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From New York Times Bestselling Author Elisabeth Naughton, the second book in the House of Sin Series.

Some doors were never meant to be opened...

I made a fateful mistake. I should never have peeked behind the doors into his forbidden world.

But I did, and now I’m a prisoner. Trapped by the man I thought loved. The man I once foolishly trusted. The man who, despite his lies and deception, I continue to crave.

He can melt my resolve with one rough, whispered demand, and I feel myself giving in to the desire he still stirs inside me. And yet, if I want to survive, I must find a way to escape. Because if I don’t, I’m afraid I’ll be consumed by a shadowy world that will ultimately destroy me.

Lost forever in his wicked House of Sin

350 pages, ebook

Published May 15, 2018

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About the author

Elisabeth Naughton

61 books3,143 followers
Before topping multiple bestseller lists—including those of the New York Times, USA Today, and the Wall Street Journal—award winning author Elisabeth Naughton taught middle school science. A voracious reader, she soon discovered she had a knack for creating stories with a chemistry of their own. The spark turned into a flame, and Elisabeth now writes full-time.

Though primarily known for her romantic suspense work, Elisabeth has penned over thirty books and continues to write in multiple genres, including paranormal romance and contemporary romance. Her books have been translated into numerous languages and have earned several award nominations, including three prestigious RITA® nominations from Romance Writers of America. In 2017, REPRESSED, the first book in her Deadly Secrets series, won the RITA® for best romantic suspense.

Elisabeth's work has been praised by the Chicago Tribune as being filled with "deadly intrigue, high adrenaline action, and scorchingly hot passion.” Kirkus calls her "a writer talented enough at weaving a yarn to get her readers ensnared in it.” When not dreaming up new stories, Elisabeth can be found spending time with her husband and three children in their western Oregon home, wrangling two cats, or chasing after one very rambunctious Dalmatian.

Learn more about Elisabeth and her books at www.ElisabethNaughton.com.

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5 stars
402 (52%)
4 stars
231 (30%)
3 stars
94 (12%)
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31 (4%)
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10 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
Profile Image for Geo Marcovici.
1,336 reviews319 followers
April 21, 2019
Povestea continuă, pericolele cresc, suspansul este la ordinea zilei și Luc și Natalie au de luptat cu toate obstacolele care le apar in cale. Acțiunea se desfășoară atât pe insula lui Luc cât și in Toscana... unde cei doi se lupta sa aibă încredere unul in altul și încearcă sa iasă învingători din confruntarea cu familia lui Luc. Problemele de încredere si comunicare pe care le au cei doi aproape ca ii distrug. Dar, pana la urma își găsesc calea unul spre inima celuilalt, deși finalul ne lasă cu inima in gât, nerăbdători sa citim continuarea.
Profile Image for hugsandcookies.
974 reviews74 followers
June 4, 2018
Oh shoot that cliffhanger 😮 seriously I can’t wait for Book 3.
Profile Image for Bookgasms Book Blog.
2,841 reviews1,441 followers
May 15, 2018
The minute I read the blurb to Elisabeth Naughton's new House of Sin series I knew I needed to read it. I loved Forbidden and thought Deceived was a fantastic sequel continuing Natalie and Luc's story. It was edgy, intense, sexy and full of suspense that kept me glued to the pages. I loved it!

Without giving away any spoilers, Deception continues right where Forbidden ended and we see the ramifications and consequences after that crazy cliffhanger in book one. Natalie is now on an island with Luc and he has made all the necessary steps to protect her from his House. But when he realizes that his family will stop at nothing to protect it's power, he realizes how far he has to go to protect Natalie.

GAHH! I thought Deception was fantastic. I was so excited to jump right back into Natalie and Luc's tumultuous love story. It was so sexy and intense with more of an emotional insight into their feelings for one another. I seriously can't wait for book three! Bravo! 4 stars! ~Ratula
Profile Image for Sissy's Romance Book Review .
8,854 reviews16 followers
May 12, 2018
Deceived by Elisabeth Naughton is book Two in the House of Sin Series. This continues the story of Luciano Salvaciti and Natalie James. You really need to read the previous book 'Forbidden' to understand this book.
Deceived picks up just a few days after Forbidden ended. Natalie awakes to see herself marked with Slave on her Ring finger and Luc's initials on the other side of her finger. Luc is trying to keep Natalie away from the house and his morbid family...but through protecting her he is bring her further from him. In the thought of protecting her he has marked her as his with the Tattoo on her ring finger, kidnapped to a island where he plans to keep her from his family.
This series is a really Dark Romance that may have trigger issue for some. This book also ends sitting us up for the next installment in their story via the third book 'Undone'.
Exciting read!
Profile Image for Dora Koutsoukou .
1,966 reviews566 followers
June 14, 2018
5 💞💞🔥💥✨💞💞💞🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟s‼️‼️‼️

“All I saw was her, standing regally in the shadows, watching me with an unreadable expression. This amazing, incredible woman who made angry look beautiful and weak look invincible and who, even now, even after all the ugly things she’d said and heard and witnessed, was the most angelic thing I’d ever seen.
My angioletto. The only person in the world who had the power to once and truly break me. And who I was pretty sure would before all was said and done.” Luciano
Profile Image for Tammy.
766 reviews42 followers
May 21, 2018
Deceived was another Sensational, Edge of Your Seat, Page-Turned by Elisabeth Naughton.

Luc and Natalie have true feelings for each other, but what will happen when they each push each other to the brink? Luc's family is truly nuts and Natalie is hanging on by a very thin thread while they are back in Italy for Luc to visit his family. We see what happens to Dante when he defies his family, so what is going to happen when Luc also defies them?

Oh, Luc?? What have you done? And Natalie?

I can't wait to get Undone (House of Sin Book#3) in June of 2018. This is an amazing new series by Elisabeth and she has outdone herself on these books. They are all wonderfully written and keep you on the edge of your seat and always wondering what will happen next.
Profile Image for Denise H.
995 reviews53 followers
January 30, 2024
Fear. Betrayal. Desperation. Anguish. Love. My heart may not survive this series. The emotions Elisabeth brings forth in DECEIVED, the second installment of the House of Sin series, is unbelievable. This is definitely a story that will make your heart race and have you holding your breath, anticipating Luc and Natalie’s fate. This story picks up right where FORBIDDEN leaves off and jumps right in filling in the gaps. A few of the characters from book one make an appearance, as well as an introduction to new friends and allies of Luc’s, but this read centers mostly on the tenuous relationship between Natalie and Luc and brings forth another threat to their fragile bond…one that could be fatal. Questions are answered, decisions are made and truths are revealed but serious mistakes have been made that will have major consequences for them both. The air of suspense and danger is thick in this tale and you will wonder from page to page what their fate will be. Will Luc and Natalie be able to navigate the dangerous waters of deception and lies and come out unscathed? Or will Luc’s House rein the victor in this dark tale? Join Natalie and Luc’s journey and be prepared, once again, to be swept away and for the second cliffhanger that is more harrowing than the first. DECEIVED is a gripping story full of a tangled web of emotions, suspense, well-written characters with strength and depth and a thrilling storyline that will leave you breathless.

*I have reviewed this book under no obligation to the author or other party and have received no gift or other compensation for this review. The thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are strictly my own.
Profile Image for Fantasy Land Romance Reader.
2,830 reviews70 followers
May 18, 2018
This is the second book of The House of Sin series. You have to read the first book Forbidden

Deceived is well titled for this book. We kind of start back where we were in the last book. Natalie is waking up from being drugged and is trying to figure out what the heck Luc has done to her. Needless to say, she is not at all happy when she finds out what has happened while she was out.

Luc has done some things he is not happy to have done to keep Natalie alive and hopefully safe from his family. He is doing everything he can to make her submissive to him and the families. But he soon learns that she never will be that way. These two have to come to terms with their new lives and become a team or they will both die.

This book is full of emotions, betrayal, friendship, broken promises, and love. Man, I loved it. This is one of those books where you are so afraid to read it because you have no idea where you will end up. And when you start reading it you can not put it down. I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy for my honest review. I am so excited to read the next book!
April 27, 2018
I admit that book one started out rough for me. Get through it people because book #2 is non stop action from the start. This book picks up within a few days of the end of FORBIDDEN. You need to read the books in order.

This continues Natalie and Luc's story. The title of the book pretty much sums everything up. What lies were told? Who continues to lie? Is withholding information deceiving or is it for your own protection? Natalie is still neck deep in all the crazy that is Luc's family. She isn't sure who to trust but Luc is trying his hardest to let it be him.

Globetrotting adventure. Scenic locals. Two angry lovers that can't help but be drawn to each other. Intrigue. Oh...and deception. Loved this book! Great writing. And a cliffy that I'm not too upset about but the next book is going to be a doozy!!

Start the series today. It's a fresh premise and a book that will leave you begging for MORE!

*Complimentary copy provided for an honest review.
Profile Image for Glamdring.
505 reviews120 followers
June 23, 2018
*1,5 stars*

description


I'm sorry but this book in the series didn't do it for me either. Too much drama, too much cheesy inner dialogs, too predictable, not enough interesting things happening. Actually, I could copy/paste my review of the first book and it would fit perfectly.
Profile Image for Lynn Reynolds.
1,697 reviews40 followers
May 15, 2018
Rating: 4.5 Stars

Natalie James is confused. Then it goes from confusion to “what the…” She also lets us know that some things have been solved but now there are other things going on that will have you wondering what this author has in store for her characters. Luciano “Luc” Salvatici is angry and frustrated. He’s still something of an enigma but he seems a little more human here. At times he even seemed a little vulnerable. There are some new secondary characters. They have connections to Luc and he’s a little more forthcoming to Natalie about them. It didn’t take long to realize that I was hooked – line and sinker.

It was interesting to watch the light bulb above Luc’s head finally go on. But my questions become, “will it stay on?” Maybe dim a little? How will Natalie handle things? If you like a book with a lot of emotion, the author has done a great job here. You can feel Natalie’s hatred, maybe even anger, coming right off the page. And we all know what the opposite of that is.

You can’t start this series here. It’s not one where you can skip around. In order to understand how Luc and Natalie got where they are here, you have to read the series in order. I have to say that I liked this one just a little bit more than the first one because some things come to light. I could almost see where the author is taking us – sounds good right, and if you believe that one… She likes to tease – by the way, she’s very good at it. My mind starts to go in the direction I think she wants me to go in and then I’m off in a different direction. This becomes more evident as I get closer to the ending. That’s not a bad thing because that’s what has me continually turning the page. Maybe I’ll have to let the author know that I have vertigo issues when I change direction too quickly. But then I won’t have to because she stopped me dead in my tracks – I’m left hanging on a ledge until the next book comes out.

I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Up All Night With Books.
1,157 reviews40 followers
May 14, 2018
4.5 Deceiving Stars
Review by Amy W.
Late Night Reviewer for Up All Night w/ Books Blog


I'd known love wasn't real. I'd known it was a myth, but I'd let myself be fooled by a handsome face, by an empty promise, by meaningless words. And that was what hurt the most.

Elisabeth Naughton knew what she was doing when she titled this one Deceived. So many deceptions, lies and secrets around every turn. Even as a reader its hard to know who to trust and just when you think there is a happy ever after in the future the wool is thrown over your head.

At some point I had to wake up from this nightmare, didn't I?

First thing first, you need to have read Forbidden before reading Deceived, this is not a standalone story. I can't say much about the storyline, its one you need to read to understand, but Natalie and Luc have so much to contend with. So many circumstances and people standing in their way.

I knew what I wanted. I knew what I needed to do to protect my heart and mind. But the instant Luc kissed me, I forgot everything but him.

I feel that Natalie and Luc's journey, or more like nightmare, gets more twisted the more I read. Nothing is as it seems and I can't wait to find out all the answers to the many questions I have. One that has been on my mind since the end of book one, where is Gio? He's going to pop back up and give me the shock of my life, I just know it.

So, I am just going to sit back and anxiously await for the moment Undone hits my kindle and I get the answers I need. Bravo Ms. Naughton, you have my full attention and I cannot wait to see what happens next in the Salvatici House.

**ARC provided by author for honest review**
Profile Image for Donna.
582 reviews16 followers
May 11, 2018
WOW! Talk about an emotional roller coaster .. and it's not even done yet!

EN has hit it out of the park with this one, no doubt. The pace of this second installment in her 'House of Sin' series is fast & furious. Beginning with Natalie waking up in a completely unexpected place & situation and leaving us with a dramatic cliffhanger (thanks loads for that! ugh), nothing is certain or to be taken for granted when it comes to House Salvatici.

Natalie and Luc are both so full of fear and doubt but also a deep belief in each other. They both want the same thing - just to be able to be together - yet that is the one thing that bring all the uncertainty and danger.

Hold on tight when you're reading this - you're in for quite a ride.
Profile Image for Sarah.
576 reviews5 followers
May 12, 2018
Wowza! Deceived is Book 2 of Elisabeth Naughton's Hours of Sin series. This story packed quite the punch right from the start and the heart-pounding cliffhanger ending, Oh My Gosh NOOO! I can't wait!

While Book 1 was good, Book 2 was AMAZING! Natalie finally seems to grasp the severity of what she's involved in and came across as more level-headed this time around. This story is filled to the brim with murder, mayhem, and deceit. We do finally learn some cold harsh truths behind the Salvatici Family history as well. Things that have changed Luc into the person he is today.

I am on pins and needles waiting to see what happens next!
33 reviews
May 13, 2018
Heart Breaking, Deceived starts right where Forbidden left off, if you don't like heart ache and emotional stories.this is not for you, I have cryed more from this series alone than any other time, Luc's and Natalie life is so up and down and emotional, when you thing is going to be ok in there relationship something comes out of nowhere and messes things up again for them I can't wait for the final book... I love that I don't have to wait for months to get to finish this series, I would be on line and neddles waiting for it...... MUST READ ...
Profile Image for Jo.
1,471 reviews12 followers
April 22, 2019
Oh, this couple.

I thought that they would stay with me after I read book 1, and book 2 solidified that for me.

Don't get me wrong - when you're invested in a storyline line like that, the direction that this book goes in was incredibly frustrating. At least for the first part of this volume.

But then things took a turn. And it became something different again. Still dark, yes. But the heart came back.

That ending though? Once again, left hanging. I can't wait for more!

I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
4 reviews
May 19, 2018
Whew, I must say that this is quickly becoming my favorite series! It's just so enthralling. You get so engulfed in the story, action and romance. I really liked the first book but this book has outdone the first in the series. I am sooo excited to see what happens next! My husband likes that im reading this series ;) I was soo busy that it took me a few weeks to read but even when I hadn't read in a few days it was still on my mind. Its one of those books that sticks with you. Not just the romance part but the storyline just engulfs you. I highly recommend! Enjoy!
Profile Image for NanaX8.
1,953 reviews57 followers
April 24, 2018
WOWEEEE, I am so thoroughly in love with this series...i have never found a series where you get this much mystery, history, mayhem, back stabbing and sexy romance/love that keeps you on the edge of your seat not knowing what will happen next. I cannot wait for the next book. Grab this series if you love these kinds of reads. Thank you Ms Naughton for another awesome book. I volunteered an honest review for this ARC.
Profile Image for Christine.
1,645 reviews
May 16, 2018
Natalie is one amazingly strong feisty woman. Luc is one complicated strong man. Luc comes from one messed up family. They have some really bizarre beliefs. Could not wait to see where the story would go. Can’t wait to read the next book.
Profile Image for Sandy S.
7,097 reviews183 followers
May 18, 2018
4.25 stars

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 15, 2018

Some doors were never meant to be opened...

I made a fateful mistake. I should never have peeked behind the doors into his forbidden world.

But I did, and now I’m a prisoner. Trapped by the man I thought loved. The man I once foolishly trusted; the man who, despite his lies and deception, I continue to crave.

He can melt my resolve with one rough, whispered demand, and I feel myself giving in to the desire he still stirs inside me. And yet, if I want to survive, I must find a way to escape. Because if I don’t, I’m afraid I’ll be consumed by a shadowy world that will ultimately destroy me.

Lost forever in his wicked House of Sin


••••••••

REVIEW: 4.25 stars--DECEIVED is the second instalment in Elisabeth Naughton’s contemporary, adult HOUSE OF SIN dark, erotic, romantic suspense series focusing on twenty-four year old, American Natalie James, and thirty-two year old Italian businessman Luciano Salvatici. DECEIVED should not be read as a stand alone as if picks up immediately following the events of book on FORBIDDEN.

NOTE: Due to the story line content, there may be some triggers for more sensitive readers.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Natalie and Luc) DECEIVED continues to focus on the struggling relationship between twenty-four year old, American Natalie James, and thirty-two year old Italian businessman Luciano Salvatici. A virtual prisoner of the man that she loves Natalie finds herself caught between hatred and love as she is whisked to places unknown in an effort to save her life. The House of Salvatici in Italy, and the people in control stop at nothing to ensure the purity of the line including the death and destruction of their own. As Luc is pulled deeper into a world of madness, depravity and greed, Natalie realizes there may be no hope or end in sight. Heir to the House of Salvatici, Luc hopes to one day set changes into motion but changes later will not save the people he loves, now.

DECEIVED is a dark romance of family honor, deception, betrayal and fear. Hundreds of years of deviance, influence and control have pushed the five ruling Houses into a position of ultimate power such that our hero knows to protect the woman he loves sacrifices are made including the death of one of their own.

DECEIVED reveals the story of a darkened, twisted history of atrocities and wickedness, monstrous acts of condemnation and the inhumanity of power and greed; of one man’s fight to save the woman he loves, and one woman’s struggle to survive at all costs. Heartbreaking and intriguing, DECEIVED exposes the savage nature of the House of Salvatici, and the lengths, of which, the family will go to protect the secrets that keep buried centuries of sin, vile behavior and immorality.

Elisabeth Naughton pulls the reader into an intense, thrilling and erotic ride; an edgy and dramatic tale of misogyny and questionable acts of deviance and horror that will have you questioning the reality of the people in charge.

DECEIVED ends on a cliff hanger-you have been warned.

Copy supplied for review

www.thereadingcafe.com
April 11, 2024
Oh my word, you could cut the tension with a knife in this book. The threat, the intrigue and the half-truths make your head spin and your heart ache.

This is a gripping romantic suspense with a dark underbelly of threatening evil. Deceived (Book #2 in the House of Sin series) picks up a few days after the end of Forbidden , which must be read BEFORE reading this book. Once you've read Forbidden you will understand why I am hooked on this series and read Deceived as soon as it dropped on my kindle.

Despite the description, I knew I was getting a dark themed romantic suspense, rather than a truly dark romance. However that really doesn't matter because both Forbidden and Deceived are incredibly well written books, with a plot that immediately sucks you into the story and characters that steal both your heart and soul.

Forbidden ends with Luc drugging and kidnapping Natalie. This is done to try and keep her safe from the evil clutches of his family, but you just know it doesn't bode well. Despite their love for one another both Luc and Natalie struggle to do the right thing, to trust and be honest with the other, and this leads to a clash of wills and lots of angst.

A call from home drags them back into the path of Luc's family. Can Natalie reconcile her love for Luc with her hatred of his House? Will Luc be able to keep Natalie safe? There is a battle for control and power between Luc and the House Salvatici, and it isn't only Natalie that ends up in the cross-hairs. I'll warn you now...this ends on one heck of a cliff hanger. A screaming 'NO!!!!! YOU CAN'T DO THAT' cliff hanger.

Luc and Natalie really go through the wringer in this book. Sometimes I forgot that they had only known each other a few weeks. It felt like for every two steps forward they took one, two and often three steps backwards. They tore my heart in two, just as they ripped each other's hearts apart. This book is like being cast adrift in the middle of a huge storm, the waves of emotion poured over me, battered me, threatened to pull me under and drown me, yet they are also what kept me afloat.

I have no clue as to how the story will continue in the next book. I'm hoping for a HEA. Actually I'm hoping for hellfire and damnation to rain down on the House of Salvatici and devour all those with evil in their hearts, but I'll settle for a HEA instead.

If you're looking for a damn good read, one that kept me reading until 2AM IN THE MORNING, because heck this isn't the kind of book you can put down once you've started it, then look no further. Be warned there is a plenty of steamy sex, some bad language and one very hot alpha male who occasionally needs a slap upside the head. (If that doesn't make you want to read it then I'm not sure what will). Oh and Book 3 won't be out for a couple of weeks yet *sigh* but at least that will give your head and heart some time to recover.
Profile Image for Jana LaPelle.
Author 8 books42 followers
April 27, 2018
Desperate for More…

Deceived picks up where Forbidden leaves off, and the reader finds Natalie in quite the dire situation. Luc’s deceit runs deep, and Natalie struggles to find her footing where Luc is concerned. All the while, Luc is desperate to keep Natalie away from his family and safe from his House. Along the way, he finds that he has royally screwed up in some of the decisions that he made concerning Natalie, decisions made without her consent. Decisions that ultimately drive a wedge between the two leaving Natalie wondering what else she doesn’t know, making trusting Luc darn near impossible. For me, Deceived was one continuous rollercoaster ride that at times I was desperate to get off and at other times desperate for more leaving me emotionally exhausted. The range of emotions that Luc and Natalie are left to deal with after the fall out of events that took place in Forbidden is off the charts and for the first time in the series my heart goes out to Luc as he struggles to win Natalie over because not doing so will put both of their lives at risk. Star-crossed lovers does not even come close to describing Luc and Natalie and the situation in which they find themselves in, and I find that I desperately want an HEA for these two lovers.

For fans of the series so far, Deceived will be quite the eye opener as to how twisted this order/House really is and to what lengths they are willing to go to preserve the old customs and rituals. Their depravity knows no bounds and their methods of doling out punishment is truly despicable, messing with the minds and hearts of those on the receiving end. By the end of the book, I was left wondering how anyone could possibly walk away unscathed given the ruthless ways in which the House will bend those in opposition to their will. Can Luc and Natalie survive what awaits them? To what lengths are they willing to go just to be together? Will it be more than either of them can bare? By the end of Deceived, I was emotionally distraught and left desperate for Undone. Warning: the cliffhanger at the end had my stomach twisted in knots about what is to happen next. Long story short, I couldn’t put Deceived down, and I’m totally hooked on the series.

Last but not least, I received an ARC of Deceived for an honest review, which in no way influenced my review. Thank you, Elisabeth Naughton, I’m not sure if I want to hug you for creating a captivating series or rant about how I have to wait for Undone to see what happens next.

May 18, 2018
This story just gets better and scarier! Deceived is the second book in the House of Sin trilogy and if you haven’t read Forbidden, the first book, don’t even think of reading them out of order! Just like its predecessor, this story ends in a HUGE cliffhanger that had my heart beating erratically. I swear I’ll need to visit a cardiologist sometime soon, if this series doesn’t kill me first, I’m sure my heart stopping several times while reading isn’t normal. I have no idea where or how Ms Naughton comes up with all the plot twists and details, the writing is superb, and the characters are so multifaceted; I kept wondering who’s a villain and who’s a good guy, not everything is as it seems. I’m going to very vague, you need to read and experience it for yourselves. Let me just say I fell deeper in love with Luc than I could’ve imagined! Is it June 5th, yet?

Luc will do whatever it takes to keep Natalie alive. Not just safe, but hide her and disobey his family, after rescuing Natalie from the hitmen his father sent to kill her. Natalie can’t understand how someone who claims to love you can do the things Luc has done to her; all she wants is to get away from him and his wretched family and their secrets. Natalie’s feelings soften, and she begins to understand him, when Luc confides his deepest, darkest secret to her. Luc tells her everything, so she’ll understand why he’s so fearful of his family and what they can do to her. He knows he can’t lose her, and swears he’ll protect her at all costs.

“My angioletto. The only person in the world who had the power to once and truly break me. And who I was pretty sure would before all was said and done.”

With lives in danger and knowing one false move can be fatal, they make a decision to go back to Italy and defy the House of Salvaciti, in order to protect and rescue loved ones. Luc tries desperately to awaken the feelings Natalie has buried; in order to protect not only herself, but her heart. And after a lifetime of betrayal she knows she doesn’t want to feel any more pain and will do everything she can to make sure of it.

“I didn’t know if I could trust my heart or my eyes. I only knew that there were two kinds of pain in life—the kind that hurts a person and the kind that changes a person. I was just deathly afraid to discover whether it would change me for good or bad.”

This story ends with a terrifying cliffhanger and I was screaming at my Kindle ‘Noooo, that’s not supposed to happen, there are RULES!’ Sometimes rules don’t apply and I guess this is one of them.
Profile Image for Sherry.
346 reviews8 followers
April 30, 2018
I'm going to enlighten you and entice you to get this book. This is my intent.

I was given this book by the author and in no way am I being coherence in giving a review. I am doing it with my own free will.

This is the second part of Luc's and Natalie's story. Have you ever read a story and felt you were a voyeur looking in and watching all that is being transpired, not just sexually, but feeling the pain and angst, the emotional suffocating desire to try and help one or the other?

This is how I felt reading this book. Luc is such a powerful character, strong physically, but emotionally he is nothing but putty.

Natalie will not be pushed, shoved or lied to any longer, but this is her new reality.

The tug and pull the desire of Natalie and Luc is so overwhelming, their desire for one another and the strong wills they both possess is like a stalemate of what they truly want. Their desire for one another is so gut wrenching, I felt like crying, and sadly they didn't know what to do about it. It is so fresh and new to them, both didn't want to be hurt, but they were hurting each other anyway.

Luc deceived Natalie, by underhandedly doing what he did to make her his, to protect her from his father, because as you know from the first book his father didn't want Luc with Natalie.

Both Luc and Natalie are on the cusp of breaking down their barriers and finally realize what is important to them. Each other... I felt so many variants of emotion while reading their story, I either wanted to shake them until their teeth rattled for how they were treating each other or comfort them for their pain.

A lot of the characters from the first book are in this one, and I am sure they will be in the third installment as well.

So many surprises will become unfolded in this story, which when it is all said and done, you will say "well holymoly seriously?? I cannot believe it ended this way. "

But wait it hasn't... one more book another story to be told, and believe me I for one will be getting it.
I finished this last week, but I had to chew on it for a bit before giving my review.
Profile Image for Jennifer Jones.
78 reviews1 follower
May 7, 2018
In the second installment of the series, DECEIVED will have you on the edge of your seat wondering what is happening, what will happen and how it will happen! These books must be read in order, so if you haven't yet, read FORBIDDEN before this one.

Natalie wakes up to find herself on an island. She knows that Luc has kidnapped her but she doesn't fully understand why, all she knows is she has to escape. Luc knows she can't go anywhere, but he's done more than bring her to a secluded island his family doesn't know about. He's forever marked her as his in order to keep her safe from his family. His family won't be pleased, but he knows it will keep her safe.

Natalie doesn't trust Luc, and tries her hardest to figure out a way to get away from him. It isn't until she meets and talks with two of Luc's caretakers on the island that she begins to understand who Luc is, what he's doing for her and how he's protecting her from the extreme danger she is in.

Just when they start to actually open up to each other, discover how much each other means to them, Luc finds out that his brother, Dante, is in danger from the family. Luc must leave the island and Natalie behind to help his brother. Once back in Italy, Luc finds out very disturbing news that affects his and Natalie's future.

Will Natalie and Luc be able to survive his family's ruthless stronghold over him? And will Luc be able to save Natalie once he uncovers a deadly secret his family has?

Be prepared that this is a cliffhanger book, with the third installment soon to follow. Natalie and Luc are more fleshed out, especially in regards to Luc, his family and exactly how far they are willing to go to keep Luc in their circle. Natalie slowly understands who Luc really is, how much he cares about her, and she for him. The book is quick paced, with lots of continued character development, and enough romantic moments to remind you that this is their love story.

It's an escape that is not the least bit relaxing, but heart pounding and riveting. If you're looking for a solid, in-depth series, with mystery, drama, intrigue, love, sex and murder....you've hit the jackpot!
Profile Image for Karen.
16 reviews1 follower
May 18, 2018
First, let me start by saying that this book is not a stand alone. It is the second in the House of Sin series. The first book, Forbidden, must be read prior to starting this book or you will be totally lost.

Deceived starts almost immediately where Forbidden leaves off. Luc, in trying to keep Natalie safe and off the radar of those trying to harm her, has made some decisions and taken some actions of which Natalie was unaware. The first half of the book tends to bog down a bit during the discoveries of these actions and their consequences. Mistrust and doubt return to the forefront of Luc and Natalie’s relationship, and because of that, neither wishes to be open and honest with the other.

An emergency situation causes a change of location and both Luc and Nat are trying to help each other, but each one is still harboring doubts about the sincerity of the other and thus further complicates matters, and not just romantically.

The second half of the book really picks up speed and returns us to the thrill of the adventure and the desperation of two people trying to do what is right, not only for each other but for others as well. The second half is Naughton at her best, weaving an intricate and suspenseful storyline.

Elisabeth Naughton is also a master at creating full rich characters that come to life and stay on your mind. This book is no exception. We are introduced to new characters who capture us and we revisit other characters from the first novel that are developed further in this, the second novel. Let me just say, that these villains are some of the most dastardly evil people I ever remember encountering in literature.

Although a bit slow on the uptake, when the action did pick up, it really accelerated quickly. Everybody is suspect. Everything is messed up. Time is running out. It seems nobody has control over anything anymore. I am addicted - to The House of Sin. You should be too.


Profile Image for Brittany Alexander.
577 reviews20 followers
May 13, 2018
OH MY GOD WHAT A CLIFFHANGER!!!!!

I JUST finished this book and I am DYING for the next book!!! This series has captivated me and drawn me in and I am so invested in this story that I feel like I can't wait to find out what happens next!!!

This book starts out with Natalie waking up on Luc's island in the South Pacific to find out they got married, but Natalie didn't do it willingly. Furious at Luc, she tries to find a way off the island, only one thing stops her. They're surrounded by water.

Luc and Natalie push and pull each other, desperate to be together, but not sure if it's right or the best thing for the two of them. Natalie hates Luc one day and loves him the next. Luc said all that he does is for her safety, to protect her from the evils of his House, but she doesn't believe him.

The book ends with them in Italy, facing problems from House Salvatici. Spoiler: it does not end well. This cliffhanger might certainly (that's oxymoronic, but oh well), be the death of me.

I so enjoyed reading more of Luc and Natalie. They are probably one of my favorite couples that I've had the pleasure of reading about. Because they love each other so fiercely, so deeply, that it's impossible not to feel it radiating off the pages.

Full of suspense, Deceived is one story you don't want to miss. If you read Forbidden, book one, then you must read book two. I absolutely love the feeling of not being able to read fast enough, not being able to devour the words quick enough. This book is one of those that you will not want to put down.

Elisabeth Naughton, you're becoming one of my favorite authors and I've only read two books by you. I am dying for book three! I can't wait to have it in my hands!
Profile Image for Gigi staub.
942 reviews18 followers
May 18, 2018
Some doors were never meant to be opened...

I made a fateful mistake. I should never have peeked behind the doors into his forbidden world.

But I did, and now I’m a prisoner. Trapped by the man I thought loved. The man I once foolishly trusted. The man who, despite his lies and deception, I continue to crave.

He can melt my resolve with one rough, whispered demand, and I feel myself giving in to the desire he still stirs inside me. And yet, if I want to survive, I must find a way to escape. Because if I don’t, I’m afraid I’ll be consumed by a shadowy world that will ultimately destroy me.

Lost forever in his wicked House of Sin…

Review:

I am starting with these warnings...You absolutely need to read the first book in the series before reading this book and this ends on a cliffhanger.

Now, that those things are out of the way, on to the review.

This second book in the series is much more an emotional, drama, angst filled book. There is some action, but it is really an emotional book. Luc and Natalie each have to deal with their emotions and how to deal with them. They also, work on being a couple and themselves while dealing with all the outside forces at work against them. Of course their chemistry is never an issue and it sometimes helps and hinders their trying to work out their problems.

Like the first book, this one is excellently written. Very intense, sexual and emotional. Luckily these books come out close to each other, so you if you are like me you do not have too long.

4Stars
*I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this book provided by the Tour Host.*
Profile Image for Confessions of A Bibliophile.
144 reviews12 followers
June 11, 2018
After the cliffhanger ending Forbidden, I was itching to dive back into Luc and Natalie's world!

Deceived picks up a few days after Forbidden ends. Natalie wakes to find herself back in Luc's possession. She is confused, scared, and hurt by what's happening to her and around her. Luc, in his white knight glory, thinks it best not to explain things to her, which didn't sit too well with me. His main objective is to keep Natalie as far as he possibly can from his family's clutches, and he will do anything to do that. He kidnaps her and takes her to a private island where he is hoping to hide her away from The House. He is hoping that Natalie will do whatever he says.

Yeah, sure.

Natalie may not have been born into Luc's sophisticated world, but she's got a backbone made of steel. She is going to fight till the end to get away from Luc. While his intentions are to keep her safe, he should have come clean to Natalie from the beginning instead of trying to keep her in the dark all the time. Natalie is a logical person, and honesty from Luc would have gone a long way with her. Natalie has a hard time trusting Luc, as she should, and this only endangers their relationship.

The chemistry between the two characters really shines in this story, but holy hell the angst really takes the cake. Sinister shadows lurk in every corner, and with the clock ticking and his family closing in, I really felt Luc was stretched thin trying to manage everything at once. While Luc and Natalie love each other, it may not be enough to save either of them.

And then that freaking CLIFFHANGER! I can't even be mad, because the cliffhangers are what makes the stories so great.
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