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Mine to Possess (Psy-Changeling #4)

by Nalini Singh (Goodreads Author)

4.12 · rating details · 4,298 ratings · 301 reviews

Nalini Singh pulls away another dark layer of sheer desire, revealing passions unknown in her latest novel about the world of the Psy.

A woman returns from a leopard changeling's past, making him question his base animal instincts-and unlock the darkest secrets of his heart.

Paperback, 328 pages

Published February 5th 2008 by Berkley (first published 2007)

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Feb 03, 2010

Beanbag Love rated it

This installment of Singh's Psy-Changeling series was different in that neither of the two leads was a psy. I have to admit, I prefer that. The psy storyline always seems the same to me. We have to go through the whole 'awakening' thing and it always seems to present the same way. So this was a refreshing change and I liked the plot and story better.

However, the writing itself was weaker than the others. Singh reused several phrases to the point were I actually laughed a couple o...moreThis installment of Singh's Psy-Changeling series was different in that neither of the two leads was a psy. I have to admit, I prefer that. The psy storyline always seems the same to me. We have to go through the whole 'awakening' thing and it always seems to present the same way. So this was a refreshing change and I liked the plot and story better.

However, the writing itself was weaker than the others. Singh reused several phrases to the point were I actually laughed a couple of times. "His leopard stilled" or "he stilled" or "he went leopard still" could have been a drinking game. I got this picture of a guy who would freeze in mid-conversation and it was actually pretty comical when of course it wasn't meant to be.

Then there were the inner arguments for Talin. "I love him but he can't love me but it will kill him if something happens to me but is he only with me for loyalty? No, damnit, he cares!" and on and on and on. Really it felt more like padding.

The mystery and the story itself was very good though. And I really liked the romance (even with the repetitive phrases and inner monologues). At first it seemed a bit squicky because he sees a woman with his childhood friend's scent and appearance, but thinks his friend is dead. The last time he saw her she was eight. But his first thoughts about this mystery woman are sexual. Huh? Doesn't add up for me.

Thankfully we move on from there and it doesn't feel squicky anymore because we forget that little tidbit, but it would have been nice if his first reaction had been a bit more chaste.

Clay and Talin were friends in a low income apartment complex. She was an abused foster child and he was a changeling living with his crazy human mother who demanded he suppress his leopard half. He's older than Talin by about five years. They meet when she's three and helps him after he's gotten hurt outside and nobody bothers to notice. She's not afraid of him and he immediately becomes her best friend and protector. Until he goes too far with the latter and they're cruelly separated just when they need each other the most.

There are several things that make this a really nice setup. One, they pretty much bonded as children without the romantic side to it. Two, they were separated by tragedy and violence that served to not only mark their destinies, but to bring them back together. Three, they haven't seen each other since childhood and so are getting to know one another while continuing to have this base of knowledge (regarding their past traumas) but also a store of good memories to draw from. It's a nice mix.

There's murder and mayhem and bad things happen to kids. Nothing with the kids is too graphic, but you are in no doubt about it's existence. Justice is served and the next book is set up nicely.

So far, all the Psy-Changeling books have gotten four stars from me. I have criticism of all of them, but they're all good solid reads.

(edited for clarity)(less)

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Aug 29, 2011

Lady Jayne *~*The Beach Bandida*~* rated it

Shelves: romance-paranormal, author-nalini-singh, shifters, owned-read

Also reviewed at: Lady Jayne's Reading Den

3.5 of 5 Stars

I haven't reviewed book 3, Caressed by Ice, yet, but I wanted to get this one out of my system. Hmm...sounds bad, doesn't it?

Well...I have mixed thoughts/feelings about this 4th installment of the Psy/Changeling series. I’m sad that I didn’t love this one as much as I loved the first 3 books.

Clay Bennett, a sentinel of the DarkRiver leopard pack, grew up in the slums of the human world. He nev

...more

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Jun 05, 2011

Audrey rated it

Shelves: paranormal

This one felt a little jerky for me. It was still a good story, but I wasn't fully drawn into the romance aspect of it. Tally and Clay clearly have a past, but the way it stands between the two of them overwhelms what's happening between them in the present. I know that's part of the story (i.e., their finding a way to heal their relationship, particularly her psychological abuse wounds), but it was a little TOO much for me. I felt pulled out of the present story too often as they both (but esp...more

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Feb 17, 2011

Leah, Wiggle Wiggle Wiggle Wiggle Wiggle Yeah rated it

Shelves: wheres-the-bonfire, get-on-medication-youre-so-bipolar, series-psy-changeling, author-nalini-singh, 3-stars, scars-and-tats-and-piercings-oh-my, slap-a-bitch, horrible-heroine-alert

I cannot tell you how unbelievably disappointed I was in this book. It was just...UGH. From almost the first page, I knew I wasn't going to like it. How did I know that for a fact, you ask? One thing made it crystal clear to me that Mine to Possess and I were doomed for Splitsville: Talin. But I'll get to her later. You know, I really liked the concept of this book and I think that I could have even loved the way that Singh wrote it if I didn't hate Talin so much. The idea that she and Clay were...moreI cannot tell you how unbelievably disappointed I was in this book. It was just...UGH. From almost the first page, I knew I wasn't going to like it. How did I know that for a fact, you ask? One thing made it crystal clear to me that Mine to Possess and I were doomed for Splitsville: Talin. But I'll get to her later. You know, I really liked the concept of this book and I think that I could have even loved the way that Singh wrote it if I didn't hate Talin so much. The idea that she and Clay were friends from childhood, separated by violence and brought back together by violence, was an intriguing concept and I was really looking forward to it, particularly since I liked Clay in the previous books. But yeah, no. It was just bad.

Okay, now let's talk about Talin, who, for the purposes of this review, I am going to refer to as "Bitchface." And really, if you were inside my head while I was reading this, that is actually how I referred to and thought of her. So. Bitchface. Hated her. I do not understand those of you who loved her so damn much. Certainly I respect your opinion, but I just don't get it. Why was she so great? She was an obnoxious bitch from the very beginning, and her constant back and forth, hot and cold got really old after a while. And it was definitely constant. Through the whole damn book it was, "I'm afraid of him! No, I like him; he's my best friend! Ahhh, I'm so scared that Clay is going to hurt me! Waaaait, I love him!" Or "I can only be friends with him! I want him soooooooo bad! No, I can't be with him! Clay, you turn me inside out, I want you so much! Clay, you make me so mad! Wait, come here, my big, sexy kitty, so I can give you a blow job!" Also, "I love him so much and I know he loves me too! I'm afraid to open myself to Clay because I'm afraid he doesn't love me! He called me his mate! Wait, mate must have been a slip of the tongue! No, I know he loves me! Or, is he staying with me out of loyalty?" Another, "Clay is mine! No, he's not mine! Watch it, Faith, stupid bitch! I can't be with him! I want everyone to know that he's mine!" And, my absolute favorite with regards to Dorian, "Ugh, I don't like him! He's weird! *two pages later* Oh em gee, I adore Dorian! He's grown on me so much!" (Really? He "grew on you" after just two pages?) So yeah, Bitchface can take her bipolarness and her apple boobs and fucking leave! She needs to make up her damn mind. So yeah, I hated her so much that I am eternally grateful to be done with this book. And, as far as I can tell from everyone I've talked to, D.G. and Sam are the only two people who agree with me that Bitchface has earned the Super Bitch Award, along with the Too Fucking Stupid To Live Award.

Clay next. So, like I said above, I liked Clay in the first three books, thought he was a good character, and I was looking forward to reading his book. And, he is really great. He is. He's cute, sexy, intelligent, funny, loving, generous, protective, and so many other good things. However, I was disappointed with him during this book too. I just can't understand how he could fall for Bitchface. While I understand the fact that sometimes love is unexplainable, this was completely beyond my comprehension spectrum. Clay could have done so much better. I wanted his story to be so great but it just...wasn't.

There were very few characters who did not annoy me to the extreme: Dorian, Judd, Brenna, Kit, Tamsyn, Nate, and Jon. These seven characters saved the book from getting two stars, especially Dorian.

Despite my extreme disappointment in this book, I will in fact be continuing the series. I'm looking forward to Dorian's book next, Hostage to Pleasure. All I have to say is this: It better be damn good. If Dorian's book sucks, I am going to murder someone. Maybe I'll be able to find a way to jump into Mine to Possess and kill Bitchface...Hmm, definitely food for thought!(less)

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Jul 20, 2011

~♡♥Ang ♥♡~ rated it

Clay and Tally!!!
WOW WOW WOW What a book!!
An emotional one at that!
So much happens in this one, I really Enjoyed this one as well
can't wait to read the next one...
I love how we get to see every one from all the other books, thats what i love about this series!!!

Re Read July 2011~~ Still Loved it!!!

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Aug 29, 2010

Mollie *scoutrmom* rated it

Recommends it for: fans of paranormal romance

Shelves: paranormal, romance, read-in-2010, read-in-2011

A childhood bond matures ... beautifully. The suspense storyline enhanced the growing relationship. Friends from earlier stories in the series not only make appearances but advance the plot.

One of the strengths of this series is that one could remove the paranormal elements from the tale and still have a strong story line. Singh's Psy-Changelings are people with relationships first, and the paranormal nature of the characters only really factors in the suspense elements of the plo...more

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Sep 09, 2011

☆ јⓐⓓε ☆ rated it

· review of another edition

Shelves: audiobook, favorites, ok-that-was-hot

Can Clay be any more sexy?
"Please baby, I promise not to lick...much"

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Mar 25, 2011

Jessica rated it

Recommended to Jessica by: Calisto

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. The background plot was the only thing that saved this book. I had no patience for the heroine despite the fact that the author attempts to give her a background that will not only explain the character's actions and the way she treats others, but also tries to paint her in a sympathetic light. For me, it failed completely.

Psychologically, I can understand the attempt by the author to choose to make Talin, the heroine, act the way she does because of her past. And by act the way she d...more

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Feb 07, 2011

Annie the Destroyer *Leather Lust* rated it

Recommends it for: Nalini Singh fans and paranormal romance fans

Shelves: author-nalini-singh, ebooks, fave-heroines, favorites, books-i-go-rabid-over, my-hottie-harem, pnr, sex-me-up, science-fiction, shifters, read-in-2011

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. I have no idea why it took me this long to discover this series! I am such an idiot to have not found this sooner! Singh’s Psy-Changeling gets better and better with each book and I am seriously at a loss for words!

First off, Talin is my FAVOURITE HEROINE IN THE SERIES! I absolutely adore her! She’s a human, but she has as much bite as the other Psy girls and Brenna. Her past is a dark one and it has haunted her to this day. I will admit, I did tear up as I read some of the things th...more

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Nov 12, 2010

Monica rated it

Shelves: monica, own, reviewed

I lost and entire day to this book...but it was totally worth it. I love this series so far, every single book has been so wonderful and I can hardly wait until I can get back to the store to buy the next one. I think Ms. Singh has a way of drawing a reader into her story and making it feel important to you, making it life or death for the reader as well as the characters. I am so emotionally involved with these people I could be in the book myself. When one of them is happy, I am happy, if some...more

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Mar 29, 2010

Zeek rated it

Shelves: favorites-pnr, shifters

Singh continues to impress me with her Psy-Changeling world! She's built a cool world set in a future where mankind has evolved mentally and psychically, with "humans" caught somewhere in the middle. (They're all human, really- but the Psy's and Changlings are bit more!)

The only thing is- I didn't enjoy this one as much as the first three.

I had "issues" with the heroine.

Talin and Clay have known each other since they were children. But one ...moreSingh continues to impress me with her Psy-Changeling world! She's built a cool world set in a future where mankind has evolved mentally and psychically, with "humans" caught somewhere in the middle. (They're all human, really- but the Psy's and Changlings are bit more!)

The only thing is- I didn't enjoy this one as much as the first three.

I had "issues" with the heroine.

Talin and Clay have known each other since they were children. But one blood soaked day, Clay went berserk protecting her from an abusive foster father, landing himself in jail and scarring her for life. Believing her dead, he eventually joined up with the Darkriver pack, the feline Changeling pack of Lucas and Sascha (Slave to Sensation) and Faith and Vaughn (Visions of Heat).

Now, years later, Tally has decided to overcome her fears and look for him. She desperately needs too, because someone is harming the children she protects and he's still the strongest man she's ever known.

Talin is a wounded heroine. Intelligent and sensitive, she suffered great damage at the hands of her abuser and because of what Clay did that fateful day, she's built walls up against him, (and the world, for that matter), to keep herself sane.

I am glad to see Singh was consistent in giving Talin the natural defenses adult survivors of child abuse usually set up. What I didn't buy, was the reasons for Talin's distancing herself from Clay. She had to have known he did what he did to protect her, and her fearful reactions to him, even years later, got on my nerves.

I liked Clay a lot. He's on the edge, being separated so long from Talin, but that's what endeared him to me. I liked his protectiveness, and even his possessiveness. I just wish he had been paired with someone who matched him.

The "missing children showing up dead" plot line worked for me, although I was curious throughout the story as to how that connected with the illness she had and "odd scent" Clay kept picking up on with Talin- because there was obviously a connection. In the end, it all made sense to the rules Singh's been establishing in her world, but I totally saw it going a different way- though I couldn't put my finger on what.

This book's strength is the further development of the Psy/Changeling world. I did like the way she incorporated the regular old humans into their world, and appreciated how she established the psy-changelings' need for them. As others have noted, this book marks a turning point for the Psy's- they're losing their grip on power and are getting desperate to keep it. And- The Changelings are gaining strength. I'm anxious to see how it all pans out!

Good, but not as engaging for me as the previous ones!(less)

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Apr 19, 2011

Lady Vale rated it

· review of another edition

Shelves: pnr-romance

I never thought I would be saying this but this is definitely a series that REQUIRES a RE-READ! I'm so happy I read this book again, things are so different for me now. First time I rated it with 4 stars, but this time that I was aware how things would be and I already knew the new characters introduced in it, I was able to understand everything better. I realized this is a far more complex series that I thought it was and that without a re-read you are not really able to fully comprehend it. Ev...moreI never thought I would be saying this but this is definitely a series that REQUIRES a RE-READ! I'm so happy I read this book again, things are so different for me now. First time I rated it with 4 stars, but this time that I was aware how things would be and I already knew the new characters introduced in it, I was able to understand everything better. I realized this is a far more complex series that I thought it was and that without a re-read you are not really able to fully comprehend it. Everything is crystal clear to me now, I understand so many things I just skimmed the first time I read it...

In this instalment we get to read about Clay. We didn't know much about him from the previous books, just that he was a very dangerous enemy to have, a powerful sentinel and a lethal adversary; but we didn't know a thing about his past or childhood. Well, in this book we get to fully know him. Clay is half leopard, half human, although his DNA is fully leopard. He was raised between humans, which was something really interesting to read about as we get to see how his animal reacts while he is growing and doesn't have what it needs to be content. We are also introduce to his heroine while he remembers the past. Tally was his childhood sweetheart, the only person who could fully accept him and comprehend him. But both of them were raised in a terrible environment. Not only was she abused and violated in every way by the people who should have protected her but she was needing something she wasn't aware she needed nor what it was. All this got to break her, to make her chose a path that got her away from Clay.

But many years later they got to reunite. And I loved to read about this for a second time because it made me change fully my POV about Tally. The first time I read this book I didn't like her, I thought she was a weak heroine and just not what Clay needed at all. I just realized I was terribly wrong. Tally was one of the most strong heroines I have read about in this series. She was strong enough to stay sane after everything that happened to her, and she was able to defend herself even though she was human. I love Tally now, which is weird because I remember hating her the first read I did. I guess that this time, as I knew what type of heroine she would be, I got to appreciate other details better.

To sum up I just wanted to insist that everybody should make a re-read of this series, really. Things are so different after you read it once and have an idea of things you didn't the first time. I did my first read 2 years ago so things were not very clear on my mind. I had forgotten many things and it was amazing to remember everything all over again. As this is such a complex series, with many characters and paranormal background information, it's a huge help to do this re-read. This 2nd time I felt I already knew all the characters, so I never got mixed up with names or what their role was going to be. This way, I was able to focus on the really important stuff.

I LOVE THIS SERIES! I'm just getting ready for Hawke's book!(less)

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Jan 26, 2009

Cindy rated it

Shelves: keepers

The world of the Psys - an emotional-less society who live in constant touch with the mental stimulation of the Net - when one is not suited to the niche one has been assigned...

The world of the Changelings - a world of sensation, able to embrace both human and animals Changelings embrace emotion and touch...

The world of Humans - a world pressured from both of the other races, filled with people trying to get along...

Order is important with this series, each o...more

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Dec 22, 2008

new_user rated it

Recommends it for: paranormal romance fans

Shelves: paranormal-romance, racially-diverse

Another great book in the Psy-Changeling series, tied with Caressed by Ice for the best book in the series, in my mind. This book really focused on the deep relationship between Clay and Talin, who sort of grew up on the streets together. We learn so much about these two. Their histories are very well developed and the relationship between them so well done that I almost think the author had to have some experience with the kind of relationship that builds from childhood and on-- or else, she ju...moreAnother great book in the Psy-Changeling series, tied with Caressed by Ice for the best book in the series, in my mind. This book really focused on the deep relationship between Clay and Talin, who sort of grew up on the streets together. We learn so much about these two. Their histories are very well developed and the relationship between them so well done that I almost think the author had to have some experience with the kind of relationship that builds from childhood and on-- or else, she just knows people.

For those new to the series, it is important to begin from the first (even though it's the weakest of the series, not surprisingly) as the next -juicy- books build directly on the plot (and I'm so excited to learn more about the ongoing rebellion). I can't wait until we learn the identity of the Ghost. Note: There is a little less on the Psy this time around.

Singh's writing style remains formal and feminine, and in this stallment I particulary noticed her habit of using metaphor to explain emotion: "anger built a shield around him." I'm paraphrasing, but you get the idea. I'm not a big fan of this device. It's a little cheesy. I prefer a more practical, grounded fashion of conveying emotions, but for me, the detailed characters and gripping plot, and the world she constructs, politics and all, (even more -wondrously- detailed) make this little foible barely noticeable.

All of Singh's books have different degrees of edge. Some, as the first book was, are dark because of the hero's breaking control of his beast, for example. Mine to Possess, in particular, was a little intense, but I really enjoyed that aspect. Sometimes I'm in the mood (actually, usually in the mood) to appreciate a book that transports you from the most grueling, testing depths of humanity to the highs (because I need some kind of HEA, after all)-- and not in a soap opera, tears-and-tantrums fashion. Singh does this well here. I ached for Talin when I read the history that she can't put behind her, and I celebrated with her when she overcame it.

In other words, if you like angst (somewhat similar to Ward's), you'll find it here in spades (but in a mostly serious, non-cheesy, we're-not-just-using-this-as-a-device way, LOL). The author really gives it attention.

Also, for those who like their relationships on a more level footing, Clay is another intense Singh hero, all alpha and such, but there's a give and take between him and Talin that's very sweet, especially because he really does care so much about keeping her happy. He's not just overbearing, LOL. Needless to say, I recommend this for anyone who likes their paranormals, especially romantic paranormals.(less)

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Oct 21, 2008

Ladiibbug rated it

#4 Psy-Changelings series

3.5 stars, rounded up because the amazing world of the Psy, Changelings & humans is immensely enjoyable, as are the complex plots and wonderful characters.

I have to admit, this is my least favorite book of the series, because of the relentless intensity. Tally's serious abuse as a very young child and the repercussions (sp?) throughout her life were hard to read about. Clay, her love interest, a leopard changeling, is an uber-alpha, off-the-char...more

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Jun 02, 2010

Amy or "Ames" rated it

· review of another edition

Shelves: paranormal-romance, read-in-2010, weres-shifters

I didn't enjoy this one as much as the others. I loved Clay but Tally was harder to love despite her vulnerability and sad past.

The complex Psy have a complicated and frightening history. Each revelation about them reveals another reason to fear and loathe those responsible for implementing and maintaining Silence, and those who wish to take it a step further by trying to create a hive mind, thereby completely destroying individuality and the freedom of choice.

The edgy ...more

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Dec 05, 2011

Jill rated it

I was enthralled the entire time I was reading this book! I have already read some of the short stories by Singh and knew about the mated pair Clay talks about (Zach and Annie), Annie being the first human to enter the pack in this series, but the full length story of a human and changeling romance was intriguing.

I loved that Singh wrote the story so that Clay and Talin were friends as children. They memories of their childhood are brutal and beautiful. It becomes clear from the beginn...moreI was enthralled the entire time I was reading this book! I have already read some of the short stories by Singh and knew about the mated pair Clay talks about (Zach and Annie), Annie being the first human to enter the pack in this series, but the full length story of a human and changeling romance was intriguing.

I loved that Singh wrote the story so that Clay and Talin were friends as children. They memories of their childhood are brutal and beautiful. It becomes clear from the beginning that Clay had found his mate and that their separation was the source of both of their pain. Not only does Singh create a wonderful story but she tosses in enough problems to make happily ever after a bit further away than one would expect.

Because of the supposed death of Talin and Clay's incarceration because of the killing of Talin's foster father you realize that Clay's animal nature is more volatile than other of the DarkRiver Pack. It is when Talin walks back into his life that things start spinning out of control but it is her need for protection that helps him heal. Clay quickly because my favorite Changeling/Psy yet.

The Talin character endures far more than anyone should have to but through her pain as an abused child she sought solace in Clay. They were inseparable until Clay learned the truth about her situation and kills to protect a mate he doesn't realize he has at such a young age. While we discover something new about their separation, we also learn that in the intervening years Talin has spun emotionally out of control. She has shut down in aspects of her life that would have been nurtured and healed with Clay in her life.

The best part of this couple is they start realizing that all the pain they've endured is fixed when they accept that they are meant to be mated for life. But through all that they are fighting an evil Psy plot which involved the Psy's Forgotten and the children that Talin has deemed hers. The journey and adventure these characters set out on is wonderful and well worth the read.

I honestly wasn't sure I would like this series as much as I am. It isn't the most intellectual book in the world but it is a fantastic escape into the future and into fantasy.(less)

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Jun 14, 2011

Leontine rated it

Shelves: paranormal-romance, crack

I’m awestruck by the raw intensity of this novel and I almost feel the urge to flash a warning signal that before starting in a Psy-Changeling novel of Nalini Singh you better have food, drinks and a comfortable place to snuggle yourself in because you aren’t going anywhere before reading Mine to possess from first till last chapter. For me Nalini Singh takes the shapeshifter theme to a whole new level and draws me effortlessly into another world of the Psy-Changeling. Though I haven’t read the ...moreI’m awestruck by the raw intensity of this novel and I almost feel the urge to flash a warning signal that before starting in a Psy-Changeling novel of Nalini Singh you better have food, drinks and a comfortable place to snuggle yourself in because you aren’t going anywhere before reading Mine to possess from first till last chapter. For me Nalini Singh takes the shapeshifter theme to a whole new level and draws me effortlessly into another world of the Psy-Changeling. Though I haven’t read the previous novels I know where I’m heading off to!

Clay and Talin are childhood friends and that time is beautifully captured by the author in memories of feelings, events and actions they have as adults. The unraveling of all those feelings and of their actions they’ve taking after a certain moment in their life sometimes had the impact of a sledge hammer. That is how intense I felt them, felt with them as both children and adults, trying to find their way back to that unique, trusting and loving bond which can make you survive almost anything. Clay and Talin are a dynamic love couple whom sizzle with a passionate nature and came alive through the impeccable writing skill Nalini Singh possesses.

The DarkRiver pack leaped of the pages with its colorful characters and I just fell in love with the animalistic characterization of the Changelings. Clay is part human, part leopard changeling, the coexistence and sometimes struggle between those two sides in him is so life like told it gave his emotions all the more impact and authenticity making him all the more real to me. With this I could also empathize with, and understand Talin with her emotions and reactions to certain events even better. I felt that all the elements in this story flawlessly fits together in to a riveting romance story and for me, with that, it unexpectedly turned out to be such a gripping reading experience that it leaves me satisfied and closing the book with a fulfilled sigh.

I think that you will even appreciate Mine to possess more, if this is possible, when you’ve read the previous three novels in this Psy/Changeling series, reoccurring characters do show up and the plot does show signs that it finds its origin in another novel, I experienced this almost solely with the Psy world and its plans with the Implant Protocol. I also was on the edge of my seat plot wise; slowly Nalini Singh revealed it all and had some cutting edge moments making my heart skip a beat in relief. The Psy with their world and plans makes me root for every victory on them, because what would the world be without emotions, without passion or love, without all the good and bad things to feel, to learn from it and grow. The author created a very believable race with the Psy as she adds layers to their plans and ended this novel with a certain revelation I appreciated and was intrigued by its possibilities.

What a wild ride Mine To Possess turned out to be and I reveled in it until I closed the book with contentment and knowing I have another series to add to my bookshelves as Nalini Singh became an instant favorite author of mine.
(less)

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Apr 05, 2011

Sylvie rated it

Shelves: series-psy-changeling, urban-fantasy, romance-paranormal, of-shifters-canidae, of-shifters-felidae

Enriching lore - now we're getting down to it. 4th book in the series and all the intrinsic racial advantages and weaknesses come tumbling out. There is no such thing as the 'perfect' race - the Changeling and Humans may be territorial and emotional - but they are the reason for many senseless deaths over Territorial Wars. The darker emotions of Humans caused endless kids to suffer on the streets. As acknowledged by both Changelings and Humans, the Psy at least would rather eradicate emotions, e...more

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Mar 30, 2011

Nairabell rated it

Shelves: 5-star, read-in-2011, paranormal-romance

Clay Bennett is a DarkRiver sentinel, but he hides the scars of a traumatic childhood where he lost control and in a bloody rain of fury took a life and lost his only friend as a consequence. Clay has spent years believing Talin died, tempted to surrended to the darkness, until Talin reappears in his life. Talin McKade barely survived her childhood and has become a mentor reaching out to children in need as an adult. Now those children are disappearing and when bodies begin to be discovered, Tal...moreClay Bennett is a DarkRiver sentinel, but he hides the scars of a traumatic childhood where he lost control and in a bloody rain of fury took a life and lost his only friend as a consequence. Clay has spent years believing Talin died, tempted to surrended to the darkness, until Talin reappears in his life. Talin McKade barely survived her childhood and has become a mentor reaching out to children in need as an adult. Now those children are disappearing and when bodies begin to be discovered, Talin has no choice but to turn to the strongest person she knows...Clay.

This is the fourth in the awesome Psy-Changeling series (after Slave to Sensation, Visions of Heat and Caressed By Ice) and it is unique from the other books in that it features a changeling-human pairing. The plot moves a bit faster in this book as Talin's desperation to find the children she cares about really shines through. The narration is mainly from Clay and Talin's points of view, but like Caressed By Ice it does jump to other perspectives where necessary to continue the story.

It took me a while to warm to Talin as a lead character. There are lots of hints and leading statements as to how she was abused as a child, although no graphic details ever reach the page, and it's difficult to identify with someone who has survived that kind of trauma. Clay has always appeared as dark in previous books so it was no surprise to learn his childhood was less than perfect, but it was great to see how he became a member of DarkRiver. On the whole the romance was well developed and believable.

Again, the entire world of the books has been further developed. The Psy society is beginning to crumble under the continual assault of the Ghost, the Council are struggling to hold on to their power and Protocol I (to turn the psy into a completely controlled hive mind) is gaining priority. This book covers the human angle, as while humans have been mentioned in previous books their role in the psy-changeling-human world hasn't really been explained before now.

All in all, this was an incredible read that has set up Hostage to Pleasure perfectly. I can't wait to read it!

Plot: 10/10
Characters: 10/10
Ending: 10/10
Enjoyment: 10/10
Cover: 8/10

Overall: 48/50 (less)

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Mar 17, 2011

Netha rated it

Shelves: fantasy-supernatural

clay, one of the darkriver's sentinel terkenal penyendiri & selalu berada dalam bayang2 bahkan sascha pun tak mampu meraih clay sepenuhnya.

setelah 20 tahun clay bertemu kembali dengan tally, sahabat masa kecilnya. orang yg membuatnya membunuh untuk pertama kalinya & merusak sesuatu dalam dirinya.
tally adalah manusia biasa, saat menyaksikan pembunuhan yg dilakukan clay atas ayah asuhnya, walaupun itu untuk menyelamatkan tally, tetap saja tally ketakutan & lari dari clay.
bertah...more

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Jan 21, 2011

Sarah A. rated it

I wanted Clay's book to be better and was a tiny bit disappointed. However, the book was still good.

There's one thing that bothers me about the male characters. See, all of them "with the exception of Judd" - when they are mentioned in the books, and when they are not the lead men have distinct characters, but once they have a book of their own are almost all alike! I can't tell the difference really! They sound and act EXACTLY the same: Vaughn, Lucas, Clay! same lin...more

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Nov 01, 2010

Kristin rated it

Shelves: shifters

I've always had a soft spot for Nalini Singh's Psy-Changeling series. I was in a bit of a reading standstill, so I went searching through Amazon's recommendations for me. Imagine my surprise when I found out that I had missed one of the books in this awesome series! Thank you amazon for telling me about this, and thank you Nalini Singh for writing another stellar addition to this series!

I absolutely loved the star couple in this book. Clay was all the alpha male I have come to expect i...more

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May 22, 2010

Emily rated it

Shelves: keeper-shelf, reviewed-books

After so many plot elements got wrapped up in Caressed By Ice, I was interested to find out what would happen next in the series and where the story and characters would go from here. This is probably the point in the series where you can't really just jump right in and be able to figure out what happened in previous books; I'm a big fan of reading a series in order but it's more necessary in some cases than others. This is definitely a series that's more fun to read in order.

The her...moreAfter so many plot elements got wrapped up in Caressed By Ice, I was interested to find out what would happen next in the series and where the story and characters would go from here. This is probably the point in the series where you can't really just jump right in and be able to figure out what happened in previous books; I'm a big fan of reading a series in order but it's more necessary in some cases than others. This is definitely a series that's more fun to read in order.

The hero and heroine in this story have a History with a capital H. They grew up in foster care together and had the kind of sweet relationship that kids tend to have. That all changed when Talin realized that being a changeling meant that Clay had some attitudes and behaviors that were pretty foreign to her, and ran for it. The true details of that situation come out as the story goes on and both characters have to learn to deal with their own prejudices, which can be difficult to read sometimes.

Added to the mix is the introduction of the mysterious Shine Foundation, the surface purpose of which is to give disadvantaged kids a chance to shine. Turns out the kids have a lot more in common than just graduating from the school of hard knocks, and Talin, being a graduate of the program, is involved with the workings of the foundation without knowing its true purpose. Her devotion to the kids in her care is what brings her back to Clay, and ultimately is what starts healing the broken relationship between them.

The stories in this series keep getting more intricate, but one of my favorite things about this series, besides the really excellent dynamics between the couples, is the fact that the reactions of the characters to events in the story seem genuine. Talin and Clay have both made mistakes in the past, and the people who are important to them (particularly people in the Pack) are hesitant to welcome their new relationship. They're coming from a place of love and not wanting anyone to get hurt, but the fact stands that not everyone thinks the relationship is a good idea at first, which, given their history, is a pretty natural response.

This book gets a Scandalous Books designation for thematic content again. Talin's experience in foster care is brutal; there aren't a ton of details but the dire situation is clearly depicted. Again, nothing more intense than what comes up in your average prime time cop show but still, some people are not okay with that and I understand that.

The happily ever after in this story is a good one, because it affects more than just the primary couple. I was on vacation when I finished this book and I was really glad I'd brought the next book with me so I could find out what happens next.

Overall Grade: A-

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May 19, 2010

Crista rated it

Shelves: 3-star, paranormal, series

Reading this series for me is like chemistry was for me in college. I liked the subject matter and it was interesting but I found myself going "huh?" far to many times.

The psy-changeling world that Singh is showing us is very odd and complicated. I sometimes find myself frustrated and confused with all the psy-net talk and the "web of stars" twist. I like the idea of different species and of "pack loyalty", but the biofeedback/psy counsel/silence ideas ...more

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Nov 10, 2009

Melindeeloo rated it

You'll wish one of these Sexy Shifters was yours to possess

Dark River Sentinel Clay a protector of his leopardshifter clan walks the edge, just a breath away from turning rogue and having his leopard fully take over his human side. His leopard is barely leashed after having been denied for years, first when Clay was forced to live as a human with the mother who hated his animal side and then later, when he was truly penned in prison for killing a murderous abuser in order to save hi...more

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Nov 02, 2011

PAMMMMM rated it

Shelves: paranormal-romance, shape-shifters

Clay and Tally are childhood friends, and due to a traumatic experience they faced when they were kids, Tally ended up leaving Clay with terrible news that she was dead. When Tally came back asking for his help to look for and rescue her children, Kids she teaches in Shine. Clay finds it hard to refuse notwithstanding the fact that she betrayed and fears him now.

In Psy-changeling Series, every novel is different from one another and yet, they came up identical or equal to each other...moreClay and Tally are childhood friends, and due to a traumatic experience they faced when they were kids, Tally ended up leaving Clay with terrible news that she was dead. When Tally came back asking for his help to look for and rescue her children, Kids she teaches in Shine. Clay finds it hard to refuse notwithstanding the fact that she betrayed and fears him now.

In Psy-changeling Series, every novel is different from one another and yet, they came up identical or equal to each other. I realized that Clay and Tally’s relationship is the best I’ve ever read. Friends turned lovers isn’t new, sometimes cliché plot like that ended up cheap. But Singh created Clay and Tally and they nailed the best Friends-turned-Lovers plot. A friendship that blooms since they were kids gave a deeper, abiding friendship that even face with awful obstacles, sometimes agonizing and traumatic; the bond that they formed cannot be left unnoticed and easily forgotten. Although I find Tally’s characteristic a little off and sometimes irritating and I almost ended up hating her till the end, almost. But I can’t repudiate the fact that clay and tally are perfect to each other. Fine, the emotional that Singh deliver was too deep it affect and captivates me.

Clay never hides that appreciation and feeling he feels towards Tally albeit all the past and horrendous acts she done with herself and her body, Clay realizes that whatever it is, from the very start, Tally was his. And when Tally cannot anymore deny the raw need she feels when Clay touches her, they made love to each other and the bond they have become deeper with the addition of the mating bond. And even though I find the ending kinda impossible but yet possible, I know its confusing but don’t be. Sure, I know that Singh will never let Tally dies, but seriously, “that’s it?” I don’t know, but I find it lame. But the good news is, no matter my reaction on that part, it outweighs the emotional attachment that Mine Possess have on me.
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Jul 31, 2011

Jessica Wimberly rated it

Shelves: changling, interracial, nalini-singh, leopard, psy, shape-shifters

Clay Bennett is a powerful DarkRiver sentinel, but he grew up in the slums with his human mother, never knowing his changeling father. As a young boy without the bonds of Pack, he tried to stifle his animal nature. He failed...and committed the most extreme act of violence, killing a man and losing his best friend, Talin, in the bloody aftermath. Everything good in him died the day he was told that she, too, was dead.

Talin McKade barely survived a childhood drenched in bloodshed and...more

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Feb 17, 2011

Rabenfrau rated it

· review of another edition

Shelves: paranormal-romance, 2011

Der Gestaltwandlerleopard Clay Bennett ist unter Menschen aufgewachsen, eingesperrt in eine kleine Wohnung, zusammen mit einer Mutter, die den animalischen Teil seines Wesens stets verleugnet hat. Einzig seine Jugendliebe Talin McKade hat ihn so akzeptiert, wie er war. Sie war sein Rudel, sein Ein und Alles. Als Clay eines Tages beobachtet, wie Talin’s Pflegevater sie misshandelt, lässt er dem Leoparden in sich freien Lauf und tötet den Mann. Jedoch nicht ohne Folgen: Clay wird für Jahre ins Gef...moreDer Gestaltwandlerleopard Clay Bennett ist unter Menschen aufgewachsen, eingesperrt in eine kleine Wohnung, zusammen mit einer Mutter, die den animalischen Teil seines Wesens stets verleugnet hat. Einzig seine Jugendliebe Talin McKade hat ihn so akzeptiert, wie er war. Sie war sein Rudel, sein Ein und Alles. Als Clay eines Tages beobachtet, wie Talin’s Pflegevater sie misshandelt, lässt er dem Leoparden in sich freien Lauf und tötet den Mann. Jedoch nicht ohne Folgen: Clay wird für Jahre ins Gefängnis verfrachtet, gezwungen, sein tierisches Wesen in Zaum zu halten. Als er endlich entlassen wird bekommt er eine Nachricht, die ihn bis in sein tiefstes Inneres erschüttert: Seine Talin ist bei einem Autounfall ums Leben gekommen.

Noch Jahre später lastet dieser Verlust auf dem Mann, zu dem er wurde – ein Wächter der DarkRiver-Leoparden. Kraftvoll, gefährlich und von eiserner Selbstdisziplin beherrscht.

Da tritt plötzlich die Frau wieder in sein Leben, die er all die Jahre für tot hielt. Clay ist zutiefst verstört, doch er nimmt sich ihrer an. Talin bittet ihn um Hilfe, denn sie sucht einen Jungen, der wie viele andere vor ihm entführt würde. Sie fürchtet um sein Leben und Clay ist ihre einzige Hoffnung. Und auch sie selbst schwebt in Gefahr.

Clay riskiert alles um Talin zu helfen und sie zu schützen. Doch auch die Gefühle, die langsam zwischen ihnen aufflammen, werden auf eine harte Probe gestellt. Denn Talin verbirgt nicht nur ein dunkles Geheimnis vor Clay, sondern wird wieder von einer alten Angst ergriffen – der Angst vor dem Leoparden in Clay…

„Im Feuer der Nacht“ ist der vierte Teil der Psy-Changeling- bzw. Gestaltwandler-Reihe von Nalini Singh.

Endlich kommt Clay zum Zug, ein Charakter, der mehr noch als andere Mitglieder des Rudels der dunklen Seite nahe gekommen ist und stets zwischen den Grenzen zu schweben scheint. Dem Grund für diese Düsternis in ihm begegnet man hier in Person. Seine Jugendliebe Talin.

Beide Charaktere haben ihre Schattenseiten, Talin meiner Meinung nach sogar noch ein paar mehr als Clay. Glaubhaft und nachvollziehbar stellen sie sich den Schwierigkeiten die auf sie treffen: von außen, und auch von ihnen beiden heraufbeschworen. Besonders an Talin nagen Zweifel, allerdings ist es Nalini Singh perfekt gelungen, diese so darzustellen, dass man sie der weiblichen Hauptfigur auch abnimmt.

Singh schreibt durchweg fesselnd und frisch, wie man es bereits von ihr gewohnt ist und schafft mit ihrer Hintergrundstory um die entführten Kinder zusätzliche Spannung. Besonders ab dem dritten Band ist ein deutliches Konzept in ihrer Rahmenhandlung zu sehen, und allein um zu herauszufinden, wie sich alles weiter gestalten wird, muss man einfach weiterlesen.

Wie bereits erwähnt gelingt es Singh mit ihren Geschichten einen wahren Sog aufzubauen, dem man sich nur schwer wieder entziehen kann.

Zusätzliche Würze wird durch die wirklich sehr schön geschriebenen erotischen Szenen beigesteuert, die aber keinesfalls dominieren, was ich als sehr angenehm empfinde. Es wird wert gelegt auf die Charaktere und die Handlung, und nicht auf die Bettgeschichten.

„Im Feuer der Nacht“ wird allen gefallen, die die bisherigen Bände der Reihe ebenfalls mochten. Vielleicht nicht so stark wie „Eisige Umarmung“ jedoch voller Spannung und Leidenschaft und einfach definitiv einen Blick wert.(less)

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Sep 03, 2010

jD rated it

Shelves: series_paranormal, romance_shifters

Great installment to a well conceived series. I mean that sincerely inspite of all the other things I am going to say. I was much more invested in the Psy implosion going on in the background than Talin's constant whinning in the early chapters. I did not care about Clay either way. I am glad he found a mate but I just did not want to read his story. I want to get to Dorian, Riley, Mercy, and the alpha wolf (I forgot his name). Even the Ghost sounds interesting. I have not looked ahead at ...more

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About Nalini Singh

I've been writing as long as I can remember and all of my stories always held a thread of romance (even when I was writing about a prince who could shoot lasers out of his eyes). I love creating unique characters, love giving them happy endings and I even love the voices in my head. There's no other job I would rather be doing. In September 2002, when I got the call that Silhouette Desire wanted t...more

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Quotes from Mine to Possess

“How can I be angry with the other half of my soul?" he asked, his tone so tender it tore little pieces out of her heart. "I have a temper, baby, and I know I fucking brood. But even if I act pissed, even if I snarl, it doesn't mean I love you any less. Your soul shines, Tally, and I'm so damn glad it shines for me.” — 30 people liked it

“Clay, if anyone followed anyone, it was
me tagging along after you. I didn’t dare order you around.”
“Load of shit,” he muttered, but she thought she heard a softening in his tone. “You fucking made me
attend tea parties.”
She remembered his threat before the first one: Tell anyone and I’ll eat you and use your bones as
toothpicks ."
Talin to Clay” — 13 people liked it

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Mine to Possess (Psy-Changeling #4)

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