Of Love and Deception

Tainted Love Saga #1

by Kayla Lowe

A mysterious stranger steals Sarah’s attention away from her college classes; is he the man of her dreams… or her worst nightmare?

Sarah MacKenzie’s an everyday young woman working toward a bright future. College, of course, comes with exciting new phases in her life, new relationships, new ideas, and new experiences.

So when Sarah meets a mysterious stranger online, she’s happy to start cultivating a friendship that quickly runs deeper.

This guy loves The Phantom of the Opera and all the same things she does; clearly they’re meant to be. Maybe for a minute, maybe for a day, heck, maybe a lifetime? Sarah’s too young to do more than fantasize about happily ever after; after all, she’s just starting out. But something about this guy starts to feel… off. Sarah’s pretty sure she knows him already, though they’ve never met offline. What would her parents say about her online whirlwind romance? And is this guy all he’s made himself up to be? Is he her Prince Charming? Or is he the villain in her story?

Love...deception...violence...abuse...crime...sin...addiction...betrayal...Explore the complex dynamics of online dating, family relationships, and self-perception in the Tainted Love saga, a powerful coming of age story of one young woman's journey through abuse and much more.

Genres: Romance, Ebooks, Thriller

288 pages, Paperback

Published February 1, 2021

About the author

Award-winning author Kayla Lowe writes women's fiction that explores complex themes with sensitivity and depth. Kayla’s books delve into the intricacies of relationships, self-discovery, and resilience. From cozy love stories interspersed with a bit of faith to heartwarming tales of friendship and suspenseful novels of empowerment and heartbreak, her books illustrate the struggles specific to women.

When she’s not churning out her next novel, you can find her with her feet in the sand and a book in her hand or curled up on the couch with her dogs.

Go to www.authorkaylalowe.com for a free book!

Reviews

[Jasmine (Jazzie) [Jesus Loves You!!] · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was debating whether I should give this 3 stars or 4, but ultimately, I had to go with 3 because of the bad words, suggestive comments, and the fact that I was never truly comfortable with their romance.
I liked Sarah alright, more so in the beginning than the rest of the book, but Bruce, on the other hand, I wasn't overly fond of. At the start, I thought him kind of sweet, but that didn't last long.
The further I got into the book, the more things didn't seem as they once did. The age gap was quite a bit too large for me, but other people might be fine with it. I also wasn't fond of the cliffhanger, either.

I did love all of the The Phantom of the Opera things that were in it, though!

Overall, some other people might like this book, but it wasn't for me. I might read the rest of the series because I hope things work out well for Sarah in the end, but I'm not sure if I will...

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sarah MacKenzie and her best friend/cousin, Addison, are settling into their freshman dorm and ready to start college life. The future seems to hold endless possibilities for these two girls from good homes with loving, supportive parents. Both girls are excellent students and as they begin classes they fall into a routine of studying and enjoying each other's company.
One thing they have at college that they didn't have at home is... faster internet! Sarah is a Phantom of the Opera Phan and she enjoys interacting online with others who share her passion. It's just harmless fun, the way Addison feels about her favorite group, Duran Duran.
But just as they are getting ready to go out to dinner with friends, a message pops up on Sarah's laptop signed YOUR PHANTOM LOVER all in caps and his opening sentence stops her in her tracks: WELL HELLO THERE, ANGEL! Who could this be? Why all caps?
Later, while enjoying ice cream in their room with Addison, Sarah opens her laptop to find more messages from this mysterious Phantom presence. Bit by bit, message by message, Sarah and her mysterious Phantom begin to communicate and then they move beyond simply messaging to sharing their innermost thoughts, dreams and ... feelings.
Can Sarah be falling for someone who seems to be luring her deeper and deeper into an online reality. Addison has been chatting with someone, too. The ability of the faster internet seems to distract these two young women from what was most important to them, getting a good college education and making their parents and grandparents proud of them.
Sarah, especially, finds herself longing for those moments when she can chat with her Phantom. Will she ever meet this Opera Ghost in real life? Will he be everything she dreamed about if she does?
Author Kayla Lowe brings these young women and their families to life in a completely believable way. I found myself yelling at the Kindle and trying to advise Sarah to wait, to be cautious! Can this online Phantom be too good to be true? Be sure to get a copy of Of Love and Deception, and by the end you, too, will find yourself anxiously awaiting the next chapter of the Tainted Love series!

[Stephanie Runyon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kayla Lowe's suspenseful romance novel Of Love  And Deception was a great short read for me. Sarah and her cousin Addisson were entering their first year of college. Sarah was an obsessed fan of The Phantom Of The Opera  and knew the entire story. She made her school profile and joined a chatroom for similar fans. One afternoon she received a message in all capital letters from someone she did not know. After several messages, Sarah decided that she liked Bruce enough to continue talking to him. As the school year went on, she found that she looked forward to talking online. Eventually, she got the courage to speak to him on the phone. They made plans to meet in August. Knowing that her parents would not approve of her decision, Sarah did not tell them about Bruce. The day comes that Bruce was going to arrive at the bus station, and she would finally meet her phantom. When she meets Bruce, she was shocked.

I love how Lowe built the suspense in the book. I looked forward to their talks just as much as the character did. Since she was there on a scholarship, I did wonder if her grades started slipping because of her lack of focus on schoolwork? It was effortless to see that Sarah  was naive since she used The Phantom of The Opera  as a comparison for how she decided what she wanted to do in the relationship. I look forward to the sequel as Lowe skillfully wrote the ending of this edition leaving so many questions unanswered. I have to know what becomes of Sarah's forbidden relationship with Bruce. This is definitely a 5-star book unquestionably.

[Karelyn Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have you ever read a book that just sucks you in like it was a black hole to another dimension? You open the book and start reading, and the next thing you know, hours have passed. You’ve forgotten about that pot of beans on the stove or your kid at school waiting on you to pick them up. Yeah, Of Love and Deception is that kind of book.

Sarah MacKenzie has just moved away from home to begin her freshman year of college. She’s a good girl from a loving family. She’s serious about studying and making good grades.

She’s also a huge Phantom of the Opera fan, and little does she know this passion will soon take her on the ride of her life with twists and turns that are both thrilling and frightening.

No sooner has Sarah unpacked and settled in her dorm room than an online stranger strikes up a chat with her on a social media platform. The stranger is a fellow Phan (fan of Phantom of the Opera).

She enjoys her conversation with her newfound friend so much that in no time at all, she finds herself spending all her free time on the Internet chatting with him. As the days and weeks pass, an online relationship develops between Sarah and her Phantom Lover.

Then, Phantom Lover wants to meet Sarah in person. Is he all that he claims to be? Does he really care for Sarah, or is their relationship only a cyber fantasy? Does Sarah’s future promise a happy ending or disaster? You’ll have to read the book to find out.

What I thought about this book:

Of Love and Deception is the first installment of the “Tainted Love Saga” series. It’s a well-written book with scenes and dialogue that stole my attention away and held me captive until the ending. Soon after I began reading this book, I was swept away with the plot. I didn’t want to stop reading. I was gripped with the need to know how the story turned out. The ending is a bit of a surprise, and it also makes me definitely want to read the next installment.

Out of a 5-star rating, I give Of Love and Deception five stars because it’s just that good!

I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

[Mya Elizabeth Hill · Rating 4 out of 5]

You ever read a book when the heroine is acting so dumb and naive that you want to bang your head against a wall and she’s making choices that will ruin her life forever but you can’t stop reading because you think to yourself this can’t possible be real she can’t possibly be this idiotic but she actually is and you have to watch her destroy herself in the name of love and it’s so addicting and interesting to read?

You ever read a book like that?
If you haven’t then read this one..
When I tell you I just have said “OH MY GOOOOOOOSH” about 100 times for this book, I’m not lying
I fib not
No lies detected
This book was definitely written in a time before girls had internet smarts I’ll tell you that much
2024 girls would NEVER
I enjoy age gaps
BUT THIS
THE LYING
THE DECEPTION
THE NAIVETY OF THIS INFURIATING 18/19 YEAR OLD WHO THINKS SHE KNOWS EVERYTHING
It is truly BAFFLING
Like this really brings awareness to the dangers of the internet and it’s terrifyingly sobering
I had no idea this was a series
I’m thinking this was a one and done book
NO
NO IT AINT
IT HAS SEVEN. BOOKS
I already read a seven book series this year but I guess I’m about to read another one bc I need to know how this all unfolds

The plot really grabs a firm hold of you and you’ll have a burning desire to know what happens next
Me
That’s happening to me right now

The ending is upsetting for me but I saw it coming
It just sucks to see a pretty girl who has the world ahead of her to just throw it all down the drain because she doesn’t listen to cautionary advice and the loving warnings from her family

Like 7 books guys…
I just know Sarah is gonna go through it and I’m probably gonna cry
I bought book 2 instantly with only $5 to my name yall
I’m goin down this rabbit hole of a series
Send help if you don’t hear from me within a week
Much love!

[Tamara Dell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have a love/hate relationship with this book.... As a mother of a daughter this age, who has herself just gone off to post-secondary schooling, this book scares the hell out of me, and it pisses me off to no end. I couldn't stop reading it however, even though it stressed me out to go to the next paragraph, let alone the next chapter. I kept waiting for the 'bogeyman' to show himself (by this I mean the monster that every parent has nightmares about when it comes to their teenage daughters, in the form of Bruce, the old man who pretends to be 30 in the beginning).

I don't know if I will ever read the rest of the books in this series, or if I will try and leave it in the past, because my mind has played out so many different scenarios as to the ultimate end of this whole situation and I'm not sure how I would take any of them.

I've never wanted to strangle an author so badly, or ask her what she was thinking when writing a book, and still want to ask her where she is taking the story in the next book!

Kayla Lowe is very good at getting the readers attention and holding it through every word she writes. She makes it very real through her descriptions of every little detail. You can picture the people, the places, and feel all the feelings.

I would recommend this book, especially to 16/17 year old girls, to give them a reason to not get drawn into the world of internet chatting with strangers!

I was given this book by the author and asked to write an unbiased review, which I think I have done here.

[Anne Rouen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This thought-provoking first book of a series enmeshed me from the first word. The author's portrayal of a naïve young innocent stepping out into the world for the first time is masterly and her stalker had me creeped-out before the end of Chapter 2. As her character, Sarah, becomes more and more obsessed, the irony of what happens when her family try to intervene in a situation fast becoming out of control, is a lesson that needs to be considered by every parent. Can they make things right or will they only drive her further away? I am looking forward to finding out.
I grew up without the internet but was able to identify with Sarah in a way that raised the hair on my scalp several times and I congratulate the author on her ability to create such a compelling read.
This may be a work of fiction but it is a serious book addressing a serious issue that is, sadly, becoming more and more prevalent and rings very true, today. Everyone using social media, meeting others online, or thinking about an online relationship needs to read this book.

[DianFlow · Rating 2 out of 5]

I thought this might be an intriguing mystery (which it was) and a book I'd recommend to single women, especially naive, young girls who enjoy talking to strange men on the internet. Unfortunately, I can't do that.

I thought the author included faith elements in her novels . . . otherwise I wouldn't have read it. The heroine has good parents, but 3/4 of the way through her pastor father throws in a few choice curse words. Not light ones either. Had he given his daughter scriptures instead of swear words, he may have at least given her something to mull over. I'll probably be thought of as a nerd, but it's just my personal preference not to read or use profanity.

Also, it ends in a cliffhanger so one would need to read the entire 8(?) book series for resolution! The premise of the story was interesting and one that sucked me right in, but I can't recommend it. So sorry.

[June Patterson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sarah and Addison are cousins who are so close they do almost everything together, including rooming together in college. They have led very sheltered lives in their small hometown and they as well as their parents are glad they are together to support and protect each other. This was wonderful until they found out about the online social world. Sarah joined using a mask from Phantom of the Opera as her profile picture as she was a true fan. This drew in lots of people/friends in a short time and Sarah became addicted to the point of skipping classes and not studying like she knew she should. She met a guy named Bruce, who really plays her and gets her to trust him completely. Where will this lead?.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Frances Curry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wish I could step in.....

I think this book did a great job catching a sheltered, naive young girl. Making what she thought were wise decisions. Unfortunately, I've lived longer and wanted to cry out many times throughout this book. As someone whose sister unfortunately tasted a few weeks in sex trafficking I was happy it didn't go that route, though with what she did, it very easily could have. Although this book leaves you feeling all might be good. I doubt the rest of the series will end similar.

The book definitely pulls you in. It stays clean. I think it's a cautionary tale on how easy it is to make wrong choices. How her parents tried to do what they felt like was right and only pushed her further away. Unfortunately, some kids learn life lessons the hard way.

It's worth the read.

[Becky Davison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kayla Lowe has certainly showcased her diverse writing talent with this book. She has deftly outlined how online relationships can lead naive young women into dangerous territory. This psychological thriller kept me turning pages while also leaving me feeling "creeped out" at Bruce's subtle, calculated maneuvering of Sarah's emotions and heart. To be honest, this is not one of my favorite books of Kayla's because of the subject matter, and the plot is disturbing, at least for me. That being said, however, the author has done an excellent job covering a difficult issue that currently plagues our world. It is definitely worth reading.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Bobbi Wagner · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first book by this author which I enjoyed from beginning to end. It is a suspenseful story about Sarah and a man she meets. As he takes her attention away from her classes, she falls into a romance with him. The problem is that he could be her worst nightmare or he could be her prince charming. Which one is he? Are things as they should be? I enjoyed the characters and what they brought to the story. They brought suspense to a new level. This is a fast acting story that is engaging and I highly recommend it. A story full of action that was hard to put down. Worth the pick up.

[Alicia Marsland · Rating 4 out of 5]

Realistic and grim

I did not enjoy the book as the heroine goes into a downhill slide with an internet charmer. Frankly, he's someone whose over -familiar speech and manner would immediately creep me out. And guys like that immediately did, even when I was her age. So i can't help wondering, after all the warnings she'd received, why she went with it. The sequel may provide the answer in her psyche.

[Hannah · Rating 2 out of 5]

There was a fair amount to suffer through in his book.
* What 18 year old girl isn’t immediately creeped out by a 30 year old man messaging them online?
*The language is unlike anyone speaks.
*The sheer amount of mundane details the author thought fit to include in the story meant the storyline DRAGGED.

I thought it would all be worth it when we reached the crescendo, but I get to the final page and

*SPOILER*

It’s a cliffhanger!!! There’s more books to come. I am SO frustrated.

[Jasmine Wathey-Boot · Rating 5 out of 5]

I got this book from voracious books. Wow just wow. In just 2 days I've finished the book and it had me hooked from the start. I saw my self in the character. So young and silly. I still don't know who to side with as I see all characters points of view and feel their emotions. Although the ending has me pissed and excited for the morning to order the next in the series 😂. I really want to know what's next!!! Highly recommend this book

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first time I have read a book by Kayla Lowe. But I can guarantee it won't be the last. This book had me on the edge of my seat coming up with different scenarios. Extremely well written, this book will leave you anxiously awaiting the next installment. I highly recommend this book and this author.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read many books by Kayla, and they all have been FABOULOUS 5 stars, but WOW this book really steals the show when it comes to reading a truly great book. I didn't know what to expect honestly but this book has romance, suspense and is thrilling to read. I am excited to see what book 2 brings next.

[RoseVE · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was such a gift. I don't want to give anything away, but this is the best analysis of a certain kind of online behavior that I've ever seen. It was intense and spot on. Both individuals in this story were described perfectly and therefore it came to the logical conclusion. A real treasure.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Mary Russell · Rating 2 out of 5]

I found the book too wordy with more of the same throughout the book. I found myself skimming sections which I normally don’t do. I’m not invested enough to continue with the series. I would have liked Addy’s character to have been developed more as she was a key person in the beginning of the story and Sarah’s life.

[Sharon Hicks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Read

From the prologue to the last sentence I could not put this book down. I wanted to go on the journey with Sarah. Great characters and writing style. Buy this book now you won’t regret it!!!!!

[J.A. Martin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Strange yet compelling

While it took me a little longer than expected to feel immersed in the story, I thought that the characterization, the plot, and the narrative were well written. I didn’t completely care for the dialogue, but still enjoyed the story.

[Mary-jayne · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a complimentary copy of the book from vivacious reads from the author

A scary look at online dating and the innocents of teenagers.

I love this book and look forward to reading more from the author.

[Diane · Rating 4 out of 5]

Predator

The evils of online predators is very evident here. When you combine a naive girl with an older street smart man, you have trouble. I’m disappointed that the story really didn’t end.

[Clara K Page · Rating 4 out of 5]

Different

This book isn't the type of book that I normally read. I found it a little disturbing even though it was well written and true to life, I fear!

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

good book

[Deni · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good

[Kathy Wolf · Rating 1 out of 5]

Ridiculous main character. Hopefully young women that stupid don't even exist! Grammar is also annoying, using frequent wrong verbal tenses.

[Ev]

Sorry I can’t even give this one star. It was awful.

[Tami Willard · Rating 4 out of 5]

This might be a good series for high school/college age women to read as a learning tool. This book is only the beginning of the story but as a mom of three daughters in their early 20's it hits home. 17 yrs old and just moved in to the dorms from a very sheltered home. She starts messaging a stranger, older man who shows interest in her and her interests. How far will their relationship go? What happens when her family finds out? Will this story end with a HEA or a hard lesson learned?.

I received a copy of this book from the author. Review voluntarily given.

[Theat · Rating 5 out of 5]

This one took me in at the first few pages. For those who will love to the bottom of their heart and then think, this is for you. Its a serious book about a real problem facing the world of today.

See full review here, its pretty far down
https://gszengarden.wixsite.com/mylit...