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Fraud
From USA Today Bestselling author J.L. Berg comes a sexy standalone about love, lies and every dirty little thing in between.
It wasn’t just a job.
It was my way back to the top.
After losing my position as a journalist for one of the biggest news publications in the world, I knew I’d do anything to get it back.
Even if it meant breaking a few hearts to get there.
She was the hottest author in the country. Known only by a pen name, there wasn’t a person alive who wasn’t dying to discover her true identity.
And I’d figured it out.
Her real name was Kate O’Malley and not only did I plan on finding her, but I fully intended on learning every dirty secret she had and exploiting it for my own gain.
But I underestimated my prey.
I didn’t anticipate how her words would intoxicate me, or how the curves of her body would consume me.
I never meant to fall in love.
And now I had a choice to make.
Do I give up everything for the woman I set out to destroy, or walk away, making me the biggest fraud of all?
It wasn’t just a job.
It was my way back to the top.
After losing my position as a journalist for one of the biggest news publications in the world, I knew I’d do anything to get it back.
Even if it meant breaking a few hearts to get there.
She was the hottest author in the country. Known only by a pen name, there wasn’t a person alive who wasn’t dying to discover her true identity.
And I’d figured it out.
Her real name was Kate O’Malley and not only did I plan on finding her, but I fully intended on learning every dirty secret she had and exploiting it for my own gain.
But I underestimated my prey.
I didn’t anticipate how her words would intoxicate me, or how the curves of her body would consume me.
I never meant to fall in love.
And now I had a choice to make.
Do I give up everything for the woman I set out to destroy, or walk away, making me the biggest fraud of all?
326 pages, ebook
First published May 1, 2017
About the author
J.L. Berg
28 books2,250 followersJ.L. Berg is the USA Today bestselling author of the Ready series, the Walls duet and the Lost & Found series. She is a California native living in the beautiful state of historic Virginia. Married to her high school sweetheart, they have two beautiful girls that drive them batty on a daily basis. When she's not writing, you will find her cuddled up, watching a movie with her family, obsessing over minions or devouring anything chocolate! J.L. Berg is represented by Jill Marsal of Marsal Lyon Literary Agency, LLC.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
April 30, 2017
Wow! I absolutely loved this book. Every. Single. Word.
Kate has written a book. A scorching hot, sexy as sin, everyone wants to read it story that she takes no credit for publicly.
As a shy introvert she is adverse to any publicity and prefers to remain in her sedate job at a local college. She has a history that has kept her emotionally tied down, refusing the offer of close friendships and male companionship. She may not be happy, but she is content with her cat, her writing and a bowl of cereal.
Killian has been struggling to regain his fame and fortune in journalism for the past year. Having obtained information regarding the identification of the reclusive author of the hottest new series to hit the bestseller’s list, he takes off across the country in hopes of discovering the mystery woman and what secrets she is hiding.
This couple were so fun and charming. Their banter was quick and witty, always leaving me wanting more of them. They bring out the best in each other even as they maintain their secrets.
This story flows with a pace that keeps you glued to the pages waiting to see what will happen and how it’s all going to go down. The secondary characters were just as entertaining as the hero and heroine without stealing the show. Fraud has plenty of steamy scenes, laughter and even a few tears.
Do not miss the opportunity to read this book. It is definitely going on my favorites list.
Dual POV
Safe IMO - A year before H and h meet there is a scene with ow but it is not explicit.
No abuse
ARC graciously provided to me and this is as honest as I get
Kate has written a book. A scorching hot, sexy as sin, everyone wants to read it story that she takes no credit for publicly.
As a shy introvert she is adverse to any publicity and prefers to remain in her sedate job at a local college. She has a history that has kept her emotionally tied down, refusing the offer of close friendships and male companionship. She may not be happy, but she is content with her cat, her writing and a bowl of cereal.
Killian has been struggling to regain his fame and fortune in journalism for the past year. Having obtained information regarding the identification of the reclusive author of the hottest new series to hit the bestseller’s list, he takes off across the country in hopes of discovering the mystery woman and what secrets she is hiding.
This couple were so fun and charming. Their banter was quick and witty, always leaving me wanting more of them. They bring out the best in each other even as they maintain their secrets.
This story flows with a pace that keeps you glued to the pages waiting to see what will happen and how it’s all going to go down. The secondary characters were just as entertaining as the hero and heroine without stealing the show. Fraud has plenty of steamy scenes, laughter and even a few tears.
Do not miss the opportunity to read this book. It is definitely going on my favorites list.
Dual POV
Safe IMO - A year before H and h meet there is a scene with ow but it is not explicit.
No abuse
ARC graciously provided to me and this is as honest as I get
Shelved as 'dnf'
May 7, 2017Male character was a journalist and was fired because of his last article where he called female gender stupid and petty.
WTF?
He should have been punished and humiliated in public and this wouldn’t be enough.
Then he stole a flash drive from his ex-gf and stalked the heroine.
She wrote a book and wanted to remain incognito.
It was her right to stay anonymous and NO ONE was allowed to remove it from her.
NO ONE!
What he did was INVASION OF PRIVACY!
NO! NO! NO!
WTF?
He should have been punished and humiliated in public and this wouldn’t be enough.
Then he stole a flash drive from his ex-gf and stalked the heroine.
She wrote a book and wanted to remain incognito.
It was her right to stay anonymous and NO ONE was allowed to remove it from her.
NO ONE!
What he did was INVASION OF PRIVACY!
NO! NO! NO!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 5, 2017
JL Berg has the innate ability to deliver both great plot, engaging characters, and steamy romance. She didn't fail us here with Fraud. Kate O'Malley is one of those quiet, introverted, unsocial types- preferring a Saturday night home alone with her beloved cat versus going out clubbing like most single women her age. A college loan officer by day, she's a best-selling sultry erotica writer by night. Hiding behind a pen name, it's the biggest kept secret- who is the author of The Scandal Chronicles?
Killian is down on his luck professionally. A news writer, he took an article a bit too far and offensive, finding himself fired and with a bad reputation. Chronically unemployed, he finds the perfect career changer. He knows the name of the true author of The Scandal Chronicles. Exposing this would gain him huge publicity and monetary success. So, he goes on the hunt for this Laura Stone, aka Katelyn O'Malley. What he doesn't bank on is how completely opposite she is to what he envisioned after reading her book! But you know what they say about the quiet ones!
I have to admit, this entire book I kept forcing myself not to envision E.L. James as our heroine. I don't know why but I just did. Anywho, Fraud was sexy fun and flowed well. Killian was one of those guys I really didn't particularly like early on in the book, but with his change of heart, my opinion of him warmed. He was truly kind of a weasel at first but he wasn't immune to our cute, perky heroine Kate. Both characters have a lot of growth in their journey through this novel. Both having endured sadness and using grief as a bit of a crutch over the years. Will they find strength together to conquer their fears? Will Killian's dishonesty and hunger for selfish professional gain be his demise? We shall see...
Advanced copy received by author in exchange for my honest review.
Killian is down on his luck professionally. A news writer, he took an article a bit too far and offensive, finding himself fired and with a bad reputation. Chronically unemployed, he finds the perfect career changer. He knows the name of the true author of The Scandal Chronicles. Exposing this would gain him huge publicity and monetary success. So, he goes on the hunt for this Laura Stone, aka Katelyn O'Malley. What he doesn't bank on is how completely opposite she is to what he envisioned after reading her book! But you know what they say about the quiet ones!
I have to admit, this entire book I kept forcing myself not to envision E.L. James as our heroine. I don't know why but I just did. Anywho, Fraud was sexy fun and flowed well. Killian was one of those guys I really didn't particularly like early on in the book, but with his change of heart, my opinion of him warmed. He was truly kind of a weasel at first but he wasn't immune to our cute, perky heroine Kate. Both characters have a lot of growth in their journey through this novel. Both having endured sadness and using grief as a bit of a crutch over the years. Will they find strength together to conquer their fears? Will Killian's dishonesty and hunger for selfish professional gain be his demise? We shall see...
Advanced copy received by author in exchange for my honest review.
August 4, 2018
This was a nice quick read. Predictable but entertaining.
Killian started out with deceit in mind and Kate also had her secrets, but they fell in love and then the unfolding of deception started to be revealed.
The chemistry between these two was great.
Killian started out with deceit in mind and Kate also had her secrets, but they fell in love and then the unfolding of deception started to be revealed.
The chemistry between these two was great.
May 25, 2018
Fraud was a standalone by J.L. Berg. It was my first by the author.
Kate O’Malley was the mysterious and wildly successful erotic thriller author, Laura Stone. She lived the quiet shy life of Kate and only branched out to her adventurous self through Laura and kept the secret from everyone except her publisher. Killian Turner was the journalist who was bound and determined to solve the mystery behind the reclusive secret author. Although gorgeous, he was selfish and blood thirsty trying to get his career back on track.
Berg weaved a journey of brokenness, healing, discovery and love. It was well written with only a few editing errors - too many not to notice, but nothing excessive, so not too distracting. In the end, it was a quick, steamy, sweet and enjoyable read.
Additionally her supporting characters were strong, humorous and delightful. I’d love a story for Jane and Liam - maybe together or maybe separate - but they definitely need their story told, so hopefully we’ll get one soon... hint hint.
Kate O’Malley was the mysterious and wildly successful erotic thriller author, Laura Stone. She lived the quiet shy life of Kate and only branched out to her adventurous self through Laura and kept the secret from everyone except her publisher. Killian Turner was the journalist who was bound and determined to solve the mystery behind the reclusive secret author. Although gorgeous, he was selfish and blood thirsty trying to get his career back on track.
Berg weaved a journey of brokenness, healing, discovery and love. It was well written with only a few editing errors - too many not to notice, but nothing excessive, so not too distracting. In the end, it was a quick, steamy, sweet and enjoyable read.
Additionally her supporting characters were strong, humorous and delightful. I’d love a story for Jane and Liam - maybe together or maybe separate - but they definitely need their story told, so hopefully we’ll get one soon... hint hint.
Read
May 4, 2017What do you get when you combine a covert author and a scorned journalist, intent on exposing her secrets? A whole lot of sexy fun.
From USA Today bestselling author J.L. Berg comes an all new standalone about secrets, lies and every dirty thing in between.
Available now exclusively through Amazon!
http://amzn.to/2p2mzt7
From USA Today bestselling author J.L. Berg comes an all new standalone about secrets, lies and every dirty thing in between.
Available now exclusively through Amazon!
http://amzn.to/2p2mzt7
April 30, 2017
Kate fell in love with creating and writing a story at college. She writes an erotic love story and her best friend, who loves the book, encourages her to publish it. When Kate’s books are published, they become bestsellers. Everybody wants to read it and everybody loves it. But nobody knows that Kate is the writer and she wants to keep it that way.
Killian is a journalist, until one piece gets him fired. He finds out Kate’s secret and thinks that writing a piece about her will safe his reputation. He wants to know more about Kate, but the better he gets to know her, the worse he feels about revealing her secret. He isn’t sure anymore about what he should do.
Kate and Killian are fantastic characters! I may not have liked what Killian wants to do, but I ended up falling hard for him. He’s passionate, sweet, caring, determined and charming. Journalism is his life, so he wants his job back and wants to do anything for it. Killian slowly changes after meeting Kate. He didn’t believe in love, but he slowly falls in love with Kate. He wants a future with her.
Kate is passionate, hardworking, caring, innocent and talented. She can’t believe the success her books have and she hopes to continue to do well. She doesn’t want anyone to know her secret. She tries to keep her distant from Killian, because he is unlike any man she has ever met, but she can’t keep fighting the attraction.
I absolutely loved Kate and Killian as a couple. Kate and Killian both have pasts that they haven’t moved on from, but they will with the help from the other. Killian never pushes her and lets her decide when to tell something and that’s what Kate needs. Kate has high walls around her heart, but Killian will break them all down.
I was hooked after reading the prologue. Two pages was all I needed to want to never stop reading until I knew everything and reached the end. I love books where a main character is an author. I always hope to read more about that world and I got a glimpse. Kate is writing a book, but she is still insecure about her writing and her books even though she is a bestselling author. She will get some inspiration from Killian and I loved that!
I absolutely adored this book, just like I’ve adored every single book I’ve read by JL Berg. Fraud is sweet, hot, real, beautiful and emotional. I loved all the characters, the progress and what the book was about. I was always wondering what more there was to discover about the characters and how Kate would find out about what Killian wants to do.
I’m over the moon that there will be a book about Liam, especially after what happened. I need to know all his secrets.
-- My honest review is based on an advanced reader copy of this book. --
Killian is a journalist, until one piece gets him fired. He finds out Kate’s secret and thinks that writing a piece about her will safe his reputation. He wants to know more about Kate, but the better he gets to know her, the worse he feels about revealing her secret. He isn’t sure anymore about what he should do.
Kate and Killian are fantastic characters! I may not have liked what Killian wants to do, but I ended up falling hard for him. He’s passionate, sweet, caring, determined and charming. Journalism is his life, so he wants his job back and wants to do anything for it. Killian slowly changes after meeting Kate. He didn’t believe in love, but he slowly falls in love with Kate. He wants a future with her.
Kate is passionate, hardworking, caring, innocent and talented. She can’t believe the success her books have and she hopes to continue to do well. She doesn’t want anyone to know her secret. She tries to keep her distant from Killian, because he is unlike any man she has ever met, but she can’t keep fighting the attraction.
I absolutely loved Kate and Killian as a couple. Kate and Killian both have pasts that they haven’t moved on from, but they will with the help from the other. Killian never pushes her and lets her decide when to tell something and that’s what Kate needs. Kate has high walls around her heart, but Killian will break them all down.
I was hooked after reading the prologue. Two pages was all I needed to want to never stop reading until I knew everything and reached the end. I love books where a main character is an author. I always hope to read more about that world and I got a glimpse. Kate is writing a book, but she is still insecure about her writing and her books even though she is a bestselling author. She will get some inspiration from Killian and I loved that!
I absolutely adored this book, just like I’ve adored every single book I’ve read by JL Berg. Fraud is sweet, hot, real, beautiful and emotional. I loved all the characters, the progress and what the book was about. I was always wondering what more there was to discover about the characters and how Kate would find out about what Killian wants to do.
I’m over the moon that there will be a book about Liam, especially after what happened. I need to know all his secrets.
-- My honest review is based on an advanced reader copy of this book. --
May 7, 2017
3,7 stars!
March 7, 2018
Actually I am not sure why, but the dynamics of Fraud by J.L. Berg were different from the usual romance novel. It might be because the author spend a lot of the time in the head of the “villain” and his activities were not a secret to the reader. It was only a question WHEN not IF the victim would find out about the fraud.
I could totally relate to the female lead and her position and I really liked the way the character was developed.But even though the author spend this huge time with the “villain” I somehow could not feel anything for him.
He was a blank for me I could not even be angry with him and I guess the reason for that was that the reader knew from the very beginning everything that was going on.
It was like the whole plot was already laid bare from the beginning somehow, which was not bad and well told but it left no room for developments, which I felt was a shame as the story was really good.
I don’t know enough about the world of journalism to judge if what he did made any sense just that it reminded me really more of a stalker than a journalist. Not sure if I felt comfortable with that approach, I guess if I as the reader would not have gotten that look inside his head he would have given me shivers just seeing him creeping his way near to her.
And I am truly not sure how or when he fell for her and that is actually my biggest issue here. But well I have a certain feeling that this is only ME being the odd one out there and that most other readers will enjoy this plot as it is – so just ignore me will you #laughing
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May 1, 2017
4.5 Stars! - J.L. Berg delivers a vibrant, smart and utterly electric novel of self-discovery and learning to let go with Fraud. Fun, sexy and heartfelt, Kate and Killian’s story is entirely addictive and absolutely enchanting. I fell in love with this duo immediately, drawn to their seemingly opposite personalities and intrigued by their undeniably sizzling chemistry. J.L. Berg did a fantastic job at cultivating the connection between these two, quickly getting me hooked on their easy banter, adorable flirtations, sweet honesty and scorching hot interludes. Kate and Killian shared a push and pull that served to not only drive this story forward, but also pushed the characters to grow in truly beautiful ways over the course of their journey.
From the very beginning, Kate completely captivated me. I loved the dichotomy of this character so much – enjoying the sharp contrast between Kate and her author alter ego, Laura Stone. There was something so strange and yet entirely genuine about the way Kate explored her own dimensionality through her writing as Laura. I adored watching Kate let go of her insecurities and fears through Laura and then, with Killian’s encouragement and support, learn to spread her wings in the real world. Where Laura’s world was the stuff of great fiction, Kate’s was easy to relate to and emotionally accessible. I enjoyed experiencing both sides of Kate’s life in parallel, but admittedly, it was the unavoidable collision that totally thrilled me. The way Kate blossomed throughout this novel was simply stunning and I loved seeing this heroine fully come into her own.
If you’re looking for a swoon-worthy book boyfriend, then Killian certainly fits the bill. To be fair, it took me a few chapters to really warm up to this character. I was worried about his initially selfish behavior and the less than honorable intentions that brought him to Kate, but J.L. Berg easily changed my mind. I found myself melting over the way Killian so effortlessly accepted Kate for who she was and was moved by the restraint he demonstrated in regards to her story. His ability to admit when he was wrong and the respect he gave Kate throughout the book left me with no choice but to fall head over heels for Killian. Though his relationship with his brother and the pieces of his past that were revealed, J.L. Berg managed to humanize Killian in a way that allowed me to understand and even accept his initial conduct. By the time all was said and done, this hero had thoroughly swept me off my feet.
J.L. Berg’s writing is smart, witty and teeming with emotion - each page of this story evidence of the author’s incredible talent. J.L. Berg’s voice is friendly, familiar and relevant, delivering Kate and Killian’s journey with well-practiced ease and plenty of heart. Fraud was paced to be devoured and I found myself doing just that. I got lost in the colorful imagery, snappy dialogue and delightfully sassy moments that made this book absolutely sparkle. J.L. Berg filled out Kate and Killian’s world with some seriously fascinating (not to mention ball-busting) secondary characters and I can only hope we haven’t seen the last of Liam and Jane. Kate and Killian made for an unforgettable pair and J.L. Berg definitely didn’t disappoint with her newest novel. The perfect balance of sweet romance, fiery passion and an enthralling storyline, Fraud is the total package.
From the very beginning, Kate completely captivated me. I loved the dichotomy of this character so much – enjoying the sharp contrast between Kate and her author alter ego, Laura Stone. There was something so strange and yet entirely genuine about the way Kate explored her own dimensionality through her writing as Laura. I adored watching Kate let go of her insecurities and fears through Laura and then, with Killian’s encouragement and support, learn to spread her wings in the real world. Where Laura’s world was the stuff of great fiction, Kate’s was easy to relate to and emotionally accessible. I enjoyed experiencing both sides of Kate’s life in parallel, but admittedly, it was the unavoidable collision that totally thrilled me. The way Kate blossomed throughout this novel was simply stunning and I loved seeing this heroine fully come into her own.
If you’re looking for a swoon-worthy book boyfriend, then Killian certainly fits the bill. To be fair, it took me a few chapters to really warm up to this character. I was worried about his initially selfish behavior and the less than honorable intentions that brought him to Kate, but J.L. Berg easily changed my mind. I found myself melting over the way Killian so effortlessly accepted Kate for who she was and was moved by the restraint he demonstrated in regards to her story. His ability to admit when he was wrong and the respect he gave Kate throughout the book left me with no choice but to fall head over heels for Killian. Though his relationship with his brother and the pieces of his past that were revealed, J.L. Berg managed to humanize Killian in a way that allowed me to understand and even accept his initial conduct. By the time all was said and done, this hero had thoroughly swept me off my feet.
J.L. Berg’s writing is smart, witty and teeming with emotion - each page of this story evidence of the author’s incredible talent. J.L. Berg’s voice is friendly, familiar and relevant, delivering Kate and Killian’s journey with well-practiced ease and plenty of heart. Fraud was paced to be devoured and I found myself doing just that. I got lost in the colorful imagery, snappy dialogue and delightfully sassy moments that made this book absolutely sparkle. J.L. Berg filled out Kate and Killian’s world with some seriously fascinating (not to mention ball-busting) secondary characters and I can only hope we haven’t seen the last of Liam and Jane. Kate and Killian made for an unforgettable pair and J.L. Berg definitely didn’t disappoint with her newest novel. The perfect balance of sweet romance, fiery passion and an enthralling storyline, Fraud is the total package.
July 19, 2018
Late to the party on what I consider to be one of J.L. Berg's best. Just discovered it on Kindle Unlimited. A solid and enjoyable read from an author who knows how to spin a great tale. This book delivered the goods and included everything I was searching for: well-rounded and fleshed-out characters, emotional scenes, a great plot twist with an even flow and some hot and sexy as well.
The same old-same old got turned into something special. Complex characters who were hiding behind their own type of fraud. One a down on his luck journalist that had to work hard for my forgiveness, and the other an author so deserved a happily-ever-after just made it even more fun to read.
I’m ecstatic to know that Liam will get to tell the rest of his story. Leaving him hanging was disconcerting. Too many secrets rolling around in that guy’s head to leave hidden. Surprisingly, for me as a reader he was the most intriguing character in this book. And I wouldn’t be disappointed if Jane found her way into another storyline as well.
The same old-same old got turned into something special. Complex characters who were hiding behind their own type of fraud. One a down on his luck journalist that had to work hard for my forgiveness, and the other an author so deserved a happily-ever-after just made it even more fun to read.
I’m ecstatic to know that Liam will get to tell the rest of his story. Leaving him hanging was disconcerting. Too many secrets rolling around in that guy’s head to leave hidden. Surprisingly, for me as a reader he was the most intriguing character in this book. And I wouldn’t be disappointed if Jane found her way into another storyline as well.
May 2, 2017
This review was originally posted on Cocktails and Books
FRAUD had an interesting twist that kept me reading because I couldn't figure out what was going to happen between Killian and Kate, especially given the secrets both of them were keeping.
Kate was a woman who's life had been nothing more than her job and her best friend. Then she wrote a best-selling series and hid behind a pen name because she couldn't stop being the woman's life consisted of her job. But then she meets Killian. A man new in town who's questions and dates to get to know her crack through her shell and show her to what life could be like if she actually lived.
I liked both characters and I had to wonder how Killian's fraudulent activities were going to effect Kate when they finally came to light. She had lived in such a shell that I didn't want to see her revert back to the girl with only one true friend and a unfulfilling job. But in the time that she had been with Killian she learned how to have fun, to not be satisfied with eating her bowl of cereal and hiding from her past. Even when she was her angriest with Killian, she figured out how to face what happened in her past and face her fears. For that, I could forgive Killian almost anything.
Killian was his own special brand of screwed up. The whole reason he met Kate would normally make him instantly unlikeable (in my book). But as we got to know Killian, got more of his backstory and saw the effects Kate had on him, I knew Kate was going to change him as much as he did her. He realized he had to face everything that he was running from and understand that what he once saw as a weakness was what would turn his life around and give him everything he didn't know he wanted.
Another great book by JL Berg. She never disappoints me and manages to create characters that stick with you.
FRAUD had an interesting twist that kept me reading because I couldn't figure out what was going to happen between Killian and Kate, especially given the secrets both of them were keeping.
Kate was a woman who's life had been nothing more than her job and her best friend. Then she wrote a best-selling series and hid behind a pen name because she couldn't stop being the woman's life consisted of her job. But then she meets Killian. A man new in town who's questions and dates to get to know her crack through her shell and show her to what life could be like if she actually lived.
I liked both characters and I had to wonder how Killian's fraudulent activities were going to effect Kate when they finally came to light. She had lived in such a shell that I didn't want to see her revert back to the girl with only one true friend and a unfulfilling job. But in the time that she had been with Killian she learned how to have fun, to not be satisfied with eating her bowl of cereal and hiding from her past. Even when she was her angriest with Killian, she figured out how to face what happened in her past and face her fears. For that, I could forgive Killian almost anything.
Killian was his own special brand of screwed up. The whole reason he met Kate would normally make him instantly unlikeable (in my book). But as we got to know Killian, got more of his backstory and saw the effects Kate had on him, I knew Kate was going to change him as much as he did her. He realized he had to face everything that he was running from and understand that what he once saw as a weakness was what would turn his life around and give him everything he didn't know he wanted.
Another great book by JL Berg. She never disappoints me and manages to create characters that stick with you.
May 1, 2017
"When trust was broken, could a second chance truly exist?"
I truly enjoyed this! There's quite a bit that happens in this story. It's not just a story of deceit, but also of allowing yourself to move forward from your past. It's calculated and deceptive as well as emotional and touching.
I enjoyed Killian and Kate. I loved the buildup of their relationship and their witty banter kept me smiling. But what happens when you find out the person you've allowed yourself to trust in has been deceiving you all along? Killian and Kate's journey of self-discovery, forgiveness, and growth will leave you wanting more.
I'm excited to see we're getting Liam's story! I can't wait find out more about him.
I truly enjoyed this! There's quite a bit that happens in this story. It's not just a story of deceit, but also of allowing yourself to move forward from your past. It's calculated and deceptive as well as emotional and touching.
I enjoyed Killian and Kate. I loved the buildup of their relationship and their witty banter kept me smiling. But what happens when you find out the person you've allowed yourself to trust in has been deceiving you all along? Killian and Kate's journey of self-discovery, forgiveness, and growth will leave you wanting more.
I'm excited to see we're getting Liam's story! I can't wait find out more about him.
August 26, 2018
Kate O'Malley never dreamed that she would one day become the most sought-after author and that her story would become so popular that people would be wanting more adventures. You see Kate O'Malley worked at a university in the student finance offices and lived a boring virginal life. After her friend persuaded her to sign up for a creative writing course, she did and then she got her best friend who was in the publishing world to read it. What Kate didn't expect was to be blown away when her friend sent it to an editor who wanted to publish it. Now Kate O' Malley to the world is known as Laura Stone. An author who doesn't give interviews or show the world the real "her" as if they got to know who she really was - they would discover that she is a fraud. Journalist Killian Turner has just been fired from his job and sees this expose of the "real" Laura Stone as his way to redemption and his job back. He is one of the few who know her real identity. Can Killian track down Kate and expose her as Laura ? Or will he find himself falling in love with Kate ?
Find out in Fraud - by JL Berg today. This read is perfect for all those readers who love author romance stories and are thinking of having a non de plume themselves.
December 31, 2022
This was a good read. I am finding out that this author loves to write about the things I don’t always like in my books, but the writing is very good and I still appreciate the story. I didn’t like Killian at first. He was willing to ruin Kate without any remorse. He does redeem himself but I’m not a fan of a man like he was in the beginning. Overall, a good read.
Shelved as 'fuck-no-pass'
November 15, 2017what a load of shit.
June 28, 2017
This was another great read by JL Berg.
I loved the story and all the angst that came with it.
I loved the story and all the angst that came with it.
July 11, 2017
Loved!
I immediately felt a connection with Kate--I loved her inner voice especially, and wanted to be her new BFF and head Kate/Laura cheerleader--but Killian took a little more work. The first few chapters he narrated? I was not a fan. At all. But he slowly grew on me, and I have to admit the first-person POV probably helped out her a whole lot, and by the end even though I knew he'd made some huge, huge mistakes I really, really wanted him to be forgiven for them.
Ms. Berg has her work cut out with Killian's brother Liam, though, the upcoming hero of the next book--he's a great guy personally--I loved him and Killian together, and he provides a much-needed butt kicking when necessary--but he's got seriously loose morals and needs find something more--what's the word I'm looking for here? Oh, yes, legal to do with his impressive skill set. She does an excellent job here, because yeah, I need to know what he's been up to, but jeez, he's gonna take some work.
He's definitely no Killian. Or Kate, for that matter.
Of course, I may never look at cannoli the same again. Or chocolate chip ice cream. Or chocolate sauce...
Yikes. Must distract self by thinking about Liam's book a bit more... ;)
Rating: 4 1/2 stars / A-
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
I immediately felt a connection with Kate--I loved her inner voice especially, and wanted to be her new BFF and head Kate/Laura cheerleader--but Killian took a little more work. The first few chapters he narrated? I was not a fan. At all. But he slowly grew on me, and I have to admit the first-person POV probably helped out her a whole lot, and by the end even though I knew he'd made some huge, huge mistakes I really, really wanted him to be forgiven for them.
Ms. Berg has her work cut out with Killian's brother Liam, though, the upcoming hero of the next book--he's a great guy personally--I loved him and Killian together, and he provides a much-needed butt kicking when necessary--but he's got seriously loose morals and needs find something more--what's the word I'm looking for here? Oh, yes, legal to do with his impressive skill set. She does an excellent job here, because yeah, I need to know what he's been up to, but jeez, he's gonna take some work.
He's definitely no Killian. Or Kate, for that matter.
Of course, I may never look at cannoli the same again. Or chocolate chip ice cream. Or chocolate sauce...
Yikes. Must distract self by thinking about Liam's book a bit more... ;)
Rating: 4 1/2 stars / A-
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
May 10, 2017
The blurb intrigued me so when I started reading I didn't expect what I read and loved.
Killian plans to expose the worlds newest best selling author to get his journalistic career back on track, but what he didn't expect was to fall for the woman behind the book.
Thing aren't going well for Killian, while everything is going good for Kate, so when Killian shows up Kate finally gives in and is ready to date, but Killian is reluctant as he's keeping a secret, but when things get more serious will he be willing to forgo his career for love?
I loved both characters, both of whom are running from life and who they really are, but they unexpectedly find they can be real with each other, but once the secrets are revealed with they still want each other?
Killian plans to expose the worlds newest best selling author to get his journalistic career back on track, but what he didn't expect was to fall for the woman behind the book.
Thing aren't going well for Killian, while everything is going good for Kate, so when Killian shows up Kate finally gives in and is ready to date, but Killian is reluctant as he's keeping a secret, but when things get more serious will he be willing to forgo his career for love?
I loved both characters, both of whom are running from life and who they really are, but they unexpectedly find they can be real with each other, but once the secrets are revealed with they still want each other?
November 12, 2017
I found FRAUD to be an enjoyable read, as I knew it would because it was written by J.L. Berg.
I have been a fan of her books since the very beginning and she has yet to disappoint me. Yes there are some books I enjoy more than others but every one of her books I would recommend to everyone.
Fraud is one of those books that I enjoyed but it wasn't my favorite. I had trouble connecting with Killian for most of the book. This book was going to be a 3.5 stars for me but the second half of the story really grabbed a hold of me and I was able to give it 4 stars. I felt the connection between Killian and Kate a lot more as the story went on. I did think the ended was a little rushed. I thought Kate was a little too forgiving....I wanted her to make Killian work a little harder to gain her trust and forgiveness.
I found the storyline fun and entertaining. I have often wondered about this very subject as I have read books I know that are written under a pen name. Is it feasible to live two separate lives?? Can someone be two different people and not have those lives intersect each other?? Well this book will give you those answers.
I would recommend this book to everyone who likes an entertaining read with not a lot of drama, but enough emotion and angst to keep you gripping the pages.
I have been a fan of her books since the very beginning and she has yet to disappoint me. Yes there are some books I enjoy more than others but every one of her books I would recommend to everyone.
Fraud is one of those books that I enjoyed but it wasn't my favorite. I had trouble connecting with Killian for most of the book. This book was going to be a 3.5 stars for me but the second half of the story really grabbed a hold of me and I was able to give it 4 stars. I felt the connection between Killian and Kate a lot more as the story went on. I did think the ended was a little rushed. I thought Kate was a little too forgiving....I wanted her to make Killian work a little harder to gain her trust and forgiveness.
I found the storyline fun and entertaining. I have often wondered about this very subject as I have read books I know that are written under a pen name. Is it feasible to live two separate lives?? Can someone be two different people and not have those lives intersect each other?? Well this book will give you those answers.
I would recommend this book to everyone who likes an entertaining read with not a lot of drama, but enough emotion and angst to keep you gripping the pages.
May 16, 2017
Fraud is a sexy standalone that deals with the love life of a famous author that hides behind her pen name.
Katelyn O’Malley is a loan processor that works in a college. She’s kind of a loaner and hides from the world behind books and writing. Her best friend, Jane, happens to be the only family she has and encourages her to publish her novel. Kate soon becomes a smashing success as an author, and while as Laura Stone has an aura of sexiness and sexuality, Kate is portrait as nothing more than a sweet and innocent (very innocent) girl.
You can read the complete review by visiting my blog
I read this book in one sit. I enjoy it, it made me laugh, it made me upset and I wanted to slap Killian and Liam a couple of times. I totally identified myself with Kate, she’s reserved and shy, but her relationship with Killian helps her bloom into the woman she wanted to be. Kate and Killian deserve to be together. They’re better people when they’re together, not only as a couple but individually. I really enjoyed their story.
“They were all settle with kids of various ages, and I was… well, I had a cat.”
Katelyn O’Malley is a loan processor that works in a college. She’s kind of a loaner and hides from the world behind books and writing. Her best friend, Jane, happens to be the only family she has and encourages her to publish her novel. Kate soon becomes a smashing success as an author, and while as Laura Stone has an aura of sexiness and sexuality, Kate is portrait as nothing more than a sweet and innocent (very innocent) girl.
You can read the complete review by visiting my blog
I read this book in one sit. I enjoy it, it made me laugh, it made me upset and I wanted to slap Killian and Liam a couple of times. I totally identified myself with Kate, she’s reserved and shy, but her relationship with Killian helps her bloom into the woman she wanted to be. Kate and Killian deserve to be together. They’re better people when they’re together, not only as a couple but individually. I really enjoyed their story.
May 2, 2017
By almost any measure, Katelyn O'Malley, Kate to her friends and co-workers, Laura Stone to her readers, has got it made. Her first novel has been riding high at the top of the bestsellers charts for the last month, already prompting speculation about movie and/or TV series adaptations. Her second novel is already finished and she's well into writing her third.
She doesn't FEEL like she's bestselling author Laura Stone though. To her, she still very much feels like the plain and simple Kate that she's always been. The same one who's early to work every day, never takes a day off, only these days, ever since she took a creative writing course, she sneaks off during her lunch break to write more words.
Maybe someday she'll be able to forego the anonymity her nom de plume affords her and embrace the celebrity status, but today isn't that day.
Down on his luck journalist Killian Turner has a lead on the story of the year though, the identity of the woman behind the name Laura Stone. To restore his name and reputation though he needs more than just a name, he needs the story behind the name, and he's determined to get it by any means necessary.
I confess I didn't even read the blurb before diving headfirst into this book. I've read most everything by J.L. Berg and am yet to be disappointed, so I figured 'why not?'
What I found were two leading characters that couldn't be more different. Killian is hardened, driven, bitter and determined to get back to the top. Kate, by contrast, is somewhat reclusive, yet within the normal boundaries of her routine, warm, responsible and caring.
Fraud is a story where the secrets people keep form a central theme, and most of the main characters are holding theirs close, including Kate's best friend and literary agent Jane, and Killian's genius hacker of a little brother Liam.
That said, perhaps the most compelling aspect was the way in which, despite the huge lies and secrets between them, the little truths that are shared tentatively between our hero and heroine build a relationship that is totally unexpected, and surprising restorative.
Told with an elegant grace, this first person dual point of view romance has its share of humor and a liberal helping of heartache, subterfuge and a hint of mystery.
Ultimately I was left with the singular thought ... she's done it again.
She doesn't FEEL like she's bestselling author Laura Stone though. To her, she still very much feels like the plain and simple Kate that she's always been. The same one who's early to work every day, never takes a day off, only these days, ever since she took a creative writing course, she sneaks off during her lunch break to write more words.
Maybe someday she'll be able to forego the anonymity her nom de plume affords her and embrace the celebrity status, but today isn't that day.
Down on his luck journalist Killian Turner has a lead on the story of the year though, the identity of the woman behind the name Laura Stone. To restore his name and reputation though he needs more than just a name, he needs the story behind the name, and he's determined to get it by any means necessary.
I confess I didn't even read the blurb before diving headfirst into this book. I've read most everything by J.L. Berg and am yet to be disappointed, so I figured 'why not?'
What I found were two leading characters that couldn't be more different. Killian is hardened, driven, bitter and determined to get back to the top. Kate, by contrast, is somewhat reclusive, yet within the normal boundaries of her routine, warm, responsible and caring.
Fraud is a story where the secrets people keep form a central theme, and most of the main characters are holding theirs close, including Kate's best friend and literary agent Jane, and Killian's genius hacker of a little brother Liam.
That said, perhaps the most compelling aspect was the way in which, despite the huge lies and secrets between them, the little truths that are shared tentatively between our hero and heroine build a relationship that is totally unexpected, and surprising restorative.
Told with an elegant grace, this first person dual point of view romance has its share of humor and a liberal helping of heartache, subterfuge and a hint of mystery.
Ultimately I was left with the singular thought ... she's done it again.
April 28, 2017
"It wasn’t just a job.
It was my way back to the top.
After losing my position as a journalist for one of the biggest news publications in the world, I knew I’d do anything to get it back.
Even if it meant breaking a few hearts to get there.
She was the hottest author in the country. Known only by a pen name, there wasn’t a person alive who wasn’t dying to discover her true identity.
And I’d figured it out.
Her real name was Kate O’Malley and not only did I plan on finding her, but I fully intended on learning every dirty secret she had and exploiting it for my own gain.
But I underestimated my prey.
I didn’t anticipate how her words would intoxicate me, or how the curves of her body would consume me.
I never meant to fall in love.
And now I had a choice to make.
Do I give up everything for the woman I set out to destroy, or walk away, making me the biggest fraud of all"
This book was told by both characters. Killian has just lost his job. But when he sees the girl who he is with cheating on him after he lost his job he takes a piece of information about a secret writer from her that would make her career boom and he decides to use that information to get his career back and destroy the writer at the same time by going public with her secret. But when he actually meets this girl he did not plan on falling in love with her.
Kate O'Malley is leading a double life. One job she is a Loan worker at the college and the other job she is a secret romance erotic book writer. Everyone loves her books but she is the complete opposite of what her books portray as who she would be. Her biggest secret other than who she is, is that she is a Virgin. But when she meets Killian all she knows about him is what he has told her and not the fact that he is out to destroy her.
The sheets actually starts heating up and the chemistry between these two become amazing and than feeling get involved. But when the truth comes out can they both overcome it or will this deception be to big for either of them to overcome.
This story was wonderful. I loved the different points of view and the characters. They are so different from other books.
This arc was kindly given in exchange for an honest review
It was my way back to the top.
After losing my position as a journalist for one of the biggest news publications in the world, I knew I’d do anything to get it back.
Even if it meant breaking a few hearts to get there.
She was the hottest author in the country. Known only by a pen name, there wasn’t a person alive who wasn’t dying to discover her true identity.
And I’d figured it out.
Her real name was Kate O’Malley and not only did I plan on finding her, but I fully intended on learning every dirty secret she had and exploiting it for my own gain.
But I underestimated my prey.
I didn’t anticipate how her words would intoxicate me, or how the curves of her body would consume me.
I never meant to fall in love.
And now I had a choice to make.
Do I give up everything for the woman I set out to destroy, or walk away, making me the biggest fraud of all"
This book was told by both characters. Killian has just lost his job. But when he sees the girl who he is with cheating on him after he lost his job he takes a piece of information about a secret writer from her that would make her career boom and he decides to use that information to get his career back and destroy the writer at the same time by going public with her secret. But when he actually meets this girl he did not plan on falling in love with her.
Kate O'Malley is leading a double life. One job she is a Loan worker at the college and the other job she is a secret romance erotic book writer. Everyone loves her books but she is the complete opposite of what her books portray as who she would be. Her biggest secret other than who she is, is that she is a Virgin. But when she meets Killian all she knows about him is what he has told her and not the fact that he is out to destroy her.
The sheets actually starts heating up and the chemistry between these two become amazing and than feeling get involved. But when the truth comes out can they both overcome it or will this deception be to big for either of them to overcome.
This story was wonderful. I loved the different points of view and the characters. They are so different from other books.
This arc was kindly given in exchange for an honest review
May 16, 2017
J.L. Berg tore me up with her novel Within These Walls. I was excited to read Fraud and was not disappointed. I loved the idea of the shy, quiet girl being behind the hottest book around…
My real name is Kate O’Malley, but you, the world at large, probably know me best as Laura Stone.
Yes, that Laura Stone.
I am the mastermind behind The Scandal Chronicle-the best-selling erotic thriller series that you have secretly read and loved but tell everyone you hate because you are above that.
I’m in!!! Kate is awesome! Although she is shy, quiet and self-proclaimed “boring” she is also so much more. Kate is loyal and kind. Loving and insecure. I found her to be genuine and caring. Kate has become very secluded from life after her parents died in a plane crash while she was a sophomore in college. She has her best friend Jane who of course is the opposite- loud and crazy!
Kate became inspired after taking a writing class at the local community college. She had always written in journals, diaries and on napkins. She became consumed with writing and the byproduct was The Scandal Series.
Along comes Killian Turner. Successful journalist with his own column in one of the top newspapers in the countries. Pushing boundaries until he pushed too far…
…after a year of trying to make it on my own, I was at my wits’ end. I was penniless with no prospects of employment, and I was the laughingstock of my profession.
Finding himself desperate, Killian tracks down the shy and reclusive “Laura Stone”. At first he wants to expose her and make a name for himself again in the world of journalism, but things don’t always go as planned.
I needed to get back in the game.
And this was my way back in.
I loved the journey that both Kate and Killian took. They discovered the similarities in their pasts and they helped each other to heal. The sexy time was hot! There is also the mysterious Liam, Killian’s brother and of course Jane, Kate’s best friend. This was a sexy, fun read. Can’t wait to read Liam’s story!
4 stars
My real name is Kate O’Malley, but you, the world at large, probably know me best as Laura Stone.
Yes, that Laura Stone.
I am the mastermind behind The Scandal Chronicle-the best-selling erotic thriller series that you have secretly read and loved but tell everyone you hate because you are above that.
I’m in!!! Kate is awesome! Although she is shy, quiet and self-proclaimed “boring” she is also so much more. Kate is loyal and kind. Loving and insecure. I found her to be genuine and caring. Kate has become very secluded from life after her parents died in a plane crash while she was a sophomore in college. She has her best friend Jane who of course is the opposite- loud and crazy!
Kate became inspired after taking a writing class at the local community college. She had always written in journals, diaries and on napkins. She became consumed with writing and the byproduct was The Scandal Series.
Along comes Killian Turner. Successful journalist with his own column in one of the top newspapers in the countries. Pushing boundaries until he pushed too far…
…after a year of trying to make it on my own, I was at my wits’ end. I was penniless with no prospects of employment, and I was the laughingstock of my profession.
Finding himself desperate, Killian tracks down the shy and reclusive “Laura Stone”. At first he wants to expose her and make a name for himself again in the world of journalism, but things don’t always go as planned.
I needed to get back in the game.
And this was my way back in.
I loved the journey that both Kate and Killian took. They discovered the similarities in their pasts and they helped each other to heal. The sexy time was hot! There is also the mysterious Liam, Killian’s brother and of course Jane, Kate’s best friend. This was a sexy, fun read. Can’t wait to read Liam’s story!
4 stars
May 4, 2017
4.5 Stars
J.L. has another smashing hit to add to her list. Fraud is definitely a swoon-worthy read and will leave you smiling for days.
I love the Prologue in this book - it starts the book off on the right vibe and has you riding this euphoric wave throughout the whole book. There were times that my smile got turned upside down because Killian is a slight douche, but overall, I was nothing but a smiling fool.
Kate is a loan processor at the local community college that she herself attended at one time. She has pretty much kept to herself most of her life since her parents passed away. Jane is the only person who never allowed Kate to push away. And Jane is also the only one he knows her darkest secret - she's the woman behind the hot and sexy newest book on the market.
Killian is a journalist, a very popular one at that. So popular that his most recent article gets him fired and pretty much blacklisted. He's determined to get himself back in the game, at any cost.
I love Kate and Killian's story. It took me a little bit to warm up to Killian, but he slowly won me over. Kate, I love that girl. She comes across so sweet and innocent and she is, to a degree. But I love that she has no problems coming out of her shell and learning new things - becoming the person she wants to be.
The secondary characters definitely help round out this book. Jane, Liam and Amy all play great parts in this story and add their flair to it. I really hope we have not seen the last of Jane or Amy because I know the next book is about Liam (and I can't wait to read that one!!).
I really enjoyed this book. The characters have their own flaws and both grow not only together but as individuals. I enjoyed the whole story line and how everything played out. A perfect summer read. Now bring on Liam's book!!
J.L. has another smashing hit to add to her list. Fraud is definitely a swoon-worthy read and will leave you smiling for days.
I love the Prologue in this book - it starts the book off on the right vibe and has you riding this euphoric wave throughout the whole book. There were times that my smile got turned upside down because Killian is a slight douche, but overall, I was nothing but a smiling fool.
Kate is a loan processor at the local community college that she herself attended at one time. She has pretty much kept to herself most of her life since her parents passed away. Jane is the only person who never allowed Kate to push away. And Jane is also the only one he knows her darkest secret - she's the woman behind the hot and sexy newest book on the market.
Killian is a journalist, a very popular one at that. So popular that his most recent article gets him fired and pretty much blacklisted. He's determined to get himself back in the game, at any cost.
I love Kate and Killian's story. It took me a little bit to warm up to Killian, but he slowly won me over. Kate, I love that girl. She comes across so sweet and innocent and she is, to a degree. But I love that she has no problems coming out of her shell and learning new things - becoming the person she wants to be.
The secondary characters definitely help round out this book. Jane, Liam and Amy all play great parts in this story and add their flair to it. I really hope we have not seen the last of Jane or Amy because I know the next book is about Liam (and I can't wait to read that one!!).
I really enjoyed this book. The characters have their own flaws and both grow not only together but as individuals. I enjoyed the whole story line and how everything played out. A perfect summer read. Now bring on Liam's book!!
May 12, 2017
I fell hard for Everly and August from J. L. Berg's Lost and Found series, and then fell deeper for Roman in Behind Closed Doors. So when Fraud became available I just knew that I had to prepare myself for another amazing story. It wasn't long before I was completely immersed in Kate and Killian's secrets and entangled in their desire for one another. If ever there was a train wreck that you could see coming but hoped for a better outcome it is these two.
Kate O'Malley is an absolutely fascinating character with her many layers of insecurities, innocence, and fear of success. She is brilliant, beautiful and completely unaware of her sex appeal. I see why Killian was drawn to this timid, introvert who is a secret rock star of the fiction world. I loved seeing her let her hair down and come out of her shell and discover so much about herself while trying to keep her shroud of anonymity surrounding her.
Killian Townes had me just as intrigued and enamored with his shrewd journalist skills and his never ending war with his ever growing conscious and love for Kate. He is a hero that you have to dig a little deeper to understand and get to know, so it was a gradual infatuation that soon had me developing full blown feelings for yet another of J. L. Berg's hotties.
J. L. Berg brings out all the drama and angst and wraps it up in a nice little bow of combustible passion that no romance reader could ever resist. I highly recommend Fraud for a love story with plenty of tug of war with emotions and heat to keep your toes curled and your imagination thrumming with steamy images! J. L. Berg doesn't just write sexy, she writes multi faceted characters and story lines that draw you in and keep you entertained for hours.
Kate O'Malley is an absolutely fascinating character with her many layers of insecurities, innocence, and fear of success. She is brilliant, beautiful and completely unaware of her sex appeal. I see why Killian was drawn to this timid, introvert who is a secret rock star of the fiction world. I loved seeing her let her hair down and come out of her shell and discover so much about herself while trying to keep her shroud of anonymity surrounding her.
Killian Townes had me just as intrigued and enamored with his shrewd journalist skills and his never ending war with his ever growing conscious and love for Kate. He is a hero that you have to dig a little deeper to understand and get to know, so it was a gradual infatuation that soon had me developing full blown feelings for yet another of J. L. Berg's hotties.
J. L. Berg brings out all the drama and angst and wraps it up in a nice little bow of combustible passion that no romance reader could ever resist. I highly recommend Fraud for a love story with plenty of tug of war with emotions and heat to keep your toes curled and your imagination thrumming with steamy images! J. L. Berg doesn't just write sexy, she writes multi faceted characters and story lines that draw you in and keep you entertained for hours.
May 11, 2017
Killian, in the beginning, is not the most likable of characters. He's full of himself, full of his fame, and high on his own talent. However, he shoots himself in the proverbial foot and has to start over from square one with his career. He's a user. That's the best way to describe him, and he made me angry from the beginning. I was practically yelling at the book when he pushed himself into Kate's quiet, private life.
As a reader, I knew what he had planned, and that kind of ruined it for me. At first. I was hoping there'd be more mystery and buildup to the fraud, but once Killian got rolling and insinuated himself into Kate's life, I found it interesting to watch him try to be a nice guy. He actually found himself trying to win Kate over and in the process, he won me over.
Kate, who's pen name is synonymous with hot, steamy sex.... and is the exact opposite of Kate herself. Laura Stone writes about things most women fantasize about and can't get enough of when they read her books, but no one knows who she is; except Killian of course who is now in over his head. He's falling for Kate and doesn't know if he should tell her the truth or ride out the rollercoaster he's trapped on, that is until his brother throws a wrench in his plans.
I enjoyed the twists and turns of the story, and even knowing more than the antagonist became less of an issue. Great story and fun characters. Worth the read and you'll have to decide for yourself is Killian is redeemable.
As a reader, I knew what he had planned, and that kind of ruined it for me. At first. I was hoping there'd be more mystery and buildup to the fraud, but once Killian got rolling and insinuated himself into Kate's life, I found it interesting to watch him try to be a nice guy. He actually found himself trying to win Kate over and in the process, he won me over.
Kate, who's pen name is synonymous with hot, steamy sex.... and is the exact opposite of Kate herself. Laura Stone writes about things most women fantasize about and can't get enough of when they read her books, but no one knows who she is; except Killian of course who is now in over his head. He's falling for Kate and doesn't know if he should tell her the truth or ride out the rollercoaster he's trapped on, that is until his brother throws a wrench in his plans.
I enjoyed the twists and turns of the story, and even knowing more than the antagonist became less of an issue. Great story and fun characters. Worth the read and you'll have to decide for yourself is Killian is redeemable.
May 3, 2017
I was really excited to finally read a new J.L. Berg’s book and Fraud sounded promising from the blurb only. The book started a little too slow in my opinion, but once the story was well installed, I really enjoyed it.
Kate is a new author making sensation under a pen name and nobody except her best friend / agent knows her real identity. Killian, a journalist in search of the next big scoop to help his failing career, tracks her down after discovering the truth. He has a deceiving scheme planned to get to know her secrets, but nothing goes as expected when he meets her face to face and he feels an amazing connection to her.
I enjoyed the way Kate and Killian are together. Kate is very shy, but with Killian she seems to be comfortable and open up to him. I liked that Killian realized very early after meeting her that he can’t go with his insincere plan. But the longer he keeps hiding his true motives, the harder he falls for Kate and makes it more difficult to reveal his truths. With the intensity of their relationship always growing, I was anxious to read the part when the verity about Killian’s fraud would come to light.
J.L. Berg wrote here a sweet and charming story with a plotline that kept me entertained.
** ARC received in exchange for an honest review **
Kate is a new author making sensation under a pen name and nobody except her best friend / agent knows her real identity. Killian, a journalist in search of the next big scoop to help his failing career, tracks her down after discovering the truth. He has a deceiving scheme planned to get to know her secrets, but nothing goes as expected when he meets her face to face and he feels an amazing connection to her.
I enjoyed the way Kate and Killian are together. Kate is very shy, but with Killian she seems to be comfortable and open up to him. I liked that Killian realized very early after meeting her that he can’t go with his insincere plan. But the longer he keeps hiding his true motives, the harder he falls for Kate and makes it more difficult to reveal his truths. With the intensity of their relationship always growing, I was anxious to read the part when the verity about Killian’s fraud would come to light.
J.L. Berg wrote here a sweet and charming story with a plotline that kept me entertained.
** ARC received in exchange for an honest review **
May 25, 2017
Loved it! What a different kind of love story! Kate is so funny and innocent until Killian brings out the wild side.
Fraud is a book that is romantic, HOT, steamy, and downright hilarious! However, the story line was so new and refreshing I devoured it so quickly. I couldn’t wait to see how all this was going to turn around so Kate could have everything from the career she truly deserved along with the man she truly wants. I mean who wouldn’t want to be that secret romance writer who hits it big with your first book. This book was so funny how everyone was chasing down the writer who had to be some wild party girl – after all who could have written such an erotic tale of love and lust; definitely not the young, quiet virgin who worked as a college finance assistant.
Poor Kate doesn’t want any attention or recognition for her book but that’s exactly what’s about to come her way or can she keep hiding behind that sweet innocent smile. I have only read two of J.L. Berg’s books and those two are as different as night and day. But they do have things in common – he ability to keep me glued to the pages with her unexpected stories and her characters that you love from the moment they hit the page. I enjoy J.L. Berg’s writing and can’t wait to see what she has in store for us next.
Fraud is a book that is romantic, HOT, steamy, and downright hilarious! However, the story line was so new and refreshing I devoured it so quickly. I couldn’t wait to see how all this was going to turn around so Kate could have everything from the career she truly deserved along with the man she truly wants. I mean who wouldn’t want to be that secret romance writer who hits it big with your first book. This book was so funny how everyone was chasing down the writer who had to be some wild party girl – after all who could have written such an erotic tale of love and lust; definitely not the young, quiet virgin who worked as a college finance assistant.
Poor Kate doesn’t want any attention or recognition for her book but that’s exactly what’s about to come her way or can she keep hiding behind that sweet innocent smile. I have only read two of J.L. Berg’s books and those two are as different as night and day. But they do have things in common – he ability to keep me glued to the pages with her unexpected stories and her characters that you love from the moment they hit the page. I enjoy J.L. Berg’s writing and can’t wait to see what she has in store for us next.
May 8, 2017
I waffled back and forth between liking this book and really liking this book. In the end, I had to give it 3.5 stars. Not because I didn't think the premise was good - it was! Getting to know Kate was a heck of a lot of fun. She was a woman hiding in plain sight and watching as she learned to claim her life was quite the interesting journey. Though I wanted her best friend, Jane, to rub off on her more, I think she did well for herself.
The male love interest Killian started out interestingly. His storyline initially threw me for a loop and I kept trying to guess how he would fit with Kate (I love when a storyline is so predictable). While I did like how Berg made him grapple with his emotions and inner-good guy (I love the good guys), his evolution felt a little abrupt to me. Add in the very limited information about his brother Liam and I found myself going on thought tangents about "Would Killian really do this?" or "What is Liam doing?" These tangents were so distracting to me in the end that I felt that I lost touch with the characters a bit.
Overall, I enjoyed the writing and the story. I would certainly read and review this author again. I think a reader who doesn't get wrapped around the axel on tangents like this will enjoy this book.
The male love interest Killian started out interestingly. His storyline initially threw me for a loop and I kept trying to guess how he would fit with Kate (I love when a storyline is so predictable). While I did like how Berg made him grapple with his emotions and inner-good guy (I love the good guys), his evolution felt a little abrupt to me. Add in the very limited information about his brother Liam and I found myself going on thought tangents about "Would Killian really do this?" or "What is Liam doing?" These tangents were so distracting to me in the end that I felt that I lost touch with the characters a bit.
Overall, I enjoyed the writing and the story. I would certainly read and review this author again. I think a reader who doesn't get wrapped around the axel on tangents like this will enjoy this book.
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