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The Shadow Ravens #1
Cipher
***The Shadow Ravens. A futuristic romance series from Ink Monster. ***
In the not-too-distant future, the color of your helix tattoo shows exactly how your DNA was modified—green for super-smart scientists, black for pumped-up warriors, white for the immortal Seligo—but Cipher’s red helix is a death sentence. It’s a sign of unstable DNA, which is probably the reason she can manipulate electricity.
When she was eight years old, Cipher made the mistake of showing her uncle the tattoo. In return, he killed her parents and tried to kidnap her.
She’s been on the run ever since, and twelve long years later, Cipher is tired of hiding. Survival isn’t enough anymore. She wants her life back.
Hacking into the Citadel mainframe is a huge risk, but it pays off when she finds a database on red helixes. Before she can copy it, she loses control of her power, charring her last processor, and the only person in the Arizona Voids that can get her back online is her oldest friend, Knightly. She hasn’t seen him in person since she started running, and Knight 2.0 is fully upgraded with a six-pack and knee-melting smile.
For a girl like Cipher, trust doesn’t come easily, but Knight makes her yearn for a life she knows she can’t have, especially when every secret she reveals endangers them both.
In the not-too-distant future, the color of your helix tattoo shows exactly how your DNA was modified—green for super-smart scientists, black for pumped-up warriors, white for the immortal Seligo—but Cipher’s red helix is a death sentence. It’s a sign of unstable DNA, which is probably the reason she can manipulate electricity.
When she was eight years old, Cipher made the mistake of showing her uncle the tattoo. In return, he killed her parents and tried to kidnap her.
She’s been on the run ever since, and twelve long years later, Cipher is tired of hiding. Survival isn’t enough anymore. She wants her life back.
Hacking into the Citadel mainframe is a huge risk, but it pays off when she finds a database on red helixes. Before she can copy it, she loses control of her power, charring her last processor, and the only person in the Arizona Voids that can get her back online is her oldest friend, Knightly. She hasn’t seen him in person since she started running, and Knight 2.0 is fully upgraded with a six-pack and knee-melting smile.
For a girl like Cipher, trust doesn’t come easily, but Knight makes her yearn for a life she knows she can’t have, especially when every secret she reveals endangers them both.
331 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 14, 2014
347 people are currently reading
4549 people want to read
About the author
Aileen Erin
25 books1,718 followersAileen Erin is half-Irish, half-Mexican and 100% nerd-from Star Wars (prequels don’t count) to Star Trek (TNG FTW), she reads Quenya and some Sindarin, and has a severe fascination with the supernatural. Aileen has a BS in Radio-TV-Film from the University of Texas at Austin, and an MFA in Writing Popular Fiction from Seton Hill University. She lives with her husband, daughter, and mischievous mini bernedoodle in Texas, and spends her days doing her favorite things: reading books, creating worlds, and kicking ass.
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November 11, 2015
Cipher is book one is the brand new Shadow Ravens series by Aileen Erin. I just have to say WOW, just WOW!!! What a fantastic start to a new series. I instantly fell in love with the two main characters. The book was alternately told from both their points of view so we knew at all times what they were thinking and feeling.
Emma’s life was in jeopardy from the moment she was born. She was born with a red helix tattoo. In this society, the color of your helix determines your destiny. Her parents were able to keep her hidden and in control until she was eight years old. It was then that something happened that would change her future forever. Twelve years later she is used to life on the run. She is known as Cipher now, her on line name. She hasn’t used the name Emma in years. The powers that be or Seligo as they are known, want her. There is someone else that wants her, though, but for a different reason.
“Run to Survive. Survive to Live. Live to Love. It was my goal. A distant one, but it was there. My light at the end of the tunnel.”
Hunter Marquez hasn’t seen Emma since she was eight years old. That’s the day she saved his life. He has been searching for her ever since. He is like a double agent. He works for the Seligo but he also works for the Shadow Ravens, a secret group that saves the red helixes from the clutches of the Seligo. But his main goal has always been to find Emma.
“I never was a guy who wanted more than one night, but Emma made me want everything.”
Emma has the unique ability to manipulate electricity. But no matter how hard she tries, she can’t control it. She can kill with one touch. What she doesn’t know is that Hunter has been genetically modified to be her pair, someone that can neutralize her electrical energy. He can teach her to control it. But first he has to find her. Little did either of them know that they had been talking online for years, she as Cipher, and he as Knight.
This book had me on the edge of my seat from page one. I was so relieved when Hunter and Emma finally found each other but that’s when the action really got intense. These two together, were just so sweet. Hunter took Emma to a tropical deserted island for a few days to help her to learn to control her abilities. The few days they had there were magical but of course, their time there was brought to an abrupt end.
“He thought he wanted to help me, but eventually he’d realize I was more trouble than I was worth. Or he’d die trying to save me.”
This book is non-stop, edge of your seat action. But at the same time, there are plenty of sweet moments. There really isn’t a cliff hanger which is a good thing because the next book doesn’t come out for another year. But you are still left with a need to find out what happens next in the battle between the Seligo and the Shadow Ravens.
Thank you so much to Aileen Erin, Ink Monster and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this book. I enjoyed every single page of it.
Emma’s life was in jeopardy from the moment she was born. She was born with a red helix tattoo. In this society, the color of your helix determines your destiny. Her parents were able to keep her hidden and in control until she was eight years old. It was then that something happened that would change her future forever. Twelve years later she is used to life on the run. She is known as Cipher now, her on line name. She hasn’t used the name Emma in years. The powers that be or Seligo as they are known, want her. There is someone else that wants her, though, but for a different reason.
“Run to Survive. Survive to Live. Live to Love. It was my goal. A distant one, but it was there. My light at the end of the tunnel.”
Hunter Marquez hasn’t seen Emma since she was eight years old. That’s the day she saved his life. He has been searching for her ever since. He is like a double agent. He works for the Seligo but he also works for the Shadow Ravens, a secret group that saves the red helixes from the clutches of the Seligo. But his main goal has always been to find Emma.
“I never was a guy who wanted more than one night, but Emma made me want everything.”
Emma has the unique ability to manipulate electricity. But no matter how hard she tries, she can’t control it. She can kill with one touch. What she doesn’t know is that Hunter has been genetically modified to be her pair, someone that can neutralize her electrical energy. He can teach her to control it. But first he has to find her. Little did either of them know that they had been talking online for years, she as Cipher, and he as Knight.
This book had me on the edge of my seat from page one. I was so relieved when Hunter and Emma finally found each other but that’s when the action really got intense. These two together, were just so sweet. Hunter took Emma to a tropical deserted island for a few days to help her to learn to control her abilities. The few days they had there were magical but of course, their time there was brought to an abrupt end.
“He thought he wanted to help me, but eventually he’d realize I was more trouble than I was worth. Or he’d die trying to save me.”
This book is non-stop, edge of your seat action. But at the same time, there are plenty of sweet moments. There really isn’t a cliff hanger which is a good thing because the next book doesn’t come out for another year. But you are still left with a need to find out what happens next in the battle between the Seligo and the Shadow Ravens.
Thank you so much to Aileen Erin, Ink Monster and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this book. I enjoyed every single page of it.
October 10, 2014
I'm going with a 3 star on this one. I didn't hate it and I didn't go fangirl over it.
I'll start with the good:
It's not a bad story line. Cipher is a hacker that can get into just about anything that is known to exist. She hacks into the super secret crap that the story is based on. All the elite people have tattoos of a colored helix on them. They are based on their strengths and they also have had a little genetic enhancements done because of said traits.
Turns out girlie is a red helix. Not so popular with the others. Reds can't control their abilities. Cipher's happens to be she can harness electricity.
I liked both characters that this story was told by. Cipher and Knight are pretty decent for teenagers.
Now the bad:
My kiddo is a gamer so I know that part of the story was missing a few cogs in the wheel. Not obvious but still happened.
Next, and my copy was an arc so this will probably get fixed before publishing was that the uncle (bad dude) well his name got jacked up and was called by something else toward the end of the book. No biggie but I get confused easily.
Now for the mushy shit. I don't like that part but I'm sure there are people that will. I would have rather they just kicked ass and took names instead of all the lovey wovey shit. That's just me though.
All in all it's not a bad little book. Look forward to reading the remaining ones in the series.
I received an arc copy of this book from Netgalley/Ink Monster in exchange for an honest review.
I'll start with the good:
It's not a bad story line. Cipher is a hacker that can get into just about anything that is known to exist. She hacks into the super secret crap that the story is based on. All the elite people have tattoos of a colored helix on them. They are based on their strengths and they also have had a little genetic enhancements done because of said traits.
Turns out girlie is a red helix. Not so popular with the others. Reds can't control their abilities. Cipher's happens to be she can harness electricity.
I liked both characters that this story was told by. Cipher and Knight are pretty decent for teenagers.
Now the bad:
My kiddo is a gamer so I know that part of the story was missing a few cogs in the wheel. Not obvious but still happened.
Next, and my copy was an arc so this will probably get fixed before publishing was that the uncle (bad dude) well his name got jacked up and was called by something else toward the end of the book. No biggie but I get confused easily.
Now for the mushy shit. I don't like that part but I'm sure there are people that will. I would have rather they just kicked ass and took names instead of all the lovey wovey shit. That's just me though.
All in all it's not a bad little book. Look forward to reading the remaining ones in the series.
I received an arc copy of this book from Netgalley/Ink Monster in exchange for an honest review.
April 3, 2018
Age Rating: Young Adult with Swearing
Source: Netgalley
I read this book in a day and stayed up past one in the morning to do so. It’s short and quick paced, if a bit predictable.
The Good:
The Dual first person perspective worked and I actually liked both of the main characters. (A rarity.) Their voices were different enough that I didn’t get them confused (though I didn’t put the book down much) and they each had their own special skills. It’s great when both of the main characters kick butt!
The futuristic world was awesome! I loved the technology we got to see, but being told by people who live there it wasn’t explained much.
I’ve seen female friendships discussed on several blogs recently and I’m happy to say I’ve found another book with a good friendship! Cipher has a good close female friend in Mona. (Who happily doesn’t get tossed aside when a man comes into the picture.) Mona’s not a character I’d usually like, because she really cares about how she looks (the whole clothes and makeup thing) and she’s really into flirting with guys, but she stuck by Cipher and genuinely cared.
I really liked all of the minor characters, they weren’t in the book much, but I still found myself caring about them.
The romance is one of the best and worst parts of the book. The dynamic between Cipher and Knight was great, especially when they were joking with each other. I did feel the connection between them BUT
The Bad:
Though the romance wasn’t love at first sight, it seemed really intense too quickly, (Especially from Knight’s perspective.) I could’ve done with a bit less ‘now that we’re together she’s the only one for me’ bit and had it progress more slowly. I think if it were only told from Cipher’s point of view it would’ve been better in this instance.
I didn’t like the whole tied together to control her abilities thing. (Not a spoiler, told about in the second chapter) It wasn’t explained much and I didn’t really see the point, it would’ve been better if Knight was just made so he wouldn’t die being around her.
There was a little time jump right before the ‘last battle’ and I wanted a tiny bit more beforehand, because they said something would almost impossible and then poof it happened with no explanation. (Sorry trying not to spoil anything and probably no one else even noticed this.)
I wanted a little bit more at the end. I was left with lots of questions. How did the red helix’ start? Everyone else was modified later in life, so why are reds born this way? How did the world get to be how it is? How is the government set up?
Okay, that seemed like a lot of bad, I promise this is a good book! I’d recommend it, but you have to like romantic science fiction and not just plain sci-fi.
Source: Netgalley
I read this book in a day and stayed up past one in the morning to do so. It’s short and quick paced, if a bit predictable.
The Good:
The Dual first person perspective worked and I actually liked both of the main characters. (A rarity.) Their voices were different enough that I didn’t get them confused (though I didn’t put the book down much) and they each had their own special skills. It’s great when both of the main characters kick butt!
The futuristic world was awesome! I loved the technology we got to see, but being told by people who live there it wasn’t explained much.
I’ve seen female friendships discussed on several blogs recently and I’m happy to say I’ve found another book with a good friendship! Cipher has a good close female friend in Mona. (Who happily doesn’t get tossed aside when a man comes into the picture.) Mona’s not a character I’d usually like, because she really cares about how she looks (the whole clothes and makeup thing) and she’s really into flirting with guys, but she stuck by Cipher and genuinely cared.
I really liked all of the minor characters, they weren’t in the book much, but I still found myself caring about them.
The romance is one of the best and worst parts of the book. The dynamic between Cipher and Knight was great, especially when they were joking with each other. I did feel the connection between them BUT
The Bad:
Though the romance wasn’t love at first sight, it seemed really intense too quickly, (Especially from Knight’s perspective.) I could’ve done with a bit less ‘now that we’re together she’s the only one for me’ bit and had it progress more slowly. I think if it were only told from Cipher’s point of view it would’ve been better in this instance.
I didn’t like the whole tied together to control her abilities thing. (Not a spoiler, told about in the second chapter) It wasn’t explained much and I didn’t really see the point, it would’ve been better if Knight was just made so he wouldn’t die being around her.
There was a little time jump right before the ‘last battle’ and I wanted a tiny bit more beforehand, because they said something would almost impossible and then poof it happened with no explanation. (Sorry trying not to spoil anything and probably no one else even noticed this.)
I wanted a little bit more at the end. I was left with lots of questions. How did the red helix’ start? Everyone else was modified later in life, so why are reds born this way? How did the world get to be how it is? How is the government set up?
Okay, that seemed like a lot of bad, I promise this is a good book! I’d recommend it, but you have to like romantic science fiction and not just plain sci-fi.
April 27, 2017
I think this is the first time I purposely looked for sci-fi books to read.
OH BOY! It was such a pleasant surprise.
I mean I still did not stray far from the romance genre which is my go-to.
I will be honest I read generally to get away and not to feel many raw emotions so I tend to stay away from those deep-feels kind of books.
I prefer my la-la land where the H will remain endlessly in love with h and gives me bubbles and unicorns and glitter.
Don't Judge
ANYWHOO...
Let me tell you the dystopian world worked nicely within the plot. I would wish the author gave the characters a better chance to develop and add to the plot rather than cliche explosions just added for the fact of adding.
You know the fast and furious movies where cars/planes/submarines? are added just so the movies are taken to a "grander scale".. just to see how many more explosions could be added
Well that was the feeling I felt towards the end of the book, the flow felt a bit abrupt.
Really the 4th star is for the H and his dedication and humour and...HIM!
I did wish that the h used more skills and was more proactive.
We had the typical bad guy because why not?
I enjoyed it nonetheless!
OH BOY! It was such a pleasant surprise.
I mean I still did not stray far from the romance genre which is my go-to.
I will be honest I read generally to get away and not to feel many raw emotions so I tend to stay away from those deep-feels kind of books.
I prefer my la-la land where the H will remain endlessly in love with h and gives me bubbles and unicorns and glitter.
Don't Judge
ANYWHOO...
Let me tell you the dystopian world worked nicely within the plot. I would wish the author gave the characters a better chance to develop and add to the plot rather than cliche explosions just added for the fact of adding.
You know the fast and furious movies where cars/planes/submarines? are added just so the movies are taken to a "grander scale".. just to see how many more explosions could be added
Well that was the feeling I felt towards the end of the book, the flow felt a bit abrupt.
Really the 4th star is for the H and his dedication and humour and...HIM!
I did wish that the h used more skills and was more proactive.
We had the typical bad guy because why not?
I enjoyed it nonetheless!
September 28, 2015
This was actually a really great book. I really hope the Author will do another book On Cipher. I want to know what else will happen.
March 12, 2016
Cipher has a very compelling short and it immediately drew my eye. It is not often I see a book which promises a strong female lead that is a Game and Hack wizz on tech department and has special powers!
The described world is futuristic however it has a feel as though the world has crumbled through disaster, almost giving it a post apocalyptic/dystopian air. That being said, the writing makes it a lot less serious/intense then I believe the story could have been.
The style is cool. Language is current and swearwords and slang are used to make the writing appear more edgy.
We get a quick introduction to Cipher who is an 'always on the run' loner with great hacking skills. The start was great and we get thrown right into her action. She is trying to find out more about herself but then lands herself in a bit of trouble. The world has people with 'Special skills' marked through a helix on a persons skin. Unfortunately we do not learn a whole lot of this. It gets mentioned here and there and it leaves me wondering how they came about.
From here on out I am starting to grind my teeth a little bit. Even though the situation clearly is more on the serious side, the actions and reactions of our main girl are no where near what I expected. From the story we can make out that Cipher is 20. However from her persona in the book she comes across as 14/15.
Then we get introduced to Knight, who is our second lead (the book is in dual persona, switching characters per chapter). I like him but I also find him a little delusional. He is looking for a girl that once saved him, a girl with abilities ie Cipher (all though he does not realize it is her just yet) and the reason why is because she took care of his abusing old man at a young age.
At this stage the two meet and you've guessed it.. I can feel the cavities appearing in my teeth at the instalove. Undeniably there is a history between the two and I am in a sense invested to see them work the connection out but That is just a one way ticket to the Dr Phill show..
Im digressing however..
They come to the final confrontation and we are left with a conclusion which only felt like a big introduction and some wild packed action to sweeten the deal. The book is not long and the story line and writing could have been polished and lengthened a lot more.
The story has major potential and loads of directions to go into with the next instalments (I believe 4 are planned in the series at this stage co written by 3 authors). So I silently have the hope that the next will be better.
I also like Ciphers initial identity. I was a little disappointed that this slowly got stripped away. It would have also been nice to see a bit more hacking action.
Overall would I recommend it?
Yes - To people I know that can look past minor issues and are part of the gaming/tech community with a love for books :D
No - To anyone with a aversion to little worldbuilding, instalove and not so fantastic writing.
March 13, 2015
جالب بود
یه خورده از اون چیزی که انتظار داشتم ضعیف تر بود ولی جالب بود
بخاطر این میگم ضعیف بود چون انتظار داشتم نویسنده در مورد اون جامعه بیشتر توضیح بده..مسئله ی ژن ها و خالکوبی ها رو بیشتر باز کنه...ولی شاید میخواد جلد بعد این ابهامات رو برطرف کنه؟!
از طرف دیگه هم یه دفعه ای خیلیییییی رمانتیک شد://...اصلا عشق بین صیفر(صایفر؟) و هانتر یه دفعه ای خیلی عمیق شد!...اینم باز یه خورده داستانو ضعیف کرده بود چون خیلی یه جوری بود://
ولی باز چند چپتر اخر جبران کرد و خیلیییی روند داستان تند و هیجان انگیز شد!!یعنی وحشت ناک تند شد!
حالا که بهتر فک میکنم میبینم واقعا جالب بود!!ایده ی ژن هاش محشر بود!..اصلا هم هیچ شباهتی به دایورجنت نداره!..این یه کتاب کاملا متفاوت با یه دنیای کاملا متفاوته!...من دنیای این کتابو بیشتر از دایورجنت دوست دارمXD
دختری که نیروی الکتریکی داشته باشه اونم بخاطر نوع ویژه ای از کد بندی ژن ها ایده ی نسبتا جدیدی بود!..بله در این یه مورد یه شباهت هایی به دایورجنت داره ولی در حد پنج درصد!..داستانو بخونین منظورمو میفهمین!
خود شخصیت صیفر رو هم دوست داشتم!..شخصیت هانتر رو هم همینطور ولی نمیدونم چرا به دوستاشون اعتماد ندارم..همه ش فک می کنم مونا جاسوسه!
تا جلد بعد ببینیم چی میشه:-"
+اسم صیفر رو با صاد نوشتم چون معنی لغویش میشه صفر!:-D
+اون تیکه که صیفر لو رفت بعد هانتر بهت زده شد که این اون دختر کوچولوی بی دفاع معصوم خنگ نیس بلکه یه هکر مغر کامپیوتر معروفه که سالهاس تنها و پنهانی زندگی میکنه خعلی باحال بود!..اصلا من خر ذوق شده بودم در حد بگم چی!!XD
پ.ن:من الان رفتم خلاصه جلد دو رو خوندم..و فهمیدم ظاهرا داستان کلا عوض میشه!:-؟...نهههه من نمیخوام عوض بشن:((
یه خورده از اون چیزی که انتظار داشتم ضعیف تر بود ولی جالب بود
بخاطر این میگم ضعیف بود چون انتظار داشتم نویسنده در مورد اون جامعه بیشتر توضیح بده..مسئله ی ژن ها و خالکوبی ها رو بیشتر باز کنه...ولی شاید میخواد جلد بعد این ابهامات رو برطرف کنه؟!
از طرف دیگه هم یه دفعه ای خیلیییییی رمانتیک شد://...اصلا عشق بین صیفر(صایفر؟) و هانتر یه دفعه ای خیلی عمیق شد!...اینم باز یه خورده داستانو ضعیف کرده بود چون خیلی یه جوری بود://
ولی باز چند چپتر اخر جبران کرد و خیلیییی روند داستان تند و هیجان انگیز شد!!یعنی وحشت ناک تند شد!
حالا که بهتر فک میکنم میبینم واقعا جالب بود!!ایده ی ژن هاش محشر بود!..اصلا هم هیچ شباهتی به دایورجنت نداره!..این یه کتاب کاملا متفاوت با یه دنیای کاملا متفاوته!...من دنیای این کتابو بیشتر از دایورجنت دوست دارمXD
دختری که نیروی الکتریکی داشته باشه اونم بخاطر نوع ویژه ای از کد بندی ژن ها ایده ی نسبتا جدیدی بود!..بله در این یه مورد یه شباهت هایی به دایورجنت داره ولی در حد پنج درصد!..داستانو بخونین منظورمو میفهمین!
خود شخصیت صیفر رو هم دوست داشتم!..شخصیت هانتر رو هم همینطور ولی نمیدونم چرا به دوستاشون اعتماد ندارم..همه ش فک می کنم مونا جاسوسه!
تا جلد بعد ببینیم چی میشه:-"
+اسم صیفر رو با صاد نوشتم چون معنی لغویش میشه صفر!:-D
+اون تیکه که صیفر لو رفت بعد هانتر بهت زده شد که این اون دختر کوچولوی بی دفاع معصوم خنگ نیس بلکه یه هکر مغر کامپیوتر معروفه که سالهاس تنها و پنهانی زندگی میکنه خعلی باحال بود!..اصلا من خر ذوق شده بودم در حد بگم چی!!XD
پ.ن:من الان رفتم خلاصه جلد دو رو خوندم..و فهمیدم ظاهرا داستان کلا عوض میشه!:-؟...نهههه من نمیخوام عوض بشن:((
30-next-up
October 15, 2014Today (17/7/2014) I got a preview of the first few chapters.
Interesting and I'd like to read more, however, I still have the need to point out;
Some authors have trade marks. Of you're an avid reader you probably noticed it. Aileen Erin have to. It's not something I can point out to so easily, but by the first few paragraphs I saw the similarities to the Alpha girl series-
There is something similar in the MC's voice. There is something similar in their traits. Moreover, they both have powers that are quite similar in their basest level.
I do want to read this, and I hope this one will avoid the tropes and things that annoyed me in the Alpha Girl series.
Interesting and I'd like to read more, however, I still have the need to point out;
Some authors have trade marks. Of you're an avid reader you probably noticed it. Aileen Erin have to. It's not something I can point out to so easily, but by the first few paragraphs I saw the similarities to the Alpha girl series-
There is something similar in the MC's voice. There is something similar in their traits. Moreover, they both have powers that are quite similar in their basest level.
I do want to read this, and I hope this one will avoid the tropes and things that annoyed me in the Alpha Girl series.
August 4, 2017
i just got addicted to aileen erin s books.. this one is just perfection a new world.. new story with such an interesting characters.. the thing with aileen is that she has this incredible and fascinating imagination and everytime i read her books i just can t stoop. a page became a chapter.. untill i finish the book in just maybe 6hours max.. i love u for being you aileen
ps : i hope you ll continu the story of cipher and am looking forward to the alpha series.. hell am looking forward to any book u ll write luv u
ps : i hope you ll continu the story of cipher and am looking forward to the alpha series.. hell am looking forward to any book u ll write luv u
July 18, 2025
IT WAS SOO GOOODDDDD
ok if your name is Aileen Erin
Aka
The author
Stop reading here.
The beginning of this book we get introduced to this total pick me cipher. Yk the whole 9 yards. Blue hair super skinny 5 foot nothing but also the most feared person of all time. And then we meet knight. 11/10 very very good. Without his presence I would have not continued with this book. And for his contributions allow we got this 5 star rating. I also liked how this book was most likely the inspiration for every 2020 TikTok pov. If I were to recommend this book it would come with warnings. Cuz this author didn’t know how to cuss. Like seriously in the first chapter I could count around 5 miss used profanities. Was funny tho so again 5 stars. The cover is special to say the least. Ok yay
ok if your name is Aileen Erin
Aka
The author
Stop reading here.
The beginning of this book we get introduced to this total pick me cipher. Yk the whole 9 yards. Blue hair super skinny 5 foot nothing but also the most feared person of all time. And then we meet knight. 11/10 very very good. Without his presence I would have not continued with this book. And for his contributions allow we got this 5 star rating. I also liked how this book was most likely the inspiration for every 2020 TikTok pov. If I were to recommend this book it would come with warnings. Cuz this author didn’t know how to cuss. Like seriously in the first chapter I could count around 5 miss used profanities. Was funny tho so again 5 stars. The cover is special to say the least. Ok yay
December 31, 2022
Good not great
The plot is good. The characters are good. However, each scene was cut so fast that it was like reading at hyperspeed and only getting the most important bits. While I am glad the scenes were not super drawn out I think it could have been filled up more. We never learn the real motive about the Uncle and the Lady. Or what happens between the main characters. This may get wrapped up in another book but it looks like the next book is a completely different character.
The plot is good. The characters are good. However, each scene was cut so fast that it was like reading at hyperspeed and only getting the most important bits. While I am glad the scenes were not super drawn out I think it could have been filled up more. We never learn the real motive about the Uncle and the Lady. Or what happens between the main characters. This may get wrapped up in another book but it looks like the next book is a completely different character.
August 13, 2018
Great read, ending was a little vague and open ended.
October 23, 2014
4*s
Review posted here...
http://bookpassionforlife.blogspot.co...
Cipher was a good read and I really enjoyed it!
The synopsis is spot on and I can’t say anymore so straight onto my thoughts about the book…..
The book is named for the main female character who uses the name as an online persona and to stop people from knowing her true identity. She is a computer hacker and gamer extraordinaire but she also has a secret and that is that she has a Red Helix, those with the mark are classed as having unstable DNA and usually it means a death sentence, so Cipher has spent most her life running from the Seligo – the governing body of their world and who are immortal – and most of all her uncle who is Seligo. She was very easy to connect with and I loved her hacking skills, it’s strange that she would focus her energies on computers and such because her power – manipulating electricity - is unstable and it often fries her hardware which is how Knight is brought back into her life. Speaking of Knight, I loved his character and he straddled the boundaries of hotness and geekiness – making him a very good match for Cipher. I loved their shared background and how this had spurred him on to find her for 12yrs! He became all about finding her & protecting her, even going so far as to make a huge sacrifice for her and I admired that in him, it gave his character another depth. I loved them together too, they have this great, easy, fluid nature to their relationship and could be the basis for a lasting relationship of the heart, I know I was routing for them all of the way through.
I thought the storyline was fresh and different. I like the idea behind the world the author created with the different helixes denoting different abilities or classes. There is always someone in power who would abuse that position and Cipher’s Uncle is that in this story, he is determined to find her regardless of cost or casualties, which begs the question….why? Also, when you have a hierarchy like this, there are always underdogs and that always means the little people will rise up and expose those in power for what they are and what they’re doing because they powers that be do have an enemy and they’re about to come out of the woodwork for Cipher. The story was filled with action be it from exploding lights & hard drives to run & chase scenarios and even helicopter ambushes, it had great pacing and even time for a little romance (which was hot!) . This book is definitely an introduction to the world and I was very interested, it was easy to read, not overly complicated and a series that I could see myself getting right into, so I will definitely be on the lookout for book two.
Review posted here...
http://bookpassionforlife.blogspot.co...
Cipher was a good read and I really enjoyed it!
The synopsis is spot on and I can’t say anymore so straight onto my thoughts about the book…..
The book is named for the main female character who uses the name as an online persona and to stop people from knowing her true identity. She is a computer hacker and gamer extraordinaire but she also has a secret and that is that she has a Red Helix, those with the mark are classed as having unstable DNA and usually it means a death sentence, so Cipher has spent most her life running from the Seligo – the governing body of their world and who are immortal – and most of all her uncle who is Seligo. She was very easy to connect with and I loved her hacking skills, it’s strange that she would focus her energies on computers and such because her power – manipulating electricity - is unstable and it often fries her hardware which is how Knight is brought back into her life. Speaking of Knight, I loved his character and he straddled the boundaries of hotness and geekiness – making him a very good match for Cipher. I loved their shared background and how this had spurred him on to find her for 12yrs! He became all about finding her & protecting her, even going so far as to make a huge sacrifice for her and I admired that in him, it gave his character another depth. I loved them together too, they have this great, easy, fluid nature to their relationship and could be the basis for a lasting relationship of the heart, I know I was routing for them all of the way through.
I thought the storyline was fresh and different. I like the idea behind the world the author created with the different helixes denoting different abilities or classes. There is always someone in power who would abuse that position and Cipher’s Uncle is that in this story, he is determined to find her regardless of cost or casualties, which begs the question….why? Also, when you have a hierarchy like this, there are always underdogs and that always means the little people will rise up and expose those in power for what they are and what they’re doing because they powers that be do have an enemy and they’re about to come out of the woodwork for Cipher. The story was filled with action be it from exploding lights & hard drives to run & chase scenarios and even helicopter ambushes, it had great pacing and even time for a little romance (which was hot!) . This book is definitely an introduction to the world and I was very interested, it was easy to read, not overly complicated and a series that I could see myself getting right into, so I will definitely be on the lookout for book two.
September 5, 2016
"Having someone to lose also meant that I had something to fight for. For him. And us."
Fantastic Dystopian world, filled with loveable characters! I couldn't get enough of Cipher, absolutely stunning.
Cipher has been on the run ever since she was 8 years old. She's a Red, a she was supposed to die after being born. With special powers of being able to conduct electricity, Cipher is seen as a threat to society, and is hunted by her uncle, who wants nothing more than to see her dead.
Knight is desperate to find Cipher. The little girl who once saved his life is in danger, and all he wants to do is be able to repay that favour from when they were 8, when both their lives changed forever. Joining forces with the Shadow Raves, Knight works as double agent to get close to Cipher's location. He wasn't counting on falling in love with his childhood friend, could they have a chance at love? If they manage to both get out alive?
I am so in love with the world created by Aileen Erin, Lola Dodge, and Christina Bauer. It has a hint of the typical dystopian society, yet it takes on a brand new twist. Similar to The Giver and Divergent combined.
I absolutely love Cipher, she is a wonderful main character. She's smart, independent and caring. She has almost everything I look for in a good main character. All she wants to do is blend in, stay safe and have a chance at having a normal life. I respect and agree with all the decisions she made in this book, there wasn't a thing about her character that disappointed me.
The one problem I had with his book, is the romance. While I am so happy that this book does not have insta love, (since the characters knew each other when they were little and obviously didn't fall head over heels in love with each other then,) I wasn't a big fan of how Knight was acting towards Cipher. In the real world, if I just met a guy and within a day he was already acting like my boyfriend and being super controlling and protective of me, I would probably tell him to piss off. Knight definitely comes on super strong, almost in a way that seemed kinda creepy. The only way I would ever stick around with a guy like that is if he was supermodel hot, or maybe I was Cipher and could actually use someone's help. Near the end of the book, I finally got used to Knight's character and actually thought they would be pretty cute together. Given that he's not my type of guy, I still ship him and Cipher!
Overall, I highly recommend this book. Absolutely perfect for all dystopian and action lovers! It has a great world, great characters, and tons of potential for the rest of the series. I can't wait to read the next one.
Happy Reading,
- Aneta
Fantastic Dystopian world, filled with loveable characters! I couldn't get enough of Cipher, absolutely stunning.
Cipher has been on the run ever since she was 8 years old. She's a Red, a she was supposed to die after being born. With special powers of being able to conduct electricity, Cipher is seen as a threat to society, and is hunted by her uncle, who wants nothing more than to see her dead.
Knight is desperate to find Cipher. The little girl who once saved his life is in danger, and all he wants to do is be able to repay that favour from when they were 8, when both their lives changed forever. Joining forces with the Shadow Raves, Knight works as double agent to get close to Cipher's location. He wasn't counting on falling in love with his childhood friend, could they have a chance at love? If they manage to both get out alive?
I am so in love with the world created by Aileen Erin, Lola Dodge, and Christina Bauer. It has a hint of the typical dystopian society, yet it takes on a brand new twist. Similar to The Giver and Divergent combined.
I absolutely love Cipher, she is a wonderful main character. She's smart, independent and caring. She has almost everything I look for in a good main character. All she wants to do is blend in, stay safe and have a chance at having a normal life. I respect and agree with all the decisions she made in this book, there wasn't a thing about her character that disappointed me.
The one problem I had with his book, is the romance. While I am so happy that this book does not have insta love, (since the characters knew each other when they were little and obviously didn't fall head over heels in love with each other then,) I wasn't a big fan of how Knight was acting towards Cipher. In the real world, if I just met a guy and within a day he was already acting like my boyfriend and being super controlling and protective of me, I would probably tell him to piss off. Knight definitely comes on super strong, almost in a way that seemed kinda creepy. The only way I would ever stick around with a guy like that is if he was supermodel hot, or maybe I was Cipher and could actually use someone's help. Near the end of the book, I finally got used to Knight's character and actually thought they would be pretty cute together. Given that he's not my type of guy, I still ship him and Cipher!
Overall, I highly recommend this book. Absolutely perfect for all dystopian and action lovers! It has a great world, great characters, and tons of potential for the rest of the series. I can't wait to read the next one.
Happy Reading,
- Aneta
December 19, 2014
I actually won this in a Goodreads First Reads giveaway.
This was actually a great book. However, there are so much annoying little things that just kept adding up where it now frustrates me. I literally just finished the book; in one sitting I've finished Cipher, so I'm still absorbing everything:
This whole "love" thing with Hunter and Emma is kinda stupid. They may have known each other 12 years ago, but they were kids. Now they "love" each other after a few days? Looks don't make you fall in love with someone. They don't really know each other. This "love" all just seems rushed and annoyingly predictable.
I hated that Hunter had a POV after every other chapter. I would have preferred his feelings a little more secretive, not him being horny and madly in love with an almost stranger.
I also didn't like that Emma would call him Knight instead of Hunter. Knight is someone she doesn't now, and she happens to love Knight? What happened to Hunter? She barely called him Hunter. Hunter on the other hand, always called her Emma or other forms of endearment. Hunter is in love with who Emma was, he doesn't know Cipher. Emma is intrigued by Knight, but DOESNT KNOW HIM, he's not Hunter. People change, I think the author glanced over this obvious humans' way of life. It's called growing up, aging, changing. This story depicts some form of an almost "love at first sight," but fail to follow through.
I also just found out that the next two books will be written by different authors... Why?? And then Emma/Cipher doesn't come back until 2017, while also being cowritten by the other two authors. I'm not sure why these three authors are doing something so weird. Why must I read this series, already loving Aileen Erin's writing, but now have to read another form of writing with new characters?!
Really I'm just exhausted. Started reading around 8:30 pm and now it's 3:16 am. I need some sleep. Hope you enjoyed my rambling. If you've noticed, I started only writing my reviews about my complaints of the book, even if it received high star reviews.
UPDATED:
Ugh so i also just realized that this book is quiet similar to the Darkest Minds trilogy....
This was actually a great book. However, there are so much annoying little things that just kept adding up where it now frustrates me. I literally just finished the book; in one sitting I've finished Cipher, so I'm still absorbing everything:
This whole "love" thing with Hunter and Emma is kinda stupid. They may have known each other 12 years ago, but they were kids. Now they "love" each other after a few days? Looks don't make you fall in love with someone. They don't really know each other. This "love" all just seems rushed and annoyingly predictable.
I hated that Hunter had a POV after every other chapter. I would have preferred his feelings a little more secretive, not him being horny and madly in love with an almost stranger.
I also didn't like that Emma would call him Knight instead of Hunter. Knight is someone she doesn't now, and she happens to love Knight? What happened to Hunter? She barely called him Hunter. Hunter on the other hand, always called her Emma or other forms of endearment. Hunter is in love with who Emma was, he doesn't know Cipher. Emma is intrigued by Knight, but DOESNT KNOW HIM, he's not Hunter. People change, I think the author glanced over this obvious humans' way of life. It's called growing up, aging, changing. This story depicts some form of an almost "love at first sight," but fail to follow through.
I also just found out that the next two books will be written by different authors... Why?? And then Emma/Cipher doesn't come back until 2017, while also being cowritten by the other two authors. I'm not sure why these three authors are doing something so weird. Why must I read this series, already loving Aileen Erin's writing, but now have to read another form of writing with new characters?!
Really I'm just exhausted. Started reading around 8:30 pm and now it's 3:16 am. I need some sleep. Hope you enjoyed my rambling. If you've noticed, I started only writing my reviews about my complaints of the book, even if it received high star reviews.
UPDATED:
Ugh so i also just realized that this book is quiet similar to the Darkest Minds trilogy....
October 15, 2014
I am very much on the edge about CIPHER. There were a lot of things I really enjoyed about it, but then there was so much left out that after the fact I feel like I missed half the book.
Cipher is an interesting character. She's a red helix that escaped death as an infant and is constantly on the run, hiding from her uncle and those that are out to eliminate her kind. I felt like the author did a pretty decent job of giving us her back story and explaining who she is. Knight is a Shadow Raven who's devoted his life to searching for the little girl who saved his life when he was little. He is also working undercover for the bad guys who hunt down and kill red helix babies, in hopes of saving as many of them as he possibly can. We find out that they share a past pretty quickly and although they both have memories of the other I just didn't feel like they KNEW each other enough now for the relationship they had by the end of the book.
I am really bummed to see that book 2 will be following different main characters for the reason i just listed. I really enjoyed getting to know Cipher and Knight, but I don't feel like I am done learning about them. They JUST started a relationship and still have a lot to learn about each other and I feel like we are being cut off way too soon. Hopefully Cipher and Knight will be involved in book 2 as well so we can get to know them a little more.
We only scraped off the tip of the world and the characters in The Shadow Ravens series with CIPHER and really wish the author would have dug a little more into everything. So although I enjoyed this book, I am left feeling like I really needed more. Even after saying that, I will most likely pick up book 2, Quanta, when it comes out.
* This book was provided free of charge from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Cipher is an interesting character. She's a red helix that escaped death as an infant and is constantly on the run, hiding from her uncle and those that are out to eliminate her kind. I felt like the author did a pretty decent job of giving us her back story and explaining who she is. Knight is a Shadow Raven who's devoted his life to searching for the little girl who saved his life when he was little. He is also working undercover for the bad guys who hunt down and kill red helix babies, in hopes of saving as many of them as he possibly can. We find out that they share a past pretty quickly and although they both have memories of the other I just didn't feel like they KNEW each other enough now for the relationship they had by the end of the book.
I am really bummed to see that book 2 will be following different main characters for the reason i just listed. I really enjoyed getting to know Cipher and Knight, but I don't feel like I am done learning about them. They JUST started a relationship and still have a lot to learn about each other and I feel like we are being cut off way too soon. Hopefully Cipher and Knight will be involved in book 2 as well so we can get to know them a little more.
We only scraped off the tip of the world and the characters in The Shadow Ravens series with CIPHER and really wish the author would have dug a little more into everything. So although I enjoyed this book, I am left feeling like I really needed more. Even after saying that, I will most likely pick up book 2, Quanta, when it comes out.
* This book was provided free of charge from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 6, 2016
Oooooh! Right in the feels!
Wow, simply wow. Alieen, you are the master of hitting me right in feels. I L-O-V-E-D this book so much!
Thank you for the honor of being one of the first to read it. The only real complaint I have about it is that I want more! Its rare that I can’t find at least a few faults in a novel, but Cipher seems to be the true exception. Its humor, romance and action had me so hooked. If there is something wrong with this book, I was too distracted to notice. I totally recommend this book. Cipher, and Knight are the coolest characters ever. Super computer hacker, Cipher in on the run from their equivalent of the government. Why? Because she was born with unstable genetics. They (The crazies in charge) think people like her are too dangerous to live. Therefor they kill people like her as babies. Luckily for her, a group called the Shadow Ravens saved her.
People call people like Cipher, Reds, they are dangerous because of the powers they get from their genetics. Cipher has super powers. She can control electricity. Mind that I say "control" lightly. Where does this Knight guy come in? Knight knew Cipher from before she went on the run. She saved his life, and he wants to repay her... Oh yah, and he might or might not be in love with her. ;)
Two epic people, love, hackers, and explosions lead to an amazing read. I recommend it all the way! I happily give Cipher FIVE STARS!
Want more of me? Go to: http://thenotsopubliclibrary.blogspot...
Wow, simply wow. Alieen, you are the master of hitting me right in feels. I L-O-V-E-D this book so much!
Thank you for the honor of being one of the first to read it. The only real complaint I have about it is that I want more! Its rare that I can’t find at least a few faults in a novel, but Cipher seems to be the true exception. Its humor, romance and action had me so hooked. If there is something wrong with this book, I was too distracted to notice. I totally recommend this book. Cipher, and Knight are the coolest characters ever. Super computer hacker, Cipher in on the run from their equivalent of the government. Why? Because she was born with unstable genetics. They (The crazies in charge) think people like her are too dangerous to live. Therefor they kill people like her as babies. Luckily for her, a group called the Shadow Ravens saved her.
People call people like Cipher, Reds, they are dangerous because of the powers they get from their genetics. Cipher has super powers. She can control electricity. Mind that I say "control" lightly. Where does this Knight guy come in? Knight knew Cipher from before she went on the run. She saved his life, and he wants to repay her... Oh yah, and he might or might not be in love with her. ;)
Two epic people, love, hackers, and explosions lead to an amazing read. I recommend it all the way! I happily give Cipher FIVE STARS!
Want more of me? Go to: http://thenotsopubliclibrary.blogspot...
July 20, 2015
Cipher is an exciting, Sci-Fi, New Adult Romance set in the distant future starring a female hacker! Cipher, as the gaming community knows her, doesn't get close to people. Physically she can't because of her power to attract and dispel electricity (she's fried her fair share of computers). But she's also been on the run since she was eight years old because her uncle and the Black Helixes are after her. At birth, Cipher was marked as a Red Helix, meaning she has unstable DNA and was destined for death. She avoided that fate until she killed a man, revealing her unusual ability. Twelve years later, she's still hiding out, but someone else is looking for her.
Cipher had me hooked from the beginning! I don't think I had read about a lady hacker before, so that was a lot of fun. Cipher is looking for information on the Red Helixes in super secret government files, which might be the only way she can continue surviving or it just might get her killed. But Cipher doesn't know that she's also a Shadow Raven, part of a secret rebel group that rescues other girls marked for death. At least until a blast from the past in the form of super sexy Knight storms into her life. She saved his life as a kid, and now he's out to save hers. Neither expects to fall in love in the process.
I just really enjoyed Cipher. It's different than other Sci-Fi/Paranormal Romances I've read before. The plot is really strong as Knight attempts to bring Cipher to safety and she seeks revenge on her evil uncle. The romance never got insta-lovey or melodramatic, probably because the characters already knew each other from before. There's a ton of non-stop action, explosions, car chases, helicopter chases, and evil scientists! It's just great!
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
Cipher had me hooked from the beginning! I don't think I had read about a lady hacker before, so that was a lot of fun. Cipher is looking for information on the Red Helixes in super secret government files, which might be the only way she can continue surviving or it just might get her killed. But Cipher doesn't know that she's also a Shadow Raven, part of a secret rebel group that rescues other girls marked for death. At least until a blast from the past in the form of super sexy Knight storms into her life. She saved his life as a kid, and now he's out to save hers. Neither expects to fall in love in the process.
I just really enjoyed Cipher. It's different than other Sci-Fi/Paranormal Romances I've read before. The plot is really strong as Knight attempts to bring Cipher to safety and she seeks revenge on her evil uncle. The romance never got insta-lovey or melodramatic, probably because the characters already knew each other from before. There's a ton of non-stop action, explosions, car chases, helicopter chases, and evil scientists! It's just great!
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
December 13, 2016
Solid 3 stars
I wasn't blown away, the constant swearing I found distracting and I just didn't like Knight /Hunter.
But I enjoyed the world, I felt a bit thrown in and disorientated at the beginning but it slows down a bit after the first chapter so I had time to adjust and understand what was going on.
The plot was fast paced and I wasn't bored at any time, I enjoyed Cipher/ Emma as a character for the most part.
There was funny dialog, an interesting futuristic dystopia - it was all quite strongly young adult but with a bit of spice and lots of swearing
I wasn't blown away, the constant swearing I found distracting and I just didn't like Knight /Hunter.
But I enjoyed the world, I felt a bit thrown in and disorientated at the beginning but it slows down a bit after the first chapter so I had time to adjust and understand what was going on.
The plot was fast paced and I wasn't bored at any time, I enjoyed Cipher/ Emma as a character for the most part.
There was funny dialog, an interesting futuristic dystopia - it was all quite strongly young adult but with a bit of spice and lots of swearing
September 28, 2016
I'm a huge fan of this author's werewolf series. I've loved them all. For me, this book didn't have the same effect the others had. It was out of my element, and I had a hard time getting into the story.
Overall it was okay, but I'm sure others will enjoy it more.
Overall it was okay, but I'm sure others will enjoy it more.
September 14, 2016
Quick read. I like the cyberpunk world the author creates (incidentally, I read this because I liked a previous book of hers - Alpha - in which I again appreciated the world-building). The ending was a little anticlimactic for me, but I'd read the other novels set in this world.
October 31, 2014
Full review posted 11/2/14 on Parajunkee!
December 8, 2014
Was good. Liked the exchanging viewpoints. Interested in reading the rest of the series with different authors.
April 24, 2017
Pretty light. Insta love. Still, entertaining if you're looking for a little action/adventure.
February 10, 2023
Sometimes rereading your middle school favorite reads really disappoints you. This is one of those times.
Read
October 7, 2023I liked the premise but not the execution. Minus points for casual misogyny. DNF.
October 1, 2014
http://functioninginsanity.blogspot.c...
I’ve got lots of books and reviews to do as well, a few ARC’s and new releases. First of which is going to be the first book in a new series put out by Ink Monster, Cipher. Cipher is the first book in The Shadow Raven series but as I understand it will have a different author on their team, two of which are on my favs list already, writing a full length store in the tale but different novellas in the time between. See Ink Monster is different as they collaborate and put out books in the series, even if it's just a shorter novella type store, every 6 months or so, meaning less waiting for us impatient readers. The first book in The Shadow Ravens series, Cipher, is written by Aileen Erin who writes the Alpha Girls series I have been reading and reviewing. Also side note the next one in that series should be out soon as well.
Today though is all about the new series and that starts with Cipher. In the future world with enhanced DNA where people can become super powerful, super smart, to name a few even immortal, not ever helix is good. Where a helix would show pride and enhancements, those marked with a red helix are marked with a death sentence, unstable DNA. Cipher is one of those lucky ones with unstable DNA, which might explain why she can manipulate electricity. When she was only eight years old she made the mistake of letting her ambitious uncle know what she was and that got her parents killed and put her on the run. She's been running for the past 12 years but is tired of running and hiding and wants more than to just survive. She wants her life back. Risking being caught she uses her hacking skills to break into the mainframe but before she can go through all the info she kinda has a electrical surge and fries her processor. Not cheap and she has to get a new one up to her standards, which puts her on a path to meeting her online friend Knight who is different than she expected. Trust doesn't come easy for her but between her one honest in person friend she allowed herself to make and this online pal Knight coming into the flesh she years for a life she isn't sure she can have.
This book was a quick read; I read it in one slow shift at work. I couldn’t put it down and was slightly more anti-social than normal when co-workers wanted to talk. What can I say? The story goes between Ciphers and Knights POV so we see each of them through different glasses. You see how they think of themselves and how the other sees them and I always find that great because you can sometimes over look things in yourself and others see them clear as day. Cipher is an amazing hacker who has wild blue hair, piercings, and a few tattoos to remind her of things she has given up. Mostly she is lonely, always on the run, but has allowed herself to stay a little longer than normal and actual have a friend in the real world. And Knight, her cyber buddy who makes her favorite processor, is on his own quest searching to repay a debt and protect but stuck in a horrible spot to make it happen. There is a lot going on in the story and I don’t want to say too much for fear of spoiling you, and you all know how I feel about spoilers, but it will keep you on the edge of your seat with actions, chases, fights, etc. And you also have the connections between the characters and how they develop.
I will end this saying one of the things I love most about these books from Ink Monster is there goal is to create worlds and kiss ass characters which I love. I give it 5 Knight Processors. I hope you all will give Cipher a chance and fall in love as well. Cipher comes out on October 14th.
I’ve got lots of books and reviews to do as well, a few ARC’s and new releases. First of which is going to be the first book in a new series put out by Ink Monster, Cipher. Cipher is the first book in The Shadow Raven series but as I understand it will have a different author on their team, two of which are on my favs list already, writing a full length store in the tale but different novellas in the time between. See Ink Monster is different as they collaborate and put out books in the series, even if it's just a shorter novella type store, every 6 months or so, meaning less waiting for us impatient readers. The first book in The Shadow Ravens series, Cipher, is written by Aileen Erin who writes the Alpha Girls series I have been reading and reviewing. Also side note the next one in that series should be out soon as well.
Today though is all about the new series and that starts with Cipher. In the future world with enhanced DNA where people can become super powerful, super smart, to name a few even immortal, not ever helix is good. Where a helix would show pride and enhancements, those marked with a red helix are marked with a death sentence, unstable DNA. Cipher is one of those lucky ones with unstable DNA, which might explain why she can manipulate electricity. When she was only eight years old she made the mistake of letting her ambitious uncle know what she was and that got her parents killed and put her on the run. She's been running for the past 12 years but is tired of running and hiding and wants more than to just survive. She wants her life back. Risking being caught she uses her hacking skills to break into the mainframe but before she can go through all the info she kinda has a electrical surge and fries her processor. Not cheap and she has to get a new one up to her standards, which puts her on a path to meeting her online friend Knight who is different than she expected. Trust doesn't come easy for her but between her one honest in person friend she allowed herself to make and this online pal Knight coming into the flesh she years for a life she isn't sure she can have.
This book was a quick read; I read it in one slow shift at work. I couldn’t put it down and was slightly more anti-social than normal when co-workers wanted to talk. What can I say? The story goes between Ciphers and Knights POV so we see each of them through different glasses. You see how they think of themselves and how the other sees them and I always find that great because you can sometimes over look things in yourself and others see them clear as day. Cipher is an amazing hacker who has wild blue hair, piercings, and a few tattoos to remind her of things she has given up. Mostly she is lonely, always on the run, but has allowed herself to stay a little longer than normal and actual have a friend in the real world. And Knight, her cyber buddy who makes her favorite processor, is on his own quest searching to repay a debt and protect but stuck in a horrible spot to make it happen. There is a lot going on in the story and I don’t want to say too much for fear of spoiling you, and you all know how I feel about spoilers, but it will keep you on the edge of your seat with actions, chases, fights, etc. And you also have the connections between the characters and how they develop.
I will end this saying one of the things I love most about these books from Ink Monster is there goal is to create worlds and kiss ass characters which I love. I give it 5 Knight Processors. I hope you all will give Cipher a chance and fall in love as well. Cipher comes out on October 14th.
November 12, 2016
Find this review and more on my blog The Rest Is Still Unwritten!
Cipher by Aileen Erin is the first novel in The Shadow Raven’s series and is an absolutely brilliant start to what looks like a highly promising YA series that features a fast paced storyline, wonderful dialogue and delicious chemistry between its two main characters.
In a world where she would be studied and experimented on for her abilities, Cipher has been alone and on the run for most of her life. Only managing to remain ahead of the authorities by the skin of her teeth, Cipher’s world changes when she meets the intelligent, alluring and at times infuriating, Knight. Knight has spent twelve years looking for the girl whose electric touch saved his life as a child, and now that he’s found her he has no intention of letting her go. Everything in Knight’s life has been in preparation of helping the girl he loves, but none of the training, secret missions or undercover work could have prepared him for the connection he feels when he meets Cipher, or the desire he has to keep her safe. With enemies hot on their trail and closing in with every second, Cipher will have no choice but to trust Knight if she has any hopes of surviving…..
I have no hesitations in saying that I absolutely loved Cipher! From the moment I began the story, author Aileen Erin had me addicted to the fantastic tale she had spun, eager to see Cipher and Knight’s story develop and their lives intertwine once more. Alternately told through Cipher and Knight’s points of view, Cipher is one of those YA paranormal/fantasy tales you can’t help but love and be swept into. Everything about it seems to be perfect; the pace, the characters, the romance, the storyline, the world—it all just works.
I know that the novels in this series will be told by different authors and the second book introduces a new heroine, but I look forward to seeing more of Cipher down the track too. Cipher was a well written, easily likable and intelligent character. I loved that Aileen Erin made her a gamer and a hacker—taking her outside the typical heroine mold and giving her a bit of nerdy-sass. Made me love her even more.
And Knight! Oh Knight. What a wonderful male lead and love interest! Knight was cheeky and smart and very capable. His training and capabilities had left a stain on his soul considering what he had been forced to do, but I love seeing how dedicated he was to Cipher and the Red’s and helping those who were being taken. Basically Knight just encompasses so much of what I love in male leads.
Unfolding through both POV’s meant we got a really well rounded tale that let us see what both Cipher and Knight thought and felt. They had such a lovely chemistry as characters and I have to give Erin props for how she wrote their relationship. Giving them a history—one that never really ended—meant that seeing them connect again was more satisfying.
Definitely impressing me, Cipher is a well written and electric (pun totally included!) tale that will no doubt leave you raring to see more of this delightful and engaging world as Aileen Erin kicks off The Shadow Raven series—can’t wait to see how Lola Dodge follows it up with her tale Quanta!
Cipher by Aileen Erin is the first novel in The Shadow Raven’s series and is an absolutely brilliant start to what looks like a highly promising YA series that features a fast paced storyline, wonderful dialogue and delicious chemistry between its two main characters.
In a world where she would be studied and experimented on for her abilities, Cipher has been alone and on the run for most of her life. Only managing to remain ahead of the authorities by the skin of her teeth, Cipher’s world changes when she meets the intelligent, alluring and at times infuriating, Knight. Knight has spent twelve years looking for the girl whose electric touch saved his life as a child, and now that he’s found her he has no intention of letting her go. Everything in Knight’s life has been in preparation of helping the girl he loves, but none of the training, secret missions or undercover work could have prepared him for the connection he feels when he meets Cipher, or the desire he has to keep her safe. With enemies hot on their trail and closing in with every second, Cipher will have no choice but to trust Knight if she has any hopes of surviving…..
I have no hesitations in saying that I absolutely loved Cipher! From the moment I began the story, author Aileen Erin had me addicted to the fantastic tale she had spun, eager to see Cipher and Knight’s story develop and their lives intertwine once more. Alternately told through Cipher and Knight’s points of view, Cipher is one of those YA paranormal/fantasy tales you can’t help but love and be swept into. Everything about it seems to be perfect; the pace, the characters, the romance, the storyline, the world—it all just works.
I know that the novels in this series will be told by different authors and the second book introduces a new heroine, but I look forward to seeing more of Cipher down the track too. Cipher was a well written, easily likable and intelligent character. I loved that Aileen Erin made her a gamer and a hacker—taking her outside the typical heroine mold and giving her a bit of nerdy-sass. Made me love her even more.
And Knight! Oh Knight. What a wonderful male lead and love interest! Knight was cheeky and smart and very capable. His training and capabilities had left a stain on his soul considering what he had been forced to do, but I love seeing how dedicated he was to Cipher and the Red’s and helping those who were being taken. Basically Knight just encompasses so much of what I love in male leads.
Unfolding through both POV’s meant we got a really well rounded tale that let us see what both Cipher and Knight thought and felt. They had such a lovely chemistry as characters and I have to give Erin props for how she wrote their relationship. Giving them a history—one that never really ended—meant that seeing them connect again was more satisfying.
Definitely impressing me, Cipher is a well written and electric (pun totally included!) tale that will no doubt leave you raring to see more of this delightful and engaging world as Aileen Erin kicks off The Shadow Raven series—can’t wait to see how Lola Dodge follows it up with her tale Quanta!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 20, 2017
Even though it's YA and I'm not a big fan of it, this novel really kept me reading and reading and wanting to find out more. I loved it but there was one drawback, though, I thought the ending was a bit abrupt. Anyway, I'd love to read the rest of the series.
October 14, 2014
**ARC provided by Netgalley for an honest review!**
*Quotes may differ upon publication*
4/4.5 RED-HELIX STARS!
CIPHER & KNIGHT
Cipher is a red helix with the power to control electricity. They are considered dangerous due to the fact that their DNA is not normal. She has been hiding most of her life and then after years of cautious hiding she loses control of her powers for a moment.
This in turn causes her to be found by people with raven tattoos like her however, she is hesitant to trust them. Knight is a dual helix and he has been looking for Emma, the girl that saved him years ago and ends up exposing herself as a red helix. When he is finally close to finding Emma, things go terribly wrong. When will Knight realize that Cipher is the precious Emma he was searching for and when will Cipher realize that Knight is the Hunter she once cared for?
Cipher & Knight's relationship was adorable! Knight was hot, protective, PERFECT and did I mention HOT?! Cipher was a kickass girl with trust issues. Later on, she gets clingy, but I forgive her because it's KNIGHT!! Can't blame the poor girl!
This book was very enjoyable! It dragged a little in the beginning, but toward the middle and end, the plot was fast paced with lots of action. It wasn't the most unique plot, but it was nice and sweet.
HEA?
*Quotes may differ upon publication*
4/4.5 RED-HELIX STARS!
CIPHER & KNIGHT
"You saved me. You were my angel. It's only fair that you let me be your knight. At least every once in a while."
Cipher is a red helix with the power to control electricity. They are considered dangerous due to the fact that their DNA is not normal. She has been hiding most of her life and then after years of cautious hiding she loses control of her powers for a moment.
This in turn causes her to be found by people with raven tattoos like her however, she is hesitant to trust them. Knight is a dual helix and he has been looking for Emma, the girl that saved him years ago and ends up exposing herself as a red helix. When he is finally close to finding Emma, things go terribly wrong. When will Knight realize that Cipher is the precious Emma he was searching for and when will Cipher realize that Knight is the Hunter she once cared for?
I hadn't known Knight for long. But I'd also kind of known him forever. Putting all those pieces together in my head, I knew him. And he knew me better than anyone.
Cipher & Knight's relationship was adorable! Knight was hot, protective, PERFECT and did I mention HOT?! Cipher was a kickass girl with trust issues. Later on, she gets clingy, but I forgive her because it's KNIGHT!! Can't blame the poor girl!
"Stop looking at me like that."
"Like what?"
"Like you're starving and I'm a nice piece of apple pie."
This book was very enjoyable! It dragged a little in the beginning, but toward the middle and end, the plot was fast paced with lots of action. It wasn't the most unique plot, but it was nice and sweet.
HEA?
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