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Rapture
Rapture Renee Field Mermen aren't real. That's what biologist Jamie Winters thinks until a gorgeous Greek god enters her life and drowns her, forcing her to rapture into a Siren. Used to logic, she can't quite come to terms with Seth Cutter's magical undersea realm or the fact that he's a macho Titan. Being a Siren causes Jamie's hormones to go into overdrive, which isn't good when she realizes that's exactly what Seth was hoping for. Sure, the sex is out of this world, but she's not about to change her character. As Prince of the North Seas, Seth is used to having his commands followed. A decade of exile on land was easier than having to deal with the sexy-as-sin Siren who tips the scales of his existence and doesn't listen to one word he says. They must overcome their prejudices to recover stolen relics that are key to the undersea kingdom, stop a deadly plague and destroy an underwater diva who wants to rule the roost. Are they two souls destined for each other or will the Fates decide otherwise? Seth knows firsthand, Fate can be a bitch.
209 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 27, 2007
4 people are currently reading
132 people want to read
About the author
Renee Field
42 books54 followersRenee Field grew up next to the Atlantic Ocean in Nova Scotia, Canada. She is a multi-genre author who enjoys writing romance, young adult, women’s fiction and speculative fiction. Her first romance novel, Rapture, received an EPPIE Award for Best Paranormal/Fantasy Romance for an e-book. The EPPIE is the longest-standing, most-inclusive e-book awards and are run by the Electronic Publishing Industry Coalition. She has published books with Ellora's Cave and HQN Spice Briefs.
Under her pen name, Renee Pace, she writes realistic nitty gritty novels where teenagers come of age and edgy dark teen paranormal novels with strong female characters. Her first young adult novel, Off Leash, was a semi-finalist in the 2011 Amazon Breakthrough Novel Contest and has been in the Top 100 Amazon Paid ranking for Best Coming of Age story numerous times. The Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award (ABNA) was a contest sponsored by Amazon.com, Penguin Group, Hewlett Packard, CreateSpace and BookSurge to publish and promote a manuscript by an unknown or unpublished author.
When not writing, she's an active community volunteer. Renee is a member of Romance Writers of Atlantic Canada.
Check out Renee’s books at www.reneefield.com
Follow her:
TikTok at https://www.tiktok.com/@reneefieldwriter
https://www.facebook.com/ReneeFieldRo...
https://twitter.com/ReneePField
https://www.instagram.com/field.renee/
Under her pen name, Renee Pace, she writes realistic nitty gritty novels where teenagers come of age and edgy dark teen paranormal novels with strong female characters. Her first young adult novel, Off Leash, was a semi-finalist in the 2011 Amazon Breakthrough Novel Contest and has been in the Top 100 Amazon Paid ranking for Best Coming of Age story numerous times. The Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award (ABNA) was a contest sponsored by Amazon.com, Penguin Group, Hewlett Packard, CreateSpace and BookSurge to publish and promote a manuscript by an unknown or unpublished author.
When not writing, she's an active community volunteer. Renee is a member of Romance Writers of Atlantic Canada.
Check out Renee’s books at www.reneefield.com
Follow her:
TikTok at https://www.tiktok.com/@reneefieldwriter
https://www.facebook.com/ReneeFieldRo...
https://twitter.com/ReneePField
https://www.instagram.com/field.renee/
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
January 11, 2012
As PNR/UF lovin' reader, I was thrilled to receive a free copy of this book through Read2Review. I always enjoy a great story with elements of Greek Mythos, Sirens, and Merfolk in general. What I discovered while reading Renee Field's labor of love, is that this book is a diamond in the rough.
In the beginning, the story moved a little slow, but that was due to the fact that the author was laying a foundation for the reader. However, the story did not drag itself along, it sped along nicely telling you the story of family conflict, love found, discovery of identity, unlikely enemies, and rebirth.
After the first few pages, I was captivated and compelled to find out what happens next. Trying to squeeze this book into my schedule, I read this book at home, and then at work on my breaks & then back at home, staying up until 1:30am trying to find out how the story ends.
While this book wasn't exactly perfect, for me, it was a gem. I'm hoping that Ms. Field will take this story & develop it into at least a 3 part series. It's an inventive story, whose characters deserve to be heard. I would definitely be interested in learning more about how Queen Helem came fall in love with her King, and I would love to learn more about Seth and the other characters as well.
Overall, I'm giving this book 3 1/2 stars.
In the beginning, the story moved a little slow, but that was due to the fact that the author was laying a foundation for the reader. However, the story did not drag itself along, it sped along nicely telling you the story of family conflict, love found, discovery of identity, unlikely enemies, and rebirth.
After the first few pages, I was captivated and compelled to find out what happens next. Trying to squeeze this book into my schedule, I read this book at home, and then at work on my breaks & then back at home, staying up until 1:30am trying to find out how the story ends.
While this book wasn't exactly perfect, for me, it was a gem. I'm hoping that Ms. Field will take this story & develop it into at least a 3 part series. It's an inventive story, whose characters deserve to be heard. I would definitely be interested in learning more about how Queen Helem came fall in love with her King, and I would love to learn more about Seth and the other characters as well.
Overall, I'm giving this book 3 1/2 stars.
January 17, 2012
Seth, a North Seas Titan Prince, has been banished to the mainland for not following a law of his mardom, is called home. Also banished was his twin brother, Darius, who hasn't been called to return. The boys meet Jamie, a marine biologist, who is working for the company that has captured their sister. During the rescue, per his sister's request, they kidnap Jamie and bring her with them. Unbeknownst to Seth, Darius, and Jamie herself, she is a Siren. Of Royal lineage none the less.
Jamie's boss, bent on proving that merpeople exist, chases down Seth and Jamie in a boat on the sea. Where Jamie, afraid of water, is forced into her true Siren form and taken to Seth's mardom. Jamie is now left with a choice. Return to human form forever, losing all memory of Seth and his people. Or, stay with her soul mate.
Of course that is an edited version and there is a lot more going on that I will not divulge. Read it yourself! I really enjoyed the merpeople. The story was well written from the kingdom under the sea (No not Ariel's) to the steamy love scenes.
Jamie's boss, bent on proving that merpeople exist, chases down Seth and Jamie in a boat on the sea. Where Jamie, afraid of water, is forced into her true Siren form and taken to Seth's mardom. Jamie is now left with a choice. Return to human form forever, losing all memory of Seth and his people. Or, stay with her soul mate.
Of course that is an edited version and there is a lot more going on that I will not divulge. Read it yourself! I really enjoyed the merpeople. The story was well written from the kingdom under the sea (No not Ariel's) to the steamy love scenes.
January 27, 2012
Wow , a merman/aquaman !! This was definitely a likeable and enjoyable read . Although i found it to be really fast-paced at times , i couldnt help but love the intensity of the story growing on you .
Rapture by Renee Field really surprised me . The characters in the book were witty , funny , humourous , a tad believable and exciting to get to know to . What i really enjoyed about it was that there were two plots running simultaneously and are connected to each other . The connection was not predictable (atleast for me) and the ending left me wondering , whether we would witness a sequel to it or not . On the whole a pretty enjoyable read .
Rapture by Renee Field really surprised me . The characters in the book were witty , funny , humourous , a tad believable and exciting to get to know to . What i really enjoyed about it was that there were two plots running simultaneously and are connected to each other . The connection was not predictable (atleast for me) and the ending left me wondering , whether we would witness a sequel to it or not . On the whole a pretty enjoyable read .
January 17, 2012
I signed up for an ARC because I liked the premise, haven't read a good PNR in a while, and hoped it might be interesting. While the story itself was not too bad, the whole thing just didn't quite live up to what I was looking for.
I find one of the most irritating things in a book is when an author feels the need to spell everything out, and just doesn’t have enough faith that the reader will see what they are getting at. There are many examples in this book, add to that mutterings like "her secret garden" and "womanly essence," and it just wasn't for me.
I find one of the most irritating things in a book is when an author feels the need to spell everything out, and just doesn’t have enough faith that the reader will see what they are getting at. There are many examples in this book, add to that mutterings like "her secret garden" and "womanly essence," and it just wasn't for me.
July 27, 2018
AUDIOBOOK edition
A mermaid story with a fresh twist, following Jamie, her surprising discovery after the chance meeting with Prince Seth. Sparks fly from their first meeting, but the chemistry between them keeps them coming back for more. Danger, suspense, action mixed with sweet romance and the hot variety too with a great HEA ending makes for an enjoyable listen. The 3 Fates' side story is a interesting addition, wonder what happens to them next. - 4 stars
I am glad I gave a chance to this story from a new-to-me author, Ms. Field, looking forward to more in the series. Great choice in voices, both warm and smooth, versatile for the many characters. - 4 stars
A mermaid story with a fresh twist, following Jamie, her surprising discovery after the chance meeting with Prince Seth. Sparks fly from their first meeting, but the chemistry between them keeps them coming back for more. Danger, suspense, action mixed with sweet romance and the hot variety too with a great HEA ending makes for an enjoyable listen. The 3 Fates' side story is a interesting addition, wonder what happens to them next. - 4 stars
I am glad I gave a chance to this story from a new-to-me author, Ms. Field, looking forward to more in the series. Great choice in voices, both warm and smooth, versatile for the many characters. - 4 stars
January 26, 2012
So...I didn't like this book at all. I would give it one star but it was very well written that it just didn't seem fair. Maybe it was the premise getting in the way, or maybe it was the type of sexual content (not the sex itself, mind you) or maybe I wasn't in the right state of mind to read this book, but it's just not right. I'll be happy to forget this story, and that's something I rarely say. Hell, it took me forever to finish the damn thing!
Anywho, this story is about Titans and Sirens and celestial beings and all that good stuff. A woman who is afraid of drowning and is apparently a Siren misplaced at birth, lives her entire life on land and has no idea of her true heritage. A Titan who has banished to land comes across aforementioned woman and instant sexual attraction arises. Throw in life-threatening drama from the land, sea, and the Gods at every turn, and sex all over the place, and you have the gist of this tale. Well, there's a little more to it, like family bonds, honor, and finding one's true self but those are greatly overshadowed by what was mentioned above.
What did I like? Well, this was my first mermaid story since The Little Mermaid and I can honestly say I enjoyed the adult premise and lack of sing-song-everything-is-happy that I expected to encounter. Also, the author did a very good job of developing the undersea world and explaining how transformations took place from one species to another. Age old questions seemed to be answered, at least for me, and it wasn't the typical "It happens because I wrote the story and I say so," response. Rational was used to create the fairytale, and for a person of reason who delves into the paranormal for a release it's quite calming.
I didn't like a whole lot, however. I didn't enjoy how the plot was laid out. Great outline, bad execution. Also, the emotions that were expressed by the characters seemed to be forced, or highly unlikely even in the worst of situations. I couldn't see anyone looking at their kidnapper and saying, "You just tried to kill me, but let's go do the nasty," (not a direct quote, and just an example). I understand that a certain race of beings may be more sexual than humans and so the act would be done at different times for different reasons but, really? A little too much. Furthermore, some of the relationships themselves bordered on non-realistic, and under false pretenses.
Oh! Let's not forget the weird Sisters of Fate and how they jump in and out the story at odd times and their ending makes NO sense to me whatsoever. I don't even know why the author including them in the story at all. What they did for the story I will not say, but the author could have easily thrown in a couple well-placed thoughts from a few characters and left it at that. Or, at the very least, offer up a little more understanding like what was done with everything else in the book. I'm not saying basic comprehension isn't obtained, I'm just saying there are questions lingering.
Overall, this book didn't suit my tastes by any stretch of the imagination. A few changes would have made it easier to consume, quicker to devour, but I seriously doubt I'll be looking for a spin off of this story. Another book by the author? Maybe, after lovely reviews and a few sample chapters.
Anywho, this story is about Titans and Sirens and celestial beings and all that good stuff. A woman who is afraid of drowning and is apparently a Siren misplaced at birth, lives her entire life on land and has no idea of her true heritage. A Titan who has banished to land comes across aforementioned woman and instant sexual attraction arises. Throw in life-threatening drama from the land, sea, and the Gods at every turn, and sex all over the place, and you have the gist of this tale. Well, there's a little more to it, like family bonds, honor, and finding one's true self but those are greatly overshadowed by what was mentioned above.
What did I like? Well, this was my first mermaid story since The Little Mermaid and I can honestly say I enjoyed the adult premise and lack of sing-song-everything-is-happy that I expected to encounter. Also, the author did a very good job of developing the undersea world and explaining how transformations took place from one species to another. Age old questions seemed to be answered, at least for me, and it wasn't the typical "It happens because I wrote the story and I say so," response. Rational was used to create the fairytale, and for a person of reason who delves into the paranormal for a release it's quite calming.
I didn't like a whole lot, however. I didn't enjoy how the plot was laid out. Great outline, bad execution. Also, the emotions that were expressed by the characters seemed to be forced, or highly unlikely even in the worst of situations. I couldn't see anyone looking at their kidnapper and saying, "You just tried to kill me, but let's go do the nasty," (not a direct quote, and just an example). I understand that a certain race of beings may be more sexual than humans and so the act would be done at different times for different reasons but, really? A little too much. Furthermore, some of the relationships themselves bordered on non-realistic, and under false pretenses.
Oh! Let's not forget the weird Sisters of Fate and how they jump in and out the story at odd times and their ending makes NO sense to me whatsoever. I don't even know why the author including them in the story at all. What they did for the story I will not say, but the author could have easily thrown in a couple well-placed thoughts from a few characters and left it at that. Or, at the very least, offer up a little more understanding like what was done with everything else in the book. I'm not saying basic comprehension isn't obtained, I'm just saying there are questions lingering.
Overall, this book didn't suit my tastes by any stretch of the imagination. A few changes would have made it easier to consume, quicker to devour, but I seriously doubt I'll be looking for a spin off of this story. Another book by the author? Maybe, after lovely reviews and a few sample chapters.
January 22, 2012
I received this book as a part of the Read 2 Review program.
I’ve never read a story about Titans and Sirens. So, most of the story was a real treat. The mythology and the main storyline of the story was really pretty good. What troubled me about the story was the sex. Don’t get me wrong. I’m no prude believe me. But in reading this story, I might have given it a five if not for the sex or reducing the amount of it. I just felt like there were two different stories that were shuffled together. The sex in the beginning of the story felt like a bad B-movie with cheesy lines. The sex in the middle of the story made sense and fit right. The sex towards the end of the book was overwhelming and could have really used some editing. The sex at the end of the book was ok. I guess another big problem for me is the love at first sight. While I believe in lust at first sight I have a real problem with the other.
Ignoring that and a few other pot holes, the story was very interesting. And Seth was surely swoony worthy. So would I recommend. Yes, I think that my issues were personal and not the fault of the writer or her style. The ending was very interesting and I have to wonder if there will be a sequel. Will I read, yes! I was torn over the rating. I think I settled at 3.5. I’ve rounded up.
I’ve never read a story about Titans and Sirens. So, most of the story was a real treat. The mythology and the main storyline of the story was really pretty good. What troubled me about the story was the sex. Don’t get me wrong. I’m no prude believe me. But in reading this story, I might have given it a five if not for the sex or reducing the amount of it. I just felt like there were two different stories that were shuffled together. The sex in the beginning of the story felt like a bad B-movie with cheesy lines. The sex in the middle of the story made sense and fit right. The sex towards the end of the book was overwhelming and could have really used some editing. The sex at the end of the book was ok. I guess another big problem for me is the love at first sight. While I believe in lust at first sight I have a real problem with the other.
Ignoring that and a few other pot holes, the story was very interesting. And Seth was surely swoony worthy. So would I recommend. Yes, I think that my issues were personal and not the fault of the writer or her style. The ending was very interesting and I have to wonder if there will be a sequel. Will I read, yes! I was torn over the rating. I think I settled at 3.5. I’ve rounded up.
January 11, 2012
I have never read mermen / siren novels before, so I was very excited about this book. My oh my… what a way to be introduced into this category. I was captivated from the first page to the very last, I could not put this book down.
The two main characters, Jessie and Seth are so awesome! They have so much freaking chemistry and they really don’t disappoint at all – I mean, my glasses were steaming up with the way these two were carrying on.
Jessie is very serious about her education and career and works super hard to reach her goal in life. At first I thought Jessie is a real marshmallow, but when danger lurks, she is front and center to protect those she loves.
Seth… hubba hubba – Can I have me some of that??! He turns Jessie’s world upside down and takes her away from what she knows. He wants her and that’s that. He has yet to learn that Jessie is not the type to sit back and let people / mermen dictate to her.
I absolutely love the world that the author has created in this novel. Renee Field is an amazing writer. I will definitely be reading more of Renee’s novels in the future!
The two main characters, Jessie and Seth are so awesome! They have so much freaking chemistry and they really don’t disappoint at all – I mean, my glasses were steaming up with the way these two were carrying on.
Jessie is very serious about her education and career and works super hard to reach her goal in life. At first I thought Jessie is a real marshmallow, but when danger lurks, she is front and center to protect those she loves.
Seth… hubba hubba – Can I have me some of that??! He turns Jessie’s world upside down and takes her away from what she knows. He wants her and that’s that. He has yet to learn that Jessie is not the type to sit back and let people / mermen dictate to her.
I absolutely love the world that the author has created in this novel. Renee Field is an amazing writer. I will definitely be reading more of Renee’s novels in the future!
January 16, 2012
Rapture:
R2R Review:
I am a paranormal diehard, but this was my first under the sea read. I was excited about the mythology that was mixed in as well. He a Mermen, she is human. He is a prince, and she is a scientist. He kidnaps her and she thinks he is crazy. He needs to go home to under the sea, as a prince with his kind becoming extinct, he need to find a solution, and she wants to stay on dry land, even after she discovers that she is truly home. During this there is good and evil lurking in the background, involving other kingdom’s in the sea, as well as the Fates.
For me this was a slow read, I felt like I wanted to skip paragraphs to get to the good stuff, however that meant I missing things and had to go back and re read. I did enjoy this book, the characters were awesome and were well written. I like the idea of the storyline, the book ends with several cliffhangers, and I am hoping that there is a “next” book. If this is the beginning of a series, it was a great start and the reason that the book is wordy to lay the ground work down.
R2R Review:
I am a paranormal diehard, but this was my first under the sea read. I was excited about the mythology that was mixed in as well. He a Mermen, she is human. He is a prince, and she is a scientist. He kidnaps her and she thinks he is crazy. He needs to go home to under the sea, as a prince with his kind becoming extinct, he need to find a solution, and she wants to stay on dry land, even after she discovers that she is truly home. During this there is good and evil lurking in the background, involving other kingdom’s in the sea, as well as the Fates.
For me this was a slow read, I felt like I wanted to skip paragraphs to get to the good stuff, however that meant I missing things and had to go back and re read. I did enjoy this book, the characters were awesome and were well written. I like the idea of the storyline, the book ends with several cliffhangers, and I am hoping that there is a “next” book. If this is the beginning of a series, it was a great start and the reason that the book is wordy to lay the ground work down.
January 23, 2012
So I got this as a R2R and it's not my normal choice of book having never read anything with mermen. That being said it was pretty good. It did take me a little while to get into but I have to say that the story kept me interested.
Jaime and Seth had alot of chemistry and even tho it was instant I did enjoy seeing the constant push/pull between them.
Darius was a far more interesting character to me and I had hoped to learn a little more about him,he also needs his Sokhan and HEA maybe in a second book? (Crossing fingers)
I liked the kinda cliffhanger ending with Ratan and Sesta, can't wait to see if something happens to them. He is one very intimidating character and I think the love of a strong woman will bring him to his knees. Can't wait!
Overall, I enjoyed it very much.
Jaime and Seth had alot of chemistry and even tho it was instant I did enjoy seeing the constant push/pull between them.
Darius was a far more interesting character to me and I had hoped to learn a little more about him,he also needs his Sokhan and HEA maybe in a second book? (Crossing fingers)
I liked the kinda cliffhanger ending with Ratan and Sesta, can't wait to see if something happens to them. He is one very intimidating character and I think the love of a strong woman will bring him to his knees. Can't wait!
Overall, I enjoyed it very much.
August 10, 2012
So there is this girl that is being kidnapped (all in good cause) and on the same day (trapped on the island guarded by dogs) she gets hot and heavy on the beach before the house. Logic? None.
On the same beautiful day the kidnapper (of course unnaturally handsome and all) insists on taking her with him (and his twin brother) to save a dolphin. Sweet right? He must be so righteus and kind hearted! I must go with him, why not! WRONG!!! You have been kidnapped, yes? It's night, yes? It's two strange adult man on one bout, yes? In the ocean? And the storm is coming? And you're afraid of water?????
There is nothing wrong with this story? Nothing? Really???
???????
I can't stop the question marks. I just... can't.
On the same beautiful day the kidnapper (of course unnaturally handsome and all) insists on taking her with him (and his twin brother) to save a dolphin. Sweet right? He must be so righteus and kind hearted! I must go with him, why not! WRONG!!! You have been kidnapped, yes? It's night, yes? It's two strange adult man on one bout, yes? In the ocean? And the storm is coming? And you're afraid of water?????
There is nothing wrong with this story? Nothing? Really???
???????
I can't stop the question marks. I just... can't.
July 29, 2014
As I follow the changes in publishing, I’m making more of an effort discover and read independent/hybrid authors. I want to explore the freedom of independent publishing, look at the business of being an author/publisher (or self-pubbed, though that phrase still carries an unsavory connotation to most writers). Plus, I want new stuff to read.
Normally, I prefer fantasy and sci-fi, adult or YA. But since I’m venturing into the romance arena with my group series, Perfect Coven, I thought I’d be more adventurous in my choices and try to read some independent romances.
I picked Rapture for three reasons:
(1) the price was right (free);
(2) it’s the first in a series. If I like(d) it, there are more to read; and
(3) It’s about mermaids. Who doesn’t love mermaids?
I really love mermaids. So, first thing – not enough mermaid lore! The world building was sketchy; there really is no explanation of how this world is supposed to work. There are mardoms – kingdoms – and our hero is, of course, a prince. But the divisions are never explained, nor why the mardoms are divided they way they are. The magic has no rules. Our heroine just keeps discovering new stuff she can do. We don’t know if other sirens (the term for mermaids) can do these things or if Our Heroine is just special.
Oversexed – yes, this is a romance, but really? The only things sirens are good for (or at) is sex. They all grow super-large breasts and long, long hair – that’s part of the siren magic, but we really don’t know why they need the long hair and super-sized breasts, because they don’t seem to be good for anything except to drive the titans (the mermen) insane. And the titans are slaves to their hormones. They’ll have sex in the middle of a fight, and I don’t mean a domestic dispute, I mean a battle with other titans. In fact, our hero and heroine do that once. Or maybe twice. The sex scenes kind of ran together.
Of course, the over-smexing is explained away by Sokhan, meaning destined lovers or some such. Yeah, they see each other and have no choice but that one person and being near that one person brings on the hormone attacks. Anywhere. Anytime. Even in labor. We want Our Hero and Our Heroine to have sex, of course we do, but we need a reason other than Supernatural Bonding life-soul-mate thingy says we MUST DO IT NOW. And now. And one more time. Proper time, place and reason be damned, this is SUPERNATURAL URGE THAT MUST BE FULFILLED!
The conflict in this one is resolved easily, too easily really. Not a lot of impediments to Our Hero and Our Heroine getting to the good stuff, which, as I said, can occur during a firefight or labor. Titan/Siren hormones must also be super-sized.
On to technical issues I had with this book.
First, Our Heroine begins having impure thoughts about Our Hero immediately. Which, hey, he’s super-duper sexy-hot, so why not? But we were told that Our Heroine is a science-minded, practical, focused type who wants to get her Ph.D. In fact, she spends a lot of her time wanting to work on her thesis. When she’s not hormonal.
The Ph.D. issue kind of goes away when she “raptures” (turns into a siren) and sexes up Our Hero the first time. Hence my theory that siren hormones are super-sized and siren magic is all sex-based. Which would actually fit with a lot of mermaid mythos, if handled correctly, as in, there needed to be a mythos.
The writing was choppy. The story didn’t flow as it should have. Changes in attitude occurred at a page turn, with little reason for the about-face. Conflicts were resolved easily, and occasionally off-camera. Also, editing. It needed more.
Our Hero and Our Heroine are standard tropes, used in standard ways, and uninteresting. Our Hero is an exiled prince, Our Heroine is a princess who has been raised in obscurity away from the sea and doesn’t know who or what she is.
Though I think the basic idea is interesting, there are problems with this book. There needs to be better world-building, an actual structure. There needs to be a magic system, talents and abilities, and one impacting the other, with a structure as to which applies where. That structure needs to be consistent. Conflicts need to actually impact the characters, cause them to make decisions that lead to actual story not just sex.
Normally, I prefer fantasy and sci-fi, adult or YA. But since I’m venturing into the romance arena with my group series, Perfect Coven, I thought I’d be more adventurous in my choices and try to read some independent romances.
I picked Rapture for three reasons:
(1) the price was right (free);
(2) it’s the first in a series. If I like(d) it, there are more to read; and
(3) It’s about mermaids. Who doesn’t love mermaids?
I really love mermaids. So, first thing – not enough mermaid lore! The world building was sketchy; there really is no explanation of how this world is supposed to work. There are mardoms – kingdoms – and our hero is, of course, a prince. But the divisions are never explained, nor why the mardoms are divided they way they are. The magic has no rules. Our heroine just keeps discovering new stuff she can do. We don’t know if other sirens (the term for mermaids) can do these things or if Our Heroine is just special.
Oversexed – yes, this is a romance, but really? The only things sirens are good for (or at) is sex. They all grow super-large breasts and long, long hair – that’s part of the siren magic, but we really don’t know why they need the long hair and super-sized breasts, because they don’t seem to be good for anything except to drive the titans (the mermen) insane. And the titans are slaves to their hormones. They’ll have sex in the middle of a fight, and I don’t mean a domestic dispute, I mean a battle with other titans. In fact, our hero and heroine do that once. Or maybe twice. The sex scenes kind of ran together.
Of course, the over-smexing is explained away by Sokhan, meaning destined lovers or some such. Yeah, they see each other and have no choice but that one person and being near that one person brings on the hormone attacks. Anywhere. Anytime. Even in labor. We want Our Hero and Our Heroine to have sex, of course we do, but we need a reason other than Supernatural Bonding life-soul-mate thingy says we MUST DO IT NOW. And now. And one more time. Proper time, place and reason be damned, this is SUPERNATURAL URGE THAT MUST BE FULFILLED!
The conflict in this one is resolved easily, too easily really. Not a lot of impediments to Our Hero and Our Heroine getting to the good stuff, which, as I said, can occur during a firefight or labor. Titan/Siren hormones must also be super-sized.
On to technical issues I had with this book.
First, Our Heroine begins having impure thoughts about Our Hero immediately. Which, hey, he’s super-duper sexy-hot, so why not? But we were told that Our Heroine is a science-minded, practical, focused type who wants to get her Ph.D. In fact, she spends a lot of her time wanting to work on her thesis. When she’s not hormonal.
The Ph.D. issue kind of goes away when she “raptures” (turns into a siren) and sexes up Our Hero the first time. Hence my theory that siren hormones are super-sized and siren magic is all sex-based. Which would actually fit with a lot of mermaid mythos, if handled correctly, as in, there needed to be a mythos.
The writing was choppy. The story didn’t flow as it should have. Changes in attitude occurred at a page turn, with little reason for the about-face. Conflicts were resolved easily, and occasionally off-camera. Also, editing. It needed more.
Our Hero and Our Heroine are standard tropes, used in standard ways, and uninteresting. Our Hero is an exiled prince, Our Heroine is a princess who has been raised in obscurity away from the sea and doesn’t know who or what she is.
Though I think the basic idea is interesting, there are problems with this book. There needs to be better world-building, an actual structure. There needs to be a magic system, talents and abilities, and one impacting the other, with a structure as to which applies where. That structure needs to be consistent. Conflicts need to actually impact the characters, cause them to make decisions that lead to actual story not just sex.
June 8, 2012
A Good Story Spoiled
I was looking to take a bit of a break from Young Adult Fiction yet still wanted to continue researching my never to be published novel and thought that Renee Field's Rapture was going to be just the thing. Sadly, while it was a fairly good story, it could have been better. Let me set the stage for you.
We have two princes exiled from their undersea realm and forced to live with - ugh! - humans for the past 10 years. We also have an Amazon of a graduate student working on her master's thesis concerning infectious diseases among marine life, a dolphin who's the younger sister of the aforementioned princes, a betrothed princess from a rival undersea realm who's a tri-sexual - in other words, she'll try anything - and a baffling disease that threatens the royal line of the aforementioned undersea realm. Throw in the fates and a crazed marine researcher and there you have it.
The graduate student, is really an orphaned siren who was brought up in the human world. Seth, one of the two exiled princes meets her while paying a call at the research institute to examine the dolphin who turns out to be his youngest sibling. The sparks & hormones fly and we're treated to pages of on-again, off-again lust. He doesn't know just what she is and neither does she. Seth repeatedly exercises extreme forbearance in dealing with his strange, irresistible attraction to Jamie and the reader wants to say "just get on with it" which is what they eventually do.
And that is what spoils this story; an overabundance of S-E-X. Please do not get this reviewer wrong. He has nothing against sex - just ask his wife - but the ongoing lust moves Rapture from the realm of romantic fantasy to that of a thinly veiled sex novel. Ms Field spends plenty of time on the sexy bits but seems to lose track of some plot points along the way. The star-crossed couple are so involved with saving and/or healing each other as well as dealing with threats to their realm that the issue of the unknown malady goes completely by the board.
Jamie is a woman of science whose rational mind has trouble dealing with the fact that she has a tail attached to her suddenly voluptuous body and is living under the sea with a magical race of merfolk. She finds herself lost, confused, purposeless and instantly pregnant. As she adjusts to the life sub-aquatic, the fact that she could find purpose and put her scientific skills to work in identifying a cure for the disease is completely overlooked for the sake of one last bit of mer-nookie.
One of the most interesting characters is the siren-cum-dolphin of a younger sister. The red-haired teenager appears on and off throughout the story but the reader doesn't learn too much about her other than she has a crush on one of the undersea warriors.
Renee Field had the makings of a good story - with or without sex - but there seems to be too much going on at times and the effect is somewhat chaotic. It is worth reading - especially if you want to get your blood pumping - but fails to live up to its promise.
I was looking to take a bit of a break from Young Adult Fiction yet still wanted to continue researching my never to be published novel and thought that Renee Field's Rapture was going to be just the thing. Sadly, while it was a fairly good story, it could have been better. Let me set the stage for you.
We have two princes exiled from their undersea realm and forced to live with - ugh! - humans for the past 10 years. We also have an Amazon of a graduate student working on her master's thesis concerning infectious diseases among marine life, a dolphin who's the younger sister of the aforementioned princes, a betrothed princess from a rival undersea realm who's a tri-sexual - in other words, she'll try anything - and a baffling disease that threatens the royal line of the aforementioned undersea realm. Throw in the fates and a crazed marine researcher and there you have it.
The graduate student, is really an orphaned siren who was brought up in the human world. Seth, one of the two exiled princes meets her while paying a call at the research institute to examine the dolphin who turns out to be his youngest sibling. The sparks & hormones fly and we're treated to pages of on-again, off-again lust. He doesn't know just what she is and neither does she. Seth repeatedly exercises extreme forbearance in dealing with his strange, irresistible attraction to Jamie and the reader wants to say "just get on with it" which is what they eventually do.
And that is what spoils this story; an overabundance of S-E-X. Please do not get this reviewer wrong. He has nothing against sex - just ask his wife - but the ongoing lust moves Rapture from the realm of romantic fantasy to that of a thinly veiled sex novel. Ms Field spends plenty of time on the sexy bits but seems to lose track of some plot points along the way. The star-crossed couple are so involved with saving and/or healing each other as well as dealing with threats to their realm that the issue of the unknown malady goes completely by the board.
Jamie is a woman of science whose rational mind has trouble dealing with the fact that she has a tail attached to her suddenly voluptuous body and is living under the sea with a magical race of merfolk. She finds herself lost, confused, purposeless and instantly pregnant. As she adjusts to the life sub-aquatic, the fact that she could find purpose and put her scientific skills to work in identifying a cure for the disease is completely overlooked for the sake of one last bit of mer-nookie.
One of the most interesting characters is the siren-cum-dolphin of a younger sister. The red-haired teenager appears on and off throughout the story but the reader doesn't learn too much about her other than she has a crush on one of the undersea warriors.
Renee Field had the makings of a good story - with or without sex - but there seems to be too much going on at times and the effect is somewhat chaotic. It is worth reading - especially if you want to get your blood pumping - but fails to live up to its promise.
April 25, 2012
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I have to say that this subject matter is not the norm for me, I tend to roam freely in the land of magic, vampires, and werewolves. So when a book comes along that wants to tackle a different group of paranormals, I tend to get pretty excited about it. After all everyone wants fresh take on the genre they like to read, after all it keeps things from getting repetitive.
Generally speaking the book was an enjoyable read. Especially as the book moves on past the beginning, the characters start to feel more organic, and as a reader you can kind of get behind them and their individual stories more, and therefore the book is more enjoyable. I do have to say I wish we reached this point a little bit earlier in the book, because in the beginning I did feel like it started out to slowly. I think for me the fact that it was a unique idea/a topic I hadn't read before made me give the book more latitude, so the beginning wasn't too bad for me.
I do have to say there were a couple of problems with the book in my eyes. And honestly they are some of the same issues I have with several other books. To start off, sometimes I really didn't understand the characters, one minute I did and everything felt fine and organic, and then the next minute a switch would flip the character would have a completely different emotional response to something and I was left feeling a little confused. I think the author could have clued me into the characters reasoning, or maybe put in more build up to be emotional shifts, but that was one of the issues I had.
I also have to say that while I enjoy paranormal romance (and I really do, the genre has grown on me over the years), I think some of the sex in the book could have been cut done. The reason why I say this is, to some extent I felt like some of the scenes weren't organic to the characters and were just padding to the book (or giving the reader what they want). For me though I need the intimate scenes to make sense to the characters, to feel organic. Also the first couple sex scenes were bordering on the cheesy line, but as the book got going the scenes felt more organic and less cheesy.
Overall, I think if you are in the market for a new paranormal romance, that is heavy on the romance then you should try out this book. Also I think you have to give the author props from going against the "industry norm" and picking subject matter that not everyone would be familiar with. So if you want something new and fresh you should try out this book.
I have to say that this subject matter is not the norm for me, I tend to roam freely in the land of magic, vampires, and werewolves. So when a book comes along that wants to tackle a different group of paranormals, I tend to get pretty excited about it. After all everyone wants fresh take on the genre they like to read, after all it keeps things from getting repetitive.
Generally speaking the book was an enjoyable read. Especially as the book moves on past the beginning, the characters start to feel more organic, and as a reader you can kind of get behind them and their individual stories more, and therefore the book is more enjoyable. I do have to say I wish we reached this point a little bit earlier in the book, because in the beginning I did feel like it started out to slowly. I think for me the fact that it was a unique idea/a topic I hadn't read before made me give the book more latitude, so the beginning wasn't too bad for me.
I do have to say there were a couple of problems with the book in my eyes. And honestly they are some of the same issues I have with several other books. To start off, sometimes I really didn't understand the characters, one minute I did and everything felt fine and organic, and then the next minute a switch would flip the character would have a completely different emotional response to something and I was left feeling a little confused. I think the author could have clued me into the characters reasoning, or maybe put in more build up to be emotional shifts, but that was one of the issues I had.
I also have to say that while I enjoy paranormal romance (and I really do, the genre has grown on me over the years), I think some of the sex in the book could have been cut done. The reason why I say this is, to some extent I felt like some of the scenes weren't organic to the characters and were just padding to the book (or giving the reader what they want). For me though I need the intimate scenes to make sense to the characters, to feel organic. Also the first couple sex scenes were bordering on the cheesy line, but as the book got going the scenes felt more organic and less cheesy.
Overall, I think if you are in the market for a new paranormal romance, that is heavy on the romance then you should try out this book. Also I think you have to give the author props from going against the "industry norm" and picking subject matter that not everyone would be familiar with. So if you want something new and fresh you should try out this book.
June 6, 2014
The first book in the Titans series is a thrilling and action packed read. Used to logic, biologist Jamie Winters is forced to come to terms with a world that defies all logic when a sexy as sin, honest to goodness Siren drowns her and forces her to rapture into a Siren. Before she has time to adjust to those circumstances, she’s finds out he’s is the Prince of the North Seas, she’s overwhelmingly attracted to him and oh wait let’s not forget the underworld diva who wants to rule the roost.
This fast paced and smooth flowing plot keeps readers on their toes with suspense, action, drama and romance. The author brings the story to life with well written events and scenes which inspires vivid images that capture the imagination and have the reader feeling as if they are part of the story and the well orchestrated action scenes are believable and exciting drawing the reader deeper into the story. The strong compelling characters are easily related to and grab the reader’s attention from the very beginning.
The attraction between Seth and Jamie is hot enough to boil the seas and the sex scenes are hot and steamy, but the relationship is what has the sparks exploding throughout the ocean. Seth is a prince, this means he is used to having things his way, boy is he in for surprise, not only is Jamie not the type to be the ‘little woman’ she’s not sure she wants to be part of this underwater world. The reader can’t help but get caught up in all their drama and the danger that seems to lurk around every corner for these two.
The author has created a fantastic world of Titans and Sirens with her own refreshingly different elements that add extra spice to the story and enchanting characters. I was totally caught up in the story from the beginning and I hope that there is a another book in the series soon as I have already read and enjoyed the second one.
This fast paced and smooth flowing plot keeps readers on their toes with suspense, action, drama and romance. The author brings the story to life with well written events and scenes which inspires vivid images that capture the imagination and have the reader feeling as if they are part of the story and the well orchestrated action scenes are believable and exciting drawing the reader deeper into the story. The strong compelling characters are easily related to and grab the reader’s attention from the very beginning.
The attraction between Seth and Jamie is hot enough to boil the seas and the sex scenes are hot and steamy, but the relationship is what has the sparks exploding throughout the ocean. Seth is a prince, this means he is used to having things his way, boy is he in for surprise, not only is Jamie not the type to be the ‘little woman’ she’s not sure she wants to be part of this underwater world. The reader can’t help but get caught up in all their drama and the danger that seems to lurk around every corner for these two.
The author has created a fantastic world of Titans and Sirens with her own refreshingly different elements that add extra spice to the story and enchanting characters. I was totally caught up in the story from the beginning and I hope that there is a another book in the series soon as I have already read and enjoyed the second one.
January 28, 2012
R2R Book Review
So I was given the chance to read Rapture and when I read the synopsis, I was highly intrigued. I have read lots of paranormal, but merpeople just aren't on the list...So, I thought I would give it a try.
As I have finished this book I found that I really did like it, but what holds me back is the fact that the book should have ended yet there were added scenes that just really didn't have to be there. Maybe it was the way they were brought in or introduced, because the scenes themselves were great to read, but it just felt like they were forced...
Now, with that said and that really being my only gripe, I liked reading about the undersea world. Renee Field wrote a fantastic tale that encompasses myth and new spark of legend that kept me on the edge of my seat for most of the book. Rapture is action packed, with some interesting twists, and the meeting of soul mates that explodes with passion, loyalty, and love!
An intriguing read that I would definitely recommend for someone that is looking for something a little different and for a love of the sea!
So I was given the chance to read Rapture and when I read the synopsis, I was highly intrigued. I have read lots of paranormal, but merpeople just aren't on the list...So, I thought I would give it a try.
As I have finished this book I found that I really did like it, but what holds me back is the fact that the book should have ended yet there were added scenes that just really didn't have to be there. Maybe it was the way they were brought in or introduced, because the scenes themselves were great to read, but it just felt like they were forced...
Now, with that said and that really being my only gripe, I liked reading about the undersea world. Renee Field wrote a fantastic tale that encompasses myth and new spark of legend that kept me on the edge of my seat for most of the book. Rapture is action packed, with some interesting twists, and the meeting of soul mates that explodes with passion, loyalty, and love!
An intriguing read that I would definitely recommend for someone that is looking for something a little different and for a love of the sea!
September 6, 2012
Titans and Sirens among us.
Renee Field creates a fanciful, tactile world in her book rapture that is written in the tradition of fairytales, but with a modern twist. Her damsel, Jamie has just the right amount of distress and determination to make her relatable. I was drawn in by the rugged sensitivity of Seth, her hero who has more than one desirable talent. He has all the qualities you’d expect from a prince; a high sense of duty and honor with a dose of selfish arrogance that gives him an edge. The chemistry between the two is tangible.
Rapture is a sweet, yet dramatic visit into a colorful world of magical undersea creatures whose sex drives are as strong as the currents that call them home. It is a complex story with multiple leads that tie together in the end. If you like strong and stubborn heroines matched with even stronger alphas then Rapture is for you. Renee Field takes pains to represent a detailed and sensible construct for a world where Titans and Sirens exist and walk in disguise among humans. It’s easy to get lost for an afternoon inside this sprawling story.
Renee Field creates a fanciful, tactile world in her book rapture that is written in the tradition of fairytales, but with a modern twist. Her damsel, Jamie has just the right amount of distress and determination to make her relatable. I was drawn in by the rugged sensitivity of Seth, her hero who has more than one desirable talent. He has all the qualities you’d expect from a prince; a high sense of duty and honor with a dose of selfish arrogance that gives him an edge. The chemistry between the two is tangible.
Rapture is a sweet, yet dramatic visit into a colorful world of magical undersea creatures whose sex drives are as strong as the currents that call them home. It is a complex story with multiple leads that tie together in the end. If you like strong and stubborn heroines matched with even stronger alphas then Rapture is for you. Renee Field takes pains to represent a detailed and sensible construct for a world where Titans and Sirens exist and walk in disguise among humans. It’s easy to get lost for an afternoon inside this sprawling story.
January 28, 2012
Thanks R2r for a chance to read this. It was a refreshing change for my reading habits. I found it be an enjoyable, easy read. Nice blend of family conflicts, loyalties and enemies, love, self discovery and being open to change. Kudos to Ms. Field for her use of mythology in the story. It was interesting but not overpowering. I also enjoyed her descriptions of the undersea world and the transformations.
The main characters had great chemistry. It was nice to see Jamie blossom into a stronger woman then she originally believed herself to be. I have a tough time dealing with weak females, so initially I was not sure if I would be able to connect with her. Seth was totally swoon worthy.
My only disappointment was I would have liked more back-story. How Jamie came to be orphaned and her growing up? More about Seth and Darius’s time on land. How did Seth’s neighbor know what he was? So many unanswered questions, and with the cliffhanger ending, what will become of them all? I hope we get to find out.
The main characters had great chemistry. It was nice to see Jamie blossom into a stronger woman then she originally believed herself to be. I have a tough time dealing with weak females, so initially I was not sure if I would be able to connect with her. Seth was totally swoon worthy.
My only disappointment was I would have liked more back-story. How Jamie came to be orphaned and her growing up? More about Seth and Darius’s time on land. How did Seth’s neighbor know what he was? So many unanswered questions, and with the cliffhanger ending, what will become of them all? I hope we get to find out.
February 6, 2012
Despite being a big Greek Myth fan, this is the first book I've really read that touches on it this much, other than PJ - it's not my usual genre, and I don't usually stray too far away from it. I wouldn't class this as Parnormal. This time, though, I'm glad I did stray. If I didn't, I'd have probably never found this story. It kept me interested, I loved it. I had very few issues with some of the plot holes, and found that I could easily look around them if I tried hard enough.
For instance, one minute Jamie hates him, the next she doesn't. And so on. This girl cannot decide when she's mad at Seth. Darius made me chuckle a few times, though, so that all made up for it as far as I'm concerned.
It felt like there was a lot left out - more information, maybe, on why Seth and his Twin weren't in the sea, what the Sisters of Fates had to do with the entire story - there could have been a lot more, and I definitely wouldn't have complained at having more of this book to read.
For instance, one minute Jamie hates him, the next she doesn't. And so on. This girl cannot decide when she's mad at Seth. Darius made me chuckle a few times, though, so that all made up for it as far as I'm concerned.
It felt like there was a lot left out - more information, maybe, on why Seth and his Twin weren't in the sea, what the Sisters of Fates had to do with the entire story - there could have been a lot more, and I definitely wouldn't have complained at having more of this book to read.
July 20, 2014
Very interesting premise.
Very interesting premise.
While this story did not at first keep my attention, I kept reading and finally was captured. The larger than life Titan hero and his love for a "human"while starting slow did peak my interest and the love . scenes while unusual were also erotic. While I might have wished for a bit smoother telling and not such jumps from one scene to another, in the end it had an ending that soothed any rough spots. If you are looking for a change from the normal vampire, werewolf paranormal books this one deserves a try. RECOMMENDED with 4 stars.
Very interesting premise.
While this story did not at first keep my attention, I kept reading and finally was captured. The larger than life Titan hero and his love for a "human"while starting slow did peak my interest and the love . scenes while unusual were also erotic. While I might have wished for a bit smoother telling and not such jumps from one scene to another, in the end it had an ending that soothed any rough spots. If you are looking for a change from the normal vampire, werewolf paranormal books this one deserves a try. RECOMMENDED with 4 stars.
July 19, 2014
Finished it, but...
it took me a while. I was able to put it down and walk away several times. When I am fully engaged in a book, I can read it in two days. This one didn't do it for me. It also didn't make me want to read any of her other works. Maybe Mer-folk just aren't my thing.
it took me a while. I was able to put it down and walk away several times. When I am fully engaged in a book, I can read it in two days. This one didn't do it for me. It also didn't make me want to read any of her other works. Maybe Mer-folk just aren't my thing.
April 10, 2016
The female protagonist is starting to come out as a real Mary Sue and it's painful to watch. I'm not sure about the plot, though. It's kind of engaging, I might stick around to find out, but for now I'm going to stop reading this.
January 26, 2012
I was so looking forward to reading this book. Unfortunetly it did not follow my expectaions. The story just could not keep me interested.
July 31, 2014
Is a great book to read
December 29, 2014
Apparently mermaid powers also include becoming a porn star. Also, pseudo rape. It's a no from me.
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