Illusion of Love

by Sarah Hamaker

A suspicious online romance reconnects an agoraphobe and an old friend.Nursing a hurt leg, psychiatrist Jared Quinby arrives in Culpeper, Virginia, on a case for the FBI. The investigation leads him to the doorstep of his childhood best friend, Mary Divers. Meeting Mary again is the one bright spot in his life.Suffering from agoraphobia, Mary has at last found love with online beau David Kline and dares to dream of a future with him. Then David reveals he will be leaving the United States to become a missionary in Peru. Determined to stop living in fear, she accepts David’s marriage proposal, even though she’s never met him face-to-face.As Jared’s case intersects with Mary’s online relationship, the more he uncovers, the more he fears for her safety. Jared tries to convince Mary not all is right with David, but she refuses to believe him. When tragedy strikes, Mary pushes Jared even farther away. Will Jared convince Mary of the truth—and of his love for her—before it’s too late?

Genres: Romance

Kindle Edition

Published October 13, 2020

About the author

Award-winning and best-selling author Sarah Hamaker loves writing books “where the hero and heroine fall in love while running for their lives.” She’s written romantic suspense novels and nonfiction books, as well as stories in Chicken Soup for the Soul volumes. As a writers coach, her heart is encouraging writers. She’s a member of ACFW; ACFW Virginia Chapter; and Faith, Hope and Love. Her podcast, “The Romantic Side of Suspense,” can be found wherever you listen to podcasts. Sarah lives in Virginia with her husband, four children and three cats.

Reviews

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the realistic story line and the very believable characters! With all the topsy turvy dynamics of Mary, Dan and Jared, I couldn’t wait to turn the page. With the deep seeded pain Mary carried, she was blind to the one who truly loved her but also blind to the shenanigans of the one who claimed to love her. This is the first book I’ve read by this author but look forward to reading more by her. A very well written story that I would recommend.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but my opinions are my own.

[Deana Dick · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful account of the dangers of dating sites. It is so easy to fall for sweet words from a stranger when you are lonely. You want to believe this person because they make you feel special , so you ignore the warning signs. My heart went out to Mary. Her childhood consisted of being abandoned at the age of nine by her parents. I can’t imagine how a parent could discard a child so easily. Learning about Mary’s past helps me understand how easily she falls for a man named David through a Christian Website. I do want to point out that just because a site is Christian based doesn’t mean everyone on there is a Christian.

I was happy to be introduced to Jared . He is an old friend of Mary and it is not by accident that they run into each other after many years. Of course he doesn’t tell Mary that he is investigating fraud that may involve her friend David. The author shows a very vulnerable side to Jared as he slowly comes to terms with his feelings for Mary. He is desperately trying to talk Mary out of a decision that could not only destroy her emotionally but could also damage her financially. Isn’t it funny how we want to trust people even when there are subtle signs that all is not right? Jared’s instincts are on high alert when Mary shares some surprising news regarding her future. As Jared tries to warn Mary about David she can’t believe that the David she knows would do anything to hurt her. I loved how Jared was diligent in keeping a close eye out for Mary.

The story takes on internet dating sites and how it can be used to deceit people. I loved the mystery and how clever the criminals thought they were. The characters are well written and I believe the author shows how easy it is to fall victim to scams while hoping for a relationship. The ending is good and wrapped up all the loose ends in a way that gives you a reason to be cautious when visiting dating sites.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

[Kelly-Ann ~ Sassy Bookish Mama · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an interesting story. It has suspense and romance and the author writes it in such a way that captivates you. This is my first by this author and she does a great job at creating believable characters. The themes of faith and trust are woven in throughout the plot line. I really loved Jared and how he wanted to protect Mary while keeping his feelings for her at bay.

Overall I thought the story was good. I will be looking for more stories by this author in the near future!

I received a copy of this book from the author. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Joan · Rating 3 out of 5]

This novel is a good exploration of the deceptive nature of an online romantic pursuit. As a senior citizen, I was appalled that Mary fell for an online dating scam. But I know it happens and this novel is a good warning for those who naively approach dating sites.

There were plot points I found very interesting. One was the idea of missionaries. Mary's parents abandoned her to become missionaries. (Or did they?) David tries to swindle Mary by claiming he is becoming a missionary and needs immediate finances. I am not sure what the message is, but using God's work to deceive others was disturbing.

I am too old fashioned to believe that romance could happen over the Internet, sight unseen. This interesting novel, with a naïve heroine and a gallant hero, is a good one for young people to read. It well portrays the dangers possible with online interaction verses the reality of actual in person relationships.

I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.

[Hunter Q Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book

This is a story so many people can tell ,because they have lived it. With all the scams on the internet today, this an eye opening story.

[Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Illusion of Love by Sarah Hamaker
A suspicious online romance reconnects an agoraphobe and an old friend.
Nursing a hurt leg, psychiatrist Jared Quinby arrives in Culpeper, Virginia, on a case for the FBI. The investigation leads him to the doorstep of his childhood best friend, Mary Divers. Meeting Mary again is the one bright spot in his life.
Suffering from agoraphobia, Mary has at last found love with online beau David Kline and dares to dream of a future with him. Then David reveals he will be leaving the United States to become a missionary in Ecuador. Determined to stop living in fear, she accepts David’s marriage proposal, even though she’s never met him face-to-face.
As Jared’s case intersects with Mary’s online relationship, the more he uncovers, the more he fears for her safety. Jared tries to convince Mary not all is right with David, but she refuses to believe him. When tragedy strikes, Mary pushes Jared even farther away.
Will Jared convince Mary of the truth—and of his love for her—before it’s too late?
This is Mary Divers and Jared Quinby's story.
R u there? Mary Divers hit send. She picked up her coffee cup and glanced at the clock on her computer.
Eight a.m. Since she worked evenings, she usually slept until eleven. But after awaking an hour ago, she hadn’t been able to fall back asleep.
Maybe David would help her pass the time. A soft ping turned her attention back to her computer.
Jared Quinby stared at the printouts of chat transcripts scattered on his bed, willing the words to make sense.
He’d been pouring over the material for far too long and now his left leg cramped, muscles bunching and twisting beneath the scarred skin.
Gritting his teeth, he hobbled to the dresser and reached for the bottle of prescription medication.
I recommend reading.
Illusion of Love by Sarah Hamaker is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Sarah Hamaker.

[Kendra Neal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sarah Hamaker is a new to me author, as I have never read any of her books. I was intrigued to read Illusion of Love as it has a very interesting Synopsis.

Mary Divers is secluded to her home for the most part. She really only comes out to attend church and even then there cannot be crowds. She suffers from agoraphobia. She spends her time online and has an online boyfriend, David Kline, whom she has never met in person, only online. She feels she has a future with him and even accepts his marriage proposal when he decides he is going to Peru for Missionary Work. Mary is quite surprised when an old childhood friend shows up on her doorstep one day. Jared Quinby, is working on a case for the FBI and it involves David Kline. Jared is doing his work on the case and as he discovers more and more about "David Kline", the more it makes him uncomfortable. He really fears for Mary's safety at this point and expresses his concerns to Mary. Mary doesn't believe him and gets even more frustrated with Jared with tragedy comes about. Will Jared be successful in convincing Mary that she is not safe? Will there be a "love connection" between Jared and Mary?

Illusion of Love is a wonderful read. I really like how the author took a real life situation for so many, Online Dating and the Dangers it brings, and wrote a fiction novel about it. Online Dating scams are radically on the rise and sometimes so many are not aware of the scam before they lose money or something else happens. Mary Divers is an intriguing character for the book. Her agoraphobia really plays a large role into her online dating. She seems gullible at times in the book. Jared Quinby has a heart for his Childhood friend, not only in helping her because of his FBI case, but he also really wants a relationship with her. The book had me on the edge of my seat at many parts and chapters! I am looking forward to reading more of Sarah Hamaker books in the future! GREAT BOOK!

[Randi Sampson · Rating 4 out of 5]

As someone who deals with agoraphobia myself, and understands how it can be easier to connect with people behind a computer screen, I must admit the concept of this story really drew me in. But I was a bit apprehensive for a few reasons as well. First off, often agoraphobia is represented by those who absolutely never leave their home... while that may be true in some case, there are those like myself who can leave but struggle with anxiety when out and tend to just stick with certain familiar places. In this story Mary tends to only go to church though we see her venture a few places too. I personally thought it was nice to see this different type of portrayal. The second was that I worried that it might paint ALL online dating in a bad light...and well, having met my own husband online (albeit through his sister so not as total strangers with no connection), well... I clearly believe that they can and do work... I was again pleasantly surprised to see that the author handled the topic very well, and I definitely didn't feel like all online relationships were painted in a negative light, but certainly the story served as a reminder of things that can and do still happen even and the need to be mindful of what we do and who we connect with online. While it's listed as a romantic suspense, it's definitely not the action packed story that I come to associate with the genre...still, I couldn't help but enjoy every minute of it! If you're looking for something a little different than your typical suspense read, this is certainly one to check out.

**I received a complimentary copy for consideration. All thoughts are my own.

[Connie Hill · Rating 4 out of 5]

Illusion of Love is a Romantic Suspense that is written by Sarah Hamaker. This is the first book that I have read by this author. I will definitely be looking for more from this author. She has written an action packed, real feeling, suspenseful story.

We live in a world where so many things are done online. Banking, shopping, schooling and dating. I loved how this book explored the dangers of online dating. Mary suffers from agoraphobia. She does not like being around people or out in places. She meets David online and he says/types all the right things and she has fallen head over heels for him. They have never met - but she accepts his marriage proposal when he tells her he is going to be an overseas missionary. Enter childhood friend Jared. He is back in town healing from a leg injury and investigating some fraud instances. He is happy to see Mary again -and does not tell her that.... at first.

I loved that Jared tried to warn her when he realizes that she is about to fall victim to David. He also has to come to terms with his feelings for Mary. He has to not only make sure he is following protocol, but also wants to save his friend.

This book looks at real life situations. The internet can be a scary thing sometime, and scammers prey on those who are vulnerable. The author nailed this.

Well written characters, suspenseful well written story line, I hope to read more from this author.

I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit blogging program - all thoughts are my own.

[Gail Hollingsworth · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story had a little bit of everything. Mystery, intrigue, false relationships, and love.
Mary has a fear of leaving her house for extended periods of time and never when there will be tons of people. She has cocooned herself within the walls of her house.
Jared is a childhood friend that hasn’t seen Mary in over twenty years. He is a psychiatrist but has helped the FBI on a couple of cases, the last one caused him to get shot in the leg and left him with a limp.
He is surprised to learn that Mary is involved in this current case as a possible victim.
She has become enamored with a man that contacted her via an online dating site. Is he for real? Mary has had a hard time understanding how such a handsome man, from his photo, can be interested in her.
I especially identified with Mary, not the agoraphobia, but the low self esteem and fear she suffered from. Her parents never seemed to care about her. I just wanted to meet her and give her a big hug! Jared had some physical and emotional issues to deal with himself. He amazed me with his ability to push through his physical pain and not give up easily.
As the FBI closes in lots of strange and surprising facts come to light that had me sitting with my mouth dropping down to my chin almost. This was very entertaining and kept me up late to see what was going to happen next.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through Celebrate Lit but was not required to write a review positive or otherwise.

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fun read! I wasn’t sure what to expect when I picked up this book but once I got started reading the book I couldn’t put it down!

Add together one undercover male with injuries he’d rather not remember and jaded thinking, plus a girl who doesn’t ever leave her home, and one con artist and what do you have? A book that will keep you reading until the mystery is solved and justice is served.

It’s one of those based on true story books that will make you think before you believe a too good to be a true thing again. It also emphasizes all that can be hidden online.

I really loved getting to know the main characters and finding out what made them the way they are. There was a mental health aspect to the book that I really liked too because those things always get to me as I try to learn more and more.

This is a wonderful book that I can’t recommend enough. I hope you give it a read and enjoy it.

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this contemporary suspenseful romance. I really felt both Jared and Mary were beautifully complex and really became likable along the way. Their connection and the reality of the struggles in each of their lives and how their romance so slowly blossomed was like layers of the perfect onion. David was quite the the devious one and it was easy to dislike him easily too. The book reminded me that while sometimes we like to think Hallmark movies are reality, they really aren't and really should be confined to an entertaining movie to enjoy. I think the author did a good job of integrating the FBI and their investigation into the story without losing the heart and charm of the story, and I felt like the secondary characters were well developed as well. I did think the ending was a little bit too much of an info dump at one time. Also, the language used through the online chat etc. seemed a little dated. Overall I think anyone who would enjoy a good clean contemporary fiction/romance should pick this one up.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, and all opinions given are entirely my own.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a story about a reclusive woman who has lived through many hurts as a child and growing up and now hides for the most part in her home. She has a job, which kind of shocked me what kind, that does allow her to keep up her hermit lifestyle. But she is lonely and she has begun talking to a man on an online dating site. She thinks things are on the up and up but little does she know the darkness that is hiding within the web.

Enter childhood friend Jared Quinby who is working with the FBI to find out who this man is that is stalking women. He is shocked not only to find his old best friend Mary again after she disappeared from his life and to find out she is quite possibly one of the women mixed up in this online scam.

Lots of secrets are exposed and Mary will hopefully find her worth in who she is.

I received a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...

[Cheri Swalwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the first book I’ve read by Sarah Hamaker but it will not be my last. The topic grabbed me from the beginning and the writing kept me reading. While I thought Jared sounded a little too “feminine” in his thoughts at times, he was a wonderful hero. I thought Mary was very realistic and was drawn to her character from the get go. The emails/direct messaging between David and Mary – oh my goodness! I have read that type of false flirting in real life and the author nailed it! I was laughing out loud at how realistic it was.

Great ending – the author surprised me with how she got it all put together and kudos to Mary for not being as gullible as readers were led to believe at first. Loved this book. Cannot wait to see what else this author has written.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit but was not under any obligation to write a review. All opinions are strictly mine.

[Mary Hake · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mary Divers may entirely seem too gullible, but your heart can’t help but go out to her as her online relationship with a man deepens and she has no suspicions about his honesty or dishonesty. When a childhood friend resurfaces and becomes involved in her life, doors to the past start to swing open, revealing secrets. This story includes the online boyfriend’s perspective at times so readers know exactly what is going on, but naïve Mary may be irreparably hurt. The characters seem quite realistic, and the author does a good job at evoking emotions and unfolding the compelling plot. I found it interesting that this story was inspired by actual events. The themes of trust and faith play a vital role in this novel. It has enough suspense and some romance to grab readers and hold their attention to the end. Sarah Hamaker’s style of writing makes me want to read more of her work. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Illusion of Love" by Sarah Hamaker really kept my attention from the beginning to the ending. It is a story about online fraud and stealing money. I could see this story happening somewhat in today's world. This book had me questioning "Why would parents abandoned their child to become missionaries? " The answer really surprised me! I want to read more of Jared and Mary's adventures.
I recommend this book to readers who likes clean romance and a little suspense. This book has no graphic killing like in some suspense novels. This story is a story of a second chance at love and does have a happy ending!

I was given a contemporary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Illusion of Love, by Sarah Hamaker, is a modern day story that deals with internet dating. This is a well written, easy to read story of rekindling old friendships and dealing with past issues. I enjoyed this story as it focused on the dangers of internet dating and the scams that are so prevalent in our world today. This story quickly grabbed my attention and kept it to the very end. I enjoyed how devoted Jared was to his job and how he felt he had to protect Mary from harm. I enjoyed the humor that was written into the story with Jared and his co-worker. Yet, I felt heart broken for Mary as she dealt with why her parents would send her to her aunt's many years earlier and never returned for a visit.I received a complimentary copy of this story, this is my honest review.

[Patti Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Suffering from agoraphobia plus other past traumas, Mary Divers attempts to find love through an online connection. However, Jared Quinby, a childhood friend, and consultant for the FBI appears nursing a hurt leg and on a quest to find out why his childhood friend disappeared from his life 30 years ago.

The author creates an amazing world that illustrates appearances often deceive us. Also, finding love requires effort, faith, and trust. I think my favorite part of the book resulted from Mary’s job. Rather than spoiling that piece for you, I will just say read the book to find out what Mary does. So check out this book for yourself.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

[Ashley Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a really good book about how oblivious people can be or how easily fooled. I loved that the characters and the situation were completely realistic. Online dating is both a wonderful and scary thing.

I really liked the story and how it unfolds. This is one of those stories that has you turning the pages and glued to them because you have to know what is going to happen next. If you like romantic suspense, this is one you should read right away.

5/5

Thank you to the author/publisher for the review copy of this book via Celebrate Lit. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.

[Amanda H · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought that this book was fascinating with the underbelly of the internet that it exposed! Poor Mary has been a prisoner in her home since a traumatic experience (trigger warning) left her with a desire to remain in a safe space. Unfortunately, that doesn't give her much time to meet other singles. After talking to a missionary minded young man online, she suddenly has not one, but two possible love interests.

Overall, I enjoyed this story and the twists to the mystery. This is a delightful story to pick up and enjoy!

I received this book from Celebrate Lit. This is my honest review.

[Mary Stalnaker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. The characters were so real and easy to like. The story was amazing. I hated to put it down. It involved online dating which is how I met my husband. Unfortunately, Mary, in the book, didn't have the same results. I highly recommend this book. I think once you start reading it you'll find you can't stop reading.
I did receive a copy of the book from the author, but this review is my own opinion.

[Natalya · Rating 5 out of 5]

So realistic!
It’s a wonderful story that shows the reality and danger of “virtual world”. The tension rises with every development in the story! Just when you think you know the next step, a surprising twist awaits.
“Ironic that his scars were on the outside while hers were on the inside. What a pair they made, each with their own hidden hurts.”
I received an ARC of this book for review. I was not required to write a favorable review. All opinions in this review are my own.

[Jennifer J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well-paced, suspenseful and intriguing. An interesting cast of characters interact credibly in this story that is eerily probable, quite complex and thoroughly absorbing. The undercurrent of romance and secrets lights a spark that adds to the page-turner quality and makes this one hard to put down or forget. I highly recommend this one – grab your copy and enjoy!

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A realistic story of the dangers of dating sites. Although I’ve never used them, I can understand people wanting to meet others. Definitely has you hooked, hoping everything will turn out alright.

[Jennifer Rosenberry · Rating 5 out of 5]

I started to read the book and it seemed familiar to me. I believe that I previously read it, but enjoyed reading the book again.

[Sandy Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great book

[Melissa Foss · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story!

Another great story from Sarah Hamaker! A storyline and characters that capture her readers from the beginning. This story brought many smiles to my face!

[Lucy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. The characters were so real and vulnerable and the story concept was genius for todays world. So many scams and deceitful people preying on the vulnerability of others and this author captures it with near perfection. I loved how all the loose ends came together and were tied up at the conclusion. The faith thread was woven intricately within and I found this to be a great read. Highly recommend if you are looking for something different but profound.
I received a complimentary copy from the author. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Illusion of Love is the first book I have read by Sarah Hamaker. I thought it was a pretty good read. There was a lot I like reading in a book: Relatable characters, action, danger, suspense, mystery and romance. I had to keep reading to find out what was going to happen to Mary and Jared next. The plot was a unique and different that kept me captivated. It was so very good.

I am giving Illusion of Love a very well deserved five plus stars. I recommend it for readers who enjoy reading clean romantic suspense. I would be interested in reading more by Sarah Hamaker in the future. This one is definitely worth a read and should not be missed.
 
I received a paperback copy of Illusion of Love from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.