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Captivated #1
Captivate Me
Our angelic origins give us power. Our blood is why they hunt us.
After an incident at school that reveals her powers, Kat's parents ship her off to Midland Pines, a boarding school for the paranormally gifted, where she hopes to finish her senior year in peace. She makes new friends and has the attention of an illusionist name Levi, though something about his easy smile and crowding nature gives her pause.
It's not long before the shadows in the woods call to her. There's a pull to them she can't ignore, and she swears one night that a boy watches her from the wood line--the same boy who appears in her dreams while a secret admirer leaves her flowers. One by one, students go missing. The school goes on lockdown, and the place she suspects she'll find the answers is the one place she knows she shouldn't go.
What she finds there is more than she's ready for, including Gabe, a dark and captivating Half-breed like her. Their Nephilim origins mean more than just a source of divine power, it also means their blood is precious to those who need it for their own wicked purposes. He and his adoptive family claim they can keep her safe. Hidden. But because their existence must remain a secret, she'll also have to make an impossible choice to leave her old life behind.
But not everything is as it seems, and she quickly learns that not everyone has her best interests in mind. She'll have to sort friend from foe, truth from lies, before time runs out. Her life, and everyone else's at Midland Pines, depends on it.
Fans of HUSH, HUSH by Becca Fitzpatrick, FALLEN by Lauren Kate, and the HOUSE OF NIGHT series by P.C. and Kristin Cast will devour this Young Adult Paranormal Romance with plenty of action, danger, swoon-worthy teenage love, and a plot twist you'll never see coming. It has also been nominated for multiple awards for BEST VILLAIN! Complete series available now...
After an incident at school that reveals her powers, Kat's parents ship her off to Midland Pines, a boarding school for the paranormally gifted, where she hopes to finish her senior year in peace. She makes new friends and has the attention of an illusionist name Levi, though something about his easy smile and crowding nature gives her pause.
It's not long before the shadows in the woods call to her. There's a pull to them she can't ignore, and she swears one night that a boy watches her from the wood line--the same boy who appears in her dreams while a secret admirer leaves her flowers. One by one, students go missing. The school goes on lockdown, and the place she suspects she'll find the answers is the one place she knows she shouldn't go.
What she finds there is more than she's ready for, including Gabe, a dark and captivating Half-breed like her. Their Nephilim origins mean more than just a source of divine power, it also means their blood is precious to those who need it for their own wicked purposes. He and his adoptive family claim they can keep her safe. Hidden. But because their existence must remain a secret, she'll also have to make an impossible choice to leave her old life behind.
But not everything is as it seems, and she quickly learns that not everyone has her best interests in mind. She'll have to sort friend from foe, truth from lies, before time runs out. Her life, and everyone else's at Midland Pines, depends on it.
Fans of HUSH, HUSH by Becca Fitzpatrick, FALLEN by Lauren Kate, and the HOUSE OF NIGHT series by P.C. and Kristin Cast will devour this Young Adult Paranormal Romance with plenty of action, danger, swoon-worthy teenage love, and a plot twist you'll never see coming. It has also been nominated for multiple awards for BEST VILLAIN! Complete series available now...
222 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 9, 2014
57 people are currently reading
703 people want to read
About the author
S.J. Pierce
24 books399 followersInternational Bestselling Author Susan James Pierce writes Paranormal and Sci-if Romance novels, and they all have the same thing in common: The characters' love defies all odds. Her "unputdownable" stories will make you laugh, cry, swoon, and keep you on the edge of your seat. Enjoy the ride!
Love Contemporary Romance? Check out her books under Susan Pierce.
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Love Contemporary Romance? Check out her books under Susan Pierce.
Instagram: https://bit.ly/2vOnYbr
Facebook: https://bit.ly/3bnYVeu
Twitter: https://bit.ly/2UEhAfp
TikTok: https://bit.ly/3plekE4
Pinterest: https://bit.ly/2IrIQLZ
Bookbub: http://bit.ly/2s1S851
Booksprout: https://bit.ly/3djlQLR
Website: www.sjpiercebooks.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 150 reviews
November 24, 2025
Captivate Me is an exciting, new, young adult, paranormal story.
Captivate Me takes place at Midland Pines, a school for the paranormal gifted. Kat Walsh is hoping for a chance to start over. Labeled as a witch and tormented in her home Ireland town for her extraordinary abilities, she jumps at the chance to attend a school in the US.
Quickly developing new friends, Kat believes she's finally found a place where she belongs. But all is not perfect in Kat's new surroundings. People start to disappear, and a gorgeous stranger seems to be haunting her.
The story follows a great pace, causing the perfect flow to keep you invested in the plot.
There is a love triangle of sorts and a good amount of romantic tension. I did find the declarations of love a little rushed, but by the end, I was completely devoted to the outcome.
I was taken by surprise with the plot twist, and even though there was a complete plot resolution, I'm excited about the continuation of this story.
I received this copy of Captivate Me from S. J. Pierce in exchange for an honest review.
Captivate Me takes place at Midland Pines, a school for the paranormal gifted. Kat Walsh is hoping for a chance to start over. Labeled as a witch and tormented in her home Ireland town for her extraordinary abilities, she jumps at the chance to attend a school in the US.
Quickly developing new friends, Kat believes she's finally found a place where she belongs. But all is not perfect in Kat's new surroundings. People start to disappear, and a gorgeous stranger seems to be haunting her.
The story follows a great pace, causing the perfect flow to keep you invested in the plot.
There is a love triangle of sorts and a good amount of romantic tension. I did find the declarations of love a little rushed, but by the end, I was completely devoted to the outcome.
I was taken by surprise with the plot twist, and even though there was a complete plot resolution, I'm excited about the continuation of this story.
I received this copy of Captivate Me from S. J. Pierce in exchange for an honest review.
June 2, 2019
Captivate Me is an engaging and astounding novel written by S. J. Pierce that will surely capture your attention.
The story tells the story of Kat – a daughter of a fallen angel and a prophet. She was already aware of her power – telekinesis – so she tries her best to keep it a secret from the people around her. When she accidentally used her gift while she was in school, someone saw what she did and tells it to everybody. Now, everyone thought that she was a witch or a devil’s daughter. Moving to another school meant for her kind – those who also had gifts – she met some friends and even a special someone named Levi. But, as she stays longer, her interest was caught by a mysterious boy in the forest. Getting to know what lies behind those trees and woods, Kat will also be lured into a dangerous trap she never expects.
This book promised me a good story since I’ve read the first page and it never failed me. I loved how Pierce knitted the scenes perfectly. The way it was narrated was also good to the point I can’t put this book down as I can’t wait to see what will happen next.
At some point, it also crossed my mind that this book has some similarities to some books I’ve read like the Harry Potter Series and the Twilight Saga. How? It’s for you to find out.
“But I do want you to know something,” I continued and reached for his hand, squeezed it to emphasize what I was about to say. “I do care for you. I’ll always care for you. You have a permanent place in my heart.” – S. J. Pierce, Captivate Me
The characters are very likable! I liked Levi the most because he isn’t like the other jerks. On the other hand, Kat makes me, sometimes, irritated on her because all she ever thinks is about love – if Levi is the one for her or not. The other characters are also cool, and I won’t give their names and who they are in Kat’s life as it might spoil something.
The title plus a pretty cover and hooking synopsis will surely make you want to read this. This is recommended to all paranormal romance lovers! I am sure you will like this one.
Disclaimer: I received a reader copy from the author via Xpresso Book Tours.
BLOG POST LINK: http://bit.ly/2d4B5Wx
The story tells the story of Kat – a daughter of a fallen angel and a prophet. She was already aware of her power – telekinesis – so she tries her best to keep it a secret from the people around her. When she accidentally used her gift while she was in school, someone saw what she did and tells it to everybody. Now, everyone thought that she was a witch or a devil’s daughter. Moving to another school meant for her kind – those who also had gifts – she met some friends and even a special someone named Levi. But, as she stays longer, her interest was caught by a mysterious boy in the forest. Getting to know what lies behind those trees and woods, Kat will also be lured into a dangerous trap she never expects.
This book promised me a good story since I’ve read the first page and it never failed me. I loved how Pierce knitted the scenes perfectly. The way it was narrated was also good to the point I can’t put this book down as I can’t wait to see what will happen next.
At some point, it also crossed my mind that this book has some similarities to some books I’ve read like the Harry Potter Series and the Twilight Saga. How? It’s for you to find out.
“But I do want you to know something,” I continued and reached for his hand, squeezed it to emphasize what I was about to say. “I do care for you. I’ll always care for you. You have a permanent place in my heart.” – S. J. Pierce, Captivate Me
The characters are very likable! I liked Levi the most because he isn’t like the other jerks. On the other hand, Kat makes me, sometimes, irritated on her because all she ever thinks is about love – if Levi is the one for her or not. The other characters are also cool, and I won’t give their names and who they are in Kat’s life as it might spoil something.
The title plus a pretty cover and hooking synopsis will surely make you want to read this. This is recommended to all paranormal romance lovers! I am sure you will like this one.
Disclaimer: I received a reader copy from the author via Xpresso Book Tours.
BLOG POST LINK: http://bit.ly/2d4B5Wx
August 15, 2016
When I started Captivate Me, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I thought there was going to be a lot of romance from the cover. And even though there is a whole lot of romance in this one, it didn’t really take over the novel for me. There was a plot aside from that, and it was pretty good.
I really liked the school setting and how it is full of gifted students. I’ve always been someone who likes the idea and having a Sky High-esque kind of school with mind readers, elementals and that sort of thing? Yes please! Every time a new character was introduced I wanted to know what their gift was – it was a like a present you just want to unwrap. I also really loved Kat, the main characters power, which was telekinesis. I want this power for myself.
Kat was a nice main character. She had ideas in her mind about true love and I don’t know how I felt about that. But she was loyal to her best friends and would do anything for them. She’s an artist who loves painting, truly cares for her family and also is adventurous and daring. I did find her to be a little naïve and gullible sometimes though. She goes to the woods and meets these strange people there. They tell her things and she pretty much believes them immediately. There wasn’t any doubt in her mind about them being untrustworthy or anything, and I couldn’t help thinking – really? But aside for that, she was a really nice main character.
I liked her friends who made up the secondary characters. There were two sets of secondary characters, because there were two groups of friends that Kat was involved in. But both of them were present and well included in the novel. Maybe not too deep, but good enough for me to enjoy the novel.
I felt like the beginning of the novel was a little slow and introductory, but that’s like any beginning to a trilogy or series, so I didn’t mind too much. In the end, the action picked up and I flew through it. That’s the part I enjoyed most!
This review and others can be found on Olivia's Catastrophe: https://olivia-savannah.blogspot.nl/2...
I really liked the school setting and how it is full of gifted students. I’ve always been someone who likes the idea and having a Sky High-esque kind of school with mind readers, elementals and that sort of thing? Yes please! Every time a new character was introduced I wanted to know what their gift was – it was a like a present you just want to unwrap. I also really loved Kat, the main characters power, which was telekinesis. I want this power for myself.
Kat was a nice main character. She had ideas in her mind about true love and I don’t know how I felt about that. But she was loyal to her best friends and would do anything for them. She’s an artist who loves painting, truly cares for her family and also is adventurous and daring. I did find her to be a little naïve and gullible sometimes though. She goes to the woods and meets these strange people there. They tell her things and she pretty much believes them immediately. There wasn’t any doubt in her mind about them being untrustworthy or anything, and I couldn’t help thinking – really? But aside for that, she was a really nice main character.
I liked her friends who made up the secondary characters. There were two sets of secondary characters, because there were two groups of friends that Kat was involved in. But both of them were present and well included in the novel. Maybe not too deep, but good enough for me to enjoy the novel.
I felt like the beginning of the novel was a little slow and introductory, but that’s like any beginning to a trilogy or series, so I didn’t mind too much. In the end, the action picked up and I flew through it. That’s the part I enjoyed most!
This review and others can be found on Olivia's Catastrophe: https://olivia-savannah.blogspot.nl/2...
November 27, 2014
I received this book in exchange for an honest review (LoP or Lovers of Paranormal)
Honestly after reading the first few pages I knew I had already made up my mind about my feelings toward this but I kept reading in hopes that maybe I'd end up surprised and amazed. Sadly that was not the case.
The Good:
-We have angels or at least nephilims which I always find to be interesting or at least note worthy.
-We have special powers unique to each person.
The Bad:
-There is absolutely no world building. We know what her parents are but we know nothing about them, nothing of how they came to be. We are not told why they get powers or how they use. We barely know what her friends powers are. We just get bits and pieces of information making me think there are too many loose ends on that matter and it leaves a feeling of incompleteness.
- The characters did nothing to help the matter. In my opinion they were bland in every sense of the word. No one stood out or made any kind of difference to me. None were likable, or unlikable, for that matter: they were just present with lack of a presence(If that makes any sense) and I consider that a HUGE problem.
-Exclamations. Ok, ok it's not that bad but after a while it did get tiresome, at least for me.
-This is just too predictable
-As you know this is a very short book, something I would have read in a maximum of two sittings. I found myself procrastinating every single time I picked up this book. I mean I got into very heavy cleaning, laundry, washing the car, cleaning out the garage. Anything that would get me away from it
MY MANTRA!
And The Ugly:
Yes there is UGLY. This is basically a "Twilight" and "Xavier's School for Gifted Youngsters" offspring.
They are all accounted for...
Only difference is: there are no vampires and that was the ONLY thing that made me like Twilight- Yes, I like Twilight and No, I do not care what you think lol
-Falling for a stalker- <<<<< that right there makes MY DNF pile. I find that highly unbelievable and Yes, I know this is fiction but COME ON! really?!? REALLY?!!
-The INSTA-LOVE of astronomically epic proportions. This was just ridiculous beyond the point of redemption. I mean they literally just meet and they are already talking abut love
Suffice to say: This book failed in Captivating Me...
Honestly after reading the first few pages I knew I had already made up my mind about my feelings toward this but I kept reading in hopes that maybe I'd end up surprised and amazed. Sadly that was not the case.
The Good:
-We have angels or at least nephilims which I always find to be interesting or at least note worthy.
-We have special powers unique to each person.
The Bad:
-There is absolutely no world building. We know what her parents are but we know nothing about them, nothing of how they came to be. We are not told why they get powers or how they use. We barely know what her friends powers are. We just get bits and pieces of information making me think there are too many loose ends on that matter and it leaves a feeling of incompleteness.
- The characters did nothing to help the matter. In my opinion they were bland in every sense of the word. No one stood out or made any kind of difference to me. None were likable, or unlikable, for that matter: they were just present with lack of a presence(If that makes any sense) and I consider that a HUGE problem.
-Exclamations. Ok, ok it's not that bad but after a while it did get tiresome, at least for me.
-This is just too predictable
-As you know this is a very short book, something I would have read in a maximum of two sittings. I found myself procrastinating every single time I picked up this book. I mean I got into very heavy cleaning, laundry, washing the car, cleaning out the garage. Anything that would get me away from it
MY MANTRA!
And The Ugly:
Yes there is UGLY. This is basically a "Twilight" and "Xavier's School for Gifted Youngsters" offspring.
They are all accounted for...
Only difference is: there are no vampires and that was the ONLY thing that made me like Twilight- Yes, I like Twilight and No, I do not care what you think lol
-Falling for a stalker- <<<<< that right there makes MY DNF pile. I find that highly unbelievable and Yes, I know this is fiction but COME ON! really?!? REALLY?!!
-The INSTA-LOVE of astronomically epic proportions. This was just ridiculous beyond the point of redemption. I mean they literally just meet and they are already talking abut love
Suffice to say: This book failed in Captivating Me...
February 28, 2016
***I received this book in exchange for an honest review from the goodreads group LoP or Lovers of Paranormal.***
I really enjoyed Captivate Me and did not want to stop reading it. Kat is a strong teenage character, and I loved that she called herself out on some of the themes we so often see in YA novels. At one point she decided she had to make up her mind about two guys she was interested in because she did not want to be involved in some lame love triangle (her words). I think I love her. She also cusses! Like a real teenager!!! I'm just so excited that this novel includes this very realistic aspect of being in high school. There is nothing worse than a character shouting "darn" during a lethal action scene. I mean, really. I thought I had figure out who the bad guy was right away. But no, I was way off (love it when that happens). The ending was full of mush and happy. I prefer a bit more turmoil (I'm sort of dark and twisty that way), but I still enjoyed it and will definitely read the next one in the series.
I really enjoyed Captivate Me and did not want to stop reading it. Kat is a strong teenage character, and I loved that she called herself out on some of the themes we so often see in YA novels. At one point she decided she had to make up her mind about two guys she was interested in because she did not want to be involved in some lame love triangle (her words). I think I love her. She also cusses! Like a real teenager!!! I'm just so excited that this novel includes this very realistic aspect of being in high school. There is nothing worse than a character shouting "darn" during a lethal action scene. I mean, really. I thought I had figure out who the bad guy was right away. But no, I was way off (love it when that happens). The ending was full of mush and happy. I prefer a bit more turmoil (I'm sort of dark and twisty that way), but I still enjoyed it and will definitely read the next one in the series.
April 2, 2014
One breath. One simple precious breath. it's something you don't think about until there's a possibility that there might not be another.
Kat Walsh finally feels like she fits in. She had just transferred to Midland Pines boarding school for the gifted. No longer having to hide her special gift, she is finally making friends and even has a boyfriend, Levi. But then she starts having dreams of a gorgeous boy, and the woods surrounding Midland Pines seem to call to her. And that's when things start to get interesting. Students start to go missing and that pull that she feels towards the woods is so much more than she ever could have expected.
Despite Kat's gift and her ancestry, she really came across as a normal teen. Struggling with wanting to fit in, being away from her family and her feelings for Levi. Not to mention the mysterious boy from her dreams.
There's someone you're fated to. You just have to find them.
A lot of the first portion of the book focuses on the romance and Kat struggling with her feelings. While there is a love triangle of sorts, once it comes out in the open it was resolved fairly quickly. Kat's confusion about things was just what she would expect a seventeen year old to be feeling. At first I was torn. I knew who I wanted Kat to be with, but Levi and Gabriel are both special, and I didn't want either of them to be hurt. They each had some amazing qualities. But I was really more than happy with the way that things played out and with how the characters dealt with everything. The title of the book really summed out exactly how these characters felt for each other.
The second half of the book is filled with much more suspense and drama. There was a great build to the action and I have to say that I was just as thrown as the characters were by the way things progressed. I really didn't pick the turn of events at all.
There were quite a lot of support characters throughout the story that I had to wrap my head around. Some we got to know a little better than others. I did really enjoy the time that we spent with Anna. But I'm looking forward to getting to know them all better next time around.
I really liked that the author didn't leave us with a huge cliffhanger ending but instead set the story up to lead nicely into the next book. There are definitely still questions that need answering, but nothing that had me wanting to throw the book across the room.
3.75/5 Sweet Captivating Stars
Kat Walsh finally feels like she fits in. She had just transferred to Midland Pines boarding school for the gifted. No longer having to hide her special gift, she is finally making friends and even has a boyfriend, Levi. But then she starts having dreams of a gorgeous boy, and the woods surrounding Midland Pines seem to call to her. And that's when things start to get interesting. Students start to go missing and that pull that she feels towards the woods is so much more than she ever could have expected.
Despite Kat's gift and her ancestry, she really came across as a normal teen. Struggling with wanting to fit in, being away from her family and her feelings for Levi. Not to mention the mysterious boy from her dreams.
There's someone you're fated to. You just have to find them.
A lot of the first portion of the book focuses on the romance and Kat struggling with her feelings. While there is a love triangle of sorts, once it comes out in the open it was resolved fairly quickly. Kat's confusion about things was just what she would expect a seventeen year old to be feeling. At first I was torn. I knew who I wanted Kat to be with, but Levi and Gabriel are both special, and I didn't want either of them to be hurt. They each had some amazing qualities. But I was really more than happy with the way that things played out and with how the characters dealt with everything. The title of the book really summed out exactly how these characters felt for each other.
The second half of the book is filled with much more suspense and drama. There was a great build to the action and I have to say that I was just as thrown as the characters were by the way things progressed. I really didn't pick the turn of events at all.
There were quite a lot of support characters throughout the story that I had to wrap my head around. Some we got to know a little better than others. I did really enjoy the time that we spent with Anna. But I'm looking forward to getting to know them all better next time around.
I really liked that the author didn't leave us with a huge cliffhanger ending but instead set the story up to lead nicely into the next book. There are definitely still questions that need answering, but nothing that had me wanting to throw the book across the room.
3.75/5 Sweet Captivating Stars
April 1, 2014
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review
3.5 Stars
Captivate Me is a fun YA paranormal read about a 'gifted' girl with telekintetic powers. At its essence, it's about love. How do you know if you're in love? Well, Kat, if you're thinking about that as much as you always did with Levi, that's a pretty good indicator right there. Of course, her mother's lofty advice isn't overly helpful either.
Kat is a sweet girl from Ireland. When she accidentally reveals her powers at home, she moves halfway across the world to attend a school for the 'gifted' in Colorado. She seems to be rather oblivious to her physical appeal, and is dumbfounded when she lands the most popular boy in school. But nightly dreams make her wonder about her relationship with handsome Levi. She can't help but wonder about the force calling to her from the woods.
Really, Levi doesn't stand a chance. It's apparent from the first pages that though Kat feels she should be into Levi, she really isn't—at least as anything other than a friend. Gabe is mysterious. romantic, and best of all, he's like Kat. He's also written as drop-dead gorgeous, and manages to tongue-tie our intrepid heroine, Kat.
I enjoyed the characters in the story, found the different powers intriguing. I love how all the 'gifted' gather together in three U.S. boarding schools. It's a fast-paced story filled with mystery, angsty love, and drama. It's also a standalone novel... no cliffhanger ending here. Thank you, Ms. Pierce! The ending was well-written and satisfying.
3.5 Stars
Captivate Me is a fun YA paranormal read about a 'gifted' girl with telekintetic powers. At its essence, it's about love. How do you know if you're in love? Well, Kat, if you're thinking about that as much as you always did with Levi, that's a pretty good indicator right there. Of course, her mother's lofty advice isn't overly helpful either.
Kat is a sweet girl from Ireland. When she accidentally reveals her powers at home, she moves halfway across the world to attend a school for the 'gifted' in Colorado. She seems to be rather oblivious to her physical appeal, and is dumbfounded when she lands the most popular boy in school. But nightly dreams make her wonder about her relationship with handsome Levi. She can't help but wonder about the force calling to her from the woods.
Really, Levi doesn't stand a chance. It's apparent from the first pages that though Kat feels she should be into Levi, she really isn't—at least as anything other than a friend. Gabe is mysterious. romantic, and best of all, he's like Kat. He's also written as drop-dead gorgeous, and manages to tongue-tie our intrepid heroine, Kat.
I enjoyed the characters in the story, found the different powers intriguing. I love how all the 'gifted' gather together in three U.S. boarding schools. It's a fast-paced story filled with mystery, angsty love, and drama. It's also a standalone novel... no cliffhanger ending here. Thank you, Ms. Pierce! The ending was well-written and satisfying.
August 23, 2014
Closing doors with your mind is a quirky party trick to say the least but imagine being amongst a group where occurrences like these are accepted and even embraced. Kat has recently found a sense of belonging at a school for people like her; ‘Gifted’s’.
She lives by her mothers’ words when it comes to love. She was told that when she finds that someone she will know...little does she know that when she experiences the undeniable pull of a mysterious stranger, it leads to more than just finding eternal love. She will experience dangers far beyond her imaginings.
'Captivating’ is a word that shouldn’t be used lightly. This is a beautiful love story about a couple who are literally drawn to each other. Its love at first sight on a whole different scale.
It has a promising opening and doesn’t disappoint but at times it did scream ‘Hogwarts’. At one point it was dangerously leaning towards content that you would find in the Potter series but S.J Pierce mercifully rescues it from that.
That aside, it does have a great concept of good and evil that you would usually find in angel themed books. There was a warning for mature content which seems unnecessary as it could be targeted at a much younger audience.
To encompass the whole book as it stands, the plot is simple, easy to follow, has great characters that can grow. An altogether promising piece with potential to expand. Congratulations S.J Pierce.
She lives by her mothers’ words when it comes to love. She was told that when she finds that someone she will know...little does she know that when she experiences the undeniable pull of a mysterious stranger, it leads to more than just finding eternal love. She will experience dangers far beyond her imaginings.
'Captivating’ is a word that shouldn’t be used lightly. This is a beautiful love story about a couple who are literally drawn to each other. Its love at first sight on a whole different scale.
It has a promising opening and doesn’t disappoint but at times it did scream ‘Hogwarts’. At one point it was dangerously leaning towards content that you would find in the Potter series but S.J Pierce mercifully rescues it from that.
That aside, it does have a great concept of good and evil that you would usually find in angel themed books. There was a warning for mature content which seems unnecessary as it could be targeted at a much younger audience.
To encompass the whole book as it stands, the plot is simple, easy to follow, has great characters that can grow. An altogether promising piece with potential to expand. Congratulations S.J Pierce.
December 12, 2016
Intriguing story and characters. Felt a bit like a cross between Twilight and X-Men to me.
Kat (Kathrin) Walsh is sent to a school for the "gifted" - because she has a special power - telekinesis. Well, why wouldn't she? She is the Daughter of a Prophet & a former (former not fallen) Angel.
I really enjoyed Kat's character - in this story she show some good character growth and also seemed to learn from her mistakes or events that happened.
During this first story she is a bit torn between Levi - a guy she has been interested & in the beginning stages of a romantic relationship with since starting at the "gifted" school about 2 weeks ago - and the mysterious guy in her dreams - Gabriel.
As the story heats up (both romantically and action-wise) we learn there is more to Kat than we know.
The attraction and chemistry between Kat & Gabe is mesmerizing and captivating. I'm looking forward to seeing how that relationship grows as both Kat and Gabe grow and face new obstacles.
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this Advanced Reader Copy.
Kat (Kathrin) Walsh is sent to a school for the "gifted" - because she has a special power - telekinesis. Well, why wouldn't she? She is the Daughter of a Prophet & a former (former not fallen) Angel.
I really enjoyed Kat's character - in this story she show some good character growth and also seemed to learn from her mistakes or events that happened.
During this first story she is a bit torn between Levi - a guy she has been interested & in the beginning stages of a romantic relationship with since starting at the "gifted" school about 2 weeks ago - and the mysterious guy in her dreams - Gabriel.
As the story heats up (both romantically and action-wise) we learn there is more to Kat than we know.
The attraction and chemistry between Kat & Gabe is mesmerizing and captivating. I'm looking forward to seeing how that relationship grows as both Kat and Gabe grow and face new obstacles.
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this Advanced Reader Copy.
April 2, 2014
Kat Walsh knows she is different, in fact her parents have always been honest about who she is. However her unusual talents have left her a target for people who do not understand her she is different in ways no one could understand. With a fresh start at a school who acknowledges the the uniqueness of it’s student. Kat finds herself attached to a boy who should have her falling head over heels in love, however there is something that is holding Kat back.
Without divulging too much, this story completely fascinated me, I have not been this entranced since reading the House of Night series. Kat is trying to be an average seventeen year old, but sh is far from that. I liked the pacing and the way the story revealed itself, it is one you pick up and try to guess what will happen next and keep reading to figure out if your guess actually becomes a reality. Wonderful story, hope there is a next one.
Without divulging too much, this story completely fascinated me, I have not been this entranced since reading the House of Night series. Kat is trying to be an average seventeen year old, but sh is far from that. I liked the pacing and the way the story revealed itself, it is one you pick up and try to guess what will happen next and keep reading to figure out if your guess actually becomes a reality. Wonderful story, hope there is a next one.
August 21, 2014
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Lovers of Paranormal or LoP*
Kat is a teenager with extraordinary abilities. One day at school she accidentally lets the "normal" kids at school see what she's capable of. After being treated horribly by her peers, her parents let her attend Midland Pines. A school for teens with paranormal powers. She ends up meeting Levi, a super hot, popular boy. And he likes her. However, Kat is dealing with things she doesn't understand.
I don't want to give too much away but I loved the mystery in this book. I really wanted to know what was going on with Kat. When things were gradually being explained I was not disappointed! I loved this book! This was the first book in the Captivated series and I can't wait until the second one comes out!
5 'Im captivated' Stars!
Kat is a teenager with extraordinary abilities. One day at school she accidentally lets the "normal" kids at school see what she's capable of. After being treated horribly by her peers, her parents let her attend Midland Pines. A school for teens with paranormal powers. She ends up meeting Levi, a super hot, popular boy. And he likes her. However, Kat is dealing with things she doesn't understand.
I don't want to give too much away but I loved the mystery in this book. I really wanted to know what was going on with Kat. When things were gradually being explained I was not disappointed! I loved this book! This was the first book in the Captivated series and I can't wait until the second one comes out!
5 'Im captivated' Stars!
July 6, 2016
After reading the synopsis I wasn't sure how I would feel about this book but it ended up being a lot better than I thought. It all begins with Kat being outed at her old school for having the gift of telekinesis and of course the people freak out. She is then sent to a new school where she gets to interact with other teenagers with special gifts too. She then begins to dream about Gabriel and eventually she finds out that he is real. Once they meet she finds out that she is immortal and everything goes from there. With the epilogue being what it was it will definitely be interesting to see what happens in the next book.
Want to read
August 20, 2020🎁 The Captivated Series (5 book series) is FREE on Amazon today (8/20/2020)! 🎁
April 7, 2014
* An eARC was provided by the author in exchange of an honest review.
This book was a good quick read. It started out nicely narrated and the heroine was some what likable. I got annoyed with the kind-of instalove in the middle, but the plot twist toward the end totally questioned that. The ending was predictable and I'm happy to report there was also NO cliff hanger.
The heroine (Kat) started out a descent person. She was caring, devoted to her friends and all around goody two shoes. Toward the middle (after instalove happened) she became petulant, annoying, idiotic and as shallow as a kiddy pool. Also she seemed to want to force love with Levi. I got tired of hearing her talk all about how if she forced love then it wasn't love, or was it? She become very dramatic during the story as well. It also hints at a love triangle and even though Kat does do something about it, it wasn't because she decided "I have to set one of them striaght". Oh, no. That would be too much to ask. She does something because the "other guy" (Levi) corners her.
I liked Levi from the beginning. He was a nice friendly face every girl deserves. He was considerate, caring and felt something akin to love toward Ms. Kat. Though it didn't work out, I didn't like what was hinted at the end of the book with the "new" love interest.
The mystery guy was a mystery. All I learned in this book is that he has powers, loves his "adopted" family and living like a homeless person. We, as a reader, didn't even get a glimpse of him as a person. All Kat would ask him is what his family was like and yet she was "captivated" by him. As far as I know if you lust after someone it's because you want them fiscally and there's a reason it isn't considered a relationship.
I suspected the shady clan from the beginning. It also bothered me that because of a guy, Kat was ready to throw her life, friends and family included, away to live like an animal always camping and migrating from state to state without even wanting proof of the so called "threat". I wouldn't believe/trust someone I've known all of one week enough to drop everything and live with them. My point below....
The ending was crazy. I liked how the author threw in that plot twist and the doubts she planted. After all that was resolved it went back to Averageville. The ending from there was predictable and I really wasn't expecting anything less.
"You teenage girls are so easily fooled."
Favorite Quotes:
Consider my favorite quotes the ones mentioned above C:
This book was a good quick read. It started out nicely narrated and the heroine was some what likable. I got annoyed with the kind-of instalove in the middle, but the plot twist toward the end totally questioned that. The ending was predictable and I'm happy to report there was also NO cliff hanger.
The heroine (Kat) started out a descent person. She was caring, devoted to her friends and all around goody two shoes. Toward the middle (after instalove happened) she became petulant, annoying, idiotic and as shallow as a kiddy pool. Also she seemed to want to force love with Levi. I got tired of hearing her talk all about how if she forced love then it wasn't love, or was it? She become very dramatic during the story as well. It also hints at a love triangle and even though Kat does do something about it, it wasn't because she decided "I have to set one of them striaght". Oh, no. That would be too much to ask. She does something because the "other guy" (Levi) corners her.
I liked Levi from the beginning. He was a nice friendly face every girl deserves. He was considerate, caring and felt something akin to love toward Ms. Kat. Though it didn't work out, I didn't like what was hinted at the end of the book with the "new" love interest.
"Levi, however, was tangible, and still as sweet and gorgeous as ever."
The mystery guy was a mystery. All I learned in this book is that he has powers, loves his "adopted" family and living like a homeless person. We, as a reader, didn't even get a glimpse of him as a person. All Kat would ask him is what his family was like and yet she was "captivated" by him. As far as I know if you lust after someone it's because you want them fiscally and there's a reason it isn't considered a relationship.
"His face - gorgeous, ethereal like a majestic angel or god."
I suspected the shady clan from the beginning. It also bothered me that because of a guy, Kat was ready to throw her life, friends and family included, away to live like an animal always camping and migrating from state to state without even wanting proof of the so called "threat". I wouldn't believe/trust someone I've known all of one week enough to drop everything and live with them. My point below....
"I needed to let go and trust that Iris knew what she was doing."
The ending was crazy. I liked how the author threw in that plot twist and the doubts she planted. After all that was resolved it went back to Averageville. The ending from there was predictable and I really wasn't expecting anything less.
"You teenage girls are so easily fooled."
Favorite Quotes:
Consider my favorite quotes the ones mentioned above C:
March 31, 2014
**4.5 Stars**
Captivate Me is a YA spinoff of Ms. Pierce's Alyx Rayer Chronicles, although you don't have to read that series to enjoy Captivate Me. I quite enjoyed my introduction into Kat's world.
Kathrin Walsh has always been able to hide her special ability from the outside world. However, following an incident that was the result of a simple mistake made when she was running late, Kat now finds herself at Midland Pines, a school for the Gifted. Here she finds there are others like her, and she can finally be herself.
In the midst of making new friends and worrying over finding that special one, Kat begins to feel a pull to the woods beyond the school grounds. It is there she meets a young man. The young man that's been visiting her dreams. He introduces her to his small group he calls family, who share even more startling information about her life. As Kat tries to come to terms with this new information, as well as explore her pull towards Gabriel, students begin disappearing.
The story line is initially heavy on the romance - finding it, figuring out what true love might feel like. However, just as it was beginning to wear on me, the mystery and action kicked in. These elements amped up my pleasure. Once all the dust settles, Kat has some important decisions to make.
Kat, despite her ruminating on romance, is a likable heroine. Kat is smart and brave and I liked that Ms. Pierce gave her her father's artistic gifts. She's dealing with normal teenage things like making friends, finding the perfect dress for a school dance, and taking exams. She's also missing her family, whom she's close to, now that she's moved to the States. And she also is learning how to embrace her gift and those of others, along with how the information she learns from Gabriel. It's a lot for a teenage girl and it was gratifying to watch her handle it all.
The supporting characters are all likable as well. I'm curious to learn more about Sarah, Anna, Dawson, and Ronnie, Kat's friends at school. And I'm eager to find out more of Piper, Aubrey, Brad and Colton's history. We don't get to spend much time with some of them and I want to get better acquainted with them. Levi, Kat's first love interest, is sweet, compassionate and gentlemanly. I liked that he wasn't a typical boneheaded high school boy.
But it was Gabriel that stole my heart despite not getting to spend much time with him. Ms. Pierce did well in defining his character in a short period of time. I felt a pull to him as Kat did. He's charming, protective, and even though he wasn't initially completely honest with Kat, he rectifies that issue. I was able to feel the chemistry between he and Kat from the beginning.
I'm fascinated with all that's been revealed to Kat and I'm excited to spend more time her her world. I want to see where she and her cohorts go from this point forward.
Captivate Me is a YA spinoff of Ms. Pierce's Alyx Rayer Chronicles, although you don't have to read that series to enjoy Captivate Me. I quite enjoyed my introduction into Kat's world.
Kathrin Walsh has always been able to hide her special ability from the outside world. However, following an incident that was the result of a simple mistake made when she was running late, Kat now finds herself at Midland Pines, a school for the Gifted. Here she finds there are others like her, and she can finally be herself.
In the midst of making new friends and worrying over finding that special one, Kat begins to feel a pull to the woods beyond the school grounds. It is there she meets a young man. The young man that's been visiting her dreams. He introduces her to his small group he calls family, who share even more startling information about her life. As Kat tries to come to terms with this new information, as well as explore her pull towards Gabriel, students begin disappearing.
The story line is initially heavy on the romance - finding it, figuring out what true love might feel like. However, just as it was beginning to wear on me, the mystery and action kicked in. These elements amped up my pleasure. Once all the dust settles, Kat has some important decisions to make.
Kat, despite her ruminating on romance, is a likable heroine. Kat is smart and brave and I liked that Ms. Pierce gave her her father's artistic gifts. She's dealing with normal teenage things like making friends, finding the perfect dress for a school dance, and taking exams. She's also missing her family, whom she's close to, now that she's moved to the States. And she also is learning how to embrace her gift and those of others, along with how the information she learns from Gabriel. It's a lot for a teenage girl and it was gratifying to watch her handle it all.
The supporting characters are all likable as well. I'm curious to learn more about Sarah, Anna, Dawson, and Ronnie, Kat's friends at school. And I'm eager to find out more of Piper, Aubrey, Brad and Colton's history. We don't get to spend much time with some of them and I want to get better acquainted with them. Levi, Kat's first love interest, is sweet, compassionate and gentlemanly. I liked that he wasn't a typical boneheaded high school boy.
But it was Gabriel that stole my heart despite not getting to spend much time with him. Ms. Pierce did well in defining his character in a short period of time. I felt a pull to him as Kat did. He's charming, protective, and even though he wasn't initially completely honest with Kat, he rectifies that issue. I was able to feel the chemistry between he and Kat from the beginning.
I'm fascinated with all that's been revealed to Kat and I'm excited to spend more time her her world. I want to see where she and her cohorts go from this point forward.
April 28, 2014
Plot
The plot was definitely the deal breaker in this novel. The way this story flows is a bit unrealistic, but the events that happened made up for it. It wad full of action and mystery and betrayals that you could kind of see coming, but still come as a surprise. It was a nice start up to the rest of this series.
Leading Lady
Kat Walsh is gifted, so her parents send her to a special boarding school for the gifted once she slips up and uses her telekinesis at her school. I’m not quite sure how I felt about Kat. She seemed a bit shallow at first and at points in the novel, but you couldn’t help but root for her. She also did some not great things to her boyfriend, which was the main turn off for me. But she was an interesting character to read, and I’m curious to see if I can come to like her more in the upcoming novels.
Leading Male
Gabriel was the love interest. He was the same thing that Kat is (can’t spoil it!) and he lived in the woods outside her school. The thing about Gabriel was that he was a bit of a creeper. He could turn invisible and he would leave things in Kat’s room…and that was what made me a bit iffy about him. But he was just so innocent, it was hard to hold it against him. I liked him more than the other boy, but still. He could use a bit of improvement, and I feel like his character will be developed more in the upcoming novel.
Romance
There is no other word to describe this romance than insta-love of epic proportions, which just, unfortunately, didn’t do it for me. They were sweet and adorable, sure, but it just happened a bit too quick for my liking. On the other hand, Kat’s brief romance with Levi was more natural in my opinion. I wish we could have seen more of that, or seen a slower progression with Gabriel and Kat.
World Building
Pierce did create a unique world that reminded me of the Shadow Falls series by C.C. Hunter. She also created history and characters that were idiosyncratic. I can’t wait to see where Pierce continues to take this story.
Conclusion
Captivate Me was a decent novel that I could recommend to those who like the paranormal genre. Although I thought the characters were decent at best, the plot line was able to get me through and enthralled enough to be looking forward to the next novel and seeing where Pierce takes this story next.
The plot was definitely the deal breaker in this novel. The way this story flows is a bit unrealistic, but the events that happened made up for it. It wad full of action and mystery and betrayals that you could kind of see coming, but still come as a surprise. It was a nice start up to the rest of this series.
Leading Lady
Kat Walsh is gifted, so her parents send her to a special boarding school for the gifted once she slips up and uses her telekinesis at her school. I’m not quite sure how I felt about Kat. She seemed a bit shallow at first and at points in the novel, but you couldn’t help but root for her. She also did some not great things to her boyfriend, which was the main turn off for me. But she was an interesting character to read, and I’m curious to see if I can come to like her more in the upcoming novels.
Leading Male
Gabriel was the love interest. He was the same thing that Kat is (can’t spoil it!) and he lived in the woods outside her school. The thing about Gabriel was that he was a bit of a creeper. He could turn invisible and he would leave things in Kat’s room…and that was what made me a bit iffy about him. But he was just so innocent, it was hard to hold it against him. I liked him more than the other boy, but still. He could use a bit of improvement, and I feel like his character will be developed more in the upcoming novel.
Romance
There is no other word to describe this romance than insta-love of epic proportions, which just, unfortunately, didn’t do it for me. They were sweet and adorable, sure, but it just happened a bit too quick for my liking. On the other hand, Kat’s brief romance with Levi was more natural in my opinion. I wish we could have seen more of that, or seen a slower progression with Gabriel and Kat.
World Building
Pierce did create a unique world that reminded me of the Shadow Falls series by C.C. Hunter. She also created history and characters that were idiosyncratic. I can’t wait to see where Pierce continues to take this story.
Conclusion
Captivate Me was a decent novel that I could recommend to those who like the paranormal genre. Although I thought the characters were decent at best, the plot line was able to get me through and enthralled enough to be looking forward to the next novel and seeing where Pierce takes this story next.
March 14, 2014
Captivate Me by S.J. Pierce
4 Stars
Ok, so I am not really one to read or gravitate toward paranormal books but when offered to do a review for this book something made me decide to take a step out of my “smut” shell and go for it. I am so glad I did because it did not disappoint!
I’m not going to get into a ton of detail because I think it is worth you taking the time to read. It wasn’t just your normal paranormal plot. Because it involved teenagers the author also threw in normal everyday problems and issues that they actually deal with so it didn’t seem like your “typical” paranormal book. It almost seemed normal. If that makes any sense!
So this book is about Kat and she is sent to a high school specifically for “gifted children”. Now, I don’t mean smart or above average IQ, I mean telekinesis, controlling the elements, being able to read people’s minds gifted. Kat came here after an incident at her old high school where she absentmindedly used her powers and someone saw her. After her first two weeks here, things finally are falling into place and she has a small group of friends and a possible boyfriend. She starts to think that being away from her family and being here might not be so bad after all.
That is when the dreams start for her of a boy that she has never met before, as well as a weird pull she begins to have towards the woods that surround the school. There is suspense when she finds out what or who is in the woods, what she really is and what heavy weighted decisions she will have to make. Along with all this, is mystery, boys, first loves, dates and kisses with a little heartbreak as well.
This didn’t end in a cliffhanger but I would definitely be interested in reading books to see what happens to this group in the future. It was a fun read.
4 Stars
Ok, so I am not really one to read or gravitate toward paranormal books but when offered to do a review for this book something made me decide to take a step out of my “smut” shell and go for it. I am so glad I did because it did not disappoint!
I’m not going to get into a ton of detail because I think it is worth you taking the time to read. It wasn’t just your normal paranormal plot. Because it involved teenagers the author also threw in normal everyday problems and issues that they actually deal with so it didn’t seem like your “typical” paranormal book. It almost seemed normal. If that makes any sense!
So this book is about Kat and she is sent to a high school specifically for “gifted children”. Now, I don’t mean smart or above average IQ, I mean telekinesis, controlling the elements, being able to read people’s minds gifted. Kat came here after an incident at her old high school where she absentmindedly used her powers and someone saw her. After her first two weeks here, things finally are falling into place and she has a small group of friends and a possible boyfriend. She starts to think that being away from her family and being here might not be so bad after all.
That is when the dreams start for her of a boy that she has never met before, as well as a weird pull she begins to have towards the woods that surround the school. There is suspense when she finds out what or who is in the woods, what she really is and what heavy weighted decisions she will have to make. Along with all this, is mystery, boys, first loves, dates and kisses with a little heartbreak as well.
This didn’t end in a cliffhanger but I would definitely be interested in reading books to see what happens to this group in the future. It was a fun read.
May 2, 2014
Apparently, this book is a sort of sequel to another series that I only discovered later, but I am glad I discovered the earlier series later. Both series are amazing, but Captivate Me is written from the perspective of a senior in high school and is therefore a tad more pristine.
Captivate Me is a fantasy-type novel with supernatural elements and an alternate reality of sorts, where many humans possess a set of gifts above and beyond regular human capacity. Like everyone at her school, Kat Walsh holds abilities that give her an advantage in times of danger or difficulty. Considering the danger that confronts her when students start disappearing, Kat will need every advantage she can get. Perhaps even more concerning, Kat finds herself irresistibly drawn to the woods behind the school - and the strange group of people who inhabit them. What is happening to the missing students? Can Kat trust her new friends who live in the woods? And perhaps most importantly, should she follow the tug - largely attached to one man - that has gripped her and will not release her?
Seriously, I am so glad that I discovered S.J. Pierce through Captivate Me. One of the first things I learned when reading modern novels was that romance equaled smut. The previous series, The Alyx Rayer series, contains just a tad of slight eroticism, though never graphic and not particularly gratuitous. I still absolutely loved the series and could not even remotely liken it to the smutty, graphic books that flood the "romance" genre. Because I enjoyed Captivate Me's purity and romance, the intensity and slight eroticism of Alyx Rayer did not send me running. I highly recommend Captivate Me. I love Kat, and hope I fall as in love with her as I did with Alyx.
Love both series. Love the author. Can't wait for the rest of the Kat Walsh series!
Captivate Me is a fantasy-type novel with supernatural elements and an alternate reality of sorts, where many humans possess a set of gifts above and beyond regular human capacity. Like everyone at her school, Kat Walsh holds abilities that give her an advantage in times of danger or difficulty. Considering the danger that confronts her when students start disappearing, Kat will need every advantage she can get. Perhaps even more concerning, Kat finds herself irresistibly drawn to the woods behind the school - and the strange group of people who inhabit them. What is happening to the missing students? Can Kat trust her new friends who live in the woods? And perhaps most importantly, should she follow the tug - largely attached to one man - that has gripped her and will not release her?
Seriously, I am so glad that I discovered S.J. Pierce through Captivate Me. One of the first things I learned when reading modern novels was that romance equaled smut. The previous series, The Alyx Rayer series, contains just a tad of slight eroticism, though never graphic and not particularly gratuitous. I still absolutely loved the series and could not even remotely liken it to the smutty, graphic books that flood the "romance" genre. Because I enjoyed Captivate Me's purity and romance, the intensity and slight eroticism of Alyx Rayer did not send me running. I highly recommend Captivate Me. I love Kat, and hope I fall as in love with her as I did with Alyx.
Love both series. Love the author. Can't wait for the rest of the Kat Walsh series!
September 4, 2014
Captivate Me is written from the perspective of a teenager. And guess what?
It felt like it.
We teenagers? We have petty problems. We over-react. We like two boys at once. We’re perpetually more curious than we should be. We’re easily swayable. We believe in love at first sight.
Captivate Me brought forth all of these emotions and more. Far too often, books that are supposed to be YA, don’t quite feel like YA. Either the writing is too immature—which makes it middle grade, I guess?—or too mature. But this book was the perfect mix of a teen’s outlook on certain things and the kind of mature thoughts teens are sometimes guilty of having.
Kat was finally somewhere she belonged. Midland Pines—the school for Gifted’s—was where she finally fit in. She no longer had to hide her gift of telekinesis for fear of being called a “witch bitch” and other such shaming words.
Midland Pines was a place where she could finally be herself.
And meanwhile try to get Levi—her cute senior—to kiss her.
But when people start going missing and she feels an almost surreal pull to a mysterious, nameless, invisible boy—Gabriel—whom we later learn about. Of course, then comes the choice Kat has to make.
Levi or Gabriel?
Love or lust?
If I said that I completely loved this book, then I’d be lying. While the book does have a few things that I personally was not a great fan of, it also had parts where the characters did not do what I’d expected them to do at all and they completely took me by surprise.
All in all, Captivate Me is a fast-pace story with angst and romance and drama and an ending that left me happy :D
Find this review and more at Rhea's Neon Journal.
It felt like it.
We teenagers? We have petty problems. We over-react. We like two boys at once. We’re perpetually more curious than we should be. We’re easily swayable. We believe in love at first sight.
Captivate Me brought forth all of these emotions and more. Far too often, books that are supposed to be YA, don’t quite feel like YA. Either the writing is too immature—which makes it middle grade, I guess?—or too mature. But this book was the perfect mix of a teen’s outlook on certain things and the kind of mature thoughts teens are sometimes guilty of having.
Kat was finally somewhere she belonged. Midland Pines—the school for Gifted’s—was where she finally fit in. She no longer had to hide her gift of telekinesis for fear of being called a “witch bitch” and other such shaming words.
Midland Pines was a place where she could finally be herself.
And meanwhile try to get Levi—her cute senior—to kiss her.
But when people start going missing and she feels an almost surreal pull to a mysterious, nameless, invisible boy—Gabriel—whom we later learn about. Of course, then comes the choice Kat has to make.
Levi or Gabriel?
Love or lust?
If I said that I completely loved this book, then I’d be lying. While the book does have a few things that I personally was not a great fan of, it also had parts where the characters did not do what I’d expected them to do at all and they completely took me by surprise.
All in all, Captivate Me is a fast-pace story with angst and romance and drama and an ending that left me happy :D
Find this review and more at Rhea's Neon Journal.
August 17, 2016
Are you in the mood for a paranormal/supernatural read ? Something to mix up the usual reads lately of Dystopian and MC and Stepbrother novels ? In Captivate Me we meet Kat Walsh who is seventeen and gifted, in fact the majority of her family minus her younger brother all fall somewhere on the gifted scale as her mother is a fallen angel and her dad a dream prophet. She has always managed to keep her skills under wraps as of course the world of normals can't seem to handle anything that they can't explain and when running late for class one day she closes her locker without touching and a witness appears , so will start accusations that Kat is a witch .This leads to Kat being sent away to a boarding school for the Gifted where she can learn to embrace her gifts, nurture them and grow. Finally Kat has found somewhere where she can be accepted for who she truly is and be around others like herself and of course having a romance interest of the hottest boy on Campus - Levi is a bonus especially as we can all recall what it was like to be seventeen and in love. What will happen though when Kat starts to have dreams - is she like her father also in the field of dream prophecy ? What happens when the dreams start connecting to things happening in her daily school lives and strange things start turning up in the boarding school ? Has Kat unlocked a power she didn't know she had or is something more sinister at work in the shadows ?
March 9, 2014
S.J. Pierce gave me this ARC for an honest review. I've read all of her other books: Marked for Vengeance, Tethered by Fate, A Race to the Finish, and Destined for Fire. They're all excellent and Captivate Me is just as incredible. What an imagination!
Captivate Me is Kat's story. She's gifted and finds her home at a school with other gifted teens. There are rules, boys, teen angst, decisions, heartbreak, and lots of surprises.
Beautifully written, sweet, and a wonderful start to a new series.
Perfect for teens and adults, especially for fans of Twilight. Except this is better. :)
August 11, 2014
I thought this was a solid effort from S. J. Pierce and fans of the Twilight genre-style will definitely relate to both the characters and the way that the plot unfolds. You get thrown into the action pretty fast and the author doesn’t waste time with a lot of world building. Throughout the book you follow the actions of Kat, a half angel and half human hybrid. She’s gifted with telepathy and as such she attends Midland Pines School for the Gifted. She is referenced by other characters as being very attractive but she seems kind of oblivious to her own attraction, which is kind of cute. She’s very sweet and kind to just about everyone. If I had any criticism about Kat’s character it’s that she seems very one note: she’s sweet and she’s in love. There really isn’t a deeper or darker side to her. There is a quasi-love triangle thing that’s goes on in the book, between steady and supportive Levi and sparkly mysterious Gabriel. Another slight criticism I have is that there really isn’t any background info about angels in the book in spite of the fact that the main characters are half angel. In this book angels just exist there isn’t any explanation of what they do or what purpose they serve. Despite the few personal reservations that I had the book, overall it was well written and very entertaining, it was a fast read and I think that’s always a sign of a good book.
March 5, 2014
Loved it! It was a great story of a girls journey through love and life. She has to make the decisions that ultimately everyone faces at some point from who to love to identity crisis issues.
This book was a paranormal gem! I loved how the author weaved in the paranormal with the everyday dilemmas. I can't wait to read the next one and there better be another one soon!!!
I know she had to chose her guy, but I was happy with the resolution of that. There was also a good twist or two along the way.
This book didn't end in a cliffhanger yet i can't wait for book 2. I highly recommend this mature ya paranormal romance. Five glittery stars for being refreshing!
This book was a paranormal gem! I loved how the author weaved in the paranormal with the everyday dilemmas. I can't wait to read the next one and there better be another one soon!!!
I know she had to chose her guy, but I was happy with the resolution of that. There was also a good twist or two along the way.
This book didn't end in a cliffhanger yet i can't wait for book 2. I highly recommend this mature ya paranormal romance. Five glittery stars for being refreshing!
April 3, 2014
Oh,GOD! This book felt so good! Best Paranormal novel ever in 2014 <3
Entering&The End was great. I couldn't wait anything better. I really love to read something about Angels and this is different. Susan gave us a new window that we are seeing something new,Something more unknown about Angels and I LIKE IT, LOVE IT...
There was no cliffhanger but there are a lot twists that I suspected before the subject.
Captivate Me,Totally captivated me when I read the first blurb and it's a amazing read.
Entering&The End was great. I couldn't wait anything better. I really love to read something about Angels and this is different. Susan gave us a new window that we are seeing something new,Something more unknown about Angels and I LIKE IT, LOVE IT...
There was no cliffhanger but there are a lot twists that I suspected before the subject.
Captivate Me,Totally captivated me when I read the first blurb and it's a amazing read.
August 17, 2016
Review coming up soon.
December 4, 2020
This is a great read for the YA group. It's an entertaining story filled with mystery and suspense as well as tons of emotions. The characters are strong and the story moves fluidly. The author paints her scenes perfectly and kept my attention from start to finish. I enjoyed and would recommend this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
April 2, 2014
Check out the giveaway at my blog for a giveaway and an excerpt too.
Wow, I mean double, Wow. This was amazing!! I was ‘Captivated’ with this amazing, intense story…. And a pleasant surprise awaited me in the note from the author at the end of this book. I had no idea that Kat’s parents, are none other than Alyx Ryder and Isaac Walsh, from the other series, The Alyx Ryder Chronicles. I had read books one and two, but didn’t know book three was out, so missed out on reading that one. So I didn’t even know how that series had ended, much less them having a kid.
Knowing that now, looking back in this book, I was had a new perspective on the great relationship Kat had with her parents. Just an awesome read.
This book is a non-stop, edge of your seat, action packed read, with some sweet hot scenes too. I really liked Gabe, and his connection with Kat. How the whole captivated part was done was brilliant.
There are some twist and turns in the plot that I did not see coming. I was very shocked and one main twist, and can’t believe I didn’t see it. This book is written very well.
Below the review is a teaser on a picture of the models from the cover I think, looks like it. Must be Gabe and Kat. Its linked to the authors site where I got it.
I don’t want to give anything major away, so will stop now, my gushing on this could end up spoiling something, lol.
I highly recommend this book, regardless if you read the series about her parents.( Alyx Ryer Series) I didn’t even know, and enjoyed it, I found out at the end in the notes from author. So go check this out. Maybe you will want to read the other series after. But again, not a must.
I give this book 5 out of 5 stars. It’s amazing, a favorite and can’t wait for book 2. (No cliffhanger, so that scores high points with me.)
I give the cover 5 out of 5 stars too. It’s amazing, the models are gorgeous, and can easily see them as Kat and Gabe. Covers mean a lot to me, and are very important.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the author for my honest review.
other books related to this series:
Wow, I mean double, Wow. This was amazing!! I was ‘Captivated’ with this amazing, intense story…. And a pleasant surprise awaited me in the note from the author at the end of this book. I had no idea that Kat’s parents, are none other than Alyx Ryder and Isaac Walsh, from the other series, The Alyx Ryder Chronicles. I had read books one and two, but didn’t know book three was out, so missed out on reading that one. So I didn’t even know how that series had ended, much less them having a kid.
Knowing that now, looking back in this book, I was had a new perspective on the great relationship Kat had with her parents. Just an awesome read.
This book is a non-stop, edge of your seat, action packed read, with some sweet hot scenes too. I really liked Gabe, and his connection with Kat. How the whole captivated part was done was brilliant.
There are some twist and turns in the plot that I did not see coming. I was very shocked and one main twist, and can’t believe I didn’t see it. This book is written very well.
Below the review is a teaser on a picture of the models from the cover I think, looks like it. Must be Gabe and Kat. Its linked to the authors site where I got it.
I don’t want to give anything major away, so will stop now, my gushing on this could end up spoiling something, lol.
I highly recommend this book, regardless if you read the series about her parents.( Alyx Ryer Series) I didn’t even know, and enjoyed it, I found out at the end in the notes from author. So go check this out. Maybe you will want to read the other series after. But again, not a must.
I give this book 5 out of 5 stars. It’s amazing, a favorite and can’t wait for book 2. (No cliffhanger, so that scores high points with me.)
I give the cover 5 out of 5 stars too. It’s amazing, the models are gorgeous, and can easily see them as Kat and Gabe. Covers mean a lot to me, and are very important.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the author for my honest review.
other books related to this series:
March 31, 2014
Captivate Me was my first young adult, paranormal, in probably a year and I was very much looking forward to it. The story centers around Kat a young girl who has been sent to a special high school for the paranormal gifted. Her mother a fallen angel and her father a dream prophet, Kat is one of three siblings and her gift is telekinesis. As the story begins, we find out quickly that Kat is still the "new girl" having only been at this school for two weeks. She's finally feeling safe and accepted by her peers. No longer being tormented by her former classmates in Ireland, where she was called a witch.
We also learn that in the two weeks she's been to this new school, Kat has gotten herself a boyfriend, Levi. He seems quite taken with her but she holds back a bit, unsure of her feelings for him. I grappled with this aspect of their young love. While I commended Kat for having the maturity to know that things between them was new, I also found her to be wishy washy. One minute she liked it when he called her "baby" and the next she wanted to roll her eyes. She even showed signs of jealousy and I would think "good for you, you finally feel something for him" but even those were short lived. It was an internal battle for her and I think she really wanted to like Levi, but she struggled with it. I just wanted her to relax and not push it. She's just a kid, and then I reminded myself of what it was like to be teenager. LOL no way do I want to do that again!
But then Kat begins to have dreams about someone else. A mystery guy who makes her feel all the things she wants to feel for Levi. To add to the mystery, Kat finds herself drawn to the woods, a place that's off limits to the students. That's when things really start to get interesting. All of the upheaval begins at the same time that students start to go missing from the school. And Kat finally comes face to face from the guy in her dreams. This in turn leads to a love triangle, albeit a weak one. On top of all this, Kat learns things about herself that take precedence over any school girl crush. Things that ultimately will change her future.
Although there are many twists and turns in the story, I did feel like I was missing something. Specifically the ending and what felt like hasty declarations of love. It occurred to me that I expected there would be some sort of cliffhanger and a continuation of Kat's story in the next book. Instead Kat and her man say I love you and that's it....fade to black. I was expecting a little more. Does the group of friends stick together? What happens with the new friends? Does Kat make a decision on where she wants to live? I just felt like there was more to the story and I'm not going to get it now. Especially, when I saw that book two will be about a different person. So I guess I just feel unsettled.
All that aside, I thought that Captivate Me was a great start. I love reading about angels and I thought the idea of angels and witches together in a story was unique. I will most likely read book two, perhaps the author plans to wrap things up, or even continue with Kat's story line. Either way I'd like to see where the story goes.
*A copy of this book was kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
August 21, 2016
After an incident at her high school where she used her power of telekinesis in front of a classmate, Kat is sent away to a boarding school for Gifted kids like herself. She loves the freedom of being herself around other similar people with out judgement, and even though she misses her family, she feels like she belongs and may even have a boyfriend. But things get confusing when she starts to receive flowers on her pillow and has dreams about a mysterious boy in the woods. Add in the fact that people are going missing from her school with no trace, and Kat may be in over her head.
I was surprised by what this book actually was about. I expected a paranormal teen book, that dealt with some mystery, lots of interesting paranormal stuff, the angst and drama of teen life, with a dash of romance. Well, I had it backwards- this was a romance book that had a dash of all that other stuff I mentioned. The main focus of the story was about Kat and how she wondered what being in love was actually like. At least the first half was predominantly spent inside Kat's head where she tried to sort out the depth of her feelings towards her sort of boyfriend, and then her new crush. She pondered a LOT about how to tell if she was in love (I think this is a question that a lot of people probably wonder about, but personally if you have to ask then you most likely are not in love). Anyhow, I think I was expecting something in particular so I was a little surprised by the direction the story took. About half way through, the action and intrigue built a little, which I appreciated and it helped to draw me into the book.
Kat was the main character of the book and the story was narrated from her point of view. I found myself liking her and her quirky ways (minus the fact she put herself down physically all the time- I know it is more relatable to most girls/women to doubt their own attractiveness, but for once I would like to have a girl who fully liked herself), I thought she was a good friend/person who seemed really intelligent and down to earth regardless of her upbringing and talents. Kat seemed to have a level head on her shoulders and make well informed decisions instead of rushing into things as most hormonal teenagers are aught to do, and I liked the openness of her relationship with her parents. So I found it a little out of character when she decides to join the half breeds after knowing them for pretty much just a day. Sure she was infatuated, but to just turn into a sheep and ask "how high?" when they told her to jump came as a shock to me. There was a case of insta-love here, which makes me cringe a little because I am not a fan of it, but at least the potential for a love triangle resolved really quickly and Kat even commented that she did not want to make one (which made me like her more).
Overall this was a very interesting idea for a series and with all the twists the plot took as well as the potential threat on the horizon. I would definitely pick up the rest of the books in the series and recommend this to anyone who wants a paranormal romance.
I received this title in return for my honest review.
For more reviews visit my blog at http://smadasbooksmack.blogspot.com/
I was surprised by what this book actually was about. I expected a paranormal teen book, that dealt with some mystery, lots of interesting paranormal stuff, the angst and drama of teen life, with a dash of romance. Well, I had it backwards- this was a romance book that had a dash of all that other stuff I mentioned. The main focus of the story was about Kat and how she wondered what being in love was actually like. At least the first half was predominantly spent inside Kat's head where she tried to sort out the depth of her feelings towards her sort of boyfriend, and then her new crush. She pondered a LOT about how to tell if she was in love (I think this is a question that a lot of people probably wonder about, but personally if you have to ask then you most likely are not in love). Anyhow, I think I was expecting something in particular so I was a little surprised by the direction the story took. About half way through, the action and intrigue built a little, which I appreciated and it helped to draw me into the book.
Kat was the main character of the book and the story was narrated from her point of view. I found myself liking her and her quirky ways (minus the fact she put herself down physically all the time- I know it is more relatable to most girls/women to doubt their own attractiveness, but for once I would like to have a girl who fully liked herself), I thought she was a good friend/person who seemed really intelligent and down to earth regardless of her upbringing and talents. Kat seemed to have a level head on her shoulders and make well informed decisions instead of rushing into things as most hormonal teenagers are aught to do, and I liked the openness of her relationship with her parents. So I found it a little out of character when she decides to join the half breeds after knowing them for pretty much just a day. Sure she was infatuated, but to just turn into a sheep and ask "how high?" when they told her to jump came as a shock to me. There was a case of insta-love here, which makes me cringe a little because I am not a fan of it, but at least the potential for a love triangle resolved really quickly and Kat even commented that she did not want to make one (which made me like her more).
Overall this was a very interesting idea for a series and with all the twists the plot took as well as the potential threat on the horizon. I would definitely pick up the rest of the books in the series and recommend this to anyone who wants a paranormal romance.
I received this title in return for my honest review.
For more reviews visit my blog at http://smadasbooksmack.blogspot.com/
April 13, 2014
“Who knows? He might be the one.”—Kat
Kat is gifted. And I’m not talking smarts; I mean her quirky DNA lets her do telekinesis and her dreams might be a tad bit prophetic. When her secret gets out, she transfers to a new school with other gifted students. Here, she finally discovers where she belongs and gets wonderful new friends and a fabulous boyfriend! Except, people start disappearing and then there’s the invisible boy who has somehow captivated her heart and haunts her dreams. And her new friends? Some of them may actually be out to destroy her and those she loves…
“There’s someone you’re fated to, [Mom] always said. You just have to find them.”—Kat
I enjoyed this book, especially since I wasn’t sure where the author was taking me! The story is quite a ride as we run into twists and shockers. I wasn’t even sure where the love triangle was heading until the very end! Would she get one? Would she get neither? Would any of the characters even survive?
While I enjoyed the tension and the mystery as students started to disappear from Kat’s new school, it took me a while to get into the story since the start is about Kat adjusting to her new life. This is a spin off of another series, so I felt like I was missing some inside information, and wasn’t exactly sure how the paranormal elements of this world mixed in with the normal elements—like where do angels fit in, how do the non-gifted think of magic, etc. There was talk about how in her previous school other students called her names for being telekinetic and pretty much bullied her, but if that happened in my school, I would be freaking out and running the other way. The last thing I would be doing would be bullying someone who could send projectiles my way.
However, we do get a lot of explanation for why Kat’s gifted, and I enjoyed the mythology here as to why some people are gifted and how it’s not all unicorns and rainbows for them. Sure, having powers are great and all, but when you’re being *hunted* for them—not so cool. I loved that we got to see how Kat had to deal with the blessing/curse she’s dealt with once she has all the information. It’s a toughie!
When it comes to romance (very PG and sweet), we have two men vying for Kat’s attention, and I felt so bad for them since I knew she’d only choose one. Kat’s looking for the one who will ‘captivate’ her heart—as her mother tells her of the major once-in-a-lifetime love—and has to face the dilemma of settling or searching. Levi is such a great character as well as her other admirer and it’s so hard to say which is better for her—if either. Considering how mysterious the other guy is in the triangle, I do wish we could have gotten more characterization on him.
Overall, it’s an entertaining book, especially if you enjoy suspense and characters with super-powers. Kat is a great lead, and it’s easy to see why those two fell for her. This is a 4.5 out of 5 for me!
(Originally posted on my blog; I received a copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.)
Kat is gifted. And I’m not talking smarts; I mean her quirky DNA lets her do telekinesis and her dreams might be a tad bit prophetic. When her secret gets out, she transfers to a new school with other gifted students. Here, she finally discovers where she belongs and gets wonderful new friends and a fabulous boyfriend! Except, people start disappearing and then there’s the invisible boy who has somehow captivated her heart and haunts her dreams. And her new friends? Some of them may actually be out to destroy her and those she loves…
“There’s someone you’re fated to, [Mom] always said. You just have to find them.”—Kat
I enjoyed this book, especially since I wasn’t sure where the author was taking me! The story is quite a ride as we run into twists and shockers. I wasn’t even sure where the love triangle was heading until the very end! Would she get one? Would she get neither? Would any of the characters even survive?
While I enjoyed the tension and the mystery as students started to disappear from Kat’s new school, it took me a while to get into the story since the start is about Kat adjusting to her new life. This is a spin off of another series, so I felt like I was missing some inside information, and wasn’t exactly sure how the paranormal elements of this world mixed in with the normal elements—like where do angels fit in, how do the non-gifted think of magic, etc. There was talk about how in her previous school other students called her names for being telekinetic and pretty much bullied her, but if that happened in my school, I would be freaking out and running the other way. The last thing I would be doing would be bullying someone who could send projectiles my way.
However, we do get a lot of explanation for why Kat’s gifted, and I enjoyed the mythology here as to why some people are gifted and how it’s not all unicorns and rainbows for them. Sure, having powers are great and all, but when you’re being *hunted* for them—not so cool. I loved that we got to see how Kat had to deal with the blessing/curse she’s dealt with once she has all the information. It’s a toughie!
When it comes to romance (very PG and sweet), we have two men vying for Kat’s attention, and I felt so bad for them since I knew she’d only choose one. Kat’s looking for the one who will ‘captivate’ her heart—as her mother tells her of the major once-in-a-lifetime love—and has to face the dilemma of settling or searching. Levi is such a great character as well as her other admirer and it’s so hard to say which is better for her—if either. Considering how mysterious the other guy is in the triangle, I do wish we could have gotten more characterization on him.
Overall, it’s an entertaining book, especially if you enjoy suspense and characters with super-powers. Kat is a great lead, and it’s easy to see why those two fell for her. This is a 4.5 out of 5 for me!
(Originally posted on my blog; I received a copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.)
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