Symphony of Light and Winter

Symphony of Light #1

by Renea Mason, Noah Michael Levine (Narrator), Erin deWard (Narrator)

Symphony of Light and Winter

One woman. Seven men. All bound by one man’s undying devotion.

Fundraiser Linden Hill has a knack for reading people. She always knows which conversations will put a prospect at ease, which drink will loosen a patron’s lips—or his wallet, and how cleavage will make a donor sweeten the deal. She’s even foreseen her dateless weekends four hundred and sixty-four times in a row.

But ten years after watching life drain from her former mentor’s and first love’s eyes, her skills for divining the predictable are lost. When Cyril returns, he’s still gorgeous, but this time he’s beyond human, far less dead, and pissed. His lack of memory drives him to desperate acts, and his turbulent re-acquaintance with Linden pulls her into his war with a creature hell-bent on his destruction. His group of six supernatural men share a tantalizing secret, but despite the hunger, it’s love that leads her to sacrifice everything to save him…

Genres: Paranormal, Paranormal Romance, Romance, Fantasy, Magic, Audiobook, Erotica

Audible Audio

First published June 19, 2013

About the author

"Sexy, fun and so creative it makes my head spin! I'd read the damn phone book if Renea Mason wrote it."
-NYT and USA TODAY Bestselling author ROBYN PETERMAN

Multi-award-winning and bestselling author Renea Mason writes paranormal and contemporary erotic romance that challenges the definition of conventional love. As the author of the 2016 Audie award-winning Curing Doctor Vincent, Renea prides herself on bringing readers unique storylines and memorable characters in her tales of love, lust and mystery.

When she isn't putting her fingers on the keyboard crafting sensual stories filled with intelligent, larger-than-life lovers, she spends time in the Laurel Mountains of Western Pennsylvania with her beyond-supportive husband, two wonderful sons and two loving but needy cats.

AWARDS & RECOGNITION

Curing Doctor Vincent

WINNER - 2016 Audie Award (Audio Publisher's Association)

3rd Place - 2016 Romance Writers of America New England Chapter - Erotic Romance

1st Place - Ménage Romances Readers Favorite Award - Erotica 2016

1st Place - Book with Most Original Plot - Shameless Book Club Awards 2015

1st Place - Best Ménage and more... - The Romance Reviews Readers Choice Awards 2015

2nd Place - Best Contemporary Erotic Romance -The Paranormal Romance Guild Reviewers Choice Award 2015

Symphony of Light and Winter

2nd Place - Best New Paranormal Series of 2013 - Paranormal Cravings' Battle of the Books 2013

3rd Place - Best New Paranormal Romance of 2013 - The Paranormal Romance Guild's Reviewers Choice Awards 2013

2nd Place - Erotica/Romantica - Write Touch Contest - Wisconsin Romance Writers - Romance Writers of America Chapter

Finalist - Paranormal - The Passionate Plume Contest - Passionate Ink - National Romance Writers of America Chapter

Finalist - Best First Book - National Excellence in Romance Fiction Award - First Coast Romance Writers- Romance Writers of America Chapter

Finalist - Paranormal Romance - Aspen Gold Contest -Heart of Denver Romance Writers of America - Romance Writers of America Chapter

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Reviews

[Valerie Twombly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This author has done an amazing job with her first novel. If you love paranormal romance with a twist then I highly recommend you give this a read.

From the very first page I was hooked. The characters Cryil and Linden, drew me in. I laughed and yes, I even had a tear. What I loved about this book was it is not your run of the mill paranormal. Ms. Mason has created a new world never seen before. I can't wait for the next book!

[Pam Nelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 freaking HOT stars.

Keeping my original review - just a re-read.
This book has it all mystery, suspense and it will burn you from the inside out!

Linden Hill is different but doesn't really know why. She isn't your timid shy girl oh no, she has grit and balls. I really enjoyed getting to know her. I love her profanity!

Cyril was more a mystery. I really wasn't a fan of his until near the end of the book, then he eventually grew on me. You kind of love to hate him. You will see when you read the book.

The narration on this book is by far one of my most favorites, her laugh made me laugh. And don’t even get me started on his voice. Holy moly.. And the sexy scenes I felt like a voyeur!!! I couldn't get enough of Noah & Erin, I will be on the lookout for more books narrated by them.

Just how I like my romance I tell ya, I am no stranger to paranormal that’s for sure but it’s not your normal paranormal and that was awesome it was fresh and fun to read.
I want to read the rest of this series now I can’t get enough I want no that s to timid a word NEED to know what happens.

Overton… and Michael I want to know where this is going. I kind of have a soft spot for Overton, even though he didn't want to be gentlemen he totally was and scored points in my book for that. Who says chivalry and honor are dead not I that is for dang sure.

Here is a quote or 3 I loved

“Come on you beautiful disgusting creature.” - Haha oh Cyril the flattery

“There must be love to make love” – Truth!

“It was need, Linden. I don’t want to need anything. I can make. I can destroy. Need implies something controls me and nothing controls me.” – Cyril you will understand in time.

Worth a credit worth the money it’s worth it all.

*You don't have to like my review but its 100% my opinion, and I am allowed to have it.*

[Kishan Paul · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once I started reading, I couldn't put it down. Funny, sexy, and suspenseful, Renea Mason's novel had me laughing and eager to see what happens next. If you like paranormal romance, definitely check out this one.

[Aubrey Wynne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I do not read paranormal, it is not my genre. That said, this novel pulled me in with the first chapter and never let me go. Ms. Mason skillfully combines lust, love, regret and humor into an unusual storyline. Her heroine is believable and sexy and the hero is a sensual bad boy that gets your blood pumping. She may have pulled me over to the dark side.

[Dianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Filled with a dark presence, an intensely detailed plot and the heat of an erotic dream, Symphony of Light and Winter by Renea Mason is one amazing read! Love, lust, arrogance, need and passion make for a spellbinding paranormal adult read that defies being categorized in just one genre.

With a shared past, death, separation and “re-birth” two very strong characters find their love to know no limits, but how long before they are separated again, and what secrets are held deep within as they are drawn into a supernatural war against a demon after their destruction?

Renea Mason has set an amazing stage filled with unique and well-developed characters that define power and grace, with a touch of arrogant self-confidence, caught in a web that spans time and defies complete understanding. She tests the limits of her characters with each page, while maintaining a veil of mystery and intrigue. Very well written with intense character interaction, attitude and the growing heat of romance, Ms. Mason has proven she can write with a magnetic pull that will grip your imagination and hold you prisoner until that very last page!

I received a review copy as part of the Symphony of Light and Winter Virtual Tour and Giveaway stopping at Tome Tender November 7, 2013!

Published by: Etopia Press (June 19, 2013)
Genre: Erotic Fantasy-Adults
Page Count: 256
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble

For more reviews check out Tome Tender's Book Blog or find us on Facebook.

[ZARIA (Sheldon Cooper lover) · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading and loving the BDB series I've been trying to read any pnr series that look interesting. I purchased this book because it looked intriguing and it had many good reviews.
where do I begin. Yoww....sa! The characters are really interesting and different. Excellent mix of love story and mystery….
It was hard for me to put down and I can't wait to read more. Amazingly fresh, funny, entertaining, inventive, dangerous, sexy, hot, erotic, heart warming,and JUST PLAIN GOOD!

[Alyssa Turner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Symphony of Light and Winter is an intelligent book, steeped in philosophy and thoughtful allegory. Creativity abounds in a world unlike any I've read before. Cyril is complex hero, who is irresistible despite his prickly ways. High action and intense chemistry keep you glued to each page. I enjoyed my time in this world of tragic heroes, art and classical music. Kudos to Renea Mason for creating an entirely unique character in Cyril and weaving a compelling beginning to what will surely be an epic journey in the forthcoming series.

[Turn The Page Bookstore · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this paranormal romance by Renea Mason. It has a unique take on the paranoraml aspect of things like nothing that I have ever read. Cyril and Linden are HOT together and who doesn't like a little bit of that in their romance books? This is definitely a series that I will be following in the future! 5 stars all the way!!!

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

An oh-so-sexy paranormal with a twist. You won't be able to put down once you start. You'll fall in love with Cyril & Linden. I know I did!

[Daisy Sloan · Rating 4 out of 5]

OMG! This book is not what I expected AT ALL! I’m not really sure what I was expecting but this wasn’t it! This is going to be a really hard review to write because I don’t want to give anything away. Part of the draw of this book is trying to figure out who and what Cyril is.

Cyril is an intriguing man who apparently died 10 years ago. Or so Linden thought. But now, here he is again. Linden thinks she’s losing her mind. Personally I would too!

Cyril is mysterious, dangerous, powerful and OMG sexy as hell! Cyril manages to screw up one thing after another. He’s rash, and to quote him, a selfish bastard! He’s a jerk! A complete and total jerk. He almost has no redeeming qualities. And then, you get his story and it all makes sense. It all makes sense why he’s a jerk and a selfish bastard. It makes him that much more lovable. It all makes sense.

Linden was hard for me to understand. I had a hard time connecting with her until about 60 percent into the book. About that point in time I began to understand her and feel for her. Before that I was frustrated with her and didn’t understand her reactions to Cyril.

There were a couple of ick moments for me in the book. But those ick moments added something to the story. Renea Mason has provided us with a unique story with unique characters. These characters are unique for multiple reasons. The ick factor just plays a part in that and makes it that much better. (It’s not that icky, just a little, but it works!) This is the first time I’ve seen a view like this on the paranormal and I loved it.

We are left with a cliffhanger. It’s a very unique cliffhanger and not one I was anticipating. Renea Mason caught me completely off guard with the resolution. It was definitely tension filled. The cliffhanger is a doozy and I can’t wait to see what happens in the next one.

Authors often choose the name of their book for a specific reason. Most of the time I get the name of the book and occasionally I do not. For the first half of the book I understood where Symphony and Light came into play. It wasn’t until the ending that I understood the Winter. It was a perfect title for this book.

Overall this was a unique story (yes, I’ve used that word a lot, but it FITS!) that was told pretty well. There were a couple of spots where I got frustrated but the rest of it worked so well, I was willing to push through those. Even my difficulty connecting to Linden didn’t deter me from pushing through, I was so enthralled with the rest of the story! I see many places this could go and many characters that have some real potential for the future books. I’m ready and can’t wait!

I received a copy of this from the author in exchange for an honest review.

[Lady · Rating 5 out of 5]

•••I listened to the Audible Audio Edition of this book•••



This was my first experience with Michael Levine and Erin deWard ’s performance and I thoroughly enjoyed it! Michael is very good at accents and that lent another layer to his characters. Erin has a very good grasp at conveying myriad emotions. Overall I don't think any other pair of narrators could have pulled this off as well. I hope they continue to work together until the end of the series :)



××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××××



In The Blood



This series must be listened to (or read) in order. The first book is Imposter's Kiss found at Chapter 22 in the Audible Audio Edition. This is the second book. I can't wait to listen to Between The Waters!


Thinking Cyril (the love of her life) dead (since he died in her arms) or a figment of her imagination (as Michael told her) Linden moved on with her life. She recovered from her coma under Michael's care. Eventually he talked her into marrying him... With disastrous results. She woke up in bed with him dead next to her (they had consummated their marriage) the next morning. She vowed never to have sex or love again. Everything changes th e night of the Symphony Fund Raiser when her dead love walks into the room. Can he truly be alive? How? What is he? Why doesn't he remember her? Will being with him kill him again? Or is he exempt?



Cyril has no idea how the gorgeous creature in front of him gained his blood! He has no memory of her whatsoever! She draws him to her like no other. It makes no sense! Is she a trap carefully laid for him by his many enemies? Is she a cruel joke played upon him by the Gods? His Goddess? How can she be immune to his Curse? Could she possibly be his Light?



***This series is suitable for adult listeners (or readers) who enjoy historical to modern supernatural romances with sarcastic humor and steamy sex scenes filled with intrigue and mystery :)

[Savannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cyril and Linden are the perfect match for each other. I have laughed my butt off, I have melted into a big puddle on the floor, and I have most definitely swooned until near fainting while reading this book LOL!
What I love the most about this book, is that Renea has created a refreshing, paranormal world unlike any I have ever read. Our alpha-hero in this story is one big, bad, mysterious, God-like man with an assortment of abilities and a paranormal-race unlike anything you may have witnessed. I think you may wish to read the book yourself to discover just exactly who he is rather than hearing my spill the beans--oh trust me, the sex appeal of this man is worth it!
Our hero comes to a symphony where he meets our heroine, Linden, who is raising money--and this is where the suspense starts to take a hold on you! Linden is positive she knows this man. How could she not remember a face like that, his voice, everything about him that she fell in love with years ago; but he claims to have no recollection of their past though it feels familiar--and he absolutely has his suspicions in what role she plays in his life. He is eager to unravel the mystery and will do whatever it takes to find her place in his heart.
After a series of twists and turns and eluding many moments of danger, everything falls into place and it will be a beautiful, yet, bitter-sweet experience. Linden and Cyril's relationship together, is a certain and entertaining symphony, indeed.
I would love to tell you ladies to back off and leave Cyril for me, and me only LOL but this is seriously a book that I feel the need to share and recommend. HIGLY recommend for all you paranormal lovers out there. I wanna hear what you guys think about Cyril when you find out just who and what he is! I love it!! I'll be putting this up on the blog shortly!

[Vettech · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wild and crazy ride this book was for me. In a few short words...I loved it!! This is a difficult review to write, simply because there was so many things going on. I don't think I write very good reviews, but will try to do this wonderful story justice.

When Linden Hill is attending a fundraiser for the symphony and spots a man she saw die before her eyes ten years before...she can't believe it. At the tender age of 18 Linden fell in love with a handsome stranger. When he is gone her world is shattered.

Jump ahead ten yrs. the man she knew is different than she remembered, but then Linden is not the same quiet sheltered girl she once was. The feeling they once had for each other come to the surface. There is plenty of chemistry, sexual tension and enough angst you could cut it with a chainsaw!

A lesson learned from this book all the ladies can tell their men....be very careful not to piss off your lady love too many times. For you never know how she will retaliate & torture you later when you least suspect it!

For those of you who like humor, this story has that too. Linden is a real firecracker and gives Cyril a real run for his money. Renea Mason makes the reader really think while they get lost in this wonderful fantasy world....there's an air of mystery about this tale.

This is a true love story in the end. Both Cyril & Linden prepare to sacrifice themselves to save the other. The ultimate offering of love. I highly recommend this book to those who love a hot, steamy, erotic paranormal roller coaster ride!!

[SheLuvsGod · Rating 5 out of 5]

I listened to the audio for my book club and was given a free copy for an honest review.

Great beginning to a new series!!!

Let me begin my saying the narration was great. Maybe even the best I've heard with two narrators. I LOVED the growly sexy voice of Cyril. Micheal Levine and Erwin deWard are world class in my book. They narrated more than the words, the pants and breaths and signs made everything more intense.

Now the story was fresh and new. I've only read one other series that even came close. It was so well written that the romantic scenes (were they professed their love) weren't at all corny like in some books. They melted my heart. There were so many times that I wanted to stop and write down what was said so I'd remember it.

The characters were good as well. Seeing them develop was fun. I went from thinking Cyril was hot but an ass at that same time to loving him. I also lived Linden and Overton - (spelling sorry :)

With all of that said ... this book was Hot!!! But not in a trashy way. I sometimes feel uncomfortable with profanity and graphic sex scenes, but this book they were done very classy and they fit - it would not have been as enjoyable without them. Hell, my husband got lucky three nights in a row, lol.


Gotta go get the second book!!! I'm so happy to learn there's gonna be a third and forth installment.

[Jenny · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy hell I loved this book. I didn't even stop reading this book even while I was in class. My teacher was talking to me and I was so absorbed in the book I didn't realize it at first. The beginning starts off hot and doesn't even cool down until the end which was still warm. I have to admit even though I loved how hot Cyril was I wanted to kick him in the family jewels for his bullish behavior, but it was so much fun reading how Linden gets back at him. One of her ways at getting back at him was so funny and hot at the same time. I liked how strong Linden was. She may have been hurt but she did not let it break her and still stood her ground with Cyril, even while displaying some tears.
I hate to admit it, especially since I hate cliffhangers, I liked how the end was written. I like how despite the story not continuing as far as I wanted and I'd have to wait for the second book for more, I'm super impatient, the ending left you with hope for the couple. Although at the same time a wee bit peeved at how they blundered up so much that they got into the situation they're in.
*book provided by the Author through PNR NaUBA group Author/Reader Exchange*

[Sharon · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a hard book to review. Some elements I would rate at five stars, for sure. Other things were REALLY uneven. The concept was original and fresh, and Cyril is a great hero. I always love stories where the hero has loved his girl for years but has to wait for her to grow up. It reminds me a little of the Rhapsodic series by Laura Thalassa in that regard. Maybe I have Daddy issues, but we don’t need to examine that now. :)

The problem with the book is that the story is so original and fresh that the author has to take a lot of time explaining exactly how everything works with this “family”, and it gets a little tiresome after a while, not to mention confusing. I must have missed what Cyril’s “curse” is because I still am not quite sure.

This is the second series I’m reading by this same author, and I will say that dialogue is not her strong suit, but I’m fully willing to overlook this because she writes great love stories.

I’m hovering between a three and four stars, but I’m excited to read the next book. I’m going to round up to a four and remain hopeful that some of the kinks of this series are ironed out in the next installment!

[Nessie Strange · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'd definitely recommend this book to all paranormal romance fans! The characters are fantastic, the story is unique and the combination makes a very engaging read. The heroine, Linden is strong-willed and stubborn. I love her wry sense of humor and how she doesn't take any crap from anyone...especially the hero, Cyril. Cyril, of course, is the ultimate bad-ass supernatural alpha male. Their relationship is volatile at times, tender at others and the chemistry is ALWAYS smokin' hot. Ms. Mason has created a wonderful new mythology that steers us away from the atypical supernatural-- a.k.a. vampires and wolves--and makes for a much more interesting story. You will see some familiar traits from these creatures, but it is not in any way cliche. I don't want to give ANY of the story away, because you really need to read for yourself, but for the paranormal romance genre, this one is definitely a breath of fresh air.

[Marianne Willis · Rating 5 out of 5]

What can I say, 5 stars.

I absolutely loved this book. It was one of those stories that constantly stay on your mind. I was always so anxious to read another chapter. I became emotionally invested in these characters, and couldn't get enough.

First, we have Linden, a saucy lady who made me laugh at every turn. And Cyril...ah, Cyril, the sexiest man on earth. He is dangerous, cocky and even cunning. I loved every minute of their encounters and even nicknamed them Lindril :)

Rena Mason does an awesome job strapping her readers into the `Symphony of Light and Winter' rollercoaster and taking us on a wild ride of emotions. Some moments were so tender, I felt my heart clench, and other so hot, I forgot to breathe. I don't want to give away any spoilers, but if you're after a fantastic read full of heart-stopping moments, or just want something downright naughty...then look no further.

[Cait Jarrod · Rating 5 out of 5]

The originality of Symphony of Light and Winter is in a class of its own. Being a debut author didn’t stop Renea Mason from making the story come to life. From a complex hero to gorgeous heroine, they are feisty, prickly, and two of the most irresistible, intriguing characters I’ve read in a paranormal romance.

Every array of emotions will hit as you read the love story between two people, Cyril and Linden. From the chemistry building to the intense suspense, this book will have you flipping the pages and losing sleep. The writing and story line is that good.

The uniqueness of the plot, which I don’t want to go into details for fear of being a spoiler, grew with the added touch of music and art, hence the title.

I can’t wait for the second book. I’m ready for the journey to continue.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the kind of book that makes you frantically turn back to page one to ease the need you're left with at the last page. Then you scramble to the author's website for any news of a sequel.

I first chose it due to the beautiful cover and the title. Light and winter are such a tantalizing contrast. I didn't read the blurb until I bought it.

The contrasts remain constant through the novel. Nobody is what they seem and in spite of who they grow into it is so easy to recognize them as what they were on page one. I'm intimidated and overjoyed by the people I met and the world they live in.

Definitely, definitely going to follow Renea!

[Season Meyers · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was fantastic! Some of the reviews I read when trying to decide if I should purchase this book compared it to Fifty Shades of Grey. What a travesty that comparison is! Fifty Shades of Grey was just crap while this book was a refreshing storyline by an author whom I had never read before. She breathed new life into the paranormal genre that I think had previously been missing. If you are looking for a well written paranormal romance that will keep you on the edge of your seat, this is it! Read it, you'll thank me!

[Kjen · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 Stars~~~This was a unique and interesting read. I was compelled to continue reading even though it was out of my comfort zone at times. Translation: I didn't fully know what was going on. That is Mason's hook, actually. Her reveals come when they are needed in the story and not before. Linden and Cyril are a volatile couple, but it works for them. The ending was a convoluted mess due to a distinct lack of couple communication and each having the desire to sacrifice for the other. Translation: Clusterf*ck. Who knows how Linden is going to fix it? Stay tuned to the next book, I guess.

[Savannah Storm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly addicting! I read the reviews and they caught my attention by saying they couldn't put it down.So I accepted the challenge and lied to myself as I tried to put it down so I could go to sleep since I had to work the next day. needless to say I didn't put it down. I read all through the night and wee hours of the morning. Cyril , be still my heart you sexy arrogant beast, you can keep me up as long as you like!! I can't wait to read the next one !

[Nessa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book completely blew my mind away! From the very first page, I was consumed by the story and shocked by each new revelation, but trying to guess what was happening next. I'm looking forward to continuing the journey with Linden and her merry band of men (he he he) and seeing what adventures they'll continue to have.

I received an ARC for an honest review of this book.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was fantastic! I loved it! I'm new to the whole paranormal type romances. Some of the ones I read just didn't hold my attention. But Renea Mason had me from the very beginning of this book. I thought about it for days afterwards and only truly good reads cause me to do that!

[Robin Malone · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book I've ever read by Renea Mason. I won this book in a contest, but it won't sway my review whatsoever.

The Review:

Before I began reading, I wasn't really sure what to expect. The title threw me off a little bit as to what this book would hold within it. But the words "One woman. Seven men." hooked me like a horny little fish and the rest of the book reeled me in and mounted me to the wall. (Pun not intended...well...it wasn't at first.)

The book starts off with Linden making her rounds to prospective donors trying to raise funds to renovate a concert hall. She is approached by a man who introduces himself as Morgan Peters, but she vividly remembers him as Cyril Aristin. A man she met and became friends with 10 years prior when she was a teen, and who she ultimately ended up falling in love with, then watched bleed to death. When no body had been discovered, Linden had been told by Michael Green, one of the paramedics on the scene, that it had all been in her head. Now here Cyril is 10 yrs later, back from the dead. Was he a figment of her imagination again? Or was he really alive?

I shivered from a resurgence of the strange current that radiated through me earlier. Maybe Cyril wasn’t the cause. Maybe I was getting si—

He held me against the wall with such strength my feet no longer touched the ground. Supported by the crushing force of his body, the compression caused my breasts to escape an already bulging blouse, and mashed my nipples against the horrid paint. His chest rose and fell against my back. He spoke, not with the same American accent he tried to deceive me with earlier, but rather the tones of the British Isles mixed with something ancient and familiar. “Who are you?” His breath, hot against my ear, and a soft, rich voice contrasted with the violence of the leg wedged between my thighs.

He restrained my hands above my head in the steel grasp of his fist. I attempted to answer him, but couldn’t force enough air into my lungs. He growled. His chest rumbled.

The intense heat of his body was a dramatic contrast to the cold wall on my exposed skin. My nipples hardened to painful peaks. He brought his free hand to my throat, cradling it in warning. The next moment he spoke in low, punctuated notes. “Who…the…f**k…are…you?” The words reverberated, sustaining the menace.

I managed only a whimper, too shocked to form complete words. His grip loosened, but he did not release me. I swallowed hard. “Lin—”

“I know your name, Mrs. Green. Don’t take me for a fool. Now tell me why you have seen fit to steal from me?” He inhaled a sharp breath. “How dare you take what was not freely given. Do you have any idea what you have done…”

Mmm yummy! I guess he's alive and well. Question is, why doesn't he remember her? And what does he think she stole?

I need to know how you did it? Are you one of Myghal’s? Tell me!”

I had no doubt about his conviction. He was dead serious. I trembled. Wetness flowed freely from my eyes as anger consumed me. Like a woman possessed, I couldn’t stop myself. Sealing my fate, I rambled, “What about me, you bastard? How dare you demand answers? It’s been ten years. I watched you die! I would have given my life to save you.” I panted. “What are you?”

He shifted and his grip softened.

My body shook. I sucked air through my teeth. “They found me covered in blood, with no explanation. The police thought I staged everything for attention, assuming it was a suicide attempt, because all evidence, including your body, disappeared. The only thing they saw was my sliced wrist. If not for Michael, they would have taken me to the psych ward.”

He showed no emotion, but his attention remained focused on my lips.

“The coma lasted seven months. Not one doctor could explain it. A psychotic break, they called it.” Tears cascaded over my cheeks and landed on the tops of my breasts. “Michael tried to convince me you didn’t exist. I suffered your death in silence. No one believed me, but in my soul, I knew you were real.” A sob caught in my throat, but I choked it back. My body stiffened, steeling my resolve. “So, f**k you! Go ahead. Kill me. I don’t care. Because what you did to me makes dying the lesser of two evils. You cursed me.

As the story goes on, surprises unfold, memories are revealed and secrets are discovered.

This entire story was literally like Christmas day for me. Why? Because it was one of the most pleasant, wonderful surprises I've opened in a very long time and I was jumping around like a kid at this amazing discovery.

I am a huge and I mean HUGE fan of Alexandra Ivy's Guardians of Eternity Series, this has that same essence, but it's very much its own wonderful concoction. It's different, it's unique, it's completely and utterly special and I am in love. As soon as I finished this book(which by the way I didn't put down from start to finish) I immediately went to amazon.com, fully prepared to lay down my hard-earned money for more books in this series. Instead I found that Renea Mason has yet to publish more...but GUESS WHAT!! She's in the process of writing book number 2 in the series!! Haaaalllelujiiiaaah!!!

I think, hope, feel this series has serious potential to be right up there with my favorite authors of all time. She's taken the paranormal genre and made it her own. It's paranormal, mixed with erotica, action, suspense, comedy and everything in between. It is seriously one of a kind.

If you love Alexandra Ivy, Lara Adrian, Sherrilyn Kenyon, Lynsay Sands, Laura Wright, and all those other amazing paranormal authors that I absolutely love with all my heart...then you will LOVE Renea Mason and her brand new "Symphony of Light" Series.

I honestly tear up when I think of the potential this bright star has and I'm so excited to sit back, watch her light up the sky and set the paranormal world on fire. That is why I'm making "Symphony of Light and Winter" by Renea Mason my WHAT'S HOT! book of the week!!

~Robin(bookreadsandreviews.com)

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yes, I really stayed up until 4:30 am to finish reading this book! It is so different from most of what I've read in this genre. And despite being incredibly sad toward the very end, the last page or two absolutely cracked me up! I can't wait until the next book comes out! I'll post the rest of my review after I get it done for my blog. :)

UPDATED: From my blog

I'm not going to lie...when I first read the description of this book, I was a little hesitant about whether or not I was going to like it. But, once I started, I couldn't stop! I literally stayed up until 4:30 AM to finish it!

I know, I know...you're thinking, "SEVEN MEN?!" But seriously, it's not whacked out or anything. Once you come to understand why these men are all bound together, and devoted to Linden, it really is actually endearing, not creepy. I promise. :)

When we first meet Linden, she may be scantily clad, but it's all in the name of raising funds for the orchestra hall. While securing a donation from the man she is dressed to please, a dead man from her past walks through the entrance into the lounge. He is also a potential donor, and despite the fact that Linden is positive she knows exactly who this man is, he introduces himself with a different name, and a slightly different accent. He also seems to know that she was married, which she hasn't told anyone. But he leaves politely enough. That is, until she heads to the ladies room to settle her nerves...

Cyril is angry. VERY angry. He can't believe what Linden has done, and on top of that, he can't remember it, so he hasn't a clue how she did it. What is it she did, you ask? Well, you'll have to read to find out. But let's just say, in Cyril's world, what Linden did is a HUGE deal. But, when he accosts her in the ladies room, he doesn't expect the few answers he gets out of Linden. And of course, the sexual nature of this restroom meeting serves to confuse them both.

One of the things I love about this book is their shared passion for music. Both Cyril and Linden play/played piano, and Cyril taught Linden an even better appreciation for classical music when she was younger. Linden's appreciation for music is shown in her job, and even after being 'dead' for ten years, Cyril is still a phenomenal pianist, using the music to draw Linden in one night.

This book will keep you on your toes, and guessing until the very end...and past the end, making you NEED to know what happens next! I was very, very sad leading up to the very end of the novel, but when I got to the last page or two, I was cracking up! I promise, this book will not disappoint!

The characters in this book, and their relationships with one another, are so different from anything else I've read. They are not only interesting, but they make the reader care about them, and what happens to them. They care about each other for unexpected, and what seem like forced, reasons, and yet their relationships still feel so honest and real.

A couple of quotes to give you a taste:

"I had been cold and alone inside for so long. He was life, sex, and death in one dangerous package."
"'That's it. You are much more relaxed. Music is energy, Linden. With energy, you must first make yourself an attractive conduit. Energy does not like resistance. The less resistant you are, the more it can take hold, become stronger--make you stronger. Allow it to embody you, become one with you, and embrace its possession."
"You make me capable of all things. I not only have the capacity to love, I am consumed by it...Don't you understand, it's the intense love I have for you that makes me such an idiot."

So, go forth and buy this book! This is a satisfying read for romance readers, but especially for paranormal readers! You won't be sorry!

[preppea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my. What an amazingly different book. First of all, the initial interactions Linden had with Cyril were so hot I had actual dreams about them. *Fanning self* Talk about making my imagination run wild. Cyril was this awful caveman of a man at the beginning but the pull between him and Linden was undeniable and beyond explanation.

Cyril doesn’t remember Linden at all but he can sense his blood in her and that tells him she has somehow stolen from him in the past. He’d kill her for the betrayal if only he weren’t so drawn to her. The reader is left in the dark as much as Cyril—Linden remembers their first encounters vividly but we only get small pieces of information from her. We know that they shared something special, tender, and real and the rest is a mystery that Linden is not willing to share with the new and angrier Cyril. This is where the prequel novella comes in handy because in the novella Cyril was very clear that he’d been drawn to one particular woman all his life and one of his biggest fears was one day being reborn and not remembering her after his death. We find out that he is a paranormal being that is more than human and that he lives many lives, returning after each death with some but not all of his memories. He explains that after each death he doesn’t choose what memories he comes back with and which ones are lost forever.

Finally, gloriously, Cyril tricks Linden into a vulnerable situation and he is able to read her mind and explore her memories. The reader, along with Cyril, finally gets to uncover the history they shared. Now we get to experience not only the sexy caveman that is the current Cyril but the amazing, gentle Cyril that Linden knew and fell in love with ten years ago.

Of course, this is a paranormal story and as such has a villain trying to murder the powerful Cyril and thus begins a very action-filled plot that must be continued in book #2. I did have a few bones to pick with some of the action scenes near the end of the story but I so loved the interaction between Cyril and Linden that I will be first in line to see where Ms. Mason takes them in the next book in the series. I read SYMPHONY OF LIGHT AND WINTER quickly and ravenously and found it to be all-consuming and absolutely delicious.

**Copy provided by the author/publisher for an honest review.

**Reviewed by preppea on I ♥ Bookie Nookie Reviews.

[Anne Lange · Rating 5 out of 5]

Symphony of Light and Winter is not your normal paranormal. It is such an utterly fantastic blend of non-vampire, non-angel, non-demon, non-god stuff that it truly drew me in from page one and kept me reading (to the exclusion of everything else).

I don’t know what it was exactly—perhaps it was because all of those things were hinted at, providing glimpses of each, but there wasn’t an overwhelming focus on any given one. Perhaps it was the easy banter back and forth between Linden (the heroine, and she truly is) and Cyril (the hero who will do anything, and I mean the ultimate, to save the woman he loves). Maybe that’s what did it for me. Maybe it was the sexy best friend, or the sexual hunger coming off the entire crew in waves, as well as the deep emotional and sense of familial ties that connected all of them, making them a cohesive unit regardless of whatever else was going on in their lives. Even when Linden was cursing Cyril I could feel the love boiling underneath her frustration and anger. I could sense his pain and guilt.

Quite simply, it was wonderfully written. I will not give away any spoilers. I just highly recommend you read this story. You will fall for these characters in all ways imaginable. I laughed, I cried, I got angry, I felt compassion. The story is told in Linden’s POV only, but Ms. Mason still managed to convey Cyril’s thoughts and emotions through his words, his actions and his non-actions.

I can honestly say I am most eagerly awaiting the next installment of this series. Please tell me we won’t have to wait too long!

I am a fan.

[Paulina Woods · Rating 5 out of 5]

You know those times when you are sitting in a crowded area and start talking to your book? Everyone turns to look at you like your crazy and you hardly notice just kinda say, "Oh sorry this is crazy," and go back to reading? That was me during most of this book. How I wanted to scream and pull Cyril by the hair toss him into a dark room and tell him to work out his feelings or else. Sexy, arrogant and just a tad dark…no wonder Linden could hardly keep her panties on.

Than there was Linden who had no control over the emotional roller coaster she was on. She was forced to do a lot of things she didn't want to and had to fight for the man she loved. I liked how she took back control and ran with it. Her humor throughout her ordeal made me want kiss her. She may have cried but she dried her cheeks and faced the situation head on.

I did find myself getting mad because Cyril wouldn't answer Linden questions, which meant my questions weren't getting answered. But the way she finally got her answers, now that's something I may have to use one day.

The way the book is written is perfect because before you learn the back story you meet the main characters, fall in love and become invested. I have not seen many authors able to smoothly move from end to beginning to middle and back to the end without missing a beat.

This is a new twist on supernatural beings and must be read to be appreciated.