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Chalcedony Chronicles #1
Carnelian
Everyone has a past, but for most it isn’t as long ago as Seth Sangre. His past is literally thousands of years ago. Seth’s life led him to the present seeking something that might help him save his country from destruction. He has been in the present for over three years now and just found exactly what he has been looking for.
Mari had dreams that college will be a fresh start, one where she would start over and not fall for the good looking player like high school. Unfortunately for her, that’s exactly what ends up falling into her lap on the first day she moves into the dorms. Now she has to hold to her promise to herself and not fall for the handsome Seth. But he doesn’t plan to make it easy for her. Seth has already marked her as his next conquest. As the semester progresses, Mari learns that Seth might just have a life of his own that’s actually from the past. Suddenly Mari finds her future along with her past put into question. She’s connected to Seth far more than she ever wanted to be and maybe the player isn’t who she thought he was. If Mari can trust her heart enough to follow him, Seth will lead Mari on an adventure of a lifetime and reveal family secrets she never knew existed
Mari had dreams that college will be a fresh start, one where she would start over and not fall for the good looking player like high school. Unfortunately for her, that’s exactly what ends up falling into her lap on the first day she moves into the dorms. Now she has to hold to her promise to herself and not fall for the handsome Seth. But he doesn’t plan to make it easy for her. Seth has already marked her as his next conquest. As the semester progresses, Mari learns that Seth might just have a life of his own that’s actually from the past. Suddenly Mari finds her future along with her past put into question. She’s connected to Seth far more than she ever wanted to be and maybe the player isn’t who she thought he was. If Mari can trust her heart enough to follow him, Seth will lead Mari on an adventure of a lifetime and reveal family secrets she never knew existed
200 pages, Paperback
First published January 9, 2014
523 people are currently reading
7248 people want to read
About the author
B. Kristin McMichael
39 books1,578 followersOriginally from Wisconsin, B. Kristin currently resides in Ohio with her husband, three small children, and three cats. When not doing the mom thing of chasing kids, baking cookies, and playing outside, she is using her PhD in biology as a scientist. In her free time she is currently hard at work on multiple novels. Every day is a new writing adventure. She is a fan of all YA/NA fantasy and science fiction.
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June 4, 2014
Carnelian is book one in the Chalcedony Chronicles by B. Kristin McMichael.
Marcella Navina, or Mari as she is known by, has arrived. She is moving into her dorm room and is about to begin her college career. Her life’s plan was never questioned. She always knew she was expected to work with her Grandfather after college. But the next four years were hers. She was most definitely not looking for a boyfriend. The first time she laid eyes on Seth, the oh so handsome college quarterback and most definite ladies man, she knew she had to stay away from him. This boy was a player with a capital “P!” But Seth has a different idea. He wants Mari and is not taking no for an answer.
“Something was really different with Seth Sangre, and I wasn’t sure I wanted to know what it was.”
Seth Sangre and his two brothers Ty and Dee are not normal college students. They are from the past. They are from ancient Egypt where they rode chariots into battle. Their country has been at war and Seth would do anything to help to save it. The Goddess has told Seth that he must travel to the future to meet someone very important to him. But that’s all she told him. So he has searched for three years to no avail. Until he met Mari. He knew she was the one destined for him to find. He just had to convince her of it.
“I don’t know why the goddess sent me to you, but I’ll be forever grateful. My eyes were never truly open until I met you. Even if she decides to pull me away from you tomorrow, I’ll do everything I can to get back. I can’t imagine a world without you, and I’ll find a way for us to be together.”
Seth and Mari are trying to navigate the first months of college and the first overwhelming emotions of true love. At the same time, though, they are faced with the reality that Seth does not belong here in the present. But why was he supposed to find Mari? Why was she so important?
Although I really did like Seth and Mari, I just never did fully connect with this story. It just didn’t pull me in the way I had hoped. But, there is plenty of room for further development. I did feel the love between Seth and Mari and some of the things Seth said were so beautiful and sweet. I instantly liked Seth’s friend Ty right from the start. The sequel Chrysoprase is due out late this summer and I will be interested to see where Ms. McMichael takes these two next. Will they find a way to be together? How will Mari help Seth to save his country? Is Mari strong enough to survive ancient Egypt or can she bring Seth back to her own time?
January 14, 2014
*I was given a copy by the author for an honest review.*
I am usually weary of reading time travel novels, because they are so confusing. My brain just goes into shock whenever I think of time travel. The possibilities are limitless and I find it hard to track all of the threads.
Also quite abnormal for me is to get into these kind of stories. I was pleasantly surprised to find this book more than compelling. I understood the flow of the narration and I was hooked.
About the characters I can only have words of praise.
There are few books in which I love the lead female, and this is one of them. Mari is such a fun person to read. I love her spirit, her wit, her funny side, her shy attitude but also her determination. Not to mention she's got some smart thoughts. I cannot fault her any. She's not whiny, not a slacker, not dependent on the man she loves. And she does love Seth very much, but I'm glad that doesn't eat up her brain cells like in most of the books out there.
Seth, oh my darling Seth, you are such eye candy. How could those chocolate eyes not melt you on the spot? I loved him to bits. He's so compatible with Mari it's not even funny. He loves her like crazy. Although he had some insta love going on I am so so so glad that this was not a book that banked on that. I got to experience their friendship grow into something more and that's always a plus. I can't say it loud and clear enough that I don't like books that don't have a love build up. I loved their love story.
The side characters like Dee, Ty and Sim were awesome in their own rights. They contributed beautifully to the story and weren't just for show.
I can't wait for the sequel to come out this summer. OH, bummer, such a long way to go. And with that little snippet at the end of the book, I will surely go crazy.
Good job Ms. McMichael.
I am usually weary of reading time travel novels, because they are so confusing. My brain just goes into shock whenever I think of time travel. The possibilities are limitless and I find it hard to track all of the threads.
Also quite abnormal for me is to get into these kind of stories. I was pleasantly surprised to find this book more than compelling. I understood the flow of the narration and I was hooked.
About the characters I can only have words of praise.
There are few books in which I love the lead female, and this is one of them. Mari is such a fun person to read. I love her spirit, her wit, her funny side, her shy attitude but also her determination. Not to mention she's got some smart thoughts. I cannot fault her any. She's not whiny, not a slacker, not dependent on the man she loves. And she does love Seth very much, but I'm glad that doesn't eat up her brain cells like in most of the books out there.
Seth, oh my darling Seth, you are such eye candy. How could those chocolate eyes not melt you on the spot? I loved him to bits. He's so compatible with Mari it's not even funny. He loves her like crazy. Although he had some insta love going on I am so so so glad that this was not a book that banked on that. I got to experience their friendship grow into something more and that's always a plus. I can't say it loud and clear enough that I don't like books that don't have a love build up. I loved their love story.
The side characters like Dee, Ty and Sim were awesome in their own rights. They contributed beautifully to the story and weren't just for show.
I can't wait for the sequel to come out this summer. OH, bummer, such a long way to go. And with that little snippet at the end of the book, I will surely go crazy.
Good job Ms. McMichael.
January 12, 2014
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review, Lovers of Paranormal.
This was one of the best books I have read in a while. It gripped me from the start. The hot guy literally falling into Mari's lap was a brilliant introduction to their relationship. The characters were really interesting and well formed with personalities that were consistent.
Seth, Ty and Dee coming from ancient Egypt and spending 3 years looking for an unknown girl could have been a bit of a washout but it was handled so well. Modern technology was not ignored but used and was an interesting detail when it failed to work when Mari wanted to look up specifics. Little details like this are what, to me, makes a great book. I hate to have unanswered questions and obvious possibilities ignored within a book. The details and explanations were well covered.
The book was well written with a good clear plot that kept moving along at a pace that meant I couldn't put the book down. I didn't and read it in around half a day.
A really great read!! Don't ignore the warning at the end of the book that says 'READ AT YOUR OWN RISK' It really is a cliffhanger to the next book that isn't out until Summer 2014 :-(
This was one of the best books I have read in a while. It gripped me from the start. The hot guy literally falling into Mari's lap was a brilliant introduction to their relationship. The characters were really interesting and well formed with personalities that were consistent.
Seth, Ty and Dee coming from ancient Egypt and spending 3 years looking for an unknown girl could have been a bit of a washout but it was handled so well. Modern technology was not ignored but used and was an interesting detail when it failed to work when Mari wanted to look up specifics. Little details like this are what, to me, makes a great book. I hate to have unanswered questions and obvious possibilities ignored within a book. The details and explanations were well covered.
The book was well written with a good clear plot that kept moving along at a pace that meant I couldn't put the book down. I didn't and read it in around half a day.
A really great read!! Don't ignore the warning at the end of the book that says 'READ AT YOUR OWN RISK' It really is a cliffhanger to the next book that isn't out until Summer 2014 :-(
August 8, 2014
1.5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and Lexia Press for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Unfortunately, I just can't do it with this book. I gave it the college try. I fully read the first three chapters, then I began skimming, then I ultimately gave up on page 65. My problems stem from an unlikable and immature narrator, a lack of good story editing, and too many tired YA tropes (which can be forgivable when used by deft hands). Worst of all, the MC has extremely poor insight, strikes me as a tad histrionic, and leaps to the worst conclusions about people she doesn't know at all. Nothing about this book felt like a college experience to me. It felt juvenile and even the atmosphere of the book screamed middle or high school.
I really dislike the MC, Mari. I'm finding her immature, snobbish, judgmental, self-centered, and she has a tendency to slut shame both men and women. The book is written in first person from her perspective, and for someone who is a freshman in college, seemingly an intelligent girl and bookworm, she sure is juvenile. She reads to me like she's in middle school, or maybe a freshman in high school. She also suffers from beautiful girl syndrome - you know the type, with the false humility. She's apparently hot, but doesn't know it, and other girls are far more interesting than she is, according to her (she tells us at one point about how the "Barbie girl," who told us nothing but where she came from, the dorm she is in, and her planned major, is more interesting than she is).
And despite being a hot girl herself, there's one scene when she ignores other girls in the quad who were "made out to the max with...their perfect tans" and revealing clothing. That's stealthy slut-shaming, but still slut-shaming. Acting like she's better than they are because they are made up while she is reading a book. It's very snobbish. She has very little personality and doesn't really interact much with other people. Almost everything we know takes place inside her head. She shrugs at people an awful lot, but rarely actually deigns to speak to them.
I will spoiler the rest of this since I give away quite a few details from the first few chapters. Plus, this review is really long for only reading the first third or so.
Now here's the deal, reading the description you can see that Seth has a past, and that Mari is undoubtedly part of it. You can see there might be some insta-love and/or destiny to fulfill here. I had no problem with that. I knew that going in and was willing to give it a chance. When done well, stereotypical tropes don't bother me a bit. Laini Taylor used similar tropes in DoSaB, but they worked, and worked well. This book, though, I never got to get to that part of the story. College students just don't behave this way, and it's a shame, because I was looking forward to a book set in college, not high school. This, though, was a regression - they acted like very young high schoolers. I can't get past the MC, her stupidity, the constant repetition and the terrible dialogue. Especially when this book is in desperate need of a good deal of editing.
The writing itself is serviceable and easy, but could do with some serious editorial love. Even casting aside some of the grammatical errors (I noted errant commas here and there and some verb agreement issues), and ignoring some of the awkward sentences, there was a lot of unnecessary exposition. Readers aren't stupid. They will pick up on the details, especially the more obvious ones that are written using flashing neon signs (and repeated on every other page...seriously, do something about that, it gets annoying very quickly). If it was only a random mistake here and there, it wouldn't have bothered me so much, but it kept taking me out of the story. There were other details that felt like they were thrown in there for page count, and added nothing to the story.
Some examples:
-He kissed the deep red stone amulet crusted in blood in his hand... To me, that's an awkward sentence because the way in which it is constructed suggests that the blood is in his hand, not on the amulet.
-Every muscle around his shoulders and arms were perfectly defined..." Either the muscles were, or the muscle was. Bad verb agreement here.
-In strolled a petite, olive-skinned, girl with long dark hair. One of several errant commas.
-There was a line for the first half of the alphabet. Since my last name was Navina, sometimes I fell in the first or second half, depending on how many people of each last name were around. Wait, what? Yes, indeed, your name would fall into either the first or the second half of the alphabet.
-(After spending ample time showing us that her roommate is not a morning person, the roommate sits down and complains about her schedule having classes at 8:30 a.m.) Mari then tells us, "...and now I realized why she was complaining. She was not a morning person. What gave it away? The fact that you spent several pages before this showing us how she was half asleep while you were both going to the orientation? Or the part where she literally just lamented having morning classes?
- Talking about a girl they meet during orientation, she noted it was "very odd that a girl had a southern accent, since they were "about as far away from the south as you could get. Why is that weird? Didn't Mari choose this school precisely because it was far from her family, so she could really strive for independence? Is it that bizarre that someone from the south might choose to go to school there also? What a weird thing to call weird.
- "...they caught up with numbers of girls, greeting them with kisses." In context, another awkward sentence. I get what she's going for here, but it's just written in a way that doesn't read well.
In all, this is not one I can finish. My pages are marked up so badly, my Nook can't handle it. Some pages have several marks. There is some potential here, I felt the undertones of a good story in there somewhere, but the surface of the water was so muddy, I just couldn't see it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Lexia Press for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Unfortunately, I just can't do it with this book. I gave it the college try. I fully read the first three chapters, then I began skimming, then I ultimately gave up on page 65. My problems stem from an unlikable and immature narrator, a lack of good story editing, and too many tired YA tropes (which can be forgivable when used by deft hands). Worst of all, the MC has extremely poor insight, strikes me as a tad histrionic, and leaps to the worst conclusions about people she doesn't know at all. Nothing about this book felt like a college experience to me. It felt juvenile and even the atmosphere of the book screamed middle or high school.
I really dislike the MC, Mari. I'm finding her immature, snobbish, judgmental, self-centered, and she has a tendency to slut shame both men and women. The book is written in first person from her perspective, and for someone who is a freshman in college, seemingly an intelligent girl and bookworm, she sure is juvenile. She reads to me like she's in middle school, or maybe a freshman in high school. She also suffers from beautiful girl syndrome - you know the type, with the false humility. She's apparently hot, but doesn't know it, and other girls are far more interesting than she is, according to her (she tells us at one point about how the "Barbie girl," who told us nothing but where she came from, the dorm she is in, and her planned major, is more interesting than she is).
And despite being a hot girl herself, there's one scene when she ignores other girls in the quad who were "made out to the max with...their perfect tans" and revealing clothing. That's stealthy slut-shaming, but still slut-shaming. Acting like she's better than they are because they are made up while she is reading a book. It's very snobbish. She has very little personality and doesn't really interact much with other people. Almost everything we know takes place inside her head. She shrugs at people an awful lot, but rarely actually deigns to speak to them.
I will spoiler the rest of this since I give away quite a few details from the first few chapters. Plus, this review is really long for only reading the first third or so.
Now here's the deal, reading the description you can see that Seth has a past, and that Mari is undoubtedly part of it. You can see there might be some insta-love and/or destiny to fulfill here. I had no problem with that. I knew that going in and was willing to give it a chance. When done well, stereotypical tropes don't bother me a bit. Laini Taylor used similar tropes in DoSaB, but they worked, and worked well. This book, though, I never got to get to that part of the story. College students just don't behave this way, and it's a shame, because I was looking forward to a book set in college, not high school. This, though, was a regression - they acted like very young high schoolers. I can't get past the MC, her stupidity, the constant repetition and the terrible dialogue. Especially when this book is in desperate need of a good deal of editing.
The writing itself is serviceable and easy, but could do with some serious editorial love. Even casting aside some of the grammatical errors (I noted errant commas here and there and some verb agreement issues), and ignoring some of the awkward sentences, there was a lot of unnecessary exposition. Readers aren't stupid. They will pick up on the details, especially the more obvious ones that are written using flashing neon signs (and repeated on every other page...seriously, do something about that, it gets annoying very quickly). If it was only a random mistake here and there, it wouldn't have bothered me so much, but it kept taking me out of the story. There were other details that felt like they were thrown in there for page count, and added nothing to the story.
Some examples:
-He kissed the deep red stone amulet crusted in blood in his hand... To me, that's an awkward sentence because the way in which it is constructed suggests that the blood is in his hand, not on the amulet.
-Every muscle around his shoulders and arms were perfectly defined..." Either the muscles were, or the muscle was. Bad verb agreement here.
-In strolled a petite, olive-skinned, girl with long dark hair. One of several errant commas.
-There was a line for the first half of the alphabet. Since my last name was Navina, sometimes I fell in the first or second half, depending on how many people of each last name were around. Wait, what? Yes, indeed, your name would fall into either the first or the second half of the alphabet.
-(After spending ample time showing us that her roommate is not a morning person, the roommate sits down and complains about her schedule having classes at 8:30 a.m.) Mari then tells us, "...and now I realized why she was complaining. She was not a morning person. What gave it away? The fact that you spent several pages before this showing us how she was half asleep while you were both going to the orientation? Or the part where she literally just lamented having morning classes?
- Talking about a girl they meet during orientation, she noted it was "very odd that a girl had a southern accent, since they were "about as far away from the south as you could get. Why is that weird? Didn't Mari choose this school precisely because it was far from her family, so she could really strive for independence? Is it that bizarre that someone from the south might choose to go to school there also? What a weird thing to call weird.
- "...they caught up with numbers of girls, greeting them with kisses." In context, another awkward sentence. I get what she's going for here, but it's just written in a way that doesn't read well.
In all, this is not one I can finish. My pages are marked up so badly, my Nook can't handle it. Some pages have several marks. There is some potential here, I felt the undertones of a good story in there somewhere, but the surface of the water was so muddy, I just couldn't see it.
February 8, 2014
**I was given this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.**
**slight hints at spoilers...
Before I say anything, I just have to take a moment and gush over the cover because it is completely AWESOME. It's one of those covers that instantly draw you too a book before you even read blurb. So pretty.
Anyway, I had no idea what to expect from this book, except for the fact that I've loved everything I've read from B Kristin McMichael.
I was completely blown away by this cool time traveling concept. I would have never thought to write about ancient Egypt or bring influence from that culture, out of the past that could have been chosen, I was intrigued that this was selected.
I was slightly leery about the pace of the book because the way the beginning was it felt like it could only be a stand alone, because I just couldn't imagine it going on for me than one book, it felt like it was possible to run out of plot...but no, Kristin McMichael took me by surprise and completely took me by surprise when Mari went back for Seth and his father dropped that little bomb...yeah I totally did not expect that. That blew a whole new life into the story and immediately realized there was so much more it had to offer and I LOVED that.
I don't know what my problem is by I always seem to fall in love the secondary characters. I LOVED Ty! He was so adorable and I was routing for him all the time, especially when he went back to the past :) I can't wait to hear more from him!
I did love Seth, he the perfect book boyfriend and I did like Mari's character, very "relate-able" in many aspects. I loved their love and can't wait to see what's in store for them.
Great start to a cool new series by B Kristin McMichael, I'm excited for what's to come!
**slight hints at spoilers...
Before I say anything, I just have to take a moment and gush over the cover because it is completely AWESOME. It's one of those covers that instantly draw you too a book before you even read blurb. So pretty.
Anyway, I had no idea what to expect from this book, except for the fact that I've loved everything I've read from B Kristin McMichael.
I was completely blown away by this cool time traveling concept. I would have never thought to write about ancient Egypt or bring influence from that culture, out of the past that could have been chosen, I was intrigued that this was selected.
I was slightly leery about the pace of the book because the way the beginning was it felt like it could only be a stand alone, because I just couldn't imagine it going on for me than one book, it felt like it was possible to run out of plot...but no, Kristin McMichael took me by surprise and completely took me by surprise when Mari went back for Seth and his father dropped that little bomb...yeah I totally did not expect that. That blew a whole new life into the story and immediately realized there was so much more it had to offer and I LOVED that.
I don't know what my problem is by I always seem to fall in love the secondary characters. I LOVED Ty! He was so adorable and I was routing for him all the time, especially when he went back to the past :) I can't wait to hear more from him!
I did love Seth, he the perfect book boyfriend and I did like Mari's character, very "relate-able" in many aspects. I loved their love and can't wait to see what's in store for them.
Great start to a cool new series by B Kristin McMichael, I'm excited for what's to come!
August 9, 2016
R2R (LoP) Carnelian (The Chalcedony Chronicles)
I received a free copy, through LoP, in exchange for a review.
Past, present, future. Seth is all of these, all in one person. He's been pushed forward, in time, to find someone, someone that will help his past country from further war and destruction. He cannot remember from where he came from or time, just that he needs to find someone. Mari is just starting college and has been looking forward to this time, to be by herself and away from her loving family. The first day there, she has an interesting introduction to this mysterious guy, who just happens to fall into her lap, literally. After that, everything takes on a new course, one that will test her mind, knowledge, faith and a discovery that would boggle most people.
'I went back to Seth's room and lay down on the bed. The facts were confusing. Who were the Sangre brothers? Why was Seth searching for me? How did he heal so quickly? Was he even human? I sat up at the last thought. I wasn't really a believer in all the fantasy books I read; they were just entertaining, but now my mind was racing. Seth didn't exist beyond the past three years, and he could heal miraculously. I got up and went to his open computer. It was already turned on, and I decided to borrow it. While I waited for Seth, I could make my own list of possibilities.'
My first 5 star book for the year! While parts of the story were a little childish, it was overall a wonderful story, with not just one plot line to follow. It really gave a lot more that I thought it would and it has left me wanting to know what is going to happen! Time travel, new friends, puzzles, it's got everything!
I received a free copy, through LoP, in exchange for a review.
Past, present, future. Seth is all of these, all in one person. He's been pushed forward, in time, to find someone, someone that will help his past country from further war and destruction. He cannot remember from where he came from or time, just that he needs to find someone. Mari is just starting college and has been looking forward to this time, to be by herself and away from her loving family. The first day there, she has an interesting introduction to this mysterious guy, who just happens to fall into her lap, literally. After that, everything takes on a new course, one that will test her mind, knowledge, faith and a discovery that would boggle most people.
'I went back to Seth's room and lay down on the bed. The facts were confusing. Who were the Sangre brothers? Why was Seth searching for me? How did he heal so quickly? Was he even human? I sat up at the last thought. I wasn't really a believer in all the fantasy books I read; they were just entertaining, but now my mind was racing. Seth didn't exist beyond the past three years, and he could heal miraculously. I got up and went to his open computer. It was already turned on, and I decided to borrow it. While I waited for Seth, I could make my own list of possibilities.'
My first 5 star book for the year! While parts of the story were a little childish, it was overall a wonderful story, with not just one plot line to follow. It really gave a lot more that I thought it would and it has left me wanting to know what is going to happen! Time travel, new friends, puzzles, it's got everything!
March 25, 2015
Love through the ages, two souls meant for each other, but living centuries and continents apart. A goddess steps in and with the magic of love and a special stone, Seth and his “two brothers” are thrust into the contemporary world that Mari resides in, only to have to wait three years for her to show up. Are Mari and Seth destined to be together, not if Mari has anything to say about it.
Carnelian by B. Kristin McMichael tells a fascinating tale of one cynical college freshman who fights the attraction to one of the college’s biggest players refusing to be another notch on his belt. Ms. McMichael has created a very realistic look at college life, the new found freedoms and pressures from all around. Her tale is a fresh take on time travel and soul mates and doesn’t rush into the relationship, but lets it slowly bloom and grow throughout each page. Loved the concept, loved all of the supporting characters, who truly added charm, intrigue and life to this tale. Seth is a little mysterious as he dodges questions about his past, but he wears his heart on his sleeve and shows all the signs of a young man in love.
The only problem I had was with Mari, herself. She comes across as an overachiever who MUST excel while complaining about the shortcomings of others, as she reaffirms her athletic abilities and her academic prowess, over and over to one and all. For such a young person she appears very cynical, hard, distrusting and self-important. As a role model, Mari leaves much to be desired. For me, she stole the sparkle of this otherwise fantastic read. Ms. McMichael has a truly wonderful gift of storytelling and creating a perfect flow,her heroine was just too negative for me. 3.5 Stars
I received this copy from Lexia Press in exchange for my honest review.
The Chalcedony Chronicles - Book 1
Publication Date: January 9, 2014
Publisher: Lexia Press
ISBN: 9780989121866
Genre: YA Paranormal Fantasy
Print Length: 237 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Carnelian by B. Kristin McMichael tells a fascinating tale of one cynical college freshman who fights the attraction to one of the college’s biggest players refusing to be another notch on his belt. Ms. McMichael has created a very realistic look at college life, the new found freedoms and pressures from all around. Her tale is a fresh take on time travel and soul mates and doesn’t rush into the relationship, but lets it slowly bloom and grow throughout each page. Loved the concept, loved all of the supporting characters, who truly added charm, intrigue and life to this tale. Seth is a little mysterious as he dodges questions about his past, but he wears his heart on his sleeve and shows all the signs of a young man in love.
The only problem I had was with Mari, herself. She comes across as an overachiever who MUST excel while complaining about the shortcomings of others, as she reaffirms her athletic abilities and her academic prowess, over and over to one and all. For such a young person she appears very cynical, hard, distrusting and self-important. As a role model, Mari leaves much to be desired. For me, she stole the sparkle of this otherwise fantastic read. Ms. McMichael has a truly wonderful gift of storytelling and creating a perfect flow,her heroine was just too negative for me. 3.5 Stars
I received this copy from Lexia Press in exchange for my honest review.
The Chalcedony Chronicles - Book 1
Publication Date: January 9, 2014
Publisher: Lexia Press
ISBN: 9780989121866
Genre: YA Paranormal Fantasy
Print Length: 237 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
June 28, 2018
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway forever ago and never updated with my thoughts.
Something that stuck out and hindered my enjoyment was the superfluous repetition of information. I had kinda forgotten about that aspect until I was browsing some other reviews to help me remember a bit of the plot I had forgotten, then when I read another review commenting on it, I thought, "Hm, yeah, that was a difficult aspect to get over." It was almost as if the writer did not trust the reader to remember what was going on and thought it a good idea to give constant reminders. There isn't a reason for this to happen and lends to the wordiness of a book. I hate to feed into the stereotype, but this book is a prime example of what a lot of people expect with indie books, because this book was not edited well and it could have used a few more rounds of editing/revision. (I don't believe this about indie books, but I have been involved with numerous conversations with people about it trying to dispel the belief).
Like I said, the concept of the story was interesting and I was holding out with the hope that something would WOW me, but it just didn't happen. Like I also mentioned earlier, I had to refresh my memory on a couple things that happened, so it didn't stick with me long-term--I think that is also an indicator. It is simply a meh-ly written book with a meh plot. Highly predictable, a story we have seen before but without a unique spin to make it its own standout book.
I suggest if you are interested in giving it a try, go for it. There are times where I'm hyper critical, especially when in certain moods. This book just didn't do it for me.
Happy reading, y'all!
p.s. I suggest not waiting a year+ to write a review. A lot is forgotten between then and now. XD Hence my shorter review.
Something that stuck out and hindered my enjoyment was the superfluous repetition of information. I had kinda forgotten about that aspect until I was browsing some other reviews to help me remember a bit of the plot I had forgotten, then when I read another review commenting on it, I thought, "Hm, yeah, that was a difficult aspect to get over." It was almost as if the writer did not trust the reader to remember what was going on and thought it a good idea to give constant reminders. There isn't a reason for this to happen and lends to the wordiness of a book. I hate to feed into the stereotype, but this book is a prime example of what a lot of people expect with indie books, because this book was not edited well and it could have used a few more rounds of editing/revision. (I don't believe this about indie books, but I have been involved with numerous conversations with people about it trying to dispel the belief).
Like I said, the concept of the story was interesting and I was holding out with the hope that something would WOW me, but it just didn't happen. Like I also mentioned earlier, I had to refresh my memory on a couple things that happened, so it didn't stick with me long-term--I think that is also an indicator. It is simply a meh-ly written book with a meh plot. Highly predictable, a story we have seen before but without a unique spin to make it its own standout book.
I suggest if you are interested in giving it a try, go for it. There are times where I'm hyper critical, especially when in certain moods. This book just didn't do it for me.
Happy reading, y'all!
p.s. I suggest not waiting a year+ to write a review. A lot is forgotten between then and now. XD Hence my shorter review.
March 21, 2016
I received this book for free from Goodreads First Reads in exchange for an honest review.
This is going to be brutal.
Before I even begin on the actual story, let's talk about the grammar. There are many, many mistakes throughout the book, including- but not limited to- typos. I can forgive one or two mistakes, but an editor would have been beneficial to this book.
To point out some of the more obvious flaws:
Page 68, "Sim led the way to the second pool and the only course I: the log run."
There is an abandoned "I". Okay, I can understand that, backspacing can sometimes leave things. That's fine.
Page 75, "... always cheering and slapping each other like guys' guys..."
I have yet to discover what a guys' guy is.
Page 77, "I sat down across from him watched him pull out the food."
The "and" is missing from this sentence.
Such errors are scattered about the book, and I didn't bother with trying to remember them all, but there was one instance where the narrative switched tense mid-sentence, which was kind of distracting.
The writing style was... OK. The descriptions were lacking, and character introductions were awkward.What does Miller look like? Who knows!
(And that's another thing- Miller is gay. I don't agree with homosexuality. Plus, he was just plain irritating.)
The characters were flat, and typical.(Ty was the only one I liked, and even he was stereotyped.)
And on a side note, it seemed like the plot was hardly mentioned, at all, whatsoever; and it was a bit disappointing that the romance was established so quickly (like most teen romance novels).
Anyway; The cover is beautiful, and I really should have known better. Don't judge a book by its cover.
The plot was interesting, especially since I love time travel and ancient Egypt, and getting two in one was pretty exciting.
I wish I could say that the story was good, but unfortunately, short of a total re-write, I don't see that happening.
Actual storyline: Mari goes to college, and on the first day a hot guy literally falls into her lap. She overhears him talking to his friends/brothers about his past 23 girlfriends, and spends the rest of the story whining about how she "WILL NOT BE NUMBER TWENTY-FOUR".
The entire storyline revolves around Seth (Mr. Hot-Guy), chasing Mari as she internally monologues about how her last boyfriend hurt her, without ever telling us what went down. Soon, after a ton of drama, they get together. Surprise! Anyway, there are cuddles and smooches, and later we learn that Seth is really Seti, and he's from ancient Egypt, sent to the 21st century by a goddess to find and woo Mari. Mission accomplished.
But the poor couple are not destined to be!Although, I'm pretty sure the goddess said that they were? But whatever, it's your story.
Also, Mari has the IQ of a parsnip.
But yeah, what I'm getting at is that the concept is intriguing, but the story itself is... not.
Before I even begin on the actual story, let's talk about the grammar. There are many, many mistakes throughout the book, including- but not limited to- typos. I can forgive one or two mistakes, but an editor would have been beneficial to this book.
To point out some of the more obvious flaws:
Page 68, "Sim led the way to the second pool and the only course I: the log run."
There is an abandoned "I". Okay, I can understand that, backspacing can sometimes leave things. That's fine.
Page 75, "... always cheering and slapping each other like guys' guys..."
I have yet to discover what a guys' guy is.
Page 77, "I sat down across from him watched him pull out the food."
The "and" is missing from this sentence.
Such errors are scattered about the book, and I didn't bother with trying to remember them all, but there was one instance where the narrative switched tense mid-sentence, which was kind of distracting.
The writing style was... OK. The descriptions were lacking, and character introductions were awkward.
(And that's another thing- Miller is gay. I don't agree with homosexuality. Plus, he was just plain irritating.)
The characters were flat, and typical.
And on a side note, it seemed like the plot was hardly mentioned, at all, whatsoever; and it was a bit disappointing that the romance was established so quickly (like most teen romance novels).
Anyway; The cover is beautiful, and I really should have known better. Don't judge a book by its cover.
The plot was interesting, especially since I love time travel and ancient Egypt, and getting two in one was pretty exciting.
I wish I could say that the story was good, but unfortunately, short of a total re-write, I don't see that happening.
Actual storyline: Mari goes to college, and on the first day a hot guy literally falls into her lap. She overhears him talking to his friends/brothers about his past 23 girlfriends, and spends the rest of the story whining about how she "WILL NOT BE NUMBER TWENTY-FOUR".
The entire storyline revolves around Seth (Mr. Hot-Guy), chasing Mari as she internally monologues about how her last boyfriend hurt her, without ever telling us what went down. Soon, after a ton of drama, they get together. Surprise! Anyway, there are cuddles and smooches, and later we learn that Seth is really Seti, and he's from ancient Egypt, sent to the 21st century by a goddess to find and woo Mari. Mission accomplished.
But the poor couple are not destined to be!
Also, Mari has the IQ of a parsnip.
But yeah, what I'm getting at is that the concept is intriguing, but the story itself is... not.
June 3, 2014
**** Review Originally Posted at
Pink Fluffy Hearts: Diary of a Coffee Addict ****
I knew that I would end up liking "Carnelian" when I first signed up to do a review for it, but I had no idea how much I would come to love the book. It was one of those books that instantly hooked me in and I didn't want to put it down until it was finished. It only took me a little over a day to finish (it would have been less if I didn't have to go and do that stupid thing called "work"), and I'm already excitedly anticipating book two.
Our book starts with the main character, Mari, starting her first day of her first year of college. She's on her own in a new place, and not even her mother is there to make sure she's settled (her mother and grandfather that they live with were called away on business). Mari is sitting outside reading a book, when an attractive guy literally falls into her lap, since he fell asleep and slumped over into her personal space. She carefully eases herself away, but that isn't the last time she sees or deals with Mr. Narcolepsy.
The sleeping hottie turns out to be our lead male character, Seth. And right from the beginning, he is convinced that Mari is the right one for him. One of the big things that I liked about this book was that Mari didn't automatically swoon for Seth. Yes, she has eyes and is the first to admit that he is good looking, but she doesn't want to end up as just another notch on a bedpost. Because of a conversation she accidently overheard, Mari's first impression of Seth is that he's a player and she's reluctant to let anything happen there.
Mari's reluctance was a great thing for me. In so many YA books, the girl automatically falls for the good looking, mysterious guy at school, whether she knows him or not. However, in "Carnelian" Mari is given the opportunity to get to know Seth as a friend and as a person instead of just being, ‘Yeah, I love him, he's so pretty’. I liked it, and believe that their getting to know each other gave some needed depth to the characters.
Another thing that sets "Carnelian" apart from other books is the supernatural element that is involved. Instead of being a vampire or a werewolf or witch, Seth is actually from another time. He and his brothers time traveled to Mari's world, and that's what makes them so different. The time traveling thing was something that's not overplayed in YA Paranormal Romance and it proved to be an interesting read.
One thing that was kind of weird and seemed off in the story was the game that the college was playing called CRUSH.
There were a few scenes of Mari and her friends doing the different tasks, but they didn't do much to push the overall story forward. As a result, they just seemed out of place. Even though there was some cute interaction between Mari and Seth during the CRUSH events, I think that the story wouldn't actually lose anything if those scenes were cut.
Even though there were some minor flaws, overall, I really enjoyed reading "Carnelian". The characters were likable (especially Seth's brother, Ty who's just one of the most loveable people ever), and the story was interesting and a new change of pace to read. I would definitely recommend it.
Pink Fluffy Hearts: Diary of a Coffee Addict ****
I knew that I would end up liking "Carnelian" when I first signed up to do a review for it, but I had no idea how much I would come to love the book. It was one of those books that instantly hooked me in and I didn't want to put it down until it was finished. It only took me a little over a day to finish (it would have been less if I didn't have to go and do that stupid thing called "work"), and I'm already excitedly anticipating book two.
Our book starts with the main character, Mari, starting her first day of her first year of college. She's on her own in a new place, and not even her mother is there to make sure she's settled (her mother and grandfather that they live with were called away on business). Mari is sitting outside reading a book, when an attractive guy literally falls into her lap, since he fell asleep and slumped over into her personal space. She carefully eases herself away, but that isn't the last time she sees or deals with Mr. Narcolepsy.
The sleeping hottie turns out to be our lead male character, Seth. And right from the beginning, he is convinced that Mari is the right one for him. One of the big things that I liked about this book was that Mari didn't automatically swoon for Seth. Yes, she has eyes and is the first to admit that he is good looking, but she doesn't want to end up as just another notch on a bedpost. Because of a conversation she accidently overheard, Mari's first impression of Seth is that he's a player and she's reluctant to let anything happen there.
Mari's reluctance was a great thing for me. In so many YA books, the girl automatically falls for the good looking, mysterious guy at school, whether she knows him or not. However, in "Carnelian" Mari is given the opportunity to get to know Seth as a friend and as a person instead of just being, ‘Yeah, I love him, he's so pretty’. I liked it, and believe that their getting to know each other gave some needed depth to the characters.
Another thing that sets "Carnelian" apart from other books is the supernatural element that is involved. Instead of being a vampire or a werewolf or witch, Seth is actually from another time. He and his brothers time traveled to Mari's world, and that's what makes them so different. The time traveling thing was something that's not overplayed in YA Paranormal Romance and it proved to be an interesting read.
One thing that was kind of weird and seemed off in the story was the game that the college was playing called CRUSH.
There were a few scenes of Mari and her friends doing the different tasks, but they didn't do much to push the overall story forward. As a result, they just seemed out of place. Even though there was some cute interaction between Mari and Seth during the CRUSH events, I think that the story wouldn't actually lose anything if those scenes were cut.
Even though there were some minor flaws, overall, I really enjoyed reading "Carnelian". The characters were likable (especially Seth's brother, Ty who's just one of the most loveable people ever), and the story was interesting and a new change of pace to read. I would definitely recommend it.
August 9, 2015
*I received a copy of this book for free from the author through the Never Too Old For Y.A. & N.A. Books Group. This in no way effect my final review of this book.*
A super fast read or maybe it just seemed that way because I was into the story. Took me less than a day reading this book on and off to finish.
The prologue starts off clearly sometime in the past. All you know is a young man and his two companions are desperately praying to any god they can think of to help them.
Once the first chapter starts you are in now times and following Mari's POV as she heads off to college. Her grandfather is big in the antiques business and is always going off places on trips to check them out. Unfortunately for Mari that means settling in at college alone as her grandfather and her mom had to turn back before they even made it to college. From there you get into the usual stuff that comes with starting college, meeting you new roommate, getting the lay of the land, seemly being stalked by the rich, hot quarterback, Seth? Wait what? That totally did not happen to me during my college experience. Of course Mari has been through this type of thing in high school and it did not work out well. She vows to never date a player again. Unfortunately (or maybe fortunately?) He seems pretty persistent. Mari hits is off with one of Seth's friends. Mari herself is even having trouble staying away as she seems drawn to him. What follows is a seemly normal contemporary college romance type of story, but there is more to it. You see Seth is really that guy we met at the beginning of the book (I'm not really giving anything away here as this is stated in the description). Apparently his prayers were answered by one of the gods and he was sent into the future to find Mari, only he didn't know it was her specifically. She is the key to helping him in the past, but how? Their stories start to interweave more deeply from there and, of course, when things really start to get interesting, the story ends! I can't wait to see where the story goes!
I liked the characters in this book. I liked the general story idea. I was okay with the pacing. It turned out to be the perfect book to read at the time I read it. I found it to be a really good one too as I finished this story a few days ago and have read a few since. I know I got a little behind on the writing of actual reviews when I was a little under the weather.
I would possibly read this book again and I would definitely recommend it to a friend. As this is the second series I have checked out by this author and liked, I also plan to keep an eye out for future books.
4.5 Stars Raised Up from 4 because the story has stuck with me (in a good way).
A super fast read or maybe it just seemed that way because I was into the story. Took me less than a day reading this book on and off to finish.
The prologue starts off clearly sometime in the past. All you know is a young man and his two companions are desperately praying to any god they can think of to help them.
Once the first chapter starts you are in now times and following Mari's POV as she heads off to college. Her grandfather is big in the antiques business and is always going off places on trips to check them out. Unfortunately for Mari that means settling in at college alone as her grandfather and her mom had to turn back before they even made it to college. From there you get into the usual stuff that comes with starting college, meeting you new roommate, getting the lay of the land, seemly being stalked by the rich, hot quarterback, Seth? Wait what? That totally did not happen to me during my college experience. Of course Mari has been through this type of thing in high school and it did not work out well. She vows to never date a player again. Unfortunately (or maybe fortunately?) He seems pretty persistent. Mari hits is off with one of Seth's friends. Mari herself is even having trouble staying away as she seems drawn to him. What follows is a seemly normal contemporary college romance type of story, but there is more to it. You see Seth is really that guy we met at the beginning of the book (I'm not really giving anything away here as this is stated in the description). Apparently his prayers were answered by one of the gods and he was sent into the future to find Mari, only he didn't know it was her specifically. She is the key to helping him in the past, but how? Their stories start to interweave more deeply from there and, of course, when things really start to get interesting, the story ends! I can't wait to see where the story goes!
I liked the characters in this book. I liked the general story idea. I was okay with the pacing. It turned out to be the perfect book to read at the time I read it. I found it to be a really good one too as I finished this story a few days ago and have read a few since. I know I got a little behind on the writing of actual reviews when I was a little under the weather.
I would possibly read this book again and I would definitely recommend it to a friend. As this is the second series I have checked out by this author and liked, I also plan to keep an eye out for future books.
4.5 Stars Raised Up from 4 because the story has stuck with me (in a good way).
January 27, 2014
5 stars
I'm just a die hard fan of time traveling and not only that it involves Egypt. I rarely find books whose settings are in Egypt.
At first, I didn't know that it involved time traveling and Egypt. The beginning started out as something regular and the meeting of Mari and Seth was quite different. A guy falling asleep in her lap. The attraction was there for Mari and it happened to Seth afterwards. Their relationship started as slow first because Seth was known as a player (but due to reasons) and Mari after having a bad relationship in high school was cautious of Seth. But as she hanged out with Seth she realizes there is more to Seth than just his image. She then also realized there is more to Seth especially when she learned of their nonexistent background plus an incident that happened which made Mari realized that Seth has a bigger secret and when she finds out it is something she never imagined.
The characters were very likeable instantly. I like Mari's strong character and her stubbornness is just right that it doesn't make her character annoying. Her love for Seth is strong she would do anything to find and be with him even if it means traveling back to the past.
Seth is just amazing. He is very sweet but has a strong character too. I loved that he loves Mari to the point he doesn't want to break her heart especially when he needs to go back and that his father has plans for him. His letter for Mari was very sweet and touching that I too cried with Mari.
Did I mention the side characters were amazing as well. Ty and Dee showed a strong bond of friendship with Seth and that they will always be there to support him. Sim's personality may be opposite of Mari but they fit well together. Sim is supportive as well and I like how she encourages more like stubbornly let Mari be involved in having a joyful experience of life.
I'm just sad to say that it took near the ending for the story to get to the point and that when it became more interesting it just ended. I also should have take heed of the warning of the author because when I read the preview of book 2 I was like nooooo!!!!
I can't wait for Book 2 and read what happens next.
I received a copy thanks to Never Too Old For Y.A. & N.A. Books
I'm just a die hard fan of time traveling and not only that it involves Egypt. I rarely find books whose settings are in Egypt.
At first, I didn't know that it involved time traveling and Egypt. The beginning started out as something regular and the meeting of Mari and Seth was quite different. A guy falling asleep in her lap. The attraction was there for Mari and it happened to Seth afterwards. Their relationship started as slow first because Seth was known as a player (but due to reasons) and Mari after having a bad relationship in high school was cautious of Seth. But as she hanged out with Seth she realizes there is more to Seth than just his image. She then also realized there is more to Seth especially when she learned of their nonexistent background plus an incident that happened which made Mari realized that Seth has a bigger secret and when she finds out it is something she never imagined.
The characters were very likeable instantly. I like Mari's strong character and her stubbornness is just right that it doesn't make her character annoying. Her love for Seth is strong she would do anything to find and be with him even if it means traveling back to the past.
Seth is just amazing. He is very sweet but has a strong character too. I loved that he loves Mari to the point he doesn't want to break her heart especially when he needs to go back and that his father has plans for him. His letter for Mari was very sweet and touching that I too cried with Mari.
Did I mention the side characters were amazing as well. Ty and Dee showed a strong bond of friendship with Seth and that they will always be there to support him. Sim's personality may be opposite of Mari but they fit well together. Sim is supportive as well and I like how she encourages more like stubbornly let Mari be involved in having a joyful experience of life.
I'm just sad to say that it took near the ending for the story to get to the point and that when it became more interesting it just ended. I also should have take heed of the warning of the author because when I read the preview of book 2 I was like nooooo!!!!
I can't wait for Book 2 and read what happens next.
I received a copy thanks to Never Too Old For Y.A. & N.A. Books
July 26, 2016
Definitely a wow book. I thought after reading the blurb about this book it was going to follow some of the same story lines that come with new adult paranormal books. But it didn't at all. And I FREAKIN LOVE it!!!!!!
Now those of you who think they know exactly what this book is about and just want to skip over it please don't. It really is an amazing start to a series. You can expect certain things like a mild cliffhanger (unless you ignore her warning when she tells you to not to read the first 2 chapters of the next installment, which I did and boy do I wish I didn't. That turned into a major cliffhanger!!!!), detailed intros to all the characters that takes up a majority of the first half of the book, and one sexy ass guy. But one you get the jist of everybody in the book the story takes off and makes you glued, needing to know what the hell is going to happen.
Another pro of this book is it doesn't have a whiney, needy, stalkerish, love at first sight heroine. She was actually intelligent and tries to kick ass if she needs to. Thank God!!!!! I can't stand helpless girls that need the boys to do everything in books. It's almost an insult to females everywhere that in order to catch a sexy Seth from the past you have to have him do everything. Don't worry though this girl,Mari, is definitely not like that.
The only thing bad I'd have to say about this book is that it took a while for the main story line to get started. Not that I didn't love what happened in the mean time, it's just the whole being in the wrong time part was a page turner and it ended shortly after it started. But I'll chop that up to being that this is a series of books and being the first book it had alot to describe before going into the good part.
All in all though loved the start and can't wait for so much more!!!!
Now those of you who think they know exactly what this book is about and just want to skip over it please don't. It really is an amazing start to a series. You can expect certain things like a mild cliffhanger (unless you ignore her warning when she tells you to not to read the first 2 chapters of the next installment, which I did and boy do I wish I didn't. That turned into a major cliffhanger!!!!), detailed intros to all the characters that takes up a majority of the first half of the book, and one sexy ass guy. But one you get the jist of everybody in the book the story takes off and makes you glued, needing to know what the hell is going to happen.
Another pro of this book is it doesn't have a whiney, needy, stalkerish, love at first sight heroine. She was actually intelligent and tries to kick ass if she needs to. Thank God!!!!! I can't stand helpless girls that need the boys to do everything in books. It's almost an insult to females everywhere that in order to catch a sexy Seth from the past you have to have him do everything. Don't worry though this girl,Mari, is definitely not like that.
The only thing bad I'd have to say about this book is that it took a while for the main story line to get started. Not that I didn't love what happened in the mean time, it's just the whole being in the wrong time part was a page turner and it ended shortly after it started. But I'll chop that up to being that this is a series of books and being the first book it had alot to describe before going into the good part.
All in all though loved the start and can't wait for so much more!!!!
February 3, 2014
I loved this book.
The author writes in a beautiful way that entraps you in the story so much that you feel a part of this world.
I loved the relationship developing between Mari and Seth. To me the relationship developed well at an even pace with the expected ups and downs.
I loved the characters in this book. Seth Ty and Dee had distinct characters and I loved the friendship they had. Mari and her best girl friend Sim. I liked how the relationship grew between Mari and Sim. I particularly loved how Seth had to fight hard to win Mari and that he never gave up and becomes her Knight in shining armour at one stage.
I liked the idea of time travel and the idea the author had of making the memories of those who travelled disappear when they returned to their own time except for those closely assciated with them.
Very clever concept and not your average story line. It was much better than average.
After reading this story I feel quite lost and really need the next book.
This has to be one of my very favorite books. Thank you!
The author writes in a beautiful way that entraps you in the story so much that you feel a part of this world.
I loved the relationship developing between Mari and Seth. To me the relationship developed well at an even pace with the expected ups and downs.
I loved the characters in this book. Seth Ty and Dee had distinct characters and I loved the friendship they had. Mari and her best girl friend Sim. I liked how the relationship grew between Mari and Sim. I particularly loved how Seth had to fight hard to win Mari and that he never gave up and becomes her Knight in shining armour at one stage.
I liked the idea of time travel and the idea the author had of making the memories of those who travelled disappear when they returned to their own time except for those closely assciated with them.
Very clever concept and not your average story line. It was much better than average.
After reading this story I feel quite lost and really need the next book.
This has to be one of my very favorite books. Thank you!
March 20, 2014
Given ARC copy in exchange for a honest review....
I seriously LOVED this story,especially for it being a time travel type as I usually don't read them because I get confused, lol...
I found myself hooked from the beginning all the way through the end...
I won't go into many details about the story as I hate to think of spoilers so I'll put it this way:
It was a well written story with some pretty strong characters. At times I did think Sim was going to be play a part in the time travel role. I think it had a great story line to where I didn't even find myself confused when it came to the time travel explanations. I think it was because it kept it more in our time, till the end. :)
I am really looking forward to reading book 2 to find out where they end up, I didn't want to read the sneak peak!
GREAT READ!
I seriously LOVED this story,especially for it being a time travel type as I usually don't read them because I get confused, lol...
I found myself hooked from the beginning all the way through the end...
I won't go into many details about the story as I hate to think of spoilers so I'll put it this way:
It was a well written story with some pretty strong characters. At times I did think Sim was going to be play a part in the time travel role. I think it had a great story line to where I didn't even find myself confused when it came to the time travel explanations. I think it was because it kept it more in our time, till the end. :)
I am really looking forward to reading book 2 to find out where they end up, I didn't want to read the sneak peak!
GREAT READ!
May 5, 2014
“If I took you back, I’d be condemning you to that life. You deserve more.”
“Seth, a life with you’d be all I needed. The rest I can deal with then. I’m tougher than I look.”
“And more delicate than you’ll ever admit”
I’d just like to profess my undying love for B. Kristin McMichael. I love love love love your words, your stories, and your absolute kindness. Seriously, B. Kristin is just a permanent staple of my book life. I’ve read each of her works, and loved every single one of them. I get so excited when I find out she’s releasing a new book that I literally jump up and down squee’ing. Now I love a lot of authors, because their words can change my world, but B. Kristin has something really special. I hope to be able to keep telling her this as she continues to write, because as long as she is writing, I will be reading. I have to admit, not too many YA authors can hold my interest anymore. It’s not their fault either, but B. Kristin is an author that will stand out in my mind forever. Never will I hesitate to read a work of art from her.
Carnelian is more of a New Adult book rather than a YA book. The main characters of Seth and Mari are on a journey to a maximum collision with both their worlds. Mari went to college hoping to start over. Mari does pretty well on her own until she catches the eye of Seth. Mari has heard stories of Seth’s conquests but can’t help but be attracted to the obnoxiously exotic superstar football player. Mari makes it very clear that she will not become his next conquest when Seth practically claims her as his. The story progresses into a beautiful and dynamic love story that was literally meant to be.
Mari is the epitome of beauty, even though she doesn’t see it for herself. She is strong, intelligent, and skeptical. This stunning red head turns heads everywhere she goes and even catches the hatred from the “popular” crowd at the college. Mari actually becomes friends with Seth’s brother Ty, who she tries to get to save her from his brother Seth’s conquests. To no avail will Seth stop. Seth is determined that he has found the one reason that he was brought into this world… and it’s Mari. Seth has the charm, looks, and soul to make anyone swoon. I absolutely loved the characters and the growth of them. Ty and Sim (Mari’s room-mate and best friend) are the most adorable secondary characters and are amazingly supporting tributes to the story.
Carnelian will keep you wanting more from the beginning to the end. I could not put this down, you simply get entranced and brought into this world that you just don’t want to be released from. I’m not a big fan of time-travel novels, since I’ll admit it… I tend to get confused. In no way was I ever confused with this novel, and it honestly didn’t even real feel all that “time-travelery”. For most of the story you’re in the here and now, but get short throw backs of historic times. The destiny of the two main characters is absolutely enchanting.
One again, B. Kristin McMichael has created a masterpiece. I’m always left feeling refreshed from the everyday normal reads. With Carnelian you’re left wanting more, but you’re satisfied with where it leaves off. I absolutely can’t wait until the next installment of this series, and hope it comes sooner than later! I could go on and on bout how much I loved this book, but I really think you should just get to reading it!
As always, B. Kristin – I adore you. Your words are spectacular and always leave me speechless.
“Seth, a life with you’d be all I needed. The rest I can deal with then. I’m tougher than I look.”
“And more delicate than you’ll ever admit”
I’d just like to profess my undying love for B. Kristin McMichael. I love love love love your words, your stories, and your absolute kindness. Seriously, B. Kristin is just a permanent staple of my book life. I’ve read each of her works, and loved every single one of them. I get so excited when I find out she’s releasing a new book that I literally jump up and down squee’ing. Now I love a lot of authors, because their words can change my world, but B. Kristin has something really special. I hope to be able to keep telling her this as she continues to write, because as long as she is writing, I will be reading. I have to admit, not too many YA authors can hold my interest anymore. It’s not their fault either, but B. Kristin is an author that will stand out in my mind forever. Never will I hesitate to read a work of art from her.
Carnelian is more of a New Adult book rather than a YA book. The main characters of Seth and Mari are on a journey to a maximum collision with both their worlds. Mari went to college hoping to start over. Mari does pretty well on her own until she catches the eye of Seth. Mari has heard stories of Seth’s conquests but can’t help but be attracted to the obnoxiously exotic superstar football player. Mari makes it very clear that she will not become his next conquest when Seth practically claims her as his. The story progresses into a beautiful and dynamic love story that was literally meant to be.
Mari is the epitome of beauty, even though she doesn’t see it for herself. She is strong, intelligent, and skeptical. This stunning red head turns heads everywhere she goes and even catches the hatred from the “popular” crowd at the college. Mari actually becomes friends with Seth’s brother Ty, who she tries to get to save her from his brother Seth’s conquests. To no avail will Seth stop. Seth is determined that he has found the one reason that he was brought into this world… and it’s Mari. Seth has the charm, looks, and soul to make anyone swoon. I absolutely loved the characters and the growth of them. Ty and Sim (Mari’s room-mate and best friend) are the most adorable secondary characters and are amazingly supporting tributes to the story.
Carnelian will keep you wanting more from the beginning to the end. I could not put this down, you simply get entranced and brought into this world that you just don’t want to be released from. I’m not a big fan of time-travel novels, since I’ll admit it… I tend to get confused. In no way was I ever confused with this novel, and it honestly didn’t even real feel all that “time-travelery”. For most of the story you’re in the here and now, but get short throw backs of historic times. The destiny of the two main characters is absolutely enchanting.
One again, B. Kristin McMichael has created a masterpiece. I’m always left feeling refreshed from the everyday normal reads. With Carnelian you’re left wanting more, but you’re satisfied with where it leaves off. I absolutely can’t wait until the next installment of this series, and hope it comes sooner than later! I could go on and on bout how much I loved this book, but I really think you should just get to reading it!
As always, B. Kristin – I adore you. Your words are spectacular and always leave me speechless.
June 17, 2014
This was such an interesting read. I have to admit at the beginning I wasn't sure I was going to like this one. It was a bit slow, but man oh man, am I glad I stayed with it.
I love past and present mixing, and coming together. It always makes things so very interesting. Seth and his "brothers" are hot shots on campus, and Seth has decided he has an eye for Mari. Mari has decided she is not getting involved again, with someone who isn't serious. Seth has a players reputation, and she is not going for it.
Well, Seth has a story to tell. There is far more to this handsome, jock, than meets the eye. He and his brothers are always in the right place at the right time, and always seem to be saving Mari. Mari, finally gets some answers, and lets her walls fall down and finds out what a great guy Seth is. She is hooked, and then her world changes.
I enjoyed the story going from present to past. I really liked how things connected in the past, and came back to the present. There is so much to this story.
The past has adventure, mystery, an ancient Princess, a Gatekeeper, and Soldiers. The present, hosts the Gatekeeper, an ancient Princess and Soldiers. It is so fantastic how they come together.
I was at an appointment when I finished this book, and let out an audible "uuuhhhhh". It so cannot end the way it ended. I need the next book like NOW. hehehe. This is going to be a great series, and this book was a great opener.
I love past and present mixing, and coming together. It always makes things so very interesting. Seth and his "brothers" are hot shots on campus, and Seth has decided he has an eye for Mari. Mari has decided she is not getting involved again, with someone who isn't serious. Seth has a players reputation, and she is not going for it.
Well, Seth has a story to tell. There is far more to this handsome, jock, than meets the eye. He and his brothers are always in the right place at the right time, and always seem to be saving Mari. Mari, finally gets some answers, and lets her walls fall down and finds out what a great guy Seth is. She is hooked, and then her world changes.
I enjoyed the story going from present to past. I really liked how things connected in the past, and came back to the present. There is so much to this story.
The past has adventure, mystery, an ancient Princess, a Gatekeeper, and Soldiers. The present, hosts the Gatekeeper, an ancient Princess and Soldiers. It is so fantastic how they come together.
I was at an appointment when I finished this book, and let out an audible "uuuhhhhh". It so cannot end the way it ended. I need the next book like NOW. hehehe. This is going to be a great series, and this book was a great opener.
January 25, 2014
I was giving this book free from LoP in return for a honest review:
This was a extraordinary novel, it had all the components of a great story. The suspense, romance, and overall genius of the plot just blew me away. I give this book a 4.5 because everything from the writing to the originality was superior! Yet I felt there was some lacking in the relationship, the "love" that the main character said she felt just didn't feel authentic. Though I love their witty, and adorable conversations, I really wish there was more. But with that said this was a overall AWESOME book. You will be sure to love it!! But enough of what I think, try it out for yourself, I promise you will fall in love with this story, it characters, and the author! I really cannot wait to read the next book in this series I truly liked this book
This was a extraordinary novel, it had all the components of a great story. The suspense, romance, and overall genius of the plot just blew me away. I give this book a 4.5 because everything from the writing to the originality was superior! Yet I felt there was some lacking in the relationship, the "love" that the main character said she felt just didn't feel authentic. Though I love their witty, and adorable conversations, I really wish there was more. But with that said this was a overall AWESOME book. You will be sure to love it!! But enough of what I think, try it out for yourself, I promise you will fall in love with this story, it characters, and the author! I really cannot wait to read the next book in this series I truly liked this book
May 28, 2014
I received a free e-copy of this book by the author in exchange of an honest review.
I have so many thoughts about this book I can't even begin to process them all!
First off, this story was AMAZING!!!!! I had so many expectations for this book and I'm happy to say it didn't let me down.
Carnelian is a book full of romance, time-travel, secrets, mind-blowing moments and unexpected twists!
I read this book as slowly as I could because I just didn't want it to end! I found myself hooked since chapter one and it was something I just wanted to stay with as long as I could.
I LOVED THE STORY!
I really liked the characters.
But most of all, I LOVED SETH SANGRE!
I won't be calm until I read Chrysoprase (book #2) because this cliffhanger just left me wanting for a whole lot more and oh God! This author really knows what she's doing.
I LOVED IT.
I have so many thoughts about this book I can't even begin to process them all!
First off, this story was AMAZING!!!!! I had so many expectations for this book and I'm happy to say it didn't let me down.
Carnelian is a book full of romance, time-travel, secrets, mind-blowing moments and unexpected twists!
I read this book as slowly as I could because I just didn't want it to end! I found myself hooked since chapter one and it was something I just wanted to stay with as long as I could.
I LOVED THE STORY!
I really liked the characters.
But most of all, I LOVED SETH SANGRE!
I won't be calm until I read Chrysoprase (book #2) because this cliffhanger just left me wanting for a whole lot more and oh God! This author really knows what she's doing.
I LOVED IT.
May 17, 2014
*I was given this book from a goodreads club for a honest review*
So what I thought of this book, well I obviously LOVED it since I gave it a 5 stars. And seriously I loved it a lot. The book was very fast paced and everything was told and explained so well that I never had to stop and try to figure out what's the heck the author is talking about. This book was mostly about romance and fate and even though sometimes it was cheesy, that cheesy part turned adorable for me. As for the writing, it was pretty generic but the plot and the characters made up for it. I definitely recommend this book to those who love a quick and fun read about romance and friendship and time traveling. I definitely enjoyed this book much more than I thought I would and it definitely is a solid 5 stars in my opinion.
So what I thought of this book, well I obviously LOVED it since I gave it a 5 stars. And seriously I loved it a lot. The book was very fast paced and everything was told and explained so well that I never had to stop and try to figure out what's the heck the author is talking about. This book was mostly about romance and fate and even though sometimes it was cheesy, that cheesy part turned adorable for me. As for the writing, it was pretty generic but the plot and the characters made up for it. I definitely recommend this book to those who love a quick and fun read about romance and friendship and time traveling. I definitely enjoyed this book much more than I thought I would and it definitely is a solid 5 stars in my opinion.
June 25, 2014
Full review can be found at: http://thegirlbookaholic.blogspot.com...
Not vampires, aliens, werewolves, or mutants but something completely different!! Three time travelers aided by a Goddess in search of a girl who will help them save their warring nation!! Can you say super awesomely original!?!? Marcella and Seth's relationship starts out a little rocky. She doesn't want to be involved with him because she sees him as a player; however, this doesn't deter Seth. Seth starts out as the player like guy but he sooooo isn't like that! "You'll never be anything less than the love of my life."-Seth!! I absolutely loved the book because it had time travel, humor, romance, and magic!!!
Not vampires, aliens, werewolves, or mutants but something completely different!! Three time travelers aided by a Goddess in search of a girl who will help them save their warring nation!! Can you say super awesomely original!?!? Marcella and Seth's relationship starts out a little rocky. She doesn't want to be involved with him because she sees him as a player; however, this doesn't deter Seth. Seth starts out as the player like guy but he sooooo isn't like that! "You'll never be anything less than the love of my life."-Seth!! I absolutely loved the book because it had time travel, humor, romance, and magic!!!
March 19, 2014
I loved this book. Its a type of paranormal that I've never come across.
Mari and Seth meet at college where he hits on her and she turns him down. Actually she refers to him as a player, repeatly (almost to the point of annoying). Everytime he almosts wins her over his ex gets in the way.
When him and his 2 brothers save her one night she begins to realize that something isn't quite normal with them. The story that follows is amazing and original.
The ending is a little bit of a cliffhanger but it includes the first few pages of the sequel. Dont read them its a even big cliffhanger. The author even had warning but did I listen?
I was given an ecopy by the author in exchange for a honest review. Thank you.
Mari and Seth meet at college where he hits on her and she turns him down. Actually she refers to him as a player, repeatly (almost to the point of annoying). Everytime he almosts wins her over his ex gets in the way.
When him and his 2 brothers save her one night she begins to realize that something isn't quite normal with them. The story that follows is amazing and original.
The ending is a little bit of a cliffhanger but it includes the first few pages of the sequel. Dont read them its a even big cliffhanger. The author even had warning but did I listen?
I was given an ecopy by the author in exchange for a honest review. Thank you.
June 14, 2014
I have read and enjoyed other books by Kristin McMichael (Blue Eyes Trilogy and To Stand Beside Her) and have come to expect a fun and engaging romance. This one did not disappoint--it was everything I have come to expect from Kristin McMichael. One thing I loved about this book was that the heroine, Mari was no pushover. She had her own athletic skills and was not completely helpless, even if Seth, the main man, had to rescue her, once. It's a great story, starting with Mari going off to college and living away from her mom and grandfather for the first time. She meets Seth at school and something about him doesn't add up. Without spoilers, Mari is a fun and engaging heroine that I couldn't help but root for. If you want a fun, easy romance, this is the perfect book for you.
July 13, 2016
A sweet, lighthearted, well written, quick read about love and time travel. It is a touch sophmoric in that every obstacle works out just as desired through no real effort and the characters told us things rather than letting us actually feel them.. unfortunately...but I'm still looking forward to this summer so that I can read what happens next.
July 12, 2014
Loved this time traveling story. A bit slow in spots but I am eager to read the next book in the series. I received this book as a free read from Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
May 27, 2020
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy from the Author. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.Carnelian by B. Kristin McMichael is an excellent book about starting life at college with the touch of romance and time travel.
Will Seth and Mari be able to figure out a way to be together?
Marcella Navina
Marcella Navina is our main character and only point of view character. Mari, as she would instead be called, is going to college for her first year and is rather excited about it. She catches the eye, well more of the head, of the one and only Seth Sangre. He plays football and is the star quarterback. There is a lot that happens in this book, and one of them is the fact that Mari, as a character, grows. She does that by letting Seth get close to her, and Mari does that from how well she plays at CRUSH. A dorm building competition that brings normalcy to the story as a regular thing at that happens at some colleges the first semester.
I think in a different life we could be friends. We both love reading paranormal young adult books, and we are both morning people. Another thing that I like about Mari is that she knows what she doesn't want to happen again while her heart thinks otherwise. There isn't much that I don't like about her.
Seth Sangre
Even though the little bit of Seth that we see before we are in Mari's perspective is the short prologue at the beginning, Seth, after that point, is a sophomore in college and is helplessly trying to figure out who he is looking for to help him. At first, he seems like a player, but he isn't. Seth has also seen that he needs to go slow with Mari, which is something that I love about him doing. Seth and Mari are cute together, and I liked seeing their relationship blossom out of the friendship that they started. I just hope that good things can happen with these two.
What I like about Seth is that he wants to prove himself to Mari and make her see that he is right for her. Another that I like about Seth is how protective he is despite the time gap because there are so many reasons why but some of them contain spoilers, but he just doesn't want anything wrong to happen to her. There isn't much that I dislike about him either.
The Time Travel
The time travel part of the book is a big spoiler part, but you would never guess Mari's connection. I thought that I assumed right, but I was blown away by how wrong I was. Now I have more questions as to what will happen in the next book.
Five Stars
Carnelian by B. Kristin McMichael is the first book I have read by this fantastic author, and her writing style already hooks me. I think with this book, just having a first-person point of view and having that be Mari was a fantastic choice. The reason for that is because she is new to this and is maybe more connected to it then what both her and Seth think. I am now going to have to wait until September at the latest to pick this series back up. I am giving this book five stars and recommending it to anyone that wants to read it.
Other Books in the Series
Will Seth and Mari be able to figure out a way to be together?
Marcella Navina
Marcella Navina is our main character and only point of view character. Mari, as she would instead be called, is going to college for her first year and is rather excited about it. She catches the eye, well more of the head, of the one and only Seth Sangre. He plays football and is the star quarterback. There is a lot that happens in this book, and one of them is the fact that Mari, as a character, grows. She does that by letting Seth get close to her, and Mari does that from how well she plays at CRUSH. A dorm building competition that brings normalcy to the story as a regular thing at that happens at some colleges the first semester.
I think in a different life we could be friends. We both love reading paranormal young adult books, and we are both morning people. Another thing that I like about Mari is that she knows what she doesn't want to happen again while her heart thinks otherwise. There isn't much that I don't like about her.
Seth Sangre
Even though the little bit of Seth that we see before we are in Mari's perspective is the short prologue at the beginning, Seth, after that point, is a sophomore in college and is helplessly trying to figure out who he is looking for to help him. At first, he seems like a player, but he isn't. Seth has also seen that he needs to go slow with Mari, which is something that I love about him doing. Seth and Mari are cute together, and I liked seeing their relationship blossom out of the friendship that they started. I just hope that good things can happen with these two.
What I like about Seth is that he wants to prove himself to Mari and make her see that he is right for her. Another that I like about Seth is how protective he is despite the time gap because there are so many reasons why but some of them contain spoilers, but he just doesn't want anything wrong to happen to her. There isn't much that I dislike about him either.
The Time Travel The time travel part of the book is a big spoiler part, but you would never guess Mari's connection. I thought that I assumed right, but I was blown away by how wrong I was. Now I have more questions as to what will happen in the next book.
Five Stars
Carnelian by B. Kristin McMichael is the first book I have read by this fantastic author, and her writing style already hooks me. I think with this book, just having a first-person point of view and having that be Mari was a fantastic choice. The reason for that is because she is new to this and is maybe more connected to it then what both her and Seth think. I am now going to have to wait until September at the latest to pick this series back up. I am giving this book five stars and recommending it to anyone that wants to read it.
Other Books in the Series
Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of Carnelian by B. Kristin McMichael.
Until the next time,
Happy Reading!
This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
February 16, 2014
First and foremost let me begin by stating that I received a free copy of the book from the author in exchange for my honest review. Thank you
I really enjoy the story of Carnelian. The first thing that intrigued me about this book was the name, Carnelian. I briefly read the authors summary and decided that it would be an interesting read. I was hoping the author could deliver an exciting story, which she did. I know the storyline is similar to many other written since the beginning of time, boy meets girl – they fall in love – and face hardships to prove their love, however Kristin does an amazing job of making it fresh and endearing. Kristin makes you fall in love with Seth in the first few chapters and leaves you hoping for a happy ending. Mari is a strong minded person who refuses to be your stereotype college girl that falls in love with the hot quarterback. Is a great introduction to a great love story with a happy ending, I hope.
*******************Spoiler Warning***************************************
I usually start with the items of the book I love and then moved to the items I did not quite like. However with this book there are so few items didn’t like I decided to start with them.
I mainly didn’t like Mari’s treatment of Sim, she was supposed to be her best-friend and she left her to fend for herself with the “Barbies”. I know she was upset about the little time she had with Seth but that did not give her the right to behave like that. Also would have liked if the author provided us with little things that change as a result of Mari and Seth traveling through time. That’s pretty much the things I did not like, told you not many.
As to the things I really like, which are too many to list but I will try to summarize. I really enjoy how Kristin gave you small things, here and there but did not give away the ending. I really hate when you know what’s going to happen at the end of the book in chapter 2. I knew that Mari would be special, especially since her father was never in her life and her mother and grandfather had been so protective of her. So my thoughts were that her father must have been a time traveler, to find out it was her mother who had made that leap was exciting. I did always guess that her lineage would be link to the pharaohs. I can’t wait to find out who her father is or was. One of my favorite parts of the books was Seth’s introduction to Mari. It was so beautiful and simple. I would love if the author could provide Seth’s POV for their meeting. I want to know what he was feeling or thinking at that moment. And why oh why would he just fall asleep on her lap. I am also curious to find out about their future in the present time and what her mom will say when she finally meets Seth. She will most likely see his resemblance to the general she was escorted by all those years ago.
Awaiting the next book…. Great beginning
I really enjoy the story of Carnelian. The first thing that intrigued me about this book was the name, Carnelian. I briefly read the authors summary and decided that it would be an interesting read. I was hoping the author could deliver an exciting story, which she did. I know the storyline is similar to many other written since the beginning of time, boy meets girl – they fall in love – and face hardships to prove their love, however Kristin does an amazing job of making it fresh and endearing. Kristin makes you fall in love with Seth in the first few chapters and leaves you hoping for a happy ending. Mari is a strong minded person who refuses to be your stereotype college girl that falls in love with the hot quarterback. Is a great introduction to a great love story with a happy ending, I hope.
*******************Spoiler Warning***************************************
I usually start with the items of the book I love and then moved to the items I did not quite like. However with this book there are so few items didn’t like I decided to start with them.
I mainly didn’t like Mari’s treatment of Sim, she was supposed to be her best-friend and she left her to fend for herself with the “Barbies”. I know she was upset about the little time she had with Seth but that did not give her the right to behave like that. Also would have liked if the author provided us with little things that change as a result of Mari and Seth traveling through time. That’s pretty much the things I did not like, told you not many.
As to the things I really like, which are too many to list but I will try to summarize. I really enjoy how Kristin gave you small things, here and there but did not give away the ending. I really hate when you know what’s going to happen at the end of the book in chapter 2. I knew that Mari would be special, especially since her father was never in her life and her mother and grandfather had been so protective of her. So my thoughts were that her father must have been a time traveler, to find out it was her mother who had made that leap was exciting. I did always guess that her lineage would be link to the pharaohs. I can’t wait to find out who her father is or was. One of my favorite parts of the books was Seth’s introduction to Mari. It was so beautiful and simple. I would love if the author could provide Seth’s POV for their meeting. I want to know what he was feeling or thinking at that moment. And why oh why would he just fall asleep on her lap. I am also curious to find out about their future in the present time and what her mom will say when she finally meets Seth. She will most likely see his resemblance to the general she was escorted by all those years ago.
Awaiting the next book…. Great beginning
February 10, 2014
( Although I received this book for review my review is still 100% honest.)
When I read the synopsis for this book I was a little confused on weather I would like it or not. Turns out that I didn't like. I loved it ! I'm not a very big reader of "girl falling in love with a guy kind of story."This one had a really great twist to it, I found myself being rather curious to find out what was going to happen next. While this book has a lot of drama with-in it, it is well worth it due to the mystery within this read.
Our main character is a girl named Mari who is going off to college trying to get her next step in life started. All to quickly she catches the eye of the guy who all the girls want, star quarter back, Seth. She tries to avoid him as much as possible because he is a player who just wants her to be his number 24. I was very amused with her thinking through this book. I really like her character that she could stick up for herself and wasn't afraid to speak her mind.
As for Seth well he truly was a mystery through half of this book. He chased after Mari after they first met, but you soon find out that there really is something rather sweet about him. He soon starts protecting Mari from any harm that comes her way. I found him to be a rather interesting character, giving off mixed feelings. First hes sweet then hes making out with his ex, making you want to yell at him yourself.
Mari and Seth's romantic life is a tortured one separated through time. They love each other but at any moment he can disappear from Mari's life forever. I found them to be really cute together and I was happy that they finally got things to work out. This romance pulled on my heart strings more than once. I just want them to freaking be together and live happily ever after!
Seth has brothers who help the story move along. There names are Dee and Ty. Well I didn't really like Dee through out most of the book. He was often brooding around and never really wanted anything to do with Mari. I have to say from finishing the book my feeling for him have changed. Then there is Ty, hes like an older brother to Mari and watches out for her. He is really sweet and caring and often checks up on her. I think that his character was really fun and I enjoyed reading the conversations between Ty and Mari.
This book was a really good read. I would say that if you have a problem with drama then maybe this wouldn't be the book for you. I think that it wasn't to terrible though just gave the story some tense moments. I really enjoyed the storyline of this book and it almost made me cry a few times. Other than that it was a fun read and rather hard to put down. This book would be worth a read because it is a good love story. I really want to read the next book, but it isn't out yet!
When I read the synopsis for this book I was a little confused on weather I would like it or not. Turns out that I didn't like. I loved it ! I'm not a very big reader of "girl falling in love with a guy kind of story."This one had a really great twist to it, I found myself being rather curious to find out what was going to happen next. While this book has a lot of drama with-in it, it is well worth it due to the mystery within this read.
Our main character is a girl named Mari who is going off to college trying to get her next step in life started. All to quickly she catches the eye of the guy who all the girls want, star quarter back, Seth. She tries to avoid him as much as possible because he is a player who just wants her to be his number 24. I was very amused with her thinking through this book. I really like her character that she could stick up for herself and wasn't afraid to speak her mind.
As for Seth well he truly was a mystery through half of this book. He chased after Mari after they first met, but you soon find out that there really is something rather sweet about him. He soon starts protecting Mari from any harm that comes her way. I found him to be a rather interesting character, giving off mixed feelings. First hes sweet then hes making out with his ex, making you want to yell at him yourself.
Mari and Seth's romantic life is a tortured one separated through time. They love each other but at any moment he can disappear from Mari's life forever. I found them to be really cute together and I was happy that they finally got things to work out. This romance pulled on my heart strings more than once. I just want them to freaking be together and live happily ever after!
Seth has brothers who help the story move along. There names are Dee and Ty. Well I didn't really like Dee through out most of the book. He was often brooding around and never really wanted anything to do with Mari. I have to say from finishing the book my feeling for him have changed. Then there is Ty, hes like an older brother to Mari and watches out for her. He is really sweet and caring and often checks up on her. I think that his character was really fun and I enjoyed reading the conversations between Ty and Mari.
This book was a really good read. I would say that if you have a problem with drama then maybe this wouldn't be the book for you. I think that it wasn't to terrible though just gave the story some tense moments. I really enjoyed the storyline of this book and it almost made me cry a few times. Other than that it was a fun read and rather hard to put down. This book would be worth a read because it is a good love story. I really want to read the next book, but it isn't out yet!
January 21, 2014
I received this book in exchange for an honest review (Lovers of Paranormal)
Devastated, I need book two right now. N.O.W. NOW!
I absolutely love this book and it captivated me right from the start. This is the one of a few time-traveling book and it was stunning. Usually I would avoid time-traveling because I'm so afraid that the coupe have to be separated in the end. But I'm glad that I've read Carnelian.
In the beginning, the story flows like a teen romance and doesn't much fantasy 'feels' - which is why I adored this book so much. I like it because it wasn't those 'love at first sight' and it shows the progression between Seth and Mari. I fell in love with Seth the moment he laid his eyes on Mari. The interactions between Seth and Mari were hilarious and I swear tat anyone who read Carnelian would laugh out loud at Seth in a certain part which I'm not going to reveal here. He is so adorable and... simple minded in that particular part.
And as for Mari, oh my Mari, you don't have to be sooo perfect. She sure can kicked some asses, well, in a witty way. I love the way she uses her brain instead of depending on guys, and she can do anything - you name it, she do it. Initially, I was wondering if Seth needed her as his country's strategist since she is quick in thinking and often think out of the box.
But upon reading this, I think
The only disappointing part was that the book is too short, it would be nice if the 'traveling to past' part was longer but I believe I'll get more in the sequel. So next book will be a big yes for me. I will have to avoid seeing this book because every time it would remind me of the ending and every cells in my body would protest against the wait.
Recommended if you love teen romance with a pinch of fantasy and witty heroine!
Devastated, I need book two right now. N.O.W. NOW!
I absolutely love this book and it captivated me right from the start. This is the one of a few time-traveling book and it was stunning. Usually I would avoid time-traveling because I'm so afraid that the coupe have to be separated in the end. But I'm glad that I've read Carnelian.
In the beginning, the story flows like a teen romance and doesn't much fantasy 'feels' - which is why I adored this book so much. I like it because it wasn't those 'love at first sight' and it shows the progression between Seth and Mari. I fell in love with Seth the moment he laid his eyes on Mari. The interactions between Seth and Mari were hilarious and I swear tat anyone who read Carnelian would laugh out loud at Seth in a certain part which I'm not going to reveal here. He is so adorable and... simple minded in that particular part.
And as for Mari, oh my Mari, you don't have to be sooo perfect. She sure can kicked some asses, well, in a witty way. I love the way she uses her brain instead of depending on guys, and she can do anything - you name it, she do it. Initially, I was wondering if Seth needed her as his country's strategist since she is quick in thinking and often think out of the box.
But upon reading this, I think
The only disappointing part was that the book is too short, it would be nice if the 'traveling to past' part was longer but I believe I'll get more in the sequel. So next book will be a big yes for me. I will have to avoid seeing this book because every time it would remind me of the ending and every cells in my body would protest against the wait.
Recommended if you love teen romance with a pinch of fantasy and witty heroine!
April 10, 2017
So this is an interesting book to say the least. It starts off with Mari going to college and some dude falling asleep in her lap!! He is super cute ok well hot and she runs away from him. She over hears him tell his friends that he wants to date her that she is the one or something. But she hears the number of women he has dated and it would make her number 24 so she tries to avoid him only to have him cross her path and become persistent to asking her out. Eventually she accepts after finding out what a really great guy he is. But there is still something about him that is a mystery.
I love the cast of characters and I especially love Ty, he is such a kind and sweet person and to find out his past was the way it is broke my heart. Seth is a kind and smart guy and I really enjoy him around as well. Dee on the other hand I can't pin and have very little contact and exposure to that I couldn't say something about him one way or the other.
The mystery behind the story is definitely intriguing I enjoyed the answers that we got, but obviously we didn't get the full answers yet. So I still have a dump truck full of unanswered questions. The story was decently written however there were still some typos in the story to some wording where an extra word was thrown in or missing which sometimes made it difficult for me to understand what was being said. A couple typos the word feel was supposed to be fell I believe. So it might just just a bit more editing. Overall though aside from the typos the flow of the story matched what I've come to like from books. I enjoy minimal details about surroundings, more dialogue and it was paced in a manner I could enjoy and keep engaged with. I thought the CRUSH games were awesome and very smart and especially the way that Mari handled them. She is a very likable character as well. Overall I really enjoyed the story and can't wait to see what happened next. In the end of the book we get a sneak preview of what's to come and let's just say I want to know what happens like right now.
* I was given a copy of this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are completely my own. Thank you to the author for giving me the chance to read the book!
I love the cast of characters and I especially love Ty, he is such a kind and sweet person and to find out his past was the way it is broke my heart. Seth is a kind and smart guy and I really enjoy him around as well. Dee on the other hand I can't pin and have very little contact and exposure to that I couldn't say something about him one way or the other.
The mystery behind the story is definitely intriguing I enjoyed the answers that we got, but obviously we didn't get the full answers yet. So I still have a dump truck full of unanswered questions. The story was decently written however there were still some typos in the story to some wording where an extra word was thrown in or missing which sometimes made it difficult for me to understand what was being said. A couple typos the word feel was supposed to be fell I believe. So it might just just a bit more editing. Overall though aside from the typos the flow of the story matched what I've come to like from books. I enjoy minimal details about surroundings, more dialogue and it was paced in a manner I could enjoy and keep engaged with. I thought the CRUSH games were awesome and very smart and especially the way that Mari handled them. She is a very likable character as well. Overall I really enjoyed the story and can't wait to see what happened next. In the end of the book we get a sneak preview of what's to come and let's just say I want to know what happens like right now.
* I was given a copy of this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are completely my own. Thank you to the author for giving me the chance to read the book!
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