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The Persistence of Memory #1
Déjà Vu
When superheroes fall in love, anything can happen.
Daniel Hecht doesn’t belong in this century. Catapulted into the present from 1943, he’s out of place and out of touch. Still, he was the American war hero called “Lionheart” and his heroism has followed him into the modern world. He now leads an underground group of superpowered misfits, but the misfit he keeps turning to is Nina Asher.
Nina has a vast knowledge of history, yet no idea who she is or where she’s from. She has become the target of dangerous creatures that have appeared all over the world. As she and Daniel work to decipher an ancient, cryptic myth, they experience flashbacks to things that never could have happened. They are falling in love, but there’s something they’re sure they need to remember, and it’s keeping them apart.
The key to saving the world may begin with the act of remembering.
Daniel Hecht doesn’t belong in this century. Catapulted into the present from 1943, he’s out of place and out of touch. Still, he was the American war hero called “Lionheart” and his heroism has followed him into the modern world. He now leads an underground group of superpowered misfits, but the misfit he keeps turning to is Nina Asher.
Nina has a vast knowledge of history, yet no idea who she is or where she’s from. She has become the target of dangerous creatures that have appeared all over the world. As she and Daniel work to decipher an ancient, cryptic myth, they experience flashbacks to things that never could have happened. They are falling in love, but there’s something they’re sure they need to remember, and it’s keeping them apart.
The key to saving the world may begin with the act of remembering.
208 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 22, 2019
20 people are currently reading
113 people want to read
About the author
Karen Janowsky
10 books171 followersKaren wanted to be an author and/or Wonder Woman when she grew up. One of those jobs was already taken, though. She lives with her husband, son, and six cats in Maryland, where she teaches college literature and writing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
March 26, 2019
Superheroes, created, transported through time, are they experiencing DÉJÀ VU when two of them find a romantic connection that has endured through the ages?
Karen Janowsky debuts her creative talents with something fresh in a world full of superheroes, paranormals and fantasies, adding a sweet taste of romance along the way. Daniel Hecht has a past, he is a legendary hero, but in the modern world, he is the leader of an underground group of superpowered humans, none quite fitting into society. The day Nina Asher came into his life, he knew he had found someone special, but Nina has no memories of her past. Could it be that her interests in history will uncover a past neither could imagine? Are they meant to be together throughout time?
Certainly a unique reading experience for me, two outwardly normal people who are truly extraordinary find a sweet connection and a budding romance.
Karen Janowsky is a fresh voice, creates a world filled with both the past and present and weaves a tale that is both intriguing and romantically passionate. I look forward to more from this talented author!
I received a complimentary copy from Karen Janowsky!
Trilogy: The Persistence of Memory - Book 1
Publisher: Mill City Press (February 24, 2019)
Publication Date: February 24, 2019
Genre: Urban Fantasy | Romance
Print Length: 208 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Karen Janowsky debuts her creative talents with something fresh in a world full of superheroes, paranormals and fantasies, adding a sweet taste of romance along the way. Daniel Hecht has a past, he is a legendary hero, but in the modern world, he is the leader of an underground group of superpowered humans, none quite fitting into society. The day Nina Asher came into his life, he knew he had found someone special, but Nina has no memories of her past. Could it be that her interests in history will uncover a past neither could imagine? Are they meant to be together throughout time?
Certainly a unique reading experience for me, two outwardly normal people who are truly extraordinary find a sweet connection and a budding romance.
Karen Janowsky is a fresh voice, creates a world filled with both the past and present and weaves a tale that is both intriguing and romantically passionate. I look forward to more from this talented author!
I received a complimentary copy from Karen Janowsky!
Trilogy: The Persistence of Memory - Book 1
Publisher: Mill City Press (February 24, 2019)
Publication Date: February 24, 2019
Genre: Urban Fantasy | Romance
Print Length: 208 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
May 20, 2019
Historical fiction meets superheroes. What else could I ask for?
You can also read my review here
Major Daniel Hecht is just a sickly boy live in 1938. That is until The Nazis took and change him into something else. He becomes powerful, his strength increasing. He also made it to 2011, still looking like a 30-year-old man.
In 2011, Nina Asher feels like she misses something important. Her memories, they're gone. Even with amnesia, it didn't discourage Roosevelt University to recruit her as the archivist.
They meet accidentally but once they see each other's faces, something clicks between them. It's like they have met before but neither of them remembers.
But what they didn't know is that danger is coming. And sometimes, facing the truth is the only way to save the world, even doing so may be the hardest part of it all.
When I read the synopsis, this book intrigued me instantly. I love historical fiction and the idea of it mixed with superpower and romance made me eager to read Déja Vú. I expected something like The Sword and The Dagger meets Percy Jackson. Amazing story, awesome action, interesting characters and addicting romance, Déjà Vu didn't disappoint me.
Set mainly in 2011, this book sometimes going back to the past around 1900. I loved the back and forth time format, it made me not missing anything going on in the present and knowing what happened in the past. If you're afraid that you're going to dislike the flashback because there is something interesting happening in the present, don't worry. Janowsky put the order perfectly. There were no annoying cuts, I got the flashback right when I need it.
I also enjoyed when the characters go on their missions! I really felt the superhero vibes and I can't get enough of it. I loved the suspense during the action scenes. The way those scenes were written, it made me craving for more. Janowsky did a great job building all of my feelings step by step with a steady pace until I reached the climax and everything felt so good. And tell you what, I'm here for the romance. I had a feeling that it's going to be great but I didn't think that I'd enjoy it as much as I did. All the tension, the sweet brushes of hands, the hugs and kisses, I LOVE AND SUPPORT.
Now, let's meet the characters! All of them seemed like a fun person to be hanging out with though I didn't get enough moments with the side characters. I think Janowsky focused more on the development of the two MC and it was worth it.
Daniel, as the ex of a brutal experiment, he became a Lionheart, a face of bravery. He was such a gentleman. The way he talked and act around Nina was patient and gentle. I respect him for that. And to be honest, I kinda mad at him near the end. But well, people act differently when they're angry. At least, he realized his mistake, thank goodness. Oh, and there was one scene of him that super hilarious. I can't stop laughing while reading it. What a nice refreshing from the actual danger the characters were facing.
Having amnesia didn't stop Nina for being amazing. She was brave and kind. I really liked her! There are many of my favorite scenes of her. I always love a strong female character. Give me more of characters like Nina!
Though the story was awesome, this series seems promising, and the main characters are interesting, I found it hard to keep my eyes on the book. That doesn't mean this book was boring. No, not at all. It got something to do with the writing. The words didn't engage me enough so I wasn't really into it at the beginning. As the story goes, I could get used to how this book was written but it'd be nice if Janowsky's writing was more 'tell' than 'show'.
Overall, Déjà Vu was a great read. The plot is done nicely. It gave enough but didn't spill all the fun so I'm looking forward to reading the sequel! I wish there will be more action scenes and I get to see more from the side characters in the next book. If you're looking for a historical fiction book with superpower, myth, and romance, I recommend you to read this book.
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You can also read my review here
“No, this is human love. It’s messy and ugly sometimes. But it’s also worth it.”
Major Daniel Hecht is just a sickly boy live in 1938. That is until The Nazis took and change him into something else. He becomes powerful, his strength increasing. He also made it to 2011, still looking like a 30-year-old man.
In 2011, Nina Asher feels like she misses something important. Her memories, they're gone. Even with amnesia, it didn't discourage Roosevelt University to recruit her as the archivist.
They meet accidentally but once they see each other's faces, something clicks between them. It's like they have met before but neither of them remembers.
But what they didn't know is that danger is coming. And sometimes, facing the truth is the only way to save the world, even doing so may be the hardest part of it all.
When I read the synopsis, this book intrigued me instantly. I love historical fiction and the idea of it mixed with superpower and romance made me eager to read Déja Vú. I expected something like The Sword and The Dagger meets Percy Jackson. Amazing story, awesome action, interesting characters and addicting romance, Déjà Vu didn't disappoint me.
“You’re incredibly significant,” Ty whispered. “Remember that. Every one of us is made of stars. We’re all necessary.”
Set mainly in 2011, this book sometimes going back to the past around 1900. I loved the back and forth time format, it made me not missing anything going on in the present and knowing what happened in the past. If you're afraid that you're going to dislike the flashback because there is something interesting happening in the present, don't worry. Janowsky put the order perfectly. There were no annoying cuts, I got the flashback right when I need it.
I also enjoyed when the characters go on their missions! I really felt the superhero vibes and I can't get enough of it. I loved the suspense during the action scenes. The way those scenes were written, it made me craving for more. Janowsky did a great job building all of my feelings step by step with a steady pace until I reached the climax and everything felt so good. And tell you what, I'm here for the romance. I had a feeling that it's going to be great but I didn't think that I'd enjoy it as much as I did. All the tension, the sweet brushes of hands, the hugs and kisses, I LOVE AND SUPPORT.
“A compass. You are at a crossroads of your life. You need direction,”he exclaimed exuberantly. “And a large one, on your back where you can’t look at it and second-guess.”
Now, let's meet the characters! All of them seemed like a fun person to be hanging out with though I didn't get enough moments with the side characters. I think Janowsky focused more on the development of the two MC and it was worth it.
Daniel, as the ex of a brutal experiment, he became a Lionheart, a face of bravery. He was such a gentleman. The way he talked and act around Nina was patient and gentle. I respect him for that. And to be honest, I kinda mad at him near the end. But well, people act differently when they're angry. At least, he realized his mistake, thank goodness. Oh, and there was one scene of him that super hilarious. I can't stop laughing while reading it. What a nice refreshing from the actual danger the characters were facing.
Having amnesia didn't stop Nina for being amazing. She was brave and kind. I really liked her! There are many of my favorite scenes of her. I always love a strong female character. Give me more of characters like Nina!
Though the story was awesome, this series seems promising, and the main characters are interesting, I found it hard to keep my eyes on the book. That doesn't mean this book was boring. No, not at all. It got something to do with the writing. The words didn't engage me enough so I wasn't really into it at the beginning. As the story goes, I could get used to how this book was written but it'd be nice if Janowsky's writing was more 'tell' than 'show'.
She didn’t need anyone’s protection. Nina never needed anything from him. It was all a fantasy.
Overall, Déjà Vu was a great read. The plot is done nicely. It gave enough but didn't spill all the fun so I'm looking forward to reading the sequel! I wish there will be more action scenes and I get to see more from the side characters in the next book. If you're looking for a historical fiction book with superpower, myth, and romance, I recommend you to read this book.
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July 4, 2020
Enjoyed it!
The story is told beautifully well. Every scene of the story has been etched very well. Right from Daniel and Nina's romance to the disturbing dreams which they both have and how it all comes together is almost poetic. It was lovely reading the story of how the Gods got the two characters together.
The story is told beautifully well. Every scene of the story has been etched very well. Right from Daniel and Nina's romance to the disturbing dreams which they both have and how it all comes together is almost poetic. It was lovely reading the story of how the Gods got the two characters together.
May 17, 2019
I have a weakness for superhero stories and am always happy to dive into new ones. In fact, I’m constantly on the lookout for more as I feel I have not read enough in this genre. Thus, I was happy to dive into Karen Janowsky’s Déjà Vu.
Déjà Vu offered more than just the superhero storyline I love. It offered time travel and a little used mythology, two other things I really enjoy. On top of that, this one fits plenty of other interesting elements in, ensuring the story offered plenty of to keep me addicted.
In truth, it took me a while to get into this one. There was a lot of set-up early in the book, and quite a few points where there were information dumps. These things left me interested but not invested. I was curious how everything would come together but I was not obsessed with the characters and the storyline.
As the story progressed, I grew more invested in the storyline. There are plenty of things introduced, and I’m curious to see how things will come together. I have a lot of questions, and I need to get my answers. Unfortunately, the same was not true of the characters. Although I came to know of them, I did not get to know them. I felt at a distance to them and was never invested in them as individuals. Thus, I found the romance between the lead characters didn’t quite work for me.
Overall, the first book in The Persistence of Memory series offered plenty to keep me turning the pages. It wasn’t quite the story I’d expected it to be, but it has left me curious for more.
Déjà Vu offered more than just the superhero storyline I love. It offered time travel and a little used mythology, two other things I really enjoy. On top of that, this one fits plenty of other interesting elements in, ensuring the story offered plenty of to keep me addicted.
In truth, it took me a while to get into this one. There was a lot of set-up early in the book, and quite a few points where there were information dumps. These things left me interested but not invested. I was curious how everything would come together but I was not obsessed with the characters and the storyline.
As the story progressed, I grew more invested in the storyline. There are plenty of things introduced, and I’m curious to see how things will come together. I have a lot of questions, and I need to get my answers. Unfortunately, the same was not true of the characters. Although I came to know of them, I did not get to know them. I felt at a distance to them and was never invested in them as individuals. Thus, I found the romance between the lead characters didn’t quite work for me.
Overall, the first book in The Persistence of Memory series offered plenty to keep me turning the pages. It wasn’t quite the story I’d expected it to be, but it has left me curious for more.
May 21, 2019
This has a really interesting premise. I loved the mix of historical, fantasy, and superheros who don't quite fit in. I've never read much for time travel so that was new for me and I really enjoyed it. The connection between Daniel and Nina was strong.
It took me a while to really get into it. With this being the first book, there was a lot of setting up the world and story. There were some places where a lot of info was just dumped on the reader. I was really interested to see where the story was going.
Overall, I found it quite interesting and i'm looking forward to more.
It took me a while to really get into it. With this being the first book, there was a lot of setting up the world and story. There were some places where a lot of info was just dumped on the reader. I was really interested to see where the story was going.
Overall, I found it quite interesting and i'm looking forward to more.
March 27, 2019
The first novel in the Persistence of Memory trilogy, Deja Vu, does not disappoint. I was first intrigued by this novel and thus the trilogy due to the melding of genres. Not only is this book a work of historical fiction, but it is also action packed and possess romantic elements. I loved how this novel flowed seamlessly through the genres. In addition, the plot and characters are developed fantastically. I loved the many facets of Daniel's character and how he's not your typical "superhero." He is shy and modest, full of passionate feelings, yet unsure of how to act on those feelings. The relationship that develops between Daniel and Nina is beautiful and I cannot wait to see how their story unfolds in the following books in this trilogy. Beautifully created world to get lost in!
April 8, 2019
The premise of this book drew my attention because it sounded unique. Unfortunately, it took me a little longer than I would have liked to feel invested in the storyline. There was a lot of "setup" early in the book. Due to this, the book did not flow as smoothly as I thought it should have. However, once the book captured my attention, I was definitely connected with what was going on. Also, I enjoyed the quirkiness of Nina and Daniel's characters. Overall, I think this series is promising and look forward to continuing it.
June 9, 2019
Loved the book! Looking forward to reading the rest in the series!
April 10, 2019
Remarkable travel through time ...
Janowsky pens a remarkable story in Déjà vu. First, I like that it seemed to have a little bit of everything, from time-travel, to sci-fi slash fantasy tones, and adding in superheroes and a hint of eroticism. It's an easy read as it had a great story telling pace, and character development. Mixing or blending of different genres can be a task, but it was pulled off in this story, wonderfully. The characters had different depths of themselves, and a unique look at the time era. I know this is only the first book, but I hope to read the next ones in the series. Janowsky has caught my eye with this story. I look forward to reading more by this author.
Janowsky pens a remarkable story in Déjà vu. First, I like that it seemed to have a little bit of everything, from time-travel, to sci-fi slash fantasy tones, and adding in superheroes and a hint of eroticism. It's an easy read as it had a great story telling pace, and character development. Mixing or blending of different genres can be a task, but it was pulled off in this story, wonderfully. The characters had different depths of themselves, and a unique look at the time era. I know this is only the first book, but I hope to read the next ones in the series. Janowsky has caught my eye with this story. I look forward to reading more by this author.
October 16, 2019
An awesome read
You had me at the title. Kudos, Karen for a read beyond words...as an avid reader, I loved the style, subject, and this touched me in so many ways. Thank you for an amazing story...waiting for what is next.
You had me at the title. Kudos, Karen for a read beyond words...as an avid reader, I loved the style, subject, and this touched me in so many ways. Thank you for an amazing story...waiting for what is next.
April 21, 2019
Reviewed For Readers' Favorite by Grant Leishman
As they say… “…and now for something completely different.” That is exactly what Déjà vu: The Persistence of Memory by Karen Janowsky, brought me. This book took me completely by surprise with both its premise and its development. Major Daniel Hecht was somewhat of an enigma. A sickly, weak, American Jew who was captured by the Nazis in 1938, Daniel was subjected to horrific experiments by the Nazi overlords who were working on a formula to make the “perfect” soldier. When Daniel was finally freed by a group of partisans, he was used and abused by the American armed services for his special abilities. Then, right in the middle of the war something odd happened and Daniel was thrust through time to 2012 where he was again recruited by an organisation who wanted to use his special talents along with some other “super heroes” to keep the forces of evil at bay. When Daniel, an awkward introvert meets Nina, a new recruit, both instantly know there is something special between them. Despite neither having memories of the event, they are sure they have always known each other, and that there is a special bond between them. Daniel, Nina and the rest of the rag-tag super heroes set about to try to stop the collection of ancient artefacts that together could create a super weapon for the forces of evil.
I absolutely loved this book. The premise was so outlandish and the story so personal and real you, as a reader, could not help being drawn into the jumbled world of Daniel and Nina. Déjà vu: The Persistence of Memory is an enigma in itself. Somehow author Karen Janowsky has managed to combine an action-packed narrative of super-heroes with a sweet, beautiful love story that plays out between Daniel and Nina. Both characters are so incredibly naïve as to the ways of the world that at times you really want to shout at them… “for God’s sake, just do it.” The writing style is relaxed and comfortable. I was able to read this book in a single setting. It is one of those stories you just simply cannot put down because you are always searching for the next step, the next move in the relationship. The erotic writing in the book is a very small part, but an extremely powerful part. I felt the author handled these scenes with such tenderness and care that it was an absolute pleasure to read. If you love good Science Fiction or Fantasy with plenty of twists and turns, or if you just love a ripping good adventure yarn with plenty of romance, you will love this book. I did and I can highly recommend it.
As they say… “…and now for something completely different.” That is exactly what Déjà vu: The Persistence of Memory by Karen Janowsky, brought me. This book took me completely by surprise with both its premise and its development. Major Daniel Hecht was somewhat of an enigma. A sickly, weak, American Jew who was captured by the Nazis in 1938, Daniel was subjected to horrific experiments by the Nazi overlords who were working on a formula to make the “perfect” soldier. When Daniel was finally freed by a group of partisans, he was used and abused by the American armed services for his special abilities. Then, right in the middle of the war something odd happened and Daniel was thrust through time to 2012 where he was again recruited by an organisation who wanted to use his special talents along with some other “super heroes” to keep the forces of evil at bay. When Daniel, an awkward introvert meets Nina, a new recruit, both instantly know there is something special between them. Despite neither having memories of the event, they are sure they have always known each other, and that there is a special bond between them. Daniel, Nina and the rest of the rag-tag super heroes set about to try to stop the collection of ancient artefacts that together could create a super weapon for the forces of evil.
I absolutely loved this book. The premise was so outlandish and the story so personal and real you, as a reader, could not help being drawn into the jumbled world of Daniel and Nina. Déjà vu: The Persistence of Memory is an enigma in itself. Somehow author Karen Janowsky has managed to combine an action-packed narrative of super-heroes with a sweet, beautiful love story that plays out between Daniel and Nina. Both characters are so incredibly naïve as to the ways of the world that at times you really want to shout at them… “for God’s sake, just do it.” The writing style is relaxed and comfortable. I was able to read this book in a single setting. It is one of those stories you just simply cannot put down because you are always searching for the next step, the next move in the relationship. The erotic writing in the book is a very small part, but an extremely powerful part. I felt the author handled these scenes with such tenderness and care that it was an absolute pleasure to read. If you love good Science Fiction or Fantasy with plenty of twists and turns, or if you just love a ripping good adventure yarn with plenty of romance, you will love this book. I did and I can highly recommend it.
April 26, 2019
Starts in November 1938, Germany, then jumps forward to 2011. Daniel has been changed from a sick young man and has become a super hero nicknamed Lionheart. Daniel was an American visiting Germany, then taken and experimented on by the Nazi's. He's rescued but has changed into a super soldier, but still thinks himself as a ""sick, weak, clueless kid from the Bronx." Seeking answers he returns to the Nazi camp seeking answers and next finds himself in Iraq deserts in 2008. He's taken in by a group, that brings super powered beings together to work to keep the world safe. For all of Daniel's strengths, is social awkward and shy.
In 2011, Nina joins the ranks of their super hero team but has lost her memory. When she meets Daniel they have an instant connection. This story is mostly about their relationship, it's slow and awkward and full of fumbling as Daniel has no confidence or experience and Nina has no memories, but knows she feels safe and comfortable with Daniel. The action and adventure are more like little side trips in this story and while some things are revealed, most is left dangling by the end of the story.
It was an interesting, albeit slow read. The relationship between these two is painful at times and when Nina's true nature is revealed Daniel takes his shock to extremes, avoiding her. I didn't care for Daniel very much, right then even if the author tries to explain his low self esteem as the cause of his jerkiness. In saying all that I am interested in where this series plans to go. I voluntarily received this book for an honest review.
More of my reviews can be found at https://wyldheartreads.wordpress.com/
In 2011, Nina joins the ranks of their super hero team but has lost her memory. When she meets Daniel they have an instant connection. This story is mostly about their relationship, it's slow and awkward and full of fumbling as Daniel has no confidence or experience and Nina has no memories, but knows she feels safe and comfortable with Daniel. The action and adventure are more like little side trips in this story and while some things are revealed, most is left dangling by the end of the story.
It was an interesting, albeit slow read. The relationship between these two is painful at times and when Nina's true nature is revealed Daniel takes his shock to extremes, avoiding her. I didn't care for Daniel very much, right then even if the author tries to explain his low self esteem as the cause of his jerkiness. In saying all that I am interested in where this series plans to go. I voluntarily received this book for an honest review.
More of my reviews can be found at https://wyldheartreads.wordpress.com/
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 13, 2019
“Déjà vu,” Karen Janowsky’s debut novel and the first of her trilogy, “The Persistence of Memory,” is a beautiful story and, in my opinion, something fresh in a crowded field of superhero stories; an adult work of fiction that takes the characters seriously. They’re finely crafted with nuance and depth, and the reader comes to care deeply about them. In “Déjà vu,” superheroes don’t always win, they’re complicated and sometimes are their own worst enemy, and romance is presented as something deeper and more sophisticated than a body pumped full of raging hormones and the results of rubbing those bodies together. Make no mistake, however, and be warned—this is a very, very sexy book, written for adults, which treats sexuality openly and beautifully. I’m not a fan of the romance genre. But if this is a sample of the future of the genre (and I think it might be), I could be persuaded to change my mind.
Ms. Janowsky shows herself to be a master of another genre as well: historical fiction. We move between such diverse times and places as a World War Two concentration camp, late 1930’s Brooklyn, contemporary Washington D.C., and ancient Sumeria. Well-researched and full of careful detail, the worlds she creates are fascinating and spring to life in the reader’s mind. This is just one example of an obvious attention to, and deep familiarity with, the craft of writing. The prose is free of clichés, muscular, lean, and, on occasion, it soars.
My one criticism might be the often abrupt shift in times, places, and points of view. It can be disorienting and confusing. But in order to tell the story, I can’t see any way to avoid it. The author puts her faith in the reader and shows her respect by carefully designating the time and location, and which character’s point of view we happen to be inhabiting in the chapter headings. She leaves it up to her audience to read with care, and doesn’t disrespect them by hand-feeding or info-dumping.
“Déjà vu” is a remarkable and gorgeously crafted debut novel. Ms. Janowsky solves the Rubik’s cube of how to blend science fiction, superhero, fantasy and romance genres seamlessly into a deeply satisfying story that won’t disappoint lovers of action, high-adventure or romance. She’s also done her readers the favor of publishing all three books in the series at once, rather than spreading them out, which is a big deal if, like me, you hesitate to invest your time in a series with no guarantee the author will finish it. I can’t wait to read the second book!
Ms. Janowsky shows herself to be a master of another genre as well: historical fiction. We move between such diverse times and places as a World War Two concentration camp, late 1930’s Brooklyn, contemporary Washington D.C., and ancient Sumeria. Well-researched and full of careful detail, the worlds she creates are fascinating and spring to life in the reader’s mind. This is just one example of an obvious attention to, and deep familiarity with, the craft of writing. The prose is free of clichés, muscular, lean, and, on occasion, it soars.
My one criticism might be the often abrupt shift in times, places, and points of view. It can be disorienting and confusing. But in order to tell the story, I can’t see any way to avoid it. The author puts her faith in the reader and shows her respect by carefully designating the time and location, and which character’s point of view we happen to be inhabiting in the chapter headings. She leaves it up to her audience to read with care, and doesn’t disrespect them by hand-feeding or info-dumping.
“Déjà vu” is a remarkable and gorgeously crafted debut novel. Ms. Janowsky solves the Rubik’s cube of how to blend science fiction, superhero, fantasy and romance genres seamlessly into a deeply satisfying story that won’t disappoint lovers of action, high-adventure or romance. She’s also done her readers the favor of publishing all three books in the series at once, rather than spreading them out, which is a big deal if, like me, you hesitate to invest your time in a series with no guarantee the author will finish it. I can’t wait to read the second book!
September 30, 2019
Interesting mashup
What if the Avengers had a Sumerian goddess instead of a Norse god? Add in some realistic PTSD and you’ve got something quite interesting. No actual Marvel characters but it has a very similar feeling. Worth the read.
What if the Avengers had a Sumerian goddess instead of a Norse god? Add in some realistic PTSD and you’ve got something quite interesting. No actual Marvel characters but it has a very similar feeling. Worth the read.
November 19, 2019
Any car guy (like me) has to have at least a small interest in history. It helps the appreciation of the vintage automobile to know about the era from which it came. I enjoyed the book and its historical references and will put book two on top of my "read next" pile.
Kudos, author!
Kudos, author!
March 28, 2019
A story with a creative blend of: Si-Fi, Marvel worthy superheroes, mystery, suspense, history, and love. Yes, I thoroughly enjoyed the story and the characters.
March 12, 2020
I highly recommend this story.
It touching and heartfelt. It gives the reader so much much and with so much depth . All around great read
It touching and heartfelt. It gives the reader so much much and with so much depth . All around great read
June 14, 2021
Not what I expected. However, loved all the action, suspense, plots twists and turns and so much more.
I highly recommend it.
Will read again.
I highly recommend it.
Will read again.
April 2, 2019
This story blends science fiction with fantasy as superheroes travel through centuries of time and action. Readers who enjoy violent action and erotic romances should enjoy this tale.
March 20, 2019
Keeps you in suspense
When I began reading the first few pages, I wondered where this story was taking me. As I continued to read, I became amazed by Janowsky's talent as an author. She has a great imagination. I will definitely be on the lookout for Book 2.
When I began reading the first few pages, I wondered where this story was taking me. As I continued to read, I became amazed by Janowsky's talent as an author. She has a great imagination. I will definitely be on the lookout for Book 2.
May 2, 2019
The Persistence of Memory Book 1: Déjà Vu plunges readers into an intriguing novel that is a blend of mystery, romance, suspense, supernatural, and thriller. Karen Janowsky captures and keeps readers’ attention from the first page all the way through to the last page. Locations vary from Germany to Yemen to the United States with the majority of the story taking place in Washington D.C.
This compelling story revolves around Daniel Hecht and Nina Asher, who are struggling with issues that affect their personal and professional lives. Imagine being used as an experimental subject for Nazi scientists, being transported through time to the future, facing the challenge of dealing with decades of memory loss, and no longer living your life as a sickly person but as one with an extraordinary physically enhanced body. This is exactly what has happened to Daniel, the team leader of a clandestine group of people with various superhuman abilities. However, Daniel is not the only one with memory issues. Imagine suffering from amnesia with no idea of your own identity or any memories of the past. This is the predicament Nina faces as she wonders what kind of person she was in the past. Both Nina and Daniel experience visions transporting them elsewhere, which are smoothly incorporated into the story.
Daniel’s team is tasked with recovering cultural artifacts, and Nina is hired as the archivist in support of the team’s mission. Nina and Daniel meet for the first time when Nina moves into the same apartment building where Daniel resides. A budding friendship slowly evolves into a romance. Will the relationship survive when Daniel finds out Nina’s true ancestry?
The prologue and each chapter are introduced with a title, brief quotation, timeframe, and location. The titles and epigraphs tie in beautifully with the chapters. Alternating perspectives between Daniel and Nina never confuse the reader because each scene is labeled with the viewpoint character. An excellent use of sensory details to describe the settings and characters enhance the visualization of the story in the reader’s mind. Janowsky has done a superb job of creating believable and memorable characters with their own distinct voices. Readers will connect with them and be invested in what happens to them.
Nazi horrors, superpowered people, mythical creatures, graphic assault scenes, Sumerian mythology, time-travel, eroticism, and sexual intimacy are incorporated into this well-researched novel. Janowsky has done a fantastic job of blending elements from different genres into a clever and unique story that will stay with readers long after they are done reading.
This compelling story revolves around Daniel Hecht and Nina Asher, who are struggling with issues that affect their personal and professional lives. Imagine being used as an experimental subject for Nazi scientists, being transported through time to the future, facing the challenge of dealing with decades of memory loss, and no longer living your life as a sickly person but as one with an extraordinary physically enhanced body. This is exactly what has happened to Daniel, the team leader of a clandestine group of people with various superhuman abilities. However, Daniel is not the only one with memory issues. Imagine suffering from amnesia with no idea of your own identity or any memories of the past. This is the predicament Nina faces as she wonders what kind of person she was in the past. Both Nina and Daniel experience visions transporting them elsewhere, which are smoothly incorporated into the story.
Daniel’s team is tasked with recovering cultural artifacts, and Nina is hired as the archivist in support of the team’s mission. Nina and Daniel meet for the first time when Nina moves into the same apartment building where Daniel resides. A budding friendship slowly evolves into a romance. Will the relationship survive when Daniel finds out Nina’s true ancestry?
The prologue and each chapter are introduced with a title, brief quotation, timeframe, and location. The titles and epigraphs tie in beautifully with the chapters. Alternating perspectives between Daniel and Nina never confuse the reader because each scene is labeled with the viewpoint character. An excellent use of sensory details to describe the settings and characters enhance the visualization of the story in the reader’s mind. Janowsky has done a superb job of creating believable and memorable characters with their own distinct voices. Readers will connect with them and be invested in what happens to them.
Nazi horrors, superpowered people, mythical creatures, graphic assault scenes, Sumerian mythology, time-travel, eroticism, and sexual intimacy are incorporated into this well-researched novel. Janowsky has done a fantastic job of blending elements from different genres into a clever and unique story that will stay with readers long after they are done reading.
August 10, 2019
Daniel is a sickly Jewish boy from the 30s turned modern-day super soldier named Lionheart. Nina is his strikingly beautiful upstairs neighbor with no memory of her past. From the time the two bump into each other in the hallway on the day that Nina moves in, the two are virtually inseparable. Not only do they live in the same building, but they work for the same superhero organization known as WISE.
Between Daniel’s assigned missions overseas, protecting Nina from leering men, and fighting off giant blue bugs with paralyzing stingers known as Beakers, the two spend all of their free time going out for morning jogs, sharing dinners, and watching baseball games on TV. Both are eager yet hesitant to grow their friendship into a full blown romance, despite urging from their super-powered teammates, but between saving the world, dealing with their past traumas, and overcoming their mutual shyness, the transition is anything but easy.
Still, there is a connection between the two that goes well beyond their first interaction in the hallway. As that connection is slowly revealed, both Daniel and Nina must come to terms with their past in order to pave the way toward a potential future.
Opinion:
Déjà Vu is book one in the three-book Persistence of Memory series. Think of it as a romance novel between Captain America and Wonder Woman. Each character is modeled after the famous superheroes that we all know from the movies and comics. It’s a love letter to this popular genre, much like a piece of fan fiction.
But Janowsky is careful to breathe as much originality into her story as possible. Her biggest strength is her ability to get deep inside the characters’ heads. However, this means drawing attention away from the fist punches and focusing primarily on the unfolding romance. She dives deep into the characters’ thoughts and feelings, revealing the motives behind their hesitations, flaws, and actions. As with most new romances, there is a lot of self-doubt, second guessing, and false starts, which slows the romance between Daniel and Nina to a “will they or won’t they” situation.
But the story itself never drags. Instead, the romance is a suspense builder interlaced with moments of traditional superhero action. The fight scenes are brutal and clearly written, no easy feat without comic book illustrations to accompany the text. The danger feels real in these sequences, despite the fact that the heroes are equipped with special abilities. Yet in novel form, there is room to explore how having these abilities affects these characters emotionally, physically, and mentally, and it gives them a vulnerability that makes them feel real and fragile.
The voices of each character are also distinct and flawed but likable. Everybody brings something to the table, and the team is a mix of various cultures, orientations, and personalities that tend to butt heads but are ultimately a close-knit and loyal group. The supporting players serve as comic relief, crucial back up, and even as therapists to the two struggling lead characters.
It’s also refreshing how Janowksy doesn’t lean on the fact that this book is the first in a series. This book tells a complete story without forcing the reader to stay tuned till the next episode. Instead, readers are tempted to pick up book 2 of their own free will to see where Daniel and Nina’s story is headed next.
I recommend this book to those who’d like to see the superhero genre merge with the romance genre to create a perfectly balanced story that blends the best of both of these worlds into its own unique subgenre.
Between Daniel’s assigned missions overseas, protecting Nina from leering men, and fighting off giant blue bugs with paralyzing stingers known as Beakers, the two spend all of their free time going out for morning jogs, sharing dinners, and watching baseball games on TV. Both are eager yet hesitant to grow their friendship into a full blown romance, despite urging from their super-powered teammates, but between saving the world, dealing with their past traumas, and overcoming their mutual shyness, the transition is anything but easy.
Still, there is a connection between the two that goes well beyond their first interaction in the hallway. As that connection is slowly revealed, both Daniel and Nina must come to terms with their past in order to pave the way toward a potential future.
Opinion:
Déjà Vu is book one in the three-book Persistence of Memory series. Think of it as a romance novel between Captain America and Wonder Woman. Each character is modeled after the famous superheroes that we all know from the movies and comics. It’s a love letter to this popular genre, much like a piece of fan fiction.
But Janowsky is careful to breathe as much originality into her story as possible. Her biggest strength is her ability to get deep inside the characters’ heads. However, this means drawing attention away from the fist punches and focusing primarily on the unfolding romance. She dives deep into the characters’ thoughts and feelings, revealing the motives behind their hesitations, flaws, and actions. As with most new romances, there is a lot of self-doubt, second guessing, and false starts, which slows the romance between Daniel and Nina to a “will they or won’t they” situation.
But the story itself never drags. Instead, the romance is a suspense builder interlaced with moments of traditional superhero action. The fight scenes are brutal and clearly written, no easy feat without comic book illustrations to accompany the text. The danger feels real in these sequences, despite the fact that the heroes are equipped with special abilities. Yet in novel form, there is room to explore how having these abilities affects these characters emotionally, physically, and mentally, and it gives them a vulnerability that makes them feel real and fragile.
The voices of each character are also distinct and flawed but likable. Everybody brings something to the table, and the team is a mix of various cultures, orientations, and personalities that tend to butt heads but are ultimately a close-knit and loyal group. The supporting players serve as comic relief, crucial back up, and even as therapists to the two struggling lead characters.
It’s also refreshing how Janowksy doesn’t lean on the fact that this book is the first in a series. This book tells a complete story without forcing the reader to stay tuned till the next episode. Instead, readers are tempted to pick up book 2 of their own free will to see where Daniel and Nina’s story is headed next.
I recommend this book to those who’d like to see the superhero genre merge with the romance genre to create a perfectly balanced story that blends the best of both of these worlds into its own unique subgenre.
April 1, 2019
How many times has it happened that we get a feeling of Déjà vu when we meet a person? Daniel and Nina are falling in love in a world full of supernatural elements, surrounded by paranormal activities and yet something in the back of their mind is keeping them apart.
Is there some history behind it or is it just Déjà vu?
Karen Janowsky has come up with a compelling story in the form of this book. I have long been a fan of Urban Fantasy and Paranormal Romance. It requires a certain mysticism for the book to be an enjoyable one and Karen has managed to write her way into the reader’s heart.
Daniel our main character is stuck in a different century than the one he belongs to. Still, being a war hero, there are some quirks that does not leave the nature of a character. Being the protagonist, he carried the entire book on his shoulder through a strong narrative and an appealing charm. After all, not everyone can manage to run a group of supernatural misfits.
The best part I liked about this book was that the superheroes were all complex characters with depth and a realistic storyline. They do not exist to just win over situation, but instead are often their own worst enemy.
The writing of this book is quite steamy, so yeah one should keep that in mind before picking it up. But I usually enjoy reading books written for adults because they explore sexuality very openly, and that is something to be appreciated.
The premise of this book keeps shifting from World War Two to the contemporary scenario, ancient Sumeria and then current Washington D.C. This kept the flow of the book from turning into a bore.
I also liked the prose which has been made to look effortless but I am sure, it took a lot of rewriting to get it close to the perfect draft.
“Now, Daniel understood that his loved ones were dead or dying, and that he was never going home, and it was because people insisted on loving him enough to risk sacrifice. Daniel understood at that moment that there was no God.”
“Daniel was spiraling into nothingness. Every time he opened his eyes, he remembered there was no point in doing so.”
I do have complaints with Nina’s character though. I thought that her character needed to evolve a little over the chapters and there was a lot of scope for her to become a strong character. I kept feeling that Daniel’s character was overshadowing hers throughout the book. But still, overall, I really enjoyed this book and I am looking forward to reading the second one in the series.
Is there some history behind it or is it just Déjà vu?
Karen Janowsky has come up with a compelling story in the form of this book. I have long been a fan of Urban Fantasy and Paranormal Romance. It requires a certain mysticism for the book to be an enjoyable one and Karen has managed to write her way into the reader’s heart.
Daniel our main character is stuck in a different century than the one he belongs to. Still, being a war hero, there are some quirks that does not leave the nature of a character. Being the protagonist, he carried the entire book on his shoulder through a strong narrative and an appealing charm. After all, not everyone can manage to run a group of supernatural misfits.
The best part I liked about this book was that the superheroes were all complex characters with depth and a realistic storyline. They do not exist to just win over situation, but instead are often their own worst enemy.
The writing of this book is quite steamy, so yeah one should keep that in mind before picking it up. But I usually enjoy reading books written for adults because they explore sexuality very openly, and that is something to be appreciated.
The premise of this book keeps shifting from World War Two to the contemporary scenario, ancient Sumeria and then current Washington D.C. This kept the flow of the book from turning into a bore.
I also liked the prose which has been made to look effortless but I am sure, it took a lot of rewriting to get it close to the perfect draft.
“Now, Daniel understood that his loved ones were dead or dying, and that he was never going home, and it was because people insisted on loving him enough to risk sacrifice. Daniel understood at that moment that there was no God.”
“Daniel was spiraling into nothingness. Every time he opened his eyes, he remembered there was no point in doing so.”
I do have complaints with Nina’s character though. I thought that her character needed to evolve a little over the chapters and there was a lot of scope for her to become a strong character. I kept feeling that Daniel’s character was overshadowing hers throughout the book. But still, overall, I really enjoyed this book and I am looking forward to reading the second one in the series.
March 29, 2020
The sweet nectar of the gods!
This is a beautifully painted story. Poetic, teasing, a slow burn but yet also action packed at the same time. What an original piece of work! I've never read a "super hero" book before and I put that in quotes because when I think of super heros I think of a Batman or Spiderman and this book does not feel at all like the typical superhero story, which means its WAY BETTER! Karen is a word craftsman! she really knows how to draw the scene in your mind. This book feels like it could be a major motion picture but if so PLEASE DON'T CHANGE A THING ABOUT IT!
The love story is a really slow build, but that is part of what makes it different. Most love stories don't take THAT long for the couple to even have their first kiss. But it was worth it! The ending was GREAT! My favorite scene was the condom buying scene! haha! Can't wait to read book 2!!!!
This is a beautifully painted story. Poetic, teasing, a slow burn but yet also action packed at the same time. What an original piece of work! I've never read a "super hero" book before and I put that in quotes because when I think of super heros I think of a Batman or Spiderman and this book does not feel at all like the typical superhero story, which means its WAY BETTER! Karen is a word craftsman! she really knows how to draw the scene in your mind. This book feels like it could be a major motion picture but if so PLEASE DON'T CHANGE A THING ABOUT IT!
The love story is a really slow build, but that is part of what makes it different. Most love stories don't take THAT long for the couple to even have their first kiss. But it was worth it! The ending was GREAT! My favorite scene was the condom buying scene! haha! Can't wait to read book 2!!!!
April 19, 2019
There’s certainly a lot going on in book one of Karen Janowsky’s new series.
The Persistence of Memory: Deja Vu is primarily a romance that includes superheroes and time travel and has mythological and science fiction elements. I believe many readers will find this book interesting and definitely different.
For my personal reading preferences, I felt some of the long passages of information slowed the story down. True, there is so much going on here, such information is vital, but overall, I found myself thinking that I could have enjoyed this book more if there had been a lot more showing and less telling. Some of the scenes really did seem to come alive, and I found myself wishing that the entire book could have been that way for me. Science fiction and superheroes are not usually my first choice in fiction, so that could explain some of my reactions.
The last few chapters of the book definitely flowed the smoothest, yet I wasn’t quite able to grasp a few things. Nina’s transformation for example. Without creating any spoilers, let me just say that it was my understanding that Nina’s desire and mission was to become more aligned with her old true self. But then she seemed to strive to go in the exact opposite direction. Also, after that totally out-of-character glimpse of Nina’s cold and uncaring alter-ego, I definitely understood why Daniel reacted the way that he did. But I couldn’t understand why his peers chastised him so much about it, or why he himself felt the need to continually apologize for reacting in a way that (to me) seemed perfectly rational. All right, maybe he could have handled it a bit differently, but still . . .
The happy ending didn’t seem all that rosy to me; I felt that the underlying problems were all masked and nothing was solved. I’m assuming this was intentional on the author’s part and that she’s planning to use those fundamental issues to create conflict in future volumes.
There were a couple of other situations where it looked to me as if the author was setting up conflicts to be used further on in the series. A sighting of a co-worker with another man in the park seemed like it had to be much more than just a glimpse into the man’s personal life. I feel there has to be more coming . . .
I definitely enjoyed the introduction of the stranger towards the end of the book but was surprised that Nina never mentioned this to Daniel. I felt it could have somehow been brought up again to wrap it up a bit for the conclusion of this book and add additional foreboding for the next. Instead, I felt the incident was just sort of left “hanging” out there. Then again, I guess that’s what series are often about. I did find that scene with the stranger especially intriguing. Sounds like more interesting conflicts are coming down the line . . .
I thought the author did a good job with the attempted rape scene. I certainly don’t want to say I “enjoyed” the scene, but it held my interest. As a reader, I can’t ask for much more.
The co-workers were good characters and very complimentary to the main characters. Despite some differences, all the team members seemed to be one big happy family. I always felt as if they had each other’s backs. Hopefully most of them will be around in the follow-up books.
Overall, the author did an excellent job with this first book in the series. I do believe this story would appeal to fans of superheroes, mythology and science fiction. Also, people who like hot romance should enjoy this book! This is definitely one of the most unique books I have read in a long time! The author has boundless imagination.
The Persistence of Memory: Deja Vu is primarily a romance that includes superheroes and time travel and has mythological and science fiction elements. I believe many readers will find this book interesting and definitely different.
For my personal reading preferences, I felt some of the long passages of information slowed the story down. True, there is so much going on here, such information is vital, but overall, I found myself thinking that I could have enjoyed this book more if there had been a lot more showing and less telling. Some of the scenes really did seem to come alive, and I found myself wishing that the entire book could have been that way for me. Science fiction and superheroes are not usually my first choice in fiction, so that could explain some of my reactions.
The last few chapters of the book definitely flowed the smoothest, yet I wasn’t quite able to grasp a few things. Nina’s transformation for example. Without creating any spoilers, let me just say that it was my understanding that Nina’s desire and mission was to become more aligned with her old true self. But then she seemed to strive to go in the exact opposite direction. Also, after that totally out-of-character glimpse of Nina’s cold and uncaring alter-ego, I definitely understood why Daniel reacted the way that he did. But I couldn’t understand why his peers chastised him so much about it, or why he himself felt the need to continually apologize for reacting in a way that (to me) seemed perfectly rational. All right, maybe he could have handled it a bit differently, but still . . .
The happy ending didn’t seem all that rosy to me; I felt that the underlying problems were all masked and nothing was solved. I’m assuming this was intentional on the author’s part and that she’s planning to use those fundamental issues to create conflict in future volumes.
There were a couple of other situations where it looked to me as if the author was setting up conflicts to be used further on in the series. A sighting of a co-worker with another man in the park seemed like it had to be much more than just a glimpse into the man’s personal life. I feel there has to be more coming . . .
I definitely enjoyed the introduction of the stranger towards the end of the book but was surprised that Nina never mentioned this to Daniel. I felt it could have somehow been brought up again to wrap it up a bit for the conclusion of this book and add additional foreboding for the next. Instead, I felt the incident was just sort of left “hanging” out there. Then again, I guess that’s what series are often about. I did find that scene with the stranger especially intriguing. Sounds like more interesting conflicts are coming down the line . . .
I thought the author did a good job with the attempted rape scene. I certainly don’t want to say I “enjoyed” the scene, but it held my interest. As a reader, I can’t ask for much more.
The co-workers were good characters and very complimentary to the main characters. Despite some differences, all the team members seemed to be one big happy family. I always felt as if they had each other’s backs. Hopefully most of them will be around in the follow-up books.
Overall, the author did an excellent job with this first book in the series. I do believe this story would appeal to fans of superheroes, mythology and science fiction. Also, people who like hot romance should enjoy this book! This is definitely one of the most unique books I have read in a long time! The author has boundless imagination.
May 16, 2019
It is difficult to figure out how to classify this book. While there are romantic elements, it's not strictly a romance. Some characters could be perceived as superheroes, with abilities like those we see in comic book movies. There are also elements of mythology, going back to the days of the worship of Ishtar and Inanna. Science fiction elements provide a backdrop and an ever-present danger.
Before I get too judgmental, I have to say that I liked the characters of Daniel and Nina. Both had gone through much in their lives before meeting, and they are grappling with the present while they try to figure out the future. So I enjoyed following their stories because they are empathetic characters. However, all levels of the story seem to meander with little purpose. They didn’t really come together or coalesce for me until far later in the story; if I weren’t a reviewer who was committed to finishing books promised, I most likely would have stopped reading, wondering, “What is the point of all this?” I wonder if that is because there are so many elements going on this book as I detailed in the first paragraph. It felt like the author couldn't do full justice to any aspect of the story. For instance, I'm a massive romance fan, and the cover with the silhouette of an embracing couple promised that. Instead, for the bulk of the book, Daniel and Nina have a hard time interacting beyond the level of awkward friends. Any time either one of them makes a bold move—and bold in this book means a touch or a statement—they think, overthink, mull over, obsess, doubt, believe they have no future, etc., over and over again Maddeningly slow; one step forward, five steps back. For two people who can be bold with others or when facing danger, their interactions between themselves come across as very weak. Even given their histories, would two people in the modern age act as reticent as they do for such a long time? They just seemed paralyzed by fear too often and became angst-ridden over the smallest of things.
With all these different plotlines going on, none could be given center stage for long, and the author wasn’t able to interweave the different aspects together into a coherent whole.
I received a free copy of this book, but it did not affect my review.
Read my other reviews at https://www.readingfanaticreview.com
Before I get too judgmental, I have to say that I liked the characters of Daniel and Nina. Both had gone through much in their lives before meeting, and they are grappling with the present while they try to figure out the future. So I enjoyed following their stories because they are empathetic characters. However, all levels of the story seem to meander with little purpose. They didn’t really come together or coalesce for me until far later in the story; if I weren’t a reviewer who was committed to finishing books promised, I most likely would have stopped reading, wondering, “What is the point of all this?” I wonder if that is because there are so many elements going on this book as I detailed in the first paragraph. It felt like the author couldn't do full justice to any aspect of the story. For instance, I'm a massive romance fan, and the cover with the silhouette of an embracing couple promised that. Instead, for the bulk of the book, Daniel and Nina have a hard time interacting beyond the level of awkward friends. Any time either one of them makes a bold move—and bold in this book means a touch or a statement—they think, overthink, mull over, obsess, doubt, believe they have no future, etc., over and over again Maddeningly slow; one step forward, five steps back. For two people who can be bold with others or when facing danger, their interactions between themselves come across as very weak. Even given their histories, would two people in the modern age act as reticent as they do for such a long time? They just seemed paralyzed by fear too often and became angst-ridden over the smallest of things.
With all these different plotlines going on, none could be given center stage for long, and the author wasn’t able to interweave the different aspects together into a coherent whole.
I received a free copy of this book, but it did not affect my review.
Read my other reviews at https://www.readingfanaticreview.com
February 22, 2020
We are thrown straight into ww2 Germany, where we are experiencing an attack by the nazis on civilians, thinking they were safe as Americans his family travelled to Germany seeking treatment for Daniel, our main character. However it ends in tragedy as his family are caught up in the attack.
We skip forward to the present where Daniel meets a young girl called Nina, they hit it off straight away but Nina admits that she has amnesia and knows nothing about her life. We learn about Daniels past as a holocaust survivor, as he says he is a ‘Ninety three year old scientific experiment gone wrong’.
We learn about what happened to him and how he was exploited by the Nazis and passed around from pillar to post as a advertisement for a stronger and better soldier, he was too broken to fight back so he did what he was told. He now works for WISE which is a research facility which collects soldiers with special abilities.
We are told the story from the viewpoints of both main characters, so we learn how they feel for each other as the story progresses, I liked this because they both seemed so vulnerable and insecure, it was nice to follow their confidence grow.
The love story is sweet and tentative with neither of them wanting to make the first move but both being absolutely struck by each other, it’s cute!
I did get confused with the constant attacks by different factions and when I first realised this was more of a ‘superhero’ book, the cover didn’t make sense, it doesn’t really come across as that genre.
After a huge twist about Ninas heritage we are left wondering where she will go from here and what could possibly happen next.
Enjoyable though confusingly fast paced read 👍🏼
We skip forward to the present where Daniel meets a young girl called Nina, they hit it off straight away but Nina admits that she has amnesia and knows nothing about her life. We learn about Daniels past as a holocaust survivor, as he says he is a ‘Ninety three year old scientific experiment gone wrong’.
We learn about what happened to him and how he was exploited by the Nazis and passed around from pillar to post as a advertisement for a stronger and better soldier, he was too broken to fight back so he did what he was told. He now works for WISE which is a research facility which collects soldiers with special abilities.
We are told the story from the viewpoints of both main characters, so we learn how they feel for each other as the story progresses, I liked this because they both seemed so vulnerable and insecure, it was nice to follow their confidence grow.
The love story is sweet and tentative with neither of them wanting to make the first move but both being absolutely struck by each other, it’s cute!
I did get confused with the constant attacks by different factions and when I first realised this was more of a ‘superhero’ book, the cover didn’t make sense, it doesn’t really come across as that genre.
After a huge twist about Ninas heritage we are left wondering where she will go from here and what could possibly happen next.
Enjoyable though confusingly fast paced read 👍🏼
May 14, 2019
Born into the early twentieth century, Daniel Hecht, Lionheart, the American war hero who is unable to escape his heroism even into the modern world, has no memory of several decades missing from his life. A stranger in his own body, he leads an underground group of superpower misfits in the twenty-first century. After a new recruit, Nina Asher who has no recollection of her past joins the group, Daniel finds himself strangely attracted to her. Before long, she becomes the target of a group of vicious creatures who want to unsettle the world. As she and Daniel work to unlock a cryptic, ancient myth, they experience strange flashbacks. To save the world, they must recollect the memories of their earlier lives. As they fall in love, Nina’s troubled past come to haunt them.
Readers will experience heightened tension in this first installment of the fantasy romance series as shocking mystery unfolds, leading to a heartfelt climax. Janowsky skilfully reveals the duo’s intricately complex attraction to each other, allowing their romance to develop with sensuality. With their human afflictions, the superheroes in the story have a tender side to them—Daniel’s humanity and vulnerability make him a compelling hero. Nina’s character has plenty of scope for further growth in the upcoming installment.
Though the fantasy elements form the basis of the plot, the book is heavy on feelings and subtle romance (heavy love-making stretches beyond a few pages as well) making it more of a romance read. Yearning and tender love dominate the story, turning the book into a melancholy, haunting read.
Readers will experience heightened tension in this first installment of the fantasy romance series as shocking mystery unfolds, leading to a heartfelt climax. Janowsky skilfully reveals the duo’s intricately complex attraction to each other, allowing their romance to develop with sensuality. With their human afflictions, the superheroes in the story have a tender side to them—Daniel’s humanity and vulnerability make him a compelling hero. Nina’s character has plenty of scope for further growth in the upcoming installment.
Though the fantasy elements form the basis of the plot, the book is heavy on feelings and subtle romance (heavy love-making stretches beyond a few pages as well) making it more of a romance read. Yearning and tender love dominate the story, turning the book into a melancholy, haunting read.
January 9, 2020
Very enjoyable book that combines some of the mythology from Rome and Ancient Greece into today's world. And in today's world there are a few individuals who possess extraordinary powers. Some powers are the result of made made technology, so the result of biological experiments, and some resulting from other circumstances. The main character is Daniel. He was a sickly Jewish boy in New York in the era preceding World War II. His mother wanted to badly for him to be better that she had heard of some treatments that he could get in Germany. After spending some time in Germany, the Germans raided the church where his family was attending service and his entire life changed. Some series of events later he awakened in the 21st century with the body of a 25 year old athlete. He can't seem to connect to the people of this new era until one day he meets his downstairs neighbor. Nina is just moving in. There is instant chemistry between them, but they feel as if they have known each other for many years. As their friendship and budding love for each other becomes stronger, the feeling that they have known each other for years also becomes stronger. This is a very good story with plenty of fun supporting characters and no shortage of villains. I look forward to reading the next book in this series!
May 6, 2019
I received this book in exchange for a review.
DNF @ 25%.
I feel so bad. This series sounded so good. Superhero from Nazi era put in the future + romance sounded like just the thing I needed to read. Unfortunately, I was bored through it. I tried to hold on but from 15% to 25%, I was dreading picking up the book and even found myself skimming it. I wasn’t a fan that 25 pages in, Daniel did a tell-all with Nina. They were strangers to each other, but soon she now knows everything about who he is and how he thinks he got there. I would have liked for this to unfold, for us and her, and keep a bit of mystery through the book. Based off the synopsis, I get that his secret isn’t the main plot, so maybe the author needed it out of the way; but I thought that revealing it all so soon in just wasn’t realistic.
The writing flows really nice though. I always get nervous when I read authors new to me, but it had a nice flow and tone and most importantly: was edited. So nothing against it. I just couldn’t get into the plot as much as I would have liked so. Since it’s for a review, i would have liked to complete it, but I just couldn’t push through anymore.
DNF @ 25%.
I feel so bad. This series sounded so good. Superhero from Nazi era put in the future + romance sounded like just the thing I needed to read. Unfortunately, I was bored through it. I tried to hold on but from 15% to 25%, I was dreading picking up the book and even found myself skimming it. I wasn’t a fan that 25 pages in, Daniel did a tell-all with Nina. They were strangers to each other, but soon she now knows everything about who he is and how he thinks he got there. I would have liked for this to unfold, for us and her, and keep a bit of mystery through the book. Based off the synopsis, I get that his secret isn’t the main plot, so maybe the author needed it out of the way; but I thought that revealing it all so soon in just wasn’t realistic.
The writing flows really nice though. I always get nervous when I read authors new to me, but it had a nice flow and tone and most importantly: was edited. So nothing against it. I just couldn’t get into the plot as much as I would have liked so. Since it’s for a review, i would have liked to complete it, but I just couldn’t push through anymore.
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