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Flames of Time #1
Splintered Souls
When Ava Flynn walks away from a scholarship to Georgetown and moves into her grandmother’s abandoned summer home in coastal Maine, she steps into the center of a centuries-old curse. On her first night, she notices a mysterious leather-clad stranger looking up at her third-story window. For weeks, everywhere she goes, Ava catches more glimpses of him, but she can never get close enough to find out who he is.
Over three hundred years ago, Lady Catherine Fairchild risked everything to protect her unborn child, sending a ripple through time that would change Ava’s future. As the mystery unravels, the horrifying consequences of Lady Catherine’s choices drag Ava deeper into a world she never knew existed, trapping her in a conflict that’s been raging since before she was born. A winner-take-all battle for her soul.
Over three hundred years ago, Lady Catherine Fairchild risked everything to protect her unborn child, sending a ripple through time that would change Ava’s future. As the mystery unravels, the horrifying consequences of Lady Catherine’s choices drag Ava deeper into a world she never knew existed, trapping her in a conflict that’s been raging since before she was born. A winner-take-all battle for her soul.
250 pages, Paperback
First published September 22, 2015
237 people are currently reading
421 people want to read
About the author
Erica Lucke Dean
19 books207 followersAfter walking away from her career as a business banker to pursue writing full-time, Erica Lucke Dean moved from the hustle and bustle of the big city to a small tourist town in the North Georgia Mountains where she lived in a 90-year-old haunted farmhouse.
Tired of being woken up in the middle of the night by a pesky poltergeist, the author of contemporary young adult, romantic comedy, and paranormal romance moved into a cute little cabin in the woods, where she lives with her husband, her dogs, and the occasional bear. Much like the characters in her books, Ms. Dean is a magnet for disaster, and has been known to trip on air while walking across flat surfaces.
How she’s managed to survive this long is one of life’s great mysteries.
You can find out more about Erica, in addition to her humorous blog posts and disasters, on her website.
Represented by: Cathie Hedrick-Armstrong of Marsal Lyon Literary Agency.
Follow me on Bookbub to get notified when my books go on sale. https://www.bookbub.com/authors/erica...
Tired of being woken up in the middle of the night by a pesky poltergeist, the author of contemporary young adult, romantic comedy, and paranormal romance moved into a cute little cabin in the woods, where she lives with her husband, her dogs, and the occasional bear. Much like the characters in her books, Ms. Dean is a magnet for disaster, and has been known to trip on air while walking across flat surfaces.
How she’s managed to survive this long is one of life’s great mysteries.
You can find out more about Erica, in addition to her humorous blog posts and disasters, on her website.
Represented by: Cathie Hedrick-Armstrong of Marsal Lyon Literary Agency.
Follow me on Bookbub to get notified when my books go on sale. https://www.bookbub.com/authors/erica...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
May 6, 2017
In 1654 a soon to be mother turns to a witch to bless her child before it is born. She asks that her baby will always be able to find his soulmate. Little does she know that she is about to give birth to twin boys and this blessing will turn into a curse.
In the present day Ava Flynn gave up her dream to attend Georgetown after the death of her father. She agrees to move with her mother and younger brother and attend the local college to keep the rest of their family together. When Ava spots an intriguing mystery man she feels an instant connection with him.
I would warn that anyone that has an intense dislike of instant love or love triangles would probably not enjoy this story at all but I actually found myself completely hooked on this book and didn't want to put it down. I enjoyed all of the characters and loved that the author found a way to make the brothers each have their own personality.
This will certainly be one that I will be watching for the next book in the series as my only complaint would be the ending just had to be a cliffhanger.
Overall, curses, time travel and a intense love triangle, would definitely recommend.
I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
In the present day Ava Flynn gave up her dream to attend Georgetown after the death of her father. She agrees to move with her mother and younger brother and attend the local college to keep the rest of their family together. When Ava spots an intriguing mystery man she feels an instant connection with him.
I would warn that anyone that has an intense dislike of instant love or love triangles would probably not enjoy this story at all but I actually found myself completely hooked on this book and didn't want to put it down. I enjoyed all of the characters and loved that the author found a way to make the brothers each have their own personality.
This will certainly be one that I will be watching for the next book in the series as my only complaint would be the ending just had to be a cliffhanger.
Overall, curses, time travel and a intense love triangle, would definitely recommend.
I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
June 16, 2017
***** 4 Cursed Stars *****
I don't know how to describe Splintered Souls without giving away too much of the story. The blurb talks about one thing, but the book involves so much more. Yes, there is a curse, but there's also some time travel.
Stories involving time travel always makes me ask more questions, and this falls into that category. I did like the characters, but there were some moments where I wished they explained some things more.
Oh, and this also involves the ultimate love triangle. There were some passionate kisses here and there but nothing more. Will I be interested in finishing this series? My answer is yes.
I don't know how to describe Splintered Souls without giving away too much of the story. The blurb talks about one thing, but the book involves so much more. Yes, there is a curse, but there's also some time travel.
Stories involving time travel always makes me ask more questions, and this falls into that category. I did like the characters, but there were some moments where I wished they explained some things more.
Oh, and this also involves the ultimate love triangle. There were some passionate kisses here and there but nothing more. Will I be interested in finishing this series? My answer is yes.
February 20, 2017
Splintered Souls is about a blessing, turned curse, that seems hopeless. In 1654, Lady Catherine Fairchild visited a witch to bless her unborn child. In that blessing she asked for him to find and possess his soulmate. Despite the warnings of the witch, she insisted on the blessing. That blessing turned into a curse when she had not one baby, but two. Twins who share a soul who will long for the same soulmate.
Holy Moley, I'm so confused! There is so much going on in book one. There is no way to describe without spoiling the story. We've got time travel, a good twin, a bad twin or are they both good and bad? Has the curse driven Maddox and Laithe mad or just desperate in their longing for their one true soulmate? I have no idea who to root for. I'm not sure if one twin is more deserving or not and can't imagine how this can end happily. Ava is their soulmate so even if they can sever one of the ties, then that twin will not have a soulmate. It's too bad she can't have both! ARC provided by NetGalley.
Holy Moley, I'm so confused! There is so much going on in book one. There is no way to describe without spoiling the story. We've got time travel, a good twin, a bad twin or are they both good and bad? Has the curse driven Maddox and Laithe mad or just desperate in their longing for their one true soulmate? I have no idea who to root for. I'm not sure if one twin is more deserving or not and can't imagine how this can end happily. Ava is their soulmate so even if they can sever one of the ties, then that twin will not have a soulmate. It's too bad she can't have both! ARC provided by NetGalley.
June 16, 2016
Title: Splintered Souls
Author: Erica Lucke Dean
Genre: Sci-fi/Paranormal Romance
Format: Ebook
Pages: 250
Rating: 5
Heat: 4
Thoughts: This was such a pleasure to read! Erica's ability to suck you into a book is uncanny. I couldn't put it down but I wanted to just so the story would last. At first I was rooting for Maddox but then I got a taste of Laith and now I'm not sure who to root for. This is a love triangle with a twist (that I will try not to give away). Ava is a soul mate to both of them (how does that work? I know but I won't tell you!). Feelings of guilt, confusion, and anger overwhelm Ava, along with love and lust. FYI.... CLIFFHANGER!!!! Not surprising though, and it was the perfect spot to do it (even though I yelled at the author for it lol). I can't wait to get my hands on the next book!
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
Author: Erica Lucke Dean
Genre: Sci-fi/Paranormal Romance
Format: Ebook
Pages: 250
Rating: 5
Heat: 4
Thoughts: This was such a pleasure to read! Erica's ability to suck you into a book is uncanny. I couldn't put it down but I wanted to just so the story would last. At first I was rooting for Maddox but then I got a taste of Laith and now I'm not sure who to root for. This is a love triangle with a twist (that I will try not to give away). Ava is a soul mate to both of them (how does that work? I know but I won't tell you!). Feelings of guilt, confusion, and anger overwhelm Ava, along with love and lust. FYI.... CLIFFHANGER!!!! Not surprising though, and it was the perfect spot to do it (even though I yelled at the author for it lol). I can't wait to get my hands on the next book!
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
July 27, 2018
This ended up being way better than I thought it would be! The concept really drew me in, it’s quite unlike anything I’ve read before. I’ve never really seen time travel presented in this way and I thought it was really interesting! I really wasn’t expecting the twist, it really surprised me and added such an interesting element to the story. I did find our main character a tad bit annoying at times but the story made up for it in the long run.
June 17, 2018
all i can say is wow this book was amazing every time i thought i knew where the story was headed bam complete change of course can t wait to read the next one
June 25, 2016
Every woman, at some point in her life, dreams of finding her soulmate and living happily ever after. It's been said that the physical draw between you and your "other half" is something that you cannot deny... and cannot break. In life, though, nothing is ever perfect, and so often things do not go the way you dream them.
Ava had her life planned out, but after her father's death, she chose to move to Maine with her family and start her life over. She enrolled in a small college and they moved into her grandmother's summer home. Her family seemed to be getting better and she made some friends, even met the man of her dreams (that was a bit of craziness right there), but because of events from the past, Ava's life begins a crazy spiral that she never expected... one she has no idea how to handle.
Anyone who has discussed books with me in any way KNOWS that I am not a fan of romance. I'm not completely opposed to there being romance IN a story, but the novel has to have a compelling storyline that will keep me hooked, something unusual, with a nice balance between romance and the rest of the story.
Not long ago, I had the pleasure (and I say that sincerely) of reading another book by Erica (Ashes of Life), so when I was asked to read this one, and having read the book description, I decided it was one I was willing to give a try to.
I knew halfway through that I had made the right decision. It was almost impossible for me to put this down, and I only did so because I couldn't keep my eyes open any longer.
This story had so much of what I love in a book, including adventure, and the romance, though a major part of the story, was the conflict, which actually made it even more interesting to me.
There's a lot to take in - every bit important. She manages to tell a story that takes place in two different times (the present, which is affected by the past) and does so smoothly. Her use of flashbacks is perfect, and the research that she has done on so many things throughout the book (including Tudor history, Lady Catherine, witches, curses, and spells) is spot on.
She has a way with characters that I find absolutely amazing, and anyone who is looking to improve their characters should take a look at the way she does it. Each one is so real, which is quite refreshing. Her characters have both a good and a bad side, sometimes making it hard to decide whether you like or dislike them... and sometimes you both hate and love them at the same time, but can't figure out why. I get gut feelings about her characters, as if they were real people, which says a lot about her writing ability.
My absolute favorite character is Josh. He is Ava's little brother, and is the perfect representation of an eleven-year-old. He can be such a jerk, and yet turn around and be completely loving, and I was so happy with the fact that he was willing to stand up to his sister when he knew she was wrong, defending the choice he made along with his friend.
My least favorite character was Ava. I just get SO tired of the "perfect female" character. I'm not saying that she was all bad. I just have a hard time relating to the whole "perfect" thing - she's so pretty and has a great body, the popular girls want to hang out with her, she easily fits in, and the guys are all chasing her. Despite her father's death and the grief they are feeling, her life is still pretty perfect, even though there are things going on in the story that rocks her "perfect" world. I think that's all just a personal thing with me, though, so I don't hold it against the author at all.
The ending was pretty amazing, and I can't wait to get my hands on book two. It definitely was not the way I was expecting to things - not the direction I had fully expected things to go in as the events unraveled - but it ended perfectly. In fact, I don't think there's any other way it could have ended - and I usually get really ticked off about cliffhangers. It answered quite a few questions, but also left it open to SO many possibilities.
Definitely a book I recommend to others, including people like me who aren't fans of romance, and I can see this being in my top favorite reads of the year.
Note: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest and unbiased review.
Ava had her life planned out, but after her father's death, she chose to move to Maine with her family and start her life over. She enrolled in a small college and they moved into her grandmother's summer home. Her family seemed to be getting better and she made some friends, even met the man of her dreams (that was a bit of craziness right there), but because of events from the past, Ava's life begins a crazy spiral that she never expected... one she has no idea how to handle.
Anyone who has discussed books with me in any way KNOWS that I am not a fan of romance. I'm not completely opposed to there being romance IN a story, but the novel has to have a compelling storyline that will keep me hooked, something unusual, with a nice balance between romance and the rest of the story.
Not long ago, I had the pleasure (and I say that sincerely) of reading another book by Erica (Ashes of Life), so when I was asked to read this one, and having read the book description, I decided it was one I was willing to give a try to.
I knew halfway through that I had made the right decision. It was almost impossible for me to put this down, and I only did so because I couldn't keep my eyes open any longer.
This story had so much of what I love in a book, including adventure, and the romance, though a major part of the story, was the conflict, which actually made it even more interesting to me.
There's a lot to take in - every bit important. She manages to tell a story that takes place in two different times (the present, which is affected by the past) and does so smoothly. Her use of flashbacks is perfect, and the research that she has done on so many things throughout the book (including Tudor history, Lady Catherine, witches, curses, and spells) is spot on.
She has a way with characters that I find absolutely amazing, and anyone who is looking to improve their characters should take a look at the way she does it. Each one is so real, which is quite refreshing. Her characters have both a good and a bad side, sometimes making it hard to decide whether you like or dislike them... and sometimes you both hate and love them at the same time, but can't figure out why. I get gut feelings about her characters, as if they were real people, which says a lot about her writing ability.
My absolute favorite character is Josh. He is Ava's little brother, and is the perfect representation of an eleven-year-old. He can be such a jerk, and yet turn around and be completely loving, and I was so happy with the fact that he was willing to stand up to his sister when he knew she was wrong, defending the choice he made along with his friend.
My least favorite character was Ava. I just get SO tired of the "perfect female" character. I'm not saying that she was all bad. I just have a hard time relating to the whole "perfect" thing - she's so pretty and has a great body, the popular girls want to hang out with her, she easily fits in, and the guys are all chasing her. Despite her father's death and the grief they are feeling, her life is still pretty perfect, even though there are things going on in the story that rocks her "perfect" world. I think that's all just a personal thing with me, though, so I don't hold it against the author at all.
The ending was pretty amazing, and I can't wait to get my hands on book two. It definitely was not the way I was expecting to things - not the direction I had fully expected things to go in as the events unraveled - but it ended perfectly. In fact, I don't think there's any other way it could have ended - and I usually get really ticked off about cliffhangers. It answered quite a few questions, but also left it open to SO many possibilities.
Definitely a book I recommend to others, including people like me who aren't fans of romance, and I can see this being in my top favorite reads of the year.
Note: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest and unbiased review.
January 3, 2017
Hundreds of years ago a pregnant woman rode off in a storm to beg a witch's blessing for her unborn child. That choice would plague her into madness.
Ava is the new girl in town. She has recently lost her father and has moved with her Mom and little brother into her deceased grandmother's house. On her first night she sees "lamppost guy" as she calls him, a handsome hunk who seems to be staring up at her window. As suddenly as he appears, he is gone. The next day she thinks she spots him in a store where she's shopping with her mom, but while trying to catch up with him she crashes into her soon to be new bestie and lamppost guy disappears again. Suddenly everywhere Ava goes, she feels his presence, until at last they meet. Ava feels an instant connection as if they are soul mates, but she doesn't know that's only half the story!
Full of romance and suspense without graphic sex this is a perfect read for young adult fans of paranormal romance.
I received a complimentary copy for review
Ava is the new girl in town. She has recently lost her father and has moved with her Mom and little brother into her deceased grandmother's house. On her first night she sees "lamppost guy" as she calls him, a handsome hunk who seems to be staring up at her window. As suddenly as he appears, he is gone. The next day she thinks she spots him in a store where she's shopping with her mom, but while trying to catch up with him she crashes into her soon to be new bestie and lamppost guy disappears again. Suddenly everywhere Ava goes, she feels his presence, until at last they meet. Ava feels an instant connection as if they are soul mates, but she doesn't know that's only half the story!
Full of romance and suspense without graphic sex this is a perfect read for young adult fans of paranormal romance.
I received a complimentary copy for review
October 18, 2015
I received a copy of this book from Red Adept Publishing, LLC via NG in return for an honest review.
Rating- 2.5
Okay, this review will be blunt and honest.
First of all, i don't think the blurb accurately portrayed what we were diving into- with this book.
I say this because 1. I got the mother of all love triangles and 2. the love triangle includes one girl two brothers. Did the blurb mention that? No. Am I slightly annoyed? Yes, i hate love triangles and love triangles with brothers involved, is death to my soul.
So from this point, I'll do a reiteration of what the blurb is actually about.
THERE! THIS IS WHAT YOU'RE GETTING INTO!
You know when I started this book I actually really liked it. It was good, fascinating, new and who doesn't like the idea of soul mates?
See everything was nice and dandy, especially when a good looking boy on a motorbike makes an appearance... but then the story (to me) was thrown out of whack and i just stared at my screen internally screaming.
"The draw I'd felt toward Laith all day shifted, and suddenly, my soul yearned for Maddox."
WHY!? WHY A LOVE TRIANGLE WITH BROTHERS INVOLVED!? JUST WHY?
And this one was freaking confusing as all heck!
This annoys me a great deal, because Erica Dean has an awesome writing style and this story was flowing like a freaking waterfall and then i hit the rapids and i drowned.
I went from being intrigued to liking it, to then rage my way through it.
Don't get me wrong, it's not a bad story, not a bad plot either and the writing is nice.
It simply wasn't for me but have a go and see how you like it!
I'm going to leave it there and let you make up your mind, but for me we weren't sympatico.
Stay awesome!
-The Book Herald
Check out my blog- The Book Herald Blog (Help the little people!)
tweet me @thebookherald
Rating- 2.5
Okay, this review will be blunt and honest.
First of all, i don't think the blurb accurately portrayed what we were diving into- with this book.
I say this because 1. I got the mother of all love triangles and 2. the love triangle includes one girl two brothers. Did the blurb mention that? No. Am I slightly annoyed? Yes, i hate love triangles and love triangles with brothers involved, is death to my soul.
So from this point, I'll do a reiteration of what the blurb is actually about.
Lady Catherine Fairchild was desperate and very pregnant.
In her desperation she makes a deal with a witch,
but magic always comes with a price.
Her idea was for her baby to find his love - his soul mate,
what she didn't count on, was the fact that she was carrying two babes and in the midst of this conflict,
their souls are forever bound to love the same woman.
Splintered souls they call it and they must travel through time to find her and fight each other for her love.
THERE! THIS IS WHAT YOU'RE GETTING INTO!
You know when I started this book I actually really liked it. It was good, fascinating, new and who doesn't like the idea of soul mates?
See everything was nice and dandy, especially when a good looking boy on a motorbike makes an appearance... but then the story (to me) was thrown out of whack and i just stared at my screen internally screaming.
"The draw I'd felt toward Laith all day shifted, and suddenly, my soul yearned for Maddox."
WHY!? WHY A LOVE TRIANGLE WITH BROTHERS INVOLVED!? JUST WHY?
And this one was freaking confusing as all heck!
This annoys me a great deal, because Erica Dean has an awesome writing style and this story was flowing like a freaking waterfall and then i hit the rapids and i drowned.
I went from being intrigued to liking it, to then rage my way through it.
Don't get me wrong, it's not a bad story, not a bad plot either and the writing is nice.
It simply wasn't for me but have a go and see how you like it!
I'm going to leave it there and let you make up your mind, but for me we weren't sympatico.
Stay awesome!
-The Book Herald
Check out my blog- The Book Herald Blog (Help the little people!)
tweet me @thebookherald
October 29, 2015
3.5
*Book source ~ A review copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
When 19-yr-old Ava Flynn’s dad dies, she decides to give up her scholarship to Georgetown, move with her mom and little brother to her grandmother’s old home on the coast of Maine and attend the tiny college there. She makes friends, but it’s the mysterious leather-clad boy who makes her heart beat fast. Who is he? Ava has no idea that her life is connected to the past and her present is about to change yet again. But the big question is, will this change be the death of her?
I love the concept of this story and the sections of the past. It’s a delicious serving of paranormal, romance and time travel seasoned with mystery and danger. Personally I’d label this YA because I put all teenagers in that category, but it’s most likely more in the New Adult range since it involves college students even if they are Freshmen. The setting is wonderful and, old or not, can I have Ava’s house? My problem with the story is the characters. I just couldn’t connect with them. Soul mates or not, Ava is very naïve and Maddox just grated on my nerves with all his smirking and cocky smiles. Then there’s the big problem of him hiding information from Ava and Ava not pushing for it. I hate characters that do that. I seriously do. Laith is another problem and the fact that he and Maddox fight over Ava like she’s prime steak or some kind of property and that she has no say in the matter even though she’s very much caught in the middle, well…harrumph. In addition, I’ve always had a problem with the concept of time travel. I’ve never been any good at figuring it out. I always feel like my head will explode, so it’s entirely my fault that I couldn’t wrap my head around what Maddox and Laith are doing. Don’t get me wrong, the story is very well-written and the concept is fascinating, it just wasn’t for me.
*Book source ~ A review copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
When 19-yr-old Ava Flynn’s dad dies, she decides to give up her scholarship to Georgetown, move with her mom and little brother to her grandmother’s old home on the coast of Maine and attend the tiny college there. She makes friends, but it’s the mysterious leather-clad boy who makes her heart beat fast. Who is he? Ava has no idea that her life is connected to the past and her present is about to change yet again. But the big question is, will this change be the death of her?
I love the concept of this story and the sections of the past. It’s a delicious serving of paranormal, romance and time travel seasoned with mystery and danger. Personally I’d label this YA because I put all teenagers in that category, but it’s most likely more in the New Adult range since it involves college students even if they are Freshmen. The setting is wonderful and, old or not, can I have Ava’s house? My problem with the story is the characters. I just couldn’t connect with them. Soul mates or not, Ava is very naïve and Maddox just grated on my nerves with all his smirking and cocky smiles. Then there’s the big problem of him hiding information from Ava and Ava not pushing for it. I hate characters that do that. I seriously do. Laith is another problem and the fact that he and Maddox fight over Ava like she’s prime steak or some kind of property and that she has no say in the matter even though she’s very much caught in the middle, well…harrumph. In addition, I’ve always had a problem with the concept of time travel. I’ve never been any good at figuring it out. I always feel like my head will explode, so it’s entirely my fault that I couldn’t wrap my head around what Maddox and Laith are doing. Don’t get me wrong, the story is very well-written and the concept is fascinating, it just wasn’t for me.
August 10, 2016
I love a good Soul Mate story! Give me two people who have connected throughout multiple lifetimes and I am almost guaranteed to love it! But add a third person with half the soul to the mix, plus engaging writing by Erica Lucke Dean for a new twist on the soul mate story and I am hooked!
I became Twitter friends with Erica years ago, when she began a serialized vampire story called Daywalkers on her blog--it's still on there, if you want to check it out. (While you are there, read The Bikini Wax Disaster, but I digress...) There was a bunch of us who looked forward to each new installment on Sunday nights, often hounding her if she was late posting. Her writing is an good mix of humor and suspense causing un-put-down-able-ness. (That's right. I made up a word, because it was the only way to describe how masterful she is!) She often left us with cliffhangers that turned us into rabid readers, begging for a hint at next week's installment. She told me this story had some elements that I liked from Daywalkers and she was totally right.
Erica is excellent at hooking the reader in, then leaving them in mid air until next time, and she did it again with Splintered Souls. This book was right up my alley. It is on par with two of my other favorite series, so if you have read either The Immortals series by Alyson Noel, or the Splintered series by AG Howard, this series will hit you in all the right feels. I am so glad I read this when Book Two is already written--I don't think I could handle waiting months for the story to continue. I assure you this is a love triangle that is different from others--I keep changing my mind on who I want Ava to be with!
Read it. Tell your friends to read it. You won't be disappointed.
#TeamMaddox
No, #TeamLaith
For now, #TeamLaiddox
I became Twitter friends with Erica years ago, when she began a serialized vampire story called Daywalkers on her blog--it's still on there, if you want to check it out. (While you are there, read The Bikini Wax Disaster, but I digress...) There was a bunch of us who looked forward to each new installment on Sunday nights, often hounding her if she was late posting. Her writing is an good mix of humor and suspense causing un-put-down-able-ness. (That's right. I made up a word, because it was the only way to describe how masterful she is!) She often left us with cliffhangers that turned us into rabid readers, begging for a hint at next week's installment. She told me this story had some elements that I liked from Daywalkers and she was totally right.
Erica is excellent at hooking the reader in, then leaving them in mid air until next time, and she did it again with Splintered Souls. This book was right up my alley. It is on par with two of my other favorite series, so if you have read either The Immortals series by Alyson Noel, or the Splintered series by AG Howard, this series will hit you in all the right feels. I am so glad I read this when Book Two is already written--I don't think I could handle waiting months for the story to continue. I assure you this is a love triangle that is different from others--I keep changing my mind on who I want Ava to be with!
Read it. Tell your friends to read it. You won't be disappointed.
#TeamMaddox
No, #TeamLaith
For now, #TeamLaiddox
November 3, 2015
Kindly provided with an ARC by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.....
Oh, this story just restores your faith in destined love and soul mates !. What a fabulous start to a series.
A brief round up......Ava (our stories leading lady) decides to move home and attend a local college after the death of her dad. Not what she planned, but she is a loyal, loving person so she chooses to support her mum and bother. With me so far ?......
At said new college Ava gets to grips with all the typical drama associated with being the "new girl" and trying to fit in.....been there, done that. I digress....
Ava very soon claps eyes on a seriously well described guy *fans self*, but she is a bit weirded out that she is the only one who can see him. Getting interesting now !!!!
As the story unfolds you find out it's not one supa hot guy but TWO !!! Brothers Maddox and Laith !!!! Be still my beating heart.
I really am NOT going to give anymore way, except to say that it is definitely a really great spin on the time travel concept.
Would I recommend this book....that would be a big yup. Do I wish I had book 2 now.....that would also be a BIG yup !!!.
5 "You are my one and only" Stars from me !
Well done Erica x
Thanks Netgalley for the opportunity to read this cool story xx
Later peeps xx
Oh, this story just restores your faith in destined love and soul mates !. What a fabulous start to a series.
A brief round up......Ava (our stories leading lady) decides to move home and attend a local college after the death of her dad. Not what she planned, but she is a loyal, loving person so she chooses to support her mum and bother. With me so far ?......
At said new college Ava gets to grips with all the typical drama associated with being the "new girl" and trying to fit in.....been there, done that. I digress....
Ava very soon claps eyes on a seriously well described guy *fans self*, but she is a bit weirded out that she is the only one who can see him. Getting interesting now !!!!
As the story unfolds you find out it's not one supa hot guy but TWO !!! Brothers Maddox and Laith !!!! Be still my beating heart.
I really am NOT going to give anymore way, except to say that it is definitely a really great spin on the time travel concept.
Would I recommend this book....that would be a big yup. Do I wish I had book 2 now.....that would also be a BIG yup !!!.
5 "You are my one and only" Stars from me !
Well done Erica x
Thanks Netgalley for the opportunity to read this cool story xx
Later peeps xx
July 2, 2021
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It’s been so long since I read a good YA paranormal romance novel which made me invested in the plot, and I thought “Splintered Souls” was a great start to the series!
To begin with, I liked the way the author told the story. It was interesting to see the flashbacks between the past and the present and how the two storylines interconnected. The storyline from the 1600s gave the book a haunted, gothic feel as Lady Catherine does something that changes her life. The present storyline was also eerie, romantic, and mysterious as Ava moves in and sees the mystery guy. There are quite a few twists and turns that I did not expect, which added nicely to the plot. But there is much more to the story than your usual young adult fantasy with paranormal entities. You have time travel, mistaken identities, centuries-old curses, and so much more.
Moreover, I liked all the three main characters. I loved the triangle between Ava, Maddox, and Laith, and it was interesting to see how Ava toggles between the two. My favorite character was Laith because I thought he was very complex. Initially, he comes off as a negative character. However, as the story progressed, you realize that there are reasons behind his actions, making you see him differently. Similarly, I adored Josh and thought made the story lighthearted with humor.
The author also ends the story in a gripping cliffhanger that makes you want to pick the next book to see how the story continues. Overall, I thought “Splintered Souls” was a lovely start to the series, and curious to see how it continues.
January 3, 2023
While I don’t read too much young adult romance anymore, I can appreciate that had I read this in 2015, I would have rated it 5 stars—which is why I’m still giving it 5 stars now.
The author has an immersive writing style and combined with the story which hits you with twist after twist, it’s hard to put down.
The author has an immersive writing style and combined with the story which hits you with twist after twist, it’s hard to put down.
Want to read
September 9, 2021🎁 FREE on Amazon today (9/9/2021)! 🎁
September 20, 2023
I listened to audible version, read by Stephanie Keefer. One of my favorite narrators. The narration was great. The story was intriguing. But seemed to b take a long time to get into it. Probably good for YA readers.
July 2, 2016
I am so excited to bring you a review today for Erica Lucke Dean’s “Splintered Souls,” which is the first book in her Flames of Time Series! I sat down to read this a few hours ago and literally only got out of my chair for a quick second so that I could finish it. This paranormal romance is a page-turner from the first paragraph and will leave you wanting more when you’re finished.
“Splintered Souls” begins in 1654 with Lady Catherine Fairchild rushing to see a witch regarding her unborn son. Lady Catherine wants a blessing upon her baby, but also wants a spell to assure that he will find his soul mate. The old woman refuses to delve into anything having to do with soul mates, but then another woman appears that is willing to do the spell. Lady Catherine is warned of the severe consequences but still insists that it is done. Fast forward to 2014, and Ava is moving to Maine with her mom and her younger brother, Josh. Ava is beginning college and had not intended to move from Virginia to Maine, but since the death of her father she feels that she should go with them and attend school at the University of Maine. As soon as they arrive at her Grandmother’s old house in Port Michael, Ava begins experiencing strange things here and there, but then she looks out the window and sees the guy of her dreams. Once she sees Maddox, she is consumed with trying to find him and find out who he is, never realizing how her life would change.
I can’t really talk about the plot anymore without spoilers, which I absolutely do not want to spoil any of the surprises and twists and turns that come with reading this novel. “Splintered Souls” is a roller-coaster ride of suspense, romance, and trying to figure out what is real and what isn’t. Ava constantly wrestles with understanding things that are going on around her, doubting herself, and struggling with what she eventually learns. As the pieces of the puzzle start to come together, partly through Maddox and partly through Ava’s dreams, she then experiences a whirlwind of conflicting emotions and battles within herself to figure out what the truth is. The idea of soul mates has always fascinated me and there have been books or movies about soulmates before, but nothing like this. Erica Lucke Dean’s writing is magnetic, pulling you into the romanticism of the story, yet consistently reminding you of the dark cloud that hangs over them. “Splintered Souls” contains fantastic characters struggling with what we would think of as the impossible, yet the author’s writing makes it completely believable. This book will take you on a journey that you will be very disappointed to see come to an end. I cannot wait for the next book in this series and more from this outstanding writer!
*Disclaimer: I received a copy of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.
“Splintered Souls” begins in 1654 with Lady Catherine Fairchild rushing to see a witch regarding her unborn son. Lady Catherine wants a blessing upon her baby, but also wants a spell to assure that he will find his soul mate. The old woman refuses to delve into anything having to do with soul mates, but then another woman appears that is willing to do the spell. Lady Catherine is warned of the severe consequences but still insists that it is done. Fast forward to 2014, and Ava is moving to Maine with her mom and her younger brother, Josh. Ava is beginning college and had not intended to move from Virginia to Maine, but since the death of her father she feels that she should go with them and attend school at the University of Maine. As soon as they arrive at her Grandmother’s old house in Port Michael, Ava begins experiencing strange things here and there, but then she looks out the window and sees the guy of her dreams. Once she sees Maddox, she is consumed with trying to find him and find out who he is, never realizing how her life would change.
I can’t really talk about the plot anymore without spoilers, which I absolutely do not want to spoil any of the surprises and twists and turns that come with reading this novel. “Splintered Souls” is a roller-coaster ride of suspense, romance, and trying to figure out what is real and what isn’t. Ava constantly wrestles with understanding things that are going on around her, doubting herself, and struggling with what she eventually learns. As the pieces of the puzzle start to come together, partly through Maddox and partly through Ava’s dreams, she then experiences a whirlwind of conflicting emotions and battles within herself to figure out what the truth is. The idea of soul mates has always fascinated me and there have been books or movies about soulmates before, but nothing like this. Erica Lucke Dean’s writing is magnetic, pulling you into the romanticism of the story, yet consistently reminding you of the dark cloud that hangs over them. “Splintered Souls” contains fantastic characters struggling with what we would think of as the impossible, yet the author’s writing makes it completely believable. This book will take you on a journey that you will be very disappointed to see come to an end. I cannot wait for the next book in this series and more from this outstanding writer!
*Disclaimer: I received a copy of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.
nope-not-4-me
February 25, 2017Amazon Kindle $0.99 on 2/25/17 (was $5.99)
Love the cover, will personally not be buying ☹
This is a love triangle with brothers Time Travel PNR book.
And you know how I feel about my love triangles :/
If the all mighty L.T. doesn’t bother you, give this book a try! I hear this author knows how to write a good book ;)
Love the cover, will personally not be buying ☹
This is a love triangle with brothers Time Travel PNR book.
And you know how I feel about my love triangles :/
If the all mighty L.T. doesn’t bother you, give this book a try! I hear this author knows how to write a good book ;)
September 24, 2015
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Splintered Souls begins with an intriguing scene from the distant past and we are then transported back to the present day and meet Ava, the protagonist in the story. Ava is a very likeable character and easy to empathise with. I enjoyed the banter between Ava and her younger brother Josh and I loved the character of Sam, a new friend Ava makes when her family has to move to a new town. The other kids Ava hung out with at school were quite believable and are the types of young people I would expect to come across at college.
Very soon into the story we are given a glimpse of a mysterious hot new guy that has caught Ava’s interest. The story then follows Ava making new friends and fitting into her new college life as well as her encounters with this mysterious boy. Together with Ava, we try and work out the puzzle of who this guy really is and why she has such a perplexing burning desire to be with him. This is not an “insta-love” story. It is clearly stated throughout the book that both Ava and her love interest are attracted to one another in some inexplicable way and that there is some mysterious pull trying to keep them together. It’s not until you get about halfway into the book that it becomes a lot clearer as to what is going on and which explains their obsessive attraction to each other. There is a third person who appears in the story to create the love triangle and makes the plot more complex and there was also an unexpected twist in the plot that I never saw coming.
As the book progresses and we are given more details about what happened in the very first scene from the past and how that relates to the here and now, it starts to become hazy as to which of the two boys is actually the “good” one. I found myself changing my mind about each of the boys until almost right at the very end, but even then, I still am not so sure which is the good one and which is the bad one!
The ending was action packed and very exciting as well as being a cliff hanger and I cannot wait for the next book to find out what happens from here.
Splintered Souls is a very well written book which is easy to read and hard to put down. It was an enjoyable read and a great start to a new series. This story will appeal to those that like love triangles, good versus evil, and romance stories about soul mates.
Splintered Souls begins with an intriguing scene from the distant past and we are then transported back to the present day and meet Ava, the protagonist in the story. Ava is a very likeable character and easy to empathise with. I enjoyed the banter between Ava and her younger brother Josh and I loved the character of Sam, a new friend Ava makes when her family has to move to a new town. The other kids Ava hung out with at school were quite believable and are the types of young people I would expect to come across at college.
Very soon into the story we are given a glimpse of a mysterious hot new guy that has caught Ava’s interest. The story then follows Ava making new friends and fitting into her new college life as well as her encounters with this mysterious boy. Together with Ava, we try and work out the puzzle of who this guy really is and why she has such a perplexing burning desire to be with him. This is not an “insta-love” story. It is clearly stated throughout the book that both Ava and her love interest are attracted to one another in some inexplicable way and that there is some mysterious pull trying to keep them together. It’s not until you get about halfway into the book that it becomes a lot clearer as to what is going on and which explains their obsessive attraction to each other. There is a third person who appears in the story to create the love triangle and makes the plot more complex and there was also an unexpected twist in the plot that I never saw coming.
As the book progresses and we are given more details about what happened in the very first scene from the past and how that relates to the here and now, it starts to become hazy as to which of the two boys is actually the “good” one. I found myself changing my mind about each of the boys until almost right at the very end, but even then, I still am not so sure which is the good one and which is the bad one!
The ending was action packed and very exciting as well as being a cliff hanger and I cannot wait for the next book to find out what happens from here.
Splintered Souls is a very well written book which is easy to read and hard to put down. It was an enjoyable read and a great start to a new series. This story will appeal to those that like love triangles, good versus evil, and romance stories about soul mates.
October 3, 2015
4 Stars
Okay so I enjoyed this book and couldn't put it down, although I did have some issues along the way I still enjoyed it and have no problem recommending this to anyone who wants to read it.
I am just going to hide my review as a spoiler because Im really not sure if I've given away parts or not and to review this book I just wanted to talk about it. So just a heads up!
Overall I give this book 4 stars because in the end I actually enjoyed it despite my little nit picking over things and I will be looking forward to reading the next one
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Okay so I enjoyed this book and couldn't put it down, although I did have some issues along the way I still enjoyed it and have no problem recommending this to anyone who wants to read it.
I am just going to hide my review as a spoiler because Im really not sure if I've given away parts or not and to review this book I just wanted to talk about it. So just a heads up!
Overall I give this book 4 stars because in the end I actually enjoyed it despite my little nit picking over things and I will be looking forward to reading the next one
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
November 11, 2015
A page turner with great characters!
The quick version: Ava just moved to a new town with her family (after her father’s death) to attend a small college. Enter the sexy guy she sees from a distance. Now she can’t get him out of her head. Is he a ghost? Her soul mate? What gives? But it goes so much deeper than that, and it all started more than 300 years ago. Cue spooky music.
At first, I was worried; the opening chapter was kind of dry (to me) because I’m not a big fan of historical fiction, and I thought I was going to be resistantly stuck in the boring past for the next 200 pages, albeit with witches and such. Then we jumped ahead to the present day where I met Ava, and my hesitancy to continue reading flew out the window from the moment she used the phrase “colder than a witch’s tit” in the second sentence of her appearance. Ava and I were pretty much BFFs from then on.
Normally I’m not a big fan of “insta-love” but this was more than just insta-love between Ava and her mystery guy. But I hate spoilers, so I am not going to go into any more detail than that. I thought the title was a big hint with how she and this guy are connected, but it ISN’T what you think! That just made me enjoy this book even more. Surprises lurking around every corner. And amazing, well-developed characters just added further appeal to the story.
I couldn’t stop reading. I couldn’t put it down. I can’t make myself any clearer that I really enjoyed this book! And then it ended! Why did it have to end?!? That’s the only thing I didn’t like about it. I wanted to read more of it, and then it was over! Guess I will just have to wait around for book 2!
The quick version: Ava just moved to a new town with her family (after her father’s death) to attend a small college. Enter the sexy guy she sees from a distance. Now she can’t get him out of her head. Is he a ghost? Her soul mate? What gives? But it goes so much deeper than that, and it all started more than 300 years ago. Cue spooky music.
At first, I was worried; the opening chapter was kind of dry (to me) because I’m not a big fan of historical fiction, and I thought I was going to be resistantly stuck in the boring past for the next 200 pages, albeit with witches and such. Then we jumped ahead to the present day where I met Ava, and my hesitancy to continue reading flew out the window from the moment she used the phrase “colder than a witch’s tit” in the second sentence of her appearance. Ava and I were pretty much BFFs from then on.
Normally I’m not a big fan of “insta-love” but this was more than just insta-love between Ava and her mystery guy. But I hate spoilers, so I am not going to go into any more detail than that. I thought the title was a big hint with how she and this guy are connected, but it ISN’T what you think! That just made me enjoy this book even more. Surprises lurking around every corner. And amazing, well-developed characters just added further appeal to the story.
I couldn’t stop reading. I couldn’t put it down. I can’t make myself any clearer that I really enjoyed this book! And then it ended! Why did it have to end?!? That’s the only thing I didn’t like about it. I wanted to read more of it, and then it was over! Guess I will just have to wait around for book 2!
May 8, 2021
Interview with the author: http://dreamerjbookreviews.blogspot.c...
2021 update: 5 stars, this book is even better upon re-reading!
After her father’s unexpected death, Ava decides to move with her mother and younger brother and attend University of Maine, rather than Georgetown. Set in more of a high school atmosphere than college, Ava finds herself befriending a clique of girls who enjoy nothing more than gossiping about, or kissing, hot guys.
Ava is drawn to a mysterious hot guy herself, and when he finally introduces himself, Ava’s world quickly spirals out of control. Caught in the middle of a centuries-old curse, which is revealed slowly throughout the book, she finds herself caught between twin time-traveling brothers, Maddox and Laith. There are twists and turns along the way, leading to a surprise cliff-hanger ending.
‘Splintered Souls’ was a quick and easy read. I enjoyed the tension between the clique-ish girls and battling brothers. Best of all was the connection between the main characters and the involvement of soul-mates as a way of explaining the supernatural link between them. Looking forward to the next chapter in the Flames of Time series!
Perfect for fans of Rysa Walker's 'Timebound' book series and the CW show, 'The Vampire Diaries.'
Thanks to NetGalley for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Read more reviews! http://dreamerjbookreviews.blogspot.com/
2021 update: 5 stars, this book is even better upon re-reading!
After her father’s unexpected death, Ava decides to move with her mother and younger brother and attend University of Maine, rather than Georgetown. Set in more of a high school atmosphere than college, Ava finds herself befriending a clique of girls who enjoy nothing more than gossiping about, or kissing, hot guys.
Ava is drawn to a mysterious hot guy herself, and when he finally introduces himself, Ava’s world quickly spirals out of control. Caught in the middle of a centuries-old curse, which is revealed slowly throughout the book, she finds herself caught between twin time-traveling brothers, Maddox and Laith. There are twists and turns along the way, leading to a surprise cliff-hanger ending.
‘Splintered Souls’ was a quick and easy read. I enjoyed the tension between the clique-ish girls and battling brothers. Best of all was the connection between the main characters and the involvement of soul-mates as a way of explaining the supernatural link between them. Looking forward to the next chapter in the Flames of Time series!
Perfect for fans of Rysa Walker's 'Timebound' book series and the CW show, 'The Vampire Diaries.'
Thanks to NetGalley for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Read more reviews! http://dreamerjbookreviews.blogspot.com/
October 12, 2016
4.5 Stars
Ava Flynn is your average college student. Well, except she turned down a scholarship to the college she wanted to attend so she could move to Maine with her mother and brother. Oh, and she's part of an old curse that she knows nothing about until she meets Maddox, the guy she's drawn to like a moth to a flame. Like I said - average.
Maddox. So sexy, so protective, so amazing. Every time he's near, Ava feels a tingle on the back of her neck. There's something very special about him. Once she finds out their connection, she's rocked to her very core. But there's more to their story. Even after all that she discovers, she wants him more than anything.
Time travel, a witch, and above all, a romance that goes back for so long it makes your heart ache for the characters. This story has it all. Erica Lucke Dean weaves a wonderful story full of suspense, great supporting characters, and my favorite, a love triangle. Once you're finished reading, you'll be left trying to decide which guy you're rooting for. I know the way I'm leaning, but I'm not telling until I get to read book two. More information is needed until I make my final decision. ;)
Book received in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed on behalf of Once Upon An Alpha.
Ava Flynn is your average college student. Well, except she turned down a scholarship to the college she wanted to attend so she could move to Maine with her mother and brother. Oh, and she's part of an old curse that she knows nothing about until she meets Maddox, the guy she's drawn to like a moth to a flame. Like I said - average.
Maddox. So sexy, so protective, so amazing. Every time he's near, Ava feels a tingle on the back of her neck. There's something very special about him. Once she finds out their connection, she's rocked to her very core. But there's more to their story. Even after all that she discovers, she wants him more than anything.
Time travel, a witch, and above all, a romance that goes back for so long it makes your heart ache for the characters. This story has it all. Erica Lucke Dean weaves a wonderful story full of suspense, great supporting characters, and my favorite, a love triangle. Once you're finished reading, you'll be left trying to decide which guy you're rooting for. I know the way I'm leaning, but I'm not telling until I get to read book two. More information is needed until I make my final decision. ;)
Book received in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed on behalf of Once Upon An Alpha.
May 2, 2016
I received a copy of this book directly from the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Why did this book have to end?
That’s what I shouted when I closed the cover of Splintered Souls by Erica Lucke Dean. It was that good. From the very beginning, the book drew me in with its rich narrative voice and complex characters, and by the time the romance kicked in—well… I was done for.
The plot was engaging, and the characters were equal parts complex and heartbreakingly perfect. The pace moved at a steady jaunt and didn’t let up even as the book ended. Honestly, I can’t think of a single problem to complain about. I loved this book. Maddox, Laith, and Ava were only a few of the amazing cast of characters, and I can’t even begin to pick which was my favorite.
If you like New Adult Romance, particularly with a bent towards the paranormal and time travel, I would highly recommend that you pick up this book. I can’t wait to read more into the series. Now excuse me while I go look up everything the author’s ever written.
Why did this book have to end?
That’s what I shouted when I closed the cover of Splintered Souls by Erica Lucke Dean. It was that good. From the very beginning, the book drew me in with its rich narrative voice and complex characters, and by the time the romance kicked in—well… I was done for.
The plot was engaging, and the characters were equal parts complex and heartbreakingly perfect. The pace moved at a steady jaunt and didn’t let up even as the book ended. Honestly, I can’t think of a single problem to complain about. I loved this book. Maddox, Laith, and Ava were only a few of the amazing cast of characters, and I can’t even begin to pick which was my favorite.
If you like New Adult Romance, particularly with a bent towards the paranormal and time travel, I would highly recommend that you pick up this book. I can’t wait to read more into the series. Now excuse me while I go look up everything the author’s ever written.
July 11, 2016
The introduction to the novel wasn't appealing to me. I was resigned to the idea that I might not like this book and probably get bored as I read it.
The chapter that follows wasn't to my liking either. I don't like Ava to be honest. Her character turned me off. Add to that the fact that she swooned over a guy for being totally 'hot' just after a quick glance through the window. She's everything I don't like in a character or at least she was everything I don't like in a way the character is introduced. If it wasn't for the mystery of this guy, I won't probably stop reading. But curiosity got the better of me and so I continued on.
The mystery in the novel, as well as the conflict was well played and I can say carefully thought of and I enjoyed that part really well. I can say even though I didn't like how it started, I am glad I continued reading until the end. Actually, I didn't even notice I came so far into the book.
The chapter that follows wasn't to my liking either. I don't like Ava to be honest. Her character turned me off. Add to that the fact that she swooned over a guy for being totally 'hot' just after a quick glance through the window. She's everything I don't like in a character or at least she was everything I don't like in a way the character is introduced. If it wasn't for the mystery of this guy, I won't probably stop reading. But curiosity got the better of me and so I continued on.
The mystery in the novel, as well as the conflict was well played and I can say carefully thought of and I enjoyed that part really well. I can say even though I didn't like how it started, I am glad I continued reading until the end. Actually, I didn't even notice I came so far into the book.
October 1, 2015
Unique paranormal romance that kept me guessing. Twin brothers vie for the love of their soul mate in a tale that kept me guessing and trying to predict what would happen next. Because of the struggle between the brothers, this is a much darker novel than the author's other works. I am a fan of her work and loved this book, but because of the darker nature of the story, it didn't have some of the charm of her other books. However, if you are looking for a story that will draw you right in and keep you hooked until the very last page, you have found it. This is the first book in a new series and I can't wait to see what she has in store for us in future books.
November 20, 2017
Can a Soul-Bond exist? (An audio review)
First: be warned.
This is the first book of two and ends on a cliff-hanger. The second book is not out on audio yet…but after listening to this book, you’ll be clamoring for the next one.
I’ll be honest – paranormal-fantasy, and other books that require that level of creativity to write, always leave me in awe. This book is one of my favourite kinds – a contemporary setting with some nice time travel thrown in. But I digress.
When Ava Flynn moves to a small town in Maine to help her mother and brother cope with the untimely death of her father, she has low expectations. Instead of attending Georgetown, a large prestigious university in a big city, she’s stuck in a small town and an insular social group. She’s lucky to meet another freshman and now she is a member of a clique.
But it’s the leather-jacket-clad man leaning against the tree across the road the night she moves in who sets her mind spinning and her hormones racing out of control.
Is there such a thing as a soul mate? Ava’s mother’s grief demonstrates that love exists and loss is real. How about the mysterious stranger? Maddox is, by necessity, an enigmatic person. He hides his history. It’s easy to see he’s connected to the opening scene in the book – Lady Catherine going out in the middle of the night to meet with a conjurer.
In the seventeenth century.
As the story unfolds, Maddox’s layers are peeled away like the skin of an onion, each layer leading one closer and closer to tears because as much as Ava believes Maddox is her soul mate, things are never quite that simple.
Stephanie T. Keefer is a great choice for narrator. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and can’t wait for the conclusion.
First: be warned.
This is the first book of two and ends on a cliff-hanger. The second book is not out on audio yet…but after listening to this book, you’ll be clamoring for the next one.
I’ll be honest – paranormal-fantasy, and other books that require that level of creativity to write, always leave me in awe. This book is one of my favourite kinds – a contemporary setting with some nice time travel thrown in. But I digress.
When Ava Flynn moves to a small town in Maine to help her mother and brother cope with the untimely death of her father, she has low expectations. Instead of attending Georgetown, a large prestigious university in a big city, she’s stuck in a small town and an insular social group. She’s lucky to meet another freshman and now she is a member of a clique.
But it’s the leather-jacket-clad man leaning against the tree across the road the night she moves in who sets her mind spinning and her hormones racing out of control.
Is there such a thing as a soul mate? Ava’s mother’s grief demonstrates that love exists and loss is real. How about the mysterious stranger? Maddox is, by necessity, an enigmatic person. He hides his history. It’s easy to see he’s connected to the opening scene in the book – Lady Catherine going out in the middle of the night to meet with a conjurer.
In the seventeenth century.
As the story unfolds, Maddox’s layers are peeled away like the skin of an onion, each layer leading one closer and closer to tears because as much as Ava believes Maddox is her soul mate, things are never quite that simple.
Stephanie T. Keefer is a great choice for narrator. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and can’t wait for the conclusion.
January 13, 2020
The prologue in this one gets right into action. A historical backdrop with the conflicts from the time of Charles II is established. A woman is pregnant and fears that her child will be deemed the son of a traitor. Her husband is missing, perhaps captured. In desperation, despite the dangers involved, she turns to a local witch.
When we start the story proper, it is modern day. In many ways it reads like a typical YA Romance story about a girl about to start college. The father died, the family moved, and she's going to live at home while attending a small campus. She meets a few local girls, one of which takes an instant disliking to her and is really bitchy. So far ticking all the boxes, including spotting a cute guy.
However, there's a mystery to the cute guy. It takes quite a while to get back to the historic part of the story or for the time travel element to come out, but when it does the title makes perfect sense and the concept is actually rather intriguing and original. The writing is also good so although I'm not really into college settings, it kept my attention.
The second part of the story really drew me in and got very exciting, but then it stopped on a cliffhanger ending. I presume another book is planned as some of the salient points were never explained, like how the time travel aspect works, though there was a good opportunity. Also, a few inconsistencies in the characters began to emerge so though the writing itself is very good, the plotting left a lot of holes and the ending was far too abrupt.
When we start the story proper, it is modern day. In many ways it reads like a typical YA Romance story about a girl about to start college. The father died, the family moved, and she's going to live at home while attending a small campus. She meets a few local girls, one of which takes an instant disliking to her and is really bitchy. So far ticking all the boxes, including spotting a cute guy.
However, there's a mystery to the cute guy. It takes quite a while to get back to the historic part of the story or for the time travel element to come out, but when it does the title makes perfect sense and the concept is actually rather intriguing and original. The writing is also good so although I'm not really into college settings, it kept my attention.
The second part of the story really drew me in and got very exciting, but then it stopped on a cliffhanger ending. I presume another book is planned as some of the salient points were never explained, like how the time travel aspect works, though there was a good opportunity. Also, a few inconsistencies in the characters began to emerge so though the writing itself is very good, the plotting left a lot of holes and the ending was far too abrupt.
April 22, 2022
The writing is decent and that's about all the book has going for it. I have no idea why the publisher could not be up front about this being a YA. Much of the story is set at a small commuter college but it is painfully obvious that this was originally suppose to be a high school, what with all of the characters taking classes every day, all day long and meeting up for lunch daily at the school cafeteria.
Also painfully obvious is that the female main character was suppose to be a typical oblivious teen whose biggest concern is how to get close to the hot boy. Instead there is this veneer of gravitas in which her dad suddenly died and out of concern for mom and younger brother, Ava decides to give up her full ride scholarship to a prestige university so she can be with them. And by be with them, the author means totally ignore them. There is no discussion or bonding with her family over the very recent loss of dad. Her mom and brother are just stereotypical annoyances. Although to be fair, she did once consider making dinner while her mom was at work before dismissing that idea in favor of retreating to her room to spend more time contemplating the hot guy.
Apparently there is suppose to be time travel, and a love triangle but at 30% in, the book is still firmly in the land of YA generica and I'm utterly bored. Scanning the reviews, I have learned that this apparently is just one third of the story, with the three parts forming a single story rather than an actual trilogy to which I say, "Hell no."
DNF 30% Authors could avoid some painful reviews if they stopped trying to pretend their book is something it's not.
Also painfully obvious is that the female main character was suppose to be a typical oblivious teen whose biggest concern is how to get close to the hot boy. Instead there is this veneer of gravitas in which her dad suddenly died and out of concern for mom and younger brother, Ava decides to give up her full ride scholarship to a prestige university so she can be with them. And by be with them, the author means totally ignore them. There is no discussion or bonding with her family over the very recent loss of dad. Her mom and brother are just stereotypical annoyances. Although to be fair, she did once consider making dinner while her mom was at work before dismissing that idea in favor of retreating to her room to spend more time contemplating the hot guy.
Apparently there is suppose to be time travel, and a love triangle but at 30% in, the book is still firmly in the land of YA generica and I'm utterly bored. Scanning the reviews, I have learned that this apparently is just one third of the story, with the three parts forming a single story rather than an actual trilogy to which I say, "Hell no."
DNF 30% Authors could avoid some painful reviews if they stopped trying to pretend their book is something it's not.
February 19, 2017
With the introductory chapter set in the 1650s and not much other orientation to this book other than it's an Erica Lucke Dean title, I wasn't sure what to expect. The historical romance angle flew out the window pretty quickly with the jump to modern-day Virginia and a 19-year-old getting ready to relocate to Maine to keep an eye on her newly widowed mother and younger brother. The story built a head of steam quickly and hooked me despite being another New Adult story of a young woman trying to reconcile the huge number of massive changes in her life. The time-traveling twins were an unexpected twist adding depth and flavor to the story. The number of themes Dean deals with--the impact of insanity on a family, the nature of dealing with the occult, the repercussions of finding your soulmate, the complications of time travel--none is easy on its own. She wrapped them all into a story ball that was engaging and entertaining. The only reason she loses a star from me are my personal frustrations with such "young" characters and that the story ends in a cliffhanger. That I enjoyed the story nonetheless is a nod to Dean's storytelling prowess.
*I received a free copy of this book from the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
*I received a free copy of this book from the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
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