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Pierced #1
Pierced
Imagine the Girl with the Dragon Tattoo meets Betty Crocker.
That's Pierce in a nutshell.
Pierce has been on the run for two years from the man who held her captive in a vampire compound for almost a decade. Life on the run would be a lot simpler if she didn't suffer from several social disorders and 'quirks', have a ten-year-old brat in tow, as well as have two characters from a 1945 classic film living in her head and guiding her at every turn.
Updated Pierced Series Reading order:
Book 1 - PIERCED
Book 2- ESCAPED (novella formerly listed as Book 1.5)
Book 3 - PINKED
Book 4 - PERFECT
Book 5 - NAPOLEON (stand alone novella)
That's Pierce in a nutshell.
Pierce has been on the run for two years from the man who held her captive in a vampire compound for almost a decade. Life on the run would be a lot simpler if she didn't suffer from several social disorders and 'quirks', have a ten-year-old brat in tow, as well as have two characters from a 1945 classic film living in her head and guiding her at every turn.
Updated Pierced Series Reading order:
Book 1 - PIERCED
Book 2- ESCAPED (novella formerly listed as Book 1.5)
Book 3 - PINKED
Book 4 - PERFECT
Book 5 - NAPOLEON (stand alone novella)
333 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 9, 2013
16 people are currently reading
427 people want to read
About the author
J.C. Mells
10 books302 followersI have had every job from an ice cream truck driver to chocolate factory worker to waiting tables in a Las Vegas casino.
I grew up in the Middle East (Abadan, Iran) and Spain (Fuengirola, Costa Del Sol) and finally ended up finishing High School in England (Weymouth, Dorset). I emigrated to the United States in 1990, and returned to school at the ripe old age of 28, where I obtained a BA and then two MA degrees – all in New York, NY. (Hunter College, NYU and Columbia, respectively)
I have traveled extensively, including a 3 month stay in India, but have settled in Las Vegas, NV of all places where I have been living for the last 7 years with my two “babies” Alabama Worley Mells and Persephone Jayne Mells. (Yes, I have been called the Crazy Cat Lady).
Oh, and although I do share a love of Trance music and reality T.V. with my main character, I can’t cook to save my life!
JCM
I grew up in the Middle East (Abadan, Iran) and Spain (Fuengirola, Costa Del Sol) and finally ended up finishing High School in England (Weymouth, Dorset). I emigrated to the United States in 1990, and returned to school at the ripe old age of 28, where I obtained a BA and then two MA degrees – all in New York, NY. (Hunter College, NYU and Columbia, respectively)
I have traveled extensively, including a 3 month stay in India, but have settled in Las Vegas, NV of all places where I have been living for the last 7 years with my two “babies” Alabama Worley Mells and Persephone Jayne Mells. (Yes, I have been called the Crazy Cat Lady).
Oh, and although I do share a love of Trance music and reality T.V. with my main character, I can’t cook to save my life!
JCM
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
May 13, 2020
As I sit down to write this review I find myself still in a book coma. My brain can't seem to move forward. HOLY SNICKER-DOODLES what a book! I am completely blown away by Pierced.
This incredible story is raw and brutal at times. The beginning chapters tend to drag a bit but it is a necessary evil since it is where quite a bit of the back story takes place. Once you get past the third chapter the pacing of the story builds as each piece of the puzzle drops into place. The genre is listed as Urban Fantasy/Paranormal Romance. Truly I found no romance in this book, the harshness of Pierce's life I believe had no room for such luxuries, but this is most certainly UF/PN. There are vampires and werewolves (excuse me) wolves in this story but let me make it very clear this is not your typical paranormal story.
This book is loaded with an outstanding cast of characters with Pierce being the primary. There are so many important players I refuse to call any of them secondary. Each one of their unique personalities is so perfectly written by author J.C. Mells that if one went missing the story would collapse like a house of cards. Okay the inner monologues with Mildred and Veda were sometimes confusing and a bit annoy but I don't think the story would have been as powerful without them.
There is so much I would love to tell you about this book but this is one story you have to experience on your own. One only has to look at the cover to understand this is a very unique story. Pierced is hands down easily the best book I have read this year. I already see there is a novella in this series and I will be gobbling that up soon. J.C. Mells is definitely an author to watch. Pierced is a must read book.
Get. It. Now.
I received this book from JeepDiva for the express purpose of my honest review. The opinions and rating of this review are solely mine and in no way was I compensated.
Stars - 5
This incredible story is raw and brutal at times. The beginning chapters tend to drag a bit but it is a necessary evil since it is where quite a bit of the back story takes place. Once you get past the third chapter the pacing of the story builds as each piece of the puzzle drops into place. The genre is listed as Urban Fantasy/Paranormal Romance. Truly I found no romance in this book, the harshness of Pierce's life I believe had no room for such luxuries, but this is most certainly UF/PN. There are vampires and werewolves (excuse me) wolves in this story but let me make it very clear this is not your typical paranormal story.
This book is loaded with an outstanding cast of characters with Pierce being the primary. There are so many important players I refuse to call any of them secondary. Each one of their unique personalities is so perfectly written by author J.C. Mells that if one went missing the story would collapse like a house of cards. Okay the inner monologues with Mildred and Veda were sometimes confusing and a bit annoy but I don't think the story would have been as powerful without them.
There is so much I would love to tell you about this book but this is one story you have to experience on your own. One only has to look at the cover to understand this is a very unique story. Pierced is hands down easily the best book I have read this year. I already see there is a novella in this series and I will be gobbling that up soon. J.C. Mells is definitely an author to watch. Pierced is a must read book.
Get. It. Now.
I received this book from JeepDiva for the express purpose of my honest review. The opinions and rating of this review are solely mine and in no way was I compensated.
Stars - 5
February 10, 2014
I loved this book. I know, I know - I say that a lot - I can't help that I have really good luck picking books haha.
The story line has its moments (a few) where I'm kinda waiting for something to happen BUT the characters are wicked cool. The real ones, the imaginary ones, the good ones and the bad ones - the characters really make this story and have made me want to continue on with the rest of the series to see what happens. Being able to see both the real world and what goes on inside the main character's mind is just amazing and fun and, well, she thinks like me on a lot of points, which made things even cooler. Finding out along the way what made each one of these characters into the people that they are now was also cool and I hope that the author expands on some of the "lesser known" ones in the next books. Definitely a fun and easy read.
Note: There's a funny story here. Usually my note says "I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review," which is true - I did. What I failed to remember, though, when I agreed to read this story is that I ... already owned it. All I can say is that I probably found it for free on one of those websites that let you know when Amazon has things for free, thought it sounded awesome, downloaded it onto my Cloud ... and got so busy with other reads that I forgot about it. Goes to show, for anyone who was curious after seeing how many of these r2rs I actually do, that the books I agree to read are ones that I would have read without anyone handing me the book and asking me to do so. (There's actually been 5 such things - 3 books that I already owned, 2 that I owned the rest of the series.)
The story line has its moments (a few) where I'm kinda waiting for something to happen BUT the characters are wicked cool. The real ones, the imaginary ones, the good ones and the bad ones - the characters really make this story and have made me want to continue on with the rest of the series to see what happens. Being able to see both the real world and what goes on inside the main character's mind is just amazing and fun and, well, she thinks like me on a lot of points, which made things even cooler. Finding out along the way what made each one of these characters into the people that they are now was also cool and I hope that the author expands on some of the "lesser known" ones in the next books. Definitely a fun and easy read.
Note: There's a funny story here. Usually my note says "I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review," which is true - I did. What I failed to remember, though, when I agreed to read this story is that I ... already owned it. All I can say is that I probably found it for free on one of those websites that let you know when Amazon has things for free, thought it sounded awesome, downloaded it onto my Cloud ... and got so busy with other reads that I forgot about it. Goes to show, for anyone who was curious after seeing how many of these r2rs I actually do, that the books I agree to read are ones that I would have read without anyone handing me the book and asking me to do so. (There's actually been 5 such things - 3 books that I already owned, 2 that I owned the rest of the series.)
March 18, 2014
It's labelled as Urban Fantasy and Paranormal Romance, but I'll say straight away the romance is a bit of tension and some promise.
As to Urban Fantasy, yes, because it's a broad church and some of the usual UF suspects make their appearance (but not as you know them, Jim).
Pierce, the MC, is a young woman on the run from a dangerous, abusive, powerful man. She appears to have mental problems, but you're immediately wondering whether this is merely a sane reaction to insane trauma. She's so damaged she's not entirely sure that the responsibilities she's taken on are real or imagined. Are the people who appear to want to help her, real or imagined, friend or foe?
Lay all that in a background of humour, cooking recipes, trance music, pop references, piercing (obviously), and you have a compelling tale.
I did want to take a stick to the voices in her head, but they're integral. Stay with it. I skimmed the recipes, but then I'm male :-)
I'm still thinking about the end. It's clearly book 1 (it says so after all), and it ends on a cliffhanger which is kinda telegraphed (I think). But more subtle than that is the way the climax of the book is structured, turning the standard heroic finale formula on its head. I'll probably still be thinking about it after I've read book 2.
Recommended for UF readers who want something different, or anyone with an interest of a portrayal of a damaged MC.
As to Urban Fantasy, yes, because it's a broad church and some of the usual UF suspects make their appearance (but not as you know them, Jim).
Pierce, the MC, is a young woman on the run from a dangerous, abusive, powerful man. She appears to have mental problems, but you're immediately wondering whether this is merely a sane reaction to insane trauma. She's so damaged she's not entirely sure that the responsibilities she's taken on are real or imagined. Are the people who appear to want to help her, real or imagined, friend or foe?
Lay all that in a background of humour, cooking recipes, trance music, pop references, piercing (obviously), and you have a compelling tale.
I did want to take a stick to the voices in her head, but they're integral. Stay with it. I skimmed the recipes, but then I'm male :-)
I'm still thinking about the end. It's clearly book 1 (it says so after all), and it ends on a cliffhanger which is kinda telegraphed (I think). But more subtle than that is the way the climax of the book is structured, turning the standard heroic finale formula on its head. I'll probably still be thinking about it after I've read book 2.
Recommended for UF readers who want something different, or anyone with an interest of a portrayal of a damaged MC.
June 1, 2013
Who knows what true loneliness is - not the conventional word but the naked terror? To the lonely themselves it wears a mask. The most miserable outcast hugs some memory or some illusion.
Joseph Conrad
“All universal moral principles are idle fancies.”
Marquis de Sade
This isn't just a five-star review, ladies and gents. This is a full on, jumping up and down, screaming and squeeing and generally making an ass out of myself I am so excited about the book!
Where do I start? There is just so much HERE. . .
This is, in a way, as Mells describes it, an Urban Fantasy/Paranormal Romance, which is, as everyone knows by now, my favorite genre. However, that “title” doesn't even begin to delve into the wonder that is Mells writing.
To be honest, when I first started the book, I was hesitant after the first couple of pages. Maybe her particular sort of “crazy” was a little too close to home for me. Memory. Obsession. Horror and fear. All living inside her head, counting steps and tiles and pain pain pain. Then, I kept turning pages. And becoming more and more engrossed into a world which includes, as I said, the UF genre, but is so very very much more.
Pierce is just a very small child when we first meet her. The daughter of an addict, living in a hell of someone else's making, she is 'different' in some way she is not aware of. Different enough that her mother hands her books, and orders her to tell anyone she meets that she has Asperger's Syndrome.
“Never show anyone what you can do. Never. If you slip up and anyone questions you about it, you tell them you have Asperger's. Do you understand me?”
“Here are some books on the subject.”
Seemingly pretty strange for a child of six. But then, when that child can watch a foreign language movie and subsequently become fluent in said language with no training, that in itself is enough to worry that your child might become a pawn in someones perverted chess game. And that is only one of Pierce's strange and wonderful abilities.
The perversions that flow through this book, and in no way do I mean that in a bad way, are horrifying, painful and yet a loud cry from the depths of the human soul. The strength of the human soul, and its ability to survive what no one should ever know exists, much less be required to survive.
“You are strong, you are a fighter, he will not know this, and you will win. Men will always underestimate the supposed weaker sex, even if they suspect them to be dangerous.”
Mells takes the 'modern fairy tale' stories of UF and turns them on their heads, giving them a deeper and 'truer' view of the creatures of myth and legend. Pierced touches on the twists and turns of the mythological soul – and yet, her grasp on these creatures, no matter how perfect, is outshone by her ability to touch upon the true depth of depravity that the human soul is able to plumb.
Action, adventure, mystery, fantasy, suspense, it is all here. Wonderful and completely and with a raw brutality that sucks in the reader, keeping you on the edge of your seat and drawing you into a world so very like our own, and yet so very strange. The depths of mental illness (or something similar), the terror of living on the run, hallucinations and a really good recipe for steak and kidney pie. I know, weird, right? But so very, completely right.
I highly recommend you take a chance on Pierced. You are in for a book of depth and character I haven't seen since, well, I can't really remember off the top of my head. But take a pinch of Othello, throw in a heaping handful of Mildred Pierce and a big splash of Jack Kerouack. Serve with a blast of What It's Like by Everlast. Stir well and serve with a side of desperate hope. Just read it.
April 20, 2014
5/5 stars because I absolutely loved this book!
Pierce is as close to crazy as she can get, or so she thinks. Call her schizo or just plain crazy but there's definitely more to her story than what meets the eye. We get introduced to a world of vampires, werewolves, and what-is-even-happening-is-this-even-real coolness.
I was having trouble understanding the fantasy part of the book at first and this is not actually a bad thing. I took up Todorov's levels of fantasy in my Comparative Lit class so I was seeing the book in two levels of fantasy at first. The first is uncanny fantastic because of Pierce's schizo characteristics which made me question if her telepathy and the vampire compound were actually real or some figment of a hallucination. The second level (and this is where the interesting part is) is the marvelous fantastic where the world building of the vamps and weres comes in. (I'm not spoiling the last type of fantastic creatures in the novel just 'cause). It was a pleasant surprise to have read two levels of fantasy and figure out which one the novel is really operating on. (And again, I'm not spoiling this.)
I love how wonderfully different this novel is because we never actually get to have such a broken character yet one who is also head-strong in NA Fantasy novels nowadays. Pierce's character is refreshing because how many shizos who can bake up a storm and can move things with her mind do we have in bookverses? Pierce's struggle with her painful past make the story interesting especially when we are in the process of figuring out who Mia really is.
Another thing that I love about Pierced is how the author is so good at keeping secrets from the reader and the secrets are revealed at the proper time which basically is the cream on top of the story progression (one of these is the identity of Mia). I honestly did not think that I was walking into a vamp/were/fantasy book when I started reading. I was getting a bit antsy with the first four chapters because I was initially not used to reading the Pierces in the book but later on I got the hang of it.
The minor characters are also well-written especially Nap. I like the diversity the author put in the characters in her novel.
So now, let's talk about Bal/Lucas/Pink. We have a brooding hot guy who likes to wear tight-fitting shirts with ~~interesting~~ prints on them. I like his chemistry with Pierce and I like the tension that's going on between the two. I'm really excited to read on what happens to them in the next books!
Pierced was a pleasant surprise for me and I would definitely recommend it to anyone who's looking for a book that refutes the norms concerning some big shots in the fantasy realm or anyone who's looking for an action-packed read. Go get this book. It's awesome!!!
Pierce is as close to crazy as she can get, or so she thinks. Call her schizo or just plain crazy but there's definitely more to her story than what meets the eye. We get introduced to a world of vampires, werewolves, and what-is-even-happening-is-this-even-real coolness.
I was having trouble understanding the fantasy part of the book at first and this is not actually a bad thing. I took up Todorov's levels of fantasy in my Comparative Lit class so I was seeing the book in two levels of fantasy at first. The first is uncanny fantastic because of Pierce's schizo characteristics which made me question if her telepathy and the vampire compound were actually real or some figment of a hallucination. The second level (and this is where the interesting part is) is the marvelous fantastic where the world building of the vamps and weres comes in. (I'm not spoiling the last type of fantastic creatures in the novel just 'cause). It was a pleasant surprise to have read two levels of fantasy and figure out which one the novel is really operating on. (And again, I'm not spoiling this.)
I love how wonderfully different this novel is because we never actually get to have such a broken character yet one who is also head-strong in NA Fantasy novels nowadays. Pierce's character is refreshing because how many shizos who can bake up a storm and can move things with her mind do we have in bookverses? Pierce's struggle with her painful past make the story interesting especially when we are in the process of figuring out who Mia really is.
Another thing that I love about Pierced is how the author is so good at keeping secrets from the reader and the secrets are revealed at the proper time which basically is the cream on top of the story progression (one of these is the identity of Mia). I honestly did not think that I was walking into a vamp/were/fantasy book when I started reading. I was getting a bit antsy with the first four chapters because I was initially not used to reading the Pierces in the book but later on I got the hang of it.
The minor characters are also well-written especially Nap. I like the diversity the author put in the characters in her novel.
So now, let's talk about Bal/Lucas/Pink. We have a brooding hot guy who likes to wear tight-fitting shirts with ~~interesting~~ prints on them. I like his chemistry with Pierce and I like the tension that's going on between the two. I'm really excited to read on what happens to them in the next books!
Pierced was a pleasant surprise for me and I would definitely recommend it to anyone who's looking for a book that refutes the norms concerning some big shots in the fantasy realm or anyone who's looking for an action-packed read. Go get this book. It's awesome!!!
August 11, 2013
I was given this book free for an honest review, and I have to say this is an extremely interesting read. Interesting and bizarre. In a good way. It’s not like anything I’ve ever read.
One thing that struck me from the moment I started it was that this girl was different. It’s told from a first person perspective and so from the get go I was plunged into the inner workings of her complex mind. She sees things different to everyone else, she can remember everything in perfect detail and her recollections are like a word photograph, down to dust and how many tiles there were.
I love this much detail. I love being able to picture a scene or a person that vividly and author Mells writing allowed me a full on image from the head of her character.
Pierce is a girl on the run, young, scarred, suffering abilities that manifest to human understanding as a cocktail of mental illnesses, trying to leave the past in the past and survive it when it tries to snatch her up. This book is relentlessly gritty and too close to reality to be comfortable.
Despite the dark aspects of the storyline (most of it is pretty dark) there is humour and it is threaded through the shadows of the plot enough that the bad never feels overwhelming and, let’s face it, we’ve all had voices in our heads at some point. They just probably haven’t been as entertaining as the ones Pierce has.
The supernatural elements came across as more background noise to the character’s lives, rather than the major point. At times I would completely forget about it until something happened or the word ‘vampire’ would slip into a sentence.
I didn’t totally feel the romance in the book, Pierce is a bit too damaged and raw to entertain the notion of it, but she needs it. Needs something more than 10 year old Mia to get attached to.
This book wasn’t an easy read, it took me some time. I’d have to stop and absorb whatever I’d just read but it was worth it, even if I did get confused by the pie making recipe. I’m fairly sure I could make that dish from those pages alone :)
If you’re looking for something completely different, graphic, detailed, angst-ridden and tragic then this is for you!
http://booksandtheirsevendeadlysins.b...
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June 19, 2013I've never posted a DNF before, but I saw on Blkosiner's Book Blog, Brandi did a tasteful post about why she didn't necessarily like a book, but others did and felt like I could do something similar to it...so here goes.
Just because I DNF'd a book doesn't necessarily mean that the writing was bad or that someone else wouldn't enjoy it. I'd like to let everyone know why I stopped so that you can make your own mind up.
Pierced
This particular book I stopped at 63% through. In the beginning, I thought that I would really enjoy the character of Pierce. She remembers every single little detail of a memory, and it's very interesting. It started well, but quickly went into a slow-moving 'telling' session about who she is and why she is the way she is. I still easily worked through this part and felt it was probably necessary in the character building so I continued on with the story. When I made it to the action and meeting new characters about 30% of the way through, I was more excited because I felt like more would be coming, and I did get introduced to some unique new characters.
However, what really made me stop wasn't the writing or the characters, it was the subject matter. This was why the book wasn't for me. I don't want to get too spoilery so I will just say that a cursing 10 year-old, raw and tragic nightmares and flashbacks, frequent drug-use and mentions of sexual assault just hit a little too hard for me to continue with. This just wasn't a read for me. Plus, with all the mentions of food because she does really like to cook, and I'll be flat honest, I really don't - I had a hard time connecting with her on a positive level that I wanted to.
I do want to point out that on Goodreads currently there are 9 five-star reviews, 5 four-star reviews, and 1 three-star review for a total of a 4.53 rating right now. To have no reviews under 3 stars at the moment, and for me to be the only DNF is pretty significant. I don't have any personal friend reviews to share at the moment though.
If you have read it or know someone else that has, what are your thoughts on Pierced? If you haven't read it yet, do you think it will still be a book that you will enjoy?
Just because I DNF'd a book doesn't necessarily mean that the writing was bad or that someone else wouldn't enjoy it. I'd like to let everyone know why I stopped so that you can make your own mind up.
Pierced
This particular book I stopped at 63% through. In the beginning, I thought that I would really enjoy the character of Pierce. She remembers every single little detail of a memory, and it's very interesting. It started well, but quickly went into a slow-moving 'telling' session about who she is and why she is the way she is. I still easily worked through this part and felt it was probably necessary in the character building so I continued on with the story. When I made it to the action and meeting new characters about 30% of the way through, I was more excited because I felt like more would be coming, and I did get introduced to some unique new characters.
However, what really made me stop wasn't the writing or the characters, it was the subject matter. This was why the book wasn't for me. I don't want to get too spoilery so I will just say that a cursing 10 year-old, raw and tragic nightmares and flashbacks, frequent drug-use and mentions of sexual assault just hit a little too hard for me to continue with. This just wasn't a read for me. Plus, with all the mentions of food because she does really like to cook, and I'll be flat honest, I really don't - I had a hard time connecting with her on a positive level that I wanted to.
I do want to point out that on Goodreads currently there are 9 five-star reviews, 5 four-star reviews, and 1 three-star review for a total of a 4.53 rating right now. To have no reviews under 3 stars at the moment, and for me to be the only DNF is pretty significant. I don't have any personal friend reviews to share at the moment though.
If you have read it or know someone else that has, what are your thoughts on Pierced? If you haven't read it yet, do you think it will still be a book that you will enjoy?
February 14, 2015
I saw this book - kindle really - and the cover completely grabbed me right away. So I figured that this would be a really pleasant read.
Boy was I totally right!
I simply loved this story! This book did surprise me quite a bit, I really didn't think I would enjoy it as much as I did. Each of the characters were exceedingly lovable and such a joy to read and follow! Finally I got to read a book that I couldn't get enough of! So I'm probably going to gosh over this quite a bit.
I do have to admit that the beginning of the story did have me question whether I should continue with it. It was a little slow for me at first, but I know that it was necessary for the story and for us to understand the plot and the going on of it all. I'm glad I stuck with it, because as the progress continued I got so much more involved with the main character Pierce. This story is an urban fantasy, so there are vampires and wolves and sorcerers I believe. The author knew how to sprinkle it in a way that it wasn't forced or pushed in your face, the way it's written it's more towards it can be believable which is nice.
J.C. Mells - which I have never heard of until now - knows how to keep the reader engaged with well rounded characters and each of them are very important to it all. There isn't much of a romance which is really good, granted that there's a small hint of it in my opinion towards the end. The author mainly focuses on Pierce's tragic background and the obstacles that are part of her life. Pierce is a bit of a schizo. She has two voices/personalities in her head and she knows it and embraces it. Mildred and Veda - the voices in Pierce's head - were created by Pierce during her traumatic childhood as a form of copping with the whole situation. Those voices pop in to add hilarious commentary - and some bickering - helpful advice and guidance to Pierce.
I must say, sometimes it was a bit hard to keep track of who said what, but for the most time I understood the conversations between the ladies and Pierce.
Now to Pierce herself.
Pierce is pretty complicated young girl, with a very difficult and tragic past/childhood. She's - along with his daughter Mia - running away from Dorian a man that wan't to be a vampire. He's the one that pushed upon her all the dark and complicatedly tragic history.
I believe the author did a very good job with the writing, which was easy to follow and with the characters which were very well rounded and likable. I'm looking forward to the other books of the series, which they are already out, so I can't wait to be able to get them. I enjoyed the story very much! ^.^
Pierce is a strong girl. She stands up for herself and does anything and everything to keep herself - and Mia - on their feet. She kick ass too, which is nice. Pierce does tend to keep people at a distance, which is understandable giving her past, so she doesn't trust many either. It was really nice to see her evolved through out the story.
http://mezle.blogspot.com/
Boy was I totally right!
I simply loved this story! This book did surprise me quite a bit, I really didn't think I would enjoy it as much as I did. Each of the characters were exceedingly lovable and such a joy to read and follow! Finally I got to read a book that I couldn't get enough of! So I'm probably going to gosh over this quite a bit.
I do have to admit that the beginning of the story did have me question whether I should continue with it. It was a little slow for me at first, but I know that it was necessary for the story and for us to understand the plot and the going on of it all. I'm glad I stuck with it, because as the progress continued I got so much more involved with the main character Pierce. This story is an urban fantasy, so there are vampires and wolves and sorcerers I believe. The author knew how to sprinkle it in a way that it wasn't forced or pushed in your face, the way it's written it's more towards it can be believable which is nice.
J.C. Mells - which I have never heard of until now - knows how to keep the reader engaged with well rounded characters and each of them are very important to it all. There isn't much of a romance which is really good, granted that there's a small hint of it in my opinion towards the end. The author mainly focuses on Pierce's tragic background and the obstacles that are part of her life. Pierce is a bit of a schizo. She has two voices/personalities in her head and she knows it and embraces it. Mildred and Veda - the voices in Pierce's head - were created by Pierce during her traumatic childhood as a form of copping with the whole situation. Those voices pop in to add hilarious commentary - and some bickering - helpful advice and guidance to Pierce.
I must say, sometimes it was a bit hard to keep track of who said what, but for the most time I understood the conversations between the ladies and Pierce.
Now to Pierce herself.
Pierce is pretty complicated young girl, with a very difficult and tragic past/childhood. She's - along with his daughter Mia - running away from Dorian a man that wan't to be a vampire. He's the one that pushed upon her all the dark and complicatedly tragic history.
I believe the author did a very good job with the writing, which was easy to follow and with the characters which were very well rounded and likable. I'm looking forward to the other books of the series, which they are already out, so I can't wait to be able to get them. I enjoyed the story very much! ^.^
Pierce is a strong girl. She stands up for herself and does anything and everything to keep herself - and Mia - on their feet. She kick ass too, which is nice. Pierce does tend to keep people at a distance, which is understandable giving her past, so she doesn't trust many either. It was really nice to see her evolved through out the story.
http://mezle.blogspot.com/
July 17, 2013
I received an e-Book from the author in exchange for an honest review
There's more to Pierced than just being an up-and-coming Urban Fantasy series. In fact, even though the main characters have touches of the supernatural; the supernatural aspects aren't the main focus. With this first installment of the series, it's more about the characters humanity and how they cope and react when what they hold precious is threatened. The supernatural aspects are subtly woven into the story and like Pierce, we're not really sure if they are real or imagined.
Pierced isn't going to be a read for everyone. Pierce endures horrific child abuse, and while she is now twenty-one we do experience portions of it in the form of nightmares. The abuse has left major emotional, mental and physical scars on Pierce, and I applaud Mells with how she portrays the psychological effects this has on her and the methods that Pierce used/uses to cope with it.
There's plenty of action throughout the story and both Pierce and 10-year old Mia prove to be excellent fighters. They even have the good sense to know that there are times when you should just run as well as times to stand and fight. Tensions are broken up with wry humor, usually from the characters (the other Pierces: Mildred and Veda) living in our Pierce's head.
Mells also does a wonderful job with her world-building. We get a full understanding of the supernatural and human aspects of the world and some of the history of what Pierce has had to go through in her short life. There were a couple of time-frame issues, but nothing that was overly jarring or pulled me out of the story. All the characters are very well written and play intricate roles to the story. I'm looking forward to seeing how they grow and develop over the series.
Pierced is labeled UF/PNR, but there isn't any romance going on in this installment. Pierce is still too shattered to even consider it. But there are hints and potential attractions that in later books could (and hopefully will) bloom into a HEA for Pierce.
Also, fair warning...the story ends with a cliff-hanger and it's a doozy (made me want to scream!), so hopefully we won't have to wait to long to find out what happens in book 2, Pinked.
There's more to Pierced than just being an up-and-coming Urban Fantasy series. In fact, even though the main characters have touches of the supernatural; the supernatural aspects aren't the main focus. With this first installment of the series, it's more about the characters humanity and how they cope and react when what they hold precious is threatened. The supernatural aspects are subtly woven into the story and like Pierce, we're not really sure if they are real or imagined.
Pierced isn't going to be a read for everyone. Pierce endures horrific child abuse, and while she is now twenty-one we do experience portions of it in the form of nightmares. The abuse has left major emotional, mental and physical scars on Pierce, and I applaud Mells with how she portrays the psychological effects this has on her and the methods that Pierce used/uses to cope with it.
There's plenty of action throughout the story and both Pierce and 10-year old Mia prove to be excellent fighters. They even have the good sense to know that there are times when you should just run as well as times to stand and fight. Tensions are broken up with wry humor, usually from the characters (the other Pierces: Mildred and Veda) living in our Pierce's head.
Mells also does a wonderful job with her world-building. We get a full understanding of the supernatural and human aspects of the world and some of the history of what Pierce has had to go through in her short life. There were a couple of time-frame issues, but nothing that was overly jarring or pulled me out of the story. All the characters are very well written and play intricate roles to the story. I'm looking forward to seeing how they grow and develop over the series.
Pierced is labeled UF/PNR, but there isn't any romance going on in this installment. Pierce is still too shattered to even consider it. But there are hints and potential attractions that in later books could (and hopefully will) bloom into a HEA for Pierce.
Also, fair warning...the story ends with a cliff-hanger and it's a doozy (made me want to scream!), so hopefully we won't have to wait to long to find out what happens in book 2, Pinked.
August 25, 2013
A RIVITING READ
Looking for something different and unique? Pierced is surely that…and more. It’s not really paranormal romance, although you can see something slowly building for the sequel. To tell the truth, I didn’t miss it. There are vamps and werewolves in the periphery, but they don’t as yet figure highly in the plot. This is the story of a tough-as-nails young woman trying to keep a step ahead of the predator who relentlessly pursues her. I was a little unsure in the beginning, as it took a few chapters to hook me. I don’t mind a little back story if it leads to a good plot with twists and turns—and this did. It was great to read something that wasn’t just the same old story.
As a young child, Pierce is abandoned at a vampire compound by her drug-addict mother. Held as prisoner by the scariest of predators, she’s repeatedly sexually and physically abused from the tender age of eleven. She spends her days alone in the “white” room. He visits at night. Although this is enough to push anyone over the edge—and it does—Pierce survives by compartmentalizing the abuse and creating internal references…voices in her head to help her cope. These internal companions provide her only comfort and also an entertaining element that makes this book unique. At one point, she’s brought a real companion, a girl significantly younger. She forms a bond with this child, Mia. Determined to save Mia from becoming the predator’s next victim, Pierce escapes with her with the help of someone at the compound. The story is basically their struggle to survive and evade capture. It’s also the story of Pierce's battle to understand and accept herself…and that’s the best part of the book.
I loved the story. I loved the characters. And I especially loved the witty banter between Pierce and the voices in her head. Mells does a great job with that. There are romantic and paranormal elements that you can see coming for the sequel. Although this story deals with a heavy subject, it does so tastefully and without some of the overwhelming heaviness you often see elsewhere. I would say that it is a story more for older teens and adults than young teens. But if you’re ready for something different, give this book a chance. I’m glad I did.
Looking for something different and unique? Pierced is surely that…and more. It’s not really paranormal romance, although you can see something slowly building for the sequel. To tell the truth, I didn’t miss it. There are vamps and werewolves in the periphery, but they don’t as yet figure highly in the plot. This is the story of a tough-as-nails young woman trying to keep a step ahead of the predator who relentlessly pursues her. I was a little unsure in the beginning, as it took a few chapters to hook me. I don’t mind a little back story if it leads to a good plot with twists and turns—and this did. It was great to read something that wasn’t just the same old story.
As a young child, Pierce is abandoned at a vampire compound by her drug-addict mother. Held as prisoner by the scariest of predators, she’s repeatedly sexually and physically abused from the tender age of eleven. She spends her days alone in the “white” room. He visits at night. Although this is enough to push anyone over the edge—and it does—Pierce survives by compartmentalizing the abuse and creating internal references…voices in her head to help her cope. These internal companions provide her only comfort and also an entertaining element that makes this book unique. At one point, she’s brought a real companion, a girl significantly younger. She forms a bond with this child, Mia. Determined to save Mia from becoming the predator’s next victim, Pierce escapes with her with the help of someone at the compound. The story is basically their struggle to survive and evade capture. It’s also the story of Pierce's battle to understand and accept herself…and that’s the best part of the book.
I loved the story. I loved the characters. And I especially loved the witty banter between Pierce and the voices in her head. Mells does a great job with that. There are romantic and paranormal elements that you can see coming for the sequel. Although this story deals with a heavy subject, it does so tastefully and without some of the overwhelming heaviness you often see elsewhere. I would say that it is a story more for older teens and adults than young teens. But if you’re ready for something different, give this book a chance. I’m glad I did.
August 16, 2013
I finished this book two days ago, and I cannot get it out of my head. It is mind blowing and simply one of the best things I’ve read this year. The characters are amazing. Pierce is a character that I haven’t encountered in all of the books I’ve read. Her compulsions and her delusions are as much characters as the rest of the cast of this story. The book itself is labeled Urban Fantasy and Paranormal Romance, and it is indeed urban fantasy. There’s not a lot of romance (thus far) and I’m glad there isn’t. Pierce’s background and her current character– to force a love interest at her would cheapen the story. There are hints, subtle ones and with time I can see something developing with the character Pierce is starting to show a glimmer of interest in. But for now? I’m really liking the way this story is in terms of ‘romance.’
The story is fast paced, without being rushed. Pierce’s paranoia and constant vigilance adds to this aspect of the story. It’s extremely well written, with a complex plot, full of twists and turns and a couple of massive bombshells that I didn’t see coming until the end. This book is fantastic. I cannot express this enough. It’s also really hard to talk about without spoiling anything, and I’m trying really hard not to just type over and over “go buy and read this book”.
On that subject while I want everyone to read this book, it’s not for everyone. There’s violence, explicit drug use, offensive language, child abuse– and while they’re there and out for the reader to see and the other characters to interpret and experience they don’t take away from the story. Pierce is heavily flawed, and has many issues, none of which she uses as a crutch. She’s a strong, well written character and one that will stick with me for a very long time.
There’s a novella to this series, and there’s a second book listed on amazon, which I’m incredibly grateful for because the book ended in a cliffhanger, and I am craving the second part of this series. I loved this book and I know a couple of people that need to read it right now.
The story is fast paced, without being rushed. Pierce’s paranoia and constant vigilance adds to this aspect of the story. It’s extremely well written, with a complex plot, full of twists and turns and a couple of massive bombshells that I didn’t see coming until the end. This book is fantastic. I cannot express this enough. It’s also really hard to talk about without spoiling anything, and I’m trying really hard not to just type over and over “go buy and read this book”.
On that subject while I want everyone to read this book, it’s not for everyone. There’s violence, explicit drug use, offensive language, child abuse– and while they’re there and out for the reader to see and the other characters to interpret and experience they don’t take away from the story. Pierce is heavily flawed, and has many issues, none of which she uses as a crutch. She’s a strong, well written character and one that will stick with me for a very long time.
There’s a novella to this series, and there’s a second book listed on amazon, which I’m incredibly grateful for because the book ended in a cliffhanger, and I am craving the second part of this series. I loved this book and I know a couple of people that need to read it right now.
May 12, 2016
What I liked about this book
The main character - Pierce is smart, funny, and my kind of girl. She is also a drug addict and has Mildred and Veda Pierce living in her head. Her voice is unique, I think, and Mells writes her with verve. It takes guts to write a character like Pierce, and Mells pulls it off brilliantly. If you're sick of tall, beautiful women with no social skills and an inability to manage even the simplest household task, then look no further than Pierce. She has multiple facial piercings, and she can cook. I don't know whether Mells cooks, or just likes to eat, or is just that good a writer - but Pierce's love of cooking really comes through.
The world - urban fantasy, as a genre, can get pretty repetitive. Mells obviously thinks so too, and has done something about it, because her vampires are not the gorgeous, all-powerful predators of most urban fantasy (and they don't sparkle) - they're more like parasites. There are other differences too, which make it clear that Mells has engaged imagination, rather than just treading the same road as every other author.
The idea - I won't say anything more about it, but I liked it.
What lost those two stars
This had the potential to be a five-star book. However:
Pacing - not that the pace was slow, but there was too much instant revelation right at the end. It would have been better to have had Pierce discover things more slowly.
Editing - the writing was sometimes rather clunky.
Typos - not many, but enough to be slightly distracting.
Honestly, I wanted to give this five stars, but when measured up against authors like Jim Butcher and Faith Hunter, that just wouldn't be honest. But J. C. Mells is one to watch: I think she has the potential to reach the heights, and this is a book I would be happy to recommend.
The main character - Pierce is smart, funny, and my kind of girl. She is also a drug addict and has Mildred and Veda Pierce living in her head. Her voice is unique, I think, and Mells writes her with verve. It takes guts to write a character like Pierce, and Mells pulls it off brilliantly. If you're sick of tall, beautiful women with no social skills and an inability to manage even the simplest household task, then look no further than Pierce. She has multiple facial piercings, and she can cook. I don't know whether Mells cooks, or just likes to eat, or is just that good a writer - but Pierce's love of cooking really comes through.
The world - urban fantasy, as a genre, can get pretty repetitive. Mells obviously thinks so too, and has done something about it, because her vampires are not the gorgeous, all-powerful predators of most urban fantasy (and they don't sparkle) - they're more like parasites. There are other differences too, which make it clear that Mells has engaged imagination, rather than just treading the same road as every other author.
The idea - I won't say anything more about it, but I liked it.
What lost those two stars
This had the potential to be a five-star book. However:
Pacing - not that the pace was slow, but there was too much instant revelation right at the end. It would have been better to have had Pierce discover things more slowly.
Editing - the writing was sometimes rather clunky.
Typos - not many, but enough to be slightly distracting.
Honestly, I wanted to give this five stars, but when measured up against authors like Jim Butcher and Faith Hunter, that just wouldn't be honest. But J. C. Mells is one to watch: I think she has the potential to reach the heights, and this is a book I would be happy to recommend.
June 21, 2013
Let me introduce you to Pierce, the main character, who lives in her head most of the time talking to herself and her compadres.
You have the interaction of three individuals in the head of one. Mildred and Veda represent parts of her personality. Split personality without the extra personas being part of her exterior.
Now that might sound complex if it weren't for the fact the author has made the three into a stand-up comedy team. They shoot jibes and quips at each other from various locations in her mind. It is a really well thought out storyline combined with the traumatic coping mechanisms of an abused individual.
Add some strange supernatural powers to that mix and the affinity for food creation, which again is her way of coping, and you have one very memorable main character.
The topic of abuse is handled in very realistic manner. The author has obviously done her research and it is a main key to the events that unfold. There is no use of gratuitous details just the cold bare facts of it.
To temper the rough waters the author has added some eye-candy (book-candy) and a flurry of excentric, dominant and entertaining characters. They manage to keep the story from sliding into the painful darkness of memories.
The last chapter ends the book with an exciting twist and the promise of a sequel.
One that I most certainly will want to read.
I received a free copy of this book for my review.
You have the interaction of three individuals in the head of one. Mildred and Veda represent parts of her personality. Split personality without the extra personas being part of her exterior.
Now that might sound complex if it weren't for the fact the author has made the three into a stand-up comedy team. They shoot jibes and quips at each other from various locations in her mind. It is a really well thought out storyline combined with the traumatic coping mechanisms of an abused individual.
Add some strange supernatural powers to that mix and the affinity for food creation, which again is her way of coping, and you have one very memorable main character.
The topic of abuse is handled in very realistic manner. The author has obviously done her research and it is a main key to the events that unfold. There is no use of gratuitous details just the cold bare facts of it.
To temper the rough waters the author has added some eye-candy (book-candy) and a flurry of excentric, dominant and entertaining characters. They manage to keep the story from sliding into the painful darkness of memories.
The last chapter ends the book with an exciting twist and the promise of a sequel.
One that I most certainly will want to read.
I received a free copy of this book for my review.
August 12, 2013
I got this book from the author, free of cost, in exchange of an honest review!
Thanks J.C Mells for giving me this wonderful opportunity to review your hard work and let me tell ya all, the time I spent on this book was worth it! Every single page brought new excitement and the horror and dark scenes will really give you goosebumps.
The writing style was awesome and I really got attached to the story that sometimes I really felt that I'm Pierce for myself and let me tell you that was really spooky as I thought that the voices that nagged her head were now chasing me!
I really loved Pierce, I mean who wouldn't? Most of the books portray the female characters as weak and dependable but 'oh-my-god' the main character of this story, Pierce is a really kick-ass heroine (sorry for the language but I think it will fit her the best), if you guys love a daring, confident and totally independent heroine then I would say 'go for this book!'.
Well, I'm not adding any spoilers because they do spoil your read but I would assure you that you can definitely spent your money and time on this!
The story line was unique, not like any regular vampire story and I truly heart all the characters, they're just fab!
Thanks J.C Mells for giving me this wonderful opportunity to review your hard work and let me tell ya all, the time I spent on this book was worth it! Every single page brought new excitement and the horror and dark scenes will really give you goosebumps.
The writing style was awesome and I really got attached to the story that sometimes I really felt that I'm Pierce for myself and let me tell you that was really spooky as I thought that the voices that nagged her head were now chasing me!
I really loved Pierce, I mean who wouldn't? Most of the books portray the female characters as weak and dependable but 'oh-my-god' the main character of this story, Pierce is a really kick-ass heroine (sorry for the language but I think it will fit her the best), if you guys love a daring, confident and totally independent heroine then I would say 'go for this book!'.
Well, I'm not adding any spoilers because they do spoil your read but I would assure you that you can definitely spent your money and time on this!
The story line was unique, not like any regular vampire story and I truly heart all the characters, they're just fab!
May 28, 2013
This book was a great read. It started out a little slow, but soon kicked in and had me not wanting to put it down. I loved it for the following reasons:
1. I'm a huge urban fantasy fan. I do like paranormal romance, but I grow tired of the typical beautiful vamp, gorgeous werewolf meets human or other vamp/werewolf or another species, boy meets girl, sex, sex, damsel in distress stories. I gave up on L.K. Hamilton and others like that a long time ago, you know?
This book is urban fantasy. I can see romance as a part of it, but not the main focus. I like that very much.
2. The main character is flawed, amazing, tragic, likeable and real. The supporting characters are fascinating as well.
3. The story is very unique and I'm more than looking forward to see it develop further.
I'm a very picky reader and read voraciously. There were a couple of times in the book where I felt there was too much detailed description, but it didn't take away from the story or make me want to stop reading.
As a reader, I have a problem with cliffhanger endings. I'm just impatient. LOL The next book better be out soon!
1. I'm a huge urban fantasy fan. I do like paranormal romance, but I grow tired of the typical beautiful vamp, gorgeous werewolf meets human or other vamp/werewolf or another species, boy meets girl, sex, sex, damsel in distress stories. I gave up on L.K. Hamilton and others like that a long time ago, you know?
This book is urban fantasy. I can see romance as a part of it, but not the main focus. I like that very much.
2. The main character is flawed, amazing, tragic, likeable and real. The supporting characters are fascinating as well.
3. The story is very unique and I'm more than looking forward to see it develop further.
I'm a very picky reader and read voraciously. There were a couple of times in the book where I felt there was too much detailed description, but it didn't take away from the story or make me want to stop reading.
As a reader, I have a problem with cliffhanger endings. I'm just impatient. LOL The next book better be out soon!
April 20, 2016
So I never do this ... but I'm going to dedicate a song to this book. Rhianna's "Where Have You Been"
Because, seriously, Pierced by J.C. Mells, where have you been all my life?
What I liked:
Grittier than I normally prefer my urban fantasy, Pierced is the story of a deeply troubled girl who suffered serious mental, physical, and sexual abuse and is now on the run from her tormentor with his ten year old daughter in tow. Because Pierce is more than a little crazy, you never know what's real. Not fully. This allows J.C. Mells to tell the story in a disjointed way that might normally drive me bonkers, but totally works for this story.
And leaves me craving more.
CRAVING it.
Is the next one out yet? (yes it is ... and purchased)
What I didn't love:
There were a few points where I noticed errors that ... well I noticed. And half the time I don't notice errors. Not enough to make me any less rabid for the next book. Just enough to try and worm my way in as a beta reader though.
http://youtu.be/HBxt_v0WF6Y
Because, seriously, Pierced by J.C. Mells, where have you been all my life?
What I liked:
Grittier than I normally prefer my urban fantasy, Pierced is the story of a deeply troubled girl who suffered serious mental, physical, and sexual abuse and is now on the run from her tormentor with his ten year old daughter in tow. Because Pierce is more than a little crazy, you never know what's real. Not fully. This allows J.C. Mells to tell the story in a disjointed way that might normally drive me bonkers, but totally works for this story.
And leaves me craving more.
CRAVING it.
Is the next one out yet? (yes it is ... and purchased)
What I didn't love:
There were a few points where I noticed errors that ... well I noticed. And half the time I don't notice errors. Not enough to make me any less rabid for the next book. Just enough to try and worm my way in as a beta reader though.
http://youtu.be/HBxt_v0WF6Y
November 9, 2014
I loved this book! Amazing fresh ideas and great characters with non-stop action and exciting plot twist and turns throughout. I read this book in a day and quickly started book 2 'Escaped'.
I felt so involved with the story that was unfolding, I devoured and speed read the pages and have ordered books 3 & 4 today!
This is a fantastic read, and will definitely be my new book club recommendation. There are so many layers and depths to each character, and a thrilling plot line to discuss and debate.
I felt so involved with the story that was unfolding, I devoured and speed read the pages and have ordered books 3 & 4 today!
This is a fantastic read, and will definitely be my new book club recommendation. There are so many layers and depths to each character, and a thrilling plot line to discuss and debate.
July 31, 2013
This book was a very good read. It was well written,well thought out and held my attention .
It was very graphic as to what led up to the reasoning for the story line and well as why the hero's did the things they did.
It has a very good story line and has a twist I never saw coming. I usually can solve a mystery half thru any book but just did not see this one coming.
I highly recommend this as a good read. And I hope I get to read the next book in the series !
It was very graphic as to what led up to the reasoning for the story line and well as why the hero's did the things they did.
It has a very good story line and has a twist I never saw coming. I usually can solve a mystery half thru any book but just did not see this one coming.
I highly recommend this as a good read. And I hope I get to read the next book in the series !
May 11, 2020
“Hey, being a schizo is only a disease when it prevents you from performing day-to-day functions. I'm functioning quite well, in my honest opinion. Or rather in our honest opinions that is. “
“that no one will truly understand why I feel the need to make my outer freak appear greater than my inner one.”
“-it’s a hit guaranteed to separate my opponent from his consciousness.” ^v^
“A world in which sanity is checked at the door. Only sometimes you lose your reclaim ticket when it comes time to leave. “ (I didn’t fully grasp this quote, so if anyone can explain…)
“I hold my breath and inner Mildred does a one woman version of a marching band, while inner Veda tries to look cool by attempting to spark up a cigarillo with a plastic orange lighter that refuses to ignite.”
An example of the unique reading of the situation with the happenings going on in the characters head at the same time. And it fits
“If the age-old proverb of “the eye is the mirror of the soul,” is correct, then his soul is clearly stating “stop fucking looking at me.”” LOL (The Love interest.)
“He’s a firm believer in the economy of words, as Jake always says.” (A characteristic of what the Love interest is like- tough silent Badass)
“She thankfully also doesn’t mention my paranoia over dying due to a gas leak I’d not be able to smell. Solution: Make sure there’s always a window open.” Smart
“Mildred’s retort suggests I'm not as smart as I imagine I am if I don’t rethink the whole run thing. I point out that I never “imagine” myself to be smart. I know I'm smart. I just “imagine” her. Oh and Veda too. Veda waves at us from the mind-couch. Mildred goes off into the mind-kitchen in a huff and slams the door muttering something about imagine this! I sit silent for a minute while all three of them stare at me.” Haha
“I know I should apologize for the freak show comment, but you did that to your face deliberately and with purpose. I suspect you want to be ostracized for some reason. An apology now would be both insincere and insulting – to both of us.” He’s absolutely right, of course. If his comment irks me I’ve no one to blame but myself. I begrudgingly respect him for his refusal to compromise. There’s nothing more insulting than a fake apology. I give him a small nod and he finishes by locking his gaze to mine.”
This is not only something that sheds light on human behavior it also is great character interactions that draws you in
When I hunt for a book to read I want to make sure I’m not wasting my free time on something I’m not at least 60% sure I’ll like(I prefer 90%). So I look for spoilers or quotes that give me a feel for the book. Since the Author deeply desires that we not do that (even though I think it would draw more people in but I can see the hidden joy of not knowing the spoilers for these books so I’ll oblige). That leaves me with quotes that I know Hunters will scroll reviews for this like I do. And here at the bottom I will say what this book is like. (I don’t think the quotes where spoilers but someone let me know if they are and I’ll try and fix it.)
Generally I stir away from books with characters with this kind of mental state bc its too close to real life. BUT this kinda was and kinda wasn’t. I’ll tell you straight- it was fun reading the crazy going on in her head. It surprises you. It’s a new kind of book reading style and that’s after reading too many books so that’s saying something (I haven’t the patience to list all the books I’ve read on my account). I read maybe 2-3 a week.
This book was and is refreshing bc the writer created a reading like nobody else I’ve read before and I am shocked it’s not as popular and well known as it should be.
The relationship: Makes you believe it-SUPER RARE and delicious Angst/ Sass
The story feeling: Refreshing and keeps your attention with excitement, suspense, laughter, fight,
surprise, sass and other deep feels
The story: a sort of newish paranormal world. It’s given to you at the appropriate times and woven into the story well. The whole story is weaved and sewn pretty well.
The Pace: Fast. You have to know what happens next feeling that begins after chapter 2. Start it on the weekend
Side characters: Not just fluff. Well written
A drawback for me was the dark secret past. A little too dark for me but the writer made up for it in the enjoyment of reading the whole book.
If you’re looking for a book that will make you happy and excited and totally enjoy in reading then behold- here it is.
I hope you write a review and tell your friends bc I would of liked to have known about this book sooner and am distraught by the thought of “What if I never had discovered it?”
Due to the writer surprising me with a epic tale and the fact that her book is not known- I am here now writing my first review on a book bc in reality I just care about finding another book to read and not wasting time writing a review. And I also didn’t know reviews were writer’s bread and butter. Yeah I know- how can I be such a over reader if I don’t know that? Well I’m selfish and absorbed in only reading, reading and reading. I didn't think reviews were needed after others gave it except for what the writer wrote at the end-While reading the book
Yes the whole thing is in bold but I've already spent 2 hrs on this- I'll watch a youtube tutorial on how to format this later
“that no one will truly understand why I feel the need to make my outer freak appear greater than my inner one.”
“-it’s a hit guaranteed to separate my opponent from his consciousness.” ^v^
“A world in which sanity is checked at the door. Only sometimes you lose your reclaim ticket when it comes time to leave. “ (I didn’t fully grasp this quote, so if anyone can explain…)
“I hold my breath and inner Mildred does a one woman version of a marching band, while inner Veda tries to look cool by attempting to spark up a cigarillo with a plastic orange lighter that refuses to ignite.”
An example of the unique reading of the situation with the happenings going on in the characters head at the same time. And it fits
“If the age-old proverb of “the eye is the mirror of the soul,” is correct, then his soul is clearly stating “stop fucking looking at me.”” LOL (The Love interest.)
“He’s a firm believer in the economy of words, as Jake always says.” (A characteristic of what the Love interest is like- tough silent Badass)
“She thankfully also doesn’t mention my paranoia over dying due to a gas leak I’d not be able to smell. Solution: Make sure there’s always a window open.” Smart
“Mildred’s retort suggests I'm not as smart as I imagine I am if I don’t rethink the whole run thing. I point out that I never “imagine” myself to be smart. I know I'm smart. I just “imagine” her. Oh and Veda too. Veda waves at us from the mind-couch. Mildred goes off into the mind-kitchen in a huff and slams the door muttering something about imagine this! I sit silent for a minute while all three of them stare at me.” Haha
“I know I should apologize for the freak show comment, but you did that to your face deliberately and with purpose. I suspect you want to be ostracized for some reason. An apology now would be both insincere and insulting – to both of us.” He’s absolutely right, of course. If his comment irks me I’ve no one to blame but myself. I begrudgingly respect him for his refusal to compromise. There’s nothing more insulting than a fake apology. I give him a small nod and he finishes by locking his gaze to mine.”
This is not only something that sheds light on human behavior it also is great character interactions that draws you in
When I hunt for a book to read I want to make sure I’m not wasting my free time on something I’m not at least 60% sure I’ll like(I prefer 90%). So I look for spoilers or quotes that give me a feel for the book. Since the Author deeply desires that we not do that (even though I think it would draw more people in but I can see the hidden joy of not knowing the spoilers for these books so I’ll oblige). That leaves me with quotes that I know Hunters will scroll reviews for this like I do. And here at the bottom I will say what this book is like. (I don’t think the quotes where spoilers but someone let me know if they are and I’ll try and fix it.)
Generally I stir away from books with characters with this kind of mental state bc its too close to real life. BUT this kinda was and kinda wasn’t. I’ll tell you straight- it was fun reading the crazy going on in her head. It surprises you. It’s a new kind of book reading style and that’s after reading too many books so that’s saying something (I haven’t the patience to list all the books I’ve read on my account). I read maybe 2-3 a week.
This book was and is refreshing bc the writer created a reading like nobody else I’ve read before and I am shocked it’s not as popular and well known as it should be.
The relationship: Makes you believe it-SUPER RARE and delicious Angst/ Sass
The story feeling: Refreshing and keeps your attention with excitement, suspense, laughter, fight,
surprise, sass and other deep feels
The story: a sort of newish paranormal world. It’s given to you at the appropriate times and woven into the story well. The whole story is weaved and sewn pretty well.
The Pace: Fast. You have to know what happens next feeling that begins after chapter 2. Start it on the weekend
Side characters: Not just fluff. Well written
A drawback for me was the dark secret past. A little too dark for me but the writer made up for it in the enjoyment of reading the whole book.
If you’re looking for a book that will make you happy and excited and totally enjoy in reading then behold- here it is.
I hope you write a review and tell your friends bc I would of liked to have known about this book sooner and am distraught by the thought of “What if I never had discovered it?”
Due to the writer surprising me with a epic tale and the fact that her book is not known- I am here now writing my first review on a book bc in reality I just care about finding another book to read and not wasting time writing a review. And I also didn’t know reviews were writer’s bread and butter. Yeah I know- how can I be such a over reader if I don’t know that? Well I’m selfish and absorbed in only reading, reading and reading. I didn't think reviews were needed after others gave it except for what the writer wrote at the end-While reading the book
Yes the whole thing is in bold but I've already spent 2 hrs on this- I'll watch a youtube tutorial on how to format this later
June 16, 2013
This is the Girl with the Dragon Tattoo meets Betty Crocker.
I am not a fan of this genre urban fantasy, but loved this book. Help and Indie (independent) author out and buy this first book in a series. I am starting ESCAPED today!
I am not a fan of this genre urban fantasy, but loved this book. Help and Indie (independent) author out and buy this first book in a series. I am starting ESCAPED today!
March 12, 2014
This is not a romance but it has potential for romance. Don't let that stop you from reading it. A good mix of action, drama, and angst. All the characters are well developed. No Mary Sues here. Try it. You'll like it.
April 28, 2014
This book was a little slow starting. You have to GET that she has multiple personalities. Once it got going, I WAS HOOKED! I have already started reading book #2. Love the complex nature of everyone involved.
June 28, 2015
Seriously awesome. Pierce is such a mess at the start, addicted to drugs, kind of crazy, and on the run. From there, the excitement just keeps building, making the story just come alive. Two words, pure joy!
January 15, 2015
Out-freakin'-standing! Go on...read the rest of the books in the series. I'm already on No. 3!
Man, Pierced and Escaped were awesome. Can't wait to see what happens next!
Man, Pierced and Escaped were awesome. Can't wait to see what happens next!
August 16, 2017
Hmm......What a strangely enjoyable book. The very end had me flicking backwards and forwards as I tried to work out what she was seeing. Having started the second book which is a novella I still don't know!!
You have to keep a very firm grasp of what you are reading as Pierce spends quite a bit of her time hallucinating and hiding in her head having convos with imaginary people (Mildred who resides in the kitchen and is the voice of reason and Vida who is the sassy kick @ss one who makes snap decisions that usually end up going badly). All are based on movie characters from the 1950's. I confess to snorting with laughter a few times.
So where to start....... Pierce and her druggie mother end up in a vampire compound - no romance, no sparkling chests but a controlling man named Dorian. Mummy dearest with a bag of pills in her sticky hand vanishes a few weeks later leaving her daughter behind. She works in the kitchen (a housie), does not donate blood to the vampires (a pab) until her 8th birthday when she is removed to Dorian's house where she is locked for the next 10 years in the white attic room. It is here that she is left to the mercy of a paedophile named Dorian.
It is during this period of her life that the voices and characters in her head appear, Dorian keeps her dosed to the gills with drugs, he believes her to have Asperger's and some OCD tendencies but it is more than this. Her mother told her to keep any "other" things she can do a secret, to never tell.. especially Dorian.
Oscar is Dorian's right hand man, Oscar has terminal cancer and only survived because of his daily ingestion of vampire blood. He sees a mark appear on Pierce's back and knows he must get her and Mia out of the compound, especially as Mia's little body has caught Dorian's eye.
For two years they run and hide, but during this time Oscar dies, Mia blames Pierce but they keep with the programme of hiding in plain sight and having well rehearsed exit strategies. Helped along the way by Reyes who is a trusted friend left to them by Oscar.
Meanwhile Dorian is still searching and the girls are found by Mr Pink and Mr Cowboy, the latter comes to the conclusion that he has been lied to as to why these girls are wanted, this is not some disgruntled ex-employee. Until he has a clearer view Mr Cowboy aka Jake sends them with Mr Pink to the town of Nowhere on the outskirts of Vegas. The surly Mr Pink aka Lucas Balak and his nephew have their own secrets
Lucas introduces Pierce to a local sorcerer who he feels could better understand her as he exhibits similar symptoms to her He explains to her about night walking in her nightmares and other things she exhibits - until they reach a point when she asks about night walking during the day and they realise she has told Dorian where they are. Now it is a mad rush to get back to Nowhere.............
You have to keep a very firm grasp of what you are reading as Pierce spends quite a bit of her time hallucinating and hiding in her head having convos with imaginary people (Mildred who resides in the kitchen and is the voice of reason and Vida who is the sassy kick @ss one who makes snap decisions that usually end up going badly). All are based on movie characters from the 1950's. I confess to snorting with laughter a few times.
So where to start....... Pierce and her druggie mother end up in a vampire compound - no romance, no sparkling chests but a controlling man named Dorian. Mummy dearest with a bag of pills in her sticky hand vanishes a few weeks later leaving her daughter behind. She works in the kitchen (a housie), does not donate blood to the vampires (a pab) until her 8th birthday when she is removed to Dorian's house where she is locked for the next 10 years in the white attic room. It is here that she is left to the mercy of a paedophile named Dorian.
It is during this period of her life that the voices and characters in her head appear, Dorian keeps her dosed to the gills with drugs, he believes her to have Asperger's and some OCD tendencies but it is more than this. Her mother told her to keep any "other" things she can do a secret, to never tell.. especially Dorian.
Oscar is Dorian's right hand man, Oscar has terminal cancer and only survived because of his daily ingestion of vampire blood. He sees a mark appear on Pierce's back and knows he must get her and Mia out of the compound, especially as Mia's little body has caught Dorian's eye.
For two years they run and hide, but during this time Oscar dies, Mia blames Pierce but they keep with the programme of hiding in plain sight and having well rehearsed exit strategies. Helped along the way by Reyes who is a trusted friend left to them by Oscar.
Meanwhile Dorian is still searching and the girls are found by Mr Pink and Mr Cowboy, the latter comes to the conclusion that he has been lied to as to why these girls are wanted, this is not some disgruntled ex-employee. Until he has a clearer view Mr Cowboy aka Jake sends them with Mr Pink to the town of Nowhere on the outskirts of Vegas. The surly Mr Pink aka Lucas Balak and his nephew have their own secrets
Lucas introduces Pierce to a local sorcerer who he feels could better understand her as he exhibits similar symptoms to her He explains to her about night walking in her nightmares and other things she exhibits - until they reach a point when she asks about night walking during the day and they realise she has told Dorian where they are. Now it is a mad rush to get back to Nowhere.............
December 2, 2019
I'm completely pierced
This story has an interesting take on vampires, werewolves, and sorcerers. I like Pierce and her Pierce girls I her head. She makes you think about the sanity of any one that seems off their rocker. I like Pink, aka Lucas, and can't wait to see what the future holds for the two of them. I wonder what will happen to Mia once she realizes that Pierce is her mother? This book leaves you hanging I. He most precarious way and you just want to pick up the next one. I will be back to read the next chapter but for now I will leave Nowhere, NV and find me another journey to take.
This story has an interesting take on vampires, werewolves, and sorcerers. I like Pierce and her Pierce girls I her head. She makes you think about the sanity of any one that seems off their rocker. I like Pink, aka Lucas, and can't wait to see what the future holds for the two of them. I wonder what will happen to Mia once she realizes that Pierce is her mother? This book leaves you hanging I. He most precarious way and you just want to pick up the next one. I will be back to read the next chapter but for now I will leave Nowhere, NV and find me another journey to take.
October 12, 2017
I really did not think I was going to like this book as the first couple of chapters are not very inviting. I'm glad I kept reading as it turned out to be the best book I've read in ages.
It covers many issues of real life, with a story that unravels slowly, and I like it for that. The main female character is written well, as are all the characters. We still have our vampires and werewolves, but really, it's a story about what life can throw at you, along with some great twists and turns.
This is an unusual story and I can't wait to see where it goes to next. Highly recommended.
It covers many issues of real life, with a story that unravels slowly, and I like it for that. The main female character is written well, as are all the characters. We still have our vampires and werewolves, but really, it's a story about what life can throw at you, along with some great twists and turns.
This is an unusual story and I can't wait to see where it goes to next. Highly recommended.
May 17, 2020
Very different from what I've read before. There were times when the multiple people in Pierces head were a little much. Also, the book ended on a cliff hanger which I don't care for. There was very little actually going on in this book. Mostly memories from times gone by and how Pierced got to where she currently is, as well as lead in to her meeting 'Pink' and finding out more about the strange abilities she may have.
Since I already have the next book (package deal) I'll be reading it.
Since I already have the next book (package deal) I'll be reading it.
September 24, 2025
What is happening
This book is the first book of a trilogy of vampires and werewolves ( I know what's crossing your mind right now and it's not like those books). The author knows how to insert a cliffhanger too. Now I've got to read the rest of the series. The last line makes you want to read the rest of the series.
This book is the first book of a trilogy of vampires and werewolves ( I know what's crossing your mind right now and it's not like those books). The author knows how to insert a cliffhanger too. Now I've got to read the rest of the series. The last line makes you want to read the rest of the series.
July 6, 2019
A romance
Huh I really didn’t think it was a romance fantasy, I just thought it was a pretty decent fantasy book and really enjoyed the character development as the book went along
Enjoy
Huh I really didn’t think it was a romance fantasy, I just thought it was a pretty decent fantasy book and really enjoyed the character development as the book went along
Enjoy
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