticity. From the resilient Sophia to the wealthy men who become ensnared in her web of deception, each character is meticulously crafted, adding layers of intrigue to an already captivating plot. Readers will find themselves invested in the fates of these characters, rooting for their triumphs and lamenting their losses.
Webber's skillful storytelling keeps readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. The pacing is relentless, with each chapter propelling the narrative forward with pulse-pounding intensity. It's the kind of book that keeps you up into the wee hours of the morning, unable to tear yourself away until you've reached the thrilling conclusion.
Ultimately, "Duplicity" is a testament to the enduring allure of suspense fiction. With its inspired by true events storyline, complex characters, and thrilling plot, it's a book that will leave readers breathless and eager for more. If you're a fan of high-stakes suspense, don't miss out on this page-turner from the talented Nicky Webber.
February 2, 2023
Sophia puts a plan in place to live the independent wealthy lifestyle she desires. It begins with an older family friend who is willing to pay for her virginity. She realizes with her youth and beauty she can convince several men to subsidize her lavish lifestyle. She has them sign contracts, agreeing to a monthly stipend, and they each think they’re the only one. Most are married businessmen who frequently travel. Her gay friend’s interior design business is the perfect cover as her legitimate employer. Sophia is based on a real person. She’s detached and cold and seems to have no conscience at the beginning where she toys with people. It was hard to like her. I kept waiting for things to catch up to her. There was a stalking incident which is never followed up on. There were many minor errors in the book, missing quotations marks or words, oddly worded sentences, tenses mixed up. I also had some questions at the end. What happened to her father? Her friend Florian always seemed at her beck and call. There was nothing about his personal life, which I’d would’ve liked to hear more about. A good friend is only mentioned a few times and then is gone. There are no graphic sex scenes, which was fine with me, but there was no description of each man’s particular proclivities. I didn’t get much of a sense of any of them or their motivations. The ending was too convenient and tied up too nicely. The book wasn’t very exciting, and I wouldn’t call it a page turner. I expected it to be better, giving us a peek into this kind of lifestyle.
May 30, 2021
I met the Author Nicky Webber at a book signing Ages of Pages held at Hamilton Gardens this year. The banner for this book was in my line of sight all day and after I'd done my PA duties I ventured over to ask about the book.
The blurb pretty much explains the story, and I bought it and started reading it the next week.
It was a story that Mark Twain Quotes
Truth is stranger than fiction, sums up fully.
This book really was a look into a life I couldn't imagine, but once I got to know Sophia as a character, I could understand how perfectly logical her plan was. The book was a story that had me wondering what would happen next when I wasn't reading and to me that makes it a 5 star read. When an author captures my attention when I am doing other chores and all I want is to get back to reading what happens next.
The blurb pretty much explains the story, and I bought it and started reading it the next week.
It was a story that Mark Twain Quotes
Truth is stranger than fiction, sums up fully.
This book really was a look into a life I couldn't imagine, but once I got to know Sophia as a character, I could understand how perfectly logical her plan was. The book was a story that had me wondering what would happen next when I wasn't reading and to me that makes it a 5 star read. When an author captures my attention when I am doing other chores and all I want is to get back to reading what happens next.
July 7, 2022
Dysfunctional families aren’t rare, nor are narcissistic personalities. But ever now and then an individual comes along with a rather unique rule-breaking perspective that allows them to use such bad breaks in life to achieve their goals. Duplicity is loosely based on one such real life woman. For me, the first chapter was a real struggle to read because it was loaded with details without enough framework to appreciate them, but the story drew me in as it went along. The main character Sophia certainly knew the importance of making a good first impression and honed her skill to a fine art. The story is well told and very current. The author Nicky Webber treats a titillating subject in a rather matter of fact way. If you enjoy reading about controversial characters, you will enjoy Duplicity. I received a free advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 11, 2020
This book would have been great if the writing made me give a single damn about the character, but, when the writing is so flat in an uninteresting 3rd person pov and it feels like a chore to read it, why should I care?
April 25, 2022
First, the book could use a more thorough editing: bad/missing punctuation, etc. Secondly, I felt it was building up to a big climax of discovery . . . then just petered out. It was an okay book, and I'm glad things worked out for Sophia, but was rather unbelievable all around.
July 5, 2022
Intriguing
I was surprised at how easily I was drawn info the story and literally was held captive until the end. This is outside my usual genre but he internal struggles of the main character psyche were as good as most psyche suspens.
I was surprised at how easily I was drawn info the story and literally was held captive until the end. This is outside my usual genre but he internal struggles of the main character psyche were as good as most psyche suspens.
January 2, 2024
I can definitely say that this author won me over. I loved the story, I know it's fiction, but the involvement and the timeline the author created made the story very reliable. I immediately created empathy with the main character. And I look forward to this author's next novel.
Want to read
October 12, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (10/12/2020)! 🎁
April 15, 2022
I quite enjoyed it. The main annoyance was using American terminology such as cell phone and SPCA. It's an Australian novel therefore should use our terminology.
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