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Haunting Emma #1
Deception
When Emma Vaile's parents leave on mysterious business trip, it gives her the perfect excuse to be a rebellious teen. Throw some parties, get a tattoo (or maybe just a piercing), and enjoy the first few weeks of her junior year. Then her best friend stops talking to her, the cops crash her party, and Emma finds herself in the hands of a new guardian--her college-age "knight in J.Crew armor," Bennett Stern--and on a plane to his museum-like mansion in New England.
After enrolling at Thatcher Academy, Emma settles in by making friends with the popular legacy crowd. But she can't shake the strange visions that are haunting her. She has memories of Thatcher she can't explain, as if she's returning home to a place she's never been. Emma doesn't trust anyone anymore--except maybe Bennett. But he's about to reveal a ghostly secret to Emma. One that will explain the visions . . . and make Emma fear for her life.
310 pages, Paperback
First published June 1, 2010
70 people are currently reading
11k people want to read
About the author
Lee Nichols
23Ìýbooks380ÌýfollowersLee Nichols is the author of five novels for adults, including the bestselling TALES OF A DRAMA QUEEN. She'll be making her YA debut in 2010 with DECEPTION: A Haunting Emma Novel. Follow her on Twitter at LeeXNichols or Friend her on Facebook at Lee Nichols.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 513 reviews
February 21, 2017
So I picked this one up because a student was like "HAVE YOU READ THIS? IT'S PRETTY GREAT, YOU SHOULD READ IT" and occasionally I like to make slightly foolish forays into what the kidlets are reading and see just how terrible their taste really is.
In this case? Moderately terrible.
The main character, Emma? Yeah, she's a little bit of a special snowflake Mary Sue. Changes schools and is suddenly instapopular. Discovers she has powers and has The Most Impressive Powers Of Ever. All the boys are in the love with her. She's brilliant at maths and Latin and ghostly powers blah blah blah. (Speaking of which, conversational Latin is...not a thing? Like, in any ancient language class, there is no conversation/spoken portion of the class. At all. Ever. And I'm certainly not convinced that a teenage boy could translate "MILF" into Latin in conversation on the fly. Like...???)
Despite that, I did actually enjoy the ghost side of things, and I'm moderately interested in reading the next book. But, like, once I read all the books that have, you know, non-snowflake protagonists...
In this case? Moderately terrible.
The main character, Emma? Yeah, she's a little bit of a special snowflake Mary Sue. Changes schools and is suddenly instapopular. Discovers she has powers and has The Most Impressive Powers Of Ever. All the boys are in the love with her. She's brilliant at maths and Latin and ghostly powers blah blah blah. (Speaking of which, conversational Latin is...not a thing? Like, in any ancient language class, there is no conversation/spoken portion of the class. At all. Ever. And I'm certainly not convinced that a teenage boy could translate "MILF" into Latin in conversation on the fly. Like...???)
Despite that, I did actually enjoy the ghost side of things, and I'm moderately interested in reading the next book. But, like, once I read all the books that have, you know, non-snowflake protagonists...
September 9, 2011
Favourite Quote: "He really was perfect. If only he was perfect for me."
Wow! What an impressive start to an awesome new series! I was surprised at how much I enjoyed Deception.
Deception was so easy to get into with it's engaging writing and perfect pacing. It is a slightly eerie tale that never has a dull moment. At the beginning I thought the plot was going to be a little predictable (but in the enjoyable sense) but there was quite a few completely unexpected twists. I like the fact that Nichols' manage to surprise me. It definitely makes me craving to find out what shocking surprises Nichols' has installed for us in book two Betrayal.
Emma was a fun and likeable character. Despite her struggles she never really moped around but rather got on with things as best with things as she could. I certainly don't think I would have been as strong as her with her family missing, moving into a strange town and suddenly being able to see ghosts. Then you have the mysterious Bennett. He was a hard to character to read at first but by the end of the book his secrets are starting to unravel. I found the more he opened up the more I liked him.
However, the romance fell a little short for me. Emma love life is a little complicated and I don't quite feel the chemistry with a certain guy. I certainly see the potential of a amazing romantic relationship but I don't believe it yet. Hopefully book #2 will change my mind.
Overall, Deception was a fun yet haunting tale with intriguing characters and a fantastic premise that kept me constantly entertained. I can't wait for more.
Wow! What an impressive start to an awesome new series! I was surprised at how much I enjoyed Deception.
Deception was so easy to get into with it's engaging writing and perfect pacing. It is a slightly eerie tale that never has a dull moment. At the beginning I thought the plot was going to be a little predictable (but in the enjoyable sense) but there was quite a few completely unexpected twists. I like the fact that Nichols' manage to surprise me. It definitely makes me craving to find out what shocking surprises Nichols' has installed for us in book two Betrayal.
Emma was a fun and likeable character. Despite her struggles she never really moped around but rather got on with things as best with things as she could. I certainly don't think I would have been as strong as her with her family missing, moving into a strange town and suddenly being able to see ghosts. Then you have the mysterious Bennett. He was a hard to character to read at first but by the end of the book his secrets are starting to unravel. I found the more he opened up the more I liked him.
However, the romance fell a little short for me. Emma love life is a little complicated and I don't quite feel the chemistry with a certain guy. I certainly see the potential of a amazing romantic relationship but I don't believe it yet. Hopefully book #2 will change my mind.
Overall, Deception was a fun yet haunting tale with intriguing characters and a fantastic premise that kept me constantly entertained. I can't wait for more.
August 15, 2011
First off, I HATE this cover! It almost made me not read this story, I know don't judge a book by its cover right??!?! Then I noticed that #1 in the title... and thought "oh no, not another series book".
Well, my instincts were wrong on this one. I loved this. I was so interested in the story. I loved the character and the ending was genius. I want #2 NOW!
Brief summary.... slight spoilers
Emma is not like other girls. She can summon ghosts and communicate with them and now she can dispell them. She is having strange visions. All of this is new to her as well and quite shocking. She feels so alone. Her parents abandoned her. Her Brother abandoned her and now her best friend has joined the bandwagon. She is alone. She is saved from child services by Bennett, a family friend in the nick of time. He takes her in, only to leave her pretty much to herself and the ghosts in his home/musuem. She meets new friends at school, but no one to talk to. She finds out some pretty interesting family secrets-hers and Bennett's.
4 stars based on enjoyment. I had fun. I want to read the next book.
I also have to compliment the author on how not predictable this was.
This might not be everyone's cup of tea.... let's see, I think you will enjoy this if you liked the Evernight Series, like YA type books or are into ghost (but not too spooky) stories.
Well, my instincts were wrong on this one. I loved this. I was so interested in the story. I loved the character and the ending was genius. I want #2 NOW!
Brief summary.... slight spoilers
Emma is not like other girls. She can summon ghosts and communicate with them and now she can dispell them. She is having strange visions. All of this is new to her as well and quite shocking. She feels so alone. Her parents abandoned her. Her Brother abandoned her and now her best friend has joined the bandwagon. She is alone. She is saved from child services by Bennett, a family friend in the nick of time. He takes her in, only to leave her pretty much to herself and the ghosts in his home/musuem. She meets new friends at school, but no one to talk to. She finds out some pretty interesting family secrets-hers and Bennett's.
4 stars based on enjoyment. I had fun. I want to read the next book.
I also have to compliment the author on how not predictable this was.
This might not be everyone's cup of tea.... let's see, I think you will enjoy this if you liked the Evernight Series, like YA type books or are into ghost (but not too spooky) stories.
May 27, 2010
Modern Young Adult Ghost story that will keep the reader guessing through the entire story. Emma is a very likable character that is about to discover she has abilities beyond her wildest imagination. She soon finds herself amidst a world where she is not only gifted, but hunted for her powers that sets her apart from all the others. [return][return]Deception is set in a very intriguing world where Ghostkeepers are constantly at work to keep the balance between the living and the dead. This allowing for an abundance of exciting characters that may not all be living. Nichols world is one where no one should be taken at for granted, and very few can be trusted. As a ghost story I did not feel the scary and spooky nature that typically accompanies this type of story. I find Deception to be intriguing and genuinely great story writing. Lee Nichols proves to be a talented author that will hold the readers attention to the very last word, and will control your thought beyond the last page. With her twists and turns you will find yourself done before you know it. [return][return]This was not only an awesome story, but an amazing love story all wrapped up into one. Emma and Bennett seem to carry a love that have struggled through time. Even with the immediate addition of feelings from Emma; Nichols recovers quickly and builds the relationship to its height in this story. I found this love to be mostly an unspoken attraction, but the emotion and attraction is undeniable. I love a story that can give you butterflies, and make even the reader fall in love. [return][return]The ending to this novel was drastic and unexpected; leaving me only to wonder how this author will be able to surpass herself in the next novel. It is difficult to create a story that totally changes after the climax, and that is the only way I can explain this novel. It was like a whole new story after Emma s battle. Nichols also throws an extra twist at the very end of this novel that will cause the reader to question everything that the story has built. Don t read this book looking for a quick and easy read; the story will demand your attention and focus. With so much detail packed into 304 pages; I can only guess what Emma s second novel will bring. [return][return]Lastly, as in my tradition I like to talk a little about the cover. I love a book with a mystery cover. This is a cover that once you have the read the story the cover makes complete sense. While this book is no totally confusing, it did pack some mystery in the pages that I find to be a great addition to the cover. Unfortunately, after having read the book the character on the cover is not what my imagination had set for Emma. Though, as I am sure many other book lovers can testify that before even turning the first page this is an attractive cover that many love. [return]
April 8, 2012
Wow. This book sucks.
Big time.
Honestly I never finished it. I got halfway through and was like "What the hell!" And slammed it shut, angry.
First things first: The plot.
This book sounded like it was written by a child. Litterally, I couldn't help picture myself reading this off of FanFiction by some ameteur writer. It sounded like a first draft, something that never should have gotten published.
So Emma's parents go to visit her brother is God knows where, and suddenly they dissapear. Gone. Not recieving her calls or texts or anything. It like they've dissapeared from the earth.
How the hell can your parents get lost on a freaken vacation? I mean, I know i haven't read why they got lost or whatever, because it was so damn boring, but...how?
I especially love how everyone overreacts and sends her to a damn barn to sleep in and want to put her under foster care. What if her parents cell phone battery died and they couldn't text her back? What if they came home and was like "WHERE'S MY DAUGHTER!"
"...Oh yeah, sorry miss. But since we didn't send out any search parties and never really gave a shit, we just put your daughter in foster care halfway around the world. Cheers."
Mhmm. Yeah. I think that's how it went.
The next thing were the character. And I don't mean Emma. You know, the guy who's name starts with a B and end with "idiot?" Yeah that guy.
I found absoloutely NO chemistry between Emma and B-idiot. And whats this whole thing about "forbidden love?" Seriously, it wouldn't be more forbidden than her wanting to hook up with a horse. If they're talking about the age thing, its BS. I've seen a bigger age gap in more books than I can count.
A couple of other things that really freaked me out were the "ghosts" and what they said. How did it go again?
"YOU MUST TAKE YOUR CLOTHES OFF! I WILL CUT YOU!"
I think thats pretty close. I had to stop once it mention rapist ghosts.
I would NOT reccomend the book to ANYONE...ever.
Big time.
Honestly I never finished it. I got halfway through and was like "What the hell!" And slammed it shut, angry.
First things first: The plot.
This book sounded like it was written by a child. Litterally, I couldn't help picture myself reading this off of FanFiction by some ameteur writer. It sounded like a first draft, something that never should have gotten published.
So Emma's parents go to visit her brother is God knows where, and suddenly they dissapear. Gone. Not recieving her calls or texts or anything. It like they've dissapeared from the earth.
How the hell can your parents get lost on a freaken vacation? I mean, I know i haven't read why they got lost or whatever, because it was so damn boring, but...how?
I especially love how everyone overreacts and sends her to a damn barn to sleep in and want to put her under foster care. What if her parents cell phone battery died and they couldn't text her back? What if they came home and was like "WHERE'S MY DAUGHTER!"
"...Oh yeah, sorry miss. But since we didn't send out any search parties and never really gave a shit, we just put your daughter in foster care halfway around the world. Cheers."
Mhmm. Yeah. I think that's how it went.
The next thing were the character. And I don't mean Emma. You know, the guy who's name starts with a B and end with "idiot?" Yeah that guy.
I found absoloutely NO chemistry between Emma and B-idiot. And whats this whole thing about "forbidden love?" Seriously, it wouldn't be more forbidden than her wanting to hook up with a horse. If they're talking about the age thing, its BS. I've seen a bigger age gap in more books than I can count.
A couple of other things that really freaked me out were the "ghosts" and what they said. How did it go again?
"YOU MUST TAKE YOUR CLOTHES OFF! I WILL CUT YOU!"
I think thats pretty close. I had to stop once it mention rapist ghosts.
I would NOT reccomend the book to ANYONE...ever.
May 10, 2011
Sorry Kristi, I want to like this book as much as you, but I just can't. The last 70 pages or so make me want to ultimate punch baby dolphins or club baby seals. For the record, I did like the first three-quarters of this book.
Full review will be posted soon.
Full review will be posted soon.
Read
July 29, 2021finally trying to read through my tbr list... middle school me would have loved this book
March 3, 2024
The thing that I really enjoyed about this book was Emma. She was so funny! Don't get me wrong, there were times when her boy-craziness really made me want to scream, "Take it down a notch, chick!" But mostly, I found her just adorable and laughably snarky. She reminded me of Frankie, and Evie, and Sophie, all those girls that I wish I could be friends with!
Deception was a mix of ghost-story, mystery, thriller, comedy, and romance. The lore that Lee Nichols created was incredibly fascinating, and I have a feeling that it will get more detailed and interesting as the series goes on. There were a lot of things that Emma had to learn in this book, about her abilities to see and interact with the ghosts that have come into her life. There are lots of mysteries that still need to be solved, like where are her parents? What's up with Bennett? How will her powers manifest themselves in the future? And quite a few other things that were left unsolved.
Deception was a quick fun read. It started off pretty light and easy, but as it progressed got a little deeper and more involved. I think it will be interesting to see where the next books take us. Especially after the cliffhanger, and completely unexpected ending that we are left with. If you enjoy books about the world of ghosts, I think you'll like this book.
Book Doppelgangers: Past Midnight by Mara Purnhagen, Intrinsical by Lani Woodland, The Soul Screamers Series by Rachel Vincent.
Andye
Deception was a mix of ghost-story, mystery, thriller, comedy, and romance. The lore that Lee Nichols created was incredibly fascinating, and I have a feeling that it will get more detailed and interesting as the series goes on. There were a lot of things that Emma had to learn in this book, about her abilities to see and interact with the ghosts that have come into her life. There are lots of mysteries that still need to be solved, like where are her parents? What's up with Bennett? How will her powers manifest themselves in the future? And quite a few other things that were left unsolved.
Deception was a quick fun read. It started off pretty light and easy, but as it progressed got a little deeper and more involved. I think it will be interesting to see where the next books take us. Especially after the cliffhanger, and completely unexpected ending that we are left with. If you enjoy books about the world of ghosts, I think you'll like this book.
Book Doppelgangers: Past Midnight by Mara Purnhagen, Intrinsical by Lani Woodland, The Soul Screamers Series by Rachel Vincent.
Andye
June 3, 2010
There are some book synopses I really, really hate, and this book had one of them. It mentions private schools, absent parents, a hot preppie guy, and the eerie paranormal (insert spooky sounds here). How utterly mundane. Can we get a “hasn’t this setup been done before?�
What the synopsis fails to mention, however, is just how smart, interesting, and different DECEPTION is from the rest of the pack. DECEPTION is an entertaining, funny, and touching read that had me caught up in a fictional world I normally don’t take to.
After an admittedly bumpy start, DECEPTION brings us Emma Vaile—smart, sassy, strong, romantic—and an equally lively and engaging cast of characters. Perhaps this was just my experience, but Emma is not someone you can really relate to: rather, you just really, really want to be her. She handles her bad luck with an appealing modern sensibility that will have you nodding along in agreement to her reactions, decisions, and quips.
Likewise, the other characters are equally strong and memorable. Emma’s school friends don’t feel like hollow shells of what high school students should act and sound like. Instead, they are endearingly flawed, jaded, sweet, irritating—you name the emotion, you’ve probably got it. Bennett, too, is far more than a hot, well-dressed love interest. He has his own deeply rooted passions, insecurities, and worries, too. (And thank goodness, or I might’ve inflicted injury upon the nearest wall.) You could think of reading DECEPTION almost like watching a CW TV show: it’s not exactly realistic, and some of the scenarios are a bit unbelievable, but the dialogue is snappy, the teen actors are top-notch, and you just can’t stop yourself from coming back for more.
I thought that the ghost element of DECEPTION was also very well done, familiar enough to attract readers, but original enough to keep the more critical of us on our toes. The paranormal conflict in this story had depth and history. It is a conflict that spans centuries and dimensions, all in a reasonably believable and definitely enthralling way that I can see smoothly carrying over into future installments.
DECEPTION is a book that defied my expectations. I was expecting clichéd paranormal-romance-mystery drivel; I got an engaging and snarky read with fantastic characterization. Overall, a paranormal mystery read that is a cut above mere wish-fulfillment fun. I will definitely keep an eye out for the sequel.
What the synopsis fails to mention, however, is just how smart, interesting, and different DECEPTION is from the rest of the pack. DECEPTION is an entertaining, funny, and touching read that had me caught up in a fictional world I normally don’t take to.
After an admittedly bumpy start, DECEPTION brings us Emma Vaile—smart, sassy, strong, romantic—and an equally lively and engaging cast of characters. Perhaps this was just my experience, but Emma is not someone you can really relate to: rather, you just really, really want to be her. She handles her bad luck with an appealing modern sensibility that will have you nodding along in agreement to her reactions, decisions, and quips.
Likewise, the other characters are equally strong and memorable. Emma’s school friends don’t feel like hollow shells of what high school students should act and sound like. Instead, they are endearingly flawed, jaded, sweet, irritating—you name the emotion, you’ve probably got it. Bennett, too, is far more than a hot, well-dressed love interest. He has his own deeply rooted passions, insecurities, and worries, too. (And thank goodness, or I might’ve inflicted injury upon the nearest wall.) You could think of reading DECEPTION almost like watching a CW TV show: it’s not exactly realistic, and some of the scenarios are a bit unbelievable, but the dialogue is snappy, the teen actors are top-notch, and you just can’t stop yourself from coming back for more.
I thought that the ghost element of DECEPTION was also very well done, familiar enough to attract readers, but original enough to keep the more critical of us on our toes. The paranormal conflict in this story had depth and history. It is a conflict that spans centuries and dimensions, all in a reasonably believable and definitely enthralling way that I can see smoothly carrying over into future installments.
DECEPTION is a book that defied my expectations. I was expecting clichéd paranormal-romance-mystery drivel; I got an engaging and snarky read with fantastic characterization. Overall, a paranormal mystery read that is a cut above mere wish-fulfillment fun. I will definitely keep an eye out for the sequel.
June 11, 2010
Even days after reading Deception, it is hard to put into words the feelings that I have towards this remarkable novel. When I picked up Deception, I was not too sure what I was getting myself into. But what I definitely was not expecting was how much this novel would draw me in.
Nichols deserves high praise for Deception for a number of reasons. First of all, she includes translations with her usages of foreign language. Now this may not seem like a big deal to many of you, but for me, this alone put Deception in my good graces. I love, love, love when author's include either translations or some other type of clues that allow the reader to easily follow along with whatever may be occurring. Nichols not only includes the translations, but she makes the language usage have a connection with the plot itself, so in a way she gets double brownie points from me.
Deception, additionally, blew me away with its characters and plot. I loved that nothing felt rushed about the novel. Every aspect is given plenty of time to develop and blend with the other elements giving the novel a very complete feeling. By the end of the novel, I felt like I knew these characters... how they thought, the way their minds worked, and their personalities.
The only issue I really had with the novel was the romance aspect. Emma begins the novel in love with a fringe character... suddenly Bennett shows up and she has been in love with him all along. Personally, I did not have an issue with the romance between Emma and Bennett... my issue is just with how the relationship is introduced to the reader. It just transitioned weird for me.
Deception is an amazing start to what I hope will be an outstanding series. Nichols writing and her characters have me completely smitten with this novel and I cannot wait to see what happens next.
Nichols deserves high praise for Deception for a number of reasons. First of all, she includes translations with her usages of foreign language. Now this may not seem like a big deal to many of you, but for me, this alone put Deception in my good graces. I love, love, love when author's include either translations or some other type of clues that allow the reader to easily follow along with whatever may be occurring. Nichols not only includes the translations, but she makes the language usage have a connection with the plot itself, so in a way she gets double brownie points from me.
Deception, additionally, blew me away with its characters and plot. I loved that nothing felt rushed about the novel. Every aspect is given plenty of time to develop and blend with the other elements giving the novel a very complete feeling. By the end of the novel, I felt like I knew these characters... how they thought, the way their minds worked, and their personalities.
The only issue I really had with the novel was the romance aspect. Emma begins the novel in love with a fringe character... suddenly Bennett shows up and she has been in love with him all along. Personally, I did not have an issue with the romance between Emma and Bennett... my issue is just with how the relationship is introduced to the reader. It just transitioned weird for me.
Deception is an amazing start to what I hope will be an outstanding series. Nichols writing and her characters have me completely smitten with this novel and I cannot wait to see what happens next.
March 9, 2011
REVIEW
Deception is a story of survival. Emma finds herself abandoned. Her parents never return from a business trip, her best friend ignores her, Social Services are called, and she is shipped off to New England to live with a guardian. I loved how the suspense grew as Emma navigated through these events.
Deception is also a story of love. Emma’s guardian is a hot guy named Bennett. There is an attraction between these two, but they struggle with those emotions. Should Emma pursue romance with her guardian or not? They are both realistic teens, yet they also have an air of mystery to them. I found their relationship fascinating.
Deception is a ghost story. Emma learns that she is a ghost keeper with amazing powers. Lee Nichols introduces all sorts of ghosts. Some are funny and friendly while others are spooky and evil. I enjoyed the humorous scenes that Emma had with some of the ghosts and I found myself on the edge of my seat for the fight scenes with the mean ghosts.
Finally, Deception is a mystery. The plot took me on an adventure as the history behind Emma’s powers is explored. I also wondered what all of her visions meant. There is so much to learn and I liked how little pieces of the story were slowly revealed.
I really enjoyed Deception. It is well written with a plot that does not quit. The sequel, Betrayal, releases in March, 2011. It is firmly on my wish list.
RATING
5 Plot
4 Characters
5 Attention Grabbing
5 Girlie Meter
4 Ending
23 TOTAL
5 STARS
Deception is a story of survival. Emma finds herself abandoned. Her parents never return from a business trip, her best friend ignores her, Social Services are called, and she is shipped off to New England to live with a guardian. I loved how the suspense grew as Emma navigated through these events.
Deception is also a story of love. Emma’s guardian is a hot guy named Bennett. There is an attraction between these two, but they struggle with those emotions. Should Emma pursue romance with her guardian or not? They are both realistic teens, yet they also have an air of mystery to them. I found their relationship fascinating.
Deception is a ghost story. Emma learns that she is a ghost keeper with amazing powers. Lee Nichols introduces all sorts of ghosts. Some are funny and friendly while others are spooky and evil. I enjoyed the humorous scenes that Emma had with some of the ghosts and I found myself on the edge of my seat for the fight scenes with the mean ghosts.
Finally, Deception is a mystery. The plot took me on an adventure as the history behind Emma’s powers is explored. I also wondered what all of her visions meant. There is so much to learn and I liked how little pieces of the story were slowly revealed.
I really enjoyed Deception. It is well written with a plot that does not quit. The sequel, Betrayal, releases in March, 2011. It is firmly on my wish list.
RATING
5 Plot
4 Characters
5 Attention Grabbing
5 Girlie Meter
4 Ending
23 TOTAL
5 STARS
October 1, 2016
Deception is a real page turner. I managed to read it in just a few hours. The characters were interesting and well developed. I found protagonist Emma easy to connect with. After spending most of her life feeling like second best she finds herself abandoned by everyone she thought cared. I really felt for her, and could imagine the pain she was feeling.
Deception contained an interesting ghost story that kept me reading late into the night. It also has a romance that promises to invoke warm fuzzies, as well as a little love triangle for those that dig that type of thing. I’m a fan of warm fuzzies and love triangles so that was a definite win-win for me. I didn’t find anything about this story predictable. The conclusion was a real shocker, and left my heart feeling a wee bit bruised. It all ended with what I’d consider a cliffhanger as well as several unanswered questions. Frustrating for me yes, but also a guarantee I’ll read the next book. Deception is a promising start to a new young adult trilogy.
If you like ghost stories and the paranormal check this one out. Deception does contain some adult language, and sexual predicaments. You may want to keep that in mind when recommending it to the younger teens and tweens.
Deception contained an interesting ghost story that kept me reading late into the night. It also has a romance that promises to invoke warm fuzzies, as well as a little love triangle for those that dig that type of thing. I’m a fan of warm fuzzies and love triangles so that was a definite win-win for me. I didn’t find anything about this story predictable. The conclusion was a real shocker, and left my heart feeling a wee bit bruised. It all ended with what I’d consider a cliffhanger as well as several unanswered questions. Frustrating for me yes, but also a guarantee I’ll read the next book. Deception is a promising start to a new young adult trilogy.
If you like ghost stories and the paranormal check this one out. Deception does contain some adult language, and sexual predicaments. You may want to keep that in mind when recommending it to the younger teens and tweens.
March 19, 2012
Brace yourselves. I was off work for the entire month of July and I read 30 books. Yes, 30. I thank the swimming lessons that I signed my son up for because he was so worn out after them that he took very long naps. It's becoming clear to me that I need to start jotting down my thoughts about books as I read them so that I don't read 30 in a month without doing one review and then must try and think back 30 days and 30 books ago. However, I will do my best. Without further ado, July Book #1: High schooler Emma has been concealing the fact that her parents have disappeared and she is living on her own until her cover is blown and she is made to live with a guardian. ...A guardian who happens to be her older brother's "hott" friend: cue budding and slightly illicit romance. While under his care, Emma discovers that she is a ghostkeeper and can see, communicate with, and compel ghosts. She is also being pursued by an evil ghost/spirit and must battle it out for her life. Much is left unsaid and it is clear this is to be a series of some sort.
October 8, 2011
I enjoyed this. There are so many YA books that take place in a private school setting and it can get redundant so I was happy that I enjoyed this. Emma is very likable and funny. In this world, people whom have some powers have just one power. Not Emma. She is a forced to be reckoned with. Romance fans will like the romance between Emma and Bennett. Hooked me from the beginning and was a nice read. I recommend this.
Liked: The plot
Disliked: Not too much mystery
Favorite Character: Emma
Least Favorite Character: Natalie
Liked: The plot
Disliked: Not too much mystery
Favorite Character: Emma
Least Favorite Character: Natalie
June 2, 2018
This was a pleasant, supernatural-ish young adult novel. Not an amazing book by any means, but it had a couple of good characters, a couple of good scenarios and a very decent world building concept going for it.
Emma has visions and sees ghosts - that is kind of a spoiler as ghosts don't feature until you are somewhat into the book, but not really a spoiler, as the reader is aware of it long before Emma is.
While I did enjoy reading it and the descriptions are fun, I can't quite rate it as three stars because there is a lot on inconsistency, unexplained, illogical and random stuff happening that make the reader stop and wtf, way too often.
Emma's parents heading off mysteriously, her AWOL brother, her vanished-for-no-reason best friend. All of these are important plot elements that are just not really well handled in my opinion. These were basic cornerstones of the whole plot, but were just handed to us without explanation or reason.
Going off with Bennett, brand new school, empty house a seventeen year old just has to cope with on her own.... All these things are not especially rational, and they are never rationalised. The reader just has to shrug them off, accept or stop reading.
Bennett not realising Emma does not know about ghosts is about as realistic as the tax office deciding to spare me income tax this year; it was contrived, unbelievable, idiotic. As a reader it was kind of insulting. Emma and Bennett talking around each other in circles, never admitting to themselves that they may have to share information. No, that did nothing for me either.
Despite the things I did not like it was not a bad book, just a tad bit clumsy. I probably would not go to the effort of reading the next one. There was a teaser at the end of this book that did nothing for me. However, I probably would try more by the author, there is some good writing, concepts and world-building happening in that head.
Emma has visions and sees ghosts - that is kind of a spoiler as ghosts don't feature until you are somewhat into the book, but not really a spoiler, as the reader is aware of it long before Emma is.
While I did enjoy reading it and the descriptions are fun, I can't quite rate it as three stars because there is a lot on inconsistency, unexplained, illogical and random stuff happening that make the reader stop and wtf, way too often.
Emma's parents heading off mysteriously, her AWOL brother, her vanished-for-no-reason best friend. All of these are important plot elements that are just not really well handled in my opinion. These were basic cornerstones of the whole plot, but were just handed to us without explanation or reason.
Going off with Bennett, brand new school, empty house a seventeen year old just has to cope with on her own.... All these things are not especially rational, and they are never rationalised. The reader just has to shrug them off, accept or stop reading.
Bennett not realising Emma does not know about ghosts is about as realistic as the tax office deciding to spare me income tax this year; it was contrived, unbelievable, idiotic. As a reader it was kind of insulting. Emma and Bennett talking around each other in circles, never admitting to themselves that they may have to share information. No, that did nothing for me either.
Despite the things I did not like it was not a bad book, just a tad bit clumsy. I probably would not go to the effort of reading the next one. There was a teaser at the end of this book that did nothing for me. However, I probably would try more by the author, there is some good writing, concepts and world-building happening in that head.
June 17, 2010
Quick & Dirty: A completely compelling and suspenseful read.
Opening Sentence: Six weeks ago, my parents disappeared.
The Review:
Emma Vaile plans to live it up and break all the rules while her parents are gone on a business trip, but naturally things take a turn for the worse. Emma’s appointed guardian leaves her all alone to be closer to her own daughter. Now, Emma is stuck with running her parents store, as well as maintaining her school duties. To make matters worse, Emma’s best friend is no longer speaking to her and she doesn’t understand why. Alone and feeling isolated, Emma turns to her new friends. Wanting to be accepted into the group, Emma agrees to throw a party at her house. The party comes to an abrupt end when the police arrive. One of Emma’s so called friend’s reports her to Child Protective Services. Betrayed, Emma finds herself facing some pretty bleak options. Become a ward of the state or enter the foster care system. Luckily, Emma is saved in the nick of time by Bennett, her brother’s friend. He takes Emma to New England and enrolls her at Thatcher Academy.
Deception is set in a rich, imaginative world that blends mystery, suspense, and romance. Emma is funny, strong and driven. She went from being immature to accepting major responsibilities head on. Some of the scenes are a touch melodramatic, but Emma is a very sympathetic character. Emma is lonely and worried about her family. She’s essentially been abandoned. Emma can’t seem to get a hold of them and she’s battling danger at every turn. Emma discovers that she has powerful abilities, and battling evil ghosts is just the beginning. She’s a Ghostkeeper, which means that she can communicate with ghosts. I’m definitely intrigued by the Ghostkeeper mythology.
I’m not really sure how I feel about Bennett. I never established a connection with him and he didn’t come off as a particularly likable character. He’s a bit too mysterious, suspicious, and I’m not sure what his real motivations are.
Overall, Deception is a great gothic ghost story. Deception has plenty of twists and a number of intriguing events. Strongly drawn characters and plenty of conflict help draw the reader deep into this genuinely spooky tale. The result is a wonderfully creepy, well-written story. Readers will eagerly await Betrayal, which is the next book in the series.
Notable Scene:
I smelled and felt the cold salt wind as it rose from the ocean and heard the waves rippling against the rocks below. The soft glow of the house fell into the darkness over the cliffs, as a thread of spectral fog thickened in the air and crept toward us.
As we watched, the fog morphed into a shape that looked nothing like other ghosts I’d seen. It had a skeletal, malformed body and wore tattered clothing. Except that it wasn’t clothing. It was skin. Its bones were joined in the wrong places somehow, making it look more insect than human.
FTC Advisory: Bloomsbury provided me with an ARC of Deception. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,� or bribes were exchanged for my review. In addition, I don’t receive affiliate fees for anything purchased via links from my site.
Opening Sentence: Six weeks ago, my parents disappeared.
The Review:
Emma Vaile plans to live it up and break all the rules while her parents are gone on a business trip, but naturally things take a turn for the worse. Emma’s appointed guardian leaves her all alone to be closer to her own daughter. Now, Emma is stuck with running her parents store, as well as maintaining her school duties. To make matters worse, Emma’s best friend is no longer speaking to her and she doesn’t understand why. Alone and feeling isolated, Emma turns to her new friends. Wanting to be accepted into the group, Emma agrees to throw a party at her house. The party comes to an abrupt end when the police arrive. One of Emma’s so called friend’s reports her to Child Protective Services. Betrayed, Emma finds herself facing some pretty bleak options. Become a ward of the state or enter the foster care system. Luckily, Emma is saved in the nick of time by Bennett, her brother’s friend. He takes Emma to New England and enrolls her at Thatcher Academy.
Deception is set in a rich, imaginative world that blends mystery, suspense, and romance. Emma is funny, strong and driven. She went from being immature to accepting major responsibilities head on. Some of the scenes are a touch melodramatic, but Emma is a very sympathetic character. Emma is lonely and worried about her family. She’s essentially been abandoned. Emma can’t seem to get a hold of them and she’s battling danger at every turn. Emma discovers that she has powerful abilities, and battling evil ghosts is just the beginning. She’s a Ghostkeeper, which means that she can communicate with ghosts. I’m definitely intrigued by the Ghostkeeper mythology.
I’m not really sure how I feel about Bennett. I never established a connection with him and he didn’t come off as a particularly likable character. He’s a bit too mysterious, suspicious, and I’m not sure what his real motivations are.
Overall, Deception is a great gothic ghost story. Deception has plenty of twists and a number of intriguing events. Strongly drawn characters and plenty of conflict help draw the reader deep into this genuinely spooky tale. The result is a wonderfully creepy, well-written story. Readers will eagerly await Betrayal, which is the next book in the series.
Notable Scene:
I smelled and felt the cold salt wind as it rose from the ocean and heard the waves rippling against the rocks below. The soft glow of the house fell into the darkness over the cliffs, as a thread of spectral fog thickened in the air and crept toward us.
As we watched, the fog morphed into a shape that looked nothing like other ghosts I’d seen. It had a skeletal, malformed body and wore tattered clothing. Except that it wasn’t clothing. It was skin. Its bones were joined in the wrong places somehow, making it look more insect than human.
FTC Advisory: Bloomsbury provided me with an ARC of Deception. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,� or bribes were exchanged for my review. In addition, I don’t receive affiliate fees for anything purchased via links from my site.
June 28, 2011
Reviewed for MM's by Sophie-
A few days ago, I was in one of those moods, where I was re-ordering the TBR pile on my nightstand (okay, and around it as well) and I picked up Lee Nichols� DECEPTION. I remembered that a few of my friends, who are never wrong, recommended it to me and I thought hey, I might as well read it.
HA. Might as well read it? Let’s just say that I read it in a day, mostly thanks to my 5-year-old daughter who woke me up at 2:30 a.m. to tell me that there are ghosts in her room. I immediately thought � where’s Bennett? So wide awake at that early hour, I picked up my half-finished book and didn’t stop reading it until I was done. I then promptly pulled up the Barnes & Noble app on my phone and reserved the sequel, BETRAYAL, at my local store. Listen, don’t judge me. It’s that good. Here’s why.
The story really starts when Emma gets whisked away to an exclusive private school by her preppy and not-that-much-older guardian, Bennett. Plausible? Perhaps. But here’s where Lee’s writing takes off. You see, it’s the lore. Lee’s world-building is so believable. The fact that Emma sees ghosts is something I completely bought into (no wonder my kid is having nightmares, right?). And placing the school in Massachusetts which has a history of witchcraft made the world even more concrete. Now imagine people with special powers who can communicate or command ghosts. See? You’re there with me. And all I can tell you is that Lee’s world gets richer and more detailed with every page as you discover, through Emma’s eyes, what it truly means to be a ghostkeeper.
In just about every review, I get asked, but what about romance (I really do pay attention to the comments section in my reviews)? And boy oh boy, does Lee know how to write romance (a certain dance on page 90 made my heart lose its rhythm for a few seconds). In fact, she brings a plausible Love Triangle into the story. On the one hand there’s Bennett, Emma’s older brother’s ghostkeeper friend. He’s someone she’s known for a while but he tends to ignore her and treat her like a younger sister. On the other hand, there’s Coby, the perfect boy on campus. But is he too perfect? All along, you can’t help feeling that this is only the start and things are going to get way more complicated. And without any spoilers, I can safely tell you, there will be surprises. A quick aside to say if you adore snarky dialogue and banter, you will laugh your way through Emma’s and her friends� exchanges. Their dialogues in Latin left me smirking.
Don’t let this book sit on your TBR pile, MMs, pick it up now. You will find yourself enjoying Lee’s funny, helpful, troublesome and yes, menacing ghosts. You will be surprised by the turns in the plot and you will be absolutely delighted by the romantic moments. It’s a witty, dark and well thought out story. Now excuse me, I’m half way through BETRAYAL and I need to know what happens next. I have a feeling that, once again, I’ll be reading late into the night.
A few days ago, I was in one of those moods, where I was re-ordering the TBR pile on my nightstand (okay, and around it as well) and I picked up Lee Nichols� DECEPTION. I remembered that a few of my friends, who are never wrong, recommended it to me and I thought hey, I might as well read it.
HA. Might as well read it? Let’s just say that I read it in a day, mostly thanks to my 5-year-old daughter who woke me up at 2:30 a.m. to tell me that there are ghosts in her room. I immediately thought � where’s Bennett? So wide awake at that early hour, I picked up my half-finished book and didn’t stop reading it until I was done. I then promptly pulled up the Barnes & Noble app on my phone and reserved the sequel, BETRAYAL, at my local store. Listen, don’t judge me. It’s that good. Here’s why.
The story really starts when Emma gets whisked away to an exclusive private school by her preppy and not-that-much-older guardian, Bennett. Plausible? Perhaps. But here’s where Lee’s writing takes off. You see, it’s the lore. Lee’s world-building is so believable. The fact that Emma sees ghosts is something I completely bought into (no wonder my kid is having nightmares, right?). And placing the school in Massachusetts which has a history of witchcraft made the world even more concrete. Now imagine people with special powers who can communicate or command ghosts. See? You’re there with me. And all I can tell you is that Lee’s world gets richer and more detailed with every page as you discover, through Emma’s eyes, what it truly means to be a ghostkeeper.
In just about every review, I get asked, but what about romance (I really do pay attention to the comments section in my reviews)? And boy oh boy, does Lee know how to write romance (a certain dance on page 90 made my heart lose its rhythm for a few seconds). In fact, she brings a plausible Love Triangle into the story. On the one hand there’s Bennett, Emma’s older brother’s ghostkeeper friend. He’s someone she’s known for a while but he tends to ignore her and treat her like a younger sister. On the other hand, there’s Coby, the perfect boy on campus. But is he too perfect? All along, you can’t help feeling that this is only the start and things are going to get way more complicated. And without any spoilers, I can safely tell you, there will be surprises. A quick aside to say if you adore snarky dialogue and banter, you will laugh your way through Emma’s and her friends� exchanges. Their dialogues in Latin left me smirking.
Don’t let this book sit on your TBR pile, MMs, pick it up now. You will find yourself enjoying Lee’s funny, helpful, troublesome and yes, menacing ghosts. You will be surprised by the turns in the plot and you will be absolutely delighted by the romantic moments. It’s a witty, dark and well thought out story. Now excuse me, I’m half way through BETRAYAL and I need to know what happens next. I have a feeling that, once again, I’ll be reading late into the night.
August 12, 2010
I must say that I was shocked by how much I enjoyed this book. The book starts with Emma who is living life alone after her parents leave for a business trip. At first she is thrilled to have this opportunity to have fun and enjoy the silence but after a while Emma begins to get worried that they may not be coming back. Then once she begins having visions, she wonders if she is completely losing her mind.
Soon social services is notified that Emma is alone and she realizes she may be in for a rough few months, until her hero (and brothers ex-best friend) Bennett arrives just in time to save the day. Now her life turns upside down as they travel to New England to stay in Bennett's museum of a home, where more mystery awaits her arrival.
Thatcher, her new private school, seem to evoke more visions for Emma that she can't understand. Bennett is preoccupied, and all Emma wants is to find out what is wrong with her and why her family seems to have completely disappeared.
Deception had me completely entranced. The plot, the writing, the characters were absolutely spellbinding! As the story continues, each little piece slowly comes together. I immediately loved the story and found the mystery fascinating. The relationship Emma has with Bennett *swoon* is sweet, new, and lovely, even though they seem to butt heads often. Eventually Bennett lets Emma in on the big secret, that they are ghostkeepers. Although this explains a lot for Emma, more questions remain. But according to Bennett he is there to protect her.
Characters: Emma is strong, fascinating, and determined to discover the truth. She is confused by what is going on in her life and is forced to deal with many of her emotions alone. Bennett is cute and sweet but keeps his distance. He is protective and has his own hidden battles. Some of my favorite parts of this book involved the other characters Emma comes across. The people from school, Coby, Harry (hilarious), and Sara. Plus the wonderful "surprise" friends Emma has in the mansion.They bring a lot of humorous situations!
Cover: The cover is cute. That is how I would picture Emma, and even the mansion. Plus the foggy look has significance to the story. But at the same time, I feel this cover isn't good enough for how the story really is. It made me think it was maybe a little younger and not as complex as the story comes across. For me, the story was much better than the cover suggests.
I highly recommend this book. It is a wonderful story full of mystery, secrets, love, friendship, and intriguing characters. I was thrilled to see this is a trilogy. Once you start the journey with Emma in this book, you won't be able to pass up reading book 2!
Soon social services is notified that Emma is alone and she realizes she may be in for a rough few months, until her hero (and brothers ex-best friend) Bennett arrives just in time to save the day. Now her life turns upside down as they travel to New England to stay in Bennett's museum of a home, where more mystery awaits her arrival.
Thatcher, her new private school, seem to evoke more visions for Emma that she can't understand. Bennett is preoccupied, and all Emma wants is to find out what is wrong with her and why her family seems to have completely disappeared.
Deception had me completely entranced. The plot, the writing, the characters were absolutely spellbinding! As the story continues, each little piece slowly comes together. I immediately loved the story and found the mystery fascinating. The relationship Emma has with Bennett *swoon* is sweet, new, and lovely, even though they seem to butt heads often. Eventually Bennett lets Emma in on the big secret, that they are ghostkeepers. Although this explains a lot for Emma, more questions remain. But according to Bennett he is there to protect her.
Characters: Emma is strong, fascinating, and determined to discover the truth. She is confused by what is going on in her life and is forced to deal with many of her emotions alone. Bennett is cute and sweet but keeps his distance. He is protective and has his own hidden battles. Some of my favorite parts of this book involved the other characters Emma comes across. The people from school, Coby, Harry (hilarious), and Sara. Plus the wonderful "surprise" friends Emma has in the mansion.They bring a lot of humorous situations!
Cover: The cover is cute. That is how I would picture Emma, and even the mansion. Plus the foggy look has significance to the story. But at the same time, I feel this cover isn't good enough for how the story really is. It made me think it was maybe a little younger and not as complex as the story comes across. For me, the story was much better than the cover suggests.
I highly recommend this book. It is a wonderful story full of mystery, secrets, love, friendship, and intriguing characters. I was thrilled to see this is a trilogy. Once you start the journey with Emma in this book, you won't be able to pass up reading book 2!
June 4, 2010
Deception has reminded me that it has been entirely too long since I’ve read a good ghostly mystery. When I picked up the novel I thought it looked good, but I wasn’t prepared for how much I would end up enjoying it! I found myself furiously flipping pages and, when I found myself on the last page, lamenting my wait until the next installment.
At first, I wasn’t sure how well I was going to like the author’s treatment of the dialogue. It seemed almost inconsistent: casual one moment and formal the next. Eventually, I either stopped noticing or started to like it, I’m not sure which. As I read, it started to flow very realistically and it was easy to imagine that Emma was sitting next to me narrating the story.
I really enjoyed Nichols� portrayal of ghosts and Emma’s powers. I’m impressed that each YA ghost novel that I’ve read brings something new to the table. It seems almost easy to differentiate paranormal creatures like vampires and weres, but ghosts require a bit more creativity. Now that the scene has been set, I’m excited to discover what Emma will face in the next book and to see a greater exploration of her powers.
I have mixed feelings about Deception’s romantic plot line. At the beginning of the novel, Emma was extremely immature, which had me worried. I thought that her relationship with Bennett would turn out to be only a school girl crush on her older brother’s friend. Thankfully, Emma morphed throughout the novel. By the end, I could definitely see how a relationship between the two could develop. Nichols throws readers for a bit of a loop at the end of the novel, so I’m desperate to see how Emma and Bennett will find a way around the complication presented.
And holy cliffhanger! I raced to that last page, only to find a cliffhanger of epic proportions! I adore cliffhangers.
Grade: A-
Cover Notes:
I’d pick it up based on the cover. The house in the background is a bit awkward - it’s almost too bright � but I like that the focus on the girl’s face and the wispy smoke.
At first, I wasn’t sure how well I was going to like the author’s treatment of the dialogue. It seemed almost inconsistent: casual one moment and formal the next. Eventually, I either stopped noticing or started to like it, I’m not sure which. As I read, it started to flow very realistically and it was easy to imagine that Emma was sitting next to me narrating the story.
I really enjoyed Nichols� portrayal of ghosts and Emma’s powers. I’m impressed that each YA ghost novel that I’ve read brings something new to the table. It seems almost easy to differentiate paranormal creatures like vampires and weres, but ghosts require a bit more creativity. Now that the scene has been set, I’m excited to discover what Emma will face in the next book and to see a greater exploration of her powers.
I have mixed feelings about Deception’s romantic plot line. At the beginning of the novel, Emma was extremely immature, which had me worried. I thought that her relationship with Bennett would turn out to be only a school girl crush on her older brother’s friend. Thankfully, Emma morphed throughout the novel. By the end, I could definitely see how a relationship between the two could develop. Nichols throws readers for a bit of a loop at the end of the novel, so I’m desperate to see how Emma and Bennett will find a way around the complication presented.
And holy cliffhanger! I raced to that last page, only to find a cliffhanger of epic proportions! I adore cliffhangers.
Grade: A-
Cover Notes:
I’d pick it up based on the cover. The house in the background is a bit awkward - it’s almost too bright � but I like that the focus on the girl’s face and the wispy smoke.
May 11, 2010
I have to admit that there's going to be nothing but love for this one in my review, because quite honestly this novel was nearly a prefect combination of mystery, suspense, and romance, along with some very awesome ghost keeper skills.
Emma is a someone I'm sure that nearly anyone can see a bit of themselves in. Since she's still dealing with the backlash of an ended friendship (Who hasn't been there?), she's crushing on someone who she shouldn't (or there?), and sometimes she feels that she truly doesn't know whom she wants to be when it comes to nearly everything (or there as well?). Oh, and yeah, she's see thinks she just might be going crazy. Plus she's sweet, funny, and down to earth, which left her to be one main character that I had no trouble relating to or reading their story. Also her relationships with Bennett (*swoon*) and Colby to her frenemy status with Natalie always hit a true point of reality with me.
The beginning of this, I have to say, was a bit slow, but soon after that Deception become one novel that become nothing short of addicting and tension ridden. The constant twists to the plot always left my mind filled with questions ranging from 'What happened to Emma's parents and brother?' to 'Would Emma and Bennet ever be together?' to 'Was Emma really crazy or did she have something extraordinary going for her?' among others; leaving this to be one novel I raced to finish in one sitting. Plus Nichols' writing was readable and always made me, as the reader, feel like I was right there with Emma and Bennet the whole time.
In all there's not much else to say besides that Deception is one book that is must-read for this upcoming summer and the Haunting Emma series, as well as Lee Nichols, are ones to watch.
Grade: A-
Emma is a someone I'm sure that nearly anyone can see a bit of themselves in. Since she's still dealing with the backlash of an ended friendship (Who hasn't been there?), she's crushing on someone who she shouldn't (or there?), and sometimes she feels that she truly doesn't know whom she wants to be when it comes to nearly everything (or there as well?). Oh, and yeah, she's see thinks she just might be going crazy. Plus she's sweet, funny, and down to earth, which left her to be one main character that I had no trouble relating to or reading their story. Also her relationships with Bennett (*swoon*) and Colby to her frenemy status with Natalie always hit a true point of reality with me.
The beginning of this, I have to say, was a bit slow, but soon after that Deception become one novel that become nothing short of addicting and tension ridden. The constant twists to the plot always left my mind filled with questions ranging from 'What happened to Emma's parents and brother?' to 'Would Emma and Bennet ever be together?' to 'Was Emma really crazy or did she have something extraordinary going for her?' among others; leaving this to be one novel I raced to finish in one sitting. Plus Nichols' writing was readable and always made me, as the reader, feel like I was right there with Emma and Bennet the whole time.
In all there's not much else to say besides that Deception is one book that is must-read for this upcoming summer and the Haunting Emma series, as well as Lee Nichols, are ones to watch.
Grade: A-
February 2, 2011
At first, I didn't want to read this book because the cover seemed very Middle Grade-ish. Yeah, this is one of those occasions where I wish I had not judged the cover. I was hooked by page one. The story is short but to the point. No filler. Every page had something that had my mind trying to work out the mysteries and romance.
Emma is left home alone by her parents but they seem to have gone missing. Girl is on her own until Bennett comes to the rescue. Bennett used to be a friend of Emma's brother and to save Emma from being put in foster care, she goes to live with him. She now has to travel across the country, start a new school and live in a creepy mansion/ museum. And Bennett? Yeah, he's busy so he won't be around much which kind of sucks since Emma has had a crush on him for a very long time. I can't blame her though cause I'm definitely a Bennett fan even though sometimes I can't tell if he can be trusted.
While she tries to settle in, everything starts to become familiar in a strange way. She starts having these visions and seeing people that can't possibly be there. And what she learns makes her wary of every ones motives and she also fears for her life. The ending left me with some loose threads that I am dying to read more of.
This haunting tale is full of mystery, romance and is a MUST read. I don't have a single bad thing to say about this book. There were tons of twists and turns that caught me completely off gaurd. The characters felt genuine and were well developed. This book is available now and I can't wait for more of Emma and Bennett in the next book; Betrayals which comes out March 1st, 2011.
Find this review and more at
Emma is left home alone by her parents but they seem to have gone missing. Girl is on her own until Bennett comes to the rescue. Bennett used to be a friend of Emma's brother and to save Emma from being put in foster care, she goes to live with him. She now has to travel across the country, start a new school and live in a creepy mansion/ museum. And Bennett? Yeah, he's busy so he won't be around much which kind of sucks since Emma has had a crush on him for a very long time. I can't blame her though cause I'm definitely a Bennett fan even though sometimes I can't tell if he can be trusted.
While she tries to settle in, everything starts to become familiar in a strange way. She starts having these visions and seeing people that can't possibly be there. And what she learns makes her wary of every ones motives and she also fears for her life. The ending left me with some loose threads that I am dying to read more of.
This haunting tale is full of mystery, romance and is a MUST read. I don't have a single bad thing to say about this book. There were tons of twists and turns that caught me completely off gaurd. The characters felt genuine and were well developed. This book is available now and I can't wait for more of Emma and Bennett in the next book; Betrayals which comes out March 1st, 2011.
Find this review and more at
September 5, 2016
Emma saw ‘imaginary people� from the time she was very young � until one day one of them tastes her blood � and she’s sent off to the mental hospital by her parents. Years later, her antiquities dealer parents go on a business trip, disappear, and she is left alone not knowing who to turn to anymore.
Bennett Stern shows up with guardianship paperwork after Emma is picked up by Child Protective Services. She goes off to Massachusetts with Bennett and comes to realize that all of the imaginary people she saw as a child were ghosts and learns she is a powerful ghostkeeper.
Her visions of the past and her ghostkeeper powers grow exponentially while she is staying at the Stern mansion. She’s finally starting to understand who she is, but she’s got so much to learn and not much time as there is something evil stalking her and those she loves.
I loved this story and I can’t wait for the next book! Haven’t you wished you were special? That you could do something that almost no one else can? For the longest time Emma thought she was crazy, but it turns out she is special � a ghostkeeper. No ordinary ghostkeeper, either, but the direct descendant of one of the most powerful ghostkeepers ever.
Emma’s a great character and I enjoyed being in her world. I instantly related to her character, rooted for her, and felt for her. Her new friends are a very interesting group and I hope to learn more about them in future books. I think the characterization was well developed and I loved the ghostkeeper mythos. This is a suspenseful and action-filled tale told in a way that draws you in quickly and leaves you wanting more. I look forward to reading much more from Lee Nichols in the future.
Bennett Stern shows up with guardianship paperwork after Emma is picked up by Child Protective Services. She goes off to Massachusetts with Bennett and comes to realize that all of the imaginary people she saw as a child were ghosts and learns she is a powerful ghostkeeper.
Her visions of the past and her ghostkeeper powers grow exponentially while she is staying at the Stern mansion. She’s finally starting to understand who she is, but she’s got so much to learn and not much time as there is something evil stalking her and those she loves.
I loved this story and I can’t wait for the next book! Haven’t you wished you were special? That you could do something that almost no one else can? For the longest time Emma thought she was crazy, but it turns out she is special � a ghostkeeper. No ordinary ghostkeeper, either, but the direct descendant of one of the most powerful ghostkeepers ever.
Emma’s a great character and I enjoyed being in her world. I instantly related to her character, rooted for her, and felt for her. Her new friends are a very interesting group and I hope to learn more about them in future books. I think the characterization was well developed and I loved the ghostkeeper mythos. This is a suspenseful and action-filled tale told in a way that draws you in quickly and leaves you wanting more. I look forward to reading much more from Lee Nichols in the future.
June 19, 2010
Rating: 4.5/5 Stars
Ghosts, romance, mystery, a Gothic feel, a mysterious private school, secrets-this book has everything a reader wants in a paranormal mystery. When I received my copy for review there was a note that said set time aside to read this one in one sitting-and it was right. Once I started reading Deception, I didn't want to stop!
Emma is a strong character and I loved her voice. She just felt so normal-even when she discovers her supernatural powers, she never stops being a normal teen. She has a crush on Bennett, but she never gets overly whiny or obnoxious about it. She might not be the most popular girl, but her worries about school and her friends don't consume the book. She has no clue about her powers or why she's seeing ghosts, so the reader discovers things along with Emma, which I liked. I also liked how there's romance, but that's not the main focus of the book.
Deception is a ghost story with a Gothic feel to it. The pacing is perfect and the mystery unravels slowly, but there's still enough to hold the reader's interest and keep them intrigued. It is a start to a series, and while some things are wrapped up, I still have lots of questions. And the ending has such a surprise that I want the next book now! The mystery genre in young adult sometimes feel lacking, so I'm glad to have a new ghostly mystery to give my mystery readers at the library. There's a little bit of everything in this book, so it's sure to please fans of paranormal, romance and mystery. An engaging start to a new series, I can't wait to return to Emma's story!
Ghosts, romance, mystery, a Gothic feel, a mysterious private school, secrets-this book has everything a reader wants in a paranormal mystery. When I received my copy for review there was a note that said set time aside to read this one in one sitting-and it was right. Once I started reading Deception, I didn't want to stop!
Emma is a strong character and I loved her voice. She just felt so normal-even when she discovers her supernatural powers, she never stops being a normal teen. She has a crush on Bennett, but she never gets overly whiny or obnoxious about it. She might not be the most popular girl, but her worries about school and her friends don't consume the book. She has no clue about her powers or why she's seeing ghosts, so the reader discovers things along with Emma, which I liked. I also liked how there's romance, but that's not the main focus of the book.
Deception is a ghost story with a Gothic feel to it. The pacing is perfect and the mystery unravels slowly, but there's still enough to hold the reader's interest and keep them intrigued. It is a start to a series, and while some things are wrapped up, I still have lots of questions. And the ending has such a surprise that I want the next book now! The mystery genre in young adult sometimes feel lacking, so I'm glad to have a new ghostly mystery to give my mystery readers at the library. There's a little bit of everything in this book, so it's sure to please fans of paranormal, romance and mystery. An engaging start to a new series, I can't wait to return to Emma's story!
July 16, 2010
4.5 stars
The Quick and the Dirty...A fast-paced, enthralling, gothic ghost story with awesome characters.
Why I was tempted to read this...I had read a few glowing reviews on it and immediately added it to my wish list.
Cover thoughts...It's pretty spooky and gothic, I like it!
Romance Meter...the romance was suspenseful because you just didn't know who to trust and who was telling the truth. I would give it a 4 out of 5.
Character and Plot...Emma was a completely likable character that handles a lot of responsibility and drama. She takes up the reins when her parents leave her unexpectedly, the adult that is supposed to watch her resigns, and she is left to her own devices managing their antique store, unable to get in touch with anyone. When she gets in trouble and Bennett rushes in from nowhere and saves her, she's off to another part of the country with a new school and living in a museum. Her only contact is Bennett and he is often MIA so she does a lot of fact finding on her own when she figures out she is a Ghostkeeper. The characters are engaging and the plot is dynamic and keeps swiftly moving from one thing to another. I inhaled this book and didn't want to put it down.
The Ending...A perfectly executed cliffhanger that will have you eagerly waiting the next book in the trilogy! Who to trust?? Who to trust??
Sequel...yes of course! Word is Betrayal will be out sometime early next year...not sure I can wait!!
The Quick and the Dirty...A fast-paced, enthralling, gothic ghost story with awesome characters.
Why I was tempted to read this...I had read a few glowing reviews on it and immediately added it to my wish list.
Cover thoughts...It's pretty spooky and gothic, I like it!
Romance Meter...the romance was suspenseful because you just didn't know who to trust and who was telling the truth. I would give it a 4 out of 5.
Character and Plot...Emma was a completely likable character that handles a lot of responsibility and drama. She takes up the reins when her parents leave her unexpectedly, the adult that is supposed to watch her resigns, and she is left to her own devices managing their antique store, unable to get in touch with anyone. When she gets in trouble and Bennett rushes in from nowhere and saves her, she's off to another part of the country with a new school and living in a museum. Her only contact is Bennett and he is often MIA so she does a lot of fact finding on her own when she figures out she is a Ghostkeeper. The characters are engaging and the plot is dynamic and keeps swiftly moving from one thing to another. I inhaled this book and didn't want to put it down.
The Ending...A perfectly executed cliffhanger that will have you eagerly waiting the next book in the trilogy! Who to trust?? Who to trust??
Sequel...yes of course! Word is Betrayal will be out sometime early next year...not sure I can wait!!
February 9, 2011
What I really like about this book is the plot. No only was it gripping but really intense. Emma is faced with so many challenges it is unbelievable that she still stands.
Th paranormal was good and one I enjoyed. I like how she was unique in her ability and was able to do many things. This of course lead to more dangerous things since she is the most wanted.
The love interest was very interesting. I enjoyed watching Benette and Emma pawn for each other from far away. And when they finally came together it was nice.
My only gripe was some unnecessary information regarding Emma. I found some things inconceivable. Though the author did make it work.
Th paranormal was good and one I enjoyed. I like how she was unique in her ability and was able to do many things. This of course lead to more dangerous things since she is the most wanted.
The love interest was very interesting. I enjoyed watching Benette and Emma pawn for each other from far away. And when they finally came together it was nice.
My only gripe was some unnecessary information regarding Emma. I found some things inconceivable. Though the author did make it work.
March 12, 2017
Wow! I honestly did not expect to like this book! I thought it was going to be another teen romance with a supernatural twist or whatever, but I was pleasantly surprised with this book.
At first, I got a bit annoyed with the beginning of the book; it was fast paced, and I felt like it wan't really all that intriguing or exciting, but then it got better. Halfway through the book I was really excited about all that was happening, and the whole ghost stuff actually sounded pretty cool and somewhat believable.
In other supernatural books I've read *cough*themortalinstruments*cough* the supernatural world somehow seems to co-exist with the real word even though it's incredibly populated and complicated and there's like seventeen different types of creatures that can like live in the real world somehow without getting caught?? That always baffled me, and really didn't make me believe that it could actually happen. I know it's fiction and blahblahblah but I like to think that my fictitious mythological creatures/people can exist in real life too, y'know?
That's exactly how I felt about these ghostkeepers. Their world (as of right now) doesn't sound incredibly complicated; it builds on the knowledge I have of ghosts, and the fact that there are people who can see ghosts isn't all that crazy and incredibly ridiculous to grasp. I like it.
As for the characters...I really don't know how to feel about Emma. I love her dialogue, but the fact that she obsesses over so many different boys is, well, teenager-like, but also incredibly annoying. First there was Jared (cute popular boy who never really notices her) then there's Bennett (oh so preppy, handsome college boy who's into her) Coby (cute popular football player(quarterback, nonetheless) who's head over heels for her) and Harry (cute, flirtatious boy who is also into her) Like seriously? Can we stop with all these unrealistic and stereotypical handsome, intelligent boys that take interest in what is described to be a regular, dumb and average girl?
Emma is supposed to be sooooo average and boring, but you know, obviously she's not! She's like this extra SPECIAL ghostkeeper who loves to drink red eye chai and is a whiz at math.
Oh, stereotypes, how you make me feel wistful.
I'm not hating on Emma, I'm hating on this stupid stereotype. I actually really liked Emma, she was tolerable and funny. Actually, a lot of the book was funny! I was thoroughly entertained from middle to beginning.
Some of my favourite lines (Few Spoilers):
Then I thought: What am I doing? Apparently squeezing through a long-forgotten door into a dark, empty hallway that a ghost revealed to me.
Yeah. Someone was drugging me so I'd have psychotic flashbacks into dead people's memories and see imaginary people hovering everywhere. Sure, I was so important, there was conspiracy after me. I wished.
"You're a ghostkeeper, Emma."
"Yeah, well, you're a jackass."
"You are normal and real and that's exactly what I need right now."
"Normal and real." He sipped his tea. "A girl with low expectations."
"Syllabub! Of course. I love syllabub." Which, despite the fact that I'd never heard of it before, turned out to be true.
I shot him [the ghost] an evil look - which Coby thought was aimed at him, and appeared wounded. "I hate quizzes." I mouthed.
You ghosts are so sexists. I'll have you know that women fight in armies now and - and that Resident Evil chick kicks ass.
They treated them like second-class citizens, but they were still people, right? I mean, dead people were people, too.
She turned into a cobbled drive, and I was surprised to find a cute little cottage - until I realizes that was just her garage.
Hey! I yelled at it. Yeah, over here, you black death freak show.
It paused and pivoted towards us. Feed, feed. Taste the marrow.
Yeah, I said. I'm talking to you, Bernice.
I turned to Coby. "I'm sorry. Maybe if Bennett catches the Ebola virus, we'll have a real date sometime."
aannd maany more!!
Spoilers!! Read At Your Own Risk
Can't wait to read more!
At first, I got a bit annoyed with the beginning of the book; it was fast paced, and I felt like it wan't really all that intriguing or exciting, but then it got better. Halfway through the book I was really excited about all that was happening, and the whole ghost stuff actually sounded pretty cool and somewhat believable.
In other supernatural books I've read *cough*themortalinstruments*cough* the supernatural world somehow seems to co-exist with the real word even though it's incredibly populated and complicated and there's like seventeen different types of creatures that can like live in the real world somehow without getting caught?? That always baffled me, and really didn't make me believe that it could actually happen. I know it's fiction and blahblahblah but I like to think that my fictitious mythological creatures/people can exist in real life too, y'know?
That's exactly how I felt about these ghostkeepers. Their world (as of right now) doesn't sound incredibly complicated; it builds on the knowledge I have of ghosts, and the fact that there are people who can see ghosts isn't all that crazy and incredibly ridiculous to grasp. I like it.
As for the characters...I really don't know how to feel about Emma. I love her dialogue, but the fact that she obsesses over so many different boys is, well, teenager-like, but also incredibly annoying. First there was Jared (cute popular boy who never really notices her) then there's Bennett (oh so preppy, handsome college boy who's into her) Coby (cute popular football player(quarterback, nonetheless) who's head over heels for her) and Harry (cute, flirtatious boy who is also into her) Like seriously? Can we stop with all these unrealistic and stereotypical handsome, intelligent boys that take interest in what is described to be a regular, dumb and average girl?
Emma is supposed to be sooooo average and boring, but you know, obviously she's not! She's like this extra SPECIAL ghostkeeper who loves to drink red eye chai and is a whiz at math.
Oh, stereotypes, how you make me feel wistful.
I'm not hating on Emma, I'm hating on this stupid stereotype. I actually really liked Emma, she was tolerable and funny. Actually, a lot of the book was funny! I was thoroughly entertained from middle to beginning.
Some of my favourite lines (Few Spoilers):
Then I thought: What am I doing? Apparently squeezing through a long-forgotten door into a dark, empty hallway that a ghost revealed to me.
Yeah. Someone was drugging me so I'd have psychotic flashbacks into dead people's memories and see imaginary people hovering everywhere. Sure, I was so important, there was conspiracy after me. I wished.
"You're a ghostkeeper, Emma."
"Yeah, well, you're a jackass."
"You are normal and real and that's exactly what I need right now."
"Normal and real." He sipped his tea. "A girl with low expectations."
"Syllabub! Of course. I love syllabub." Which, despite the fact that I'd never heard of it before, turned out to be true.
I shot him [the ghost] an evil look - which Coby thought was aimed at him, and appeared wounded. "I hate quizzes." I mouthed.
You ghosts are so sexists. I'll have you know that women fight in armies now and - and that Resident Evil chick kicks ass.
They treated them like second-class citizens, but they were still people, right? I mean, dead people were people, too.
She turned into a cobbled drive, and I was surprised to find a cute little cottage - until I realizes that was just her garage.
Hey! I yelled at it. Yeah, over here, you black death freak show.
It paused and pivoted towards us. Feed, feed. Taste the marrow.
Yeah, I said. I'm talking to you, Bernice.
I turned to Coby. "I'm sorry. Maybe if Bennett catches the Ebola virus, we'll have a real date sometime."
aannd maany more!!
Spoilers!! Read At Your Own Risk
Can't wait to read more!
May 20, 2023
In Deception we meet Emma Vaile whose parents leave on a business trip and seemingly disappear. Her usual temporary housekeeper quits shortly afterwards leaving her on her own. After a party gone wrong her brothers friend and her secret crush. Bennet Stern takes temporary custody of her.After arriving at the Stern home which is also a museum she soon finds out that she is a ghost keeper.The same as Bennet is. She has to juggle this information as well as dealing with flashbacks of the first Emma’s life .Though she does find solace in her new friends and the attention of the most popular boy in school Cody Anders .She comes to love the ghostly staff of the museum Antatole the chef Celeste the maid and Nicholas a young apprentice servant. She also comes to love Martha the teacher of new young ghost keepers. But the afterlife is also dark and soon she must protect her own life and those she loves from a dark creature known as a wraith . While trying to find out how her parents are involved in the Knell. After a slow start this story takes off with both romance and paranormal happenings. A great lightly spooky YA novel which would be perfect for Halloween reading for readers of any age.
November 24, 2010
Emma's family disappears, her best friend drops her and her new friend betrays her. Now she's in Maine with her older brother's former best friend, Bennett, acting as her guardian. Ba-bam! Instant sympathetic heroine whose charming voice makes her easy to love.
Deception shines as a fun paranormal. Emma's feisty personality comes across in her snappy voice that made me laugh.
It's revealed that Emma is a ghostkeeper which means she can see ghosts and has a specific connection with them (and she isn't going crazy!). Usually a ghostkeeper has one power but Emma has a multitude. In short she is one of the most powerful types and has an intriguing connection with a woman from the past.
She makes real friends at school, gets a mother figure who helps train her powers, and also develops friendships with several amusing ghosts.
The paranormal storyline is fresh and interesting - full of humor, adventure and action. Emma's voice is a blast - snappy, snarky - loved it! And I adored the relationships she develops with her human friends, the ghosts, and Martha, the mother figure - really, the secondary characters are among the best I've read. I wanted to invite them all to dinner!
She gets some really cool powers for some action-packed battle scenes toward the end. She's very kick butt!
Romance: Emma has been madly in love with Bennett for years. He's her older brother's former BFF. He's 20 to her 17 years. Okay, maybe he's good-looking but he's rude, arrogant, deceitful and condescending, so I'm not sure why she still has the school girl crush. And while I like Emma, she's a normal fairly immature seventeen-year-old so I'm unclear at to why Bennett has any romantic interest in her.
Not sure if it's the age difference - I know it's not much but technically she's jailbait and... Honestly, I can't put my finger on it. Maybe it's just the fact that Bennett comes off as such a jerk and I think Emma deserves better. Either way, I didn't get the chemistry.
And then you have Coby, who's her age and a sweetheart. Since Emma thinks she "should" like him and Bennett is being such a donkey's behind, she pursues a relationship with Coby - which doesn't bode well for him. I got annoyed with how she treated the boy.
I loved the paranormal aspect of Deception and the friendships - humans and ghost - and while the romance didn't work for me, I'm more interested in the action and paranormal, so I still enjoyed the story immensely.
There's some underage drinking mentioned (which frankly I didn't think was necessary as it did nothing to move the story along) but no one gets drunk. There's talk of others having sex in the past but no sex going on in the story - just some kissing - and very little swearing. I can recommend this to younger teens.
The Ending: Mixed emotions here. The fighting sequence rocks, exciting full of action and brings things full circle. I was disappointed in how the relationships end up. I liked that while it's left open for a sequel there is no major (annoying) cliffhanger AND the nifty twist at the very end was a surprising delight!
Bottom Line: Yes, the romance fell flat for me but... Very good writing, full of humor, laced with a generous dose of mystery and diabolical creepy, combined with fantastic secondary characters in this fast-paced original paranormal starring a spunky, sympathetic heroine who rises to enormous challenges. Phew! That was a long-winded way of saying bring on the sequel!
The Cover: I love the Gothic mansion and the smokey spirits. I would prefer to see less of the girl but as you may know that's a personal quirk of mine. Overall, I think it's good.
Deception shines as a fun paranormal. Emma's feisty personality comes across in her snappy voice that made me laugh.
It's revealed that Emma is a ghostkeeper which means she can see ghosts and has a specific connection with them (and she isn't going crazy!). Usually a ghostkeeper has one power but Emma has a multitude. In short she is one of the most powerful types and has an intriguing connection with a woman from the past.
She makes real friends at school, gets a mother figure who helps train her powers, and also develops friendships with several amusing ghosts.
The paranormal storyline is fresh and interesting - full of humor, adventure and action. Emma's voice is a blast - snappy, snarky - loved it! And I adored the relationships she develops with her human friends, the ghosts, and Martha, the mother figure - really, the secondary characters are among the best I've read. I wanted to invite them all to dinner!
She gets some really cool powers for some action-packed battle scenes toward the end. She's very kick butt!
Romance: Emma has been madly in love with Bennett for years. He's her older brother's former BFF. He's 20 to her 17 years. Okay, maybe he's good-looking but he's rude, arrogant, deceitful and condescending, so I'm not sure why she still has the school girl crush. And while I like Emma, she's a normal fairly immature seventeen-year-old so I'm unclear at to why Bennett has any romantic interest in her.
Not sure if it's the age difference - I know it's not much but technically she's jailbait and... Honestly, I can't put my finger on it. Maybe it's just the fact that Bennett comes off as such a jerk and I think Emma deserves better. Either way, I didn't get the chemistry.
And then you have Coby, who's her age and a sweetheart. Since Emma thinks she "should" like him and Bennett is being such a donkey's behind, she pursues a relationship with Coby - which doesn't bode well for him. I got annoyed with how she treated the boy.
I loved the paranormal aspect of Deception and the friendships - humans and ghost - and while the romance didn't work for me, I'm more interested in the action and paranormal, so I still enjoyed the story immensely.
There's some underage drinking mentioned (which frankly I didn't think was necessary as it did nothing to move the story along) but no one gets drunk. There's talk of others having sex in the past but no sex going on in the story - just some kissing - and very little swearing. I can recommend this to younger teens.
The Ending: Mixed emotions here. The fighting sequence rocks, exciting full of action and brings things full circle. I was disappointed in how the relationships end up. I liked that while it's left open for a sequel there is no major (annoying) cliffhanger AND the nifty twist at the very end was a surprising delight!
Bottom Line: Yes, the romance fell flat for me but... Very good writing, full of humor, laced with a generous dose of mystery and diabolical creepy, combined with fantastic secondary characters in this fast-paced original paranormal starring a spunky, sympathetic heroine who rises to enormous challenges. Phew! That was a long-winded way of saying bring on the sequel!
The Cover: I love the Gothic mansion and the smokey spirits. I would prefer to see less of the girl but as you may know that's a personal quirk of mine. Overall, I think it's good.
September 14, 2011
When her parents leave for a business trip, Emma Vaile revels in the idea of three weeks freedom. Well, until she realises that freedom isn't so much fun when her best friend has moved away and won't speak to her anymore. But when her parents are gone longer than they promised and Emma can't reach them via phone, she starts to grow worried. She's coerced into hosting a party by one of her new friends, Natalie, which the police soon crash. They realise Emma's been home alone without parental guardianship and so she's taken into care. In comes Bennett Stern to the rescue - her newly appointed legal guardian and long-time unrequited love.
Bennett takes her to his families four story museum-like house in Boston, where he's enrolled her in Thatcher Academy. After experiencing some vivid visions where it's like she's literally stepped inside someone elses shoes and the fact that she's seeing people no one else can - Emma discovers she's a Ghostkeeper. Translation: she's not crazy afterall. The ghost lore is what I especially loved about this book. It was so interesting to learn about the different abilities each Ghostkeeper possessed, the types of ghosts (not all are friendly) and the way they're able to interact with the living world. Also, the varying attitudes the Ghostkeeper's had toward the dead. Others didn't quite have the same respect for them as Emma did - I loved that she actually treated them as ordinarily as she would a living person. They're still human, despite a few issues with a beating heart and all.
Emma's been in love with Bennett for years. He was her brother's best friend (note the past tense), but she's never felt like he's seen her as anything more than the 'younger sister'. That doesn't stop her from looking, though. And fantasising. But Bennett has the annoying habit of disappearing any time things get too serious or Emma demands answers. Which often result in the urge to want to smack him upside the head - give Emma some answers! Tell her how you feel! The moments they do spend together crackle with sexual tension. Things unsaid and feelings bubbling under the surface, but never breaking free. Let's face it though, many times it's the chase, the longing, the desire that keeps you on the edge of your seat. We love it when our favourite characters finally hook up, but it's the build up that makes us hold our breath.
I loved all the characters in Deception. Emma is a fun, snarky protagonist who I connected with right from the beginning. Her voice was pitch perfect and came across realistically. Since enrolling in Thatcher Academy, her social interactions are far greater in number than they were back home. She meets an awesome group of new friends - Harry especially, made me laugh out loud multiple times. I loved their conversations in Latin! And then there were the ghosts - from the sweet, mischievous urchin boy named Nicholas, to the mysterious Rake who's hiding more than a few secrets. Every character was brilliantly crafted, daring you not to form an emotional attachment.
The past and present, living and dead, collide in a hauntingly addictive story with enough humour, mystery, romance and ghosty goodness to keep any reader fascinated until the very last page. Which delivers a twist that promises nothing short of a juicy sequel! A sequel that I desperately need to get my hands on asap. Deception is a must read for lovers of ghost stories and those craving something new in the genre - it 100% delivers!
Bennett takes her to his families four story museum-like house in Boston, where he's enrolled her in Thatcher Academy. After experiencing some vivid visions where it's like she's literally stepped inside someone elses shoes and the fact that she's seeing people no one else can - Emma discovers she's a Ghostkeeper. Translation: she's not crazy afterall. The ghost lore is what I especially loved about this book. It was so interesting to learn about the different abilities each Ghostkeeper possessed, the types of ghosts (not all are friendly) and the way they're able to interact with the living world. Also, the varying attitudes the Ghostkeeper's had toward the dead. Others didn't quite have the same respect for them as Emma did - I loved that she actually treated them as ordinarily as she would a living person. They're still human, despite a few issues with a beating heart and all.
Emma's been in love with Bennett for years. He was her brother's best friend (note the past tense), but she's never felt like he's seen her as anything more than the 'younger sister'. That doesn't stop her from looking, though. And fantasising. But Bennett has the annoying habit of disappearing any time things get too serious or Emma demands answers. Which often result in the urge to want to smack him upside the head - give Emma some answers! Tell her how you feel! The moments they do spend together crackle with sexual tension. Things unsaid and feelings bubbling under the surface, but never breaking free. Let's face it though, many times it's the chase, the longing, the desire that keeps you on the edge of your seat. We love it when our favourite characters finally hook up, but it's the build up that makes us hold our breath.
I loved all the characters in Deception. Emma is a fun, snarky protagonist who I connected with right from the beginning. Her voice was pitch perfect and came across realistically. Since enrolling in Thatcher Academy, her social interactions are far greater in number than they were back home. She meets an awesome group of new friends - Harry especially, made me laugh out loud multiple times. I loved their conversations in Latin! And then there were the ghosts - from the sweet, mischievous urchin boy named Nicholas, to the mysterious Rake who's hiding more than a few secrets. Every character was brilliantly crafted, daring you not to form an emotional attachment.
The past and present, living and dead, collide in a hauntingly addictive story with enough humour, mystery, romance and ghosty goodness to keep any reader fascinated until the very last page. Which delivers a twist that promises nothing short of a juicy sequel! A sequel that I desperately need to get my hands on asap. Deception is a must read for lovers of ghost stories and those craving something new in the genre - it 100% delivers!
August 14, 2011
3.5 Stars: I was looking forward to starting this series as soon as I heard about it, so I was more than excited when it arrived in my mailbox last week. This book actually really surprised me because Nichols delivers an exciting ghost story that left me wanting more. It’s definitely a great way to kick off a new series.
When Emma Vaile’s parents go on a business trip, Emma does what any other normal teenage girl does when their parents leave them at home alone; she throws a party. What Emma doesn’t expect is for the police to turn up and try to send her to a half-way house because she hasn’t had any communication with her parents for a few weeks. When her brother’s best friend Bennett turns up to save her, he makes Emma move to New England. It is there she finds out she’s a ghost keeper, someone who can see and communicate with Ghosts. As Emma goes on a whirlwind journey trying to find out about her new powers and also crushing on Bennett hard, she finds out danger a waits for her and she is in the middle of it all.
Most of you know, I’ve tend to struggle with Ghost stories other than the odd few but this book has left me with a little bit of hope that Ghosts are just as good any other supernatural creatures. Deception is full of adventure, action, mystery and even has some very creepy scenes. I honestly don’t scare very easily and even though I wasn’t REALLY that scared reading this, it still left me with a teeny tiny scared feeling because Nichols descriptions are so imaginable and believable. It honestly gave me the chills in some scenes.
The characters are amazing! Emma is such a fun, lovable and quirky person. She has a fantastic personality and I loved the relationships she develops with all the other ghosts in the house. I also really loved her human friends too; Coby of course being my favourite but then Harry came in at a close second. I loved his sense of humour and literally had me laughing out loud. I have to say I’m a little disappointed where the author took Coby’s character. It’s a shame and I’m still trying to figure why it had to happen but I’m interested to see where it leads.
Now even though I enjoyed the overall story, the reason I rated it 3.5 is because you all know I’m a romance girl and there was only a little bit of a romance between Bennett and Emma. I honestly found it quiet hard to believe where their love came from. I felt there wasn’t much interaction between the two characters on the romance side and when something did finally happen, they were suddenly declaring their undying love for one another. To me, it just felt very rushed. Maybe the author intended it this way but I felt Nichols struggled capture their relationship and for that reason, I didn’t connect with them as much as I would have liked.
Overall, I did really enjoy this book and I’ll look forward to seeing where the author now takes this series.
When Emma Vaile’s parents go on a business trip, Emma does what any other normal teenage girl does when their parents leave them at home alone; she throws a party. What Emma doesn’t expect is for the police to turn up and try to send her to a half-way house because she hasn’t had any communication with her parents for a few weeks. When her brother’s best friend Bennett turns up to save her, he makes Emma move to New England. It is there she finds out she’s a ghost keeper, someone who can see and communicate with Ghosts. As Emma goes on a whirlwind journey trying to find out about her new powers and also crushing on Bennett hard, she finds out danger a waits for her and she is in the middle of it all.
Most of you know, I’ve tend to struggle with Ghost stories other than the odd few but this book has left me with a little bit of hope that Ghosts are just as good any other supernatural creatures. Deception is full of adventure, action, mystery and even has some very creepy scenes. I honestly don’t scare very easily and even though I wasn’t REALLY that scared reading this, it still left me with a teeny tiny scared feeling because Nichols descriptions are so imaginable and believable. It honestly gave me the chills in some scenes.
The characters are amazing! Emma is such a fun, lovable and quirky person. She has a fantastic personality and I loved the relationships she develops with all the other ghosts in the house. I also really loved her human friends too; Coby of course being my favourite but then Harry came in at a close second. I loved his sense of humour and literally had me laughing out loud. I have to say I’m a little disappointed where the author took Coby’s character. It’s a shame and I’m still trying to figure why it had to happen but I’m interested to see where it leads.
Now even though I enjoyed the overall story, the reason I rated it 3.5 is because you all know I’m a romance girl and there was only a little bit of a romance between Bennett and Emma. I honestly found it quiet hard to believe where their love came from. I felt there wasn’t much interaction between the two characters on the romance side and when something did finally happen, they were suddenly declaring their undying love for one another. To me, it just felt very rushed. Maybe the author intended it this way but I felt Nichols struggled capture their relationship and for that reason, I didn’t connect with them as much as I would have liked.
Overall, I did really enjoy this book and I’ll look forward to seeing where the author now takes this series.
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