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Set in Stone #1
Stone Cold Seduction
When a regular night of Robin Hood-ery results in the manifestation of some, um, unusual paranormal abilities, perfume-maker Elleodora Fredricks realizes the normal world she lives in isn’t quite… normal. And neither is she, thanks to her father, king of the shadow elves. Not only is he evil incarnate and the reason Elle moonlights as a burglar—someone has to take care of all his victims—he’s stolen her memories.And only reading her fate can fix that.Good thing she’s got a trio of hotties willing to help her find said fate, but only if she gives them something in return. Saving her oracle BFF’s fiance, falling in love with the gargoyle, and making up for breaking the phoenix’s heart ought to be a piece of cake for the princess of the shadow elves.If only the king didn’t want his daughter dead…
245 pages, Paperback
First published September 3, 2011
2 people are currently reading
686 people want to read
About the author
Jess Macallan
3 books111 followersJess is a nutritionist, yoga teacher, and genre-jumping author. She lives in the Inland Northwest with her handsome hero and five busy children. She thrives on the creative process. Curiosity drives her to try new things every day, and encourage everyone around her to do the same. When she's not counseling, teaching, or writing, Jessica loves to read, craft with her kids, cook, and get her hands dirty in the garden.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
July 20, 2011
Excellent read. I am extremely picky with my fantasy/UF books that I read, as I am not typically a fan. But this book had enough sass, wit, and realism to suck me in. The main character, Elle, is as believable as my own BFF, with her sardonic humor and lack of confidence, and the hero character? Jax? Oy, a very tasty treat. This is a highly recommended read for anyone who enjoys urban fantasy, OR for someone looking to dabble. If you are considering trying out an urban fantasy for the first time...this is the crossover book for you.
August 5, 2011
Grade: B+ 4 Stars, Thank you to Netgalley and Entangled Publishing for allowing me to read this novel.
Stone Cold Seduction by Jess Macallan follows the story of our un-likely heroine Elleodora {Elle} on her journey to find her fate.
By Day, Elle owns and runs a scent shop called Emmaline's and finally feels she has gotten away from her Evil father and his henchmen.
By Night, Elle moonlights as Robin Hood--stealing from her Father and selling the merchandise in order to pay the medical bills of her fathers victims and families.
While stealing some precious jewels, Elle finds herself in a precarious balance. On the ledge five stories up on her fathers building, she is almost caught by her arch-nemesis Luke. But Jaxon pokes his head out a window, assess the situation, steps out with Elle and they hold their collective breathe while her fathers minions search the building for the thief. Elle shadows for the first time, and Jaxon hauls/jumps off the ledge from five stories up.
Enter the Truth. Can Elle Handle the Truth?
Secrets seem to be the theme of Stone Cold Seduction and Jaxon is keeping his close to the vest. So is Elle's best friend of 17 years Teryl. Teryl is an Oracle and Jax is a Gargoyle. We meet Macleon-- The Phoenix and learn of his history with Elle.
You see, Elle has had her memory wiped out and she doesn't remember Mac, or what she could be, or who her father really is as King of the Shadow Elves.
So sets the journey. Both Jax and Mac claim that Elle is their true mate. Elle get's flashes of her past love of Mac, but that conflicts with her present love of Jax.
What will happen? Will Elle find her fate? Will Luke get a hold of her and torture her again as he did when she was young? What will fate hold in store of Elleodora?
This book was cool and different. There are a lot of twists and turns. By the end, you think you know--but you have no idea. Love, Betrayal, Trust. This book is frustrating--in a good way.
The end is maddening. In a fresh way. I can't wait to read the next chapter of this trilogy by Jess Macallan.
Stone Cold Seduction by Jess Macallan follows the story of our un-likely heroine Elleodora {Elle} on her journey to find her fate.
By Day, Elle owns and runs a scent shop called Emmaline's and finally feels she has gotten away from her Evil father and his henchmen.
By Night, Elle moonlights as Robin Hood--stealing from her Father and selling the merchandise in order to pay the medical bills of her fathers victims and families.
While stealing some precious jewels, Elle finds herself in a precarious balance. On the ledge five stories up on her fathers building, she is almost caught by her arch-nemesis Luke. But Jaxon pokes his head out a window, assess the situation, steps out with Elle and they hold their collective breathe while her fathers minions search the building for the thief. Elle shadows for the first time, and Jaxon hauls/jumps off the ledge from five stories up.
Enter the Truth. Can Elle Handle the Truth?
Secrets seem to be the theme of Stone Cold Seduction and Jaxon is keeping his close to the vest. So is Elle's best friend of 17 years Teryl. Teryl is an Oracle and Jax is a Gargoyle. We meet Macleon-- The Phoenix and learn of his history with Elle.
You see, Elle has had her memory wiped out and she doesn't remember Mac, or what she could be, or who her father really is as King of the Shadow Elves.
So sets the journey. Both Jax and Mac claim that Elle is their true mate. Elle get's flashes of her past love of Mac, but that conflicts with her present love of Jax.
What will happen? Will Elle find her fate? Will Luke get a hold of her and torture her again as he did when she was young? What will fate hold in store of Elleodora?
This book was cool and different. There are a lot of twists and turns. By the end, you think you know--but you have no idea. Love, Betrayal, Trust. This book is frustrating--in a good way.
The end is maddening. In a fresh way. I can't wait to read the next chapter of this trilogy by Jess Macallan.
August 22, 2011
4.5 stars
Wow! This turned out to be one of the most entertaining books I've read all summer! I admit, I'm not a big UF fan; I picked this up with the illusion that it was a stand alone PNR. It turned out I was wrong, but I haven't regretted it a single moment:)
UF seems to be dominated by kick-ass, bitchy heroines, who don't trust anyone and refuse all kinds of help offered to them. This fact doesn't make them too endearing to me I'm afraid. In this book however, I met at last a heroine, who burglar-abilities aside, could be like any other girl out there: she's afraid, truly scared of the bad guys but also has brains, determination and is willing to ask for help and advice and actually listen to it. This, is a refreshingly nice change IMO. I really, really loved Elle -and her passion for perfumes which happens to be a hobby of mine- and wanted for her to find the truth about her past and future. And I really wish for her to pick the right guy in the end. Because this is a love-triangle story and she has to choose who's the right one. At first things seem pretty obvious as she's very attracted to Jax and feelings are obviously mutual. However, it soon became obvious that he's been keeping some secrets from her that could affect their relationship. Still, Jax was one hot hero and I enjoyed reading about the two of them. I do admit though, to being very interested about the other potential love interest, that in this book stayed in the backstage mostly.
If there's one thing I didn't like in this book, it's that Jax's and Elle's relationship starts in the middle; there's already plenty of background between them and the courting has already been done off-stage when the book starts. This left me in a kind of confusion at first and less than sure that what they have -at least from Elle's side- is not just lust but love. Add to this, the heap of things being revealed in a steady stream that seemed a little too fast for the reader to catch at first, and the beginning becomes a little convoluted. But after the initial confusion, everything gets clear and when the action begins.... it's a ride to enjoy! The fact that the species in this book are not the usual ones like vampires and werewolves, is an added bonus that adds to the book's uniqueness.
I'm definitely looking forward to the next book in the series. I have already picked my favorite guy and I'm really anxious to see if he'll win:) And of course there's the suspense about Elle, Luke, her father and her role in Fate's plans.
If you're looking for a fast paced, interesting UF book, out of the ordinary cliches of this genre, I highly recommend this one!
ARC provided by NetGalley
Wow! This turned out to be one of the most entertaining books I've read all summer! I admit, I'm not a big UF fan; I picked this up with the illusion that it was a stand alone PNR. It turned out I was wrong, but I haven't regretted it a single moment:)
UF seems to be dominated by kick-ass, bitchy heroines, who don't trust anyone and refuse all kinds of help offered to them. This fact doesn't make them too endearing to me I'm afraid. In this book however, I met at last a heroine, who burglar-abilities aside, could be like any other girl out there: she's afraid, truly scared of the bad guys but also has brains, determination and is willing to ask for help and advice and actually listen to it. This, is a refreshingly nice change IMO. I really, really loved Elle -and her passion for perfumes which happens to be a hobby of mine- and wanted for her to find the truth about her past and future. And I really wish for her to pick the right guy in the end. Because this is a love-triangle story and she has to choose who's the right one. At first things seem pretty obvious as she's very attracted to Jax and feelings are obviously mutual. However, it soon became obvious that he's been keeping some secrets from her that could affect their relationship. Still, Jax was one hot hero and I enjoyed reading about the two of them. I do admit though, to being very interested about the other potential love interest, that in this book stayed in the backstage mostly.
If there's one thing I didn't like in this book, it's that Jax's and Elle's relationship starts in the middle; there's already plenty of background between them and the courting has already been done off-stage when the book starts. This left me in a kind of confusion at first and less than sure that what they have -at least from Elle's side- is not just lust but love. Add to this, the heap of things being revealed in a steady stream that seemed a little too fast for the reader to catch at first, and the beginning becomes a little convoluted. But after the initial confusion, everything gets clear and when the action begins.... it's a ride to enjoy! The fact that the species in this book are not the usual ones like vampires and werewolves, is an added bonus that adds to the book's uniqueness.
I'm definitely looking forward to the next book in the series. I have already picked my favorite guy and I'm really anxious to see if he'll win:) And of course there's the suspense about Elle, Luke, her father and her role in Fate's plans.
If you're looking for a fast paced, interesting UF book, out of the ordinary cliches of this genre, I highly recommend this one!
ARC provided by NetGalley
October 31, 2011
What’s a girl to do when some want you dead and some want you alive, but you’re not even sure who you are anymore? Well one thing’s for certain, knowledge is definitely power.
Elleodora (Elle) Fredrick’s might seem like a small-time soap shop keeper in a big city, but that’s just barely touching the surface to who she really is. By night, she is a thief determined to steal from the man who made her young life hell for two weeks every year. Her independence was hard-won and so she takes from him and gives back to the families who were made to suffer while in her his employ.
On what was to be a night like any other while burglarizing her father’s property turns into a night of unimagined discovery where mythical creatures are no longer myth. Elle’s sadistic father is revealed as the shadow elf king making her the royal heir to the shadow elf throne. Unfortunately, no one told her any of this until now when latent abilities start to manifest. Turns out, she’s an anomaly to everyone and only receiving her official fate reading can provide answers.
A dangerous journey to Scotland is in order to find a fate-reading oracle that has first hand knowledge of Elle’s fate, but before this “Dorothy” can leave for “Oz”, she’ll be taking a few people with her. A quirky oracle of a best friend, a sexy gargoyle bodyguard, and a fever-inducing phoenix. Since nothing ever comes quite so easy for Elle, she’ll also have to avoid being caught by hunters out to collect her dead or alive thanks to her father and do battle with her father’s nightmarish goons. And if that wasn’t enough, suppressed memories from her formative years are starting to pop up revealing enlightening truths, but even scarier revelations. Who is Elleodora Fredrick’s and what is her fate? Once found, her fate will change everything.
I am in love with Ms. Macallan’s writing! She completely had me seduced by the first page of this entertaining, action-packed story. Her writing is fluid and easily imagined where complexities of world-building could have become confusing.
Elle's voice is strong and comes across with such clarity. Her flashbacks were brilliantly timed and placed in the story as to not overwhelm, but leave the reader craving more. Elle’s a unique and memorable heroine with her cat-burglary and strong aversion to violence. The start to her journey is a bumpy one, but her growth thus far is tremendous and I quite like how she doesn’t give in too easily to anything and above all continues to fight for her independence. Fate or no fate, she lays many burdens heavily on her own shoulders and remains determined to avenge those who have been wronged by her father. Ms. Macallan has created a very admirable and likable heroine indeed!
“When you are ready,” he interrupted, “I would like you to call me ‘love.’ Until then, Jax is fine.”
That’s right ladies, get ready to fall in love with a gargoyle! Jaxon West is protective, possessive, strong, perceptive, not to mention insanely gorgeous, and almost indestructible. When it comes to Elle, Jax always seems to know what to say and what she needs sometimes even before she does. He never pressures her more than she is willing to give him and will wait for as long as it takes her to accept this new part of her life. In other words, Jax is perfect. Well now, we shouldn’t get too far ahead of ourselves because there is another candidate in the race to win Elle’s heart with a slight advantage over the competition. Beware of the phoenix! I have a feeling he may steal some of the show in the next book.
A phenomenal first installment to the Set in Stone series! Even in the aftermath of having read the final page to the story, I am still in awe over all that happened in what seemed to be a blink of an eye. I am spellbound and anxiously wait until the next chapter of Elleodora's journey begins. The next showdown is bound to be even more heart-stopping and adrenaline-inducing than the first and I find myself already addicted. Ms. Macallan is officially on my author’s-to-watch-for list and I am excited to share such incredible talent with others who are readers of the paranormal romance and urban fantasy genres.
Review also posted @ Night Owl Reviews
Elleodora (Elle) Fredrick’s might seem like a small-time soap shop keeper in a big city, but that’s just barely touching the surface to who she really is. By night, she is a thief determined to steal from the man who made her young life hell for two weeks every year. Her independence was hard-won and so she takes from him and gives back to the families who were made to suffer while in her his employ.
On what was to be a night like any other while burglarizing her father’s property turns into a night of unimagined discovery where mythical creatures are no longer myth. Elle’s sadistic father is revealed as the shadow elf king making her the royal heir to the shadow elf throne. Unfortunately, no one told her any of this until now when latent abilities start to manifest. Turns out, she’s an anomaly to everyone and only receiving her official fate reading can provide answers.
A dangerous journey to Scotland is in order to find a fate-reading oracle that has first hand knowledge of Elle’s fate, but before this “Dorothy” can leave for “Oz”, she’ll be taking a few people with her. A quirky oracle of a best friend, a sexy gargoyle bodyguard, and a fever-inducing phoenix. Since nothing ever comes quite so easy for Elle, she’ll also have to avoid being caught by hunters out to collect her dead or alive thanks to her father and do battle with her father’s nightmarish goons. And if that wasn’t enough, suppressed memories from her formative years are starting to pop up revealing enlightening truths, but even scarier revelations. Who is Elleodora Fredrick’s and what is her fate? Once found, her fate will change everything.
I am in love with Ms. Macallan’s writing! She completely had me seduced by the first page of this entertaining, action-packed story. Her writing is fluid and easily imagined where complexities of world-building could have become confusing.
Elle's voice is strong and comes across with such clarity. Her flashbacks were brilliantly timed and placed in the story as to not overwhelm, but leave the reader craving more. Elle’s a unique and memorable heroine with her cat-burglary and strong aversion to violence. The start to her journey is a bumpy one, but her growth thus far is tremendous and I quite like how she doesn’t give in too easily to anything and above all continues to fight for her independence. Fate or no fate, she lays many burdens heavily on her own shoulders and remains determined to avenge those who have been wronged by her father. Ms. Macallan has created a very admirable and likable heroine indeed!
“When you are ready,” he interrupted, “I would like you to call me ‘love.’ Until then, Jax is fine.”
That’s right ladies, get ready to fall in love with a gargoyle! Jaxon West is protective, possessive, strong, perceptive, not to mention insanely gorgeous, and almost indestructible. When it comes to Elle, Jax always seems to know what to say and what she needs sometimes even before she does. He never pressures her more than she is willing to give him and will wait for as long as it takes her to accept this new part of her life. In other words, Jax is perfect. Well now, we shouldn’t get too far ahead of ourselves because there is another candidate in the race to win Elle’s heart with a slight advantage over the competition. Beware of the phoenix! I have a feeling he may steal some of the show in the next book.
A phenomenal first installment to the Set in Stone series! Even in the aftermath of having read the final page to the story, I am still in awe over all that happened in what seemed to be a blink of an eye. I am spellbound and anxiously wait until the next chapter of Elleodora's journey begins. The next showdown is bound to be even more heart-stopping and adrenaline-inducing than the first and I find myself already addicted. Ms. Macallan is officially on my author’s-to-watch-for list and I am excited to share such incredible talent with others who are readers of the paranormal romance and urban fantasy genres.
Review also posted @ Night Owl Reviews
November 6, 2011
http://ismellsheep.blogspot.com/2011/...
Jess has crated a new and captivating world full of Shadow/Light Elves, Oracles, Phoenixes :swooning: and Gargoyles :swooning yet, again. This is the first book in the Set In Stone trilogy. I am a big fan of trilogies because you get a complex story with closure in sight. The second and third books come out March and April 2012 so there isn’t a long wait and considering the cliff hanger on this one I am glad.
The story is fast paced at breakneck speed, but it is at the expense of creating characters without much depth. In the case of this story I didn’t mind so much because it is so entertaining! The main character, Elle, thinks she is just an ordinary girl until she starts to exhibit some unusual abilities. She finds out her memories have been tampered with and she is actually the daughter of the Shadow Elf King and in a whole lot of trouble. I love Elle’s attitude. She is written with just the right amount of clever snarkiness.
Now let’s talk about smoldering alpha males (you knew I would). Elle is being pursued by two OMG perfect lovers. First there is Jax, a gargoyle shifter. Gargoyles serve the Shadow Elves. Who knew they could be so sexy? When Jax turns to stone he is more like a smooth Greek statue that is just as flexible as his human form, but can crush you without much effort. He can also turn specific *parts of himself to stone at will (hubba, hubba). Elle is his fated mate and he will have you swooning with the way he loves her, but he has some very dark secrets that Elle might not be able to forgive.
Enter, MacLean. He is a Phoenix shifter and they serve the Light Elves. Elle is also his fated mate (I know, lucky damn girl) and she was once engaged and very much in love with him, but her evil father has stolen all her memories of this supernatural world she is part of and sent her to live as a human. Elle has fallen in love with Jax, but her memories of MacLean start to come back. This is setting up a tumultuous love triangle that will leave someone with a broken heart. The author has said Elle will end up picking one over the other by the end of the trilogy and that the one who is dumped will get his own story, hopefully with a HEA! At this point I want her to pick Jax, but I think MacLean will shine in the next book leaving the reader and Elle with a very difficult choice.
This is quick, light, entertaining reading with all the right PNR and Urban Fantasy elements and is well worth your time.
Jess has crated a new and captivating world full of Shadow/Light Elves, Oracles, Phoenixes :swooning: and Gargoyles :swooning yet, again. This is the first book in the Set In Stone trilogy. I am a big fan of trilogies because you get a complex story with closure in sight. The second and third books come out March and April 2012 so there isn’t a long wait and considering the cliff hanger on this one I am glad.
The story is fast paced at breakneck speed, but it is at the expense of creating characters without much depth. In the case of this story I didn’t mind so much because it is so entertaining! The main character, Elle, thinks she is just an ordinary girl until she starts to exhibit some unusual abilities. She finds out her memories have been tampered with and she is actually the daughter of the Shadow Elf King and in a whole lot of trouble. I love Elle’s attitude. She is written with just the right amount of clever snarkiness.
Now let’s talk about smoldering alpha males (you knew I would). Elle is being pursued by two OMG perfect lovers. First there is Jax, a gargoyle shifter. Gargoyles serve the Shadow Elves. Who knew they could be so sexy? When Jax turns to stone he is more like a smooth Greek statue that is just as flexible as his human form, but can crush you without much effort. He can also turn specific *parts of himself to stone at will (hubba, hubba). Elle is his fated mate and he will have you swooning with the way he loves her, but he has some very dark secrets that Elle might not be able to forgive.
Enter, MacLean. He is a Phoenix shifter and they serve the Light Elves. Elle is also his fated mate (I know, lucky damn girl) and she was once engaged and very much in love with him, but her evil father has stolen all her memories of this supernatural world she is part of and sent her to live as a human. Elle has fallen in love with Jax, but her memories of MacLean start to come back. This is setting up a tumultuous love triangle that will leave someone with a broken heart. The author has said Elle will end up picking one over the other by the end of the trilogy and that the one who is dumped will get his own story, hopefully with a HEA! At this point I want her to pick Jax, but I think MacLean will shine in the next book leaving the reader and Elle with a very difficult choice.
This is quick, light, entertaining reading with all the right PNR and Urban Fantasy elements and is well worth your time.
August 15, 2011
So I guess this is one of those things I've seen on other blogs where the post title is usually something like In My Mailbox. But I'm just gonna call it a review as I would do with normal books. I have signed up with a website called Netgallery where you can request to read and review books before they are out. And because I'm suppose to get the review for the books out before they're actually published, I'm going to post my reviews for these requested books first before I get to my regular books. Anyways....
So the title is kinda sketch I know, but it's an adult book. Yes, I, a teenager, read adult books. One of the reasons I picked up this book was that it's fantasy and has elves and the like in it. I'm interested in pretty much anything that has elves in it.
Writing: I enjoyed the writing style in this book. I thought it was good and I saw a few words here and there I had to look up because I wasn't sure what they meant. The story's PoV is in first person, present tense, which I enjoy reading. I have seen a lot of books in first person but not a lot of them are in present tense. I also thought that Macallan keeps up the tense well throughout the rest of the book.
Plot: While romance is certainly a strong theme in this book, as is the much overused love triangle, I enjoyed that Macallan didn't make it the center of the book. I enjoyed following Elle in her quest to retrieve her fate. I thought that there was enough tension and a sense of urgency to keep me reading and guessing. There were bits of mystery in this story that made it exciting. And the plot twists were great too, I never saw most of them coming.
Characters: I thought that all of the characters were very good. Elle was a character that I think people can relate to and she was interesting. Although she was good as the Main Character, I thought that she could be too stubborn and she didn't really ever trust anyone (although she has good reason not too). Jax was an interesting character, but I thought that he was way overprotective. Sometimes it was annoying and kinda creepy.
MacLean I thought was sweet. I felt bad for him when he realized that Elle doesn't remember him at all. Although as we go through the story, we see her slowly remembering who he is. As for Elle's father and Luke, I hated them. They were evil characters just as Elle said so. Macallan certainly did a good job portraying them as evil. I thought that her best friend, Teryl, was a good friend too. He was kinda funny and interesting.
What I liked: I enjoyed the creativity in this book. I was happy to not only find out that there was no vampire and werewolves in this novel, but I also enjoyed Macallan's take on gargoyles and phoenixes. This is one of those moments were I think "why didn't I think of that!". While I'm sure I've seen gargoyles in humanoid forms before, I've certainly never come across phoenixes in human shape before. So I thought it was cool that Elle could "shift" both. And how gargoyles were bound to serve shadow elves and phoenixes were bound to serve light elves. I thought that the world building in this story was very good as was the mythology and lore put into it. I also loved the powers that Elle developed.
What I didn't like: As I said before, this is an adult novel so it has some..adult parts in it. And lets just say I skipped over them because I really didn't want to read those parts. That being said, I thought that Elle's relationship with Jax (cool name by the way) was too soon. I've seen this in other novels where the character has met a love interest and suddenly they're in love. I mean, how realistic is that?
I think Elle's relationship with Jax was based more on lust and desire than it was on love. I think that her relationship with MacLean is based more on love even though she doesn't really remember him. And the whole part about Jax being made for her I think is complete rubbish even though his fate says so. It just bugged me. Elle has only known him for two months and all of the sudden they're in love and crap.
Overall: I really liked this book and I thought it was good! I'd recommend it for it's certainly very nicely done. The only real problem I had with it was the relationship between Elle and Jax.
August 15, 2011
3.5/5
Egalley thanks to Entangled Publishing, LLC
Stone Cold Seduction is fairly light, amusing urban fantasy. Elle has this wry sense of humour which captivated me straight away.
"I jerked at the unexpected male voice, sloshing coffee on my hand and the table. “Damn! MacLean, what are you doing here? And why do you always sneak up on me when I’m holding hot coffee?”
MacLean didn’t answer. I noticed his copper eyes were streaked with flame.
“Guys, can we tone it down? Please? Can we have one conversation where no one loses a shirt, is on fire, turns to stone, or growls uncontrollably?”
She is this artsy new age woman, owner of a spa products shop, products which she creates herself. Her only drawback is her evil dad. She thinks he is some sort of mafia man and from time to time she steals some precious stones or antiques from him to donate the money to the families of his victims.
However, reality is much more complicated. Dear daddy is a king of shadow elves, and Elleodora is his heir.
On the night of her latest burglary, Elle is saved from being seen by her hot new employee Jax who suddenly sprouts wings and drops them from multi-storied building. Bewildered, Elle finds out that her world is not what it seems. Her best friend is an oracle, Jax is gargoyle and she actually has an ex-fiance phoenix whom she can't remember because dear dad wiped her memories...
Elle starts manifesting powers unusual even for her new world and her time is running out as everyone wants to either use or kill her, and the only way to save herself is for Elle to read her fate...
Loved everything in the book, but love relationship between Elle and Jax. I'm not a big fan of soul mates idea as I said before, and here it's done particularly badly. Everything happens super fast, unbelievably fast, and all these smoochies and swoons were making me gag. He was calling her his "little gem" for God's sake! It's even worse than "ma petite"!
Other than that I loved that Elle's character develops really well and she finally grows a pair to stand up to her dad. I'm looking forward to the next installment and well done to Jess Macallan for such an interesting book!
Verdict: refreshing, fast read, full of humour and drama. If you like Mary Janice Davidson and Kerrelyn Sparks, I think you'll like this one as well.
Egalley thanks to Entangled Publishing, LLC
Stone Cold Seduction is fairly light, amusing urban fantasy. Elle has this wry sense of humour which captivated me straight away.
"I jerked at the unexpected male voice, sloshing coffee on my hand and the table. “Damn! MacLean, what are you doing here? And why do you always sneak up on me when I’m holding hot coffee?”
MacLean didn’t answer. I noticed his copper eyes were streaked with flame.
“Guys, can we tone it down? Please? Can we have one conversation where no one loses a shirt, is on fire, turns to stone, or growls uncontrollably?”
She is this artsy new age woman, owner of a spa products shop, products which she creates herself. Her only drawback is her evil dad. She thinks he is some sort of mafia man and from time to time she steals some precious stones or antiques from him to donate the money to the families of his victims.
However, reality is much more complicated. Dear daddy is a king of shadow elves, and Elleodora is his heir.
On the night of her latest burglary, Elle is saved from being seen by her hot new employee Jax who suddenly sprouts wings and drops them from multi-storied building. Bewildered, Elle finds out that her world is not what it seems. Her best friend is an oracle, Jax is gargoyle and she actually has an ex-fiance phoenix whom she can't remember because dear dad wiped her memories...
Elle starts manifesting powers unusual even for her new world and her time is running out as everyone wants to either use or kill her, and the only way to save herself is for Elle to read her fate...
Loved everything in the book, but love relationship between Elle and Jax. I'm not a big fan of soul mates idea as I said before, and here it's done particularly badly. Everything happens super fast, unbelievably fast, and all these smoochies and swoons were making me gag. He was calling her his "little gem" for God's sake! It's even worse than "ma petite"!
Other than that I loved that Elle's character develops really well and she finally grows a pair to stand up to her dad. I'm looking forward to the next installment and well done to Jess Macallan for such an interesting book!
Verdict: refreshing, fast read, full of humour and drama. If you like Mary Janice Davidson and Kerrelyn Sparks, I think you'll like this one as well.
October 6, 2011
I really can’t believe that I just read a book and it made me find a GARGOYLE sexy! But, it happens! “Stone Cold Seduction” by Jess Macallan is the first book in the Set in Stone series and it’s a powerful start!
This book is about Elle a young woman who is happy running her little shop and hating her father. Her dislike is so deep that she’s stealing artifacts from him so she can give the money to people who have suffer because of her father’s actions. One day she learns that nothing is as she believed. Her father is king of the Shadow elves and she is his heir. Ah.. and her best friend is an oracle and her sexy employee a gargoyle. Soon, she finds herself in big danger. With the help of a mysterious man all of them will start a journey so they can find her… fate!
Elle is young woman with some horrible memories from her childhood and that makes her hate her father. She is strong and she handles pretty good all these new information about her life. The only thing she wants is a happy and peaceful life but, unfortunately, this is not going to happen anytime soon because now she has to deal with her father!
What can I say about sexy Jax? He is the typical tragic hero. Of course, he is sexy and I love that he’s so overprotective with Elle but a few things I learned while reading the book didn’t make me happy! The truth is that he loves Elle very much and he can do anything for her.
MacLean is another sexy man but there is a mystery about his past with Elle. He’s also very good and he wants to do the best for her.
Teryl is her best friend and one of my favorites in the book! I’m looking forward to read more about him in the future!
I recommend this book to all the fans of the genre!
This book is about Elle a young woman who is happy running her little shop and hating her father. Her dislike is so deep that she’s stealing artifacts from him so she can give the money to people who have suffer because of her father’s actions. One day she learns that nothing is as she believed. Her father is king of the Shadow elves and she is his heir. Ah.. and her best friend is an oracle and her sexy employee a gargoyle. Soon, she finds herself in big danger. With the help of a mysterious man all of them will start a journey so they can find her… fate!
Elle is young woman with some horrible memories from her childhood and that makes her hate her father. She is strong and she handles pretty good all these new information about her life. The only thing she wants is a happy and peaceful life but, unfortunately, this is not going to happen anytime soon because now she has to deal with her father!
What can I say about sexy Jax? He is the typical tragic hero. Of course, he is sexy and I love that he’s so overprotective with Elle but a few things I learned while reading the book didn’t make me happy! The truth is that he loves Elle very much and he can do anything for her.
MacLean is another sexy man but there is a mystery about his past with Elle. He’s also very good and he wants to do the best for her.
Teryl is her best friend and one of my favorites in the book! I’m looking forward to read more about him in the future!
I recommend this book to all the fans of the genre!
September 2, 2011
A Shadow Elf King, gargoyles, oracles, phoenix, light elves, fae, demigods, halflings, an evil father and not one but two romances are featured in this paranormal fantasy romance that grabs you from the first page.
It is a very humorous yet intense story told first person from Elle's point of view. One day she's just an ordinary 27 yr old woman trying to get back at her father for all the years of abuse and his murdering of innocents. The next day her life is turned upside down when she learns her world is not what is seems, nor are the people in her life.
Not Teryl, her best friend since she was ten. Not her gorgeous new employee Jax, who she thinks is "hot, sweaty, bring-the-roof-down sex poured into jeans" with a voice which reminds her of "her favorite chocolate. Dark, smooth, and so delicious, you can only eat one small bite at a time". Not even her father nor Mac, who she doesn't remember but tells her they were engaged.
Both Jax and Mac claim Elle is their mate. What? She doesn't even know what that is supposed to mean, let alone know why she has two.
Has very funny lines such as "No more manversations. Use your words, please. I’m not up for interpreting meaningful stares and growling."
The chemistry between Jax and Elle is steamy and the sex out of this world good. When she gets a few of her memories of Mac back, he is like a comfortable old sweater to her.
I read this is one sitting as I got so caught up in the story I was surprised when I reached the end so quickly. I cannot wait for the sequel.
Warning Spoiler Alert!!!
The story ends with a cliffhanger which leaves you wanting to run right out and get the sequel.
It is a very humorous yet intense story told first person from Elle's point of view. One day she's just an ordinary 27 yr old woman trying to get back at her father for all the years of abuse and his murdering of innocents. The next day her life is turned upside down when she learns her world is not what is seems, nor are the people in her life.
Not Teryl, her best friend since she was ten. Not her gorgeous new employee Jax, who she thinks is "hot, sweaty, bring-the-roof-down sex poured into jeans" with a voice which reminds her of "her favorite chocolate. Dark, smooth, and so delicious, you can only eat one small bite at a time". Not even her father nor Mac, who she doesn't remember but tells her they were engaged.
Both Jax and Mac claim Elle is their mate. What? She doesn't even know what that is supposed to mean, let alone know why she has two.
Has very funny lines such as "No more manversations. Use your words, please. I’m not up for interpreting meaningful stares and growling."
The chemistry between Jax and Elle is steamy and the sex out of this world good. When she gets a few of her memories of Mac back, he is like a comfortable old sweater to her.
I read this is one sitting as I got so caught up in the story I was surprised when I reached the end so quickly. I cannot wait for the sequel.
Warning Spoiler Alert!!!
The story ends with a cliffhanger which leaves you wanting to run right out and get the sequel.
January 25, 2013
STONE COLD SEDUCTION establishes the start of a new series, and it is a mixed bag to begin with. Elle seems to move backwards throughout the book, starting out as a leather-clad cat-burglar robbing her father to help his victims, and ending up as a victim herself. While there is obvious potential for her to grow into her birthright, Elle's resistance and anger is her own worst enemy in book one. Even her love life is hard to get excited about, as the two handsome, charming, and wonderful men in her life are obviously pitted against each other in a love triangle decreed by Fate.
Though the end of STONE COLD SEDUCTION gives hope for future books, there is no incremental triumph to celebrate at the close of this one. Elle's strength in the face of childhood trama is admirable, and she is able to fightback against her tormenters for the first time, but ultimately we are left with the prospect of an uncertain love life, an uncertain home life, and a battle against her sadistic father to look forward to. I'm interesting in finding out more, but I think I'll wait until I can read the rest of the series is one sitting. Elle will come out on top in the end, I just want to make sure I can get to the end as soon as possible.
Full review at All Things Urban Fantasy.
Sexual Content: Several sex scenes.
Though the end of STONE COLD SEDUCTION gives hope for future books, there is no incremental triumph to celebrate at the close of this one. Elle's strength in the face of childhood trama is admirable, and she is able to fightback against her tormenters for the first time, but ultimately we are left with the prospect of an uncertain love life, an uncertain home life, and a battle against her sadistic father to look forward to. I'm interesting in finding out more, but I think I'll wait until I can read the rest of the series is one sitting. Elle will come out on top in the end, I just want to make sure I can get to the end as soon as possible.
Full review at All Things Urban Fantasy.
Sexual Content: Several sex scenes.
August 3, 2011
This review was originally posted at Ramblings From This Chick
Wow. Wow, is the only word I can think of after finishing this book. It was just so good and I couldn't put it down. I just kept turning the page completely absorbed in the story.
Elleodora Fredricks or "Elle" has recently learned that she is part of a supernatural world consisting of Shadow Elves, Light Elves, Oracles, Phoenixes, and Gargoyles. With her future unknown she sets off on a journey to find her fate with her oracle best friend Teryl, and her possible mates Jax the gargoyle and Maclean the phoenix.
I really enjoyed this story and it's great cast of characters. I felt like I connected with Elle and her mission to find fate. I couldn't wait to see what was going to transpire with everything. There were many twist and turns that I can honestly say I didn't see coming.
I can't wait to pick up the next book in the Set in Stone series because I am definitely hooked.
**This was an ARC copy provided by NetGalley**
Wow. Wow, is the only word I can think of after finishing this book. It was just so good and I couldn't put it down. I just kept turning the page completely absorbed in the story.
Elleodora Fredricks or "Elle" has recently learned that she is part of a supernatural world consisting of Shadow Elves, Light Elves, Oracles, Phoenixes, and Gargoyles. With her future unknown she sets off on a journey to find her fate with her oracle best friend Teryl, and her possible mates Jax the gargoyle and Maclean the phoenix.
I really enjoyed this story and it's great cast of characters. I felt like I connected with Elle and her mission to find fate. I couldn't wait to see what was going to transpire with everything. There were many twist and turns that I can honestly say I didn't see coming.
I can't wait to pick up the next book in the Set in Stone series because I am definitely hooked.
**This was an ARC copy provided by NetGalley**
October 25, 2011
You could say that I couldn't choose between this book to read or another one at the time and I can honestly say that I am glad I chose this one first. As I had received this book through Goodreads First Reads, I wasn't sure what to expect. I thought "Gargoyle? Phoenix? I haven't read anything like this" and I was right. I was hooked from the first line, quickly devouring the world that Jess Macallan has created. With a overly sexy and tempting gargoyle, a gorgeous Phoenix, and a best-friend who's Mr. Funny Man (not to mention good-looking as well), who wouldn't enjoy it?
With most books that I've read lately, there isn't much content. Halfway through the books, I find myself thinking that I've read nothing at all except the sexual tension between the main characters. While there is plenty of that in Stone Cold Seduction, there was also content behind it.
Can't wait for the next book! I'll tweedle my thumbs as I wait in anticipation... I can't wait that long..... Oh well, just have to read another book from my to-read list. :)
With most books that I've read lately, there isn't much content. Halfway through the books, I find myself thinking that I've read nothing at all except the sexual tension between the main characters. While there is plenty of that in Stone Cold Seduction, there was also content behind it.
Can't wait for the next book! I'll tweedle my thumbs as I wait in anticipation... I can't wait that long..... Oh well, just have to read another book from my to-read list. :)
July 5, 2013
Review courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales.
Quick & Dirty: Elle is just a mere mortal or so she thought. In one day all that changes. Now she is confronted with gargoyles, elves of both light and shadow, phoenixes, oracles and more. Now she has to find her fate and save many from her father’s evil doings. On top of that she has to choose between her first love and the man she now loves.
Opening Sentence: The worst day of my life began with a double mocha, extra whipped cream.
The Review:
This was a wonderful book to read. It is about a woman named Elleodora Fredricks who thought she was just an ordinary soap maker and part-time burglar. Then after stealing some gems from her father and almost getting caught she realizes that she is much more. In fact she is part shadow elf and part demi-god. Her father is the evil shadow elf king and she is his heir. Unfortunately for Elle, the items she had been stealing from her father turned out to be souls from other creatures. How does she learn the truth of all this? Easy, her boyfriend who is actually a gargoyle, and her best friend who is an oracle, tells her. Now these three, along with Elle’s ex-fiancé, who is a phoenix, must find Elle’s fate and stop her father from using her for his evil deeds.
There were times that I really liked Elle and then there were other times when I did not. I did like the fact that she held it together fairly well when she found out that she was part of a whole other world that she previously thought was all myths. She did have a few times where it overwhelmed her, but who wouldn’t be overwhelmed? I also liked how she stole from her father to help those people who he had harmed in some way. The part of her I didn’t like was that she was sometimes rather reckless. She knows there is a price and a death warrant out for her and she still had a tendency to take off on her own. This usually gets her into trouble and sometimes the guys also. My favorite part about Elle was that she stood up to her father and her worst nightmare rather than just giving in when she is confronted by them.
Elle’s father was a horrible being and Jess Macallan did a good job when she wrote up this villain. To the outside world he was a great business man and an honorable man. Those who knew him better knew about the evil that was in him. He had people killed just for looking at him wrong. Even though Elle was his daughter, he never had a problem handing her over to Luke, a sick disgusting man, who loved to torture Elle.
The three men in Elle’s life were so different from each other, but all were very important to her in some way. First is her best friend Teryl, who is an oracle. They have been best friends forever. Whenever she is feeling down Teryl is there with a smile and comfort food. He is also her partner in crime. He finds the shipments and the items that Elle steals. When Elle learns who she really is he is right by her side the whole way supporting her and trying to help her learn about herself. Secondly, is MacLean Douglas, Elle’s former fiancé, unfortunately she does not remember him because of the memories her father has stolen from her. Mac is back in her life as a hunter looking for the souls that Elle accidentally took. He believes in her innocence and wants to help her prove it and protect her from other hunters like him. Mac has copper colored hair and eyes and is a phoenix that has a tendency to burst into flames around the last guy in Elle’s life. His name is Jaxon West and he is a gargoyle and the new love in Elle’s life. He is the complete opposite of Mac. Where Mac has copper hair and eyes, Jax has black hair and gray eyes that have a tendency to go silver when he is experiencing high emotions. Whenever Mac and Jax are around you can expect a fight and they battle for the woman who was fated for both but meant to be with only one.
I really enjoyed reading this book. It was hard for me to put this story down. I wanted to know if Elle succeeded in retrieving her fate and to find out which man she ends up with. I was on the edge of my seat as I read page after page of action. I do have to say I was not a big fan of the end because it was a cliffhanger leading up to the next book. I cannot wait to read the next one and find out how Elle’s story will play out. If the second book in this series Stone Cold Revenge is even half as good as this one I will thoroughly enjoy it.
Notable Scene:
Her eyes flicked to him for a moment before coming back to my face. “She knew how her life would end. She told me her death would be for a great cause, for a worthy individual.” She raked me with a contemptuous look. “You are not worthy. She was wrong about you.”
FTC Advisory: Entangled Publishing provided me with a copy of Stone Cold Seduction. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
Quick & Dirty: Elle is just a mere mortal or so she thought. In one day all that changes. Now she is confronted with gargoyles, elves of both light and shadow, phoenixes, oracles and more. Now she has to find her fate and save many from her father’s evil doings. On top of that she has to choose between her first love and the man she now loves.
Opening Sentence: The worst day of my life began with a double mocha, extra whipped cream.
The Review:
This was a wonderful book to read. It is about a woman named Elleodora Fredricks who thought she was just an ordinary soap maker and part-time burglar. Then after stealing some gems from her father and almost getting caught she realizes that she is much more. In fact she is part shadow elf and part demi-god. Her father is the evil shadow elf king and she is his heir. Unfortunately for Elle, the items she had been stealing from her father turned out to be souls from other creatures. How does she learn the truth of all this? Easy, her boyfriend who is actually a gargoyle, and her best friend who is an oracle, tells her. Now these three, along with Elle’s ex-fiancé, who is a phoenix, must find Elle’s fate and stop her father from using her for his evil deeds.
There were times that I really liked Elle and then there were other times when I did not. I did like the fact that she held it together fairly well when she found out that she was part of a whole other world that she previously thought was all myths. She did have a few times where it overwhelmed her, but who wouldn’t be overwhelmed? I also liked how she stole from her father to help those people who he had harmed in some way. The part of her I didn’t like was that she was sometimes rather reckless. She knows there is a price and a death warrant out for her and she still had a tendency to take off on her own. This usually gets her into trouble and sometimes the guys also. My favorite part about Elle was that she stood up to her father and her worst nightmare rather than just giving in when she is confronted by them.
Elle’s father was a horrible being and Jess Macallan did a good job when she wrote up this villain. To the outside world he was a great business man and an honorable man. Those who knew him better knew about the evil that was in him. He had people killed just for looking at him wrong. Even though Elle was his daughter, he never had a problem handing her over to Luke, a sick disgusting man, who loved to torture Elle.
The three men in Elle’s life were so different from each other, but all were very important to her in some way. First is her best friend Teryl, who is an oracle. They have been best friends forever. Whenever she is feeling down Teryl is there with a smile and comfort food. He is also her partner in crime. He finds the shipments and the items that Elle steals. When Elle learns who she really is he is right by her side the whole way supporting her and trying to help her learn about herself. Secondly, is MacLean Douglas, Elle’s former fiancé, unfortunately she does not remember him because of the memories her father has stolen from her. Mac is back in her life as a hunter looking for the souls that Elle accidentally took. He believes in her innocence and wants to help her prove it and protect her from other hunters like him. Mac has copper colored hair and eyes and is a phoenix that has a tendency to burst into flames around the last guy in Elle’s life. His name is Jaxon West and he is a gargoyle and the new love in Elle’s life. He is the complete opposite of Mac. Where Mac has copper hair and eyes, Jax has black hair and gray eyes that have a tendency to go silver when he is experiencing high emotions. Whenever Mac and Jax are around you can expect a fight and they battle for the woman who was fated for both but meant to be with only one.
I really enjoyed reading this book. It was hard for me to put this story down. I wanted to know if Elle succeeded in retrieving her fate and to find out which man she ends up with. I was on the edge of my seat as I read page after page of action. I do have to say I was not a big fan of the end because it was a cliffhanger leading up to the next book. I cannot wait to read the next one and find out how Elle’s story will play out. If the second book in this series Stone Cold Revenge is even half as good as this one I will thoroughly enjoy it.
Notable Scene:
Her eyes flicked to him for a moment before coming back to my face. “She knew how her life would end. She told me her death would be for a great cause, for a worthy individual.” She raked me with a contemptuous look. “You are not worthy. She was wrong about you.”
FTC Advisory: Entangled Publishing provided me with a copy of Stone Cold Seduction. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
August 26, 2011
I really enjoyed this first book in a new urban fantasy/paranormal romance series even though the female lead was atypical for the genre. Elle is not a kick-butt and take names kind of woman. She hates the sight of blood and violence makes her faint. She owns her own shop where she makes soaps and lotions. She is very sensitive to the way things smell. She also had an unfortunate childhood. She is the child of divorced parents and her two weeks each year with her father was the opportunity for one of her father's employees to torture her (with her father's permission.) She was constantly told that she was worthless to her father. She grew up hating him and wanting to help his many victims. This has led to a second career as a cat burglar.
She has a best friend named Teryl who assists her in her second career. She only steals from her father and uses the proceeds to take care of some of his other victims. Teryl helps her identify things to steal. She also has an employee in her shop named Jax. He is a hottie of epic proportions but she just longs for him from afar until the night he rescues her in the middle of one of her burglaries. That burglary also caused her to manifest some unusual powers.
She didn't know that her father was a shadow elf. In fact, he is the king of the shadow elves and she is his heir. She is surprised to find out that Teryl is an Oracle and Jax is a gargoyle. Apparently, when she didn't manifest any powers by age seventeen, her father wiped out her memory. She needs to play catch-up really fast now that she is developing some unusual powers. She also finds out that she has been stealing the souls of a variety of the non-human characters in the world which were hidden in the objects Teryl had her steal. All of a sudden, she has hunters on her trail. Her only hope is to travel to Scotland to find out her fate which her father should have shared with her at age eleven.
She also finds out that she once had a fiance named MacLean who is a phoenix. He comes to her shop to investigate the thefts. She doesn't remember him. This immediately sets up a rivalry for her affections between Jax and MacLean. Both believe that she is their fated mate. Elle is very conflicted.
The book is a journey of self-discovery for Elle. She learns about a world that she didn't know existed. It is also filled with danger and adventure as Elle, Teryl, Jax and sometimes MacLean try to find Elle her fate and keep her out of the hands of the hunters and her father.
This book also introduced me to a new word - manversation. Elle defines it as "a conversation men have where only grunts, growls, and manly looks are exchanged." I love it and intend to use it lots.
I recommend this book for lovers of paranormal romance but caution readers that this is the first book in a series. There is a small resolution at the end of the book but most of the major problems are still to be solved. Luckily, readers need only wait until November for book 2 and January for book 3. I know that I am eager to find out what comes next for Elle.
She has a best friend named Teryl who assists her in her second career. She only steals from her father and uses the proceeds to take care of some of his other victims. Teryl helps her identify things to steal. She also has an employee in her shop named Jax. He is a hottie of epic proportions but she just longs for him from afar until the night he rescues her in the middle of one of her burglaries. That burglary also caused her to manifest some unusual powers.
She didn't know that her father was a shadow elf. In fact, he is the king of the shadow elves and she is his heir. She is surprised to find out that Teryl is an Oracle and Jax is a gargoyle. Apparently, when she didn't manifest any powers by age seventeen, her father wiped out her memory. She needs to play catch-up really fast now that she is developing some unusual powers. She also finds out that she has been stealing the souls of a variety of the non-human characters in the world which were hidden in the objects Teryl had her steal. All of a sudden, she has hunters on her trail. Her only hope is to travel to Scotland to find out her fate which her father should have shared with her at age eleven.
She also finds out that she once had a fiance named MacLean who is a phoenix. He comes to her shop to investigate the thefts. She doesn't remember him. This immediately sets up a rivalry for her affections between Jax and MacLean. Both believe that she is their fated mate. Elle is very conflicted.
The book is a journey of self-discovery for Elle. She learns about a world that she didn't know existed. It is also filled with danger and adventure as Elle, Teryl, Jax and sometimes MacLean try to find Elle her fate and keep her out of the hands of the hunters and her father.
This book also introduced me to a new word - manversation. Elle defines it as "a conversation men have where only grunts, growls, and manly looks are exchanged." I love it and intend to use it lots.
I recommend this book for lovers of paranormal romance but caution readers that this is the first book in a series. There is a small resolution at the end of the book but most of the major problems are still to be solved. Luckily, readers need only wait until November for book 2 and January for book 3. I know that I am eager to find out what comes next for Elle.
September 11, 2011
Stone Cold Seduction is the first book in the Set in Stone series. This book caught my eye because the characters are preternatural creatures that I have not read about before.
Elle is your average business owner who sometimes steals from her father. Their relationship is tenuous at best and she doesn't feel any remorse about what she is doing. Elle is your regular Robin Hood; she sells the items that she steals from her father and uses that money to help out his victims. During one of her escapades, she is nearly caught but thanks to her handsome employee, Jax, and Elle's shadowing power, they avoid being detected. Elle is grateful to have escaped unnoticed but when she discovers it is due to her shadow elf power, the world as she knows it crumbles around her.
Jax is a gargoyle and his duty is to protect Elle from her father. Elle is in a vulnerable position because everyone knew about her heritage but her. Now Elle is forced to come to terms with the knowledge that she isn't fully human, she has powers that are manifesting at a fast pace, her best friend is an oracle, her evil father is royalty and that her hot employee is a gargoyle. Oh yeah and that she is fated to be his mate.
Stone Cold Seductionoffers a different twist on standard paranormal romance trope. I liked that the beings in this book are not your standard vampires and werewolves. I can honestly say that I haven't read many books where the hero is a hot gargoyle. Who ever thought that gargoyles could be sexy? Not only does Elle have to contend with the information overload about her dad, but a man from her past, MacLean, arrives and proclaims that they were once engaged. MacLean is a phoenix and his father and Elle's signed a contract for the two to wed. Something happened to break that contract and now MacLean is back, 10 years later.
Stone Cold Seduction was a quick and easy read. There was just enough information to get the plot moving and not bog it down. As Elle learns about this new world she is a part of , the reader is learning as well. The story is told from Elle's POV. Her voice is funny and snarky. We are along for the ride and it isn't an easy one. The love triangle was interesting and Elle's faith and love wasn't truly tested until the end. I'm usually not a fan of love triangles; it reminds me of so many YA novels. But so far, I find Elle's conflict to be true and genuine.
I enjoyed Stone Cold Seduction but it didn't wow me. There were some moments where I felt that Elle was TSTL but understood that her actions were necessary to create the overall arc of the story. Stone Cold Seduction ends with a whopper of a cliffhanger that makes me anxious to get the next book. All in all, a good start to what I hope will be a great series.
Elle is your average business owner who sometimes steals from her father. Their relationship is tenuous at best and she doesn't feel any remorse about what she is doing. Elle is your regular Robin Hood; she sells the items that she steals from her father and uses that money to help out his victims. During one of her escapades, she is nearly caught but thanks to her handsome employee, Jax, and Elle's shadowing power, they avoid being detected. Elle is grateful to have escaped unnoticed but when she discovers it is due to her shadow elf power, the world as she knows it crumbles around her.
Jax is a gargoyle and his duty is to protect Elle from her father. Elle is in a vulnerable position because everyone knew about her heritage but her. Now Elle is forced to come to terms with the knowledge that she isn't fully human, she has powers that are manifesting at a fast pace, her best friend is an oracle, her evil father is royalty and that her hot employee is a gargoyle. Oh yeah and that she is fated to be his mate.
Stone Cold Seductionoffers a different twist on standard paranormal romance trope. I liked that the beings in this book are not your standard vampires and werewolves. I can honestly say that I haven't read many books where the hero is a hot gargoyle. Who ever thought that gargoyles could be sexy? Not only does Elle have to contend with the information overload about her dad, but a man from her past, MacLean, arrives and proclaims that they were once engaged. MacLean is a phoenix and his father and Elle's signed a contract for the two to wed. Something happened to break that contract and now MacLean is back, 10 years later.
Stone Cold Seduction was a quick and easy read. There was just enough information to get the plot moving and not bog it down. As Elle learns about this new world she is a part of , the reader is learning as well. The story is told from Elle's POV. Her voice is funny and snarky. We are along for the ride and it isn't an easy one. The love triangle was interesting and Elle's faith and love wasn't truly tested until the end. I'm usually not a fan of love triangles; it reminds me of so many YA novels. But so far, I find Elle's conflict to be true and genuine.
I enjoyed Stone Cold Seduction but it didn't wow me. There were some moments where I felt that Elle was TSTL but understood that her actions were necessary to create the overall arc of the story. Stone Cold Seduction ends with a whopper of a cliffhanger that makes me anxious to get the next book. All in all, a good start to what I hope will be a great series.
September 15, 2011
First off, kudos to Entangled Publishing for being upfront about Stone Cold Seduction's genre: "Paranormal w/ strong Romantic Elements." That is an apt description. This first book in the Set in Stone series has no HEA, but does have romance. With an HEA I might have thought of it as an Urban Fantasy Romance, but there is no HEA... yet.
I really liked Stone Cold Seduction. Jess Macallan has created a really interesting mythology for her series that includes Gargoyles, Phoenixes, Shadow Elves, Light Elves and more. There are no vampires or werewolves. The fact that a mythical creature in the book called them myths made me smile. There are moments of levity in Stone Cold Seduction. There is romance and, yes, sex. There is action and some violence.
Elle is the central character of Stone Cold Seduction. All of sudden her world is turned upside down when she finds out who her awful Dad really is and who she is and may become. The world is not what it seems. Elle's a very likable character. She has an offbeat and lovely sense of humor. Her reluctance about some things is explained throughout the course of the story. We know as much as she does. We find out about her horrific past right along with her as her memories slowly start to return and her paranormal abilities manifest. Bad things have happened to her. The folks who have caused those bad things are still around. There is one scene in the story that really made me cringe for Elle.
Elle is surrounded by a trio of terrific males - Teryl, Jax and MacLean. Teryl is Elle's BFF. Jax works for Elle. MacLean is... well you'll have to read the story. The interaction between Elle and the "trio of hotties" and among the trio is very well done. There are several very amusing "manversations" as Elle calls them between the guys. "...a manversation is a conversation men have where only grunts, growls, and manly looks are exchanged.” I like all the guys. They each have well-drawn and distinct personalities.
This is the foundation book for the series so don't expect much to be resolved. Elle's powers have not completely manifested, her fate is not clear, and she's going to have to deal not only with romantic entanglements but her dear old Dad in the upcoming books.
Jess Macallan did a terrific job balancing humor, violence, action, and romance in Stone Cold Seduction. It's an engaging read and I can't wait to see what happens next.
I give Stone Cold Seduction 4 Qwills.
I really liked Stone Cold Seduction. Jess Macallan has created a really interesting mythology for her series that includes Gargoyles, Phoenixes, Shadow Elves, Light Elves and more. There are no vampires or werewolves. The fact that a mythical creature in the book called them myths made me smile. There are moments of levity in Stone Cold Seduction. There is romance and, yes, sex. There is action and some violence.
Elle is the central character of Stone Cold Seduction. All of sudden her world is turned upside down when she finds out who her awful Dad really is and who she is and may become. The world is not what it seems. Elle's a very likable character. She has an offbeat and lovely sense of humor. Her reluctance about some things is explained throughout the course of the story. We know as much as she does. We find out about her horrific past right along with her as her memories slowly start to return and her paranormal abilities manifest. Bad things have happened to her. The folks who have caused those bad things are still around. There is one scene in the story that really made me cringe for Elle.
Elle is surrounded by a trio of terrific males - Teryl, Jax and MacLean. Teryl is Elle's BFF. Jax works for Elle. MacLean is... well you'll have to read the story. The interaction between Elle and the "trio of hotties" and among the trio is very well done. There are several very amusing "manversations" as Elle calls them between the guys. "...a manversation is a conversation men have where only grunts, growls, and manly looks are exchanged.” I like all the guys. They each have well-drawn and distinct personalities.
This is the foundation book for the series so don't expect much to be resolved. Elle's powers have not completely manifested, her fate is not clear, and she's going to have to deal not only with romantic entanglements but her dear old Dad in the upcoming books.
Jess Macallan did a terrific job balancing humor, violence, action, and romance in Stone Cold Seduction. It's an engaging read and I can't wait to see what happens next.
I give Stone Cold Seduction 4 Qwills.
September 6, 2011
*4.5 of 5 Stars!*
Stone Cold Seduction is the first book in an amazingly creative new paranormal romance series. In Stone Cold Seduction, Jess Macallan creates an entirely new paranormal world, one full of dark and light fae, oracles, gargoyles, even phoenix's. The paranormal/supernatural elements to this book and world are fresh, new, and I love it! The creativity of this world is astounding. The shadow (dark) fae have supernatural abilities, and can wrap themselves in shadows, the gargoyles are actually man-like and in their stone forms, they are still beautiful. Each paranormal being receives a fate when they are young, and that fate helps guide their life's path. In Stone Cold Seduction Elle, the shadow fae princess, finds out about her heritage and searches for her missing fate. Along the way she falls in love with Jax (her gargoyle protector), uncovers hidden memories, and winds up in the middle of a complicated love triangle.
There is so much to love about this book. Elle is a wonderful heroine, she had a terrible childhood complete with a bad father and torture, but she still manages to rise above her upbringing to be a beautiful, caring woman. She owns a scent-shop where she creates her own scents for soaps and lotions and runs her own store. She tries to help the people her father hurt by stealing from him and giving back to the victims. When her shadow fae powers begin to manifest, she handles the situation pretty well, considering her situation. The love triangle debacle adds an even more intriguing element to the story, and I really don't know which man I prefer. On that note, the romance in this novel is sweet and I really love it. With the title being Stone Cold Seduction, I had thought that the book would be more sex-heavy than it was, but I was very pleased to find that the romance and the sex in the book is a bit more moderate.
I really don't want to give spoilers away, so I will end with this: when I finished reading, I wanted more. Stone Cold Seduction is definitely only book one, just an introductory story to what promises to be a very exciting series. Paranormal Romance and Urban Fantasy fans, you will really enjoy this book. It is one that I highly recommend.
Stone Cold Seduction is the first book in an amazingly creative new paranormal romance series. In Stone Cold Seduction, Jess Macallan creates an entirely new paranormal world, one full of dark and light fae, oracles, gargoyles, even phoenix's. The paranormal/supernatural elements to this book and world are fresh, new, and I love it! The creativity of this world is astounding. The shadow (dark) fae have supernatural abilities, and can wrap themselves in shadows, the gargoyles are actually man-like and in their stone forms, they are still beautiful. Each paranormal being receives a fate when they are young, and that fate helps guide their life's path. In Stone Cold Seduction Elle, the shadow fae princess, finds out about her heritage and searches for her missing fate. Along the way she falls in love with Jax (her gargoyle protector), uncovers hidden memories, and winds up in the middle of a complicated love triangle.
There is so much to love about this book. Elle is a wonderful heroine, she had a terrible childhood complete with a bad father and torture, but she still manages to rise above her upbringing to be a beautiful, caring woman. She owns a scent-shop where she creates her own scents for soaps and lotions and runs her own store. She tries to help the people her father hurt by stealing from him and giving back to the victims. When her shadow fae powers begin to manifest, she handles the situation pretty well, considering her situation. The love triangle debacle adds an even more intriguing element to the story, and I really don't know which man I prefer. On that note, the romance in this novel is sweet and I really love it. With the title being Stone Cold Seduction, I had thought that the book would be more sex-heavy than it was, but I was very pleased to find that the romance and the sex in the book is a bit more moderate.
I really don't want to give spoilers away, so I will end with this: when I finished reading, I wanted more. Stone Cold Seduction is definitely only book one, just an introductory story to what promises to be a very exciting series. Paranormal Romance and Urban Fantasy fans, you will really enjoy this book. It is one that I highly recommend.
September 18, 2011
Elleodora Fredricks has always known her Dad was evil and in fact that is what lead her start stealing precious artifacts from him in the first place. Elle has always felt the need to correct the wrongs he has done by selling his stolen property and giving the money to the victims of his evil temper. Then while narrowly escaping from her latest heist, Elle finds out she is being to show powers such as shadowing because her father is the King of the Shadow Elves. With the help of her best guy friend, Teryl who is an Oracle, and her new love Jax a gargoyle she must solve the mystery of her fate and parentage.
"I have know idea who I am. In the last week, I found out I'm a shadow elf, daughter of a demigod, granddaughter to a god, a ward thief, and I can manipulate minds and flame. I saw a dead woman, was hunted and kidnapped, and then beaten and stabbed by a psychopath. All while traveling, around the world. I got my fate, which was a glorified riddle that provided more questions than answers and now I'm expected to choose between the man I loved ten years ago and the man I love now, while you two fight." Stone Cold Seduction is an action filled story with a unique blend of new creatures that I would have never imagined could be sexy. Ms. Macallan makes gargoyles a big sexy bodygaurds that anyone would want to have around. Jax is a strong protector who claims to be Elle's mate but what of Maclean, a phoenix who burns hot and is Elle's ex fiance. Elle's sadistic father Jedren has manipulated her mind and stolen her memories so she cannot remember whole people or situations from her past.
I loved the fantasy world that Ms. Macallan builds. This is an awesome start to a series with non-stop mystery and action. There are hot romantic passion between Elle and Jax. Yet, Elle is beginning to get warm memories back of her love of MacLean. The end of the book will leave you wanting more. I will eagerly anticipating the sequel.
"I have know idea who I am. In the last week, I found out I'm a shadow elf, daughter of a demigod, granddaughter to a god, a ward thief, and I can manipulate minds and flame. I saw a dead woman, was hunted and kidnapped, and then beaten and stabbed by a psychopath. All while traveling, around the world. I got my fate, which was a glorified riddle that provided more questions than answers and now I'm expected to choose between the man I loved ten years ago and the man I love now, while you two fight." Stone Cold Seduction is an action filled story with a unique blend of new creatures that I would have never imagined could be sexy. Ms. Macallan makes gargoyles a big sexy bodygaurds that anyone would want to have around. Jax is a strong protector who claims to be Elle's mate but what of Maclean, a phoenix who burns hot and is Elle's ex fiance. Elle's sadistic father Jedren has manipulated her mind and stolen her memories so she cannot remember whole people or situations from her past.
I loved the fantasy world that Ms. Macallan builds. This is an awesome start to a series with non-stop mystery and action. There are hot romantic passion between Elle and Jax. Yet, Elle is beginning to get warm memories back of her love of MacLean. The end of the book will leave you wanting more. I will eagerly anticipating the sequel.
September 15, 2011
Elle Fredricks has just been caught wearing a horrible Catwoman suit while stealing from the most evil man she knows...her father. The fact that she's been caught by her oh so hot employee, Jax, makes this all the more embarassing. But Elle soon finds out that being caught stealing is the very least of her problems.
Seems Elle never knew her father with the king of the Shadow Elves. Sure, he's still an evil bastard, but now she finds out he's evil with special powers. If that wasn't enough, she finds out gargoyles are real, there are Light Elves and Oracles as well. And to just dump on an otherwise craptastic day, she finds out her best friend is an Oracle, her employee is a Gargoyle (and still really hot), she's suddenly got some really freaky powers and she might have been engaged to the hot man at her door that she can't remember.
Elle suddenly finds herself in need of a trip to Scotland to speak with the Oracle that read her fate, torn between the bond she feels for Jax and the need to slow things down, and how her mother could have been so different than the woman she remembers.
Elle is a brilliant character. She's sarcastic, cute, wimpy, whiny and down to earth. Given everything she's endured by having the bastard father that she does, she quite normal...which makes you pull for her all the more. You're smiling when she's happy and heartbroken when she is.
Elle trio of hot men are just as great. Teryl with his annoying but loving brother attitude, MacLean who's trying his hardest not to crowd Elle but hoping to get what he lost, and finally Jax who believes with every fiber in his being that Elle is his mate and will do everything in his power to save her...even from himself.
Can't wait for the next book in the series (which according to the Entangled Publishing web site will be November 2011).
Seems Elle never knew her father with the king of the Shadow Elves. Sure, he's still an evil bastard, but now she finds out he's evil with special powers. If that wasn't enough, she finds out gargoyles are real, there are Light Elves and Oracles as well. And to just dump on an otherwise craptastic day, she finds out her best friend is an Oracle, her employee is a Gargoyle (and still really hot), she's suddenly got some really freaky powers and she might have been engaged to the hot man at her door that she can't remember.
Elle suddenly finds herself in need of a trip to Scotland to speak with the Oracle that read her fate, torn between the bond she feels for Jax and the need to slow things down, and how her mother could have been so different than the woman she remembers.
Elle is a brilliant character. She's sarcastic, cute, wimpy, whiny and down to earth. Given everything she's endured by having the bastard father that she does, she quite normal...which makes you pull for her all the more. You're smiling when she's happy and heartbroken when she is.
Elle trio of hot men are just as great. Teryl with his annoying but loving brother attitude, MacLean who's trying his hardest not to crowd Elle but hoping to get what he lost, and finally Jax who believes with every fiber in his being that Elle is his mate and will do everything in his power to save her...even from himself.
Can't wait for the next book in the series (which according to the Entangled Publishing web site will be November 2011).
September 29, 2011
I had heard good things about this book before I won a copy here on Goodreads. I typically read UF/PNR and I love to try something new. I have to admit that I enjoyed it more than I thought I would as I have gotten a little jaded with all of the urban fantasy / PNR out there. I loved the inclusion of Gargoyles and Phoenix's. ( I adore gargoyles and this one is way better than the ones I use as bookends) I liked that it is not another vampire/ werewolf book. The use of Fates was interesting and I am curious to see how the love triangle is played out.
***Some could find this next section spoilerish. If you are like me I would rather not know any details before reading a book other than basic premise)****
I thought Elle was pretty tough in the beginning but caved under pressure with all the information overload. I was happy to see her get back on her feet once she used some of her new found powers. There were times I wanted to thunk her and say just do it.
One thing I really enjoyed was the authors use of fragrances in the story. It has me wondering if she will incorporate this natural talent of mixing fragrances in with Elle's powers. Regardless what a nice talent to have.
My heart also went out to her for all of the abuse she endured as a child. Some of that was difficult to read. When her fear of Luke incapacitated her in the confrontation with Luke I was so upset. I have never been so happy to cheer a character on to kick some ones behind.
It felt a bit cliff hangerish at the end with a lot of loose ends to tie up or story arcs to pursue. The first book is world building and even though it felt like the typical PNR/UF story line at first, other than the love triangle it was complex and held my interest.
I am looking forward to the next installment to see where this goes.
***Some could find this next section spoilerish. If you are like me I would rather not know any details before reading a book other than basic premise)****
I thought Elle was pretty tough in the beginning but caved under pressure with all the information overload. I was happy to see her get back on her feet once she used some of her new found powers. There were times I wanted to thunk her and say just do it.
One thing I really enjoyed was the authors use of fragrances in the story. It has me wondering if she will incorporate this natural talent of mixing fragrances in with Elle's powers. Regardless what a nice talent to have.
My heart also went out to her for all of the abuse she endured as a child. Some of that was difficult to read. When her fear of Luke incapacitated her in the confrontation with Luke I was so upset. I have never been so happy to cheer a character on to kick some ones behind.
It felt a bit cliff hangerish at the end with a lot of loose ends to tie up or story arcs to pursue. The first book is world building and even though it felt like the typical PNR/UF story line at first, other than the love triangle it was complex and held my interest.
I am looking forward to the next installment to see where this goes.
April 24, 2013
This book started off really well. The characters are different and I love the fact that it's not your average run-off-the-mill urban fantasy with vampires.It has phoenixes and gargoyle's . The introduction and build up of the story was brilliant. The start really reeled me in and got me very excited.
Then the insta-relationship(?) between Jax and Elledora came up. This relationship made me very uneasy. There was no build up except for the fact that she thought he was hot. I'm sure lots of relationships start off like that but the fact that she trusted him and started thinking of the L word didn't go down well with me. I just didn't get the relationship .
Fortunately the Jax-Elledora relationship is just a part of this novel. The best part about this novel are the various twists and turns and Elle's friendship with Teryl. I also enjoyed the flashbacks .There is a love triangle but it's not a full fledged one yet. I think it will definitely be a major plot point in the second book but I'm actually looking forward to it. I for one want Elle to get with MacLean. (Team MacLean FTW!) The Jax-Elle relationship just doesn't seem real and felt a little botched up to me.MacLean and Elle have a history and I can't wait to find out more about it.
The story is always affected by how good the villain is and this book has an EVIL villain.You actually feel scared of him. Elle's father is a formidable opponent for her and that is what helps to keep this story interesting.
Towards the end the pace slips up a little bit and I got disconnected with the story but that doesn't mean that I've lost interest in the characters.I'm still interested in getting my hands on the sequel!
Overall, this book is full of adventure and is unpredictable but it has it faults. I expected much more from it.
Then the insta-relationship(?) between Jax and Elledora came up. This relationship made me very uneasy. There was no build up except for the fact that she thought he was hot. I'm sure lots of relationships start off like that but the fact that she trusted him and started thinking of the L word didn't go down well with me. I just didn't get the relationship .
Fortunately the Jax-Elledora relationship is just a part of this novel. The best part about this novel are the various twists and turns and Elle's friendship with Teryl. I also enjoyed the flashbacks .There is a love triangle but it's not a full fledged one yet. I think it will definitely be a major plot point in the second book but I'm actually looking forward to it. I for one want Elle to get with MacLean. (Team MacLean FTW!) The Jax-Elle relationship just doesn't seem real and felt a little botched up to me.MacLean and Elle have a history and I can't wait to find out more about it.
The story is always affected by how good the villain is and this book has an EVIL villain.You actually feel scared of him. Elle's father is a formidable opponent for her and that is what helps to keep this story interesting.
Towards the end the pace slips up a little bit and I got disconnected with the story but that doesn't mean that I've lost interest in the characters.I'm still interested in getting my hands on the sequel!
Overall, this book is full of adventure and is unpredictable but it has it faults. I expected much more from it.
November 5, 2011
You ever read a book and afterwords think, "Whoa? What did I just read?"
Well, that's exactly what happened with me when I read Stone Cold Seduction. I'll admit that I normally like a stronger heroine, but there is something steadfast hidden beneath the loveable Elle. I can't explain it, but she's "real" in a way that some heroines don't come across. We all have fears that we can't explain and Elle has some definite issues, but that's okay, that's what makes her awesome.
Then there are the two men in her life that make the story oh so yummy. I'm telling you, Jax is so smokin' hot, I was screaming at the book when I reached the end. You have to read it to know why. I love it when an author grabs me so deeply in the characters life that I find myself wanting to reach inside the book and give the heroine a purple-nurple. It means that they've done their job. I'm as angsty as the conflict and I love it.
There's a very sweet and sad backstory layered into this Uf that is original and almost old world feeling, but it makes me root for the other guy in a big way--even though I love the sexy gargoyle. Ugh! I hate when an author does that--you know, makes you love both the heroes and you can't decide which is the best. Grrr... It means that I'll love Elle for who she chooses and hate her too.
This truly is a fab book with action, pain, love, hot sex, and everything else you want in a fab UF! I can't wait for the sequel. Ms. Macallan, could you hurry it up please? I'm dying over here!
I'd absolutely recommend this book if you love authors such as Jeaniene Frost-Halfway to the Grave (Night Huntress, Book 1), Laurell K Hamilton-Guilty Pleasures (Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter), and even the newer Allison PangA Brush of Darkness.
Well, that's exactly what happened with me when I read Stone Cold Seduction. I'll admit that I normally like a stronger heroine, but there is something steadfast hidden beneath the loveable Elle. I can't explain it, but she's "real" in a way that some heroines don't come across. We all have fears that we can't explain and Elle has some definite issues, but that's okay, that's what makes her awesome.
Then there are the two men in her life that make the story oh so yummy. I'm telling you, Jax is so smokin' hot, I was screaming at the book when I reached the end. You have to read it to know why. I love it when an author grabs me so deeply in the characters life that I find myself wanting to reach inside the book and give the heroine a purple-nurple. It means that they've done their job. I'm as angsty as the conflict and I love it.
There's a very sweet and sad backstory layered into this Uf that is original and almost old world feeling, but it makes me root for the other guy in a big way--even though I love the sexy gargoyle. Ugh! I hate when an author does that--you know, makes you love both the heroes and you can't decide which is the best. Grrr... It means that I'll love Elle for who she chooses and hate her too.
This truly is a fab book with action, pain, love, hot sex, and everything else you want in a fab UF! I can't wait for the sequel. Ms. Macallan, could you hurry it up please? I'm dying over here!
I'd absolutely recommend this book if you love authors such as Jeaniene Frost-Halfway to the Grave (Night Huntress, Book 1), Laurell K Hamilton-Guilty Pleasures (Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter), and even the newer Allison PangA Brush of Darkness.
March 13, 2015
Fair warning I stopped at page 109 so my review is from the beginning to page 109. First thing first the writing kinda sucks, the author isn't diverse with her adjectives always using "I love...." or "sexy" in one chapter it was "I love the rain and the lush greenery that results. I love the people" and after that its how she loves her shop. Elle had an abusive childhood at the hands of Luke. But instead of taking self defense or some kind of martial arts she instead takes yoga. That stroke me odd since she still has feeling of helplessness and cant stand pain. Most victims go straight to how not be a victim not how to be more flexible. And onto this daddy issue, While she hates and steals from him she accepted the building plus twenty-five grand and calls it independence. That's not being independent that's being kept. And while she is ALWAYS and I do mean ALWAYS biting her lip and her thoughts trailing of as her mind wanders with the site of Jax is annoying enough its worse when she falls right into bed with him, And its not the act of sleeping with him but how it came about. He pretty much drags her to her apartment and into her room while kissing abnd apparently she has never lost her shyness (again not strong at all) because her brain melts from a damn kiss, be real.like she is a weak submissive woman when she is suppose to have spunk and sarcasm (I hadn't seen any, the one time she spouted something sarcastic she barley managed not to stutter she was so nervous so that doesn't count)It has an interesting spice to it but not when the lead female is weak willed and almost faints from a little violence. not my cup of tea. So I will not be completing this book nor the next one.
September 20, 2011
Synposis: "When a regular night of Robin Hood-ery results in the manifestation of some, um, unusual paranormal abilities, perfume-maker Elleodora Fredricks realizes the normal world she lives in isn't quite... normal. And neither is she, thanks to her father, king of the shadow elves. Not only is he evil incarnate and the reason Elle moonlights as a burglar-someone has to take care of all his victims-he's stolen her memories.
And only reading her fate can fix that.
Good thing she's got a trio of hotties willing to help her find said fate, but only if she gives them something in return. Saving her oracle BFF's fiance, falling in love with the gargoyle, and making up for breaking the phoenix's heart ought to be a piece of cake for the princess of the shadow elves.
If only the king didn't want his daughter dead..."
My Review: I thoroughly enjoyed this one, I could not put it down and read it all through work and finished it when I got home. Now I can't wait for the next book to come out! I loved the characters, and the story line. When I first started I was a little confused but I believe Jess Macallan ment for it to read like that because we learned what was going on along side of the MC Elle, it helped connect with her. Jax, oh my *fans self* total hottie, possessive hottie but when he come with wings and turns to stone who cares! I really really cannot wait for the next book to come out soon! I want to thank Erika from Badass Book Review Blog who hosted the giveaway I won this book from and also Danielle from Entangled publishing for sending it to me and allowing for the giveaway!
And only reading her fate can fix that.
Good thing she's got a trio of hotties willing to help her find said fate, but only if she gives them something in return. Saving her oracle BFF's fiance, falling in love with the gargoyle, and making up for breaking the phoenix's heart ought to be a piece of cake for the princess of the shadow elves.
If only the king didn't want his daughter dead..."
My Review: I thoroughly enjoyed this one, I could not put it down and read it all through work and finished it when I got home. Now I can't wait for the next book to come out! I loved the characters, and the story line. When I first started I was a little confused but I believe Jess Macallan ment for it to read like that because we learned what was going on along side of the MC Elle, it helped connect with her. Jax, oh my *fans self* total hottie, possessive hottie but when he come with wings and turns to stone who cares! I really really cannot wait for the next book to come out soon! I want to thank Erika from Badass Book Review Blog who hosted the giveaway I won this book from and also Danielle from Entangled publishing for sending it to me and allowing for the giveaway!
July 17, 2012
Elle is the daughter of a particularly nasty man who happens to be the King of the Shadow Elves. She has suffered through an abusive childhood and has had major portions of her memory stripped away. Stuff happens, she gets together with a gargoyle, finds out she has powers and that her father has been withholding her fate from her. Yeah, fates get written down on bits of paper in this world. Oh, and perhaps most importantly – she was engaged to a phoenix when she was young. For three quarters of this book Elle is not that interesting a character. She just kind of wanders along behind the men who are busy telling her what to do. She has more than one TSTL moment and she doesn’t question ANYTHING! Hell, one of the other characters in the book even tells her she’s not worthy. But in the last quarter of the book, well she really starts to come into her own.
Why her mother didn’t remove Elle from the abusive visits with her father I just don’t know. I have the feeling that there must be more to the story than that the mother just simply didn’t know about the abuse. There just has to be. Elle strangely has no lingering resentment of her mother for continuing to send her to her father or for not figuring out what was happening to her daughter. Which is why I’ll be checking out the next book. There’s just so much that I don’t know and am curious about. This book sets up the world and the what the basic story arc will be for the series and once you get through the clunky beginning it shows real promise to be an interesting series.
Full Review posted at Wandering Hues
Why her mother didn’t remove Elle from the abusive visits with her father I just don’t know. I have the feeling that there must be more to the story than that the mother just simply didn’t know about the abuse. There just has to be. Elle strangely has no lingering resentment of her mother for continuing to send her to her father or for not figuring out what was happening to her daughter. Which is why I’ll be checking out the next book. There’s just so much that I don’t know and am curious about. This book sets up the world and the what the basic story arc will be for the series and once you get through the clunky beginning it shows real promise to be an interesting series.
Full Review posted at Wandering Hues
September 27, 2011
Full Review: Elle is happy running her organic soap shop by day and stealing priceless artifacts from her father at night. She’s got a hot male employee who catches her in the act of stealing, but rather than turn her in, he helps her get away! Turns out Jax is not human, but neither is Elle, she just didn’t know it yet. Dad is an evil master manipulator who deserves to be punished.
I am not one to start new series anymore; I hate waiting for the next one and prefer to read them all in one fell swoop. I enjoyed this story until I realized there was no way to get everything wrapped up well with the short amount of material left. While I am glad that Ms. Macallan didn’t just hurry up and end it, I would have liked a bit more resolution, rather than the semi-cliffhanger she left us with.
While this story does rely on many of the same conventions seen in romantic fiction lately, such as two hot guys that are interested in her, and memory loss. I like the new spin on light and dark elves, with gargoyles and phoenixes tossed in the mix. I especially loved Elle’s own comment, “Please tell me the Twilight series isn’t based on real people.” Jax’s answer, “Vampires and werewolves are myths.” Nice to know the conventions are recognized and made fun of even as they are useful. Elle and her best friend, Teryl, not gay men (yeah!) have a great relationship steeped in humor and sarcasm. I could get along with Elle quite well myself. I’ll be looking for the next one!
October 16, 2011
Stone Cold Seduction is a fun start to a great new series ~ Set in Stone. Jess Macallan has created a lovely cast of characters and an interesting setting for their adventures. She has pretty much smashed the "rules" of what readers have come to expect with the "normal" paranormal novels.
Well, I have to say that I was completely taken with the heroine Elle. She's funny, snarky and compassionate. She's also very much her own woman. Where her upbringing should have crushed her, it only made her into a force to be reckoned with. Her lovelife is a bit of a mess, but what a mess to be in! Yum Jax..
One of the things that I liked the most about this story is that it is fresh. We are introduced to some characters that aren't quite the norm in the fantasy/paranormal genre lately. Not many gargoyles and phoenixes are in leading roles; it's a nice change that makes for an intriguing tale.
About the only thing I didn't care for was the abrupt ending. I realize it is setting us up for the next book, but I felt a tad rushed and wasn't ready for it to be over. Fortunately that wait won't be long as the next two in the trilogy come out in October and November!
This book was an enjoyable read that I quickly devoured. Readers who enjoy romance, fantasy, and unusual characters will love this story.
Well, I have to say that I was completely taken with the heroine Elle. She's funny, snarky and compassionate. She's also very much her own woman. Where her upbringing should have crushed her, it only made her into a force to be reckoned with. Her lovelife is a bit of a mess, but what a mess to be in! Yum Jax..
One of the things that I liked the most about this story is that it is fresh. We are introduced to some characters that aren't quite the norm in the fantasy/paranormal genre lately. Not many gargoyles and phoenixes are in leading roles; it's a nice change that makes for an intriguing tale.
About the only thing I didn't care for was the abrupt ending. I realize it is setting us up for the next book, but I felt a tad rushed and wasn't ready for it to be over. Fortunately that wait won't be long as the next two in the trilogy come out in October and November!
This book was an enjoyable read that I quickly devoured. Readers who enjoy romance, fantasy, and unusual characters will love this story.
August 9, 2011
Stone Cold Seduction by Jess Macallen begins the Set in Stone series; it is due to be released on September 6 2011. This urban fantasy offers readers a new world and set of characters that are well built and entertaining. The combination of independent, but previously abused, heroine with three hot guys on a quest to figure out what the world has in store for them in the future leads to a fun and interesting story that left me wanting more.There is humor, complicated love story, some hot scenes and just enough snarkiness to keep me happy. Elle never accepted a pat on the head and being told what to do. She wanted the all the facts and a part of the planning in the choices that would affect her life and the lives of those she cares about. Even when she agreed to do what someone else wanted, she was always thinking about what would be best for everyone, not just herself, and does her best to make it happen. I recommend Stone Cold Seduction to fans of urban fantasy and paranormal romance. Particularly readers that enjoy heroines that think for themselves even when overwhelmed and outnumbered.
My complete review is available here on Associated Content.
My complete review is available here on Associated Content.
August 14, 2011
STONE COLD SEDUCTION is a great romance. After reading a few campy, prosaic paranormals, it was refreshing to read Elle's story. I wasn't a fan of the rather abrupt ending, but I should be used to that by now, as it seems to be the trend, especially in ebooks, where it's hard to tell how much of a story is left. Aside from that, the romance was well done, the love triangle aspect was not utterly overdone (I could understand the attraction she had for both men) and the fantasy angle was intriguing. There's clearly more to tell in this world, though I wish the author had gone into a little more detail about the magic system.
The love scenes were spectacular, and I particularly liked the parts where Elle mixes up potions for her aromatherapy business. I had to acclimate myself to the unique descriptions of gargoyles and phoenixes, but once I got that figured out, I enjoyed the story.
The ending, while wrapping up the major points of the plot for this story, clearly left an opening for the next book, and it will be interesting to see which magical being Elle ends up with, and what sort of new powers she'll discover.
I received this book as a digital ARC from Netgalley.
The love scenes were spectacular, and I particularly liked the parts where Elle mixes up potions for her aromatherapy business. I had to acclimate myself to the unique descriptions of gargoyles and phoenixes, but once I got that figured out, I enjoyed the story.
The ending, while wrapping up the major points of the plot for this story, clearly left an opening for the next book, and it will be interesting to see which magical being Elle ends up with, and what sort of new powers she'll discover.
I received this book as a digital ARC from Netgalley.
September 21, 2011
Previously Published on my blog: Welcome to Larissa's Bookish Life
*NO Spoilers
Ok, so thanks to Jess Macallan, Gargoyles are HOT! LOL
But let me rewind a bit. More often than not I find myself fairly entertained by a novel and a couple really weird plot points away of giving up, when the author turns it all around and makes me thoroughly enjoy a book.
This is exactly what happened with Stone Cold Seduction for me. Elle is a pretty interesting heroine, but the discrepancies in her attitudes and personality made me want to twist her neck innumerous times.
However, it were the secondary characters the hero and the world building that kept me going and I am SO glad that I did! Jess got me in the end and I was hooked and panting for the next book in the series.
Yes, the heroine got on my nerves, but she did get better towards the end and the eye candy + interesting plot kept me interested.
In a genre that is on the verge of running dry on originality, Jess was a breath of fresh air and I loved the world she created and I cannot wait to read more!
*NO Spoilers
Ok, so thanks to Jess Macallan, Gargoyles are HOT! LOL
But let me rewind a bit. More often than not I find myself fairly entertained by a novel and a couple really weird plot points away of giving up, when the author turns it all around and makes me thoroughly enjoy a book.
This is exactly what happened with Stone Cold Seduction for me. Elle is a pretty interesting heroine, but the discrepancies in her attitudes and personality made me want to twist her neck innumerous times.
However, it were the secondary characters the hero and the world building that kept me going and I am SO glad that I did! Jess got me in the end and I was hooked and panting for the next book in the series.
Yes, the heroine got on my nerves, but she did get better towards the end and the eye candy + interesting plot kept me interested.
In a genre that is on the verge of running dry on originality, Jess was a breath of fresh air and I loved the world she created and I cannot wait to read more!
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