Tag Archives: Psy Changeling

Storm Echo by Nalini Singh – Review & Excerpt

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Storm Echo by Nalini Singh – Review & Excerpt

 

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Description:
Silence has fallen. The Psy are free to feel emotion. Free to love. But Silence was never a prison for Ivan Mercant. The biggest threat to his future lies dormant in his brain—a psychic monster that wants only to feed. And now, the brutal leash he’s kept on that monster is slipping. He prepared for this day, for the end of Ivan Mercant . . . but that was before he met Lei.

As primal as she is human, this wild changeling brings color into his life, laughter to his soul. Then the dream shatters in a rain of blood, in silent bodies in the snow. Lei is gone. Vanished without a trace . . . until he meets strangely familiar eyes across a busy San Francisco street.

Soleil Bijoux Garcia is a healer who has lost everything. She exists in a world of desolate aloneness . . . till the day she finds herself face-to-face with a lethal stranger. The animal who is her other half knows this man, but her memories are tattered fragments. Sorrow and a need for vengeance are all that drive her. Her mission? To kill the alpha of the DarkRiver leopard pack.

But fate has other plans. Soon, a deadly soldier who believes himself a monster and a broken healer might be all that stand between life and death for the entire Psy race.

 

 

Review:

Storm Echo by Nalini Singh is the 6th book in her wonderful Psy-Changeling Trinity series.  Nalini Singh continues to be one of my must read go to authors, always loving her Pys-Changeling and Guild Hunter series.  She never fails to give us fantastic stories, great couples and fabulous secondary characters; not to mention her amazing ability to make sure her continued world building is totally flawless.

Ivan Mercant, our hero, is the Mercant family security expert. Ivan considers himself dangerous, with an abnormal brain, able to go deep into the PsyNet with fears of losing control. When Ivan attends training sessions, he meets a young woman, who gives him strange vibes that he has never experienced.

Soleil Bijoux Garcia (Lei), our heroine & a healer, accidently runs into Ivan in the woods, and they both enjoy each other’s company. Lei is an ocelot, whose shifting side recognizes Ivan as their mate.  Even though it has been a short time they have known each other, Ivan finds himself becoming obsessed with Lei. When she doesn’t show up one day, he begins a search and finds a massacre at her pack, and Ivan tries to save her life, but the healers and medics arrive.  He uses all his powers to find Lei, but gives up after time; until one day almost a year later, he recognizes her.

Lei doesn’t remember Ivan, as she is hell bent on visiting Dark River (Leopard pack) to kill Lucas, since she felt he murdered her pack.  Slowly, her Ocelot recognizes Ivan, and she starts to remember some of her memories.  Ivan immediately goes into protector mode, and our wonderful Dark River healer, Tamsyn will help Lei, who will learn quickly that Lucas did not murder her pack, instead he saved most of the survivors, making them members of their pack.  At first Dark River, was not happy to have Ivan with Lei within their territory, but Lucas can see a bond, and in a short time, their relationship will heat up.  Lucas allows her to become a member of Dark River, knowing Ivan will stay with her. 

The bond between Lei and Ivan was wonderful to watch, especially the ocelot side, who was demanding.  Slowly, Lei and Ivan will succumb to their feelings, with her helping Ivan deal with the unknown physical intimacy; fully trusting her. I really loved them both together. 

What follows is an exciting, suspenseful, intriguing and action-packed story that kept me glued to my kindle, unable to put the book down. Storm Echo was an emotional love story of two damaged people, with a bond that will bring them totally together.  Ivan was able to use his ability to go deep into the PsyNet, with Lei able to monitor him, as he discovers how everything is falling apart, due to the Scarab Queen. Will Ivan be able to survive? Can he find a way to stop the evil Scarab Queen?. 

I also loved seeing many of our previous heroes, such as Lucas, Kaleb, Ena, Tamsyn, Nate, Mercy, Canto, Arden, etc.   Storm Echo was so very well written by Nalini Singh, which has always been the norm. She never fails to captivate me with her engaging creative stories, fantastic plots, and seamless world building; wonderful couples in each and every story; super secondary characters and fantastic world-building.   I loved every moment of Storm Echo.  As I have noted many times, if you have not read Nalini Singh, you are missing a gem of an author.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

 


                                Chapter 1

The child has severe attachment issues. It is not Silence. He is simply psychologically damaged to the extent that he may never be able to form an attachment to another on any level. As such, his loyalty to the family cannot be guaranteed. He is a risk.

-Private PsyMed report on Ivan Mercant, age 8 (20 June 2059)

3 May 2083

In terms of age, Ivan fell in the older cadre of Ena’s grandchildren. Younger than Canto, older than Silver and Arwen. He’d also always been the one who gave the family the least trouble-no trouble at all really. Canto was as stubborn as a bull and Silver had a steely spine, and neither ever bent for Ena unless they wished to do so.

As for Arwen, gentle, empathic Arwen could be obstinate in his own way. Like water running over stone. Slow and persistent until the edges of the rock were no longer so sharp and the water had carved a new channel without the rock ever being aware of the change.

Ivan, in contrast, was more wont to say yes than no. Ask any of the other three and they’d never use the words “obstinate” or “stubborn” in relation to Ivan. One of the teenage members of the family had used the term “chill” to describe Ivan, and when Ena had looked up what that term meant when used in that context, she’d had to agree.

Ivan flowed through life, willing to bend, never opposing Ena . . . and still doing exactly what he wanted and nothing else. It had taken a long time for Ena to realize that the least openly stubborn of her grandchildren was also the most relentless in his quiet will. It was Ivan, after all, who’d never studied at the tertiary level, despite Ena’s strong desire that he do so; and it was Ivan who’d chosen to walk a path she’d initially forbidden him from pursuing.

Ivan did as he pleased . . . but he did have one vulnerability.

“Ivan?” she said now, as she watched him pack the final items for his journey to San Francisco. She rarely intruded in the suite he kept at the family compound, but with him leaving today, it was well past time to have this conversation. “Is all well?”

“Of course, Grandmother.” He unzipped a side pocket of his holdall, then reached for a small and flat black bag that could contain either his toothbrush and soap-or a weapon.

There was no way to know when it came to Ivan.

“Are you certain?” She remained in the doorway, for she would not push into the private area of his bedroom-though she knew Ivan wouldn’t rebuff her. That was the problem, and why she asked so little from him. Because Ivan would give it to her. He went his own way when it came to his life and the choices he made, but should Ena ever request he do a task, he’d do so without hesitation.

Whether it was to put a bullet in someone’s head or to allow her in his space.

That was Ivan’s only vulnerability.

From STORM ECHO published by arrangement with Berkley, an imprint of Penguin Random House LLC. Copyright © 2022 by Nalini Singh.


 

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Alpha Night by Nalini Singh – a Review

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Alpha Night by Nalini Singh – a Review

 

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Description:
Alpha wolf Selenka Durev’s devotion to her pack is equaled only by her anger at anyone who would harm those under her care. That currently includes the empaths who’ve flowed into her city for a symposium that is a security nightmare, a powder keg just waiting for a match.

Ethan Night is an Arrow who isn’t an Arrow. Numb and disengaged from the world, he’s loyal only to himself. Assigned as part of the security force at a world-first symposium, he carries a dark agenda tied to the power-hungry and murderous Consortium. Then violence erupts and Ethan finds himself crashing into the heart and soul of an alpha wolf.

Mating at first sight is a myth, a fairytale. Yet Selenka’s wolf is resolute: Ethan Night, broken Arrow and a man capable of obsessive devotion, is the mate it has chosen. Even if the mating bond is full of static and not quite as it should be. Because Selenka’s new mate has a terrible secret, his mind surging with a power that is a creature of madness and death…

 

 

Review:

Alpha Night by Nalini Singh is the 4th book in her wonderful Psy-Changeling Trinity series.  I can’t say enough about Nalini Singh.  She has become my go to author, as I love her Psy-Changeling and Guild Hunter series.   She never fails to give us a sensational story, wonderful characters, and each book continues to flow seamlessly.  No one does world building so smoothly and flawlessly better than Nalini Singh.   Once again, in Alpha Night, Nalini has created a masterpiece that grabs hold of me and never ever let’s go until the very end. 

Alpha Night takes us back to Russia and the BlackEdge wolf pack, with Selenka Durev as our heroine and alpha of BlackEdge.  Selenka is somewhat on edge, as she is one of the hosts of the first world symposium, causing a bit of chaos with so many former Psy and empaths.  Violence erupts as an attack from an unknown source threatens.  Ethan Night, our hero, and Arrow, comes to the rescue, killing an E to stop the attack.  When Selenka approaches Ethan, the two of them are both thrown for a shock, as they immediately feel the mating bond; an Arrow and Alpha wolf; an unusual bond.  Another attacker attempts to kill Ethan, but he manages to stop the culprit. 

Selenka is a powerful and strong leader and dangerous wolf, but she is loyal to her pack, who adore her.   Ethan automatically begins to see color, but fears that he is damaged and a killer; but he is drawn to the beautiful Selenka, and promises his loyalty to her.  He is the Knight to her Queen.

What follows is an exciting, suspenseful, intriguing and action-packed story that kept me glued to the book, unable to put it down. Nalini has a way of creating such wonderful secondary characters, and I loved all of Selenka’s pack members.  Selenka, who is powerful, tough and totally in control, must deal with the murder of one of her own, and find out who betrayed them? Ethan works with Aden and Kaleb to try to stop the destruction on the Psy Net, and discover who is doing this.  Who is the evil Architect?

Besides all the tense excitements, Alpha Night is also a beautiful romance between two unlikely people, with so much chemistry between them that sizzles the pages.  I loved Selenka and Ethan together, as they made such a wonderful loving couple.  Selenka was a fantastic heroine, who was also our first female Alpha, and a great one, as was strong, independent, savvy, loving and loyal to those she loved.

Selenka, though very much in love with Ethan,  knows he is convinced that he is a killer, and the time together could be short if he turns rogue.  Ethan was a damaged but great hero, who was very protective of Selenka.  This was a wonderful romance, with so many sweet, emotional and tense moments; especially when Ethan realizes how strong his love is for Selenka. Once again, an awesome romance and awesome couple.  I loved seeing many of our favorites, such as Sascha; Ivy, Aden, Kaleb, Abbot, Silver/Valentin, and Alexei/Memory and even briefly, Lucas.    

I can’t say enough about Nalini Singh, as I have said over and  over, she is my go-to author, who never fails to captivate me with her engaging creative stories, fantastic plots, and seamless world building; wonderful couples in each and every story; super secondary characters and fantastic world-building.   I loved every moment of Alpha Night.  I have said this so many times, if you have not read Nalini Singh, you are missing such a gem of an author.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

 

 

 

 

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Wolf Rain by Nalini Singh – Review & Giveaway

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Wolf Rain by Nalini Singh – Review & Giveaway

 

 

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Description:
The end of Silence was supposed to create a better world for future generations. But trust is broken, and the alliance between Psy, Changeling, and human is thin. The problems that led to Silence are back in full force. Because Silence fixed nothing, just hid the problems.

This time, the Psy have to find a real answer to their problems–if one exists. Or their race will soon go extinct in a cascade of violence. The answer begins with an empath who is attuned to monsters–and who is going to charm a wolf into loving her despite his own demons.

 

 

Review:

Wolf Rain by Nalini Singh is the 18th book in her Psy-Changeling series, and the 3rd book in her Trinity arc.  As I have said numerous times, Nalini Singh is one of my top favorite authors, as I love the Psy-Changeling series, her spinoff Trinity series, and of course, her Guild Hunter series.  No one does world building so smoothly and flawlessly better than Nalini Singh.   Once again, in Wolf Rain she has created a masterpiece that grabs hold of me and never ever let’s go until the very end.  Unfortunately, as I get closer to the end of this exciting pulse pounding and enjoyable story, I tend to read too fast, but it is always great to go back and reread it as I can savor it slowly. 

I was thrilled to see this story brings us back to our wonderful Snow Dancer wolf pack, as we met our hero, Alexei Harte, who is a Lieutenant for Snow Dancer,  at the start.  Alexei is still grieving the death of his brother a year ago, and running as his wolf to release the tension.  Along the way, he senses someone also grieving, and finds his way into a cave.

Memory, our heroine, has been confined since she was 8 years old, and has been a prisoner of darkness to a powerful Psy teleporter for 15 years.  Memory is unconsciously sending out her grief to losing her cat, who was her only consolation all those years.   Enter Alexei to the rescue.

Alexei was so sweet to Memory, slowly teaching her about his pack, and her making friends, as she never had before.  I enjoyed how much she enjoyed seeing Alexei change to a wolf, as well as her watching other pack pups.  Memory will learn how strong she is an Empath, and those from Snow Dancer, Dark River, and other psy/changelings will help her along the way.  Memory, though still being hunted by the man who kidnapped her, was an amazing heroine, whose ability will be recognized to help the major players of the Psy Net find a way to save it.  

Though Memory slowly began to fit in, and begin to enjoy her life; Alexei also had his own past issues.  Both his brother and father turned rogue, and Alexei was stubborn in not wanting to mate with Memory, as he feared he too would turn and hurt her.

Wolf Rain was very suspenseful and intriguing, as we learn more about the slow unraveling of the Psy Net and the Empaths, who in the past were cast aside.  We also learn more about Memory, and her ability to work with the council.

What follows is a beautiful romance between two unlikely people, with so much chemistry between them that sizzles the pages.  I loved Memory and Alexei together, as they made such a wonderful loving couple.  Memory was a fantastic heroine, who despite her years imprisoned, was strong, independent, savvy and determined to rise up to her destiny.  She is very much in love with Alexei, though knowing he is holding back from mating with her due to his worry of going rogue.  Alexei was a great hero, who was very protective of Memory.  This was a wonderful romance, with so many sweet, fun, emotional and tense moments; especially when Alexei realizes how strong his love is for Memory.  Once again, an awesome romance and awesome couple.

I loved seeing many of our favorites, including Sasha, who had a big part, as well as Hawke, Mercy, Amara, Jaya, Judd, Kaleb, Aden, Lucas just to name a few.   I loved every moment of this book.

I can’t say enough about Nalini Singh, as she is my go-to author, who never fails to captivate me with her engaging creative stories, fantastic plots, and seamless world building; wonderful couples in each and every story; super secondary characters and fantastic world-building.   I have said this so many times, if you have not read Nalini Singh, you are missing such a gem of an author.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

 


Nalini’s publisher, Berkley, is offering a paper copy of WOLF RAIN to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe

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Silver Silence by Nalini Singh – Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

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Silver Silence by Nalini Singh – Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

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Silver Silence
Psy-Changeling Trinity series
by Nalini Singh
Release Date: June 13, 2017

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Description:
Control. Precision. Family. These are the principles that drive Silver Mercant. At a time when the fledgling Trinity Accord seeks to unite a divided world, with Silver playing a crucial role as director of a worldwide emergency response network, wildness and chaos are the last things she needs in her life. But that’s exactly what Valentin Nikolaev, alpha of the StoneWater Bears, brings with him.

Valentin has never met a more fascinating woman. Though Silver is ruled by Silence—her mind clear of all emotion—Valentin senses a whisper of fire around her. That’s what keeps him climbing apartment buildings to be near her. But when a shadow assassin almost succeeds in poisoning Silver, the stakes become deadly serious…and Silver finds herself in the heart of a powerful bear clan.

Her would-be assassin has no idea what their poison has unleashed…

 

 

Review:

Silver Silence by Nalini Singh was another fantastic read in her Psy/Changeling series, which is now in a 2nd arc,Psy/Changeling Trinity.  Upon completing the book, I was thrilled to feel that though we have newer characters, the main element of Changelings , Psy and Humans remains and thus we have many more super stories to come in this fabulous world. 

In Silver Silence, which takes place in Moscow, Silver Mercant is our heroine, and a Psy. Silver, is a stone cold psy, still ruled by Silence, and is the heir apparent leader of the Mercant family; the director of the new EmNet (worldwide emergency response network), and she works for Kaleb Krychek. 

Valentin Nikolaev, our hero, is a bear changeling and the alpha of the Stonewater Bears. Valentin is obsessed with Silver, and is determined to find a way to get her to feel something for him.  When he makes an appearance at her home, bringing business papers, she collapses.  Valentin will get immediate help and in the process will save Silver’s life.

Between Silver’s grandmother, Valentin and Kaleb, the decision is made to protect Silver, who was poisoned, and help her recuperate by going to Denhome,  Valentin’s territory with the bears.  They will protect her with their lives, especially Valentin, and the Mercants will investigate who is behind the attempt on Silver’s life.

What follows is the continuing of the war dividing the peace accord between Changelings/Psy and Humans.  There are two factions (Consortium-HAPMA) that threaten the peace accord (Alliance, Trinity Accord, EmNet), trying to kill those deemed important to the structure , such as Silver and/or Humans willing to work with the Trinity accord. Singh’s  complex and fantastic world building gives us more to comprehend in this intriguing world that we have come to love.  What makes this story so good is watching Silver begin to feel emotions, and finds herself falling for Valentin.  This was such a beautiful romance between two people so different, and yet so right. 

I loved Valentin; he was fun, sweet, protective, and determined to win her love.  He was the perfect person to slowly open up Silver to a different world.  I loved how the Stonewater Bears opened their arms to Silver, accepting her, and in time, she learns to accept and enjoy living among them. I also enjoyed getting to know Silver’s grandmother, the current powerful leader of the Mercants.  As for Silver, what an awesome heroine; I loved loved Silver, as she was tough, smart, powerful, and a true leader.  It was so emotional  to watch her cope with her feelings that began to surface. Once again, an awesome romance, with an awesome couple.

But just when our couple have found the impossible, their happiness is short lived, as things do go wrong, which brings Silver back to the emotionless life she had before.  Will she find a way to love Valentin or will she go fully back to Silence?

I have said this before, and will do so again.  Nalini Singh has become my go to author and in every single book she writes in her Psy/Changeling and Guild Hunter series, her stories never fails to captivate me; hold my interest from start to finish; giving us such wonderful characters, including the awesome couples and fantastic world-building.  I am totally in awe how Nalini can constantly create such perfection.  Bravo to Nalini Singh.  If you have not read the Psy/Changeling series (both arcs), you are seriously missing a great series and a fantastic author.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

 

excerpt

 

“Laughing at the cubs’ antics, Valentin jogged down the slight incline and waded into what had to be ice-cold water after kicking off his boots and socks. He splashed the cubs, laughed when they splashed him back. Running so they could chase him, he turned abruptly and chased them back, to their unhidden joy.
Silver took a seat on the grass. When the female bear looked her way, she inclined her head in a silent greeting. The bear did the same, then they both watched an alpha bear play with two energetic cubs, his hands holding rough care for their small bodies.
By the time Valentin made his way back to her, he was drenched and his eyes weren’t human in any way. When he spoke, his already deep voice was so low it felt like thunder against her skin. “Couldn’t resist,” he said, pushing back his wet hair with one big hand. “If you weren’t in recovery and if I wasn’t in terror of Nova’s wrath, I’d have invited you. The small monsters wanted to play with you.”
Silver didn’t get to her feet. “Can we stay here a little longer?” It was patent that Valentin had an extremely high tolerance for the cold, but he might want to dry off.
“Sure,” he said, and, moving away several feet, shook off the wet.
Fine droplets settled on the skin of her cheek, but she didn’t flinch at the unintentional tactile contact. She also controlled her urge to reach up and touch the water where it lay against her skin. There was no reason to do that, and Silver was alive because she only did things that were rational.
Settling beside her, Valentin waved at the cubs as their guardian led their tired forms toward a path in the trees that was at the same level as the stream. “Gentler climb,” Valentin told her.
“They seem too exhausted to make it to Denhome.”
“It’s all an act—they’re hoping for a ride on their aunt’s back.” His tone held the same fond affection she’d heard when he spoke of Dima. “It’d take more than a few minutes’ play in the water to wipe out those two.”
The cubs had played with Valentin for almost a half hour. “They’re hyperactive?”
“They’re baby bears.”
Silver watched as those baby bears turned toward her and rose up on their back paws, as if in challenge. A stern sound from their caretaker, and they dropped down and scrambled to catch up with her. Their bodies disappeared into the trees as dusk began to turn from orange to shadowy gray.
Beside her, Valentin sprawled out, bracing himself on his elbows. His drenched T-shirt clung to the ridged muscles of his abdomen, pulled tight across his pectoral muscles, shaped itself over his shoulders. His jeans weren’t much better, outlining the raw muscle of his thighs.
Valentin Nikolaev was a man of violent physical strength even in human form. Yet he clearly had iron control over it; when he’d played with the children, they’d displayed zero fear of their alpha.
“You thought about where you’re going to live when you escape the bears who’ve kidnapped you?”
When she raised an eyebrow at him, he grinned. “Fringe netter with his own Internet channel sent out a breaking report last night. Pasha—who obviously needs more work duties—made up a fake account and posted a comment swearing to have seen you being pulled into a black van by six burly bears in bear form.”
“You don’t seem too concerned.” Amber eyes and deep voice, he remained very much a bear in human form.
“Well, according to this ‘eyewitness,’ the getaway driver was in bear form, too. Must’ve been tough for him to steer with one paw since he was drinking a beer at the same time.”
“Bears,” Silver said, making Valentin throw his head back and laugh that huge laugh that wrapped around her.


Posted by arrangement with Berkley, a member of Penguin Group (USA) LLC, A Penguin Random House Company. Copyright © Nalini Singh, 2017. 

 

About the author
Nalini Singh
I was born in Fiji and raised in New Zealand. I spent three years living and working in Japan, where I took the chance to travel around Asia. I’m back in New Zealand now, but I’m always plotting new trips. If you’d like to see some of my travel snapshots, have a look at the Travel Diary page.

I’ve worked as a lawyer, a librarian, a candy factory general hand, a bank temp and an English teacher, but not necessarily in that order. Some might call that inconsistency, but I call it grist for the writer’s mill.

I’ve been writing for as long as I can remember. All of my stories held a thread of romance, even when I was writing about a prince who could shoot lasers out of his eyes. Creating unique characters and giving them happy endings is my favorite thing. I even love the voices in my head, so there’s no other job I’d rather be doing. When I got the call in September 2002 that Silhouette Desire wanted to buy my first book, Desert Warrior, it was a dream come true. I hope to continue living the dream until I keel over of old age on my keyboard.

To learn more about Nalini Singh, you can follow her on the following links:
Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

 

giveaway

Nalini’s publisher is offering a hard copy of SILVER SILENCE to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe

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Shards of Hope by Nalini Singh – Dual Review, Catching Up Interview, & Giveaway

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Shards of Hope by Nalini Singh – Dual Review, Catching Up Interview, & Giveaway

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Shards of Hope
Psy-Changeling #14
by Nalini Singh
Genre: adult, paranormal, romance
Release Date: June 2,2015

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 Shards of Hope June 2015

Description:
Awakening wounded in a darkened cell, their psychic abilities blocked, Aden and Zaira know they must escape. But when the lethal soldiers break free from their mysterious prison, they find themselves in a harsh, inhospitable landscape far from civilization. Their only hope for survival is to make it to the hidden home of a predatory changeling pack that doesn’t welcome outsiders.

And they must survive. A shadowy enemy has put a target on the back of the Arrow squad, an enemy that cannot be permitted to succeed in its deadly campaign. Aden will cross any line to keep his people safe for this new future, where even an assassin might have hope of a life beyond blood and death and pain. Zaira has no such hope. She knows she’s too damaged to return from the abyss. Her driving goal is to protect Aden, protect the only person who has ever come back for her no matter what.

This time, even Aden’s passionate determination may not be enough—because the emotionless chill of Silence existed for a reason. For the violent, and the insane, and the irreparably broken…like Zaira.

 

 

Barb’s Review:

Shards of Hope by Nalini Singh is the 14th book in her fantastic Psy-Changeling series. I have said this before, and will say it again. Nalini Singh is one of my top favorite authors. In every series, she gives us great exciting and romantic stories, with fantastic world building that flows so flawlessly into the next book. She never fails to give us a wonderful story that we wait patiently for, devour it, amazes us and then we mourn having to wait a year for the next book in the series. The good news is that Nalini has other series that helps us pass the waiting period.

In Shards of Hope, Aden is our hero; and we have been waiting for his story for a long time. In the last book, Aden’s best friend Vasic found his mate in Ivy. Now it’s Aden’s turn to find and feel true love with Zaira, one of his Arrow lieutenants. I loved Aden, but Zaira was the surprise, as she turned out to be such a flawed, tough, but wonderful heroine.

As the story begins, with the loss of Silence, there continues to be chaos, confusion and danger among the Psy. Both Aden and Zaira have been kidnapped, with their psychic abilities blocked, taking away their ability to contact others for help. They have very little time to find a way to escape before they will be killed. When they do get free, they find themselves in the wilderness of an unknown area, and with both having severe injuries time is running out. Help will come in the form of a changeling pack that does not welcome outsiders. This is where Nalini introduces us to a new pack, as well as later on with another one. The worldbuilding just keeps on going, and opens the door for more changelings that perhaps we will meet again in the future.

As Aden and Zaira recover from their injuries, they must alert the Arrows that an unknown enemy is targeting them, the other councils and the changelings with various types of attempts directed to create havoc and dissention among them. What follows is an intense, exciting adventure that will change the game bringing former enemies together to discover the dangerous enemy and the betrayers who are out to destroy them.

But most of all, this is the wonderful romance that builds between Aden and Zaira, both dangerous Arrows who have lived violent lives in Silence with no feelings. Aden slowly has begun to open himself up, especially seeing the change in Vasic. Zaira however is badly damaged, unable to cope with her horrid childhood and the rage that drives her. She is tough, fierce, dangerous, and loyal to the Arrows and their leader, Aden. Zaira will protect Aden at any cost, but it is Aden’s persistence to force her to see the good inside her that will slowly open the door to taste life with feelings. Aden knows he cares very much for Zaira, and allows his feelings to rise, showing her how to learn to feel. It was so beautiful to see Zaira opening up to care for Aden, other than just to protect him, and so hard to watch the rage in her rise up and take control again. Will Zaira be able to live without Silence? Will she be able to control her violent rages? Will Aden be able to teach Zaira to love and feel?

Shards of Hope was a great adventure, extremely exciting, emotional, edge of your seat suspense, and two very strong characters who had no hope to live any kind of normal life. Nalini Singh continues to add on to her fantastic world building and surprise us even more, as she moves the series into the direction that will open things up for more.   If you have not read this series, you are missing one of the best. Again, I will say that I never want this series to end…never.


Miranda’s Review

Shards of Hope, written by Nalini Singh; is the 14th installment in the widely popular Psy-Changeling‘s series.  It is difficult to articulate the satisfaction I feel as a reader upon completion of this novel.  Ms. Singh continues to dazzle with her phenomenal imagination, and unparalleled characterization.  Shards of Hope is a stunning exploration of the Psy-Changeling World; post Silence, and is an incredible culmination to the Story Arc we have received from this author, thus far. Full of twists, and turns that will keep you guessing until the very end.  Time after time, book after book; Nalini Singh has proven herself a master at teasing us with tantalizing secrets, and weaving webs of mystery.  

I will begin by stating that each couple, and storyline we receive, compels a new reaction within me.  It is difficult to put into words the magic that is conjured, when reading this series.  A magic I believe one must experience, in order to understand.  It is as though Ms. Singh can shift skin as an author, every bit as effortlessly as the Changelings she created.  Ever materializing into something greater, and more profound.  With each unique journey, we are transported, and fully immersed, traveling farther than we could have thought possible.  Oft times it feels as though two Worlds exist into this one realm, that is like no other in Fiction.  In one of these parraels, we travel alongside the wild Changelings.  Readers can expect an explosion of warmth, and color.  Vibrant textures, and sound.  In contrast, the mood following the controlled Psy; is cold, and dark.  Subdued, and veiled in darkness.   

While a large majority of fans seem to gravitate towards the vibrancy of a Changeling point of view, it is seeing through the eyes of a Psy; that affects me more as a reader.  I have many favorite Changeling characters, and appreciate each book for what it is individually….yet the Psy devastate my heart, and drag emotion out of me in ways I have never before experienced with any other book or series.  There is just something about the multiple faucets that compile this race, as they struggle to break the chains cast upon them.  Powerful…deadly.  Brutalized as children, and forced to extinguish all emotion.  It is incredible to read the wonder, and near innocence of their exploration of the World.  A World where previously they only existed.  It moves me beyond words at times, witnessing each Psy Character learn to live.  As the pages turn, we gradually see the dark, shadowy canvas of the Psy World, morph into a rainbow of color every bit as brilliant, as their Changeling counterparts.        

In regards to this particular installment, I immensely enjoyed the dynamic between the hero, and heroine.  I loved how these two phenomenal characters; changed the game on us.  Historically; we have seen the women as the beacon of light, shining in the dark for the men.  In Shards of Hope, Ms. Singh presents readers with a Psy female who considers herself broken.  Pairing her with a Psy male who possesses a core of strength as stable, dependable, and immoveable as a mountain.  With Zaira and Aden, we discover a tangible, unbreakable bond of loyalty, commitment, and trust.  One that began as children, and continued into adulthood.  Rarely do we find a couple that has seen each other through nearly all stages of life.  Zaira in my opinion, is one of the most finely crafted, layered female leads of this series.  A woman who long ago accepted the damaged side of her psyche.  In fact, she has embraced it.  Utilizing her nature, in order to hone her skills as a soldier, and best ensure survival.  Zaira makes no excuses, or apologies for who she is, or what she has done.  Love her or hate her, Zaira simply is.  And her sheer, single minded drive to protect Adenat all costs, endeared her to me right away. 
 
And finally I am brought to Aden.  Our seemingly less than spectacular hero.  I always, always enjoyed him as a side character.  However, if you would have asked me several books ago if I thought him a strong enough presence to be the lead male in his own book, I would have said a resounding no.  The obscure, vague, shrouded scenes he was part of throughout the later books in the series, just didnt project that vibe for me.  Little did we know, that the Author created this illusion purposely.  Little did we know that Aden has made it his goal in life, to appear weak.  Clearly, he was meant to fly under a readers radar.  I can assure you that in Shards of Hope–he will smack you in the face with a ginormous blip!  Not only is he 100% strong enough as a character to drive this book forward, but it is made blatantly clear that Aden has an intregal value to his people, and to this entire series.  Aden Kai is truly a force to behold, and everything a reader could hope for, in a hero of a story.  Deserving so, so much more credit than I am providing, but I will only elaborate with this…. 

Book after book we have wondered at his “gifts”.  The scene with which we finally, fully understand the truth about the leader of the elite Arrow Squad…gives. Me. Chills.  

Fans of this series will NOT be disappointed on any level.  Cameos featuring beloved previous characters abound, and we even meet a few new friends along the way.  Fantastic news for those like me who NEVER want to see the finale of this series! What else can I say? I cannot get enough of Ms. Singh’s writing, and I cannot wait to see where she takes us next!     

 

Copy provided by Publisher

 

Interview-Gold

Welcome back, Nalini. Thank you for taking the time to revisit us at The Reading Cafe, to discuss your new release Shards of Hope, as well as to give us an update as to what you have in store for us in 2015/2016.

Nalini: It’s lovely to be back. 🙂

TRC:  You have just released the 14th book in your Psy/Changeling series. For those who may not have read this series, would you please give us a brief description of the premise of the series?

Nalini: The Psy-Changeling series is set in a world very like our own, except that it is peopled by three races: The Psy, who have conditioned all emotion out of themselves in an effort to fight the insanity and violence that is the flipside to their incredible psychic gifts.

The changelings, who can shapeshift into leopards and wolves, eagles and falcons, and who are as tactile and as warm as the Psy are cold.

And, the humans, who are caught between these two powerful races. Often considered the weakest of the three, humans nonetheless have a critical role to play in this world.

Shards of Hope June 2015TRC:  Shards of Hope is being released today. I know this is Aden’s book, and all your fans have been dying for his story. However, that being said, we bite our nails awaiting each and every one of your books in this series. 🙂    Can you give us a brief description of Shards of Hope?

Nalini:  This is the story of two very dangerous, broken people who have to find a way to each other. At the same time, they have to fight off an enemy that is out to not only kill Aden and Zaira, but that wants to destroy the entire Arrow Squad. A squad full of deadly men and women the world needs, but that it looks upon with suspicion and fear.

It’s a love story between two people—passionate and heartbreaking and hopeful. But it’s also a story of a leader’s love for his people, and of his people’s devotion to him. To be an Arrow is to be family. Always.

TRC:  I ask this question with a grieving heart. We know the end is near for this series, and you will be starting a new arc, but can you give us an update if Shards of Hope is the end of this arc or if there will be more for Psy/Changeling?

Nalini:   There’s no reason to be sad! I call this the end of Season 1, or the Silence arc. Just like in a television series, season 2 won’t abandon all the characters we’ve come to know and love. We’ll just be moving on to another part of the storyline – nothing in this series is ever static. People change, the world changes, and we’re along for the entire ride.

I did a ginormous post about the future of the Psy-Changeling series on my blog, if you’re interested in further info. (It would fill up this entire interview if I copied it over!)

TRC:  sigh  ok, I feel better 🙂

Archangels LegionTRC:  Last October you released the 7th book, Archangel’s Legion, in your fabulous Guild Hunter series.   What can you tell us about the 8th book, which we anxiously expect in November? Also how many books do you anticipate for this series (hopefully many, many more)?

Nalini:  The next book is Archangel’s Enigma. It features the feral, beautiful, and wildly enigmatic Naasir, a vampire who isn’t quite a vampire, and who has the scent of a tiger on the hunt. His heroine is smart and far more than she seems. Together, they’re hell on wheels. 😉

You can read the full blurb and see the cover, here.

I’m not sure how many books there will be in this series (I tend to think in terms of the storyline, rather than a specific number of books). I do know that this series will be shorter than the Psy-Changeling series, for the simple reason that it has a smaller core cast, and I don’t want to move away from that cast. Still, there are at least three more books to go. 🙂

TRC  In March, you released your 2nd full length book, Rock Hard in your Rock Kiss series. For those who may not be familiar with this series, can you please give us a brief description?

ROCK HARDNalini:  The Rock Kiss series is set in the world of rock stars. It’s a fun, sexy, contemporary romance series that is very different from my paranormals. It’s pure romance, no life and death action, and set in the world we know, rather than a paranormal one. (Though the rock star lifestyle is quite fantastical ;-)).

Rock Hard, however, features a seriously built and seriously gorgeous ex-rugby player turned CEO. How did Gabriel Bishop end up in a series about rock stars? Well, he kind of strode onto the page of the first book, Rock Addiction, and boom, his chemistry with the heroine, Charlotte, was so intriguing that I had to know more. Their story ended up making me laugh, cry, and hug myself like a loon. It has a sweet, romantic humor to it, and it’s a story you should read on a day when you need a smile.

You can find a long excerpt on my website.

TRC:  Would you like to share with us what you are currently working on, and what you have in store for us in 2015/2016?

Nalini:   I’m currently editing the second draft of the next Rock Kiss book (Noah and Kit’s story). This one is very intense and emotional and heartwrenching.

As this interview goes live, I’ll be starting the first stages of the next Psy-Changeling book, which will feature an ensemble cast. I want to bring everyone back for the end of season 1. It’s going to be one wild party! (Also, some pupcubs might make their appearance ;-)).

And as always, I’ll be working on free short stories that I share with my readers throughout the year via my newsletter. Anyone can join up through the signup form on my website.

Slave to Sensation

 

TRC:  Would you like to add anything else?

Nalini:  I hope readers enjoy Shards of Hope, and that they fall in love with Aden, Zaira, and the Arrows! If you haven’t yet tried the series, Slave to Sensation is a great starting point, or you can check out some of the free short stories I have on my website.

 

 

Also, you can find me online at:

Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram – @AuthorNaliniSingh / Goodreads

TRC:  Thank you, Nalini for answering our questions. We look forward to continuing to read your books, and to work with you in the future. Good luck with Shards of Hope.

Nalini:  Thank you for the interview!

 

 

About The Author

Nalini Singh


Nalini Singh is the New York Times bestselling author of the Psy-Changeling novels and the Guild Hunter series. She is passionate about writing. Though she’s traveled as far afield as the deserts of China, the Highlands of Scotland, and the temples of Japan, it is the journey of the imagination that fascinates her the most. She’s beyond delighted to be able to follow her dream as a writer. Nalini lives and works in beautiful New Zealand. Visit her website and join her newsletter for up-to-date news about both her series, as well as fun exclusive extras, including free short stories set in her worlds.

 

giveaway

Nalini’s publisher is offering a hardcover copy of SHARDS OF HOPE to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe

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8. Giveaway is open to USA only

9. Giveaway runs from June 2 to 6, 2015

 

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Slave to Sensation by Nalini Singh Promotion & Giveaway

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Slave to Sensation by Nalini Singh Promotion & Giveaway

 

Slave to Sensation new cover

Amazon US  / Amazon UK:  /  B&N  / Kobo

 

Next week Shards of Hope, Nalini Singh‘s 14th book in her fantastic Psy-Changeling series will be released.  You have heard us rave about this series, and now you if you have not started this series, below is a chance to win a copy of the first book, Slave to Sensation, which has a brand new cover.

 

Slave to Sensation promo

 

Description:
In a world that denies emotions, where the ruling Psy punish any sign of desire, Sascha Duncan must conceal the feelings that brand her as flawed. To reveal them would be to sentence herself to the horror of “rehabilitation” – the complete psychic erasure of everything she ever was…

Both human and animal, Lucas Hunter is a changeling hungry for the very sensations the Psy disdain. After centuries of uneasy coexistence, these two races are now on the verge of war over the brutal murders of several changeling women. Lucas is determined to find the Psy killer who butchered his packmate, and Sascha is his ticket into their closely guarded society. But he soon discovers that this ice-cold Psy is very capable of passion – and that the animal in him is fascinated by her. Caught between their conflicting worlds, Lucas and Sascha must remain bound to their identities – or sacrifice everything for a taste of darkest temptation.

 

Review (reprint from 3/12)

Slave to Sensation is the first book in Nalini Singh’s Psy/Changeling series.  I have to say I was a late comer to this series.  I have read other books by Nalini, and I had this series on my huge TBR list.  After reading Slave to Sensation, which I will review shortly, I am totally hooked, and will place this on the top of my list.  What a start for a series.  Anyone who can hook me in immediately, as well as this being her first book in the series, belongs at the top of the list of authors I must read….*pencils in Nalini Singh to the top of the list* 

Slave to Sensation takes place in a future world, consisting of Psy’s, Changelings, and Humans.  Singh tells us early on that the Psy’s are the dominant species, as they have various mind control abilities, as well as being totally emotionless and arrogant.  They are an authoritarian race, that methodically governs Earth.  The Changelings, who are shape shifters, who have similar emotions as humans, and share a common bond of hating the Psy’s.  They all co exist together, though times are now changing. 

Lucas Hunter, who is the alpha leader of the DarkRiver Leopard Pack, is out to avenge the brutal murder of one of his pack members.  He sets about to offer a real estate business arrangement with one of the top and most dangerous  Psy’s, Nikita Duncan , who brings her daughter, Sascha into the meetings.  Lucas intends to try and in filter the PsyNet by using  Sascha to get information on finding the serial killer, before all Changelings will declare war on the Psy’s. 

Sascha Duncan isn’t like the other Psy’s.  She has lived all her life in fear, that she would be discovered as a broken Psy.  Though she is a Cardinal Psy, which is one of the strongest mentally, she was told early on that she had no special psychic ability, and has fought to hide that she has emotional reactions.   Sascha knows that if she is discovered to be flawed, she will be sent to rehabilitation, where they would reprogram her to become mindless.  But her mental shields that she has used to hide her flaws, has become more difficult to control. 

Lucas and Sascha work together on the business arrangement, and Lucas quickly begins to sense that Sascha is not the normal Psy.  Something about her is different.  His panther changeling senses it too.   Sascha finds herself feeling emotions she has never had, an attraction to Lucas.  She fights to control these feelings, and everynight when she goes home, she needs to build up her defenses again, to face her mother, as well as other Psy, who question her about the changelings.  Sascha starts having realistic dreams at night of Lucas, which turn very sexual, and what she doesn’t know is Lucas sees her in the same dream, and they both find themselves drawn to each other, despite the differences.  During the day, Sascha hides her dreams from Lucas, who unbeknownst to her, is totally aware of them. 

What I loved the most was watching Sascha change from a cold business woman, who has never experienced love, sex, sensations into a wonderful caring person.  Just watching the change in her was so well done.  I thoroughly enjoyed watching this, even had fun with Sascha playing with the young cubs.  Cute.    Lucas who hates Psy’s as do all Changelings, knows that she is different, and has fallen in love with her, knowing that she is his mate, despite everything.   His pack, at first finds it difficult to deal with Sascha, but when she unknowingly helps some of them with their own deep emotions, they too begin to see that she is different.  It is one of these encounters that open Sascha eyes as to why the Psy’s are so hated, and learns more about the serial killer, whom the changelings feel the Psy’s are hiding.  As her feelings continue to grow, and become more apparent to herself, and the changelings, Sascha agrees to help them find the killer.   DarkRiver makes an alliance with SnowDancer, a Wolf changeling pack to work with them to help Sascha trap the killer. 

It was a great exciting ending, with Sascha’s life at risk, possible war on the horizon, and surprises and twists along the way.  I loved this book, it reached out to me from the start, and never let go.  I could not put it down.  I enjoyed the characters that Singh introduces us to, especially the changelings from both packs.  I loved Lucas and Sascha together, as their romance sizzled, especially as she discovered all the sensations she missed all of her life.  I can’t wait to continue this series, and find out which characters will be in the forthcoming books.  Thank you, Nalini Singh, for this wonderful series.

Reviewed by Barb

 

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THE BEAST WITHIN -a poem

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THE BEAST WITHIN -a poem based on the Psy-Changeling series by Nalini Singh

THE BEAST WITHIN

A Psy denies the passion for the woman that he loves.
To know desire at the hands was proffered from above.

A Changeling shifts into the man who wants his mate this night.
But instincts rule and flames will burn-demand without a fight.
To hide a rage, a frenzied craze for one so lost, so torn.
To know that evil hunts the weak, a hero will be born.

Sascha feels where others can’t, a sorrow and a loss.
A need to touch, to guide her hand-a line she dare not cross.
But Lucas knows that Sascha’s heart is his to own, to claim.
He builds a passion, breaks the wall that buried her in shame.

Faith can see what fate unfolds for those who dare defy.
The fragile gift could break her mind, her heart, her soul will cry.
Vaughan is a man, a cat, a beast, a Changeling to his core.
Desire rules and hunger craves, the beast is wanting more.

An Arrow caught on bended knee. He knew his past was dark.
But Judd denied himself a place. His loneliness was stark.
Brenna felt the evil in the man who claimed her heart.
But danger called and passions burned right from the very start.

The mating bond was calling from the leopard to his mate.
And Tamysn knew a life fulfilled, no longer ruled by hate.
Honor bound and power rich, for Nate this was his life.
To take a mate, so young and pure, he knew she was his wife.

Clay once lost his heart and soul, he thought his love had died.
A friend betrayed. A mother lost. Their futures will collide.
Talin strived to save the streets, the lives of children lost.
Reveal the truth. The heart will see and lies will bear the cost.

Ashaya burned with inner rage- a need to find her son.
But cold and fury fueled the mind. His freedom would be won.
Dorian had leopard blood. His sister lost the fight.
The beast rebelled and darkness called. He’d take his mate this night.

A soldier strong of power rank, he knew the task at hand.
Zack found Annie. Love had called. Together they would stand.

The wolf it called out to his mate. The cry was answered back.
As Riley claimed his leopard’s fate, his female wasn’t pack.
Mercy knew the man she loved had fanned the flames of fire.
A call to mate-to quench the urge-the embers of desire.

Dev is charged to hide the key, to keep their secrets safe.
Honor bound-protect the young. A need to bind their fate.
Katya claims a memory loss and danger is her game.
Desire burns a passion deep- a need to stake a claim.

Max is shielded from the Psys. He knows his mind protected.
Duty called, protect his mate. His heart was surely tempted.
Sophia felt the evil and the guilt-both man and beast.
To judge a man for sins of past. His future was her fate.

To track the beast who’d fought the man, humanity had lost.
And Drew knew where to rein the rogues who’s lives had surely cost.
A lesser wolf was her desire, a sensual call to mate.
But Indigo she knew his touch, was only tempting fate.

A Lauren Psy, Sienna knew, her life was on the run.
To fight the need. Her power grew-another Changeling won.
Hawke had lost a time ago-he fought the need to love.
But Sienna called out to his soul, a gifting from above.

Adria had broken from her past, her memories filled with hate.
To heed the teachings of your heart. The beast demands its’ mate.
A wolf he stands alone at night, he knows both shame and honor.
And Riaz claims his heart and soul, is tempted by another.

Psy-Changelings face another war, a lesson not yet learned
As mothers cry and families bleed, a lover’s touch is yearned.
Nalini wrote a passion tale of leopard, wolves and man
Of human minds that feel no shame-a desperate final plan.

A shifter’s heart will beat once more-their stories will now ring.
To tell a tale of man and beast –Psy-Changeling by Nalini Singh.

Written by Sandy S.

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Tangle of Need by Nalini Singh – a Review

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Tangle of Need by Nalini Singh – a Review

Tangle of Need, which will be released tomorrow, is the 11th book in Nalini Singh’s Psy/Changeling series. When I started this book, I was worried that it would be a letdown after reading Kiss of Snow.  I adored Hawke and Sienna.  But I have to say, Nalini does it again.  It is amazing how she continues the storyline flawlessly, as she brings in a new romantic couple.  Each book I read, I love Nalini Singh even more.  What a great series this is.

Tangle of Need belongs to Riaz and Adria, both wolves from Snow Dancer.  Yes, we stay with the wolves in this book.  We do get to see some of the Dark River leopards, but this book is mostly the Snow Dancers. 

What I loved the most about this book, was that though we got to enjoy the romance between two dominant wolves in Riaz and Adria, we saw a lot of Hawke and Sienna.  It was so great to spend time with them after their mating ceremony in Kiss of Snow.  Love love them together.  We get to see Mercy and Riley and that was simply great; Lucas and Sascha, and even a funny scene with Faith.  Of course we get to spend time with Judd, who is such a wonderful character.  We also see so many other Snow Dancers, and this is something Nalini does very well.  She has great characters, and uses them so well.  

Riaz is a Snow Dancer Lieutenant, who found his mate, only to find her married and in love with someone else.  This accounts for his belligerent attitude early on. Adria, who is Indigo’s aunt, is a top Snow Dancer soldier.  She broke up with her dominant other, and finds herself totally attracted to Riaz.  But Adria fights this, as she wants nothing to do with another dominant man, whom she feels she cannot trust.  So at the start, both do not like each other, and try to avoid any contact.  But suffice to say, that doesn’t happen and the two are drawn to each other, especially sexually.  There are difficult times ahead, but as they begin to enjoy their sexual encounters, and learn more about each other, things begin to change.  It is really nice to see how Adria totally understands the dilemma Riaz is in having met and been rejected by his true mate.  She becomes more sympathetic towards him, and also finds herself falling in love with him. Adria is willing to break her own heart, to allow Riaz to have his happy ending.  But Riaz, despite his inabilty to do the mating bond, finds himself torn, as he knows he has fallen in love with Adria. He must make choices, if he wants to fight to keep her.   This is really a very nice romance.

The story continues with the Human Alliance; the Psy Council fighting each other; more changelings packs trying to form alliances with Snow Dancer and Dark River; and the Pure Psy group, all trying to assume control.  Three main Psy characters had a bigger part in this story, Kaleb, Vasic and Aden.  I expect to see more of them, perhaps their own stories along the way.  Of course, the mystery continues as to who is the Ghost.  This part of the story with the Psy’s was exciting and we do learn a lot more, as Nalini slowly brings us along.  The ending was excellent, even to the last surprising page.  One of the things I love about Singh, is that she leaves a lot open for the future, and yet it is not a cliffhanger.  Well done.

This was such an enjoyable book, seeing our favorites, and with everything flawlessly falling into place.  Awesome book, awesome characters, awesome series, and an awesome author.  I can’t get enough of Nalini Singh and this wonderful series.

Reviewed by Barb

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