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Bestselling author Staci Hart brings you an addictive romantic mythology series where love is the ultimate game, and Aphrodite always wins.

She’s everything I want, and she can never be mine.

I thought my heart was too mangled to love.

I thought my soul was too sullied to touch something so pure.

I thought I knew myself. But the truth is that it’s all a lie, and she’s the only one who can save me from myself.

But I don’t deserve her.

And she can never be mine, no matter how much I need her.

*This rockstar romance novel, formerly titled Deer in Headlights, has been rewritten and reedited for your enjoyment.

299 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 10, 2013

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About the author

Staci Hart

48 books6,171 followers
I was the kid who stayed inside to read.

As a four-eyed nerd with a bad perm, I was no one’s dodgeball pick, but I had a lot of friends. Frodo and Bilbo, for instance. Kristy, Stacey, Claudia and the gang (iykyk). Once, in the third grade, I wrote a teen murder mystery inspired by Christopher Pike. On solving my mystery in twelve pages, I decided I was a terrible writer and should never, ever do that again.

Fortunately, I didn’t take my own advice.

I write romance for that feeling you get at the end, like you’re standing on top of a mountain with a backpack full of hundred dollar bills. I write romcoms because is there anything better than banter and grand gestures? I write because I love to create and I love words. I love books, and I love stretching my imagination. I love love, and if you do too, bring your coffee and have a seat. I think we’re gonna be friends.

Stay connected!
Instagram: http://instagram.com/quirkybird
Facebook: http://facebook.com/stacihartnovels
Reader Group: http://facebook.com/groups/stacihart

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 407 reviews
Profile Image for Christy.
4,108 reviews34.7k followers
April 19, 2017
4 stars!!!

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Paper Fools is a unique, fun, and magical love story. It’s so different than any romance I’ve ever read. It’s almost like two stories in one. You get the earthly story of Dean and Lex, and you get the magical Greek Mythology story of the Gods above that are putting things into motion…

Aphrodite is the Goddess of love and when it comes to challenges, she is basically undefeated. Apollo has lost someone who is very dear to him and he’s got nothing to lose, and everything to gain when it comes to challenging Aphrodite- aka Dita. The rules are simple. Apollo picks a human, Dita picks a human. If they fall in love in the allotted amount of time, Dita wins. If Apollo can somehow keep this from happening, he wins.

Dean is in a band and is your typical damaged hero. He sleeps with women frequently, but he doesn’t do relationships. In fact, he has never been in a relationship. Lex is kind of the opposite. She is ALWAYS in a relationship. She’s not always in love, but the fear of being alone keeps her committed.
“Lex has abandonment issues, and Dean can’t commit. Damaged, party of two.”

Dean and Lex have that magical spark when they first meet. Who knows if it’s Dita, or if it’s just meant to be. I adored these two characters. Broken people are my jam. I love watching them find the one person that can heal them. I rooted for the two of them, but strangely enough, I also rooted for Apollo. Even though I wanted Dean and Lex together so much, I also wanted Apollo to get his happy. I loved the way it all turned out.

I loved how the story went back and forth from the couple on earth, to the Gods. It was interesting to me to see all the back story and interaction of the Gods. I really loved Dean and Lex and their friends as well. Kara and Roe especially. This book is a standalone for sure, but I can’t wait to read the next book. To get more of the Gods story and see what direction the next challenge will go.

Staci Hart blows me away with her fantastic writing and creative mind. Paper Fools was different than anything I’ve read before. I love that! As a romance reader, it’s easy to feel like you’re reading the same type of book over and over again. If you’re looking to mix it up, check out this fun, sexy, and swoony read!

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Profile Image for • Lisa •.
559 reviews1,563 followers
April 12, 2017
FIVE GAME OF LOVE STARS.

"Lex is everything Dean needs, but he can’t have her."

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This book was everything that my over eager romance heart begs for. My heart was racing, my interest levels were at a maximum and I fell in love with so many characters in the novel that I didn't know what to do with myself. Who new Greek mythology, combined with new adult brilliance would knock my socks off? Staci Hart has bloody well done it again, and in spectacular fashion. I am so in love with this book it's border line crazy.

What's it all about?
Previously released with the title, 'Deer in headlights', Staci Hart has edited and re released book one of the 'Hearts and Arrows' series with a gorgeous brand new title and cover to match. Grab your popcorn, reading accessories and get ready to swoon as the Greek gods play their games with the hearts of humans on earth.

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What did I love?
I think the question I've been asking myself over and over again is ... why did I wait so long to read this book? Maybe I felt a little intimidated by the idea of reading about Greek mythology or I was wrongly being distracted but with that mistake well and truly behind me I'm now so in love with the start of this series it's almost comical. This book was humorous in the best way and clever and wonderfully put together and lovely and romantic and sexy and all the things that I have come to expect from Staci Hart. This author completely blows me away with her creativity and ability to drag me into her writing and I never ever have any regrets. I loved the two for one vibe this novel gave my reading time. On the one hand you have the story of the Greek gods and their meddling ways with humans, and at the same time this story cleverly provides the romance tale on earth. I loved all the characters and I fell head over for this books broken hero.

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Final thoughts ...
If you have any reservations about jumping into this series. Please don't. It won't be what you are expecting. In fact I can guarantee it will blow you away. You will have so much fun reading this novel whilst simultaneously swooning like a crazed romance addict and feeling all those wonderful feelings that only a five star romance novel can give. I can't wait for the next book in the series and I'm hoping that I get to experience all that I have with this book and more. Thank you Staci Hart, you make my reading hours golden. Enjoy readers ... kisses.

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Profile Image for Stacey.
1,446 reviews1,143 followers
November 1, 2017
The Gods must be Crazy…

I don’t know how many “Gods” one-liners popped into my head while reading Paper Fools? To be honest, I can’t say I’m a big fan of them (Gods, not one-liners). Sure, by the end, they did some good things, but they’re so self-serving and narcissistic. I know they’re Gods and all, but I hate the idea that someone is sitting somewhere messing with our lives. Paper Fools left me contemplating whether we are just puppets on their strings. Are our love lives, dreams and ambitions guided to suit their game? Can we be so easily manipulated on the whim of Gods?

I can’t decide if I like Staci Hart’s writing or not. My sister is a fan and she’s read all of her books. I’ve read two and both times I wanted to rip someone’s head off a time or two. The reason why I can’t fully decide, though, is that by the end of the story, I’m happy and sighing in delight. It’s just hard to go through the heartache, frustration and misery to get to the happy.

I think with Paper Fools my frustrations lay with the fact that the characters did things that would normally have me chucking my kindle against the wall and calling it quits. But, how can I be frustrated with the characters, hate them for their mistakes and judgements, when I know that it wasn’t them acting alone. There was someone else pulling the strings to blame and hate.

So, while I was happy with the conclusion, the journey was just a little too fraught with angst and bitterness. I hardly felt like the main characters were connected. Sure, I get that there was a mutual attraction that couldn’t be acted on, but, really, there wasn’t a relationship for most of the story. The relationships we do see forming and growing stronger are not between the main characters. We're all sitting around just waiting for it to happen. That probably doesn't make sense. Let me try and describe it better... It was like watching Friends and waiting for Ross and Rachel to get together. In the meantime we're distracted by Chandler and Monica falling in love, Joey "How Ya Doin..." all the ladies and Phoebe singing to Smelly Cats. It's all interesting but you're just dying for Rachel and Ross to just get to it already.

An original storyline with some interesting characters kept me reading and I was content with how it finished. I may go on in the series at a later date.
Profile Image for Kandi Steiner.
Author 62 books12.3k followers
June 11, 2017
I AM SO MAD AT MYSELF.

I didn't read this book when it first came out as Deer in Headlights, even though I'd seen the most amazing teasers and cover for it. Then when Hart announced she was re-editing and re-releasing it, I STILL waited a full 2 months after release to read it.

WHY. DID. I. DO. THAT.

I'd been in a bit of a reading slump. It didn't matter what I picked up, nothing was holding my interest (save for poetry and non-fiction). But from the very first page of Paper Fools, I was absolutely HOOKED.

First let me just say that the premise of this book, this series, is BRILLIANT. You don't have to know or follow Greek Mythology to understand it (that was a big concern of mine) and if anything, that was the aspect I loved most. I learned so much while I was reading, and I found myself frequently opening up Google to look up more about the mythology and the gods and goddesses.

This is romance with so many layers, it's like peeling off flaky layers of a delicious biscuit and devouring it slowly. With lots of yummy butter. There's not just the amazing, angsty love story between Dean and Lex unfolding (those are the humans,) but what I loved MOST was the even more intense and confusing love life of Dita and the other gods. (Dita is short for Aphrodite)

HEFF ANYONE?! Sigh ugh and I even have a thing for Ares, even though he's a prick. I can't WAIT to see what unfolds in the next book, because I think he's her next competitor in the "games".

I don't want to spoil this book for anyone. I don't want to give a SINGLE THING away. All I want to scream over and over until you listen is READ THIS BOOK. READ IT NOW. Because if you're looking for a different romance, one that will make you fall in love with reading again and be SO EXCITED to get back to your Kindle, this is it.

Staci Hart blew me away with this one. She's incredibly talented as a writer, and this wasn't just her flexing her muscles, it was her full on magical display. She's a wizard when it comes to romance, and I hope I can forever stay under her spell.
Profile Image for Michelle.
2,102 reviews1,337 followers
April 19, 2017
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review

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Paper Fools is an updated and edited version of Staci Hart’s formerly titled book Deer in Headlights. This book is unlike any romance books that you have read as Hart beautifully intertwines Greek mythology into the mix as a modern love story takes center stage.

Here’s a little tidbit fact about me, I love Greek Mythology. In fact, I took a high school and college course studying about it and named several of my pets after the Greek Gods. And so when Hart introduced Apollo and Aphrodite as characters, I was thrilled. So what happens when two Greek Gods decide to play a game that involves humans? Well, in four weeks time Aphrodite must have her humans fall in love and Apollo as you guess it, will try to keep them apart. So who will win Aphrodite? Or Apollo?

#paperFools

Lex (Aphrodite’s chosen human) is one of those girls who also has to be in a relationship but has never been in love. Dean (Apollo’s chosen human) is a rock star musician. Yeah, he is one of those musicians with the tortured soul who pours his emotions into his writing and songs. So what happens when these two strangers meet and boom an instant connection and attraction is formed? Aphrodite should easily win. Right? Well, before Aphrodite can be pronounced the winner, her human player happens to be the girlfriend of Dean’s band member. Yes, you guessed it.. This game got a whole interesting now as Lex tries to be the faithful girlfriend. So will Apollo win this game as he tries to keep these two apart? Or will an unlikely friendship spark a love connection that neither Lex or Dean saw coming?

Paper Fools is a well-written love story that was a symphony of love, laughter, intensity, and raw emotions. Hart did an excellent job weaving the roles of the Greek Gods into the mix as she brought forth their relations with the humans, Lex and Dean. The push and pull attraction between Lex and Dean was indescribable as readers could sense and feel their hearts and emotions colliding as love began to take center stage. I absolutely adore Dean. He was the broken man with a tortured soul but who found the one person in Lex to heal the pieces to complete him. Hart’s ability to put a fun and unique romantic twist on a modern love story is the biggest appeal and draw for me. I love how she engages readers to see beyond the games and see for face value, the connection that is taking center stage. So if you are looking for a love story that was palpable, magical and lyrical, then I suggest you read Staci Hart’s Paper Fools. So are you up for the challenge to discover who will in this game of love?

 photo MICHELLE1_zps3515xymk.jpg Staci Hart

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Profile Image for Lillian ☁ Cloud 9 Books ☁.
573 reviews345 followers
June 16, 2017
***** 3.5 Stars *****

I have some mixed feelings about Paper Fools. There are some elements I absolutely adored, and there are others that I didn't care too much for.

The story takes place in the modern world, and the Greek gods entertain themselves by having competitions involving humans.

Aphrodite is the next goddess to play, and her opponent is Apollo. Aphrodite hasn't lost in years and doesn't plan on losing anytime soon. Especially since Apollo is the reason why her lover was killed.

The humans involved in the game are Lex and Dean. They're both damaged and don't know how to handle relationships. The attraction between then is strong, but Lex can't do much because her boyfriend is the drummer in Dean's band.

The majority of the issue in the story for Lex and Dean is the idea of cheating and having commitment issues. I really like the two lovers, but to me their relationship wasn't the star of the book. I was more interested in the gods and goddesses.

The idea of Greek gods competing against each other in the modern world is a unique idea. And it is probably the reason why I'm rounding my stars up. I loved the mythology, and I loved reading the background stories.

I'm interested in reading the next books, but I hope the human subjects in the next game are more interesting.




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Profile Image for Laura.
230 reviews13 followers
April 5, 2013
Awful, truly awful. My ratings philosophy is that 5 star and 1 star books should be rare, reserved for books that are blow-your-mind good or unbelievably bad. Saying that, this book has earned that uncommon 1 star.

I first saw this book here on Goodreads and was intrigued by its striking cover. Then I read the summary and found it was about the Greek gods in a modern day setting. I love Greek mythology! I've been reading it since I was a kid. And one of my favorite things about The Lightning Thief was putting the gods in present time. So I was very excited to read another take on that same theme.

Let me sum up my reaction to this book for you:



Again, I really like the idea of putting the Greek gods in a modern day setting. But in this book, it's just obnoxious. Instead of calling them by their real names, the gods are given cloying nicknames like Perry for Persephone and Heff for Hephaestus. And the dialogue is ridiculous, peppered with "Yo," "Duh," "Like, totally," and other slang. Add-in the name dropping of things like Grizzly Bear, Steve Jobs, Facebook, and Call of Duty and you start to get a sense of how desperate this book is to be cool and funny.

A semblance of plot kicks in as Aphrodite (here known as Dita, ugh) and Apollo begin a competition where Aphrodite has to get two mortals to fall in love and Apollo has to keep them apart. Things rapidly deteriorate once you realize two things: 1) the gods aren't actually the main characters here and 2) despite a cover that would say otherwise, this is actually just a trashy romance novel.

We meet our two main stereotypes, I mean characters: Dean, the handsome brooding, womanizing rock star and Lex, the beautiful girl with teal(!) eyes and daddy issues. It is instantly obvious how this book is going to end once Lex starts talking about how she won't be another conquest for Dean, and Dean starts thinking about how he's not going to fall for another bandmate's girlfriend. Oh, please.



So Lex and Dean meet. And at this point, you may think you've veered off into a One Direction fanfic when the author prints out the entire lyrics to Dean's song. Let me give you a glimpse at his songwriting prowess:

"You already know the answer
That I need to hear
So know, baby, know
Glow, baby, glow
Like electricity"

After hearing this magnificent song, Lex falls hopelessly in love with Dean. And Dean, despite having only said hello to this girl and despite a lifetime of selfish manwhoring, is completely ready to change his ways and settle down.

This brings us to my main issue with the book. Romance novels are dependent on having a believable relationship that the reader gets invested in. But there is no substance to any of the relationships in this novel. People meet and fall in love within minutes. Why? I couldn't tell you. Nothing happens to show why or how they fall in love. The author just tells you that they are and expects the reader to accept it. It's completely unbelievable and impossible to care about any of the relationships.

So Dean and Lex start hanging out and bond over his song lyrics, her poetry (about heaving breasts and lily white thighs), and their mutual love of vinyl records.



And the majority of the book actually follows these two idiots, not the gods! In fact, as part of Aphrodite and Apollo's competition, there is a rule that they can't interfere with either Lex or Dean. So instead of Aphrodite and Apollo actually being involved in the storyline, they just sit around and comment on it here and there. It's like there are two completely separate stories.

So the book continues in a flurry of plot contrivances (notebooks swapped by accident! an unfavorable tarot card reading!) and gratuitous sex scenes that grind any momentum to a halt. I was yelling at the characters to stop banging and get on with the plot!

But there isn't much plot. As I mentioned, it's very predictable what's going to happen, and there is no tension at all in the book. In fact, there aren't even any antagonists. Apollo is the nominal villain, but every conflict he creates is resolved easily without consequence in a few pages. There was just nothing happening to make me care about anything going on.

In conclusion, this book is startlingly bad: cliched, predictable, desperate and unfunny. Let me give you a few more choice lines:

"They don't call me the Oracle of Amazing Awesomeness for nothing."

"Dean had all the makings of a man-sized Venus Flytrap. Everything thing about him called to her (and every other woman in a 50 foot radius), but she knew that if she got close she would get eaten. Hopefully eaten in the sexy way"

"Gods, Dita. You must do the sexiest robot in the history of the world."

But one good thing! The book is short! Less than 200 pages and then you can read something else!

Profile Image for Elyse Schramm.
114 reviews15 followers
July 26, 2016
Have you ever thought about what the Gods do when they're bored? Well they're not sitting up on Mount Olympus twiddling their thumbs anymore, and they surely haven't stopped meddling in the human's lives either. They've created a new game, and we're the ones who reap the benefits, or unfortunately pay the price. Aphrodite and Apollo have been at each other's throats since that fateful day when both lost their loves thousands of years ago. So what better way than to have a little friendly competition between enemies. Each will choose a human player, and each have their own purpose. Aphrodite to make them fall in love, and Apollo's mission to keep them apart. Can there be a winner with so many hearts involved, or is this catastrophe waiting to happen?

So who can have a complete story wrapped up tight with a bow in 160 odd pages? Staci Hart, that's who. This was an amazing start to her series Good Gods. Deer in Headlights took such a fun twist to Greek mythology that you can't help but love it. The book initially drew me in with the simplistic beauty of the cover art, and when I read the blurb I had to have it. This book was non-stop from the cover to cover; with sexy rockers, arrogant Gods, and sex & romance. I can't wait to read the next book in the series Snake in the Grass.

(Staci's new additions to this book add so many FEELS. I can't wait for everyone to see and read the NEW Deer in Headlights.)
Profile Image for Kelly.
5,112 reviews195 followers
February 20, 2014
The Greek pantheon is one that I've always embraced whole-heartedly (I blame Xena and her shenanigans with the Gods for this) (No, wait. I loved those Gods well before she showed up), so finding a book that weaves together the stories I remember while successfully throwing in a modern twist is a fun, FUN treat! That the Gods of old were sassy and snarky and downright cruel at times was an added plus. Because, let's face it, those guys are the epitome of dysfunction and that's part of what makes them so engaging.

So. Dita and Apollo are ready to do battle in the competition that keeps the Gods sane through the ages. They each have a player and they each have reasons for wanting to win. There's backstory and unrequited longing and some really awful backstabbing. Basically, it's all the things that make stories about the Gods so irresistible. Here's the kicker - while I felt for Apollo and understood why he needed to win, I wanted Dita to win just so Lex and Dean could find their own happiness. It was a very confusing time for me.

With a playing board as big as this is, I see the potential for A LOT more stories down the road. Hopefully, the lies and backstabbing will be exposed and we'll get to see some righteous wrath rain down on those that done Dita wrong. Because nothing says drama like a woman on the warpath.

Very fun and very intriguing with characters that alternately made me want to give them a good shake or hug them. These Gods can be childish and immature, but they do (occasionally) do the right thing. *thumbs up*

-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal

02/19/14 reread - It's been almost a year since I first read this book and it's aged nicely. Lots of backstabbing and jealousy wrapped around a love match you end up rooting for.
Profile Image for  Linathebookaddict  .
1,455 reviews392 followers
April 20, 2017
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I really enjoyed this. I love the Greek mythology, being a Greek myself, and this was pure pleasure to read! Gods, humans and love, you have everything in this book! Loved Lex & Dean.
I am a huge fan of this author and this book entertained me the whole way. I loved how she took the Greek Gods and created something compelling, romantic and magical.
Wanna find out what the Gods do in their free time? How they love getting into our way? How they can bring havoc in human lives? This book shows all these and so much more!
It was fun, witty and emotional! Loved it.
If you want to read something unique but at the same time romantic, then I recommend this.


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Profile Image for Sophie.
590 reviews471 followers
April 16, 2017
Way back when, back in 2014, when I didn't know what blogging was or the importance of reviews and was just a regular reader I picked up a book called Deer In Headlights by Staci Hart. I had no idea who she was at the time but I really loved the cover!

I read that book and the ones after it and fell in love. At that time the concept of what Staci had written was really refreshing to me. Not my “normal” but I loved it.

Three years on and Staci has become a personal  favourite of mine. A best seller. A word wizard, with outstanding books. Staci has now reworked Deer In Headlights and produced PAPER FOOLS. And omg if i thought I loved it before, now I'm downright DEVOTED to it.

In Paper Fools, Staci has intricately mixed Greek Mythology with contemporary romance and the result is downright MAGICAL! Honestly, don't let the Greek Mythology put you off, Staci has brought it right into the 21st century and made Greek gods even cooler!

This book is so refreshing, different and above all else CLEVER. Never once does the story dip or lose track despite the characters and “worlds” it follows. It's addicting and basically covers EVERY SINGLE BASE that you could possibly wish to reach as a book lover.

Each and every character is FANTASTIC. I want to be a Greek goddess. I want to be Lex and have Dean all to myself. LORD. DEAN!!! I want to live in their world. I want to be played. I want to be player. I want it ALL.

There's not a minute, of this book that I didn't feel, enjoy and love! Once again Staci has proved she's one of the best for a reason!
Profile Image for Jacqueline's Reads.
2,936 reviews1,512 followers
July 8, 2013
For more reviews + Giveaway, visit Jacqueline's reads

Also Free on Amazon HERE

Dear in Headlights is like reading two books in one. It’s Greek Mythology with a contemporary twist!

Aphrodite is the love goddess and she never loses. If two people are meant to be together, Aphrodite will see to it. Aphrodite and Apollo play the game of love but with humans. Two humans are picked and if Aphrodite can get them to fall in love within a month, then Aphrodite wins, but if she can’t Apollo wins.

The humans are Lex and Dean. Dean is a rock star and man-whore, who is notorious for sleeping with band member’s girlfriends. Lex is Travis’ girlfriend and Travis is the newest member of Dean’s band. Lex and Dean are drawn together, but Lex doesn’t want to hurt Travis and Dean doesn’t want to break up his band.

Dear in Headlights is split between two parallel story lines, The Gods and the Humans.

I decided to give this read a try because I found the blurb very interesting. I’ll be honest, I don’t know much about Greek Gods, so it’s not my forte and I found that I enjoy Lex and Dean’s story more, but I did find both stories fascinating and very different. There are some flash backs during the God’s story line, but enough to add a little depth to the story.

There are times where it was a little difficult to follow, there are plenty of side characters and if you aren’t paying attention it can throw you off. (To me anyhow) I really liked Lex and Dean’s story and maybe because it was easier to follow. I am usually not a fan of love triangles, BUT Lex never did anything to make me angry at her. There was a fine line between flirtation and downright cheating.

There’s plenty of tension between both God and human stories. There are a few steamy scenes which would make this read mature read, but it wasn’t too much and didn’t take away from the story. I think Deer in Headlights warrants a specific audience and definitely for those Greek lovers.

An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review
Profile Image for Shayna.
1,813 reviews614 followers
April 2, 2017
Ok, so I've quickly come to the conclusion that Staci Hart can pretty much DO NO WRONG. After completely devouring PAPER FOOLS, I was reminded of that very fact. I mean, who else could keep me interested and enamored with Greek Mythology? Ms. Hart sure as hell can, and she did with this fantastical, captivating, and unique love story. I went into this story completely blind and it captured my heart from the very start. You won't believe how much you will enjoy this until you are completely immersed in these character's lives.

Our main characters are Dean and Lex and the main love story focuses on them, but you guys...there is SO MUCH MORE to their story. There is definitely a higher power at work here and they like to play games, and they play to win. There is more at stake than two unsuspecting hearts. Dean and Lex's connection has the power to destroy or enrich lives, gods and goddesses alike. PAPER FOOLS has so much beauty and heart flying off of the pages, it's hard to stop once you start.

I have to say placing Greek Gods in a modern-day setting was a pretty fantastic idea, one that made this book what it was, an entertaining, beautiful, refreshing, and unique read. If you are a Greek Mythology nut and are wary of what modernizing will do to it, don't be, seriously this author does it justice, for sure. Don't take yourself so seriously and just let go and enjoy this new, different, and completely satisfying read. You can tell with each turn of the page that this author puts her heart and soul into her writing. It's so evident and it shines through each and every time. I enjoyed PAPER FOOLS immensely and I can't wait to see what's up next!

Paper Fools Teaser

Unknown
March 6, 2013
Let me keep this short. I'm a manly man, I'm 6'5, a beard and chest hair that would rival most animals. I can speak to grizzly bears. I brew beer in Germany for gods sake, and this booked ripped me of all that integrity. It's a beautifully composed piece of literature.

I wept, I cried, I laughed and sang.

Do yourself a favor and get a grande coffee instead of a venti and use that extra dollar to buy this book.
Profile Image for Beneath The Covers Blog.
1,512 reviews505 followers
April 17, 2017
I am in love with everything Staci Hart!!!

As a huge Greek mythology fanatic, I jumped at the chance to read it. I've always had a special fondness for the Greek Gods because they are so relateable. They have flaws, they make mistakes, they know love, hate and every other human emotion. And Staci gave all that with Paper Fools.

It was really refreshing to see a different take of how the Gods will live in Modern times. Their fueds and their love/hate relationship made this book absolutely amazing.

Also, can I get an Amen for Dean?!? I think I am in LOVE with this sweet broken man.

I am so pumped to read this series and just go on an adventure with these Greek steampunk Gods. ~Sonal
Profile Image for Sher❤ The Fabulous BookLover.
910 reviews575 followers
December 29, 2017
3.5 Stars:)

Well I must say this was definitely an original. I liked the idea of the Greek mythology being intertwined with a romance storyline. The back and forth from earth to Olympus where the Gods live was interesting. I actually really liked reading about Apollos and Aphrodite, Persephone and Zeus. I became more interested in them than the other storyline between the humans. The first half really captivated me, but somewhere after about 60% the “humans” started making my eyes roll🙄. I wanted more from the hero Dean and he just seemed so passive.

Even though this wasn’t a five star for me I still love Staci’s writings and I love that she pushes the envelope when it comes to romances. I’m curious to see what happens in the rest of the series.
Profile Image for Sammie Lynn.
415 reviews5 followers
April 17, 2017
Paper Fools was different than most romance books I've read as of late. Now, this is not a bad different-
It was unbelievably refreshing.
Really good. I'm not sure how else to put it.
Staci Hart took Greek mythology to a whole new level. For me, mythology was never my thing. I never was able to grasp it, but this book changed that. She personified the gods, made me feel like they were real people- they go through struggles, hurt, hate, and love too. Yeah- they live forever but they have lives and feelings.
So what do the gods do for their infinite lives in Olympus.. they make bets and play games- and some of those games include the humans. Staci Hart effortlessly intertwined a story of the gods with a beautiful romance of the humans.
Both sets of characters did me in. Lex was so relatable. I felt like I was her and she was me, and therefore, I lived the story right there with her. And what girl wouldn't want their chance with Dean. Yeah- ok, he's damaged and has a bit of a sexual past, BUT hes sexy, sweet, and definitely lovable. Alright so... I call dibs. And although this story centered around Aphrodite and Apollo, and Lex and Dean- I felt like I got to know the other characters just as much. They were all important, developed, and had their stories.
The story was down right hilarious at points; it was heartbreaking; it was sexy, and it was full of feeling. If you're looking for something new and different. This is it.
Profile Image for DeAnne Cherry.
Author 6 books8 followers
June 25, 2017
I love Greek Mythology. I was sort of wary about the gods in modern times, but it was awesome!

In short, the gods are bored so they have come up with competitions to keep themselves entertained. Aphrodite, Dita they call her, goes up against Apollo. The each have to chose a human player and Dita will try to help them fall in love, while Apollo will try to separate them.

I loved this book, not only do we have a modern day romance to keep us enthralled but the author takes full advantage of it's roots and flashes back to ancient times. We see Aphrodite in all her relationships with the gods. Her best friend Persephone is my absolute favorite of the book. Love her! We also see the myths used in creative new ways to set the backstory. This book is the first in a series of Dita going up again ALL the gods so we are sure to get a huge, awesome dose of not only modern romance but mythology. I just can't wait for Hades, what will Dita do then?
Profile Image for Nadine ShelfLove.
444 reviews192 followers
July 7, 2013
Update 07/06/2013
*****************************************************************
4.5 Goddess-Stars

I've read Staci Hart's Deer in Headlights twice, and I thought it wasn't possible but the second time I even fell more head over heels in love with the book and Staci!


The first time I've read the book in a day and was pleasantly surprised about it because I stumbled over DIH, thanks to my GR friend, and didn't know what to expect; but what I did know was that the blurb made me very curious.
Staci's style of writing sucked me right in and the idea of modern Greek gods living in today's NYC were really brilliant and unique. When thousand year old gods are bored they come up with the funniest things - so they did in Staci's story. She did a great job discribing the gods and what there challenge is. I could picture every god and it was a fun read. I adored Dita and felt her emotions as well as those from Apollo. I giggled like a school girl about their challenge and the conversations the gods had with each other.
I never thought Greek gods could be SO MUCH FUN. If you think the gods are similar to what we once learned in school, then your TOTALLY wrong- it's much much better and the gods, their stories, their challenges, their secrets will suck you right in, I promise!


Hilarious, picturing thousand year old gods cracking jokes and using modern slang;) LOVED IT!!

Not only was it pure bliss to read about the gods but it was also interesting to read about the human players Dean and Lex; from their first meeting till their first kiss, simply everything. Yeah not to forget about their struggles they had to face in their past which hindert them to embrace love.

Overall, DIH is a fast paced read filled with humor, love, passion and revenge. Find out about the gods hidden secrets, their desires and what they are willing to do to gain more power.

If you read DIH you will realize it's just a joyful read and you want more, want to find out more about the gods and their next challenge - well lucky for you her second book is right around the corner and it'll knock your socks off for sure ;).
Profile Image for Heather C.
633 reviews20 followers
April 17, 2017
When I read the blurb to Paper Fools, I knew I wanted to read it. I didn't even notice until I was half way through the book that it had been edited and previously published under a different title. All I knew was that I wanted to read about Greek Gods in the modern world and the games they play on humans. That was enough to suck me right in.

I'm going to start off by saying that it was a bit slow for me in the beginning. I only ever tell people that when I really want to encourage them to keep going. Which is exactly why I'm mentioning it now. If you find yourself in the same situation, please keep going. It will be worth it.

So we get two stories mixed into one with this. The first is that we have Greek Gods who are living in the modern world. They've even replicated their home to reflect the current culture of the time period. They are super competitive and are always playing some kind of game/challenge. Some that last years and or decades to play out. Up next is a game between Aphrodite and Apollo and the rules are simple. Aphrodite is to pick a female and Apollo picks a male. The goal is for either Aphrodite to make them fall in love or Apollo to keep them apart. Throughout all of this, we get back history between all of the Gods. We get to see the hurt, pain and love loss that they have been through. It certainly isn't pretty but you are left rooting for all of them to find their happiness.

Dean and Lex are the players that the Gods chose. Lex is Dean's new drummer's girlfriend and is an absolute no go but he can't seem to stay away from her. He's a bit broken and makes no apologies for his behavior in the past but Lex seems to shift something inside of him. The one person he desperately wants to be with is the one person he absolutely cannot be with. As time progresses and the Gods play a little interference, it becomes clear that the two of them are actually made for each other.

I really enjoyed the storyline here. Greek Gods in a modern world, making love matches. Or at least one of them is. Haha. While I understand that Dean and Lex are the main love story, I think adding the Gods into the world and having them with their own little story really helped tie everything together.

Overall, I enjoyed this fun yet twisted love story. If you are looking for a bit of old mixed with new and one broken singer finding his true love, then this is the book for you! As always, I look forward to Staci's next book!

*ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review*
Profile Image for Monique.
1,113 reviews54 followers
April 19, 2017
Do you ever feel that your life is in the hands of the gods?
Have you ever wondered what they do up there to pass the time?
Is it all just a game? To some degree, yes it is....

This book was quite interesting. It is classified as a contemporary romance and fantasy. The fantasy is based around the mythical Greek gods but the romance is in abundance! Staci Hart has cleverly weaved the gods into a modern day love story.

Aphrodite is the god of love and she is up against Apollo in the latest god games. She has a month to get a couple to fall in love, and Apollo has to keep them apart. Our modern day couple are Lex and Dean, both with issues that won't make this an easy challenge for each god. As their story is being played out, we also get the history behind the gods and their love stories. I was intrigued by it all.

You don't have to know about the gods to comprehend this book, but you do need to pay attention to understand where everyone fits in. Once that is instilled, you can then treasure this enchanting amour.

*I received a copy for an honest review.
*Reviewed for JoandIsaLoveBooksBlog.
Profile Image for Dianne.
320 reviews155 followers
July 8, 2013
*Also posted at Oops! I Read A Book Again*

Thank you to Tabby of IMR Blog Tours and to Staci Hart for the review copy! This in no way affected my views and these are my honest opinions. So let's get to that review!

Enjoyable. Satisfying. Engrossing. Those are three words I would use to describe Deer in Headlights. I started reading Deer in Headlights in my new bb Adrien the Kindle late at night (or more like early in the morning as that was 2AM) to lull myself to sleep. However, it didn't help because I was so glued to the page and ended up more awake than before I started reading.

Stories and novels involving Greek mythology and Greek gods and goddesses are my guilty pleasure. I can't seem to get enough of these scheming and manipulating gods. It's like a super campy soap opera on steroids. And that's my exact definition of a guilty pleasure. I admit that Deer in Headlights isn't surprising and you could probably tell already what's gonna happen right from the blurb. But I really had a fun time reading it and found myself reading nonstop.

Moreover, we get two stories in one! The gods and goddesses in here live in a high-rise up out there and they fashioned its surroundings to Central Park. They each get a floor of the high-rise and it was so cool to read how the author imagined and described each of the god's residences. Moreover, they live as if in the modern times. Apollo even works out! Perry aka Persephone eats junk food. I enjoyed how Staci made the gods modern and then turn that back around by showing us flashbacks and how they were back in the day. Because they're gods and goddesses, they are forever bored so they hold competitions and challenges. In here, we witness Apollo and Dita aka Aphrodite dishing it out. The winner gets a token from the loser and can exchange said token for a favor. They;re competing over Lex and Dean. Dita, being the goddess of love will do whatever for them to end up together, and Apollo won't let that happen because he's badly in need of a token from Dita, to free and get back together with the love of his life, Daphne. So we have two stories, the one with the mortals and the one with the immortals. I love myself a deal so I loved this format.

Lex and Dean's love story was kind of expected but I did enjoy it. I think I liked Kara and Roe's story more, Lex and Dean's best friends, who acted as cupid with them. I just got a bit iffy at times that these mere mortals just had no chance against the immortals manipulating them (I'm all for free will, yo!) but nothing major. And my heart just really went out to Apollo. Dita is harder to like as her temper's definitely on the short side and she does things willy-nilly but she has heart. But Apollo, Apollo. <3

All in all, a fulfilling read if you're looking for a short, fun and sexy read with some Greek gods and goddesses meddling in with the lives of mortals. If I'll be given a chance to read the sequel, I'll gladly accept. Do pick this up, it's free! Plus, AWESOME COVER!
April 17, 2017
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review*

4.5 Stars

'Paper Fools' is a book with a story within a story. You are introduced to Olympus and its Gods. There's Zeus, Hades, Persephone, etc. But, the two that are front-and-center, are Aphrodite and Apollo. Then, there's the mortal world where there's Lex and Dean.

Every so often there are games that are played between the Gods. The next challenge has Aphrodite and Apollo up against one another. For this task Aphrodite and Apollo will both choose a human player. Aphrodite will have to get them together before the clock runs out, in four human weeks in order to win the game. For Apollo to win, he'll have to keep the humans apart. And for every game there are rules that players have to abide by and it's no different for Aphrodite and Apollo. They must follow each rule, if not, they suffer the consequences.

Dean (Apollo's player) is a musician. He's a tortured and complicated soul. He's suffered emotional detachment of epic proportions. He channels all the pain he has endured into music, lyrics and poetry.

Lex (Aphrodite's player) is an artist and a serial girlfriend. She can't seem to stay single. It's like she always has to be in a relationship. That being said, with numerous boyfriends, she still hasn't been in-love. She doesn't open her heart for the simple fact that she doesn't want to get hurt. She doesn't want to feel that emptiness when it's all over. Basically, she's just afraid.

"Dean leaned over the microphone with his guitar slung behind his back, catching her eye. He was a work of art with a chiseled jaw and a mouth that might have been the most perfect thing she’d ever seen."

When Lex first sees Dean, that's it, she's under his spell. The problem is, she has a boyfriend. Though, she knows she doesn't love him and she feels that Travis feels the same way towards her. So, she's conflicted with what she starts feeling for Dean. She knows that her relationship is practically over, but she still feels the need to be faithful to Travis. So, what's a girl to do?

"I know I asked you for one day. But I knew when I asked you that it wouldn’t be enough, and I was right. I don’t know where you’ve been hiding all my life. But now you’re here, and I don’t think I can walk away."

Dean and Lex were so compatible. There souls were just made for each other. They clicked on so many levels. I was rooting for these two, these two were just explosive together. I wanted everything good to happen for them, especially for Dean because he deserved to be happy.

"Nothing in his life had come easy before. And that thought brought him anything but comfort. Because he didn’t know if he could keep her. He only knew he desperately wanted to."

Will Aphrodite win the game, with the outcome that keeps Lex and Dean together? Or will Apollo pull the upset that keeps Lex and Dean apart? *twiddles fingers* wouldn't you like to know? Read the book to find out.
Profile Image for sil ♡ the book voyagers.
1,206 reviews2,978 followers
August 16, 2015
This book was really fun! I adore greek mythology, so it was no brainer when I decided to read Deer in Headlights. Plus it's by the awesome Staci Hart. She gave the story a twist by putting it into the modern day. The greek gods are ALL THERE! But they get bored easily, you know, because they have all lived like thousands of years. By that, the gods have created a game between them and the one who wins must give the other god a token aka a favor they can take from the god whenever they want. This time is Aphrodite's turn.

Dita - Aphrodite - is so fun and driven by her goals and powerful. I adored her. But mostly I adored her relationships with certain gods. Perry aka Persephone's friendship with Dita is SO AMAZING TO SEE, READ. The girls have been friends for forever and you get to see how they become friends and some flashbacks to certain myths. Perry is an incredible and easy to love character. I love that every time Staci showed her she was eating something - donuts, cupcakes, anything. Her introduction to the story was also really good.

There's also Dita's relationship with Heff aka Hephaestus, her husband. I just want more of them please yes thank you. That's the only thing I want. I can see the potential in these two, and I'm certain Staci will give them to me someday soon. Heff is nice and sexy. He's always there for Dita whenever she needs him. And they share these little sexy smiles and moments you just totally want them to do SOMETHING ABOUT IT. {ps. He made her a robot dog!! HE MADE HER A ROBOT DOG WHICH IS SO CUTE AND LOVES DITA)

Aside from the gods POVs, we also get the humans playing the game. We are presented to Lex and Dean in this story. Sometimes, I admit, I wanted to keep reading about the gods (omg sorry!) It's just - yeah, the humans were nice to follow and their part in the game, but the gods had me since the very beginning. I fell in love really quickly. YET I really liked the story and how it all developed. I can't say I didn't enjoy Dean and Lex together, BECAUSE I TOTALLY DID. I was rooting for them and hurting with them.

I also want to say that I am in love, completely, hopelessly in love with Hades and Perry. I am so down with this ship/otp. It's so cute to see them interact - for real, guys. You can see the love shining in their eyes!!! It's so sweet the relationship they have.

This book, probably the whole series, needs its own TV show??? The way Staci wrote it, it's perfect to see on the screen and I would definitely support this. It's amazing to see the gods in modern times and using iPhones, dressing in suits, living in a building where every god had a floor for themselves - it's all really well written and fabulous to read.

\So excited (and scared) to read next game's book - ahhhh, it's time for Ares. And you know his relationship with Aphrodite wink wink
Profile Image for Rachel Krogen.
158 reviews4 followers
February 5, 2014
Deer In Headlights By Staci Hart

Aphrodite never loses, not when it comes to love.

Immortality has its perks and its downsides. Boredom, for one, is unavoidable, but instead of playing parcheesi, the gods devised a game that uses humans as pawns. Remember Shakespeare? That was Apollo. Bonnie and Clyde? Aphrodite versus Ares.

Aphrodite is on deck once again, and she'll defend her domain of love as she works to get the humans together before the clock runs out, while her opponent tries to keep them apart.

Game one is against Apollo, and Aphrodite knows she has her work cut out for her when he chooses Dean, a brooding rock star man-whore who believes women can't be trusted. Aphrodite decides on Lex, a perfect match for Dean, even though her heart is guarded, locked away tight. She'd never let anyone in. Not ever. Of course, she hasn't met Dean.

But there's always more at stake than just the game when you've lived for thousands of years. The Olympians are the original dysfunctional family, surviving eons of love and lust, betrayal and lies, as friends and enemies, through feuds and wars. From Ares, the douchebag, who's forever trying to start a fight and get Aphrodite into bed, to Persephone, her best friend, who she can always count on for a healthy helping of bacon on a bad day, the gods will take you on a lighthearted trip as they mess with humans, laugh and fight, lose love and gain power.

I loved loved loved it! Dean and Lexy are perfect for each other! Panty droping Dean lived a hard life and likes to sleep with his drummers girlfriends.Dean sleeps with another drummer's girlfriend so now they are looking for another drummer again. enter Lexy she has a boyfriend Travis who is a drummer gets a job for Deans band! Lexy doesnt love him like she should.
Aphrodite and Apollo chose these two to win a game but it is more than a game for Apollo he wants to free his love from a tree her father put her in! The story,Characters every thing is awesome! I love the flash backs on deans life. This is a must read story! The series is awesome!
Profile Image for Ashleigh Margheim.
Author 5 books64 followers
September 22, 2013
Holy Hades and Zeus!!!! The Gods or Olympians as they are referred to in this book are up to there necks in boredom. Looking over the world is just not as exciting anymore. Two of them are challenged with bring to young lovers together in a battle of wits. Can Aphrodite keep her title or will Apollo use his cunning ways to defeat her? This story follows the Olympians and their story of life in modern day Manhattan, but it follows a young couple who are drawn to each other as if they were soul mates. Lex has had her fair share of heartbreak and hasn't ever had a long term relationship. The one she's in is dull and she finds herself falling for the one guy who has been crowned "professor panty dropper". They bond over their creative writing and artwork and fate steps in, giving them a chance to be together. Is Dean the perfect match for Lex or will he live up to his man-whore reputation? Only time will tell.. I applaud Ms. Hart for bringing such age old mythology to life in a modern world. The characters are so well written and detailed, you'd think you were snuggled up on Dita's plush couch with her. My honest opinion, is do not go into this book thinking it will be like that old school mythology crap they taught you in school, rather a new, fresh take on the Gods at play. I rated it five stars because I was so engrossed within this story, I couldn't put it down. Enjoy it with an open mind, you'll love every page!
Profile Image for Andrea Beck.
Author 5 books88 followers
April 7, 2013
I have to admit, I know very little about Greek Mythology. I know about a few of the gods and their histories. When Deer in Headlights by Staci Hart, came into view, I was eager to read it. Why, you ask. Well, Greek Mythology based in modern times,modern lingo, and modern problems, I was all over it. I promise to not give any spoilers, I want you to read the book and be filled with fabulousness like I was. It's not all about the gods but humans, as well. Awesomely flawed and damaged humans. I fell in love with each of the human characters, Lex, Dean, Roe, Kara, and Travis. The banter between them is hilarious, as is the banter between the gods. Aphrodite's nickname is Dita and her best friend is Persephone, wonderfully nicknamed, Perry.

Once came to the end of the book, I swooned, literally, I swooned. I am anxiously awaiting the second book. Look, I am an author as well and I am a picky reader and critical about plots and characters. And, this new author has a success in her future. Her story telling is divine and it has made me more curious about Greek Mythology. It's a book of love, humor, and education.

:::fist bump, Staci Hart:::
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