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Residue (Residue #1)

by Laury Falter (Goodreads Author)

4.32 of 5 stars 4.32 · rating details · 394 ratings · 44 reviews

When Jocelyn Weatherford is whisked away from a preparatory academy in upstate New York to live with her extended family in New Orleans, she is unprepared to encounter the dangers awaiting her. Yet even as she is thrust into an unfamiliar world of witches and voodoo magic, the greatest threat of all may be the boy she has fallen for.

While handsome and charming, he is also...more

ebook, 300 pages

Published April 13th 2012 by Laury Falter

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Aug 13, 2012 Daphne rated it 5 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Everyone

Shelves: witch, eye-on-the-series, must-read, favorite-books

Laury Falter does not disappoint. Residue grabbed my attention instantly. After her successful series Guardian Trilogy she followed through once again. This book is about war between families, betrayal, forbidden love and witchcraft.

Sixteen year old Jocelyn Weatherford is being removed from the only home she has known. Though confused and angry she finds comfort in learning that her mother approved her departure from the Academy in Upstate NY to be with her family in New Orleans. Jocelyn loves h...more

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May 06, 2013 Jennifer rated it 4 of 5 stars

Jocelyn, a young girl coming of age is suddenly thrust into a world that she doesn’t quite know exists. She doesn’t know that her family comes from a long line of powerful witches. After being sent away at a young age to be cared for at a boarding school Jocelyn is your average run of the mill teenager. She is quite extraordinary despite her beliefs. She is a Weatherford and this makes her anything but ordinary.

Jameson Caldwell is a high school student as well as a student of mystical things....more Jocelyn, a young girl coming of age is suddenly thrust into a world that she doesn’t quite know exists. She doesn’t know that her family comes from a long line of powerful witches. After being sent away at a young age to be cared for at a boarding school Jocelyn is your average run of the mill teenager. She is quite extraordinary despite her beliefs. She is a Weatherford and this makes her anything but ordinary.

Jameson Caldwell is a high school student as well as a student of mystical things. He has always stood out among his brothers and sisters. He doesn’t date girls, even though he is quite striking and it isn’t for a lack of options. But he is different his future holds secrets that even his isn’t privy too. Jameson is part of a family forbidden to have interaction with the Weatherford’s but when a chance encounter with one at a local store sets off a reaction even he cannot deny, despite family lore.

This story is very well written. I have read a lot of witch books and this has some unique qualities. I am always thrilled to be immersed into the fantasy world of witches and mystical beings. One of my all-time favorite books is about a witch, so I have read a lot and I can say that I really enjoyed this read. I love Jameson and Jocelyn’s story. Their fated love coupled with the connection and bond that they share is sweet.

The feud between the families made for some great moments in the book. The snarky characters in the Caldwell and Weatherford families are very fun and the curses and hex’s they put on each other made me laugh at times. Throughout the book the unwinding of the truth brings both sides to a new realization, one that is not only forbidden but is dangerous.
There were a few parts where I saw some things that didn’t add up for me. But they were very minor. In whole I really enjoyed the book and getting to know these characters. I think that readers who like a little magic in their reading will truly enjoy this story line. The fated lovers, the family quarrel, the history of the families and the secrets to the future and the past are all key parts to this book.

I give it a solid 4 stars. There are other books in this series and I think I will be reading them all soon to find out what happens to these characters. (less)

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Apr 27, 2013 Krista rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: boarding-schools, cover-love, indie-author, magic, occult, paranormal, review-on-blog, romance, witchcraft, witches, young-adult, would-be-a-great-movie

Residue is one of those books that I am always on the look-out for. Witchcraft, Voodoo, Romance... everything I love to read about! And what I found was something I didn't quite expect. I have not read Ms. Falter's Guardian books, but I must go back and read them now because I feel like I am missing something. But, despite that what I found in Residue is a fun plot, a likable protagonist, and a nice take on magic.

After Jocelyn has a seriously weird thing happen to her in class, she is sent to li...more Residue is one of those books that I am always on the look-out for. Witchcraft, Voodoo, Romance... everything I love to read about! And what I found was something I didn't quite expect. I have not read Ms. Falter's Guardian books, but I must go back and read them now because I feel like I am missing something. But, despite that what I found in Residue is a fun plot, a likable protagonist, and a nice take on magic.

After Jocelyn has a seriously weird thing happen to her in class, she is sent to live with family in New Orleans. However, her family in New Orleans are witches and apparently she is too, but no one decided to tell her anything about it until now. Curiosity peaked for me when I found out that she was never told, but her cousins were. Why? What makes Jocelyn so special? So many measures are taken: the boarding school, the secrets, the spies... Again, why? I had to find out! But don't fret, I'm not giving anything away here!

The one thing she is told is to stay away from the Caldwells; they are the Weatherfords' family enemies and that she should never go near any of them. Kinda hard to do when they attend the same magic school, but they generally keep their distances from each other unless it is to start a battle. However, Jocelyn has never met any of the Caldwells and wouldn't know one even if she did. Which leads to the next part of the story: Jameson. A Caldwell. But when Jocelyn met him, she had no idea and well, she sort of fell for him. I love it! Romeo and Juliet at Hogwarts! And not only do the families not like the idea of even a friendship - love? - out of the question. And what is worse? The Sevens, the higher power of the magical have something against them being together too and have sent down Vires to keep them apart.

Residue is full of laugh-out-loud moments, action, and magic. I found the book a very fun and quick read despite its 300 pages. I like that it is a series and I can keep reading about the characters and see how everything eventually unfolds - those are definitely on my TBR pile! I really liked Jocelyn, she is a girl who stands up for everyone and is genuine in her intentions. I would liked to see more of Jameson as a whole, but it is just the first book. The writing was done well, no egregious errors that made me stop reading, and I was easily drawn into their world. Overall, it is a great book for YA Paranormal and Urban Fantasy fans and for anyone who wants a little magic in their lives!(less)

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Apr 26, 2013 Arthistorychick rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: paranormal-series, young-adult

Residue by Laury Falter
Residue Series #1
Source: Author
My Rating: 4½/5 stars

Jocelyn Weatherford is exactly like her classmates: she is a member of a privileged family; she attends a private preparatory academy and; only sees her mother on school holidays. For Jocelyn every day is the same: get up, go to class, do her homework, break some rules with her friends. This is the life Jocelyn knows and is accustomed too; unfortunately, it is a complete and utter lie.

Everything, and I do mean everything...more Residue by Laury Falter
Residue Series #1
Source: Author
My Rating: 4½/5 stars

Jocelyn Weatherford is exactly like her classmates: she is a member of a privileged family; she attends a private preparatory academy and; only sees her mother on school holidays. For Jocelyn every day is the same: get up, go to class, do her homework, break some rules with her friends. This is the life Jocelyn knows and is accustomed too; unfortunately, it is a complete and utter lie.

Everything, and I do mean everything, changes for Jocelyn the day she looks down and discovers a horrifying scar on her arm. WTH?? Jocelyn is never, and I do mean never sick or hurt so the presence of such a wound is as shocking as it is painful. Though she has never been to the nurse’s office, Jocelyn heads there in order to have the scar attended too. Next thing Jocelyn knows, she’s packing her clothes and on a plane, with the nurse, to New Orleans where she will take up residence with her extended family. What? She has family other than her mother?? Oh, and by the way: you are a witch, your entire extended family constitutes a long, long line of powerful witches and; your family would be the mortal enemies of the Caldwell family another long, long line of powerful witches. Yeah, like Jocelyn is going to believe all that crap!

Some people just take a little convincing and Jocelyn’s journey to belief begins the moment she touches down in New Orleans. She is greeted by her aunt Lizzy, mother to Jocelyn’s five(!) cousins and a surly and rather creepily intuitive maid by the name of Mabelle who hands her a shopping list of supplies she will need for her first day of school. Unable to sleep despite her exhaustion, Jocelyn sets out to acquire her supplies and immediately runs into Jameson, arguably the most beautiful boy she has ever encountered. After briefly introducing themselves and deducing they have similar shopping lists, the two decide to shop together as Jameson is far more familiar with the city than Jocelyn. With the exception of a few minor missteps, being declared fated lovers by the universe (that’s a fun scene!), and discovering the boy she is interested in is none other than a crappin’ Caldwell, the day goes pretty well.

Not completely understanding the rules of the game, Jocelyn approaches Jameson on their first day of school much to everyone’s horror! It becomes clear to Jocelyn that the whole mortal enemy thing is real and her cousins and the Caldwell’s are all kinds of serious about keeping her and Jameson separated. Both sides begin casting spells aimed at annoying and hurting the others despite knowing their world is meant to be kept a secret from those non-magical (hee hee, Muggles!) beings around them. Adding insult to injury or fuel to the fire (whichever you prefer), Jocelyn is placed among the Caldwell’s and completely isolated from the protection of her cousins at their weekly magical lessons. It is at one of these lessons that everyone discovers the lengths to which Jameson is willing to go to protect Jocelyn. From this moment forward everything in Jocelyn and Jameson’s world is irrevocably altered.
Though Jocelyn and Jameson are powerfully drawn to one another, they are hindered at every turn by their families and their family’s history with one another. For the most part, Jocelyn and Jameson have to sneak around when they can in order to see one another. Jocelyn is learning to tap into her own power, the very rare art of healing, and with Jameson, she can enhance and amplify her power thus allowing her to heal more people and for longer periods of time. One night Jameson takes Jocelyn to a remote village where her skills are put to the test and she comes face-to-face with the dark side of the world she now occupies. She also discovers her powers may run deeper than anyone initially suspected.

After the night on the bayou Jocelyn and Jameson’s story begins to take so many twists and turns that it will keep you turning pages like a fiend. There are interactions with one another both negative and positive, interactions with their respective families both positive and negative, and a near-constant stream of secret-revealing. (OH! I love secret-revealing!) Both try to hold on for the ride as best they can but there is a long and powerful history meant to keep them apart. That history is one of the most interesting secrets revealed and is a strong enough bit of information that it even draws Jocelyn’s mother to town! Now she is a mighty and powerful surprise and what she has to tell everyone will knock your socks off!!

The Bottom Line: Holy balls this book is good and there are several things that contribute to this outburst. Foremost on the list of awesome are the characters: Jocelyn and Jameson are both solid and compassionate characters who are drawn into a world of madness, lies, witchcraft, and voodoo. They are torn between their attraction to one another and their loyalties to their respective families. Backing these two are a whole slew of other characters I sincerely hope get more press time in future installments of the series; there are some wicked fun personalities among the Caldwell’s and the Weatherford’s and they need to be allowed to come out and play 
The plot line also makes me squeak a little: though I like the idea of fated lovers I like it a whole hell of a lot more that Faulty has kept this aspect of the plot subdued for the time being. I know Jocelyn and Jameson are meant to be together and eventually they will be but Falter has wisely chosen to allow these two time to get to know one another rather than falling into the now way over-used insta-love trap. By doing this, Falter has also allowed the deeper and richer plot line of the on-going (or is it?) Caldwell/Weatherford feud to take center stage. This is how it should be!! It is made clear in several instances how long this feud has been raging and the toll it has taken on both families so it therefore makes sense that Falter should (and does!) dedicate the bulk of the book to this topic. Appropriately, Jocelyn and Jameson are woven into and not allowed to overshadow the larger plot line. Well done Laury Falter, well done.
Essentially what you get with Residue is a well-written and well-planned novel that reads smoothly and easily from cover to cover. I am comfortable recommending this title to all YA+ readers.(less)

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Apr 24, 2013 Tee loves Kyle Jacobson rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2013-must-read, april-2013, atomr-book-tours

First I have to say that I love stories focusing around New Orleans and Witch Craft. New Orleans has such a rich cultural background and a history of all kinds of witch craft and voodoo that it intrigues me every time I read a story about it. Residue was no different for me and this is going to be a series I will read and re-read for years to come. It just grabs you into a new world and life that it will keep you on the edge of the seat.

Jocelyn is away at boarding school when she is told that sh...more

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Apr 25, 2013 Unabridged Bookshelf rated it 4 of 5 stars

Residue has a magic that is all its own. The draw is really in the Romeo and Juliet storyline mixed with magic. The Weatherford and The Caldwell are their own version of the Montague and Capulet of the world of magic. Jocelyn Weatherford who knew nothing about magic or her family feud until she landed in New Orleans finds herself right in the middle of an age old feud between two powerful magical families when she starts to fall for the handsome Jameson Caldwell. There is always a certain draw t...more Residue has a magic that is all its own. The draw is really in the Romeo and Juliet storyline mixed with magic. The Weatherford and The Caldwell are their own version of the Montague and Capulet of the world of magic. Jocelyn Weatherford who knew nothing about magic or her family feud until she landed in New Orleans finds herself right in the middle of an age old feud between two powerful magical families when she starts to fall for the handsome Jameson Caldwell. There is always a certain draw to two people falling in love despite being told it is impossible, and trying to convince their families to put their differences aside.

The story is really made by Jocelyn, and her determination to not let anyone form her opinions for her. Being raised outside the community and away from any of her family aside from her mother, Jocelyn does not jump right on board the Caldwell’s are the enemy bandwagon. This alone is one of the few reasons that Jocelyn and Jameson even consider starting a star-crossed romance. Jameson on the other hand has been raised to believe Weatherfords are evil, but meeting Jocelyn without knowing who she is first opens his eyes to the possibility that not all Weatherfords are evil.

The story is very well written, and it keeps you on your toes. Jocelyn is the type of character that I root for, because they stand up for the underdog and want to help anyone suffering. Jameson is the perfect love interest because he is kind, caring and wants to protect Jocelyn from all harm. It is really refreshing to read about a love interest who has nothing but good qualities. While the fated lovers storyline is overused in some cases, it works very well in Residue.

The ending of Residue left me wanting no wait needing more, and I will be adding the rest of the series to my TBR list! Laury Falter has created a world that has gotten me hooked. Residue is a powerful start to what I think is going to be a powerful series.

**Unabridged Bookshelf recieved this book from the author, in exchange for an honest review**(less)

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May 04, 2012 Roxana rated it 5 of 5 stars

What can I say about this book? That I absolutely love it? That I can't get enough of it? Yes & Yes!

Laury Falter definitely doesn't disappoint. She has done it again! I am a big fan of her Guardian Trilogy and fell in love with Maggie & Eran (especially Eran)!!!
Usually I know within the first couple of chapters if I'm going to like a book, love a book, or adore a book. With this one, it was ALL three of them. YES! That good.

I love how Jameson & Jocelyn were introduced. That was prett...more

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Apr 22, 2013 Carrie Ardoin rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: i-own-this, on-my-kindle, tour, witches

3.75 STARS

This book starts out with interesting events right from the beginning, as Jocelyn Weatherford sees a scar weirdly appear on her arm in the middle of class...in short order she is told she's descended from a long line of witches and is shipped off to New Orleans to meet the family she never knew was magical.

Jocelyn also meets Jameson Caldwell, with whom she has an immediate spark, only to have it crushed when she learns he's a member of a family hers has been feuding with for generation...more 3.75 STARS

This book starts out with interesting events right from the beginning, as Jocelyn Weatherford sees a scar weirdly appear on her arm in the middle of class...in short order she is told she's descended from a long line of witches and is shipped off to New Orleans to meet the family she never knew was magical.

Jocelyn also meets Jameson Caldwell, with whom she has an immediate spark, only to have it crushed when she learns he's a member of a family hers has been feuding with for generations. Dealing with this on top of coming into her powers is enough, but on top of that she also finds out she may just be a important link to the witchy world...

Let me get what I DIDN'T like about Residue out of the way. First, I'm from Louisiana, born and bred. I could find no information that stated that the author of this book is as well. With that said, the portrayal of the voodoo maid characters, and finding people with the names Boudreaux and Thibodeaux felt a little stereotypical to me. I've lived here my whole life and I have never met someone with the last name of Boudreaux...and we're not all that bad with the Cajun accent, either. In any event, there were also a couple of things that didn't make sense to me. Jocelyn accepts her fate after an amount of time, but after learning something so mind-blowing about herself, she never asked or was allowed to speak to her mother? After all, she knew all about it but kept Jocelyn out of that world (for reasons we later learn)...if I were Jocelyn I would have quite a few questions to ask mom. Finally, it was never really explained what the ministry that Jocelyn's mother works for does, and I still don't really understand it--there were a few other issues left unanswered for me as well.

So, what did I like? First off, Jocelyn herself. She makes it known from the beginning that she is a kick ass chick, and stands up for herself when necessary. But something about the hunky Jameson makes her tough girl exterior melt. Jameson was really sweet and patient with her, realizing that she was new to their world and giving her the answers and help she needed. Their relationship developed at a nice pace, there was no insta-love to be found here. And though there is a warring family theme going on, I never got the Romeo and Juliet vibe when Jameson and Jocelyn were together. He truly makes her a better person when they are together.

I loved the end and I know things are just heating up in New Orleans. I enjoyed the unique take on witcraft and having a story set in my home state. I definitely plan on reading the next books in this series. (less)

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Aug 07, 2012 Jillian rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: ya-paranormal

Review from busymomsbookreviews.com

This book starts with a girl named Jocelyn being moved from New York to New Orleans and finding out that she is a witch. The first day there she is sent to go get her school supplies and while she is shopping she meets Jameson. Even though there families hate each other due to various grievances done to both sides, they still like each other. Problems arise and the fighting escalates, at the same time other people who govern the witches start to invadeNew Orlea...more

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Apr 24, 2013 CreMonaCAM rated it 4 of 5 stars

"Then she countered by delivering the news that would change my life forever. “Jocelyn,” she said her tone steady and calculated. “You are in danger.”"

The fact that pretty quickly it's seems that we deal with a shared, but so impossible love make me very curious to see what the author had to offer. If she’ll manage to bring something special, not just on the story’s originality, but also regarding the feelings that she wants to awake to the reader. To my pleasure, Laury Falter did very well. Sh...more
"Then she countered by delivering the news that would change my life forever. “Jocelyn,” she said her tone steady and calculated. “You are in danger.”"

The fact that pretty quickly it's seems that we deal with a shared, but so impossible love make me very curious to see what the author had to offer. If she’ll manage to bring something special, not just on the story’s originality, but also regarding the feelings that she wants to awake to the reader. To my pleasure, Laury Falter did very well. She created main and secondary characters that I loved and sometimes they have dished what I thought will come. She created a diversified action that develops on a main line which is just started to be build and most likely will be exploit in the next volumes.

The fact that the romance (and only the carping ones might complain that impossible love stories filled the literature) is intertwined with the society’s story gives weight and specificity to it. The lovers are separated from their families’ common history, by what others have done. This shared history rise Pavlov reactions type, the logic judgment being completely eliminated. Resentments and prejudices are at the order of the day. From this point of view, I appreciate Jameson even more because he has to face the very beliefs in which he was raised, unlike Jocelyn which has the advantage of being able to "look" at things from outside.

Their relationship has a delicious beginning and continues as well. There are plenty, but not enough to be too many, strange situations where they need to choose sides, exploratory searches, confrontations and stolen moments that will surely get to the readers’ heart.

There are no idle moments, and when the action seems a bit slower it brings to you the necessary information. Along the way it will turn out that Jocelyn and Jameson have to face not only their families, but also something that seems out of control, because also in their world there is lust for absolute power and there are people that will do anything to get it. Tension and danger, innocence and love, humor or seriousness moments are inspired combined. And all takes place in the mist and illusions of magic that can mislead even the most careful person.

„I was smiling then, happy to have met him and having absolutely no premonion whatsoever that I’d just spent the day with my family’s most dangerous enemy.”

There are some slips, such as Jocelyn’s easiness when she reveals vital information that she promised to keep confidential, although she’s a smart girl and her mother taught her otherwise. Sometimes, rarely, there are some implausible situations, or explanations and indications that remain untold.

I liked a lot how the author ends each chapter. Every ending brings one reveal that is both a conclusion of what it was and the premise of what will follow.

And I must say that for a long time my husband hasn’t seen me smile while reading. Yes, I liked other many books, I told him about one or the other, but to smile to myself while reading has not happened for some time. Residue succeeded.

“Sometime, not right now because it would be suspect, but sometime soon – I’d like to kiss you, Jocelyn.”
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Apr 22, 2013 Chrissy (The Every Free Chance Reader) rated it 3 of 5 stars

Did I enjoy this book: This book was alright.

The beginning was rather slow. The middle got a bit more interesting. But it took half of the book before we found out the significance of the title, Residue. The end wasn’t bad. The last 40% of this book moved a bit more than the beginning.

I liked Jocelyn. She was strong, stubborn, and she was not a pushover. I really liked the fact that she didn’t just accept everything about her new life, her new world. It took quite a while for her to come to term...more

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Apr 23, 2013 Kirsty Vizard rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: review-copy, family-drama, paranormal, romance, witches, ya

"Two households, both alike in dignity
In fair Verona, where we lay our scene . . . "

Wait!! Wrong story! But . . .if Shakespeare had written his romantic tragedy about witches, it would have been Residue! The Romeo and Juliet of Laury Falter's story are Jameson and Jocelyn, who are 'fated lovers' but from the feuding witch families of the Caldwells and the Weatherfords.
Initially I was reluctant to trust Jocelyn, but I think this was because she had no understanding of her circumstances and was aw...more

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Apr 27, 2013 Marni rated it 5 of 5 stars

"Jocelyn." He waited for me to turn to and face him. "I'm sorry for not disclosing who I am. That was wrong - but I don't regret it. It gave me a little more time with you before we had to face reality."

I nodded and he started down the opposite end of the hallway. Then I stopped him.

"Jameson." I hesitated, wondering if I'd regret my next words. They seemed so simple but carried such weight. "I'm glad you waited."

Oh how I keep going back to this. I read it, reread it, three, four times and every...more "Jocelyn." He waited for me to turn to and face him. "I'm sorry for not disclosing who I am. That was wrong - but I don't regret it. It gave me a little more time with you before we had to face reality."

I nodded and he started down the opposite end of the hallway. Then I stopped him.

"Jameson." I hesitated, wondering if I'd regret my next words. They seemed so simple but carried such weight. "I'm glad you waited."

Oh how I keep going back to this. I read it, reread it, three, four times and every time it sent tingles through me and the deepest sighs. I'm not one for quotes and such, but Laury Falter knows how to write and this was perfect.

A story reminiscent of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. Two teens, two different families with a long history of feuding and an instant attraction to one another. One who knows the history of the family and the other about to learn it.

Jameson had just stepped in and defended me.

My heart went pitter patter with this. I'm also not one for book boyfriends, but I must say that I've found one in Jameson. How could you not swoon when he openingly protects the girl he's fallen for who his family despises just because she's from "that" family.

Set in present day New Orleans, the reader is not only invited into the world of witchcraft, voodoo and all things magical but becomes part of that world with the mystical magical wording of the author. Instead of scratching your head, wondering what's going on, you learn right along with Jocelyn and keep that knowledge throughout the book.

Jocelyn comes into the world of witchcraft much later than most who have abilities, but she is a quick learner and doesn't back down to challenges. She's a strong character and eventually accepts what she at first did not believe. She discovers than develops her special abilities while undergoing continuous manipulation and random acts of magical torture from members of the feuding family. Targeted again and again because of her relationship with Jameson and because she stands up for what and who she believes in, no matter what.

With so many stories out there about vampires, werewolves and shifters, I found this a good traditional book of witches, blossoming love and conflicts. Solid writing, interesting characters, action intertwined throughout, imagery that impacts the senses; this book is not only in the top five books I've read this year, but probably in the past five years. I recommend this to anyone who likes YA, witchcraft and a solid story.

I received this book from the author in return for an honest review and I can honestly say that I look forward to reading not only the remaining books in the Residue series, but anything written by Laury Falter. This is an author who knows how to tell a story and keep the reader captivated from beginning to end.
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May 03, 2012 Katinki rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: witches-magicians-et-al, ya-stuff-i-like

Solid 4 stars

After reading Ms. Falter's Guardian trilogy, which I thoroughly enjoyed (and have since re-read), I was looking forward to seeing what she'd come up with next.

Okay, and if I'm being honest, I wasn't expecting to be as enamored with Jocelyn and Jameson and their adventure as I was with Maggie and Eran, because well, it's hard enough to create a winning combo once, let alone twice.

But you know what? I am. I'm just a little bit in love with this new series. Really, Residue is a fanta...more

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May 15, 2013 Books She Reads rated it 4 of 5 stars

I went back and forth a bit on whether or not I was going to rate this as a three heart or a four heart. I went with a four heart because by the time I was finishing this book I wanted more. I wanted to keep reading and finish out the rest of Jameson and Jocelyn's story. The book started out pretty slow, understandably because when you have a paranormal setting the author has to make sure they do a good job of painting out this world they have created. If it was not for me being able to really l...more I went back and forth a bit on whether or not I was going to rate this as a three heart or a four heart. I went with a four heart because by the time I was finishing this book I wanted more. I wanted to keep reading and finish out the rest of Jameson and Jocelyn's story. The book started out pretty slow, understandably because when you have a paranormal setting the author has to make sure they do a good job of painting out this world they have created. If it was not for me being able to really like the writing style of Laury Falter I don't think I would have finished the book.

The first 60% of this book is pretty much back story and pieces of the puzzle that come together later. We are in the present and present events are happening that lead us forward but it is at a slow pace. Then there is the love story between Jameson and Jocelyn that we are front row for. At first I was a little blah about it because it is the cliché forbidden love situation going on. His family hates her family and the two families are never to be friendly to each other let alone fall in love.

"Is she worth the danger?" asked Isadora, not in warning but to test him.

"Isadora..." he drew in a deep, troubled breath. My heart leapt at Jameson's next statement, meant only for Isadora's ears. "I'm in love with her. Everything is worth it."

I was ready for this to play out like every other story that I have read that has forbidden love and for a while that is how I felt. Then once we get into the last 40% of this book all the story starts to fall together and we start to get a much more energized story line. We start to get all of the puzzle pieces that we got in the first 60% to fall into place in the last 40%. Bring the story to a climax and giving me a reason to read more.

Now that thing that sucks is that the book gets interesting and grabbing for my attention right when it is ending. The good news is that RESIDUE is book one of a four book series. The other titles including BIRTHRIGHT, SAVIOR and PROPHECY. All of which are already released so you don't have to wait to keep going. Now with that said I am really hoping that the momentum we had going at the end of RESIDUE will continue on into BIRTHRIGHT. I think I am going to be finding out because we get the prologue to BIRTHRIGHT at the end of RESIDUE and I wanted to keep on going, it continues right where RESIDUE left off.
(less)

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Jul 20, 2012 Ashley K rated it 4 of 5 stars

RATING - 3.5

This is a good little story, I did enjoy it. I felt there were a few developments that should have happened more - one being that I felt we didn't get to know or see the relationship blossom as much as I'd like. As a reading, you want to fall for the guy too. ;)

There were missing commas all in the book, but that's not so bad and could be over looked.
I just bought #2 and will continue the series.

I think it's different. I read a review where someone said it was a mix of Harry Potter,...more

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Apr 25, 2013 Andrea C. rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: romance, favorites, witches-wizards, paranormal, own

Romeo and Juliet on stereoids. That's an easy way to sum up this book.

When they initially meet, Jocelyn and Jameson do not know the other is a member of their archenemy's family - very Rome and Juliet-esque. Jameson does find out during this encounter but Jocelyn doesn't find out until she gets to school the next day. Speaking of school, I like that the author incorporated two schools: A normal high school and a once a week magic school for those who possess magic.

After a near battle at magic sc...more Romeo and Juliet on stereoids. That's an easy way to sum up this book.

When they initially meet, Jocelyn and Jameson do not know the other is a member of their archenemy's family - very Rome and Juliet-esque. Jameson does find out during this encounter but Jocelyn doesn't find out until she gets to school the next day. Speaking of school, I like that the author incorporated two schools: A normal high school and a once a week magic school for those who possess magic.

After a near battle at magic school between the Caldwells and Weatherfords - Jocelyn and Jameson excluded - Ms. Veilleux, the principal you could say, warns them that their families have caught the attention of The Sevens. The Sevens are a group of witches that have reined over all witches for centuries of years. Kind of like the rulers of witches and a group to be feared and respected.

There were times when the narration got tedious and repetitive. "Little did I know things were about to change... If I knew then what I know now... If only I had known how true those words were..." Okay, I get it. Shit is going to hit the fan. Also, at one point Jocelyn woke up to her cousin screaming and got fully dressed, shoes included, before going to see what happened. I don't know about you, but if I wake up to screaming, my butt is out the door in seconds. I'm not worried about my "white lace top, jeans, and a pair of brown leather books while in a rush for the door" (95). I could be wrong.

Luckily, those were the only two issue with narration I had. And the foreshadowing got less repetitive as the novel went on, so I'm so not a huge issue just a tad annoying.

I like the family drama aspect of the plot. While a majority of the plot stayed focused on the relationship between Jocelyn and Jameson - as the synopsis described - we are also introduced the underlying issue of The Sevens that I imagine will become more forefront in later novels.

Character wise, I was a big fan of the relationship between Jocelyn and Jameson, as well as them as individuals. We find out within the first few chapters - I want to say it was chapter two or three - that they are soul mates. The relationship that comes from their meeting is amazing and the revelations that we find out in the latter half of the book are very nice plot twists that give me no hesitation about continuing this series.(less)

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Apr 26, 2013 Laura rated it 4 of 5 stars

Having read and loved some of the books in Laury’s Guardian series I was really excited to read another one of her series’. This is a Romeo and Juliet style tale of forbidden love and feuding families with a magical twist.

I loved the start of the book as we were instantly thrown into the story. From Jocelyn discovering that there is more to her family than she would have ever guessed to the very end and the final moment, this book never once gets boring. There is action, mystery, magic, romance...more

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May 03, 2013 Julia rated it 5 of 5 stars

I enjoyed Residue for all the things I love to see in a good book, paranormal, young adult, amazing characters, and mystery. This book lured me in from the beginning, learning about Jocelyn and her background as a witch. I fell into her shoes and world easily.

The dangers that await Jocelyn Weatherford as she falls for a handsome Caldwell is unspeakable. The two families have been feuding for centuries and to cross that line is quite dangerous. Jocelyn was quite a character, strong and with spunk...more

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Apr 19, 2013 Heather Wood rated it 4 of 5 stars

Residue was a cute and fun young adult read. I loved the characters and the mythology behind a society of witches living in New Orleans.

The beginning of Residue was great. The reader got to learn all about Jocelyn’s heritage as a witch at the same time she does. The world building was fabulous and I felt myself transported to this school for the supernatural in New Orleans.

Jocelyn and Jameson were fantastic characters. I loved Jocelyn’s spunky side and her ability to stand up for herself. Jameso...more

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Aug 27, 2012 Nanette Bradford rated it 5 of 5 stars

such a great book. laury falter is a great writter adn residue is another hit.

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May 09, 2013 Tammy rated it 4 of 5 stars

In a word: a romantic and charming tale of witchcraft, secrets, star-crossed lovers and family rivalries.

I could tell from the gorgeous and sultry cover of Residue that this story about witchcraft in New Orleans was going to be good, and it was. Falter has brought together an unusual mixture of storytelling elements that somehow work well together. Residue is the first in the series, and although there is some sense of closure at the end of the book, readers are going to want to get the next boo...more In a word: a romantic and charming tale of witchcraft, secrets, star-crossed lovers and family rivalries.

I could tell from the gorgeous and sultry cover of Residue that this story about witchcraft in New Orleans was going to be good, and it was. Falter has brought together an unusual mixture of storytelling elements that somehow work well together. Residue is the first in the series, and although there is some sense of closure at the end of the book, readers are going to want to get the next book as soon as possible, since the author leaves us hanging at the end. This is one quick read that will keep you flipping pages, not only because of the suspense, but because of the slow brewing romance between the two main characters.

Sixteen-year-old Jocelyn Weatherford is attending school one day when an unexplainable scar appears on her arm out of nowhere. An astute school nurse brusquely informs her that she has fifteen minutes to go home, pack and get on a plain to New Orleans. Jocelyn is strangely accepting of this order and soon finds herself living a new life, in a quaint old New Orleans home with her Aunt Lizzie and her five cousins. Before long, she finds out that she is descended from a long line of witches, and she herself has latent powers that suddenly seem to be awakening. The scar on her arm was a warning that an old enemy is getting ready to attack, and Jocelyn must now attend “casting” classes with other witches and learn to harness her powers.

One day while shopping for school supplies, she meets an attractive boy named Jameson, who is also a witch. Their immediate attraction literally brings down the walls, but later they discover that they belong to two powerful witch families, the Weatherfords and the Caldwells, who have been at war with each other for hundreds of years, and they are forbidden to speak to each other, let alone start a relationship. But love has its own ideas, and when the two families find out some shocking truths about the magical judicial branch of witchcraft called The Sevens, they must decide whether to remain enemies or come together in order to protect themselves.

I loved the characters of Jocelyn and Jameson. Jocelyn is a rule-breaker who has perfected the art of sneaking out at night without getting caught. Jameson is determined to love Jocelyn even when his brothers and sisters are telling him to stay away from her. Their romance is sweet and innocent and perfect for YA readers. I liked the fact that this novel has an overall old fashioned feel to it. Falter’s writing is formal, and although the story is set in the present day (I’m assuming), there isn’t any of your typical teen slang or references to pop culture, which worked well with the subject matter. When the two discover that together they have a special ability to heal the sick, they go out of their way to visit hospitals and even brave the swamps to use this gift for good.

The tension in the story lies in a magical artifact that is given to Jocelyn, a rope of braided hair, that turns out to be extremely dangerous. There is also tension between the teen Weatherfords and Caldwells, and a great deal of the story describes the nasty and sometimes harmful spells they cast on each other as they embrace their family feud. Several family secrets are revealed that are painful for Jocelyn, and she must figure out a way to overcome the emotions these secrets evoke in her. Throughout it all is the mystical connection she feels with Jameson, and their Romeo and Juliet-like romance has its own tension. Will they be able to stay together, or will family history pull them apart?

A few awkward sentences here and there were a little distracting, but overall the writing was nicely done. And I did run across a couple of Twilight references, but I’m not sure if they were deliberately included, or simply a coincidence (a couple of scenes at school screamed Bella and Edward, and all of the Weatherford and Caldwell teens each have their own luxury sports car to zip around town in, just like the Cullens). But the author used some creative magical touches that I loved. For example, each family has their own specific gemstone that they carry with them or wear for protection. And Jocelyn’s ability to absorb residue was very cool, although I don’t want to tell you what it means and spoil the story!

This is a great start to an entertaining series, and luckily for us, the next three books are already available. Recommended for fans of YA paranormal romance that is light on violence but full of tension and that flippy feeling you get in your stomach when you've met the love of your life.

Many thanks to the author for supplying a review copy.

This review originally appeared on Books, Bones & Buffy.(less)

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Apr 22, 2013 Lex rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: fantasy, for-reviews, magic, pnr, retellings, blog-tour

I really didn't expect this book to be that good. Full review later. Will do one for my blog first. ;)

REVIEW
I still can’t believe that this book would be good. After three chapters in, I suddenly thought “this is a Romeo and Juliet retelling”. I was, I admit, disappointed when I come into that conclusion. Let me explain as to WHY.

First, I am NOT a fan of Romeo and Juliet love story. Second, their families are so RIDICULOUS. Third, the way they die is so ABSURD. I hate it. >:( Ugh. BUT, after...more

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Apr 16, 2013 Jenea Whittington rated it 3 of 5 stars

3.5 hearts

Residue is the first book in a series, besides the beautiful cover, it has a plot that was engaging. Jocelyn is a young girl that has had her world turned upside down, packed up and shipped off to live with family that she really doesn’t know. That’s not all that happens to her though, she is being told that she is a witch. Something she certainly want to believe. Jocelyn was head strong girl that’s for sure, and I really did like her spunk.

Jameson is every young girl wants from a lov...more

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Mar 17, 2013 Akilah Raines rated it 5 of 5 stars

ok I did not think I would like this book because it kind of started off slow and I wasn't into it but I kept reading and my mind changed. I couldn't put the book down. I initially was going to give this book a three then as I started getting into it I gave it a four but by the end of the book I decided on a five because I didn't sleep until I finished it and the ending left me wanting more! I definitely will be reading the rest of this series! (Full Review Coming Soon)

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May 17, 2012 Sarah Jane rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: young-adult-fantasy

I liked it, I might have given it more stars if there was more drama besides the drama between the two families or maybe more intense? But I am sure it was just setting it up for what's to come. I liked Jocelyn and Jameson.
I loved how she tied in the school from the guardian series and even kind of named dropped Maggie and Eran. But over all really liked it, just felt liked I needed more, more drama, more intensity, more about the characters and their relationships with each sibling. I didn't f...more

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Apr 23, 2012 Barbara rated it 5 of 5 stars

This was an amazing read! Residue was everything I'd hoped for after reading the Guardian Series. Another great beginning to a love story along with the suspense and action. It was difficult to put this one down! There were parts that made me cry- happy parts and sad. I love Jocelyn's journey and the love that grows with Jameson as she finds out who she is and where she fits in. I can't wait for the next one!

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Jun 01, 2012 Erin rated it 3 of 5 stars

While I loved the storyline, this book wasn't as stellar as the Guardian Trilogy. I wanted it to be -- it had all the same elements, and it was fast-paced despite the relative lack of action.....soul mates who didn't think they could be together, great dialogue between the two protagonists, and supporting characters who could have been a little more memorable. Don't get me wrong -- loved the book, but when compared to Falter's previous books, I just couldn't go 4 stars. It is still a solid read....more

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May 10, 2013 Fleta rated it 5 of 5 stars

I started reading this series as filler while waiting for the new Dannika Dark book to be released. I honestly didn't expect too much from it but it was so good that I couldn't put it down. I just went from one book to the next because I couldn't wait to see what would happen next. I read all 4 books in 4 days and loved every minute of them!

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Mar 12, 2013 Sarah rated it 5 of 5 stars

I'm not that into witches but this book made me like them. Like with the Guardian Trilogy (Laury Falter's other series,) I was quickly sucked in and am loving it so far. The characters are great and I'm very invested in how it all turns out for them. If you haven't checked out either trilogy, get on it! (:

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About Laury Falter

Laury Falter is the bestselling author of the Guardian Trilogy (Fallen, Eternity, & Reckoning). When she isn't writing, she likes to take her two stray dogs for walks and enjoy date nights with her husband.

Laury's debut novel, Fallen, hit Amazon's Top 100 list in three genres and the remaining two books in the trilogy made showings in the Top 100 of the same genres as well. With a new series a...more

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