Review: The Deceivers by Kristen Simmons

Review: The Deceivers by Kristen Simmons

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Welcome to my stop along the tour for The Deceivers by Kristen Simmons! This incredible new contemporary series is going to be one that you are going to want to read this winter. Keep reading to learn more about the book.

Review: The Deceivers by Kristen SimmonsTitle: The Deceivers (Vale Hall #1)
Series: Vale Hall #1
Author: Kristen Simmons
Publisher: Tor Teen
Genres: Contemporary, Young Adult Fiction
Publication Date: February 5, 2019
Rating: four-stars
Series Rating: four-stars

Summary (from Goodreads):

Pretty Little Liars meets Ocean's 11 in this intrigue-filled contemporary drama from acclaimed author Kristen Simmons.

Welcome to Vale Hall, the school for aspiring con artists.

When Brynn Hilder is recruited to Vale, it seems like the elite academy is her chance to start over, away from her mom's loser boyfriend and her rundown neighborhood. But she soon learns that Vale chooses students not so much for their scholastic talent as for their extracurricular activities, such as her time spent conning rich North Shore kids out of their extravagant allowances.

At first, Brynn jumps at the chance to help the school in its mission to rid the city of corrupt officials--because what could be better than giving entitled jerks what they deserve? But that's before she meets her mark--a senator's son--and before she discovers the school's headmaster has secrets he'll stop at nothing to protect. As the lines between right and wrong blur, Brynn begins to realize she's in way over head.

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❃ I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. ❃


Review: The Deceivers by Kristen Simmons

The Deceivers by Kristen Simmons is the kind of book I knew I would enjoy the second I read the summary. For starters, the story is about a school for con artists and is filled with secrecy. I especially the unique and twisty plot and the strong main character. Fans of Ally Carter will definitely enjoy this suspenseful drama.

❀ Suspenseful and Complex

This book tells the story of a mysterious school of elites which is actually grounds for creating young con artists. For Brynn, acceptance into Vale Hall is a dream come true and the chance to escape her mom’s drug dealer boyfriend. I enjoyed reading about the assignments given to Brynn and the students and the plot twists throughout the book. There is so much action as secrets are uncovered and obstacles from Brynn’s old life arise. Ultimately, this is a suspenseful and complex book that raises the question of morality.

❀ Well-Developed Characters

I enjoyed Brynn’s character and her strength. She is intelligent and has the sense to weigh the pros and cons of her assignments at Vale Hall. She also doesn’t back down from a challenge and commits to her tasks 100%. I enjoyed how she has some street smarts as well thanks to her mom’s boyfriend, but also how she doesn’t complain about her life before the school. The side characters and Brynn’s acquaintances at the school are also well-developed and have their own skills.

❀ Fast-Paced

The Deceivers by Kristen Simmons is a fast-paced novel filled with secrecy. I loved the original school for con artists and the clever main character. I am excited to see what other deceptions will be occur in the sequel.


Praise for THE DECEIVERS

“Brilliantly plotted, tightly paced, and intensely smart. The Deceivers is the perfect con, full of clever characters, untrustworthy romance, and lie after lie after lie, with just enough truth tossed in to make you question everything. Kristen Simmons is a deceptive genius. I could not devour this book fast enough.” —Stephanie Garber, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Caraval

About Kristen Simmons

Image of Kristen Simmons
KRISTEN SIMMONS is the author of the ARTICLE 5 series, THE GLASS ARROW, and METALTOWN. She has worked with survivors of abuse and trauma as a mental health therapist, taught Jazzercise in five states, and is forever in search of the next best cupcake. Currently she lives in Cincinnati, Ohio with her husband, where she spends her days supporting the caffeine industry and chasing her delightfully rambunctious son.
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About The Candid Cover

Olivia ❀ Canadian YA book blogger, Starbucks lover, & professional bibliophile.

14 thoughts on “Review: The Deceivers by Kristen Simmons

  1. Beware Of The Reader says:

    Oooh I love the sound of this one! It’s been a long time since I’ve read her books but now I want to get back to them 🙂

  2. JennRenee says:

    I have just started this one. I am enjoying it so far. Althought I am not very far but I can see its going to be quite the ride. Happy to hear you really enjoyed it.

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