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Shift #1
SHIFT
When Leah’s inability to control her new-found skill nearly sends her into a full blown shifter-tantrum in front of the entire high school, even she has to admit that the last week of school is no place for a new shape-shifter.
Keeping her new, unpredictable shape-shifting skills a secret is paramount, so Leah agrees to spend her summer vacation with her eccentric Aunt Cecelia, a fellow shifter who lives in the deserts outside Tubac, Arizona. Begrudgingly at first, Leah learns what it means to be a shifter, discovering that, in nature, her kind is not as rare as she first thought. While coming to terms with her new identity and learning to control her skills, she meets the son of her Aunt Cecelia’s life-long friends. But Drake King is different from other boys, and not just because he is a shifter. When cornered by a pack of wild dogs one night in the unfamiliar desert, Drake reveals an additional, extraordinary gift that saves Leah’s life.
Amidst rumors of rogue shifters who have broken their oath and revealed themselves to the public—threatening the tenuous new life Leah has just begun to love—she and Drake embark upon a journey that will redefine them as individuals and forever solidify them as a pair.
Keeping her new, unpredictable shape-shifting skills a secret is paramount, so Leah agrees to spend her summer vacation with her eccentric Aunt Cecelia, a fellow shifter who lives in the deserts outside Tubac, Arizona. Begrudgingly at first, Leah learns what it means to be a shifter, discovering that, in nature, her kind is not as rare as she first thought. While coming to terms with her new identity and learning to control her skills, she meets the son of her Aunt Cecelia’s life-long friends. But Drake King is different from other boys, and not just because he is a shifter. When cornered by a pack of wild dogs one night in the unfamiliar desert, Drake reveals an additional, extraordinary gift that saves Leah’s life.
Amidst rumors of rogue shifters who have broken their oath and revealed themselves to the public—threatening the tenuous new life Leah has just begun to love—she and Drake embark upon a journey that will redefine them as individuals and forever solidify them as a pair.
250 pages, ebook
First published April 12, 2011
9 people are currently reading
214 people want to read
About the author
Elle Beauregard
22 books77 followersElle lives in the Pacific Northwest where she is the author of thirteen paranormal romantasies about deeply damaged people finding love amidst the extraordinary. Executive Director of a non-profit, and mom of two, Elle spends her slivers of free time reading, running, or thrift shopping—coffee is usually involved.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
August 24, 2012
I grabbed this one because the plot sounded interesting. Shifters Rule! I never thought I would end up loving it as much as I did. When I was done Shift I immediately purchased both Recast and Drift and started to devour them. Beaureguard writes a fantastic story filled with passion, intrigue and just plain awesomeness. At first I figured Shift was going to be like every other shifter book, but boy was I wrong. It was more X-men than regular animal shifting. Don't get me wrong I love a good shifter story, but it is pleasing to find a treasure like this among so many.
I was pulled into the story from page one. I found myself relating to Leah is so many ways. I loved how the author dealt with Leah accepting who and what she was. Leah was a very likable character and I really enjoyed reading her story. I never once felt that her reactions were unrealistic or unbelievable. Leah is a girl who seems to be something more than what she is. Little did she know that her life was about to become as un-normal as it could be. I had to laugh at what she stepped into with her birthday wish. Priceless =)
Then we have the totally swoon worthy Drake King. I once again have found a new book boyfriend. I honestly don't think he could be any more perfect. I loved that there wasn't any doubting his feelings for Leah. He is a great guy who was brought up right. I loved seeing their love develop and form such an amazing bond between them. I don't think there would ever be a more perfect other half for Leah than Drake. She is very lucky to have such an amazing guy. Honestly you will swoon over him, I tell the truth.
One thing that I have to say is that I am glad there wasn't any love triangle. I have to hand it to any author who can grab your attention with their story without resorting to, what I like to call, Triangle Interference. This being said because I have read the other two novels and I can assure you if you like a story without that in it you will love Elle Beaureguard's Shift series.
If you are looking for a story filled with human shifting, teenage angst and lots of swooning Shift is your book. I couldn't put it down, and that is saying something. I stayed up late reading it, then proceeded to read the 2nd part the next day. Elle writes a amazing story that will keep you enthralled from start to finish. Her characters are well developed and have honest reactions. Even if some you just was to kick in the head. Yeah, you read that right. Grrr to some characters. But, hey that is what makes it a good read. I can't love everyone. Do yourself a favour and go grab a copy of Shift and if your like me grab the other two books to the series, Recast and Drift. You won't regret it.
I was pulled into the story from page one. I found myself relating to Leah is so many ways. I loved how the author dealt with Leah accepting who and what she was. Leah was a very likable character and I really enjoyed reading her story. I never once felt that her reactions were unrealistic or unbelievable. Leah is a girl who seems to be something more than what she is. Little did she know that her life was about to become as un-normal as it could be. I had to laugh at what she stepped into with her birthday wish. Priceless =)
Then we have the totally swoon worthy Drake King. I once again have found a new book boyfriend. I honestly don't think he could be any more perfect. I loved that there wasn't any doubting his feelings for Leah. He is a great guy who was brought up right. I loved seeing their love develop and form such an amazing bond between them. I don't think there would ever be a more perfect other half for Leah than Drake. She is very lucky to have such an amazing guy. Honestly you will swoon over him, I tell the truth.
One thing that I have to say is that I am glad there wasn't any love triangle. I have to hand it to any author who can grab your attention with their story without resorting to, what I like to call, Triangle Interference. This being said because I have read the other two novels and I can assure you if you like a story without that in it you will love Elle Beaureguard's Shift series.
If you are looking for a story filled with human shifting, teenage angst and lots of swooning Shift is your book. I couldn't put it down, and that is saying something. I stayed up late reading it, then proceeded to read the 2nd part the next day. Elle writes a amazing story that will keep you enthralled from start to finish. Her characters are well developed and have honest reactions. Even if some you just was to kick in the head. Yeah, you read that right. Grrr to some characters. But, hey that is what makes it a good read. I can't love everyone. Do yourself a favour and go grab a copy of Shift and if your like me grab the other two books to the series, Recast and Drift. You won't regret it.
Want to read
October 18, 2022The whole SHIFT series is having a mini-resurgence thanks to some excellently timed features and promos. If you're new to my shifters, here's the gist:
🌵 YA/NA transitional romance (for adults who like YA)
🌵 Human shifters who can look like anybody
🌵 Fated mates/magical connection
🌵 Young woman discovering her power(s)
🌵 🌶🌶/5 (fades to black)
The Shift Series was such a passion project when I first wrote it, and Leah + Drake have stayed close to my heart ever since. SHIFT is the first book in the series, and it has real coming-of-age vibes. I'm a sucker for fated mates/magical connection romances, so there's a big dose of meant-to-be between Drake and Leah as well. SHIFT was so fun to write, and I hope that shines through in the story.
For more inside scoops on SHIFT and the rest of the Shift Series, check out the SHIFT section of my website.
As of August 5th, 2022, SHIFT includes the first chapter of Blood Bond, the first book of the Bloodline Saga, a new series that ties into The Shift Series, releasing November 1st.
You can always download SHIFT free when you sign up for my newsletter, or grab it for only $0.99 at all major ebookstores.
🌵 YA/NA transitional romance (for adults who like YA)
🌵 Human shifters who can look like anybody
🌵 Fated mates/magical connection
🌵 Young woman discovering her power(s)
🌵 🌶🌶/5 (fades to black)
The Shift Series was such a passion project when I first wrote it, and Leah + Drake have stayed close to my heart ever since. SHIFT is the first book in the series, and it has real coming-of-age vibes. I'm a sucker for fated mates/magical connection romances, so there's a big dose of meant-to-be between Drake and Leah as well. SHIFT was so fun to write, and I hope that shines through in the story.
For more inside scoops on SHIFT and the rest of the Shift Series, check out the SHIFT section of my website.
As of August 5th, 2022, SHIFT includes the first chapter of Blood Bond, the first book of the Bloodline Saga, a new series that ties into The Shift Series, releasing November 1st.
You can always download SHIFT free when you sign up for my newsletter, or grab it for only $0.99 at all major ebookstores.
December 25, 2022
one of those books that I keep coming back to.
Is it a little slower paced? Yeah. It’s pretty contemplative and I’m found myself skipping some paragraphs at a time. But I love the concept. I have yet to find any other book like this with the characters able to shift their appearance which I think it pretty cool premise and I wish was explored more. This probably not the last time I read this book.
Is it a little slower paced? Yeah. It’s pretty contemplative and I’m found myself skipping some paragraphs at a time. But I love the concept. I have yet to find any other book like this with the characters able to shift their appearance which I think it pretty cool premise and I wish was explored more. This probably not the last time I read this book.
September 18, 2011
While YA paranormal titles are dominated by werewolves, vampires, angels and witches, in Shift the protagonist, Leah has inherited the ability to change her physical appearance at whim. It's a fresh idea that offers something different in the genre.
The detailed blurb summarises the storyline well. It's a well conceived plot and a solid introduction to the series, establishing the main characters and the rules of their world.
The story is told from the point of view of seventeen year old Leah and most of the conflict in the story is emotional as Leah learns to accept her genetic heritage as a shape-shifter. Slower to accept her new circumstances than I would have liked, initially I was concerned that Leah's anxiety and confusion after discovering her ability would define her character. Thankfully the author fairly swiftly moved Leah past her denial and allowed her to explore her new skills. Leah naturally has to make some big adjustments as a shape-shifter and I liked how the author explored both the emotional and social implications Leah was confronted with. Leah finds herself thinking with an Us vs Them mentality which she has to try and reconcile with her desire for nothing to change. The new aspect of her identity also changes her relationship with her best friend which Leah struggles with even as she makes new friends in fellow shape-shifters Ferris and Drake.
The romance that develops between Leah and Drake has a touch of soul mate magic but it works within the context of the story. It's quite sweet really however the relationship is a mature one, and while handled well by the author, it may not be appropriate for younger teens.
The story really only hints at the threat of rogue shape-shifters. There is if not exactly a cliffhanger, then a somewhat abrupt, conclusion to Shift and I expect that particular arc will be more fully explored in the sequel.
Shift is an entertaining paranormal series debut balanced with a coming of age story that older teens can identify with. Well written and original I was frankly surprised at how engaging I found it. If you enjoy young adult novels with a paranormal twist then Shift may be just what you are looking for.
The detailed blurb summarises the storyline well. It's a well conceived plot and a solid introduction to the series, establishing the main characters and the rules of their world.
The story is told from the point of view of seventeen year old Leah and most of the conflict in the story is emotional as Leah learns to accept her genetic heritage as a shape-shifter. Slower to accept her new circumstances than I would have liked, initially I was concerned that Leah's anxiety and confusion after discovering her ability would define her character. Thankfully the author fairly swiftly moved Leah past her denial and allowed her to explore her new skills. Leah naturally has to make some big adjustments as a shape-shifter and I liked how the author explored both the emotional and social implications Leah was confronted with. Leah finds herself thinking with an Us vs Them mentality which she has to try and reconcile with her desire for nothing to change. The new aspect of her identity also changes her relationship with her best friend which Leah struggles with even as she makes new friends in fellow shape-shifters Ferris and Drake.
The romance that develops between Leah and Drake has a touch of soul mate magic but it works within the context of the story. It's quite sweet really however the relationship is a mature one, and while handled well by the author, it may not be appropriate for younger teens.
The story really only hints at the threat of rogue shape-shifters. There is if not exactly a cliffhanger, then a somewhat abrupt, conclusion to Shift and I expect that particular arc will be more fully explored in the sequel.
Shift is an entertaining paranormal series debut balanced with a coming of age story that older teens can identify with. Well written and original I was frankly surprised at how engaging I found it. If you enjoy young adult novels with a paranormal twist then Shift may be just what you are looking for.
August 25, 2012
This review also appears on my blog
This was so not your typical shifter book. In Shift, people who are shifters can change their appearance and be pretty much anybody they want to be. I mean this is an ability I would want, don't get me wrong shifting into animals is cool and all but this was completely different and it was a breath of fresh air.
At the beginning of the book I though that Leah was going to annoy me. She was a stubborn, confused, angst -ridden teenager. Luckily, that only lasted a few chapters and the author turned her into a pretty cool character who loves and is proud of what she is. Leah was a good friend even if her friend wasn't always a good friend toward her especially after she finds out that Leah is a shifter.
Drake was pretty cool. I mean he wasn't the most swoon worthy guy but he was still pretty great.I loved him because of the little things he would do for Leah and how he would call her Lee-Lee, that was pretty cute.
Their relationship was great. It wasn't fast paced or anything but I wish I knew what their bond was. It's like the elephant in the room. Nobody ever explains what it is, and if you want to go there nobody really ever confirms its even something. Well except for maybe Aunt Cici who vaguely mentions the possibility of a bond, other than that I have no clue what the bondy thingy between them is.
The plot was slow and there really wasn't any nail biting, edge of your seat action. I would say this is more of a mystery and I think there is going to be a lot more going on the next book.
The ending was abrupt and rushed but like I said before it definitely sets up for the next book. Overall I liked this book it was definitely totally different from other shifter books and if you enjoy a good paranormal romance then this book is worth checking out.
This was so not your typical shifter book. In Shift, people who are shifters can change their appearance and be pretty much anybody they want to be. I mean this is an ability I would want, don't get me wrong shifting into animals is cool and all but this was completely different and it was a breath of fresh air.
At the beginning of the book I though that Leah was going to annoy me. She was a stubborn, confused, angst -ridden teenager. Luckily, that only lasted a few chapters and the author turned her into a pretty cool character who loves and is proud of what she is. Leah was a good friend even if her friend wasn't always a good friend toward her especially after she finds out that Leah is a shifter.
Drake was pretty cool. I mean he wasn't the most swoon worthy guy but he was still pretty great.I loved him because of the little things he would do for Leah and how he would call her Lee-Lee, that was pretty cute.
Their relationship was great. It wasn't fast paced or anything but I wish I knew what their bond was. It's like the elephant in the room. Nobody ever explains what it is, and if you want to go there nobody really ever confirms its even something. Well except for maybe Aunt Cici who vaguely mentions the possibility of a bond, other than that I have no clue what the bondy thingy between them is.
The plot was slow and there really wasn't any nail biting, edge of your seat action. I would say this is more of a mystery and I think there is going to be a lot more going on the next book.
The ending was abrupt and rushed but like I said before it definitely sets up for the next book. Overall I liked this book it was definitely totally different from other shifter books and if you enjoy a good paranormal romance then this book is worth checking out.
August 14, 2012
Hmm...this was a very creative read. The shifter concept was unique and different from anything else I have read. This story gets an A for creativity.
I really enjoyed the characters and it was obvious the author took a lot of time developing them. I loved the relationship between Leah and Drake. The attraction they faced was realistic for teenagers and I liked that the author didn't gloss over it.
I did find the story a little slow at times. It lagged after her trip began and I was a little bored before the pace picked back up. It happens in most stories, so I wasn't too disappointed.
There are two more books in the series, Recast and Drift. I am interested to see what is in store for them. I recommend this read for young adults and new adults as well. I give this book three glittery stars!
I really enjoyed the characters and it was obvious the author took a lot of time developing them. I loved the relationship between Leah and Drake. The attraction they faced was realistic for teenagers and I liked that the author didn't gloss over it.
I did find the story a little slow at times. It lagged after her trip began and I was a little bored before the pace picked back up. It happens in most stories, so I wasn't too disappointed.
There are two more books in the series, Recast and Drift. I am interested to see what is in store for them. I recommend this read for young adults and new adults as well. I give this book three glittery stars!
April 12, 2011
Well let's just start with the fact that what's not to like? This book has romance, friendship, personal struggle, along with some paranormal intrigue. The main character, Leah, is incredibly easy to relate to no matter what age you are, and the writing makes you feel for the characters so much by the second chapter that it's difficult to put down. I would definitely suggest it!
June 21, 2012
Unfortunately the negatives outweighed the positives. I hated that Leah felt and did whatever one of the other shifters would tell her to feel/do. Especially in the beginning when Ferris told her to she should go to Arizona. She barely knew this girl. Why should she have any input. The one thing I did like was the concept of shifting.
December 5, 2012
I wanted to love this. It caught my attention, played a new spin on shapeshifters, and is beautifully set in the Arizona desert. And while it's still a good story, it's slow paced, full of questions with few answers (curse of the series novel), and contains some gratuitously explicit sexual content that isn't YA-appropriate.
July 13, 2011
This is about the third book I own with this title, & that together with the YA rating didn't really have me expecting too much. But what a wonderful surprise this novel turned out to be!
An original, fun, easy read, I devoured this in one go & am waiting for the sequel...
An original, fun, easy read, I devoured this in one go & am waiting for the sequel...
July 27, 2012
I don't even really know what to say about this book... But I loved it!! It was different for me cause it was my first shifting book instead of werewolves or vampires... So it was definitely interesting. Just loved it :)
August 20, 2011
I want the next book now. Totally enjoyed it!
March 16, 2014
I've read this book several times, and every time I love it!
April 29, 2012
Yes, it is teenage, shapeshifter relationship porn and I liked it.
June 15, 2012
Note that this is a 3.5
I will type a lengthy review when i have found my glasses. Its not so easy typing blind.
I will type a lengthy review when i have found my glasses. Its not so easy typing blind.
September 13, 2013
Enjoyable start to the series
March 6, 2014
Super fun series! Full of adventure, passion and imagination!
April 26, 2016
I really liked the book..it has a young adult like feel,different fantasy type of shifting and quite simple at that time too..and i might check out the next books in series..
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews