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Spi-Corp #1
A First Love Never Dies
Janel Canton must be pregnant by the time Fleet Commander Pearson Acto catches up to her again and only one man will do for that. Her one true love, sexy Montana Sheriff Jake Reeves. But returning to Earth she finds he's still mourning his dead wife and has become very comfortable in the small-town life. Will introducing him to reality of the Universe be enough for him to move on to a new life?
Sheriff Jake Reeves never thought the nerdy girl he and his cronies picked on in High School would someday become a star ship captain capable of holding her own in just about any situation. But when he meets up with Janel again at their 20 year reunion, that's exactly what he finds! Gone is the nerdy little mouse that never fought back. In it's place, is a rough and tumble, no holds barred, drop-dead gorgeous woman who he's going to have one hell of a time not falling in love with...
Sheriff Jake Reeves never thought the nerdy girl he and his cronies picked on in High School would someday become a star ship captain capable of holding her own in just about any situation. But when he meets up with Janel again at their 20 year reunion, that's exactly what he finds! Gone is the nerdy little mouse that never fought back. In it's place, is a rough and tumble, no holds barred, drop-dead gorgeous woman who he's going to have one hell of a time not falling in love with...
- GenresScience FictionRomance
151 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 31, 2013
1 person is currently reading
94 people want to read
About the author
Margaret Taylor
13 books152 followersMargaret Taylor currently lives in San Antonio, TX and is scratching post for her five cats. She is an avid writer, a novice photographer and enjoys all things paranormal and science fiction! Just ask her, she'll tell you!
Her list of books include:
Wolf's Paradox - Book 1 of The Layren Series
A First Love Never Dies - Book 1 of The Spi-Corp Series
Saving His Love - Book 2 of The Spi-Corp Series
All In The Name of Love - A stand alone Romantic Suspense
Love's Prophecy - A stand alone Paranormal Adventure
She also has many other current projects in the works. If you visit her blog and ask nicely, she might be persuaded to post some tasty excerpts! *Bring Cookies as payment please!*
Her list of books include:
Wolf's Paradox - Book 1 of The Layren Series
A First Love Never Dies - Book 1 of The Spi-Corp Series
Saving His Love - Book 2 of The Spi-Corp Series
All In The Name of Love - A stand alone Romantic Suspense
Love's Prophecy - A stand alone Paranormal Adventure
She also has many other current projects in the works. If you visit her blog and ask nicely, she might be persuaded to post some tasty excerpts! *Bring Cookies as payment please!*
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
September 23, 2013
I am not usually one to enjoy science fiction novels. I'm more of a fantasy lover myself, to be entirely honest. Yet “A First Love Never Dies” by Margaret Taylor drew me in from the very beginning. I was immediately swept into the story, and was so enthralled that I finished the book in just a few hours. I can't wait to read the second installment of the Spi-Corp series. Seriously. I need find out what happens next...now. This is going to be one of those series where I bite my tongue because I want to hound the author to put out the next book. Haha...moving on. Okay, so the story is well put together. I know exactly what is going on, and the alien technology, words, etc is very well explained. There isn't so much technological/alien wording that I feel lost. The romance that this story is based off of is refreshing in that it's sarcastic, distanced, and romantic...all in one. It wasn't that mushy-gushy stuff, which usually puts me off, but it had enough true romance to keep me from rolling my eyes. This book was perfectly balanced in every single way. I recommend this book to EVERYONE. I do mean EVERYONE!
August 27, 2013
Reviewed for Round Table Book Reviews
2.5 stars
I think this story could have gone so far and done so much, but it just was drawn up short. I admit I am not into the whole space-type stories, so that took a bit to get used to, but I could have enjoyed it if a few things were written better.
Janel, the main character, was a very believable character who not only went through a traumatic time in high school, but also suffered outside of it which made her the caring, passionate person she is now helping other sufferers. She endured bullying in high school by a group of friends that made life miserable for her, so bad that she left as soon as she graduated never to be heard from again. Twenty years later she shows back in town with one goal in mind, to escape her planned mating with an awful fleet commander. Two things that I had a very hard time following was her plan of escaping said mating and her being in love with Jake. I don’t understand how any girl, no matter how unbelievably hot the guy is, can fall and stay in love with a guy who bullied her, especially when they weren’t even friends beforehand.
That aside, there were a few grammatical things that constantly bothered me with the words “to” and “too” being constantly confused, and loss of commas in designated areas. Also, the story was stilted, immature sometimes with dialogue, and confusing with how things were explained. The chapters were broken down between being in Janel and Jake’s perspectives, as well as a few in the bad guys’ POV, which I did love getting to see the entire spectrum of characters. I don’t think I truly understood what was happening until around 40% of the book, which I am unsure if that was intentional or not.
It does have a cliffhanger ending so be prepared for that. I think this story could have been amazing if it had been planned out better, the characters and plot were done more in depth, and some loopholes were filled in. I do like where this book left off, even though there wasn’t as much emotion as I would have liked. All in all, even though I really, really wanted to give this more stars, and while I enjoyed the premise and certain parts, I would not recommend this to a friend.
2.5 stars
I think this story could have gone so far and done so much, but it just was drawn up short. I admit I am not into the whole space-type stories, so that took a bit to get used to, but I could have enjoyed it if a few things were written better.
Janel, the main character, was a very believable character who not only went through a traumatic time in high school, but also suffered outside of it which made her the caring, passionate person she is now helping other sufferers. She endured bullying in high school by a group of friends that made life miserable for her, so bad that she left as soon as she graduated never to be heard from again. Twenty years later she shows back in town with one goal in mind, to escape her planned mating with an awful fleet commander. Two things that I had a very hard time following was her plan of escaping said mating and her being in love with Jake. I don’t understand how any girl, no matter how unbelievably hot the guy is, can fall and stay in love with a guy who bullied her, especially when they weren’t even friends beforehand.
That aside, there were a few grammatical things that constantly bothered me with the words “to” and “too” being constantly confused, and loss of commas in designated areas. Also, the story was stilted, immature sometimes with dialogue, and confusing with how things were explained. The chapters were broken down between being in Janel and Jake’s perspectives, as well as a few in the bad guys’ POV, which I did love getting to see the entire spectrum of characters. I don’t think I truly understood what was happening until around 40% of the book, which I am unsure if that was intentional or not.
It does have a cliffhanger ending so be prepared for that. I think this story could have been amazing if it had been planned out better, the characters and plot were done more in depth, and some loopholes were filled in. I do like where this book left off, even though there wasn’t as much emotion as I would have liked. All in all, even though I really, really wanted to give this more stars, and while I enjoyed the premise and certain parts, I would not recommend this to a friend.
February 24, 2014
“Their small town eyes will gape at you
In dull surprise, when payment due
Exceeds accounts received …”
(Janis Ian, At Seventeen)
There are so many of us, both men and women, who suffered being teased, laughed at, pushed around and bullied while in high school, and who have dreamed of going back home for some adult payback. Well, this book begins as Janel Canton returns to her small hometown in Montana to attend her twentieth high school reunion, to hopefully unite with the high school hero she was enamored of as a teenage outcast, and Wow! has she changed!
But there are certain differences between Janel’s life experiences and those of Janis Ian, whose music supported me through some painful years ‘back when’. Janel didn’t just leave her hometown, she left her home planet, kidnapped by aliens she never even knew existed, only to escape and eventually rise to the captaincy of a space ship dedicated to rescuing other victims of the alien sex trade. This beautiful, confident, determined woman has come to her reunion not to simply collect payment due for the mistreatment she got from her classmates, but to prevent a very powerful alien from destroying her new life. She needs something from Sheriff Jake Reeves, her high school crush, and accompanied by Moren, her alien partner, she sets out to get it.
I have to admit, I LOVED this book! It combines the best elements of romance, science fantasy, and action/adventure, using some very wonderful characters, including Comm. Pearson Acto, the powerful alien looking to capture Janel, and Jake’s teenage son Jonathon, to tightly weave an intriguing tale that I was unable to put down once I started it. Reading about Jonathon’s experiences aboard the White Fang, Janel’s ship, lifted my spirits really high! I am already planning on reading ‘Saving His Love’, the next book in the series. With no hesitation at all, I give ‘A First Love Never Dies’ a 5-star rating.
I am very grateful for the free reviewer’s copy I was given.
Reviewed by: Roberta
August 16, 2014
Janel Canton grew up a nerd, with the 'popular' crowd bullying her right through her high school years. That didn't stop her from falling in love with golden boy of the group, Jake Reeves. After 4 years of torment Janel finished high school, left the town and didn't look back.
We start off with Janel arriving in her home town for her 20 year high school reunion. The plan: find Jake Reeves, get pregnant with his child (whether by natural or artificial means) and save herself from the clutches of Fleet Commander Pearson Acto who is hellbent on making her his own. The trouble is....Janel doesn't want to be his but he won't let it go and chases her halfway across the universe. The only way to convince him to leave her alone? Get pregnant by someone else to show her commitment to another. And for Janel there is only one man in the entire universe she wants a child with, Jake Reeves.
As the story unfolds, we see the difficulty Janel has in putting such a tormented past behind her. You don't get the immediate see-love-interest-and-sex-their-brains-out trope rife in so many books of this genre. It's more of a steady developing burn with a lot of character development and internal struggle to not be defined by one's past actions. Taylor has created a strong female lead in Janel and although there is a softer, nurturing side (evident in her dealings with Jakes son, John), I couldn't get enough of Janel. She's self sufficient and extremely independent without trying to fit in with the guys or using her sexuality to manipulate a male dominated situation as you see in other books. A woman after my own heart!
The only downside for me is the length of the book. So many avenues to explore that it left me wanting a bit more - I guess I'll just have to read the next one!
We start off with Janel arriving in her home town for her 20 year high school reunion. The plan: find Jake Reeves, get pregnant with his child (whether by natural or artificial means) and save herself from the clutches of Fleet Commander Pearson Acto who is hellbent on making her his own. The trouble is....Janel doesn't want to be his but he won't let it go and chases her halfway across the universe. The only way to convince him to leave her alone? Get pregnant by someone else to show her commitment to another. And for Janel there is only one man in the entire universe she wants a child with, Jake Reeves.
As the story unfolds, we see the difficulty Janel has in putting such a tormented past behind her. You don't get the immediate see-love-interest-and-sex-their-brains-out trope rife in so many books of this genre. It's more of a steady developing burn with a lot of character development and internal struggle to not be defined by one's past actions. Taylor has created a strong female lead in Janel and although there is a softer, nurturing side (evident in her dealings with Jakes son, John), I couldn't get enough of Janel. She's self sufficient and extremely independent without trying to fit in with the guys or using her sexuality to manipulate a male dominated situation as you see in other books. A woman after my own heart!
The only downside for me is the length of the book. So many avenues to explore that it left me wanting a bit more - I guess I'll just have to read the next one!
March 28, 2014
*I did the editing on this book so I cannot speak of any errors I may or may not have found/or missed*
This book follows Janel. A small town girl from a farm family that was picked on mercilessly all through high school by the popular kids; Including the one man she's loved for the last twenty years, Jake. Her life since leaving high school has been far more interesting and adventurous than anyone would think and it's this new life that brings Janel and Jake face to face again.
I really enjoyed this. The story has kind of a slow start but that quickly vanishes when she sees Jake again for the first time in twenty years. What follows is a roller-coaster of emotions the reader will feel from both main characters as well as the two minor ones of Moren and John.
There isn't too much hot and heavy in the book, and the one sex scene is shorter than most, but it suits the story. There's just enough interesting things to keep the reader wanting more, though I fear the ending will leave a few ready to rip their hair out.
I would recommend any lover of romances in general pick up a copy of this book, it won't be a bad purchase.
I give this book 5 of 5 paws
July 21, 2013
*This Book Was Given To Me By The Author In Exchange For An Honest Review*
I am not a big romance fan but throw some science fiction in there and it will sometimes catch my attention and that is exactly what happened with this book. When Nerd Girl was offered the book for review I read the synopsis and had to add it to my list and I am so glad that I did.
A First Love Never Dies is a real page turner which I read straight through not coming up once for air. The characters are amazing and the writing fluid and compelling which in a novella is, for me at least, unusual when not being written as part of an existing series. Here though I had no problem connecting with Janel and the rest of the ensemble.
Lovers of classic Joss Whedon (think Firefly) will adore this adventure and just like with the show will find themselves at the end all too soon, but here we have hope that part 2 will not be too far behind because TV networks have no control over indie authors and for this I am extremely grateful.
Last year I read a book called Break Out by Nina Croft that was another novella and that I claimed as my find of the year. Well it may only be July but this, for me, could be my Indie find of the year and I would urge EVERYONE to read it.
My only complaint? BOOK 2 ISN'T AVAILABLE YET!!!
V""V
***Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official.
For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fansite: www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.ng ***
I am not a big romance fan but throw some science fiction in there and it will sometimes catch my attention and that is exactly what happened with this book. When Nerd Girl was offered the book for review I read the synopsis and had to add it to my list and I am so glad that I did.
A First Love Never Dies is a real page turner which I read straight through not coming up once for air. The characters are amazing and the writing fluid and compelling which in a novella is, for me at least, unusual when not being written as part of an existing series. Here though I had no problem connecting with Janel and the rest of the ensemble.
Lovers of classic Joss Whedon (think Firefly) will adore this adventure and just like with the show will find themselves at the end all too soon, but here we have hope that part 2 will not be too far behind because TV networks have no control over indie authors and for this I am extremely grateful.
Last year I read a book called Break Out by Nina Croft that was another novella and that I claimed as my find of the year. Well it may only be July but this, for me, could be my Indie find of the year and I would urge EVERYONE to read it.
My only complaint? BOOK 2 ISN'T AVAILABLE YET!!!
V""V
***Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official.
For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fansite: www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.ng ***
January 5, 2015
A First Love Never Dies is Margaret Taylor's first book in her The Spi-Corp Series. In A First Love Never Dies, Captain Janel Canton returns to Earth to attend her high school reunion. In high school Janel was bullied big time but she needs to get pregnant so she returns to her hometown. Pretty much everyone in town is still jerks except for her high school crush Jack Reeves. Due to Janel's own personal alien stalker, Jack and his son John get to enjoy a wild ride in space with Janel.
The plot has lots of twists and turns and I really enjoyed that. The romance in the story is a very small part of the overall plot-line so if your looking for a big-time romance, this story isn't for you. But if you like lots of adventure with a hint of romance, then you will really like this story. Also this story has a cliffhanger which I normally don't like cliffhangers but it did make sense with this plot. This is the first book of an on-going saga which I normally don't get into but with this story I will make an exception. I look forward to reading the next installment of this series.
The plot has lots of twists and turns and I really enjoyed that. The romance in the story is a very small part of the overall plot-line so if your looking for a big-time romance, this story isn't for you. But if you like lots of adventure with a hint of romance, then you will really like this story. Also this story has a cliffhanger which I normally don't like cliffhangers but it did make sense with this plot. This is the first book of an on-going saga which I normally don't get into but with this story I will make an exception. I look forward to reading the next installment of this series.
March 17, 2014
The sci-fi elements of “The First Love Never Dies” are imaginative, and unique. The story and plot lines are sound and flow well.
Read full review in the 2014 March issue of InD’tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2014 March issue of InD’tale Magazine.
December 31, 2022
I've waited years to read this book and I didn't start until I got the second book at Smashwords.
There is a third book planned, which deals with other characters, but given the author's financial trials etc. I'm not sure if or when it will be published.
I still recommend that you read this as it is original and the two books complete these characters story.
There is a third book planned, which deals with other characters, but given the author's financial trials etc. I'm not sure if or when it will be published.
I still recommend that you read this as it is original and the two books complete these characters story.
January 2, 2014
Love the cover....I'm not usually reaching for a sci-fi book, but that isn't to say I don't get into them when I do. Aside from some minor grammatical errors, this book grabbed my attention fairly quickly and I am ready for book 2.
I thought the author did a very good job pulling you into the story. Janel returns to Earth to attend her high school reunion. Unbeknownst to anyone there, she has spent the past 20 years traveling the universe. As far as everyone is concerned, that is not even possible and she cannot share that information with them. However, she does have an ulterior motive for going back and no, it isn't just to see the people who made high school unbearable for her. Janel has a problem and to eliminate that problem, she needs to get pregnant and only one man will do...the one guy she crushed on throughout high school...the thing is, he never, ever looked at her twice, was actually part of the in crowd that made her life miserable back in the day, and could potentially already have a wife and family. Of course things don't go as planned, and Jake and son end up on her ship on an adventure no one expected. We'll learn how Janel ended up in space, what she has been doing, and her intentions toward Jake. To top it all off, she is a smuggler helping kidnapped women return home and if she is caught, she faces the death penalty...There were times when I did want to smack Jake, but then again, Janel wasn't quite so innocent either....I waffled between understanding his view point, but also hers. Can she ask the man she has always loved to stay with her? Can she give it all up and return home? Will she be caught?
And then the ending...on the one hand, I couldn't believe it...and yet, it made sense too and answered some of those questions...
I thought the author did a very good job pulling you into the story. Janel returns to Earth to attend her high school reunion. Unbeknownst to anyone there, she has spent the past 20 years traveling the universe. As far as everyone is concerned, that is not even possible and she cannot share that information with them. However, she does have an ulterior motive for going back and no, it isn't just to see the people who made high school unbearable for her. Janel has a problem and to eliminate that problem, she needs to get pregnant and only one man will do...the one guy she crushed on throughout high school...the thing is, he never, ever looked at her twice, was actually part of the in crowd that made her life miserable back in the day, and could potentially already have a wife and family. Of course things don't go as planned, and Jake and son end up on her ship on an adventure no one expected. We'll learn how Janel ended up in space, what she has been doing, and her intentions toward Jake. To top it all off, she is a smuggler helping kidnapped women return home and if she is caught, she faces the death penalty...There were times when I did want to smack Jake, but then again, Janel wasn't quite so innocent either....I waffled between understanding his view point, but also hers. Can she ask the man she has always loved to stay with her? Can she give it all up and return home? Will she be caught?
And then the ending...on the one hand, I couldn't believe it...and yet, it made sense too and answered some of those questions...
July 11, 2013
A First Love Never Dies
by Margaret Taylor
Ms. Taylor tells an exciting tale of two people who have a history but it’s their future that is at stake. Janel was a high school nerd and faced a great deal of torment at the hands of the popular crowd. I could identify with Janel’s high school life. I wasn’t picked on like she was but there were clearly different cliques in my high school. Ms. Taylor’s description of the local hang out with the different levels of acceptance was hearbreakingly true. Janel returns to town for her twenty year high school reuion but with an agenda. He seeks out her first love Jake.
Jake was one of the popular crowd and one of Janel’s tormentors. Yet he felt bad about it. When Janel comes back, he is enticed by this new person. He doesn’t recognize her after all the years. The action between Janel and Jake was sizzling and also heartbreaking. Janel has a history that leaves her strong yet vulnerable. She never wants to be second place in anyone’s heart. I feel the same way.
Moren is a secondary character but one that I want to know more about. He is a perfect second in command to Janel but his history and backstory deserve their own story. I can’t wait to hear more about him.
A First Love Never Dies is a gripping tale of two people who fight their past as they bridge a new future. Janel and Jake will touch your heart and Ms. Taylor’s world building will leave you sailing among the stars. I felt like I was there within the story. I highly recommend A First Love Never Dies for everyone who enjoys a story full of conflict, passion and a unique world. I am anxiously awaiting the next story in this series!
by Margaret Taylor
Ms. Taylor tells an exciting tale of two people who have a history but it’s their future that is at stake. Janel was a high school nerd and faced a great deal of torment at the hands of the popular crowd. I could identify with Janel’s high school life. I wasn’t picked on like she was but there were clearly different cliques in my high school. Ms. Taylor’s description of the local hang out with the different levels of acceptance was hearbreakingly true. Janel returns to town for her twenty year high school reuion but with an agenda. He seeks out her first love Jake.
Jake was one of the popular crowd and one of Janel’s tormentors. Yet he felt bad about it. When Janel comes back, he is enticed by this new person. He doesn’t recognize her after all the years. The action between Janel and Jake was sizzling and also heartbreaking. Janel has a history that leaves her strong yet vulnerable. She never wants to be second place in anyone’s heart. I feel the same way.
Moren is a secondary character but one that I want to know more about. He is a perfect second in command to Janel but his history and backstory deserve their own story. I can’t wait to hear more about him.
A First Love Never Dies is a gripping tale of two people who fight their past as they bridge a new future. Janel and Jake will touch your heart and Ms. Taylor’s world building will leave you sailing among the stars. I felt like I was there within the story. I highly recommend A First Love Never Dies for everyone who enjoys a story full of conflict, passion and a unique world. I am anxiously awaiting the next story in this series!
August 22, 2013
Stars out of five: 3.5
I was pleasently surprised by this first read from this author. This series has a lot of potential to be a great romantic suspense. There was a lot of dialog, information gathering so to speak. The story lacked the heart pounding action that could make this story soar to a 4 or 5 star rating. Overall the series is off to a great start, has a lot of potential and I really am looking forward to what she has in store for book two.
This isn't your typical "boy meets girl" love story. It begins with Janel returning to her hometown for a reunion, having all the typical nervousness about her fellow classmates that comes along with a twenty year absense.
The reunion isn't Janel's only reason for returning to her hometown, or earth for that matter, it's Jake. Her high school crush. Jake along with all the other jock type, clique kids were the center of Janel's unhappy high school years. They picked on her, bullied her to an extent, thn she disappeared, literally off the face of the earth. No one has seen no hyde no hair of her in that time frame.
Janel and her second in command Moren have returned to earth on an mission to impregnate Janel, to keep her from the clutches of Acto, a male that wishes to make her his at any cost. Janel, just wants Jake. Jake becomes injured and has to join Janel and Moren in space, where he begins to unravel where Janel has been all these years.
The love between them begins to simmer as Acto gets closer to his prize.
I was pleasently surprised by this first read from this author. This series has a lot of potential to be a great romantic suspense. There was a lot of dialog, information gathering so to speak. The story lacked the heart pounding action that could make this story soar to a 4 or 5 star rating. Overall the series is off to a great start, has a lot of potential and I really am looking forward to what she has in store for book two.
This isn't your typical "boy meets girl" love story. It begins with Janel returning to her hometown for a reunion, having all the typical nervousness about her fellow classmates that comes along with a twenty year absense.
The reunion isn't Janel's only reason for returning to her hometown, or earth for that matter, it's Jake. Her high school crush. Jake along with all the other jock type, clique kids were the center of Janel's unhappy high school years. They picked on her, bullied her to an extent, thn she disappeared, literally off the face of the earth. No one has seen no hyde no hair of her in that time frame.
Janel and her second in command Moren have returned to earth on an mission to impregnate Janel, to keep her from the clutches of Acto, a male that wishes to make her his at any cost. Janel, just wants Jake. Jake becomes injured and has to join Janel and Moren in space, where he begins to unravel where Janel has been all these years.
The love between them begins to simmer as Acto gets closer to his prize.
August 22, 2013
I Read this for the Round Table Book Reviews
I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of this book, couldn’t put it down. I was a bit sceptical at first, as I don’t usually understand Sci-fi stories, but this wasn’t your run of the mill Sci-fi.
It was a great story about Janel Canton, a young woman, who returns to earth from her job in space, and goes to her High School’s 20th Reunion, with a mission. She MUST get pregnant, before Fleet Commander Pearson Acto catches up with her. He wants to mate with her, but she doesn’t want that. IF she is pregnant by another man Acto must leave her alone. There is only one man Janel wants to get pregnant by. Her first love, from High School, Jake Reeves. Unfortunately he was in the crowd of kids that bullied her mercilessly throughout High School, so didn’t know she loved him.
Janel is no longer that Nerdy Girl, she is the Captain of a haulage ship for Sci-Corp and has grown into a beautiful, strong woman. Jake is instantly attracted to her, but he is still mourning the death of his wife.
Janel must try to overcome the bitterness she feels from her past, and Jake must try to understand and believe the truth about the universe.
This was a very well written book. Not to techie. I laughed out loud at some scenes. The chemistry between all the characters was wonderful.
By the end I truly believed in everything that Margaret wrote about the universe.
A really great read & I cant wait for book 2
I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of this book, couldn’t put it down. I was a bit sceptical at first, as I don’t usually understand Sci-fi stories, but this wasn’t your run of the mill Sci-fi.
It was a great story about Janel Canton, a young woman, who returns to earth from her job in space, and goes to her High School’s 20th Reunion, with a mission. She MUST get pregnant, before Fleet Commander Pearson Acto catches up with her. He wants to mate with her, but she doesn’t want that. IF she is pregnant by another man Acto must leave her alone. There is only one man Janel wants to get pregnant by. Her first love, from High School, Jake Reeves. Unfortunately he was in the crowd of kids that bullied her mercilessly throughout High School, so didn’t know she loved him.
Janel is no longer that Nerdy Girl, she is the Captain of a haulage ship for Sci-Corp and has grown into a beautiful, strong woman. Jake is instantly attracted to her, but he is still mourning the death of his wife.
Janel must try to overcome the bitterness she feels from her past, and Jake must try to understand and believe the truth about the universe.
This was a very well written book. Not to techie. I laughed out loud at some scenes. The chemistry between all the characters was wonderful.
By the end I truly believed in everything that Margaret wrote about the universe.
A really great read & I cant wait for book 2
September 15, 2013
REVIEWED FOR ROUND TABLE BOOK REVIEWS
This is a science fiction tale with a unique story. Janel has a rough life and she doesn’t seem to be able to catch a break. When we first meet her, Janel is back on earth for her twenty-year high school reunion and something else…she is being hounded by a powerful Fleet Commander who wants to marry her against her will. Unless she gets pregnant before he catches her, she will be stuck in a worse than loveless relationship. Yet, through the entire story, Janel helps others especially those that are weak or cannot help themselves even at great personal risk.
The story is a fast paced, fun romp through space while also a poignant reflection on comfort, love, family and friends. It made me laugh and scream and cry. The characters are believable and well developed with one caveat…Jake, Janel’s secret love and a sexy Montana Sheriff, seems to fade away in the middle. In the beginning and end, he is an integral part of the story. His character grows, participates in the action and frustrated me to no end. And, there are so many characters I want to know more about particularly Moren and John. It left me asking, “Where is he? Why isn’t Jake fighting this or being asked his opinion?” It is the only reason I can’t give Taylor’s tale five stars.
That said, I highly recommend reading, A First Love Never Dies I can’t wait for the next in the series. Margaret can you please write faster?!
This is a science fiction tale with a unique story. Janel has a rough life and she doesn’t seem to be able to catch a break. When we first meet her, Janel is back on earth for her twenty-year high school reunion and something else…she is being hounded by a powerful Fleet Commander who wants to marry her against her will. Unless she gets pregnant before he catches her, she will be stuck in a worse than loveless relationship. Yet, through the entire story, Janel helps others especially those that are weak or cannot help themselves even at great personal risk.
The story is a fast paced, fun romp through space while also a poignant reflection on comfort, love, family and friends. It made me laugh and scream and cry. The characters are believable and well developed with one caveat…Jake, Janel’s secret love and a sexy Montana Sheriff, seems to fade away in the middle. In the beginning and end, he is an integral part of the story. His character grows, participates in the action and frustrated me to no end. And, there are so many characters I want to know more about particularly Moren and John. It left me asking, “Where is he? Why isn’t Jake fighting this or being asked his opinion?” It is the only reason I can’t give Taylor’s tale five stars.
That said, I highly recommend reading, A First Love Never Dies I can’t wait for the next in the series. Margaret can you please write faster?!
August 5, 2014
I absolutely love this story! This is a love story your never going to forget, simply because your never going to find another like it!
Janel is one kick ass chick. and her partner Moren is absolutely the coolest supporting character with his unique use of the english language! He so cracked me up! Absolutely all of the creatures and species of this story are so well described, with such detail I could clearly see this remarkable universe just the way Jake did.
Janel comes back to earth for her 20 year school reunion, or at lest that's her cover......she really needs to get pregnant in order to keep from being mated to some letch thats chasing her around the solar system, I mean, sheesh, he's not even human!
So Janel is gonna make a play for the boy she has always loved from her school days.
Jake is the Sheriff now, has a son, wife gone from cancer......Ok, theres the set up.......Now, no one knows what happened to Janel 20 yrs ago. She was just gone one graduation day.... Jake is about to learn where she's been and along with young John get the journey of their lives when the reunion party goes horribly wrong and Janel is forced to take them with her in order to save Jake's life.
This is a fast paced story of adventure that runs the whole gambit of....grief, pain, loneliness, loss, humor & love.
And oh yeah!.......there is one mother of a cliffhanger at the end, thank the stars I already have the sequel!
Only you M. Only you!
Janel is one kick ass chick. and her partner Moren is absolutely the coolest supporting character with his unique use of the english language! He so cracked me up! Absolutely all of the creatures and species of this story are so well described, with such detail I could clearly see this remarkable universe just the way Jake did.
Janel comes back to earth for her 20 year school reunion, or at lest that's her cover......she really needs to get pregnant in order to keep from being mated to some letch thats chasing her around the solar system, I mean, sheesh, he's not even human!
So Janel is gonna make a play for the boy she has always loved from her school days.
Jake is the Sheriff now, has a son, wife gone from cancer......Ok, theres the set up.......Now, no one knows what happened to Janel 20 yrs ago. She was just gone one graduation day.... Jake is about to learn where she's been and along with young John get the journey of their lives when the reunion party goes horribly wrong and Janel is forced to take them with her in order to save Jake's life.
This is a fast paced story of adventure that runs the whole gambit of....grief, pain, loneliness, loss, humor & love.
And oh yeah!.......there is one mother of a cliffhanger at the end, thank the stars I already have the sequel!
Only you M. Only you!
October 15, 2013
This is one of those books that I got hooked on immediately. I loved the interaction between the characters. I also loved how the main character thought and how she approached life. She was someone I could relate to, so it was easy to get caught up in another time when there are other planets we can travel to. I'm also a complete and total sucker for books about lost loves, or in this case, lost crushes. That was something else that made this story so relatable. Everyone remembers that person they had a crush on that they didn't have a chance with. I loved everything about this story. It's science fiction that I believe people will love even if they don't like science fiction! It's a great story with lots of fun moments and an interesting world that is easy to get drawn into. I read this book in one day, I loved it so much. If you're looking for a new and exciting read, please consider picking this up. I've read another book by the author and I loved that one too! I've found a new author to love and I will definitely be looking forward to more in the future! :) Read this review here: http://paperbacksandfrosting.com
August 14, 2013
This story was out of this world. It was fantastic and I instantly feel in love with the world that rocked my emotions page by page. Very original and intriguing storyline.
Janel is an empowered and awesome heroine. I could not get enough of her! She was a woman that could really handle herself and best of all she knew what she wanted and was going to get it. But really, at the end of it all she was still a woman who was truly looking for love.
Janel heads back to earth for her HS reunion in hopes of getting pregnant. Her journey or well, fight, to do so is one for the records. In the end though, the fight that ensues is not one you saw coming. The story line is a roller coaster of plot twisting event after event. With a plot line like this, and characters like these, this story was a super exciting and a real page turning novel.
Exceptional writing in this book. It was a super easy read to get lost in. I cannot wait to read book two with the ending that this one had. It was nail biting.
Janel is an empowered and awesome heroine. I could not get enough of her! She was a woman that could really handle herself and best of all she knew what she wanted and was going to get it. But really, at the end of it all she was still a woman who was truly looking for love.
Janel heads back to earth for her HS reunion in hopes of getting pregnant. Her journey or well, fight, to do so is one for the records. In the end though, the fight that ensues is not one you saw coming. The story line is a roller coaster of plot twisting event after event. With a plot line like this, and characters like these, this story was a super exciting and a real page turning novel.
Exceptional writing in this book. It was a super easy read to get lost in. I cannot wait to read book two with the ending that this one had. It was nail biting.
January 30, 2014
This was a really engaging story. Even though the characters eventually make their way to the far reaches of space, the small-town Earth beginning really hooked me. Having gone to high school in a small town in the 1980s, Janel's memories of high school and the emotions surrounding her 20-year reunion rang true. It just adds to the fun and adventure that she happens to be the kick-ass captain of an interstellar freight-hauling starship! She's come back to Earth to see if there's any chance she can get impregnated by the only man she's ever loved, Jake Reeves. Because she's got to be pregnant by the time the weekend's up, or an unsavory fleet commander is going to try to claim her for his mate.
The alien worlds and technology are explained as Jake is introduced to the universe, so it is easy to understand what is going on. The ending is a cliffhanger, so it leaves you wanting more.
Frequent grammar and punctuation errors are a bit distracting, but the story is solid.
The alien worlds and technology are explained as Jake is introduced to the universe, so it is easy to understand what is going on. The ending is a cliffhanger, so it leaves you wanting more.
Frequent grammar and punctuation errors are a bit distracting, but the story is solid.
May 11, 2014
I was asked to read and review
It was a good book, very decent and well written but at parts very dry. While the theme of the book was unusual; a woman discovers she’s human after being kidnapped by aliens and forced into a life of servitude after having been kidnapped and sold as a slave. While the author doesn’t go into the more than to give the back story, the plot was well written and one I will definitely read again later on.
The main characters Janel and Jack are witty and charismatic, figuring their way through past hurts and future difficulties. Janel has someone (I don’t want to give toooo much away!) chasing her and needs the help of Jack to stop it, however at the same time she’s attempting to free other kidnapped women and return them to earth. While I was sad that there wasn’t really a happily ever after, I can and do appreciate that there was a huge cliff hanger that set up for more books in the series.
It was a good book, very decent and well written but at parts very dry. While the theme of the book was unusual; a woman discovers she’s human after being kidnapped by aliens and forced into a life of servitude after having been kidnapped and sold as a slave. While the author doesn’t go into the more than to give the back story, the plot was well written and one I will definitely read again later on.
The main characters Janel and Jack are witty and charismatic, figuring their way through past hurts and future difficulties. Janel has someone (I don’t want to give toooo much away!) chasing her and needs the help of Jack to stop it, however at the same time she’s attempting to free other kidnapped women and return them to earth. While I was sad that there wasn’t really a happily ever after, I can and do appreciate that there was a huge cliff hanger that set up for more books in the series.
June 4, 2014
I was given a copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
I was not anticipating how I would feel when I read this book, and was pleasantly surprised. I especially enjoyed the heroine of the story, she is pretty fantastic. Although I find her love interest to be a bit confusing at points, I wish that it had been explained more.
There was one part that happened that caused me to shriek out, loudly and ecstatically. Basically I looked like a crazy person who was excited to be doing dishes. Without spoilers I will say this... It was my absolute favorite part of this book and sealed my interest in continuing the series.
I did have some issues with grammar usage in this book. There were an abundance of exclamation points, and a few other issues.
4/5 Platypires
http://www.platypire.com/j-hooligan/a...
I was not anticipating how I would feel when I read this book, and was pleasantly surprised. I especially enjoyed the heroine of the story, she is pretty fantastic. Although I find her love interest to be a bit confusing at points, I wish that it had been explained more.
There was one part that happened that caused me to shriek out, loudly and ecstatically. Basically I looked like a crazy person who was excited to be doing dishes. Without spoilers I will say this... It was my absolute favorite part of this book and sealed my interest in continuing the series.
I did have some issues with grammar usage in this book. There were an abundance of exclamation points, and a few other issues.
4/5 Platypires
http://www.platypire.com/j-hooligan/a...
May 21, 2014
This book is full of danger, romance and takes place outside of Earth's orbit (well the majority of the book anyway). It's a fun quick little jaunt through outer space to find answers to so many questions you didn't even know you wanted an answer to.
It was short and had a bit of sexual energy but nothing over the top. It really shouldn't be a romance but more of an adventure because the romance is an underlying theme, but I think danger is more on the top of the agenda. However, being that this leaves us hanging and waiting for book 2, the romance could very well pick up in the next book. I plan on finding out..I'm hooked by the author's way of writing. If you are a sci fi newbie and get turned off by all the technical ideas and twists in most sci fi...this would be a perfect book for you! Want something a little different? Try this one..you won't be disappointed
It was short and had a bit of sexual energy but nothing over the top. It really shouldn't be a romance but more of an adventure because the romance is an underlying theme, but I think danger is more on the top of the agenda. However, being that this leaves us hanging and waiting for book 2, the romance could very well pick up in the next book. I plan on finding out..I'm hooked by the author's way of writing. If you are a sci fi newbie and get turned off by all the technical ideas and twists in most sci fi...this would be a perfect book for you! Want something a little different? Try this one..you won't be disappointed
June 5, 2014
This book was awesome. She gets abducted by aliens and ends up working for them. She comes home to get pregnant to avoid mating with someone else. I don't normally read books relating to space but this book was intriguing and I am glad I read it. Can't wait to read number 2. Its nice for the nerd girls to grow up and become something and have people notice it. I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone. The author leaves you wanting more and she keeps you reading. She creates a world you can get lost in a characters you like. Read this book if you like romances that aren't straight forward. :)
January 27, 2015
Janel Canton, nerdy introvert in high school, is back in town just in time for her high school reunion. Nobody recognizes this tall, sexy supermodel that she's become. Now, for the good part. She's been gone, these past twenty years, because she was abducted by interstellar slavers, subsequently escaped, and remade herself into the equivalent of a long haul trucker; only she drives a spaceship. She's come to town to find the boy she used to secretly love, in the hopes that he will get her pregnant.
October 9, 2013
I actually really liked this one a lot! a kind of new twist on what i have read before, and i am really looking forward to the next book. The only thing that i didn't really get was the girl at the end - she should only be about 5 but it makes her sound more like a teenager. Hopefully some clarification in the next one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 26, 2013
Cute SFR but had some issues, likea few things didn't make sense, and the H was a bit of a whiner, and some stuff happens that gets glossed over, and it needs some editing, but altogether it's a decent read none the less. 2.5 stars
February 23, 2014
Janel Canton is a girl with a history, a story, a calling, and some very interesting friends, and there is nothing quite like delving into her worlds - all of them. A great read, and I can't wait to continue where this book left off.
September 1, 2013
WOW! This story ended on a cliff hanger and now I need Book #2! Excellent!
September 8, 2014
The cover is great. The editing is bad and almost made me quit reading. I definitely won't waste money on the next installment, since the comments on that said the author still doesn't know the difference between to/too. Before you call me a grammar nazi, this one even uses the wrong character name at least once, rarely uses apostrophes to show possessives, and almost never gets the commas right when addressing people. I paid money for this. It should be better. There are thousands of books for sale whose editing IS better.
What did I like? The worldbuilding. The tech. The sidekick. All were good. The overall feel of the backstory was emotional and realistic to a point. The general idea of returning to confront bullies was good.
Why two stars? This story made me angry. I found it completely unrealistic for a woman to pine for 20 years for a violent (her description) jerk who helped humiliate her for years, and who still thinks what they did wasn't bad. He tells her to "get over it" and only likes her now because she's hot. After typing this a few times I realized WHY it made me angry. I expected a Romance story but that's not what this is. Not by the ending. It's a Revenge story. She's not actually in love with the jerk. And that makes the plot much better for me.
What did I like? The worldbuilding. The tech. The sidekick. All were good. The overall feel of the backstory was emotional and realistic to a point. The general idea of returning to confront bullies was good.
Why two stars? This story made me angry. I found it completely unrealistic for a woman to pine for 20 years for a violent (her description) jerk who helped humiliate her for years, and who still thinks what they did wasn't bad. He tells her to "get over it" and only likes her now because she's hot. After typing this a few times I realized WHY it made me angry. I expected a Romance story but that's not what this is. Not by the ending. It's a Revenge story. She's not actually in love with the jerk. And that makes the plot much better for me.
September 28, 2016
A First Love Never Dies is my first book by Margaret Taylor. I know that I am terribly late to the party as this was a terrific book. Great story line, imaginative characters, and a long unrequited love story make this a must read for all sci-fi/romance readers. A few missteps on editing dropped a star.
October 27, 2015
Wow...An excellent read
This is my first book by Margaret Taylor and I must say, she is an awesome writer. As a lover of sci-fi and paranormal romance, any author who captures me from start to finish is worth delving into for more exciting reads. Thank you.
This is my first book by Margaret Taylor and I must say, she is an awesome writer. As a lover of sci-fi and paranormal romance, any author who captures me from start to finish is worth delving into for more exciting reads. Thank you.
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