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Striped Ones #1

Shadow Cat

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Eric Randall's plan is simple-fix the mess his researchers have created in Malaysia, experience the pleasures the country has to offer, and return to the comforts of America. All it takes is one beautiful aborigine, and Eric finds himself stranded in a world of Malaysian myths and legends. A novice shaman amongst her people, Berani is free and independent. Yet all is not well in her homeland. Demons prey on her people, pushing them to extinction. When a strange speaking man invades her forest, she has one more worry to add to her already troubled life. Attraction or no, she will fight Eric tooth and claw to maintain her freedom. But will she destroy herself in the process? If Berani wishes to save her family... if Eric wishes to reclaim his old life, they must stand together against the threats of encroaching wehr-tigers and bloodsucking demons... or perish.

370 pages, Paperback

First published January 7, 2011

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About the author

Reena Jacobs

17 books103 followers
Reena Jacobs is just your typical writer who loves to see her words in print. As an avid reader, she’s known to hoard books and begs her husband regularly for “just one more purchase.” Her home life is filled with days chasing her preschooler and nights harassing her husband. Between it all, she squeezes in time for writing and growling at the dog.

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5 stars
10 (16%)
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22 (36%)
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21 (34%)
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5 (8%)
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3 (4%)
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
Profile Image for WereVamps.
175 reviews17 followers
April 1, 2011
What a steamy read this was! This book has a very different storyline then I am use to. Which of course I find completely refreshing! It takes place in Malaysia. Which is a 1st for me. I loved hearing the beautifully described tropical rain forest, full of histories and colorful culture. The main characters are Berani who is a Whertiger, and down to earth Eric are drawn to each other so strongly. Despite their language barrier, they somehow found a way to communicate. I Don’t forget Brian. I loved his flirtatious and witty personality. The Ending was great. I loved how it draws you in, till you feel you are there. I will leave you feeling completely satisfying. It will keep you wanting more till the very end. What is a book with out something to freak you out. Okay maybe not all people, but this totally got me. The Penanggalan. Ewe. What’s that you ask? It is a nasty thing. The only way for me to describe it would to give you a little quote from the book. Page 62 (Nook - Normal Font) “A Penanggalan - the jinjangs minion - the cause of so many illnesses and deaths amongst her people. From the neck, a stringy mass of veins drooped and suspended disemboweled organs. The lungs deflated, and a vapor drifted from it's nose, saturating the air with a vinegary stench. A long proboscis-like tongue slithered from its mouth and undulated like a snake as it lapped the back of the human's head with a revolting slurp." Like I said, Ewe. Over all I really liked this book, and would totally recommend this to anyone willing to take a new adventure!!
Profile Image for Once.
2,344 reviews69 followers
February 21, 2011
Reena Jacobs gives us a different storyline, the story takes place in the beautifully described country of Malaysia. Eric the CEO of his pharmaceutical company as to travel to the country to try and save the research his company botched. At the same time he is avoiding his girlfriend and the pressures of getting married. He feels that this trip can be a vacation. Little does he know that's the last thing he will have. Eric meets Berani and that when things get more complicated. Berani is a tiger you can say. She is also the Shaman in her tribe. She ends of injuring Eric and has to cure him since his injury becomes infected. All this without speaking a work that they understand to one another. What will happen while Berani has Eric under her care, Read to find out. My downside o this novel is how long it too me to get into the storyline and understand where it was going. It is a unique read and its very erotic, so this is definitely for the adult readers of my blog.
Profile Image for Reena Jacobs.
Author 17 books103 followers
January 21, 2011
I absolutely loved this book. It's erotic, exotic, and full of suspense. Don't let me spoil it for you, try it out yourself! Okay, okay. I'm a bit bias on this one. I wrote. I admit it. But don't let that hold you back.
Profile Image for Shelleyrae at Book'd Out.
2,425 reviews503 followers
April 11, 2011
Shadow Cat is a paranormal romance with an exotic setting and intriguing myth that gives it an edge in this crowded genre.
In the lush tropical rainforest of Malaysia, clans of wehr-tigers defend their territory against human encroachment. Berani, a female 'orang belang', is incensed by the encampment of humans who have destroyed a section of the jungle and is determined to drive them away.
Eric has inherited his grandfather's pharmaceutical company and is desperate to prove himself in his role as CEO and fend off his rivals. He is pinning his hopes on the research team in Malaysia making a discovery that will cement his position, but the unsanctioned clearing of the rainforest puts the project in jeopardy. With his right hand man, and best friend, Bryan, Eric heads to Malaysia to rescue the situation.
An accidental confrontation between Berani and Eric results in startling changes for them both.
Shadow Cat has a lot to recommend it and a real strength of this book lies in Jacobs seamlessly weaving Malay legends that center around the 'orang belang', which translates as the 'Striped Ones', and the soul destroying demons known as 'pennangalan' into a contemporary setting. Jacobs maintains the truth of her world by incorporating the legend and language of Malaysia in a way that is credible and demonstrates careful research.
The storyline is well thought out and interesting. The relationship between Berani and Eric is integral to the story but doesn't overwhelm it. As this is a series debut, I recognise that this first book plays a crucial part in grounding further installments but it does result is a pace that is a little uneven. Most of the action was reserved for the second half of the novel and I thought there were instances of repetition of information in the first half that could have been dropped or condensed to improve the flow.
Berani is a strong character who is immediately appealing. She is tough but also has an emotional vulnerability and is likeable. Eric is less attractive, his arrogance is off putting and while that trait never really recedes, he does become more rounded as the story progresses. The development of their relationship is well handled, initially it is heavily based on lust and the instinctual pull of mating with some well written erotic scenes. Berani doesn't speak nor understand, English so her communication with Eric is primarily through body and sign language when the two are alone. Love, or rather lust, is an universal language of course, but Jacobs is careful to develop their relationship in a manner that is believable and also cultivates the emotional connection. What I particularly appreciated in terms of character is that neither partner has to compromise their strengths for the sake of the romance.
The book is well written with wonderful use of imagery and language. Jacobs uses Malay terms naturally within the story, and while she includes a glossary at the back, it is not necessary to refer to it (though it is interesting).
Shadow Cat is an impressive self published debut by Reena Jacobs with an unique setting, myth and appealing characters. I would recommend Shadow Cat to readers who enjoy a sensual paranormal shifter romance with a compelling storyline.

Profile Image for ѦѺ™.
447 reviews
April 30, 2011
“O tiger's heart wrapped in a woman's hide!” - William Shakespeare


Nora Tech Pharmaceuticals is in dire straits. researchers who were sent to the Endau Rompin Rainforest in Malaysia have been deported after they lost their government permits to operate in the area. stocks are plummeting and a hostile company takeover appears imminent. with his friend and assistant Bryan Hayes, CEO Erickson Randall decides to go to Malaysia to oversee the research operations and have a much needed vacation. everything seemed to be getting back on track until Eric meets Berani, a novice shaman of her clan and a wehr-tiger. Berani takes it upon herself to defend her tribe and home not only from the human interlopers but also from demons. things heat up and get a little complicated when Eric and Berani could no longer deny their attraction for each other.
i am from Southeast Asia myself and i find this story close to my heart. i am familiar with the heat and humidity Eric experiences. there are parallels in supernatural folklore as well. Malaysia's penanggalan is somewhat similar to my country's manananggal.
their appearances are very different but they share some common characteristics. before going on a hunt, these creatures have the ability to detach themselves from the rest of their bodies. they lust for blood and prey on pregnant women, young children and babies.
i remember during my childhood how stories of the manananggal fascinated and frightened me at the same time. even now, just thinking about them still gives me the creeps.
i really enjoyed Shadow Cat very much. the characters are interesting, the setting exotic and the plot engrossing. this is one unforgettable read for me!
East definitely meets West as author Reena Jacobs takes us to Malaysia in this refreshing and highly imaginative story where myths and legends about shifters and demons come to life in a lush tropical jungle.


Disclosure of Material Connection: i am a member of the Book Lovin' Bitches E-book Tours and a copy was provided by the author. although payment may have been received by Book Lovin' Bitches E-book Tours, i did not receive any payment in exchange for this review nor was i obligated to write a positive one. all opinions expressed here are entirely my own and may not necessarily agree with those of the author, the book's publisher and publicist or the readers of this review. this disclosure is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
Profile Image for Marcie.
709 reviews6 followers
April 16, 2011
Shadow Cat is a paranormal romance that takes place in the Malaysian rain forest. I absolutely loved the background setting to this novel. There is something so mysterious and alluring about the rain forest. I really enjoyed this aspect of the novel because the rain forest is a character in itself. It is home to the rare tribe of wehr-tigers, that are hidden deep in the forest. Legends and myths tell of their existence. Berani is a wehr tiger who is strong, fearless, and protective of those she loves. She's also insanely beautiful. She's absolutely livid over her part of her rain forest being destroyed by a pharmacological company run by Eric Randall. Eric is head strong and a major control freak. He is attracted to Berani's exotic beauty. He's also attracted to her kitty pheromones she's releasing. Berani and Eric's relationship is interesting. They are from different cultures and don't even speak the same language. The have to find a way to communicate. There are also other obstacles that they must overcome, for instance, Eric isn't the only one that is attracted to Berani's scent. I enjoyed watching their relationship unfold throughout the story. Their chemistry together is smoking. Shadow Cat also has many other enjoyable characters. Two of my favorite are Bryan, Eric's best friend and Nenek, Barani's grandmother. I hope to see more of Bryan in a future book. He made me laugh out loud a few times.
Overall I thought the plot was good. There were a few aspects of the storyline that I thought worked out to easily, but it didn't take away from the overall story. I really enjoyed the mystical forces that are threatening the inhabitants of the rain forest. That was definitely interesting and a bit creepy. Reena Jacobs is currently working on more books in the Striped Ones series. I look forward to seeing what happens next in the series. Hopefully Bryan will be in them.
Profile Image for Laurie.
617 reviews129 followers
July 22, 2011
Berani is incensed about the systematic devastation of the Malaysian rainforest. As the habitat is destroyed her people, the were-tigers are being pushed ever closer toward extinction.

Hoping for a few days of rest and relaxation following his recent breakup with his ambitious and greedy girlfriend, Eric Randall accepts his friend’s invitation to personally oversee his company’s Malaysian research team and be on-site to facilitate the strained relations between the government and the scientists.

When Eric encounters the wild, beautiful native, Berani, all his well-intentioned plans seem to lose importance. But when Eric suffers a grave injury, and as Berani tends his wounds and nurses him back to health, a bond grows between the unlikely couple. Later, suffering from feverous delusions, Eric attempts an escape and, as a result, nearly dies a second time and is forever changed.

Berani is an unorthodox heroine, truly more animal than human, with razor-sharp reflexes; she is also cunning. Strong and fearless, Berani, was easier for me to like and to relate to than was Eric. I felt as though Eric was often too weak, too compromising. I liked his assistant and close friend, Bryan, much better. I found myself wishing that Berani had chosen Bryan as her mate instead of Eric. This is the first in a planned series and perhaps in the next book Eric will display a deeper complexity and business savvy when he and Berani presumably return to New York to fight for his company. This adventure kept my attention and was filled with the imagery of a lush, tropical environment where extreme danger is an intrinsic part of breathtaking beauty.

Laurie
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance & More
79 reviews7 followers
March 16, 2011
Ericson Randall, the CEO of Nora Tech Pharmaceuticals, needs for the scientific expedition to the rainforest of Malayasia to go without a hitch, because his position in the company may depend on it. Unfortunately, the researchers are thrown out of the country after destroying a section of rainforest. When his assisstant, Bryan Hayes, suggests that Eric journey with him to Malaysia, Eric sees a way out of a sticky situation at home and a way to straighten out his Malaysian problems.




Berani, a tiger shifter, dislikes the intruders in her forest, but when she spies Eric, Berani is fascinated. Eric is, also, drawn to Berani. When Eric gets too close, Berani reacts by scratching him. Leading to a tumultuous courtship. Meanwhile, some evil beings pose a danger to Berani's people and the researchers.




Wow! I loved this book. Ms. Jacobs creates an imaginative, complex world filled with interesting, multi-faceted characters. The imagery is vivid and this reader soon became engrossed in the story. Ericson, who only lives for his business, soon, realizes there is more to life after meeting Berani. Berani, who tries to help her people, learns she doesn't have to do everything by herself. Interwoven throughout the book is the message of conservation, which really struck a chord with me. There are, also, some vicious creatures, which threaten everything, that Berani and Ericson hold dear. The ending is wonderfully exciting, and action-packed, and I have my fingers crossed, that Ms. Jacobs writes another book set in this spectacular world.
Profile Image for Sarai.
419 reviews11 followers
April 30, 2011
I have to say Ms. Jacobs did a wonderful job making me feel like I was part of the story. I felt what the characters felt, I almost felt like I was there with them and that is rare! I loved the descriptions of Malaysia the jungle scenes were beautifully written. The characters Berani who is a Whertiger, and Eric a CEO of a Pharmaceuticals company are drawn to each other so strongly so strongly that language doesn't hinder this romance. A romance that is hawt and hevy throughout the book even when they know they shouldn't they can't help but either think or dream about.

I have to say my favorite part is Brian. I loved his flirtatious and witty personality and the way he keeps the serious parts fun. I think this might be a series soley based on him. LOVED HIM.

Okay if there were any negative parts it was at the end and it was my simple dislike of any book that does it and its the whole need to have (and I won't tell you but if you read any of my reviews you already know this about how the herione has to have this to feel complete even though in this situation I don't think she needed it.) Anyway you will understand when you get to the end.

Other than that this book was enjoyable and good until the end!

Profile Image for Shirley .
1,879 reviews56 followers
September 13, 2011
I really enjoyed Shadow Cat. It took me a little longer to read than most books, but I got side tracked. What can I say, it happens.

The imagery that Reena creates in her description of the rain forest in Malaysia is amazing. There is basically something in this one for everyone. Action, romance mystery and yeah a fair amount of erotica. It all fits though and the story wouldn’t have been the same without all the elements involved.

If I had one complaint about Shadow Cat, it would be that Eric’s emotions made me dizzy. I know it couldn’t be helped and he was going through a lot at the time. His whole world along with his definition of reality was turned upside down. It was just hard to keep up with where his head was when his loyalty between Barani and his family business and the “real world” would change almost from paragraph to paragraph. I could live with that though because none of it seemed forced by the end. He ended up where he needed to be and he was happy there.

Shadow Cat was a totally different story than I Loved You First, but Reena’s style makes it just as entertaining and easy to read. I’m glad a went back to finish it, because once I started reading it again, I found it really hard to put down.
Profile Image for Donna (BLHmistress).
171 reviews85 followers
April 7, 2011
The blurb got me intrigued and the story pulled me in , I read this in one setting. I loved that it was such a different twist, almost reminded me of Tarzan and Jane but set in the tropical Rain Forest of Malaysia.

I loved the very unique love story between Eric and Berani, I immediately felt the connection of both characters. Eric, his frustration in saving his family's company and Berani's strong intent in saving her home.

Throw in shifters and it makes for a wonderful told story. Don't forget the hot erotic scenes left me running for some ice out of my freezer.

I found myself clicking faster through each page to find out what happened next. So would I recommend? Yes I would if you are looking for a unique, love story with erotica mixed in this is definitely a must read for you.


Rating 4.5 out of 5
Profile Image for Christine.
344 reviews
May 10, 2011
Shadow Cat is a very erotic and suspenseful shifter romance that takes place in the rainforest of Malaysia. The characters are well developed, and the romance between Eric and Berani is hot and exciting!

I very much enjoyed the descriptive writing in this book, and could clearly envision the characters in their environment. I also liked the Malay legends that were incorporated into the story as they added more suspense. Reena Jacobs obviously spent a lot of time creating this story, and did the research to get it just right.

I recommend Shadow Cat to anyone who likes paranormal romance.
1 review
June 2, 2011
I really enjoyed this book!!! I couldn't put the book down!! This book had a little of everything, romance, suspense, mystery, comedy, and little erotic. The storyline was really good, I'm really hoping Mrs.Jacobs is going to continue this in a series..... I'm curious what will happen with Bryan, Pejuang, and Mujur. I think it would be really interesting to see Eric and Berani going to the city though!!!!


I would like to thank you for the book, I really liked it!!!

Thanks, Chrystal
April 3, 2011
The first chapter had me on the hook! I appreciate a story that starts out so intensely. I became involved to the point that I was frustrated with the two main characters and there inability to speak to each other (different languages) - this is one of the ways that tells me I'm reading a good book - too much involvement! I also liked that the author was descriptive and not too wordy. I've already recommended this to my friends who appreciate paranormal romances.
Profile Image for Lisa.
30 reviews13 followers
July 24, 2011
The author was kind enough to send an eBook copy to me and I am ready to journey back into the jungle (and the city) to continue enjoying this world! I definitely recommend this book for those who like their erotica liberally laced with chases, fights, and scary monsters.
Profile Image for TheGeekyBlogger.
1,458 reviews177 followers
January 28, 2012
Received for Review from Author
Actual Rating 3.5 (Goodreads needs to get on the half train already)
Review Originally posted on:

What I Loved: Berani and Eric created a very a unique yet fantastic love story. They were meant for each other despite their differences. I also adored Bryan and the roll he played in both with their love story and the overall arc story. The trials and tribulations these 3 faced were monumental but they worked through them all. I thought the "medical" (can't think of a better word) issues that they faced reminded me a bit of Outbreak (which I adored) and worked really well! In the end (no spoiler), how everything turned out was both realistic and satisfying for the storyline. It kept me hooked till the very end.

What I Liked: The history, world building, and culture that Reena created was unique and interesting to read. The glossary in the back of the book helped me when I was stuck. I appreciate when an author does that for their readers.

Complaints: Overall this was a fantastic book but it does take a bit to "get into". I really couldn't see tell what the story was supposed to be about until about 30 to 40% through (I am a kindle reader so I am not sure of the pages). Once the story hit that mark though, it was fantastic till the very end.

Why I Gave a 3.5: I really enjoyed the unique world that Reena built and the storyline was very compelling. I think different people will get into it much faster than I did and should take that into account.

Who I would recommend it too: PNR readers who enjoy a bit of transport into a world part of our world but different.

Author Website: http://reenajacobs.com/
Profile Image for Lisa.
9 reviews2 followers
June 8, 2011
I was sent this book from the author. The main characters in this story are Berani a wehr-tiger/shaman she is a very strong woman and her character is very independent and nurturing and Eric a stressed out workaholic who has taken over his grandfathers pharmaceutical company, he is in over his head and the company is in trouble. Eric and his friend, work associate Bryan, go to Malaysia to fix a company issue they are having. I love the world that Ms. Jacobs has created within our real world it gives a different and dynamic feel to the paranormal genre. I initially didn’t like how the main characters met and how their romance built it seemed a little shallow; I didn’t feel the intensity or the connection between these characters and their relationship didn’t seem to flow. It took me a while to get into this story about a third of the way into the book is when it got interesting. This story is compelling and well written. The erotic scenes (very hot), this story has lots of character building and a great ending. This story is original and as it progressed I grew to like how the characters relationships grew and matured and how they over came their obstacles together. I did find certain parts of the story repetitive and I would have liked the glossary at the beginning so I could refer to it as needed. Overall this was a very good book, I enjoyed it. I definitely recommend this book.
Look for more reviews at Book Addict Club
Profile Image for Maria.
46 reviews18 followers
June 2, 2011
Reviewed by request of author.

Shadow Cat by Reena Jacobs is a paranormal erotic romance that takes place in the Malaysian rain forest. On a research expedition that pharmaceutical CEO Eric Randall meant to be a working vacation and an attempt to get away from a marriage obsessed girlfriend, he finds himself drawn to a beautiful native, attacked, left for dead and then rescued by our heroine. Berani is a Kemering (wehr-tiger) and healer who is trying to get the researchers off her land and protect her clan when she stumbles upon Eric. Even with language as a barrier and the constant obstacles thrown at them: his fever hallucinations of her trying to harm him, her attracting other males when she goes into heat and attacks by blood sucking creatures, Eric and Berani fight it out together and have their HEA (happily ever after).

Well written, very detailed and steamy hot where it needed to be. This is the first of Ms. Jacobs’ books that I’ve had a chance to read and hope that it won’t be the last.

4 stars

(Review posted on my blog as well)
Profile Image for Leah.
180 reviews1 follower
May 18, 2011
Ok, Since the author gave me this book (which by the way THANK YOU SO MUCH) I wanted to be as honest as possible. From the beginning, I was thrown off by the idea of Wehr-tigers! I don't know what I expected, but I wasn't expecting such an extreme case of wehr-tigers. Once I got through the initial shock of the shifter woman, I was intrigued by the intense desire. The desire written in this book was awesome. That alone kept me flipping the pages. I loved the raw passion between the characters. Again, the story got me again with other aspects in which Eric accepted facts. I think if I was in those same shoes, I would not be so easily agreeable. I see that Jacobs tried to write in that Eric had issues but it wasn't enough to make it believable. So I was torn because I enjoyed the passion and sex (whew, did I ever!!!) but I didn't think the story was making me believe. I know that if written well enough, I can believe right along with anyone else. I think the passion written in the story was EXCELLENT.
Profile Image for Susan.
220 reviews10 followers
February 3, 2012
Intriguing, adventure in the jungle. Hot sexy man and a wehr-tiger in heat. A steamy mix when thrown together, struggling to survive.
This book is well-written, and kept my interest from the first to the last. The different native vegetation being used as natural healers was a plus in this story. The only thing I wasn't too fond of was the weird "bad" thingy that was described sort of as a vampire type creature with no skin - YUCK. But, then that was part of the danger surrounding Berani's village and the "humans" in the jungle. This was different from anything I've read, and I enjoy reading shifter type stories that are different from the "normal". . . shifter meets female, has to have her . . . Give author Reena Jacobs' books a try! They are well worth reading!
Profile Image for April.
238 reviews1 follower
January 11, 2012
I enjoyed this book. Eric Randall went to fix a mess and ended up in a bigger mess. He gained a soul mate and much much more. It was suspenseful, erotic, a very good read.
Profile Image for Tabitha Ormiston-Smith.
Author 53 books48 followers
August 7, 2012
This book's blurb led one to expect a nice little story about were tigers. It said nothing about all the bestiality porn. I am disgusted and could not finish it.
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