Intricate Deceptions

So far this year I have read two books that dabbled in the topic of sex trafficking or human trafficking Las Hermanas by Raedene Jeannette Melin and Intricate Deceptions (Intricate, #1) by Jennifer Rayes. While the former doesn't do a deep dive on this horrific subject it does maintain a particular flow that doesn't feel jarring, in the case of Intricate Deceptions (Intricate, #1) the author first few chapters of Gaia being kidnapped by human traffickers which is heart-pounding writing, stress for the character and a child named Emily. Right along with Gaia, I am puzzled afraid for her and Emily, the author hooked me and then a rescue? And then a "Princess Romance" ?? I wrongly foreshadow and felt the author had something compelling to read and expose something to the world about the horrors of human trafficking.The tonal shift from something horrid to "a princess needing to be rescued and also has amnesia, remains a sticking point for me, while you may say this plot device is cliché I disagree, just like quicksand it is not really used these days. If Jennifer Rayes had introduced Gaia and the impending doom of Emily in a more light-hearted way, I would have enjoyed the rest of the book without thinking about child raped, sexual slavery, exploitation of minors, and bracing myself for some hard-stuff. Gaia herself does a lot and moves from plot point to another plot point at times it works, and at times you want to spend more time with the Gaia and flesh out her rescuer Prince Raoul. I will praise the action and the romantic hijinks, the royal families and pirates give Intricate Deceptions more depth.I rate this 3. 5 Stars or out of 5 a dark beginning with some serious potential. On the positive side, I can see a different opening for this book perhaps gear more towards "Young Adult" readers, while I am underwhelmed on the writer's decision on using human trafficking to introduce her main character, and I also see her gift for writing romantic plot points and fun characters and action.

Intricate Deceptions. Wow! This book had me captivated. I couldn't put the book down. I enjoyed this book! There was so much drama. Gaia was a woman caught and sold by a human trafficking organization. Prince Raoul came to her rescue because he knew who she was and needed her help, unfortunately, she was kidnapped from the palace by a pirate to take her back home. Once home, she encounters more problems and the secrets start to unravel. This is a must read! Be aware there is a huge cliffhanger. I can't wait for the next book. *** I voluntarily read a Review Copy of this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else’s. ***

I have never written a review on amazing, although I have read hundredsI would rate this book 10 stars if that were possible.I am not very fond of series books but after Intricate Deceptions, I'm eagerly waiting for the next book to come out.I would describe this book as one that tackles real life issues, sex trafficking, child abuse, romance, and a strong-willed Gaia!I fell in love with the story and characters. If you are looking for a book to sink your teeth into this is the one for you.I loved that it was never slow and always had me on the edge waiting to see what will happen to the beautiful, charismatic and resilient Gaia. I finished this book in a day and a half and can honestly say I CAN'T wait to read the second book.Gaia amazed me with her kindness and innocence as well as her strength and ability to withstand her very difficult obstacles. When reading this book I wished I could be her, get captured and rescued by gorgeous men that would go to huge lengths in protecting her. At the same time I admired how the author made it so easy to forget reality and delve into the adventures of Gaia. The writers skill in description is impeccable. Jennifer Rayes, Your book was one of the best that I have read in a while. Phenomenal!

I got that book for a number of reasons, but I was very pleasantly surprised as I found myself unable to set it down. It has been a long time that a novel grabbed me like this and I thoroughly enjoyed it.I also found author offering her real life dog a cameo role to be charming and an indication that she is not only in control, but seems to enjoy her craft.I really looking forward to the next installment as this one ended on a cliff hanger.

Well written. Couldn't put it down. Intrigue and suspense. Sad with ending. Wanting answered. Wanted to read more. Can't wait t o get second book. And I want a happy ending for gaia

Very Interesting book - fast paced with lots action ... it deals with underlying social problems such as human trafficking while maintaining a positive outlook ... i really enjoyed this light read

Excellent book- Intriguing!

This is the first book I have rated it kept my interest all the way to the end it left me wanting to know more