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Thirty Minutes to Heartbreak #1
Paramount
It is a universal fact that humans are unfaithful. Penalties for this are usually unimpressive, but when a betrayed woman happens to be a goddess, consequences might be a little different...
Pax Burnson is the descendant of devas. She has vowed to live her life without practicing her powers, but recent events have overturned her entire existence. Thorn Kalgren has been the love of her life since she was fourteen — he helped her to heal after the loss of her parents. As a close family friend, he is one of a select few who understand and share her unique heritage. Over the years, he became her everything. Pax is now 26, and his betrayal has released a violence within her that she cannot restrain.
While her first instinct is to escape and forget, her aimless road trip is interrupted by a childhood friend in need. An idea strikes Pax as she sees her own pain reflected in Thorn's sister, Amara Kalgren. She is suddenly filled with a new, all-consuming purpose: vengeance. She believes there is nothing else left.
Using ancient magick and enlisting Amara's help, Pax orchestrates a complex, drawn-out plan to deceive and emotionally destroy her former lover. The friendship and loyalty between the two girls becomes fortified and unshakable as they venture down a dark and twisted path together, encountering formidable roadblocks and demons.
It soon becomes clear to Pax that everything she has been led to believe about her powers and her past was shaped by blatant lies. When she discovers that Thorn's infidelity is closely linked with her mother's death, she is forced to make a life-altering decision...
Pax Burnson is the descendant of devas. She has vowed to live her life without practicing her powers, but recent events have overturned her entire existence. Thorn Kalgren has been the love of her life since she was fourteen — he helped her to heal after the loss of her parents. As a close family friend, he is one of a select few who understand and share her unique heritage. Over the years, he became her everything. Pax is now 26, and his betrayal has released a violence within her that she cannot restrain.
While her first instinct is to escape and forget, her aimless road trip is interrupted by a childhood friend in need. An idea strikes Pax as she sees her own pain reflected in Thorn's sister, Amara Kalgren. She is suddenly filled with a new, all-consuming purpose: vengeance. She believes there is nothing else left.
Using ancient magick and enlisting Amara's help, Pax orchestrates a complex, drawn-out plan to deceive and emotionally destroy her former lover. The friendship and loyalty between the two girls becomes fortified and unshakable as they venture down a dark and twisted path together, encountering formidable roadblocks and demons.
It soon becomes clear to Pax that everything she has been led to believe about her powers and her past was shaped by blatant lies. When she discovers that Thorn's infidelity is closely linked with her mother's death, she is forced to make a life-altering decision...
375 pages, ebook
First published June 25, 2012
38 people are currently reading
1116 people want to read
About the author
Nadia Scrieva
17 books243 followersNadia Scrieva lives in Toronto, Canada with no husband, no kids, and no pets. She does own a very attractive houseplant which she occasionally remembers to water between her all-consuming writing marathons.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
June 27, 2012
There's no way I could possibly do this novel justice. Fire is an accurate element to be associated with this book. The girls (mostly Pax) have gone through so much that they have do deal with the raw emotion of it all and they can be angry, vengeful, and seductive. The action is quite consistent; and like Drowning Mermaids there's a lot of secrets sure to cause drama down the road.
As with her other novels (Drowning Mermaids), the author is sublime at articulating relate-able feelings underneath all of the energy, telekinesis, spells, all of that. The author does not hold back the betrayal fury -- and I love that! Too often reactions to betrayal are helplessness, it's nice to have some anger. I really enjoyed the relate-ability of the relationships. You have the relationship between the girls, the relationship between the guys, and the familial (friends) relationship between them all that each have their own redeeming and not-so redeeming qualities that underlay every action.
Whenever the girls merge, you're on the edge of your seat waiting to find out what they're going to do in this thirty minutes and if they will get out of there in time! As always, the author paints out vivid scenes that immerse you for hours.
As with her other novels (Drowning Mermaids), the author is sublime at articulating relate-able feelings underneath all of the energy, telekinesis, spells, all of that. The author does not hold back the betrayal fury -- and I love that! Too often reactions to betrayal are helplessness, it's nice to have some anger. I really enjoyed the relate-ability of the relationships. You have the relationship between the girls, the relationship between the guys, and the familial (friends) relationship between them all that each have their own redeeming and not-so redeeming qualities that underlay every action.
Whenever the girls merge, you're on the edge of your seat waiting to find out what they're going to do in this thirty minutes and if they will get out of there in time! As always, the author paints out vivid scenes that immerse you for hours.
September 14, 2012
A more accurate rating would be 3.5. There were some things that frustrated me.
I was initially feeling like it had incomplete world building, but a quick google search turned up that the basis is the Buddhist belief system. Unfortunately many readers, like me, will not recognize this, so the incorporation of some discreet background information for the uninformed would be useful. My internet was down when I was reading, so I couldn't look into it until after I finished.
But the characters are interesting and it is easy to get hooked into the story. It had some overly intense sexual elements, which were made somewhat more uncomfortable by the incestuous aspects of them.
The final frustration is that it ends on a cliffhanger. A book should stand independently, not end on a cliff-hanger, trying to force the reader to buy the next volume.
I was initially feeling like it had incomplete world building, but a quick google search turned up that the basis is the Buddhist belief system. Unfortunately many readers, like me, will not recognize this, so the incorporation of some discreet background information for the uninformed would be useful. My internet was down when I was reading, so I couldn't look into it until after I finished.
But the characters are interesting and it is easy to get hooked into the story. It had some overly intense sexual elements, which were made somewhat more uncomfortable by the incestuous aspects of them.
The final frustration is that it ends on a cliffhanger. A book should stand independently, not end on a cliff-hanger, trying to force the reader to buy the next volume.
February 19, 2014
I have never read a book that more succinctly embodies the quote "Power corrupts; absolute power corrupts absolutely." Of all the characters in the story that have any deva blood in them, not a one, except perhaps Sakra, has a solid sense of morality about them. Pax, Amara, Asher, and Thorn all readily abuse their power to manipulate the opposite sex, while Vince and Raymond are so casually arrogant about how much better they are than normal humans, it's infuriating. The author portrays Pax as the main protagonist, but I don't see her as being any better than the Asura, who are supposedly the "bad guys" here. At least Suja and the others are upfront about how they wish to use their powers.
The biggest problem I have with this book is that no one receives any repercussions for their horrible actions. Pax is still willing (more or less) to be with Thorn despite his wandering eye, and Amara still wants to be with Asher despite him tossing her aside like garbage. The worst though, is
One other issue I had was with the complete inability of Thorn and Asher to think with anything other than their dicks. It really stretches suspension of disbelief that given their history, they could go the entire book and not realize what's going on.
I have to say, I have absolutely no interest in learning what happens to any of these characters next. I'm content to leave everyone where they were and hope that the Asura wipe those smug bastards off the face of the planet.
The biggest problem I have with this book is that no one receives any repercussions for their horrible actions. Pax is still willing (more or less) to be with Thorn despite his wandering eye, and Amara still wants to be with Asher despite him tossing her aside like garbage. The worst though, is
One other issue I had was with the complete inability of Thorn and Asher to think with anything other than their dicks. It really stretches suspension of disbelief that given their history, they could go the entire book and not realize what's going on.
I have to say, I have absolutely no interest in learning what happens to any of these characters next. I'm content to leave everyone where they were and hope that the Asura wipe those smug bastards off the face of the planet.
September 24, 2012
I am marking this book as read and loved!! By loved I really mean looOOOooooved!
Childhood best friends Pax Burnson (tom boy, tough girl, granddaughter of the fire deva) and Amara Kalgren (deva descendant who was shopping more than practicing her magic)are both left heartbroken and wanting revenge. Revenge! Pax has been dating Amara's sucessful brother Thornton Kalgren while Amara has been dating Pax's not so successful Uncle Ashton Burnson. (I just love the names) Are you still with me? The book definitely has a soap opera feel to it. The girls come up with a brilliant plan to make the boys suffer the way they have.
I love the relationships between the characters. I felt connected to all of them. I was cheering them on and getting mad and frustrated. It was a roller coaster of emotion. The way Pax and Amara talk remind me so much of how my best friend and I would talk if we were demi godessess seeking out revenge by means of ancient magic! Oh and we would if we could! With several twists and turns the girls learn of many secrets. Secrets from their boyfriends and from their families, they have a few of their own also.
By practicing ancient magics they attract the attention of Suja, Queen of the Asura, who has been having marital problems for centuries with Sakra, Lord of the devas. Bitter and power hungry she's been up to no good. *note to author... I would love to hear their story too!
Best friends, revenge, magic, battles, love, betrayal, secrets, seriously hot guys, humor, this has it all! It's soap opera, comic book and mythology all rolled into one.
Childhood best friends Pax Burnson (tom boy, tough girl, granddaughter of the fire deva) and Amara Kalgren (deva descendant who was shopping more than practicing her magic)are both left heartbroken and wanting revenge. Revenge! Pax has been dating Amara's sucessful brother Thornton Kalgren while Amara has been dating Pax's not so successful Uncle Ashton Burnson. (I just love the names) Are you still with me? The book definitely has a soap opera feel to it. The girls come up with a brilliant plan to make the boys suffer the way they have.
I love the relationships between the characters. I felt connected to all of them. I was cheering them on and getting mad and frustrated. It was a roller coaster of emotion. The way Pax and Amara talk remind me so much of how my best friend and I would talk if we were demi godessess seeking out revenge by means of ancient magic! Oh and we would if we could! With several twists and turns the girls learn of many secrets. Secrets from their boyfriends and from their families, they have a few of their own also.
By practicing ancient magics they attract the attention of Suja, Queen of the Asura, who has been having marital problems for centuries with Sakra, Lord of the devas. Bitter and power hungry she's been up to no good. *note to author... I would love to hear their story too!
Best friends, revenge, magic, battles, love, betrayal, secrets, seriously hot guys, humor, this has it all! It's soap opera, comic book and mythology all rolled into one.
June 29, 2012
This novel is great! It’s an On-the-edge-of-your-seat-nail-biting-hole-in-one.
The action starts on the very first page.
Pax and Amara use magick to perform something very unique to exact their revenge. Something I haven’t seen before
This story has everything: Love, Hate, deceit and deception, revenge and lots of humor. The author also does an exceptional job at conveying the inner turmoil that the characters experience.
As you read this novel vivid images will leap at you with every turn of the page. Take two friends, Pax and Amera, who are dead set on revenge against their boyfriends, Thornton and Asher, throw in 2 sets of not-so-usual parents and you’ve got a story that will entertain you from beginning to end.
The ending, as with the rest of Nadia Scrieva’s work is a total surprise.
There is nothing boring about this novel and it deserves a 5 star rating.
The action starts on the very first page.
Pax and Amara use magick to perform something very unique to exact their revenge. Something I haven’t seen before
This story has everything: Love, Hate, deceit and deception, revenge and lots of humor. The author also does an exceptional job at conveying the inner turmoil that the characters experience.
As you read this novel vivid images will leap at you with every turn of the page. Take two friends, Pax and Amera, who are dead set on revenge against their boyfriends, Thornton and Asher, throw in 2 sets of not-so-usual parents and you’ve got a story that will entertain you from beginning to end.
The ending, as with the rest of Nadia Scrieva’s work is a total surprise.
There is nothing boring about this novel and it deserves a 5 star rating.
July 31, 2012
It' is now 3:47am, I have to be up in a few. Downloaded this book earlier tonight from Amazon and could not put it down until I finished. Can't wait the second one.
March 6, 2013
Original review here: http://offbeatvagabond.blogspot.com/2013/03/bewitching-book-tours-presents-indie.html
Paramount is a story that follow a young part demi-goddess who is pissed. She is beyond pissed. She just caught her long time boyfriend with another a girl and given her powers and temper, she shouldn't be near anyone. She can control fire. Well she can create fire. She then finds out that her uncle has also treated her best friend like crap. Her best friend, Amara, is also a part demi-goddess, but she isn't as strong as Pax. So they devise a plan to pay the men back. They practice a magic that they shouldn't to get back at the men. But with that magic, something wicked is coming after Pax and she doesn't know from where. On top of that, there are things about her family's past that are being brought to light. She finds that everyone she trust may have been lying to her for a long time.
AHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!! Goodness gracious! I haven't been this emotional over a book since the ending of Moning's Dreamfever. I enjoyed this book, but found myself yelling at it and wanting to reach in an punch some sense into all the characters. It was just too much. I think Scrieva must be an evil genius because this book was torture, but in a good way.
The story of this book is insane and honestly, something I would do if I were pissed. This is why you don't mess with a woman because the things we come up with might even make the devil cry. Pax is so angry at what her boyfriend, Thorn, has done to her. They have been together forever (seriously, he is also a demi-god and has been around awhile), that she and her friend use a powerful spell that would combine them into one woman they name Para. They want to use that woman to get back at Ash (Amara's boyfriend and Pax's uncle) and at Thorn (Amara's brother and Pax's boyfriend). They want to make them fall in love with Para and then rip their hearts out like the guys did to them. I loved this idea. I also like learning about the repercussions, but they are only mentioned In this book. I can't wait to find out all the things that could happen with doing this spell. I know it will be huge. There is something much bigger going on that they don't know about.
This is a very character driven story which I like because I love and hate these characters. Pax is crazy and violent due to her bloodlines, but I liked her. She had a lot of fire (literally and figuratively). If she is angry, you better get the hell out of the way. Amara was fun, but she was super girly. She was brilliant, but you can tell she is used to being spoiled. I love how much courage she gets when she and Pax are Para though. It seems like she needed Para more than Pax. I also loved the parents in this book especially Thorn's dad Vincent. God or not, that is the most unusual and entertaining man ever. He doesn't have a filter, so the things that come out of his mouth will leave your mouth open. But I love the secrets that get revealed when we meet them. There Is much more to the story then you think.
Now on to the men. Oh boy. When we first meet Thorn and Ash, I wanted to puke. They were just major a**holes. I just kept thinking, “These can't be the guys these women are in love with. Something is not right here.” But that changed after they meet Para. She is the combination of the women they just left and they see it, but can't out their fingers on it. I love after the few times of being around Para (Pax and Amara can only be combined for 30 minutes at a time), we get inside the mens' heads. We see their reasons for doing what they did. Well more for Ash. I felt so sorry for him actually. I wanted to smack him, but I felt sorry for him. Same for Thorn until his last slip up which I want an explanation for. I mean, this pissed me off. Why didn't you come clean right then and there Pax? Why didn't you confront him? Goodness, I wish I could say it.
Ok, as you can tell, I enjoyed this book. But I will now cover why I was screaming. First off, as I mentioned, this is very character driven. So much so, the worldbuilding is barely there. I mean, I don't even know if this book is set in the present day or in the future. How did demigods come to live on Earth? Does this world know that demigods exist or is it a secret? I want to know. Another issue were the potential sex scenes. Para is the combination of both Pax and Amara. Amara is Thorn's sister and Pax is Ash's niece. So Ash and Thorn trying to get into Para's pants was a bit uncomfortable at times because technically there are hitting on their own family members, they just don't know it. Another problem was what the girls learn while being Para. The guys think Para is completely human, so they don't know she can read their thoughts. We hear their thoughts and why they did what they did. But even after that, the girls want to continue being Para. Why? Sure what they did was awful, but after hearing their thoughts, they obviously had their reasons. Amara was talking about how charming Thorn can be and it is a trick. How can it be when he doesn't know you are in his head? He is obviously being genuine. Well I hope so anyway. Seriously, I need an explanation about that last slip up.
There is no way I can fully explain all I want to explain about this book without spoiling. It is a great read. Hell, I am putting this on my favorites list. I found myself laughing on one page and nearly in tears the next. My goodness, this book was really funny. I loved it, but the emotions I had toward these characters were so strong. It drove me crazy. And that is why Scrieva is an evil genius. This book forces you into these characters emotions and makes you feel what they fell. You could take out all of the paranormal aspects of this book and it would still be a captivating read. You have to read this book yourself to experience what I am trying to say. I am not sure my review will quite do this book justice. Just read it. It is for free on Amazon.
Paramount is a story that follow a young part demi-goddess who is pissed. She is beyond pissed. She just caught her long time boyfriend with another a girl and given her powers and temper, she shouldn't be near anyone. She can control fire. Well she can create fire. She then finds out that her uncle has also treated her best friend like crap. Her best friend, Amara, is also a part demi-goddess, but she isn't as strong as Pax. So they devise a plan to pay the men back. They practice a magic that they shouldn't to get back at the men. But with that magic, something wicked is coming after Pax and she doesn't know from where. On top of that, there are things about her family's past that are being brought to light. She finds that everyone she trust may have been lying to her for a long time.
AHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!! Goodness gracious! I haven't been this emotional over a book since the ending of Moning's Dreamfever. I enjoyed this book, but found myself yelling at it and wanting to reach in an punch some sense into all the characters. It was just too much. I think Scrieva must be an evil genius because this book was torture, but in a good way.
The story of this book is insane and honestly, something I would do if I were pissed. This is why you don't mess with a woman because the things we come up with might even make the devil cry. Pax is so angry at what her boyfriend, Thorn, has done to her. They have been together forever (seriously, he is also a demi-god and has been around awhile), that she and her friend use a powerful spell that would combine them into one woman they name Para. They want to use that woman to get back at Ash (Amara's boyfriend and Pax's uncle) and at Thorn (Amara's brother and Pax's boyfriend). They want to make them fall in love with Para and then rip their hearts out like the guys did to them. I loved this idea. I also like learning about the repercussions, but they are only mentioned In this book. I can't wait to find out all the things that could happen with doing this spell. I know it will be huge. There is something much bigger going on that they don't know about.
This is a very character driven story which I like because I love and hate these characters. Pax is crazy and violent due to her bloodlines, but I liked her. She had a lot of fire (literally and figuratively). If she is angry, you better get the hell out of the way. Amara was fun, but she was super girly. She was brilliant, but you can tell she is used to being spoiled. I love how much courage she gets when she and Pax are Para though. It seems like she needed Para more than Pax. I also loved the parents in this book especially Thorn's dad Vincent. God or not, that is the most unusual and entertaining man ever. He doesn't have a filter, so the things that come out of his mouth will leave your mouth open. But I love the secrets that get revealed when we meet them. There Is much more to the story then you think.
Now on to the men. Oh boy. When we first meet Thorn and Ash, I wanted to puke. They were just major a**holes. I just kept thinking, “These can't be the guys these women are in love with. Something is not right here.” But that changed after they meet Para. She is the combination of the women they just left and they see it, but can't out their fingers on it. I love after the few times of being around Para (Pax and Amara can only be combined for 30 minutes at a time), we get inside the mens' heads. We see their reasons for doing what they did. Well more for Ash. I felt so sorry for him actually. I wanted to smack him, but I felt sorry for him. Same for Thorn until his last slip up which I want an explanation for. I mean, this pissed me off. Why didn't you come clean right then and there Pax? Why didn't you confront him? Goodness, I wish I could say it.
Ok, as you can tell, I enjoyed this book. But I will now cover why I was screaming. First off, as I mentioned, this is very character driven. So much so, the worldbuilding is barely there. I mean, I don't even know if this book is set in the present day or in the future. How did demigods come to live on Earth? Does this world know that demigods exist or is it a secret? I want to know. Another issue were the potential sex scenes. Para is the combination of both Pax and Amara. Amara is Thorn's sister and Pax is Ash's niece. So Ash and Thorn trying to get into Para's pants was a bit uncomfortable at times because technically there are hitting on their own family members, they just don't know it. Another problem was what the girls learn while being Para. The guys think Para is completely human, so they don't know she can read their thoughts. We hear their thoughts and why they did what they did. But even after that, the girls want to continue being Para. Why? Sure what they did was awful, but after hearing their thoughts, they obviously had their reasons. Amara was talking about how charming Thorn can be and it is a trick. How can it be when he doesn't know you are in his head? He is obviously being genuine. Well I hope so anyway. Seriously, I need an explanation about that last slip up.
There is no way I can fully explain all I want to explain about this book without spoiling. It is a great read. Hell, I am putting this on my favorites list. I found myself laughing on one page and nearly in tears the next. My goodness, this book was really funny. I loved it, but the emotions I had toward these characters were so strong. It drove me crazy. And that is why Scrieva is an evil genius. This book forces you into these characters emotions and makes you feel what they fell. You could take out all of the paranormal aspects of this book and it would still be a captivating read. You have to read this book yourself to experience what I am trying to say. I am not sure my review will quite do this book justice. Just read it. It is for free on Amazon.
October 15, 2017
Interesting concept from an author I really like. It is kind of hard to jump into, as it feels as if there should have been more background, but the story was engaging. Not sure what I think of either Pax or Amara, or even Para, but am interested in following the series...
August 9, 2012
Great Sakra, where to begin? I simply cannot express how much I LOVED this book. Love, lust, betrayal, vengeance... this book has it all, and author Nadia Scrieva gives us complex, interesting characters who are often even *more* complex and interesting once you get to know them.
And oh-my-gods, the plot is simply outstanding. Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned, right? Well, now imagine two women, both with goddess-like powers, who have been betrayed by their lovers (who also have god-like powers). I found Pax and Amara eminently relatable and interesting heroines: sure, they're both driven by a desire for vengeance, but it's a bit different for each of them because of who they are, and the circumstances in question.
I don't want to say too much for fear of any spoilers, but I think Scrieva pulled off a truly remarkable feat with the young women's plan for revenge. Scrieva took a number of risks in doing this, but she is only to be lauded the more for that, because of how spectacularly they paid off. The complex dynamic between heroines Pax and Amara and their respective exes, Thornton and Asher, is the more interesting because Thornton is Amara's brother and Asher is Pax's uncle, so you have family loyalties and betrayals as well.
And there were so many surprises and twists along the way, especially with regard to the characters of Ash and Thornton, that it really kept me guessing. At no point did I feel that any of the romance was clichéd or saccharine or predictable. I say that, because I'm often a little gun-shy about romance in fantasy, simply because I've read way too many clichés. But this book wasn't like that: I really admire how fresh and innovative it felt. This is not a fairy-tale story: the characters are far too human, and the world is far too complex.
On that note, I absolutely love what Scrieva does with this world. Her concept of devas draws on the wellsprings of mythology, specifically the idea that pure gods can beget semi-divine children with humans. I also love the way that she draws on Indic conceptions, with prana. And yet, the way that she handles their powers is eminently outstanding, because Scrieva realizes something important: any writer can create a character with remarkable magical powers; the important thing is to communicate *what these powers mean to the character.* Whether it's Pax expressing her rage in fiery form, or Thornton and Asher using their prana as a pick-up trick, the characters' use of the powers clearly *means* something to them, and is expressive of their internal state of mind.
So, in conclusion: this book is outstanding, and I cannot wait for the sequel, Parabellum. If you love fantasy in general, as well as urban/paranormal fantasy or fantasy romance in particular, or even if you just love a good story, *do not miss this book!*
And oh-my-gods, the plot is simply outstanding. Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned, right? Well, now imagine two women, both with goddess-like powers, who have been betrayed by their lovers (who also have god-like powers). I found Pax and Amara eminently relatable and interesting heroines: sure, they're both driven by a desire for vengeance, but it's a bit different for each of them because of who they are, and the circumstances in question.
I don't want to say too much for fear of any spoilers, but I think Scrieva pulled off a truly remarkable feat with the young women's plan for revenge. Scrieva took a number of risks in doing this, but she is only to be lauded the more for that, because of how spectacularly they paid off. The complex dynamic between heroines Pax and Amara and their respective exes, Thornton and Asher, is the more interesting because Thornton is Amara's brother and Asher is Pax's uncle, so you have family loyalties and betrayals as well.
And there were so many surprises and twists along the way, especially with regard to the characters of Ash and Thornton, that it really kept me guessing. At no point did I feel that any of the romance was clichéd or saccharine or predictable. I say that, because I'm often a little gun-shy about romance in fantasy, simply because I've read way too many clichés. But this book wasn't like that: I really admire how fresh and innovative it felt. This is not a fairy-tale story: the characters are far too human, and the world is far too complex.
On that note, I absolutely love what Scrieva does with this world. Her concept of devas draws on the wellsprings of mythology, specifically the idea that pure gods can beget semi-divine children with humans. I also love the way that she draws on Indic conceptions, with prana. And yet, the way that she handles their powers is eminently outstanding, because Scrieva realizes something important: any writer can create a character with remarkable magical powers; the important thing is to communicate *what these powers mean to the character.* Whether it's Pax expressing her rage in fiery form, or Thornton and Asher using their prana as a pick-up trick, the characters' use of the powers clearly *means* something to them, and is expressive of their internal state of mind.
So, in conclusion: this book is outstanding, and I cannot wait for the sequel, Parabellum. If you love fantasy in general, as well as urban/paranormal fantasy or fantasy romance in particular, or even if you just love a good story, *do not miss this book!*
March 20, 2013
Paramount (Thirty Minutes to Heartbreak, Book 1) by Nadia Scrieva is a paranormal romance novel about Pax Burnson, a descendant of devas. Pax has all sorts of special powers such as levitation, burning things with her hands, and super fighting strength. The book opens with Pax upset in her car because her boyfriend, Thorn Kalgren, cheated on her. Later, her childhood friend, Amara, is also heart broken when her lover, Pax’s uncle, breaks up with Amara. The girls team up and decide to use their deva powers to get revenge on their disloyal mates in a very unusual way.
Warning, this book is not for young readers. It has many swearwords and erotic scenes detailing sexual acts. This book is for adults only. If I had known this, I may not have read it. I don’t enjoy erotica.
The book is properly formatted and well written. It needs some minor editing of wordy sentences and sentences with too many words or missing words. The beginning was a little confusing, but keep reading it will come together after a couple of pages and from there makes perfect sense.
I liked the cover. It was one of the reasons I decided to read the book. The description also sounded interesting, but I think the description on Amazon was a bit misleading. This book is more about the relationships of the two girls and their heartbreak over the cheating, etc. than it is about the deva powers and the mother’s death. The first fifty percent of the book is the couples chasing each other around dealing with their relationship problems in an immature way, especially sense the main character Pax is supposed to be a doctor. It takes a certain maturity to make it through medical school, which I felt this character lacked. I also had a bit of a problem with the mens’ one-eighty change in attitude. First, they are horn-dogs out to get laid not caring for the women, and then their attitude just suddenly changes, and they are both depressed and sorrowful about breaking up with the girls. I saw no reason for the sudden change in attitude.
What the two girls do to get revenge on their boyfriends is an interesting idea. I just wish that no one was related to each other. The incest side of the mix did not help while reading the erotic parts. I could only think yuck. I’m not sure why any of the characters had to be related to each other. Perhaps it’s important in later books.
I enjoyed the deva and paranormal parts of the book far more than the romance parts and wish the book was more about those subjects instead of the relationships.
The book does not have a complete arch. It is more an intro to the characters’ problems so you will need to read on for a conclusion.
Overall, the novel has potential if the focus was less on the relationships, and the incest problem was fixed by making the characters not related to each other. The writer has definite potential. I really enjoyed many scenes.
Warning, this book is not for young readers. It has many swearwords and erotic scenes detailing sexual acts. This book is for adults only. If I had known this, I may not have read it. I don’t enjoy erotica.
The book is properly formatted and well written. It needs some minor editing of wordy sentences and sentences with too many words or missing words. The beginning was a little confusing, but keep reading it will come together after a couple of pages and from there makes perfect sense.
I liked the cover. It was one of the reasons I decided to read the book. The description also sounded interesting, but I think the description on Amazon was a bit misleading. This book is more about the relationships of the two girls and their heartbreak over the cheating, etc. than it is about the deva powers and the mother’s death. The first fifty percent of the book is the couples chasing each other around dealing with their relationship problems in an immature way, especially sense the main character Pax is supposed to be a doctor. It takes a certain maturity to make it through medical school, which I felt this character lacked. I also had a bit of a problem with the mens’ one-eighty change in attitude. First, they are horn-dogs out to get laid not caring for the women, and then their attitude just suddenly changes, and they are both depressed and sorrowful about breaking up with the girls. I saw no reason for the sudden change in attitude.
What the two girls do to get revenge on their boyfriends is an interesting idea. I just wish that no one was related to each other. The incest side of the mix did not help while reading the erotic parts. I could only think yuck. I’m not sure why any of the characters had to be related to each other. Perhaps it’s important in later books.
I enjoyed the deva and paranormal parts of the book far more than the romance parts and wish the book was more about those subjects instead of the relationships.
The book does not have a complete arch. It is more an intro to the characters’ problems so you will need to read on for a conclusion.
Overall, the novel has potential if the focus was less on the relationships, and the incest problem was fixed by making the characters not related to each other. The writer has definite potential. I really enjoyed many scenes.
May 28, 2013
I really, really wanted to like this book. I just had a hard time connecting with the characters. Pax always seemed too angry, and then she was too forgiving. And then she was angry again and then forgiving. And then... Yep, the cycle repeated. She had plenty of reason to be angry, but at some point, it just lost its power.
I wanted to see more development in Amara. She had all the weakness of a insecure woman, but none of the b*tchiness of a spoiled brat. It just didn't add up to how she was described. I would have liked to see more of Para's personality rub off on her towards the end of the book, and it didn't. If anything, Amara got weaker. I know...she's supposed to grow strong in the cube, but I wanted to see some kind of transformation before the end of book one, and I didn't see it.
Thorton....I was completely rooting for him at the beginning because I felt that Pax was missing out on something, but he totally lost my interest with the text. :-/ I'm not really sure he can be redeemed after that.
Ash was probably my most favorite character because I got his torment during the beach scene, and I understood his intentions (although he could have gone about it much more nicely).
The whole Para/Medea thing...great concept, but the guys/girls are related! I get that Para is her own entity, but still...it took away from the ability to get in the moments.
All in all, I just don't see myself reading the other two books. I don't feel vested in the characters enough to push aside other books I want to read in order to finish this series. :-(
I wanted to see more development in Amara. She had all the weakness of a insecure woman, but none of the b*tchiness of a spoiled brat. It just didn't add up to how she was described. I would have liked to see more of Para's personality rub off on her towards the end of the book, and it didn't. If anything, Amara got weaker. I know...she's supposed to grow strong in the cube, but I wanted to see some kind of transformation before the end of book one, and I didn't see it.
Thorton....I was completely rooting for him at the beginning because I felt that Pax was missing out on something, but he totally lost my interest with the text. :-/ I'm not really sure he can be redeemed after that.
Ash was probably my most favorite character because I got his torment during the beach scene, and I understood his intentions (although he could have gone about it much more nicely).
The whole Para/Medea thing...great concept, but the guys/girls are related! I get that Para is her own entity, but still...it took away from the ability to get in the moments.
All in all, I just don't see myself reading the other two books. I don't feel vested in the characters enough to push aside other books I want to read in order to finish this series. :-(
August 30, 2012
Pax Burnson is the descendant of devas, but after her mother dies vows that she will never use her powers. Amara, her best friend, is also a deva but was always more interested in shopping and fashion than her powers. When Amara's brother Thornton cheats on Pax and Pax's uncle Ash breaks up with Amara watch out. Hell hath no fury like two devas scorned. They team up and use ancient magick to merge together and create a woman, Para, that no one can resist, with one small problem. They can only stay this way for 30 minutes at a time. And with that they go forward to seek revenge on their ex's.
From the first page to the last I was hooked. Nadia writes very likable and strong women. You can't help but root for Pax and Amara as they go about their revenge, but at the same time find that you like Thorn and Ash also. It has so many twists, I couldn't help but talk out loud to the book as Para was trying to get away from Ash and he kept pulling her back, with only minutes before she split back into the two women. And in true Nadia fashion the ending leaves you wanting more, and I do want more. I fell in love with her books starting with the Sacred Breath Series( if you haven't read these you should)and I'm so glad there is another series from her just as wonderful. I can't wait to read book 2. I received this book through Goodreads from Nadia and I highly recommend it. Once again Thank you Nadia for writing such wonderful stories.
From the first page to the last I was hooked. Nadia writes very likable and strong women. You can't help but root for Pax and Amara as they go about their revenge, but at the same time find that you like Thorn and Ash also. It has so many twists, I couldn't help but talk out loud to the book as Para was trying to get away from Ash and he kept pulling her back, with only minutes before she split back into the two women. And in true Nadia fashion the ending leaves you wanting more, and I do want more. I fell in love with her books starting with the Sacred Breath Series( if you haven't read these you should)and I'm so glad there is another series from her just as wonderful. I can't wait to read book 2. I received this book through Goodreads from Nadia and I highly recommend it. Once again Thank you Nadia for writing such wonderful stories.
August 26, 2012
You may have heard the saying that ‘Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned’ but it is even worse when the women in question happen to be powerful demi-gods. When close friends Pax and Amara both have their hearts broken, they decide that the best way to get over their pain is revenge. Only the combined power of the two women is enough to get the revenge they desire, but utilising that much power can be dangerous. When they attract the attention of beings even more powerful than themselves, they may need help from the very people who hurt them in the first place.
"Paramount" is very unique; never before have I read a book with a similar plot and feel to it. The story kept me hooked throughout until I reached the end. My only disappointment with the book was that it ended; I wanted to keep on reading it forever. The characters are engaging and the chemistry between them all is sexy and tense but very believable. Pax is the type of female protagonist that I love - smart, strong and very badass. If you like your romances to have lots of passion and action then you will love "Paramount". Nadia Screiva is an excellent author who writes great romances that are one of a kind and very different from anything else available. I am eagerly awaiting to the sequel to "Paramount" as the ending is quite sudden and I can’t wait to find out what happens next to Pax and Amara.
Reviewed for readers favourite
"Paramount" is very unique; never before have I read a book with a similar plot and feel to it. The story kept me hooked throughout until I reached the end. My only disappointment with the book was that it ended; I wanted to keep on reading it forever. The characters are engaging and the chemistry between them all is sexy and tense but very believable. Pax is the type of female protagonist that I love - smart, strong and very badass. If you like your romances to have lots of passion and action then you will love "Paramount". Nadia Screiva is an excellent author who writes great romances that are one of a kind and very different from anything else available. I am eagerly awaiting to the sequel to "Paramount" as the ending is quite sudden and I can’t wait to find out what happens next to Pax and Amara.
Reviewed for readers favourite
May 26, 2014
A friend of mine lent this to me telling me that this was a very interesting book.I think Scrieva pulled off a truly remarkable feat with the young women's plan for revenge. Scrieva took a number of risks in doing this, but she is only to be lauded the more for that, because of how spectacularly they paid off. The complex dynamic between heroines Pax and Amara and their respective exes, Thornton and Asher, is the more interesting because Thornton is Amara's brother and Asher is Pax's uncle, so you have family loyalties and betrayals as well.
And there were so many surprises and twists along the way, especially with regard to the characters of Ash and Thornton, that it really kept me guessing. At no point did I feel that any of the romance was clichéd or saccharine or predictable. I say that, because I'm often a little gun-shy about romance in fantasy, simply because I've read way too many clichés. But this book wasn't like that: I really admire how fresh and innovative it felt.I loved it.
And there were so many surprises and twists along the way, especially with regard to the characters of Ash and Thornton, that it really kept me guessing. At no point did I feel that any of the romance was clichéd or saccharine or predictable. I say that, because I'm often a little gun-shy about romance in fantasy, simply because I've read way too many clichés. But this book wasn't like that: I really admire how fresh and innovative it felt.I loved it.
August 31, 2013
I read a lot of paranormal and this book centered on a different aspect not usually popularized - Indian gods (I hope I'm getting that right, if not, apologies!) I found this book mostly interesting but for some reason there's something holding me back from loving this book. I think it's that everyone's actions were so shallow...each of the four main characters was attempting to hide their feelings, which of course, only led to more pain for all involved.
On the pro side there's lots of magick (inherited powers, so not much explanation there), lots of secrets from the adults (isn't that always the case?), some sizzly love/sex scenes, and best of all some character growth.
I'm intrigued enough to want to read #2, but I'm still glad this was free.
On the pro side there's lots of magick (inherited powers, so not much explanation there), lots of secrets from the adults (isn't that always the case?), some sizzly love/sex scenes, and best of all some character growth.
I'm intrigued enough to want to read #2, but I'm still glad this was free.
August 14, 2012
I received a paperback copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. I was not previously acquainted with Ms. Scrieva or her writing.
I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone who likes paranormal romance with alot of action. The characters were very well written and the story flowed along nicely. I just couldn't stop turning the pages. I had to see what would happen next. (One evening I read through to after 6:00am!) I'm very eager to read the sequel as soon as it becomes available. I can't really give more details without spoilers and I hate to spoil books by saying too much. Read it for yourself. You'll be glad you did.
I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone who likes paranormal romance with alot of action. The characters were very well written and the story flowed along nicely. I just couldn't stop turning the pages. I had to see what would happen next. (One evening I read through to after 6:00am!) I'm very eager to read the sequel as soon as it becomes available. I can't really give more details without spoilers and I hate to spoil books by saying too much. Read it for yourself. You'll be glad you did.
September 22, 2012
Oh my, where do I begin? How can I talk about it with out giving out any spoilers? Well I'll try my best!
I love the characters. Especially the main girls. I though this story, obviously except for the magic and demigods, was quite realistic! The story was well written and the author had some good twists that I had not seen coming. The ending left me with questions that I can't wait to be answered. I must get the second book!!! :D
I love the characters. Especially the main girls. I though this story, obviously except for the magic and demigods, was quite realistic! The story was well written and the author had some good twists that I had not seen coming. The ending left me with questions that I can't wait to be answered. I must get the second book!!! :D
March 26, 2013
The story is interesting, and I liked the paranormal aspects. However, there were long passages of internal dialogue which I skimmed as they went on and on. The main characters also had moments in which they seem more like silly romance heroines (Does he really love me? How could he do that to me?) than descendants of devas.
In two places, the word retard or retarded was used to mean stupid. Words matter, and using retard to mean stupid is offensive.
It is worthwhile to know that the story ends with a cliffhanger, not an ending. I did buy the next two books in the series and look forward to reading the resolution, but I prefer that even books in series, can stand alone.
In two places, the word retard or retarded was used to mean stupid. Words matter, and using retard to mean stupid is offensive.
It is worthwhile to know that the story ends with a cliffhanger, not an ending. I did buy the next two books in the series and look forward to reading the resolution, but I prefer that even books in series, can stand alone.
August 18, 2012
Pax and Amara are semi/demi godness and chilhood bestfriends. Thornton was Pax's first love and Amara's brother, Archer was Amara's love and Pax's uncle. After these two men broken their hearts, the girls are out for a revenge by using their godnesses power with Pax being the more capable and short temper of the two. But there's definitely more at play here as Pax is being visited by a demon who was sent by a family old enemy.
I don't normally like different POV's but in this case it wasn't a problem, I liked Pax and her cool abilities.
I don't normally like different POV's but in this case it wasn't a problem, I liked Pax and her cool abilities.
February 11, 2013
This is an interesting tale of people that are part "gods"and part human with powers beyond mere mortals. It was interesting and funny in parts and I probably will get the second book just to see what the two girls and their guys do to each other before they find their way back together. The writing was decent without a lot of grammatical errors like many of these books have these days. Probably not a fav but still worth a look.
December 20, 2013
I was really surprised by this novel. It kept me enthralled throughout. I loved Pax and Amara, Though I felt that even though Pax and Amara were joined at parts of the story, that the reader was still left in the dark about who Amara is. We don't see how really intelligent she is supposed to be. I also felt like Pax was explored, but we were missing some depth of her character. The story line was great and I definitely would like to read the next novel of the series.
March 12, 2014
An impressive book with a decent plot, strong background and organization. I enjoyed reading this book till the end, the story is so engaging. It just left me speechless through its romance and vivid plots.
Paramount is a lovely creation by Nadia Scrieva. So many twists are there in the story! I was so excited while reading through its suspense. Such a nice fantasy romance book which ended on a cliffhanger, wanna read the next verse sooner.
Paramount is a lovely creation by Nadia Scrieva. So many twists are there in the story! I was so excited while reading through its suspense. Such a nice fantasy romance book which ended on a cliffhanger, wanna read the next verse sooner.
February 17, 2013
Not too far off the beaten path to make the reader uncomfortable.
Novel enough to keep the reader paging.
The story is fast paced and a fun read.
The main female protagonist is truly a strong lead character and her counterpart is drool worthy.
Need to know more?
Well then download and read for yourself.
I really enjoyed it.
WaAr
Novel enough to keep the reader paging.
The story is fast paced and a fun read.
The main female protagonist is truly a strong lead character and her counterpart is drool worthy.
Need to know more?
Well then download and read for yourself.
I really enjoyed it.
WaAr
May 21, 2014
I really enjoyed this book! Pax is a strong heroine and I just love the unconventional approach to this book. It'd be hard to find another series where the main romantic interest is in the dog house for cheating! I absolutely hated Thornton even though he becomes more likable (begrudgingly) on my part. I loved it even more when I found out it was originally a Dragon Ball GT fanfiction!
March 2, 2013
Fast paced, entertaining. You are immediately thrown into this new type of world that is highly addicting.
Tempers and desires are very tumultuous and it's that type of volcanic eruptions that kept me waiting and wanting more.
Tempers and desires are very tumultuous and it's that type of volcanic eruptions that kept me waiting and wanting more.
May 14, 2013
This is the best book to read after a break up!! you get two strong woman who do a little magic and have a little revenge on their ex's xD fab-tastic!!
plus there's a great story line, humour, action and magic!
plus there's a great story line, humour, action and magic!
Want to read
September 2, 2012This is ASIN B008E08AXW
December 4, 2012
Dafuq did I just read? xDDD
[Review to come later]
[Review to come later]
February 25, 2013
Is a great book to read
October 13, 2013
3.5 stars
Needed tighter editing. And a bit more explanation of just what a deva is. Mostly the editing though.
Needed tighter editing. And a bit more explanation of just what a deva is. Mostly the editing though.
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