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The Aloysius Tales #3
Cataclysmic Shift
Second Edition
Aloysius, the magical black cat and powerful witch’s familiar, isn’t afraid to go into battle to protect his master, but the outcome of the fight turns his feline world upside down. A direct hit of magic steals not only his memories and power, but even the body he’s lived in for several centuries. When he wakes up naked on the floor of a veterinarian’s office, it isn’t as the cat Aloysius, but as the sixteenth-century French gentleman Alain Bellarose. And when Alain sees sexy and enigmatic veterinarian Luke Elliott, he decides he’ll make the best of his time as a human.
Luke is a man with secrets who generally prefers the company of animals—though the flamboyant boy who washes his face with the side of his hand and tries to lick his own privates might prove an exception.
Meanwhile, Witch Master Killian Barth and his secret weapon, Sammy, struggle without Aloysius’s power to draw on. Two evil females are circling, and seeing the coven’s weakness, they’re about to move in for the kill. When Alain’s memories return, he’s faced with the ultimate dilemma: protect his community or stay with the man he loves.
First Edition published by Loose Id, 2013.
Aloysius, the magical black cat and powerful witch’s familiar, isn’t afraid to go into battle to protect his master, but the outcome of the fight turns his feline world upside down. A direct hit of magic steals not only his memories and power, but even the body he’s lived in for several centuries. When he wakes up naked on the floor of a veterinarian’s office, it isn’t as the cat Aloysius, but as the sixteenth-century French gentleman Alain Bellarose. And when Alain sees sexy and enigmatic veterinarian Luke Elliott, he decides he’ll make the best of his time as a human.
Luke is a man with secrets who generally prefers the company of animals—though the flamboyant boy who washes his face with the side of his hand and tries to lick his own privates might prove an exception.
Meanwhile, Witch Master Killian Barth and his secret weapon, Sammy, struggle without Aloysius’s power to draw on. Two evil females are circling, and seeing the coven’s weakness, they’re about to move in for the kill. When Alain’s memories return, he’s faced with the ultimate dilemma: protect his community or stay with the man he loves.
First Edition published by Loose Id, 2013.
200 pages, Paperback
First published July 23, 2013
43 people are currently reading
299 people want to read
About the author
Tara Lain
97 books1,387 followersTara Lain believes in happy ever afters - and magic. Same thing. In fact, she says, she doesn't believe, she knows. Tara shares this passion in her stories that star her unique, charismatic heroes and adventurous heroines. Quarterbacks and cops, werewolves and witches, blue collar or billionaires, Tara's characters, readers say, love deeply, resolve seemingly insurmountable differences, and ultimately live their lives authentically. After many years living in southern California, Tara, her soulmate honey and her soulmate dog decided they wanted less cars and more trees, prompting a move to Ashland, Oregon where Tara's creating new stories and loving living in a small town with big culture. Likely a Gryffindor or maybe a Ravensclaw but possessed of Parseltongue, Tara loves animals of all kinds, diversity, open minds, coconut crunch ice cream from Zoeys, and her readers.
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July 16, 2013Aloysius is back.......
July 26, 2013
Oh dear, it's going to be hard to review this and not give away any of the delicious details..oh well, I'll start with something really easy, I love the cover, I actually think this whole series has great covers.
I read the first book in this series Spell Cat but haven't gotten to Brush with Catastrophe ( the second in the series) yet, and although I'm sure I might have missed a little bit of backstory because of that, it was in no way a problem in reading and following this third one even without having read that one.
As the blurb mentions powerful witch familiar Aloysius is now a human.
An insanely attractive, a little naive and suffering from amnesia, good with animals and naked young man.
Good thing he lands in Luke's veterinary clinic, Luke takes him in, clothes him ( a shame really that) gives him a job with the animals at the clinic and teaches him the 'gay'.
Luke has a history he isn't proud of and has been trying to keep secret, but the past has a habit of catching up with you.
All the while Alain ( as Al now calls himself) has flashes of memories that don't make sense and the compulsion to do certain things, that make even less sense.
I loved watching Alain navigate his way as a human, he loves salmon and champagne, of course, but everything else is a learning by doing kind of thing. As usual he charms everyone and that includes me.
He charms all of his witches into becoming pet owners and he himself is adopted by an adorable little kitten, Amelia.
As I started this story I wondered what he would be like as a human, I loved Aloysius the cat, but thought he might be just a bit haughty as a human, but Alain isn't like that at all, although he is still as clever as always and still has some of his more feline traits and habits, even as a man.
Meanwhile not only is Luke's past catching up with him, Killian, Blaine, Sammy, Ryder, Lavender and Jimmy have to be on the lookout as some power hungry witches are after the coven and Al.
Fighting off this threat is a tad more challenging without the witch familiar to help them, but again that internal calling has the human Alain trying to help anyway.
The love story between these two very different and unlikely lovers was hot and cute, Luke takes to teaching Alain the 'gay' very well and Alain is an excellent student in all things sexy.
I have to say, I actually sniffled a little at one point, Luke doesn't take to everything well and of course Alain/Aloysius has difficult choices to make.
This story really brings home the friendship and love between Aloysius and his witches, deciding to do what is best for Al and wanting his happiness over their own.
This is a must read for all Aloysius fans who want to see him in a whole new light.
September 4, 2021
There is a feeling of wrongness when I read these books.
First of all, words, language.
- Little things like "shitfire", "sash", "jumpseat". Lots of "male/female", referencing people in general and friends and acquaintances in particular. Is it Manhattan slang? I don't think so.
Males (31 times), females (38 times) and shitfire (35 times) in 200 pages. Ever heard of thesaurus or - oh, I don't know - just your plain old man/boy, woman/lady, shit/crap? That alone calls for stars off.
- Jimmy from the first book, this bright man and a powerful witch, talked and acted like a moron.
Bottom line, in this story people's speech and their actions do not always correlate with their age, occupation or station.
Powers.
- The most powerful witch on Earth is continuously having fights with some vague, backwater European coven and is barely staying ahead, even less so without his familiar. Whaaat?
- Some small-change evil coven from Prague is reaching out all the way across the ocean to steal powers from a small witch community in Manhattan. Why? What's the importance? There is nothing closer? The closest are more powerful or less interesting to them? Explain to me, cause I want to know! They have money to travel but not to perform an organized and well planned takeover? Well, that's a waste of travel money.
Angst.
Spoilers below!
- 4 (presumably) powerful European witches are sneaking and snooping around campus grounds like cub scouts on Kool Aid in order to take over the world and it's plain weird, like something out of a bad low budget movie. But at least we know for sure that since they have no real plan, no real reconnaissance, no logical approach and no contingency plan, they are bound to fail and miserably so. Takes all the angst out of THAT affair.
- Police can't find evidence and/or witnesses to put a criminal away after arresting him amid said evidence and more than a dozen witnesses in his own apartment? Ugh! *throws hands in the air*
-----------
This is what this book feels like to me: Do you remember "All Of Me" movie and the scene were Steve Martin's Roger Cobb was possessed by Lily Tomlins's character in court? Tara Lain is trying to make her characters talk and walk, but their voices don't fit and their actions are out of control.
If you have not seen "All of Me", here is the trailer:
https://www.imdb.com/video/vi29148267...
First of all, words, language.
- Little things like "shitfire", "sash", "jumpseat". Lots of "male/female", referencing people in general and friends and acquaintances in particular. Is it Manhattan slang? I don't think so.
Males (31 times), females (38 times) and shitfire (35 times) in 200 pages. Ever heard of thesaurus or - oh, I don't know - just your plain old man/boy, woman/lady, shit/crap? That alone calls for stars off.
- Jimmy from the first book, this bright man and a powerful witch, talked and acted like a moron.
Bottom line, in this story people's speech and their actions do not always correlate with their age, occupation or station.
Powers.
- The most powerful witch on Earth is continuously having fights with some vague, backwater European coven and is barely staying ahead, even less so without his familiar. Whaaat?
- Some small-change evil coven from Prague is reaching out all the way across the ocean to steal powers from a small witch community in Manhattan. Why? What's the importance? There is nothing closer? The closest are more powerful or less interesting to them? Explain to me, cause I want to know! They have money to travel but not to perform an organized and well planned takeover? Well, that's a waste of travel money.
Angst.
Spoilers below!
- 4 (presumably) powerful European witches are sneaking and snooping around campus grounds like cub scouts on Kool Aid in order to take over the world and it's plain weird, like something out of a bad low budget movie. But at least we know for sure that since they have no real plan, no real reconnaissance, no logical approach and no contingency plan, they are bound to fail and miserably so. Takes all the angst out of THAT affair.
- Police can't find evidence and/or witnesses to put a criminal away after arresting him amid said evidence and more than a dozen witnesses in his own apartment? Ugh! *throws hands in the air*
-----------
This is what this book feels like to me: Do you remember "All Of Me" movie and the scene were Steve Martin's Roger Cobb was possessed by Lily Tomlins's character in court? Tara Lain is trying to make her characters talk and walk, but their voices don't fit and their actions are out of control.
If you have not seen "All of Me", here is the trailer:
https://www.imdb.com/video/vi29148267...
September 13, 2017
Full review available at: https://optimumm.blog/2017/09/13/revi...
I didn’t think this series could get any better after reading Brush with Catastrophe, but I was wrong. I loved Cataclysmic Shift by Tara Lain. It’s the third book in the Aloysius Tales series. In this book, Aloysius finally gets a book that focuses on him. And boy does the magical black cat and powerful witches’ familiar have a rocky road ahead.
Aloysius isn’t afraid to go into battle to protect his master and his master’s friends like Sammy. He acts as a conduit for both Killian and Sammy to draw magic from. However, in the midst of a battle with two European witches, a direct hit of magic steals not only his memories and power but even the body he’s lived in for several centuries. Fearing for their unconscious cat’s life, they take him to a vet that Killian’s human mate, Blaine, knows through his men’s group. Luke’s there to reassure them that although he’s unconscious, he seems to be in good health. However, when he goes back into the room to do some test, he finds that Aloysius has disappeared. Luke promises to keep his eye out for him, and Killian and Blaine head for home believing that Aloysius had already headed home when he woke up.
So when Luke finds a gorgeous naked man playing with all of the boarding animals at his veterinary practice the next morning, never once does it occur to him that this could be Aloysius. And why would it, Luke is human and doesn’t know anything about the paranormal community. Even Aloysius doesn’t remember who he is. He only has vague memories of being a sixteenth-century French gentleman named Alain Bellarose.
But Alain has no memory of his time spent as a magical cat or a witch’s familiar. All he knows is that he can talk to animals and that the vet that found him and has given him a place to stay is hot and somebody that he would like to make time with. But he has instances where he feels like he’s being pulled by a magical force to protect somebody. Now, if he could just figure out who he’s supposed to protect. When Alain gets his memories back, he’s faced with the biggest dilemma of his life—protect his community or stay with the man he loves.
I loved Alain. His personality and antics had me laughing on more than one occasion. Especially when he gave himself a cat bath and tried and was successful at licking his own genitals. And I loved how protective he is of Luke. I also loved Luke. He has a past full of secrets and an ex-boss that refuses to let him go. I can’t wait for the next book in the series to come out. If you loved the other books in this series, then you have to read this book. You won’t be disappointed. I know that I wasn’t.
Thank you, Tara Lain, for another fabulous book.
***The ARC was provided by Dreamspinner Press. My review is an honest opinion of the book***
I didn’t think this series could get any better after reading Brush with Catastrophe, but I was wrong. I loved Cataclysmic Shift by Tara Lain. It’s the third book in the Aloysius Tales series. In this book, Aloysius finally gets a book that focuses on him. And boy does the magical black cat and powerful witches’ familiar have a rocky road ahead.
Aloysius isn’t afraid to go into battle to protect his master and his master’s friends like Sammy. He acts as a conduit for both Killian and Sammy to draw magic from. However, in the midst of a battle with two European witches, a direct hit of magic steals not only his memories and power but even the body he’s lived in for several centuries. Fearing for their unconscious cat’s life, they take him to a vet that Killian’s human mate, Blaine, knows through his men’s group. Luke’s there to reassure them that although he’s unconscious, he seems to be in good health. However, when he goes back into the room to do some test, he finds that Aloysius has disappeared. Luke promises to keep his eye out for him, and Killian and Blaine head for home believing that Aloysius had already headed home when he woke up.
So when Luke finds a gorgeous naked man playing with all of the boarding animals at his veterinary practice the next morning, never once does it occur to him that this could be Aloysius. And why would it, Luke is human and doesn’t know anything about the paranormal community. Even Aloysius doesn’t remember who he is. He only has vague memories of being a sixteenth-century French gentleman named Alain Bellarose.
But Alain has no memory of his time spent as a magical cat or a witch’s familiar. All he knows is that he can talk to animals and that the vet that found him and has given him a place to stay is hot and somebody that he would like to make time with. But he has instances where he feels like he’s being pulled by a magical force to protect somebody. Now, if he could just figure out who he’s supposed to protect. When Alain gets his memories back, he’s faced with the biggest dilemma of his life—protect his community or stay with the man he loves.
I loved Alain. His personality and antics had me laughing on more than one occasion. Especially when he gave himself a cat bath and tried and was successful at licking his own genitals. And I loved how protective he is of Luke. I also loved Luke. He has a past full of secrets and an ex-boss that refuses to let him go. I can’t wait for the next book in the series to come out. If you loved the other books in this series, then you have to read this book. You won’t be disappointed. I know that I wasn’t.
Thank you, Tara Lain, for another fabulous book.
***The ARC was provided by Dreamspinner Press. My review is an honest opinion of the book***
October 14, 2025
Amazing finale! All the lightning strikes and magical kitty cats I could stand! I am absolutely not complaining about the gorgeous guys either. There is tons of heat, fun, and fur in this one. I loved seeing Al get his HEA while not losing his connection to his people. Tara Lain really outdid herself with this one!
September 13, 2017
So, after reading the first two books in Tara Lain’s Aloysius Tales series, I was really curious as to whose story would be next. Lo and behold, the MC in Cataclysmic Shift was none other than Aloysius himself! After reading the blurb, I was highly intrigued with how the book would play out. And now after reading the book, I can honestly say that it is my favorite in the series so far.
Aloysius was actually human once upon a long, long time ago before being changed into a cat. Okay, so he wasn’t changed into an ordinary cat, but an extremely powerful witches familiar. He is highly intelligent, has phenomenal intuition, and takes Killian Barth’s already magnificent power and amplifies it ten-fold. That’s how extraordinary Aloysius is. Impressive, right? Well, he is also quite protective of Killian and his husband Blaine. Which is how Aloysius got into a rather precarious and life altering pickle. Because, whilst in the middle of an intense battle between a couple of witches and Killian, Blaine drops by and ends up being the target for the attacking witches. In order to save Blaine, Aloysius jumps in front of him and blocks a rather strong magical attack, taking it onto himself and rendering the feline unconscious. And, not knowing what else to do, Blaine suggests they bring Aloysius to a veterinarian he knows.
Luke Elliott gets the shock of a lifetime when he not only loses a patient (aka Aloysius) but the next morning he walks into the kennel attached to his clinic to find a naked (very well endowed) man in the room. Turns out that the man has amnesia and can only vaguely remember his name of Alain Bellarose. As Alain has no memory, no clothes, and nowhere to go, Luke offers him a job in the vet clinic and the spare room at home. As time goes by, Killian and Blaine begin to suspect that Alain is actually Aloysius in human form, but also see the growing feelings between the familiar-turned-human and Luke. Which puts them in quite the conundrum since Killian needs Aloysius to once and for all defeat the evil witches that have been attacking him. But that would mean ripping him away from Luke and returning him to cat form.
Only Alain can make the decision on whether to lose the love of his life and return to being a cat, or keep Luke and abandon Killian in his time of need, ignoring his extreme need to protect the witch.
I happily and greedily read Cataclysmic shift in one sitting, and loved every moment of it. It was everything I could have asked for, and even more. As with every book by Tara Lain, she infuses this book with her unique style and wicked sense of humor. I yelled at the book, I sniffled a bit, and I also laughed myself silly at some parts. If you are a fan of Tara Lain, you totally know what I’m talking about, am I right? And, as with all of Tara’s books, Cataclysmic Shift can be read as a standalone, but you will definitely enjoy it much more if you read the books in order. Trust me, it’s no hardship to read each book in the Aloysius Tales series. Actually, in my opinion, it’s not a hardship at all to read any of her series. Do make sure to treat yourself and get Cataclysmic Shift. It is a great book, and I thoroughly enjoyed it!
Aloysius was actually human once upon a long, long time ago before being changed into a cat. Okay, so he wasn’t changed into an ordinary cat, but an extremely powerful witches familiar. He is highly intelligent, has phenomenal intuition, and takes Killian Barth’s already magnificent power and amplifies it ten-fold. That’s how extraordinary Aloysius is. Impressive, right? Well, he is also quite protective of Killian and his husband Blaine. Which is how Aloysius got into a rather precarious and life altering pickle. Because, whilst in the middle of an intense battle between a couple of witches and Killian, Blaine drops by and ends up being the target for the attacking witches. In order to save Blaine, Aloysius jumps in front of him and blocks a rather strong magical attack, taking it onto himself and rendering the feline unconscious. And, not knowing what else to do, Blaine suggests they bring Aloysius to a veterinarian he knows.
Luke Elliott gets the shock of a lifetime when he not only loses a patient (aka Aloysius) but the next morning he walks into the kennel attached to his clinic to find a naked (very well endowed) man in the room. Turns out that the man has amnesia and can only vaguely remember his name of Alain Bellarose. As Alain has no memory, no clothes, and nowhere to go, Luke offers him a job in the vet clinic and the spare room at home. As time goes by, Killian and Blaine begin to suspect that Alain is actually Aloysius in human form, but also see the growing feelings between the familiar-turned-human and Luke. Which puts them in quite the conundrum since Killian needs Aloysius to once and for all defeat the evil witches that have been attacking him. But that would mean ripping him away from Luke and returning him to cat form.
Only Alain can make the decision on whether to lose the love of his life and return to being a cat, or keep Luke and abandon Killian in his time of need, ignoring his extreme need to protect the witch.
I happily and greedily read Cataclysmic shift in one sitting, and loved every moment of it. It was everything I could have asked for, and even more. As with every book by Tara Lain, she infuses this book with her unique style and wicked sense of humor. I yelled at the book, I sniffled a bit, and I also laughed myself silly at some parts. If you are a fan of Tara Lain, you totally know what I’m talking about, am I right? And, as with all of Tara’s books, Cataclysmic Shift can be read as a standalone, but you will definitely enjoy it much more if you read the books in order. Trust me, it’s no hardship to read each book in the Aloysius Tales series. Actually, in my opinion, it’s not a hardship at all to read any of her series. Do make sure to treat yourself and get Cataclysmic Shift. It is a great book, and I thoroughly enjoyed it!
July 28, 2013
4 1/2 Hearts
Review written for MM Good Book Reviews
This story is part of a series and must be read in order. Aloysius is a powerful witch’s familiar but when he saves Blaine and Killian from a witch’s attack he loses everything - his power, his memory and his cat form – he wakes up human surround by cats and dogs with a vague memory of his name, Alain, and not much else. Luckily for Alain he is in the hands of attractive vet Luke who helps him out with clothes, a place to stay and a job. Luke is shocked when he comes across a naked man in his vet clinic but the innocence in the man’s eyes has him helping him out, but Luke is hiding from his past which could bring down all he has built and Alain nearly gets dragged into danger. Killian’s power is greatly depleted with the loss of Aloysius, with evil witches determined to take over the coven Killian needs Aloysius now more than ever but with Aloysius stuck in human form the prospects look dire.
Ah damn what a twisted tale this series has become, with the European covens determined to rule and a nasty man from Luke’s past, we are also treated to a dilemma when Aloysius/Alain regains his memories. Luke is a great character who hides from his shady past, it took him years to get where he is as a vet and he has no intentions of ever revisiting his past. When Luke meets Alain he is bewitched by his beauty but he resists the pull of attraction for as long as he can, especially as Alain has no real memories of his own. Alain is drawn to Luke and can be quite persuasive and although he is enjoying his new life to the fullest, he knows that he has forgotten something important. Bring in Killian, Blaine, Sammy and Ryder as they try to protect their coven and discover how they can get Aloysius back but then a dilemma happens when Alain falls in love with Luke, how can they ask him to give up his love to give them back their power?
I loved this story as the threads were drawn together, weaving a tale that pulls us in different directions as we want Alain and Luke to get their happily ever after, but we also want Killian and the coven to win against the attacks. Luke is unaware of magic so his part in the story is of a very human aspect that Alain also gets dragged into, their relationship is pretty incredible and Aloysius as human is both sweet and funny and they make a delightful couple. We then have the magical aspect with Killian and Sammy being affected by the loss of Aloysius and being attacked by witch’s wanting power for themselves. This was beautifully done and you get pulled in from the very first page, we see their plight as Aloysius/Alain is torn in different directions and Luke’s heartbreak and devastation upon learning the truth. There are some very amusing scenes as Alain still has some very cat like traits.
I recommend this to those that love magical dilemma’s, falling in love, danger from both human and magical attacks, a great story and a brilliant surprising ending.
Review written for MM Good Book Reviews
This story is part of a series and must be read in order. Aloysius is a powerful witch’s familiar but when he saves Blaine and Killian from a witch’s attack he loses everything - his power, his memory and his cat form – he wakes up human surround by cats and dogs with a vague memory of his name, Alain, and not much else. Luckily for Alain he is in the hands of attractive vet Luke who helps him out with clothes, a place to stay and a job. Luke is shocked when he comes across a naked man in his vet clinic but the innocence in the man’s eyes has him helping him out, but Luke is hiding from his past which could bring down all he has built and Alain nearly gets dragged into danger. Killian’s power is greatly depleted with the loss of Aloysius, with evil witches determined to take over the coven Killian needs Aloysius now more than ever but with Aloysius stuck in human form the prospects look dire.
Ah damn what a twisted tale this series has become, with the European covens determined to rule and a nasty man from Luke’s past, we are also treated to a dilemma when Aloysius/Alain regains his memories. Luke is a great character who hides from his shady past, it took him years to get where he is as a vet and he has no intentions of ever revisiting his past. When Luke meets Alain he is bewitched by his beauty but he resists the pull of attraction for as long as he can, especially as Alain has no real memories of his own. Alain is drawn to Luke and can be quite persuasive and although he is enjoying his new life to the fullest, he knows that he has forgotten something important. Bring in Killian, Blaine, Sammy and Ryder as they try to protect their coven and discover how they can get Aloysius back but then a dilemma happens when Alain falls in love with Luke, how can they ask him to give up his love to give them back their power?
I loved this story as the threads were drawn together, weaving a tale that pulls us in different directions as we want Alain and Luke to get their happily ever after, but we also want Killian and the coven to win against the attacks. Luke is unaware of magic so his part in the story is of a very human aspect that Alain also gets dragged into, their relationship is pretty incredible and Aloysius as human is both sweet and funny and they make a delightful couple. We then have the magical aspect with Killian and Sammy being affected by the loss of Aloysius and being attacked by witch’s wanting power for themselves. This was beautifully done and you get pulled in from the very first page, we see their plight as Aloysius/Alain is torn in different directions and Luke’s heartbreak and devastation upon learning the truth. There are some very amusing scenes as Alain still has some very cat like traits.
I recommend this to those that love magical dilemma’s, falling in love, danger from both human and magical attacks, a great story and a brilliant surprising ending.
July 28, 2013
Loved this book and hope it's not the last in the series although the way it ended suggests it might be as a major problem that has been an on-going plot point appears to have been resolved in this book.
I loved Aloysius getting his HEA in this and learning how he came to be a familiar. Loved his catisms in human form! He made me smile as Alain. My heart broke when the others decided they had to make him human permanently so he could be with the guy he loved but they were all going to miss Aloysius so much and being without him was going to reduce their power and make them vunerable.
I love how it worked out for them in the end and I think the coven has gained rather then lost with Aloysius now predominantly in human form cause they all got a little surprise with him at the end. I just loved the sweetness and innocence of Alain and how he accepted Luke completely. I loved Luke's character as well and wish he hadn't had to suffer a past that haunted him so badly and put his life at risk. I was glad that things worked out so well for him in the end as well! I love the emotions in the book and how much the characters look out for each other! I hope there will be more in the series!
I loved Aloysius getting his HEA in this and learning how he came to be a familiar. Loved his catisms in human form! He made me smile as Alain. My heart broke when the others decided they had to make him human permanently so he could be with the guy he loved but they were all going to miss Aloysius so much and being without him was going to reduce their power and make them vunerable.
I love how it worked out for them in the end and I think the coven has gained rather then lost with Aloysius now predominantly in human form cause they all got a little surprise with him at the end. I just loved the sweetness and innocence of Alain and how he accepted Luke completely. I loved Luke's character as well and wish he hadn't had to suffer a past that haunted him so badly and put his life at risk. I was glad that things worked out so well for him in the end as well! I love the emotions in the book and how much the characters look out for each other! I hope there will be more in the series!
September 11, 2015
OK I knew going in that I would need to skim skip and generally ignore a lot in this one. But I still felt the need to finish this series.
Like with the others this one had a good strong story that was let down for me by the simple ease of writing style. Things just happened too easily for my taste. For example
Still it was enjoyable for the most part.
Like with the others this one had a good strong story that was let down for me by the simple ease of writing style. Things just happened too easily for my taste. For example
Still it was enjoyable for the most part.
September 14, 2013
3.5 Stars - Please check out Mandy's excellent review for more details. Thanks, Mandy!
A couple of thoughts - It took me a bit to get into the story. It felt like it was all over the place with all the characters from the previous two books making more than a brief appearance, several different POV's and two story lines thrown in the mix. It also tiptoed the line but fortunately didn't cross it. Eventually it all came together to the point where I found myself on the edge of my seat, cried more than I care to admit and ended up enjoying Aloysius/Alain and Luke's story very much.
A couple of thoughts - It took me a bit to get into the story. It felt like it was all over the place with all the characters from the previous two books making more than a brief appearance, several different POV's and two story lines thrown in the mix. It also tiptoed the line but fortunately didn't cross it. Eventually it all came together to the point where I found myself on the edge of my seat, cried more than I care to admit and ended up enjoying Aloysius/Alain and Luke's story very much.
Want to read
August 1, 2013Blurb extract:
....the flamboyant boy who washes his face with the side of his hand and tries to lick his own privates!
This is going to be much much fun :P
Want to read
July 23, 2013Goddamn, I love the covers in this series! I really need to read them asap!
July 24, 2020
Cataclysmic Shift gives us the tale of Aloysius. Aloysius is the familiar of the most powerful male witch in generations. He has bailed our heroes out time and time again. All he has asked for in return is for some salmon and all the adoration he was due. In this story Aloysius is returned to his human form and that causes all kinds of issues. I’ll admit I loved Alain but he wasn’t what I pictured a human Aloysius to act like. After 500 years as a cat I expected more entitlement and capriciousness rather that the sweet innocence we got. None the less I loved Aloysius and Luke. This was a sweet and lovely story of romance and responsibility.
June 13, 2023
Ya don't see to many endings to a series. Sometimes it's left where it is.
Here the player's are finding their place in the world. Suffering or just lonely! All lives touched by a very unusual but magical cat. Gifted by a wish from a witch.
Who knew an old hag's opinion would protect so many lives?
Here the player's are finding their place in the world. Suffering or just lonely! All lives touched by a very unusual but magical cat. Gifted by a wish from a witch.
Who knew an old hag's opinion would protect so many lives?
October 7, 2017
4.5 rounded up, because it's Aloysius, FFS. (Not to mention the artwork on the cover is deserving of at least a half-star.) My absolute favorite in the Aloysius Tales series. It was great to see so many of the MCs from the previous stories not just included, but pertinent to the plot. Have a feeling that there are more "tails" to be told. Meow!!!
July 21, 2020
4.5 stars
I loved Aloysius‘s story! Alain is so sweet and earnest. I loved the animals. There’s action and humour along with the feels. Definitely a great addition to the series. If there are no more books, this finishes things well.
I loved Aloysius‘s story! Alain is so sweet and earnest. I loved the animals. There’s action and humour along with the feels. Definitely a great addition to the series. If there are no more books, this finishes things well.
November 10, 2017
It was a nice book.
September 1, 2013
4 1/2 stars
“Cataclysmic Shift” by Tara Lain is the third exciting tale in the paranormal m/m ‘Aloysius Tales’ series about a group of witches and their associates. A horrendous attack results in bewildered Alain Bellarose ending up in the care of hunky but lonely veterinarian, Dr. Luke Elliott, who is enthralled but wary of the young amnesiac who has come into his life. The local witches are struggling to discover who is threatening them and Luke is struggling with his attraction for Alain and with his fears from his traumatic past but fortunately Alain seems to see everything in black and white and sees right to the heart of the reticent veterinarian. Now, the only obstacles are to solve the case of missing familiar, Aloysius, and for Alain and Luke to show each other their true selves.
This fun and imaginative m/m series is filled with fascinating and sexy characters who have extraordinary powers and remarkably generous hearts. The evolving dynamics of the enclave of beings who interact with each other and support the love that each pair has found is always intriguing and heartwarming. The author has such a deft touch with comedy and sensual romance and this story is a great example of it (although some of the visuals conjured up by Alain’s antics make me glad I wasn’t drinking anything at the time I read them). This is one of my favorite series by this author because the presentation of soberingly real issues faced by gay men is handled in a deft and sensitive manner while the stories themselves provide a very entertaining look at the benefits of a loving relationship, with a fantastical twist. I was very happy to get glimpses into the lives of characters presented in previous stories in this series and I am hopeful for many more tales in this universe.
© Night Owl Reviews
I received a copy of this title in return for an honest review.
“Cataclysmic Shift” by Tara Lain is the third exciting tale in the paranormal m/m ‘Aloysius Tales’ series about a group of witches and their associates. A horrendous attack results in bewildered Alain Bellarose ending up in the care of hunky but lonely veterinarian, Dr. Luke Elliott, who is enthralled but wary of the young amnesiac who has come into his life. The local witches are struggling to discover who is threatening them and Luke is struggling with his attraction for Alain and with his fears from his traumatic past but fortunately Alain seems to see everything in black and white and sees right to the heart of the reticent veterinarian. Now, the only obstacles are to solve the case of missing familiar, Aloysius, and for Alain and Luke to show each other their true selves.
This fun and imaginative m/m series is filled with fascinating and sexy characters who have extraordinary powers and remarkably generous hearts. The evolving dynamics of the enclave of beings who interact with each other and support the love that each pair has found is always intriguing and heartwarming. The author has such a deft touch with comedy and sensual romance and this story is a great example of it (although some of the visuals conjured up by Alain’s antics make me glad I wasn’t drinking anything at the time I read them). This is one of my favorite series by this author because the presentation of soberingly real issues faced by gay men is handled in a deft and sensitive manner while the stories themselves provide a very entertaining look at the benefits of a loving relationship, with a fantastical twist. I was very happy to get glimpses into the lives of characters presented in previous stories in this series and I am hopeful for many more tales in this universe.
© Night Owl Reviews
I received a copy of this title in return for an honest review.
September 24, 2013
Shifters and witches and humans all fight together for love.
Aloysius is a cat who also happens to magnify the strength of one of the most powerful witches in the world. Unfortunately, after being attacked, he becomes a human with no memory of who or what he is except his name--Alain. Luke Elliott is a veterinarian with a secret past, who prefers animals to humans until he discovers Alain. They quickly fall in love, but must determine if they can live with each other's pasts and futures.
Aloysius/Alain is endearing as both a cat and a man. Luke is a pretty lonely person who thinks he can spend the rest of his life just taking care of the animals and avoiding his past. As soon as these two meet, they both seem to agree that they were meant for each other. It was a little awkward listening to Alain make cat noises and watching him clean himself while he was in human form. The sex wasn't really kinky, but some of their discussions around it were a bit strange to a certain extent. The story moved quickly while alternating between the action, sex, and friendship scenes. I liked how the author managed to weave Luke's interesting background into the activities taking place surrounding the witches and their struggle for power.
I didn't read the first two stories in this series, and I think it would have made it more enjoyable if I had. Characters from the earlier story played a pivotal role in this book, and since I really enjoyed seeing them, I'm sure I would have loved them even more if I knew their history. Overall, I enjoyed this fast-paced story with a sweet romance and plenty of suspenseful action scenes.
September 2, 2013
Oh I really enjoyed this 3rd installment of the Aloysius Tales! In this story, we really get to know Al and find out about his past and how he came to be a witch's familiar.
At the opening of the story, Killian is once again under attack from some strange witches who seem to have not gotten the message that they should not mess with the Witch Master. Of course Al tried to protect Killian and Blaine and gets caught in the crossfire. He's injured so they take him to a vet that Blaine knows. While waiting for the vet to check on Al, it seems that he disappears. Luke, the vet, is apologetic, but Al is nowhere to be found. However the next day a very naked, very beautiful man is found asleep surrounded by the animals at the vet clinic. He thinks his name is Alain, but he has very fuzzy memories and doesn't know really who he is or how he came to be there.
Luke takes him home along with the kitten who seems to be attached to him that Alain tells him is named Amelia. They get long well although Luke is concerned as he is so attracted to Alain and he is also hiding a dangerous secret that could them both in danger.
I don't want to get any more spoilery with the plot, but Alain/Al comes to the rescue on more than one occasion. I loved that we got to spend some quality time with Killian and Blaine and also Ryder and Sammy and Jimmy and Lavender. There are some really funny moments of trying to explain the gay to Alain :D I loved him as a cat and I love him even more as a man too. What a fantastic character! I do so hope that we get to have more adventures of these lovely characters in the future. Not sure what Tara has planned, but would love more stories in this setting.
At the opening of the story, Killian is once again under attack from some strange witches who seem to have not gotten the message that they should not mess with the Witch Master. Of course Al tried to protect Killian and Blaine and gets caught in the crossfire. He's injured so they take him to a vet that Blaine knows. While waiting for the vet to check on Al, it seems that he disappears. Luke, the vet, is apologetic, but Al is nowhere to be found. However the next day a very naked, very beautiful man is found asleep surrounded by the animals at the vet clinic. He thinks his name is Alain, but he has very fuzzy memories and doesn't know really who he is or how he came to be there.
Luke takes him home along with the kitten who seems to be attached to him that Alain tells him is named Amelia. They get long well although Luke is concerned as he is so attracted to Alain and he is also hiding a dangerous secret that could them both in danger.
I don't want to get any more spoilery with the plot, but Alain/Al comes to the rescue on more than one occasion. I loved that we got to spend some quality time with Killian and Blaine and also Ryder and Sammy and Jimmy and Lavender. There are some really funny moments of trying to explain the gay to Alain :D I loved him as a cat and I love him even more as a man too. What a fantastic character! I do so hope that we get to have more adventures of these lovely characters in the future. Not sure what Tara has planned, but would love more stories in this setting.
Read
March 12, 2014Considering I love cats and that I'm pretty much of the idea that cats don't have owners, but that they chose the human who is best suited to take care of them, like a king paying a favor to a peasant, I was in line with the plot of Aloysius, the witch's familiar who is turned into the angelic beauty Alain, or maybe he is turned back? In Alain's form he falls in love with Luke, a young vet who doesn't know Alain's true form, and who doesn't question Alain's feline "quirks", on the contrary, he finds them endearing.
This was a "cute" fantasy romance, meaning that, it wasn't really pushing on the dangerous factor, but more in highlighting how pretty and flamboyant Alain was, how beautiful all supernatural creatures are, from male witches to elves to familiars who change shape. It had a some sort of yaoi flavor, maybe also due to the cover, but it was also something else, more subdued, I clearly remember that the cat-boy is indeed a recurrent theme in the yaoi novels.
Cataclysmic Shift was a light romance, a very pleasant read, especially if you are a cat lover; I don't think the reader had to dig and forcefully find a deeper meaning, if not the pleasure to spend some hours in a fantasy world. It was also naughty here and there, and truth be told, there were times when I didn't need it to be, I was happy enough with the innuendos, but that is entirely me, and instead, if you like some naughty sexy scene, you will find it here.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00E4C920E/?...
This was a "cute" fantasy romance, meaning that, it wasn't really pushing on the dangerous factor, but more in highlighting how pretty and flamboyant Alain was, how beautiful all supernatural creatures are, from male witches to elves to familiars who change shape. It had a some sort of yaoi flavor, maybe also due to the cover, but it was also something else, more subdued, I clearly remember that the cat-boy is indeed a recurrent theme in the yaoi novels.
Cataclysmic Shift was a light romance, a very pleasant read, especially if you are a cat lover; I don't think the reader had to dig and forcefully find a deeper meaning, if not the pleasure to spend some hours in a fantasy world. It was also naughty here and there, and truth be told, there were times when I didn't need it to be, I was happy enough with the innuendos, but that is entirely me, and instead, if you like some naughty sexy scene, you will find it here.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00E4C920E/?...
July 27, 2013
There are certain things you can expect from a Tara Lain book: sizzling heat, a ride through the range of emotions, and a smile in the end. This story is no exception!
There are two plot lines, one having to do with Luke and the other to do with Alain. They mesh really well so we get a good sense of both characters and they build to some really great moments, both happy and sad. I was on pins and needles through many parts filled with excitement, hope, dread, heartache…and I was just completely enthralled. I think this one is longer than the previous two books, but it’s so worth it and I still read it in one day.
I loved that we get not only cameos from the characters in books 1 and 2, but they were actually quite involved in the story, including getting to see their abilities at work. While I know the ending changes things quite a bit for Aloysius and Killian, but it’s still so endearing and heartwarming. I can’t wait for more!
Cataclysmic Shift was such a wonderful read. I laughed, I cried, and it tugged on my heart strings hardcore. Ultimately it’s a story that was so sweet, very exciting, and unquestionable compelling. I loved it! If you’re looking for a happy ending (in more ways than one), pick up this awesome book!
There are two plot lines, one having to do with Luke and the other to do with Alain. They mesh really well so we get a good sense of both characters and they build to some really great moments, both happy and sad. I was on pins and needles through many parts filled with excitement, hope, dread, heartache…and I was just completely enthralled. I think this one is longer than the previous two books, but it’s so worth it and I still read it in one day.
I loved that we get not only cameos from the characters in books 1 and 2, but they were actually quite involved in the story, including getting to see their abilities at work. While I know the ending changes things quite a bit for Aloysius and Killian, but it’s still so endearing and heartwarming. I can’t wait for more!
Cataclysmic Shift was such a wonderful read. I laughed, I cried, and it tugged on my heart strings hardcore. Ultimately it’s a story that was so sweet, very exciting, and unquestionable compelling. I loved it! If you’re looking for a happy ending (in more ways than one), pick up this awesome book!
September 4, 2013
This is the third book in the Aloysius Tales, and I love this series. Aloysius is a magical cat and a familiar to the most powerful witches, Killian (the Witchmaster) and Sammy (awesome future/painter/foreseer). In the midst of battle, Aloysius gets turned (or turned back?) into a human named Alain. Thus starts intrigue and romance. I have to admit it was a little odd hearing/reading about Alain meowing during inappropriate — or would that be appropriate? — times and some of his catlike mannerisms. Alain is also a bit too good, but it makes sense given who and what he is. This is a feel-good series, meant to lighten and enlighten, and does the job. I enjoyed seeing Killian and Blaine, but I love Ryder and Sammy more. I really, really, really want to see more of Ryder's people and powers. But back to Alain. I'm glad he got his HEA, and I always enjoy a Tara Lain novel.
To see more recs this week check out the HEA Blog
http://www.usatoday.com/story/happyev...
To see more recs this week check out the HEA Blog
http://www.usatoday.com/story/happyev...
December 12, 2013
4.5 Stars
Ms. Lain pulls off another winner, this is the third book in the Aloysius Tales series, and possibly my favorite. It had some serious heat, pulled out all kinds of emotions and then left me smiling.
The story follows both Luke and Alain, and their story melds beautifully together. I found myself going through such a wide range of emotions that I couldn’t help but just sit and read this story.
Past characters not only make appearances but they are important enough that we get to see them in action. I’m trying really hard to not give anything away. Things change with this story but the ending still made me so happy, I can only hope for more. This is a great story and series that I highly recommend.
I received a copy from the author. This is my honest review, I was not compensated for my review.
Ms. Lain pulls off another winner, this is the third book in the Aloysius Tales series, and possibly my favorite. It had some serious heat, pulled out all kinds of emotions and then left me smiling.
The story follows both Luke and Alain, and their story melds beautifully together. I found myself going through such a wide range of emotions that I couldn’t help but just sit and read this story.
Past characters not only make appearances but they are important enough that we get to see them in action. I’m trying really hard to not give anything away. Things change with this story but the ending still made me so happy, I can only hope for more. This is a great story and series that I highly recommend.
I received a copy from the author. This is my honest review, I was not compensated for my review.
November 10, 2014
Sweet and adorable. So fun to see Aloysius get his own HEA after helping others to theirs.
He's a little too wacky at times, and phrases things in ways that were uncomfortable enough to pull me out of the story, so this is likely my least favorite of the series. Still fun, though.
Favorite Quotes:
"Did you find the couch uncomfortable for sitting?"
Alain looked around at the spot of hardwood he lay on. "The couch doesn't have sun."
"So let's go find our soul cat."
If this kid wasn't gay, the rainbow team would be losing an MVP.
No way. How perfect. He couldn't stand humans, so he fell in love with a cat.
Man, these guys know how to love.
He's a little too wacky at times, and phrases things in ways that were uncomfortable enough to pull me out of the story, so this is likely my least favorite of the series. Still fun, though.
Favorite Quotes:
"Did you find the couch uncomfortable for sitting?"
Alain looked around at the spot of hardwood he lay on. "The couch doesn't have sun."
"So let's go find our soul cat."
If this kid wasn't gay, the rainbow team would be losing an MVP.
No way. How perfect. He couldn't stand humans, so he fell in love with a cat.
Man, these guys know how to love.
October 18, 2013
Love worth fighting for? Love worth dying for? In this story you will find that kind of love. On the way to that perfect love you will be taken on a ride of magical adventure, tearful depths of despair and find a guy so sweet and innocent that you will want to hold onto him forever, well at least Luke certainly does, we are just along for that ride! This is the third story in Tara Lain's magical Aloysius tales and it was her best one yet. Not sure if she will write another, but I would love to revisit this world anytime she wants to write about it.
July 29, 2013
Yes, yes yes my favorite!! Aloysius/Alain are just too precious for words. Thank you Tara again for a great story. And being the greedy reader I am I would love to see all these guys again. I can't wait to meet you in Oct.
August 27, 2013
LOved it!!
July 31, 2020
"Cataclysmic Shift", the third volume in "The Aloysius Tales" by Tara Lain, is in my opinion the best part in the series. Why? Let's start with the cat turning into a human. This is undoubtedly the most interesting theme of this part, as well as the most important for the entire plot. However, what makes this motif really noteworthy is the creation of Aloysius. The author really presented him in an incredibly harmonious way, because as a human he is not very feline and as a cat he is not entirely human. In other words, Aloysius retains the essential characteristics of the species he turns into. I really like that in this volume. Equally important in his creation is the fact that both the feline and the human "version" of our character share certain features that are simply characteristic of him, such as the desire to protect some friends and his love for others. What's more, he is extraordinarily intelligent, which he can use well, but at the same time he is also innocent and silly. No wonder we love him even more than before.
The creation of Luke, the second of the main characters in this volume, is also very successful. Most of all, I like the fact that he is not really just a veterinarian, as his profession is not what characterizes him. Luke is someone who had to fight for every penny to achieve his goal, make his dreams come true. It is also important that although he is a gentle person, who loves animals and avoids people, looking at his past, we know that he is not, or rather was not, an innocent, exemplary citizen. Moreover, Luke was created in a way that really matches that of Aloysius or Alain. In other words, these two are a perfect match, because who they were and who they are intertwined creating a fantastic whole that enamours the reader in the blink of an eye and to the very end. No matter which page of the novel we are on, Luke and Aloysius are simply a perfect match.
And since we started the topic of matching, the fantastic, noticeable and extremely enjoyable to read about chemistry between our characters and the dynamic of their relationship is undoubtedly worth our attention. In "Cataclysmic Shift" I really liked the fact that both Luke and Aloysius are like teachers who teach each other ins and outs of life, the secrets of everyday routine, the magic of love. Another great advantage is the fact that the author shows the dynamics of our characters' relationship in a way that is often very funny, sometimes sweet and sometimes hot. This makes the reader feel like they were filled with positive energy so they read this novel with unwavering interest.
In conclusion, "Cataclysmic Shift" is a really good, interesting novel that charms the reader really quickly. If after reading the two previous volumes you are not addicted to this series yet, this part will definitely change it, as it will make saying goodbye to the characters of this series really hard and when you close the book you will miss them immediately.
_________________________
„Cataclysmic Shift”, trzeci tom „The Aloysius Tales” autorstwa Tary Lain jest moim zdaniem najlepszą częścią całej serii. Dlaczego? Zacznijmy od kota zamieniającego się w człowieka. Jest to niewątpliwie najciekawszy motyw tej części, jak również najważniejszy dla przebiegu całej fabuły. Jednak tym, co czyni ten wątek naprawdę godnym uwagi jest przede wszystkim kreacja Aloysiusa. Autorka naprawdę przedstawiła go w sposób niesamowicie harmonijny, ponieważ jako człowiek nie jest zbyt koci, zaś jako kot nie jest całkowicie ludzki. Inaczej mówiąc, Aloysius zachowuje najistotniejsze cechy gatunku, w który się zamienia. Bardzo mi się to w tym tomie spodobało. Równie istotny w jego kreacji jest również fakt, że zarówno kocią, jak i ludzką „wersję” naszego bohatera łączą pewne cechy, które są po prostu charakterystycznymi dla niego, jak chociażby chęć ochrony niektórych przyjaciół oraz miłość względem innych. Co więcej, jest nieprzeciętnie inteligentny, co potrafi dobrze wykorzystać, ale jednocześnie jest też niewinny i głupiutki. Nic więc dziwnego, że kochamy go jeszcze bardziej niż dotychczas.
Kreacja Luke’a, drugiego z głównych bohaterów tego tomu, również należy do bardzo udanych. Przede wszystkim podoba mi się to, że tak naprawdę nie jest tylko weterynarzem, jako że jego zawód nie jest tym, co go charakteryzuje. Luke jest kimś, kto aby osiągnąć swój cel, spełnić marzenia musiał walczyć o każdy grosz. Istotne jest również to, że chociaż jest osobą łagodną, kochającą zwierzęta, unikającą ludzi, to jednak patrząc na jego przeszłość wiemy, że nie jest, lub raczej nie był, niewinnym, przykładnym obywatelem. Co więcej, Luke został wykreowany w sposób naprawdę pasujące do postaci Aloysiusa czy też Alaina. Mówiąc inaczej, tych dwoje naprawdę idealnie do siebie pasuje, ponieważ to kim byli oraz to kim są splata się w fantastyczną całość, która oczarowuje czytelnika w mgnieniu oka i do samego końca lektury. Nie ważne na której stronie powieści jesteśmy, Luke i Aloysius są idealnie dobrani.
A skoro w temacie ich dobrania się jesteśmy, niewątpliwie warto zwrócić uwagę również na fantastyczną, wyczuwalną i cieszącą czytelnika chemię między naszymi bohaterami oraz dynamikę ich relacji. W „Cataclysmic Shift” bardzo spodobało mi się to, że zarówno Luke, jak i Aloysius są dla siebie nawzajem nauczycielami, którzy uczą siebie nawzajem tajników życia, sekretów codzienności, magii miłości. Dużą zaletą jest także fakt, iż autorka ukazuje dynamikę relacji naszych bohaterów w sposób często bardzo zabawny, czasami słodki, a czasami gorący. Dzięki temu czytelnik naprawdę czuje się naładowany pozytywną energią i pochłania tę powieść z niegasnącym zainteresowaniem.
Podsumowując, „Cataclysmic Shift” to naprawdę dobra, interesująca powieść, która naprawdę szybko oczarowuje czytelnika. Jeśli po przeczytaniu dwóch poprzednich tomów nie jesteście jeszcze uzależnieni od tej serii to ta część zdecydowanie sprawi, że nie będziecie chcieli rozstawać się z bohaterami tej serii i zamykając książkę od razu za nimi zatęsknicie.
The creation of Luke, the second of the main characters in this volume, is also very successful. Most of all, I like the fact that he is not really just a veterinarian, as his profession is not what characterizes him. Luke is someone who had to fight for every penny to achieve his goal, make his dreams come true. It is also important that although he is a gentle person, who loves animals and avoids people, looking at his past, we know that he is not, or rather was not, an innocent, exemplary citizen. Moreover, Luke was created in a way that really matches that of Aloysius or Alain. In other words, these two are a perfect match, because who they were and who they are intertwined creating a fantastic whole that enamours the reader in the blink of an eye and to the very end. No matter which page of the novel we are on, Luke and Aloysius are simply a perfect match.
And since we started the topic of matching, the fantastic, noticeable and extremely enjoyable to read about chemistry between our characters and the dynamic of their relationship is undoubtedly worth our attention. In "Cataclysmic Shift" I really liked the fact that both Luke and Aloysius are like teachers who teach each other ins and outs of life, the secrets of everyday routine, the magic of love. Another great advantage is the fact that the author shows the dynamics of our characters' relationship in a way that is often very funny, sometimes sweet and sometimes hot. This makes the reader feel like they were filled with positive energy so they read this novel with unwavering interest.
In conclusion, "Cataclysmic Shift" is a really good, interesting novel that charms the reader really quickly. If after reading the two previous volumes you are not addicted to this series yet, this part will definitely change it, as it will make saying goodbye to the characters of this series really hard and when you close the book you will miss them immediately.
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„Cataclysmic Shift”, trzeci tom „The Aloysius Tales” autorstwa Tary Lain jest moim zdaniem najlepszą częścią całej serii. Dlaczego? Zacznijmy od kota zamieniającego się w człowieka. Jest to niewątpliwie najciekawszy motyw tej części, jak również najważniejszy dla przebiegu całej fabuły. Jednak tym, co czyni ten wątek naprawdę godnym uwagi jest przede wszystkim kreacja Aloysiusa. Autorka naprawdę przedstawiła go w sposób niesamowicie harmonijny, ponieważ jako człowiek nie jest zbyt koci, zaś jako kot nie jest całkowicie ludzki. Inaczej mówiąc, Aloysius zachowuje najistotniejsze cechy gatunku, w który się zamienia. Bardzo mi się to w tym tomie spodobało. Równie istotny w jego kreacji jest również fakt, że zarówno kocią, jak i ludzką „wersję” naszego bohatera łączą pewne cechy, które są po prostu charakterystycznymi dla niego, jak chociażby chęć ochrony niektórych przyjaciół oraz miłość względem innych. Co więcej, jest nieprzeciętnie inteligentny, co potrafi dobrze wykorzystać, ale jednocześnie jest też niewinny i głupiutki. Nic więc dziwnego, że kochamy go jeszcze bardziej niż dotychczas.
Kreacja Luke’a, drugiego z głównych bohaterów tego tomu, również należy do bardzo udanych. Przede wszystkim podoba mi się to, że tak naprawdę nie jest tylko weterynarzem, jako że jego zawód nie jest tym, co go charakteryzuje. Luke jest kimś, kto aby osiągnąć swój cel, spełnić marzenia musiał walczyć o każdy grosz. Istotne jest również to, że chociaż jest osobą łagodną, kochającą zwierzęta, unikającą ludzi, to jednak patrząc na jego przeszłość wiemy, że nie jest, lub raczej nie był, niewinnym, przykładnym obywatelem. Co więcej, Luke został wykreowany w sposób naprawdę pasujące do postaci Aloysiusa czy też Alaina. Mówiąc inaczej, tych dwoje naprawdę idealnie do siebie pasuje, ponieważ to kim byli oraz to kim są splata się w fantastyczną całość, która oczarowuje czytelnika w mgnieniu oka i do samego końca lektury. Nie ważne na której stronie powieści jesteśmy, Luke i Aloysius są idealnie dobrani.
A skoro w temacie ich dobrania się jesteśmy, niewątpliwie warto zwrócić uwagę również na fantastyczną, wyczuwalną i cieszącą czytelnika chemię między naszymi bohaterami oraz dynamikę ich relacji. W „Cataclysmic Shift” bardzo spodobało mi się to, że zarówno Luke, jak i Aloysius są dla siebie nawzajem nauczycielami, którzy uczą siebie nawzajem tajników życia, sekretów codzienności, magii miłości. Dużą zaletą jest także fakt, iż autorka ukazuje dynamikę relacji naszych bohaterów w sposób często bardzo zabawny, czasami słodki, a czasami gorący. Dzięki temu czytelnik naprawdę czuje się naładowany pozytywną energią i pochłania tę powieść z niegasnącym zainteresowaniem.
Podsumowując, „Cataclysmic Shift” to naprawdę dobra, interesująca powieść, która naprawdę szybko oczarowuje czytelnika. Jeśli po przeczytaniu dwóch poprzednich tomów nie jesteście jeszcze uzależnieni od tej serii to ta część zdecydowanie sprawi, że nie będziecie chcieli rozstawać się z bohaterami tej serii i zamykając książkę od razu za nimi zatęsknicie.
August 28, 2017
OH How I enjoy this series. It has all the paranormal things you will crave. Tara gives us more Killian and Blaine plus Jimmy but this is Aloysius's story.
I would suggest you start with book 1 in this series so you can see are all these men and witches come together. Al is a cat but he is a very special cat. Al is a powerful witch’s familiar who protects those he loves which includes Killian and Blaine. When they are attacked by other witch's, Al jumps to save the day but gets hit instead.
He wakes up in human form in Luke's vet clinic and doesn't remember much about who he is and how he gets there. He get bits and pieces of his prior life but can't seem to put it all together. Al just knows that when he meets Killian and Blaine he has to urge to protect them.
Al is a great character, he doesn't know anything about being a human and it is so cute to read how he learns about it.
I liked Luke, he loves animals more than humans until he meets Al. Luke helps Al when he finds him in his clinic. Luke has a secret too and will soon find out what it is in the story.
I liked the action in this one and all of the witches come together to save the day but Al and Luke's love story is the main focus.
I think to me this story is about second chances at love and how to forget everything you think you know about the world and open your mind.
Luke and Al are a perfect pair. Their chemistry is sweet and grows quickly. Al has to go through so much to protect the ones he loves but in the end it is worth everything to him.
I am hoping this isn't the end of this series and Tara will give us more.
*ARC provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Jodi from Alpha Book Club
I would suggest you start with book 1 in this series so you can see are all these men and witches come together. Al is a cat but he is a very special cat. Al is a powerful witch’s familiar who protects those he loves which includes Killian and Blaine. When they are attacked by other witch's, Al jumps to save the day but gets hit instead.
He wakes up in human form in Luke's vet clinic and doesn't remember much about who he is and how he gets there. He get bits and pieces of his prior life but can't seem to put it all together. Al just knows that when he meets Killian and Blaine he has to urge to protect them.
Al is a great character, he doesn't know anything about being a human and it is so cute to read how he learns about it.
I liked Luke, he loves animals more than humans until he meets Al. Luke helps Al when he finds him in his clinic. Luke has a secret too and will soon find out what it is in the story.
I liked the action in this one and all of the witches come together to save the day but Al and Luke's love story is the main focus.
I think to me this story is about second chances at love and how to forget everything you think you know about the world and open your mind.
Luke and Al are a perfect pair. Their chemistry is sweet and grows quickly. Al has to go through so much to protect the ones he loves but in the end it is worth everything to him.
I am hoping this isn't the end of this series and Tara will give us more.
*ARC provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Jodi from Alpha Book Club
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