The second book of Erika Bradley's damaged heart trilogy, "Deception," continues the disappointing trend set by its predecessor. Once again, the main character Zyon fails to live up to expectations and showcases a lack of character development. The secrets revealed in this installment are dragged out for unnecessary drama, making for a frustrating read.
As a reader, it becomes increasingly difficult to feel any sympathy or compassion towards the characters. Their chemistry is sorely lacking, and their issues could easily be resolved if they just communicated openly. However, they continue to struggle, making their situation even more pitiful.
One of the main issues that persists throughout the series is the weak portrayal of Gabriel. He is portrayed as a weak and unsupportive partner, making it difficult to fathom why Zyon would even want to be with him. His lack of effort and commitment to the relationship further diminishes any sense of chemistry between the two characters.
In "Deception," the characters become even more pathetic than they were in the first book. Their insecurities and struggles seem never-ending, and their inability to communicate effectively continues to hinder their progress as a couple. The repetitive nature of their issues and the slow pace of the story make it challenging for the reader to stay connected or invested in their well-being.
Ultimately, I am not convinced that these two belong together. Gabriel's weaknesses and lack of effort make him an unworthy partner for Zyon, who deserves someone who is more supportive and understanding. The chemistry between them is lacking, and it is clear that they are not compatible in the long run.
In conclusion, "Deception" is a mediocre continuation of Erika Bradley's damaged heart trilogy. The continuation of the same tropes and lack of character development further diminish my interest in the story. Zyon remains an insecure and pitiful character, while Gabriel is portrayed as weak and not worth the effort for a relationship.
The characters lack chemistry, and their issues could be easily resolved with a bit of effort. Ultimately, I am not convinced that these two belong together, as they simply lack the depth and compatibility required to sustain a meaningful relationship.