Wasteland

Eternal Light #1

by Lynn Rush

*Out of Print Edition*
Bound by the blood contract his human mother signed four centuries ago, half-demon, David Sadler, must obey his demonic Master's order to capture fifteen-year-old Jessica Hanks. But as he learns more about her, he realizes she may be the key to freedom from his dark enslavement. The only obstacle-Jessica's distractingly beautiful Guardian, Rebeka Abbott. He must not give in to their steamy chemistry, or he will lose his humanity. But fresh off a quarter millennia of sensory deprivation as punishment for not retrieving his last target, he may not be able to resist temptation long enough to save what's left of his human soul.

Genres: Paranormal, Fantasy, Angels, Romance, Demons, Young Adult, New Adult

282 pages, Paperback

First published August 15, 2011

About the author

New York Times & USA Today Bestselling Author, Lynn Rush, is a full-time writer, wife, and trail runner living in the Sonoran Desert, despite her fear of rattlesnakes. Known as #TheRunningWriter, Lynn can’t resist snapping epic sunrise pictures while running in the desert with her trail sisters, even if she has to occasionally hop a scorpion.

When she’s not running or writing, she’s watching movies that fuel her everlasting love of superheroes, vampires, and all things Supernatural. The books she reads usually carry the same theme, but this former college athlete loves reading sweet sports romances as well.

She’s madly in love with her Ironman husband of 20+ years who is the inspiration for what true love is. You can find her on social media as @LynnRushWrites and her website is: www.lynnrush.com

Reviews

[Lynn Rush]

Since I wrote the book, I have to rate it five stars, right? **LOL** Seriously. I really enjoyed writing this book, and I hope you enjoy reading it.

[Giselle · Rating 4 out of 5]

From page one, Wasteland jumps right into the tortuous life of David; a half-demon who either has to resist temptations, or succumb to his demon half - for good. No sooner had I started reading, that I realized this is not your average YA novel. It has a lot of mature content and a sophisticated prose that will appeal to older YA fans.

David is a tortured soul. He wants nothing more than to be free from his demon half who screams to let him loose. It's distressing to see what he goes through every day, but his strength, his goodness, is remarkable. He's an all around fantastic character. Simply having a male protagonist is wonderful. I've come to really enjoy books written in a male's POV. We see David develop a connection with Beka almost instantly. However, it doesn't seem rushed or unbelievable. It's written in a way that you can see to the depths of his core and feel his attraction to her. It's not simply lust, nor is it the cliché love at first sight (or insta-love if you wish) that we often see in today's YA novels. They just have this bond that you can feel from the start. And Beka as his own personal forbidden fruit, makes this a positively maddening romance. It was great! The steamy scenes are very intense and give these characters an immense amount of chemistry; almost unbearable at times. I would not recommend this to younger teens. I even think it's classified in the new "new adult" genre. As a non-teenage YA reader, I thought it was perfect for the sophisticated storyline. It has the flow of a YA novel, but the maturity of an adult's.

Wasteland is the definition of action packed! Fast paced and full of unexpected turns- It's easy to get immersed in this book and lose track of time. The world building is interwoven in the plot in a way that gives enough details to make us incessantly curious, but without bogging down the story. This was also great for creating excellent turnabouts in the plot. As the first book in a series, I was not expecting the ample amount of story development that we got. The ending is also reminiscent of a stand-alone. As I looked into it further - the next installment feels more like a companion, as it's the story of one of the secondary characters from Wasteland. I'm truly delighted by this since I get tired of series that either drag on a story until it turns into a jumbled mess, or simply feel like one book divided in 3 (or more).

A positively refreshing read; I recommend Wasteland to paranormal fans who crave just a bit more our of their YA novels. You can expect a hot romance, captivating storylines and a fantastic world- which, by the way, holds awesome fight scenes that would be brilliant on the big screen!

--
For more of my reviews, visit my blog at Xpresso Reads

[Destany · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was given an ARC of this book from the author for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

This book hooked me pretty early on because of the mystery. I'm a sucker for a mystery that kicks things into gear! David and Beka are so meant for each other, but their build up to finding out who each other are is so satisfying. I love hoe Beka, well, to borrow a cool term, moved heaven and earth to find David after he'd been taken.

The world building is slow throughout the book, and there isn't a huge info dump at the beginning that has a tendency to lose some readers. A slow, steady pace is set through the book, and I loved being in David's mind through the process because he is such a complex character.

Can't wait for book 2!

[Caroline Phillips · Rating 4 out of 5]

I cant do half stars but this is a solid 4.5/5 ⭐️ I absolutely loved this book, Beka and David are like soulmates, even before they knew about each other. They fit so well with each other. They click. Thank you Lynn for the ARC I’m so glad I read this!

[katrina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great storyline - A demon caught between choosing between darkness and the light !! ;) and so much more !!

David Sadler, is bound by blood, a contract in which his human mother signed before his conception. This contract has spanned four centuries and still David is bound and must obey his Demonic Masters requests. His master has sent him on his latest target a young 15 year old girl – Jessica Hanks but as time goes on David learns more about her and realizes she maybe the key to his humanity and to cease his existence within his demonic enslavement.

The only catch - a beautiful guardian who David feels an instant attraction to, David must not give in to temptation or he will lose his humanity- his human soul. His quarter millennia of sensory deprivation as punishment for not getting his last target will test his resolve and he may not be able to resist the beauty and temptation of Rebeka Abbott. David must resist the lure or Rebeka long enough to save what’s left of his human soul.

An array of events take place making it almost near impossible for David to cross from darkness to light, will he return from the wastelands to join the light? Or die in the dark depths below?

My Thoughts!

Lynn has woven a very well crafted and unique storyline here with Wastelands. A Demon who does not wish to be dark, and only wants to be human - but the concept behind it is more than just this.Its Cleverly scripted making it an intriguing storyline. Im sure will suck you in !

David does not want to live in Darkness and do evils works- he wants to see the light at the end of the dark tunnel - a demand bestowed upon for centuries. This concept, can a demon change his ways will make you ponder throughout!!

If you’re a paranormal junkie then Wastelands is the book for you, Lynn has weaved many aspects into this wonderul action packed, suspensufl storyline, giving it grunt, spunk, passion, lust, action , suspense and a climax I’m sure will have you gasping.

A fantastic array of supporting characters I really enjoyed, and the main characters I’m sure you will eagerly follow.

Rebeka's kick arse attitude has spunk – but yet is sassy!! A woman, who is powerful, yet contains powers both within and also physically. Beauty not only skin deep and also the qualities of a true leader.

David is a torn soul, having to deal the hand of death in his Masters demands, killing and living a life of loneliness, unable to love or be loved in fear that what is left of his humanity will be stripped from him giving in to his inner demon !! This man sure had willpower!!

Four centuries celibate!

I’d give him a crown myself, but rest assured, his days of glory are not far behind, you can see the sparks,and electricity between him and Rebeka and just want them to get it on!!


Rebeka may just cause David to spontaneously combust with lust!! lol..

An intriguing concept A Demon born to be bad = but wanting so much more. David was charming, smexy, kick arse warrior with the skill to kill and a master of mayhem when he is slashing and gashing !! A character I’m sure you will fall in love with … The passion him and Rebeka share is electrifying and smoking !! Passionate, loving, hot and sensual and a Forbidden love...

A love that is not meant to be???

Kick arse action scenes, a Villain we all want to see vaporized and a crisp dialogue and compelling storyline to boot. Chapters all flowed smoothly, descriptions well placed. The last few chapters will have you on the edge of your seat. This story had my interest piqued within the first few chapters and I must say Lynn has left us an opening for book 2 and I eagerly await its release ;)

[Michelle Leah Olson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wasteland
Author: Lynn Rush

Synopsis: Bound by the blood contract his human mother signed four centuries ago, half-demon, David Sadler, must obey his demonic Master's order to capture fifteen-year-old Jessica Hanks. But as he learns more about her, he realizes she may be the key to freedom from his dark enslavement.
The only obstacle-Jessica's distractingly beautiful Guardian, Rebeka Abbott. He must not give in to their steamy chemistry, or he will lose his humanity. But fresh off a quarter millennia of sensory deprivation as punishment for not retrieving his last target, he may not be able to resist temptation long enough to save what's left of his human soul.

Our Review [by a LITERAL ADDICTION Associate Guest Reviewer]:
When David is released by his master from 250 years of sensory deprived captivity he is thrust into the world of life, color and touch. When he is sent to a club to locate his mark he can't keep his eyes away from a beautiful woman named Beka but he know he must not give in to his desires as it would transform him into a full demon and he wants to keep his last shred of humanity for as long as he can. When he finds out that Beka and her brother are Guardian's, whose job it is to protect the mark he was sent to retrieve, David has to decide whether to betray Beka, his master or himself.
I really enjoyed this book and couldn't read the pages fast enough. David has had a really crappy life. His mother sold him to the devil before he was even born and he must do his masters bidding or he suffers for it. When he is first released from his most recent captivity he is overwhelmed and out of touch with the times but he is watched by another demon who likes nothing more than to taunt and tempt him. His reaction to Beka is beautiful as he knows he cannot touch her. He is the perfect mix of alpha male with a lot of vulnerability thrown in. Beka is so different from him she is everything that is good and doesn't have any problem with protecting herself. She is intrigued by David as soon as she meets him but she doesn't know he is a demon. When David saves Beka and betrays his own kind he realizes he must try to find a way to get out of his contract and he realizes that his mark could be the key.
This book had it all. Action, romance, mystery and kept me guessing until the last minute. It is beautifully written and so easy to follow that it was a pleasure to read. I would recommend this to anyone who likes, angels, demons, action, romance and a story that will keep you up till 3am because you just couldn't put it down!
LITERAL ADDICTION’s Associate Guest Reviewer gives Wasteland 5 Skulls.

[Lola · Rating 3 out of 5]

I got a copy for review in exchange for an honest review.

I liked this book, but it was not great. It is a nice enjoyable story, but do not expect much more than that. The story is about a half demon David who after years of confinement is sent out in the world again to find a girl who has some significance (what isn't exaclty clear at the beginning and this is only revealed later on). The beginning is a bit confusing, but quite fast we understand who David is and what he has to do. Ofcourse this book is a romance and David quickly falls in love with a woman. But if he sleeps with a women he will turn complete demon, so he has to struggle to not fall in love.

I liked the idea behing the story. I also liked that the narrator is a male. I liked how David had to struggle to contain his inner demon. But strangely enough I liked the first half of the story more than the second half. I am not going tell why, because I do not want to spoiler anything. The story contains some unexpected plot twist, but overal the story is petty predictable. Also there where some parts that went a bit too fast and other events that seemed to drag on a bit.

For a romance novel it in fact does contain not too much romance. There is much action in the book, altough I have to say that the action scenes where a bit boring. The fights seemed very easy and I felt like the same thing happened again and again. The action scenes just weren't that interesting. there where many fights, but they weren't interesting. I also easily tired of some phrases that where used a bit too often, like the word "treasure" and the fact that every time there is romance both character moan a bit too much. And the way the characters use the same word to refer to each other instead of just using names they called each husband, wife or mate constantly

The characters where oké, but there was not much depth to them. The lead chcracters felt in love with each other at first sight, something I do not like. But they where very faithful to each other, which I did like. The characters where oké, but i didn't really felt like a knew them and didn't really cared what happened to them. I also found it strange that when one of the gaurdians dies, nobody seems to care. It was like o he died and we never heard anything about him anymore.

To conclude a nice and enjoyable story, but do not expect too much. The story is oké, but not great. The book contains a lot of action for a romance novel. The romance was a bit predictable. But overal it was a nice book.

[Keri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay, so I'm glad I waited a few days before reviewing this book. It caused me to really think about it, and I ended up changing my 3-star rating to 4 stars. The reason for this is that the book was probably a 3.75 for me, and I think it only fair to give it a 4-star rating. Now, on to the review...

This book was incredibly fast paced, and I enjoyed the story immensely. I liked the characters, and I found myself drawn to the main character because he was flawed and lives in shades of gray (not black or white.) I had a few issues with the story (mainly the second half.) I found it a little distracting that the author found it necessary to explain the dialect of the characters. I didn't really care how they spoke because I assume angels are either smart enough to pick up on modern dialect, or too above it all to care (and thus would speak as they prefer--either in their ancient way or not.) So, having this explained to me more than once was annoying. I also felt the second half of the book was a little rushed, but still very well written. There were a few grammatical/spelling errors, but nothing that took away from the book (and nothing that couldn't be corrected with another round of editing.)

Overall, I really enjoyed Wasteland and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys paranormal romance. I look forward to more interesting reads from Lynn Rush. :)

UPDATE:
Okay, so I originally gave this 3.5 stars and rounded up to 4. However, I have continued to think about this book for a long time. It has really stayed with me. It's calling me back for another read (which is unusual for me.) So, I'm changing my rating to 4.5 stars rounded up to 5. I'm excited about reading it again, and about the next books in the series. The author writes in a way that haunts me and has me begging for more. :)

[Amy Turner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lynn Rush has packed one heck of a punch with Wasteland. David, whose mother used him to negotiate a deal with Lucifer, is half-human, half-demon, with a contract to find whoever his Master tells him to find (called a Mark). Recently released early from a hellish punishment a few years early, he's set on the trail of his newest Mark. Instead, he mets Beka.  Beka, on the other hand, is a Guardian. Her soul purpose in life is to protect humans from demons. Her job, when they meet, is to protect the Mark that David is hunting. When they meet? The chemistry is instantenous and off the charts.  The only problem is that David's punishment was solitary confinement - of the sensory deprivation kind - and to give in would mean the end of his humanity.
Once David and Beka meet, the chemistry and the challenges that face them keep you turning pages, devouring until the end. Then? You are quite impatient for the next book! I don't want to give anything away, but Lynn Rush definitely had me going for a minute, unsure what was really happening and if they could make their love work. David is strong and honorable, but sensitive to whether or not he is worthy of love - or of a second chance. I'm not usually a fan of first person perspective, but Lynn made it genuine and believable, without drowning us in David's internal thoughts. The sizzle between David and Beka is palpable and vivid; you can't help but root for them to find a way.
My only question is this - when do we get to see them again, Lynn? How long do we have to wait?

[Rachel Firasek · Rating 5 out of 5]

When you start into a new genre, it's not always an easy task. New Adult is very new to the Romance world, or is it? New Adult reminds me of a time about thirty ears ago when the heroines were 15-17 years old (an age we now consider YA) and the heroes were wealthy bachelors ready to produce an heir, or at least that's what I expected.

Lynn Rush has captured a youthful innocence and an old soul all in the same package with her hero David and somehow made it work. I read this story in just a few hours and hated it when my kids demanded feeding--otherwise I would have read it straight through. This story is packed with so many action scenes that led to plot twists that I felt like I was watching an action/adventure movie riddled with demons and angels.

The romance was so sweet I had tears during their first kiss--Seriously one of the best first kisses ever. I'd totally recommend this if you're look for high action, high heat---but spoiler: it is mostly closed door. It didn't stop me from loving it.

[Ciara Knight · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wasteland is stunning in both characterization and action packed storyline. When the story opens, I immediately sympathized with David, a half-demon forced to obey his master after his mother signed a blood contract before he was born. Will he give into his demon side or fight the sexual urges for a forbidden, beautiful Guardian, Rebeka. The snarky, formal dialogue of a four hundred year old half-human was believable and engaging.

Long after I finished reading Wasteland, the characters still haunted me. This book is full of hot, sensual scenes, suspense, adventure, and forbidden love. Settle in before you pick up this book because you won’t put it down until the very end.

A must read for 2011!

[Laura · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this book, it had so much potential, but lacked in the romance dept. I felt some chemistry between these main characters, but it didn't fully bloom in the sex dept. I'm not sure if this was meant for teenagers or young kids, but the story involved "adult" characters and I felt the author babied the readers. Now on the other hand we have Stephanie Meyers books which she could write to the point you thought you were in bed w/the characters but you weren't..here it's like..ok, lets go have sex,,wink wink..and then next thing you know a different part of the story is starting...I'm like, what just happened here!? Rip off!! lol! Anyways..it would have been so much better if ..well..you know. Nuff said.

[Arlette · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was an amazing book. The setting is quite different from most books I've read and really liked that. I was a bit wary about the fact that it is written from David's point of view and I was afraid I wouldn't be able to really get into him, since he is a boy, but from the beginning on I could really feel how he felt, being so new with the modern world and all.

Lynn Rush did a great job in describing the characters and bringing them to life. The connection between David and Beka was amazingly described, as well as the loyalty of Russell.

Sometimes it felt like it was a little rushed through some events, but on the other hand so many things happened in the book, it was probably good to keep the pace up.

All and all, definately deserved 5 stars *****

[Lynn Rush]

“Nobody writes a wounded hero like Lynn Rush! EXILED simmers with sexual tension, fast plotting, and heart felt dialogue! I loved this sweet and action-packed paranormal romance!”
-Rebecca Zanetti, New York Times Bestselling Author

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic story. This one has it all, Angels, Demons, romance, action, what more could a girl want?! It kept me reading right to the end. Can't wait for the next one.

[Lillie Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

David, half demon by his mother's blood contract, has spent 245 years at the mercy of his Master's torture. Unable to fulfill Master's demand, he was sent to the burning pits, darkness, sensory deprivation, and unending hungers. Upon his release, David is sent after Master's newest desire, Jessica Hanks, with no other information other than the name of a nightclub in Arizona and that she bears a mark.

Gage, his demon 'brother', jailor, and unwanted companion, tries to intimidate David, cow him into become the full demon he knows rests inside David's body, the one who claws for release, the one who wants to taste tender flesh. But, David knows, the instant he gives into his unholy desire, his life as he knows it will be over. His humanity lost. This he cannot live with.

Beka is a guardian angel sent to protect the one thing David must have, Jessica Hanks, but with as little information as David. She and her 'brother', Russell, become the operators of this nightclub where Jessica is to be found. Who is Jessica Hanks? Why is she so important? Beka has the answers to some of these questions. She knows what Jessica will transform to be. And she'll sacrifice her life to make sure it happens.

But, when David meets Beka, he is tempted, first by the feel of her pale flesh, then by her lilac scent. When Jessica is discovered, it's David who ends up protecting her and saving Beka's life, linking them together forever. But, with his failure to obey Master or to give in to the desire of Beka's flesh, Master will punish David all over again.

Wasteland by Lynn Rush is under Crescent Moon Press's new genre of New Adult, targeted toward the emerging late teens to early twenties, those facing first time relationships, jobs, life of an adult. It has some of the qualities of YA, looking for answers, but also some of the qualities of Adult fiction, finding love, making lasting commitments. Wasteland is the story of David Sadler, half-demon who is held by a blood contract signed by his mother before his birth. Sold for riches she never enjoyed, raped by a demon. He's a 400 year old immortal who's clinging to what's left of his human soul, who has done Master's bidding to the best of his abilities. His only failure occurred with the death of his last mark. But, even the tiniest failure earns Master's wrath, and he spent 245 of a 250 year sentence in torture, released early to find Jessica Hanks. But, what so special about this girl that makes Master release him early from punishment? Why must it be he to bring Jessica to Master? Why not one of Master's other demon slaves? What is Master truly trying to accomplish? When David is sent to retrieve Jessica, he meets Beka Abbott and he discovers some of the answers to his questions. But, will he lose himself in the process? Will he be able to resist what he desires most? Can the dark survive in the light?

Wasteland is a wonderfully told tale of the discovery of truths. The title of the book speaks volumes, and it's uniquely found. Lynn Rush creates a world that exists within the bounds of the human realm, one where demons exists to do their Master's bidding, and guardian angels exist to stop the demons and protect the innocent. But, what happens when one of the innocent has been sold to evil? Forced to become what should have never been, but as destiny would have, has indeed occurred. That's what happens in Wasteland. The question is can one survive the other. Can our hero, David, become what our heroine, Beka, needs? Or will they fail each other, especially when the truths are laid out for everyone to see. Crescent Moon Press has taken an ambitious step filling the role of this new emerging genre with Wasteland as it's first entry. It accomplishes the feat and more. Wasteland is for the paranormal romance lovers, urban fantasy lovers, and for anyone who loves the struggle to find and then hold on to love once it's found. Readers of YA outside it's targeted audience, and for those emerging from YA hoping to find a middle ground, should also give this new genre a try. Wasteland is an excellent read, highly recommended. Lynn Rush will follow up Wasteland with Awaited in 2012. She also has a new release coming March 2012, Violet Midnight, Book 1 of the Violet Night Trilogy. Wasteland gets 5 out of 5 fairy kisses for this reader.

[Stina Madison · Rating 4 out of 5]

Full review here: http://zodiacbookreviews.blogspot.com...

Wasteland isn't your average YA or Adult novel. It has everything you love about YA, but the maturity of an Adult novel. This puts Wasteland in the virtually unknown New Adult genre. The first half of the book has the grittiness of urban fantasy and gradually gets more of the fantastical elements of paranormal romance in the second half. Lynn Rush has created a world and characters that are so fascinating to read about. Each character has a depth that you don't find very often and it's exciting each time we learn something more about them.

Wasteland opens with David Sadler, a 400-year-old half-demon just released from his 245 year punishment of sensory deprivation for failing his last assignment, being thrown into sensory overload in an Arizona dance club searching for his next Mark. David's new Mark is 15-year-old orphan Jessica Hanks. Jessica bears the Mark of Elpida, and it's not only David's Master who wants her. Standing in his way are Guardians, Beka and Russell. They are there to protect Jessica from the demons.

Jessica is a being of pure Light, called the Merus, who can cleanse those who have not become fully demon. But if she falls into the wrong hands while going through her transformation, the opposite can happen. Jessica is David's only chance of being freed from his contract, signed by his mother before he was even born, so he has a choice to make. Take her to his Master and lose his freedom forever, or help the Guardians protect her and gain more than just his freedom.

(SPOILERS) There is a moment in Wasteland that was so terrifying, heartbreaking, hopeful, and powerful. This moment is my favorite part of the whole book. It's a turning point for both David and Beka. This is the moment when David is holding Beka's head to her neck, willing her to heal and live. It was so terrifying because Beka is on the ground with a sword thrust through her body and a blade at her neck, literally giving her life to protect Jessica, and you just know that the demon is going to behead her. It was heartbreaking because David is begging Beka to fight, but all he can do is watch as the demon swings his blade though her neck, watching as the woman he loves is being murdered right before his eyes. It's hopeful because, while David is helplessly willing Beka to live, she is healing and her heart begins to beat again. You can feel David's relief in knowing that she's going to live. And finally, this moment is so powerful because it shows the strength of David's love for Beka, but it's also David's breaking point. If Beka had died David would have had no reason to keep fighting his demon. It's also the moment when David and Beka became connected. When David was holding Beka together, their blood mixed together, effectively making their "hearts beat as one." That one line really sums everything up.

The feel of the book changes once David is changed into a Guardian Angel. Before his change you can feel the darkness surrounding him. You can feel his torment, his inner struggle, and his hopelessness. After his change you can feel the Light. You can feel his happiness, his love for Beka, and his dedication to his new cause. Atmosphere is important to a great story and Wasteland has an atmosphere you can literally feel.

Now that the Guardians have their King and Queen, the Dark Angel and White Angel, the demons have lost a lot of power. I can't wait to read Awaited and see what happens in the next adventure.

[Nikki · Rating 4 out of 5]

Half human, half demon David just got out of a very long solitary confinement punishment for failing to bring in his last mark. Not that it was his fault, hard to bring in someone who dies in a fire you know? Regardless he’s just been freed, early even, and given his next assignment. Bring in the extremely important Jessica. Though he has no idea why she is so important he sets out to find her which in turn starts a chain reaction of events that will change the face of good and evil.

Rebeka is Jessica’s Guardian and protecting her is of the utmost importance. She can not allow David to stand in the way of the job she has been entrusted with for centuries. The feelings David awakens in her shake her to her core and make her question everything she’s ever believed in. Can she truly love a demon who is trying so hard to fight the darkness? And will Jessica be able to save him in the end?

.

Wasteland is an intriguing read from new author Lynn Rush. The world building is simply worded and I didn’t suffer from trying to pronounce names I had no idea what they were. Lynn does excellent at painting the picture of the characters surroundings. I think that was my favorite part, her descriptions of the world she had built.

David and Rebeka worked well together though there were several times I wanted more from them then they gave me. I liked their old world style cadences and throw backs and found that part enjoyable. I think where I felt it lacked was in their connection. I read the words and I could see where I was supposed to feel certain things, but I just couldn’t. I liked them individually just fine but I never felt this eternal love they seemed to feel. I had an issue with the 35 yr time gap half way through the story. I thought that had it been a bit shorter I might have been able to commit a bit more to them. I just had a hard time believing it would take the Guardians so long to find David again…especially if he was as important as they were told he would be.

I also had a hard time with Jessica’s sister, Elizabeth. She is said to be seventeen but whenever she’s around I found she acted more like a 7 year old. She came across very immature and I had to recheck her age several times.

I really liked David’s internal struggle with his human and demon side. Even when his demon side emerged I thought he showed great strength in repressing his baser urges. Though I tend to go for the guys that embrace their bad boy side as well, this was a welcome change of pace. I really liked the Guardian angel aspect and I thought both David and Beka were wrote with a great human edge to their emotions. Since Rebeka was so much older then David I would have thought she would have been a bit different about showing her emotions and been more stoic, but she wasn’t and that did help a bit as far as connecting with them.

I think that for readers who like angels, a small amount of smex and great world building, this one is for you! Lynn Rush has done a solid job on Wasteland and has given the readers a lush story with great individual characters and she has something to build on if she takes it to a sequel! The secondary characters are all well wrote and I hope we get to find out more about them..especially Russell and Abraham…hint hint Lynn LOL.

I give Wasteland by Lynn Rush 3.75 stars

[Elise Marion · Rating 3 out of 5]

When it comes to the review of this book, I am incredibly torn. After wrestling with my thoughts I've decided on 3 out of 5 stars for a few reasons. First, the things I did like.

I really sympathized with the character David. How could you not? He has been cursed by his mother's decision, sold to the devil for her own gains and now wrestles with the demon side of him that wars constantly with his humanity. Chastity is the only thing that saves him from going full demon, which is why David has to control his sexual impulses. After a 250 year sentence in confinement and sensory deprivation for not completing an assignment, David is thrown back out into the world. The first few chapters wrenched at my heart as every touch, sight, or sound toys with his turbulent emotions. Because the book is in first person, we are really inside of David and we get to feel what he feels and see what he sees.

I liked the premise of this story as well. The ideas were unique and well thought out and I appreciated the intricacy of the story telling. I liked most of the characters, though at times Beka seemed a bit flat, mainly because we are not able to get inside of her head. In this way, the first person sort of cripples the story but I felt David's inner struggle and humanity really made for what we don't get to see in Beka. Their chemistry is amazing, and every tender scene between them was beautiful and sensual in a way that made you want to see them together and cheer for a happy ending.

For me, though, this book could have benefited from some editing and I'm not talking about grammar. What I am talking about are the endless pages of demon vs. Guardian battles that take place in the story. For me some of these scenes could have been glossed over as they became incredibly redundant. There are only like one or two ways to kill a demon, so each battle scene contains the same action present in the first. I found myself skipping paragraphs to get through these because there were far too many and they interrupted the flow of the story as they often came out of nowhere. It just seemed to be too much.

This story also tends to drag with the constant repeating of people's feelings and thoughts, and rehashing of things we've already been told. Once again, I found myself skipping parts because it just became so repetitive and dampened my enjoyment of the story in some parts. I feel that a lot of this could have been cut out and book would still have been good and maybe even had a greater impact.

At about 70% things got interesting again with some surprising revelations and a big change that alters David's destiny forever. Some characters even earn wings and that adds another element of beauty to the story. Once again though, the constant descriptions became repetitive and even that became boring after a few chapters.

All in all this story was a good one. Lynn Rush writes beautifully, and her voice (David's voice) holds you captivated so that even in the parts that drag, you continue to turn the pages in search of the answers. You just have to know what will happen next!


***I was supplied a copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for my honest review. The opinions expressed are purely my own. I was not compensated in any way.***

[Sam (FallingBooks) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read more of my reviews at Falling Books!

Wasteland is a kick-ass book FULL of exciting and heart racing scenes. Paranormal romance lovers will devour this. I found it extremely hard to put down! Lynn Rush has created an enticing world full of deadly creatures and surprising twists that will leave readers breathless.

I got lost in David's story. Who wouldn't want to read about a demon? Especially a demon who has been tortured for two hundred years with no clue of how to act in the 21st century. I always love a good demon book! To be honest, Wasteland was everything I expected it to be; blood, guts, claws, evil characters, etc. But, I never expected all the terrifying twists and enjoyable characters!

David, a half-demon and also a tortured soul. Roaming lands with only the intention to kill for his Master. He can't get away. David is bound to his job by a contract that his mother signed so many centuries ago. His next project is Jessica, a teenager who his Master wanted very badly. Soon, David is sent off to find her but someone gets in the way. Beka. A beautiful guardian angel, who just happens to take an interest in David. He knows that he cannot have her, for if he gives into temptation he will become a full demon. Yet, David can't stay away from this gorgeous angel who doesn't even know what he is, and he won't tell her. If she knew what he was....she would have to kill him.

David; I really liked this man, he has a lot of determination and passion inside of him that's waiting to be set free. His past will entice you and wish you could read more about his mother, his past life, etc. Did I mind having a main character who ripped everyone to pieces? My answer: No, not really. After all, we've all read Twilight. David is a much more interesting that Edward Cullen. Seriously, who wants to read about vampires when you can read about demons?

I admired David's love for Beka, their relationship is forbidden, yet they try so hard to stay together. I also loved their first encounter. Meeting your true love in a club? Awesome. If you've read (and loved) the romance in City of Bones by Cassandra Clare you will definitely enjoy the romance in Wasteland. If you also love a book with lots of battle and bloody scenes then this will satisfy you.

Overall, Wasteland is a very good paranormal novel that will interest older teen readers and adults. I recommend this to everyone who loves to read about demons, angels and spiritual beleifs. On top of that, Wasteland has a very intriguing romance that will have you wanting more! I can't wait to get started on the sequel, Awaited, which is to be released in May 2012.

[Wendy · Rating 4 out of 5]

The thing that attracted me to Wasteland was the cover. The blue glowing within the black is haunting, and the feather floating to the ground is light and beautiful. I had a visceral reaction when I saw it and wanted to read it instantly. I’m not a fan of the typeface, though. I would have preferred a font that reflected the Old World origins of most of the characters, maybe some sort of compromise between blackletter and a roman face. Don’t mind me…I’m a type snob and I know it.

Wasteland opens in a small town in Arizona, at a dance club where locals are getting their drink and flirt on. In the center of this mass of bodies and alcohol is 400-year-old David Sadler, a sort-of bounty hunter who’s spent the last 245 in solitary confinement as punishment for missing his last Mark. He dreams of being free of the contract on his soul, while his demon-half tries every second to claw out of his skin for good.

For that to happen, David would have to give into the temptation he’s so far succeeded in resisting. That’s actually written into the contract his mother signed in blood before he was born. Letting down his guard, giving into a woman’s charms, or losing hold of his demon for even one moment and failing to stop the beast from taking what it wants…it makes no difference. Sex will wipe out what remains of his humanity.

Consider for a moment what 245 years means. The last time David walked among humans, it was 1767. And, the past 200 years of his punishment were spent in sensory deprivation. And now, here he is…2012, in a club where the women wear next to nothing, drink, dance, and flirt with strangers. Master wants the rest of his soul; David’s determined to not let him have it.

Wasteland is initiated as a thriller with frequent battles and relentless pacing. But in this story, there are two games in play. There is the obvious race between demons and guardians both looking for a child messiah, and the tug of war between the same demons and angels for David’s freedom and soul. As for David himself, he is tormented by metaphorical demons more powerful that the literal ones that surround him. Finding himself worthy of the love and trust of the guardians is the biggest one of all.

Wasteland is a good book. I very much enjoyed reading David’s story, particularly one scene where he holds Beka’s head in his hands and begs her to live. I looking forward to reading the sequel, Awaited.

[Avery Olive · Rating 4 out of 5]

David Sadler is half demon-half human but 100% hot. He’s been forced to carry out the whims of his master, because his mother signed away his soul before he was even born. Right away I felt sorry for him because his choice between good and evil was taken away. But David is a survivor. Even though he’s spent centuries doing what’s been forced upon him he’s never really given up hope and continues to search for a way to extract the demon from him, allowing him to be what he truly wants to become, human.

But with a demon caged inside of him, begging for release David experiences a touch of that darkness every time he gets angry, fights, or as unfortunate luck would have it, stares down a beautiful woman.

Enter, Beka Abbot. She’s more than just a pretty girl in a skimpy dress. She’s caught David’s attention. But even she can’t deny her growing attraction for the mysterious, old spoken and good looking David. Though her job might be the reason they can never be together. She’s a Guardian and has been sent to protect the very thing David thinks might be the key to his humanity, a girl, Jessica Hanks. But that girl is David’s most recent contract, and it’s his job to take her to the dark side and to his master.

Wasteland is a rollercoaster of ups and downs. Just when you think all is well, another plot point comes out rearing its ugly head, forcing David and Beka into what seems like more of an impossible situation than the last. Even when it comes to something as simple as love David and Beka are constantly tormented and thrown in different directions.
It’s enough to have you fascinated, engrossed and begging for a happy ending. However, it’s not just a love story, not in the least, there are gripping action and fight sequences, a list of supporting characters that add so much, and what novel wouldn’t be complete without a sadistic, cruel, power-seeking Villian?

In my opinion this one truly does have it all. Wasteland makes for a captivating story that can be enjoyed by the masses and one that, man I wish I could watch on the big screen. So, if any big shot movie producers are reading this... Wasteland would be a box office hit, for sure!

To read more on my review of Wasteland, please check out, www.averyolive.blogspot.com

[Carly Wallace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hi y'all Anne here and I finished reading Wasteland by Lynn Rush and wow what an exciting read. This book is action packed and turmoil ridden from the very first page. The story line is remarkable in that it's the classic good versus evil base but it takes a drastic turn as David the half breed is brought back from solitary confinement in hell to find and retrieve a mark his master requires. David is 400 years old and battles internally for is human soul to remain in tact. Even after 250 years in sensory deprivation he has the uncanny ability to control his inner demons wants for lust and violence. That is until he sees the beautiful and serene Beka dancing in a club where his mark is being housed. Beka is the embodiment of purity in his eyes, everything about her is perfect to him and he desperately fights to keep control in her presence. Beka is accompanied by Russell her brother in arms and he sees through David but it's not at all what he thinks he knows. David must make an epic decision with his life and either choose what he was born into or choose what he was created to be. Will David be able to hold his demon in check or will he submit and have what he desires.
This book is a great read and is so easy to fall into and get caught up in the turmoil for right and wrong. It shares a story of true internal battle, being born into dark but striving and reaching to be in the light. We are all meant for great things it is however our choices which point us to our ultimate paths. I related to the story in this book having been on a dark road and able to find a way out even though sometimes you must suffer you always feel in the end it will be worth it. Lynn did a beautiful job bringing the characters to life and making each one unique and beautiful, even the dark characters play a role in the ultimate end. She breaths life into the story by having constant anguish and pain cripple the lead characters into almost making decisions that will shift balance and change fate. I truly enjoyed this story and can't wait for book 2 because I love the style, characters, and story she has written. It's really an amazing journey to partake in and will leave you breathless and wanting more once you close the back cover.

[Denna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to the deal his mother made with Lucifer before his birth, David is a half breed demon stuck serving a sadistic demon master with little hope of ever breaking free of the contract. We meet David right after he is freed from a two hundred and forty-five year stint caged in sensory deprivation. His master pulls David from the punishing cage five years early and sends him out on a job before he is given a chance to adjust, his deprived senses still on overload. Once again set loose in the human realm, David learns his mark is a fifteen-year-old girl. There is a reason David’s master sends him to a nightclub in search of the girl. Should David ever give in to temptation and bed one of the beautiful women set in his path, he’ll lose the battle with his demon side and become a full demon with no hope of ever escaping his master’s cruel hand. Anything honest and good left inside him would be destroyed forever.

But David’s mark is not left without protection from one such as him. She has been placed under the watchful eye of two powerful Guardians, a brother and sister, both who are willing to give up their lives to protect their young charge. Normally this wouldn’t be enough to stop one such as David, but Beka, one of the Guardians protecting his mark, is beautiful and a temptation he might not be able to resist. It doesn’t help when Beka is also attracted to him. She feels a connection with him even though her brother recognizes David’s demon side and the threat he posed to the girl they must protect at all costs.

Wasteland gave me everything I could hope for when choosing a paranormal romance. Tension begins to build right from the start as we watch David fight for control of the demon inside him (literally). He must risk everything and switch sides if he wants to keep the woman he loves alive and safe, even if it risks another tortured two hundred and fifty years placed in sensory deprivation. Can he dare to hope the Guardians speak the truth when they say his mark can help him overcome his demon side? But only if he hands her over to them instead of his master. The pace is fast and fun with plenty of fight scenes for those of you who love lots of action. A worthy five star read by author Lynn Rush.

[Danielle (Bookwhoreblog) Perez · Rating 4 out of 5]

David is a half-breed human/demon bound to the devil by a contract his mother signed before he was even born. While David is forced to do the work of the devil, he truly hates every minute of it. On a mission to retrieve a very important Mark for his master David runs into a Guardian named Beka. Beka seems to have something about her that draws David in. David soon finds himself in a twisted circle of secrets, and both sides seem to have a hand it them.

Let me start off by saying I think this might be the first romance I have ever read that was told from the males point of view. It is a risky move because you have to be able to capture your readers with a love story, but if a man is to sensitive you can lose your female readers interest. Lynn Rush pulled it off, you get sucked into the love story, but David is not to sensitive where you question his sexuality and manliness. I think it is because David isn't battling if he loves Beka, he is battling the demon inside of him.

My favorite types of romance novels are the ones with star-crossed lovers. Something about two people that love each other and cannot have each other just captures me. Wasteland is the perfect example of star-crossed lovers. Beka an angel, and David a demon fall in love, and can under no circumstances be together, yet they can't shake this feeling that they are meant to be, and I loved every minute of it.

The star-crossed lovers is not all that sucked me into this novel. The story itself is brilliant and original, every time I thought I had the entire thing figured out a new event would unfold that would leave me baffled. Wasteland has a mystery within the story. The novel hints that something else is going on but you never fully know everything until the end. Once you reach the end the story hits an all time high. The ending battle scenes are epic, and you get an incredible amount action that did not disappoint. Really all the battle scenes in the book are epic, but I found myself holding myself breath reading the last battle scene.

I recommend this book for mature readers. While it does have a few sex scenes none of them are really explicit.

[Jodie · Rating 4 out of 5]

From the beginning, Lynn Rush not only left me, but has also left the main character named David, a little confused as to why he was made to attend such a party with girls throwing themselves at him, trying to release his other side. His evil side. Was it just a coincidence that he was released from his sentence two-hundred and fifty years early? He's thinking not, and I'm thinking the same way he is.
David isn't regular like you or me. He is half human, half demon. Over four hundred years old. Wow right?! And to top things off, he has been fighting that inner demon all this time, because to give into it, would mean to let it consume him and take over. He doesn't want that one bit. So, with that being said, all these years, David has fought to avoid women at all costs. To give into the sexual desire of them would give into the demon. This is one strong man I tell you!
Now, just because he has been released from his sentence, doesn't mean he can go as he pleases. It's not like that. He still has to take orders. The orders that he has been given were to find the 'mark' which is actually a woman, and he is given very few details to go on, and even shorter time. Luckily, he has found the guardian of this 'mark'. Ready for another catch? It's good! He can't help but find something about the guardian that is just irresistible! Her name is Beka, and he ends up spending more time with her, which, yes, does lead him to what he is looking for, but he is falling for Beka, and the only way to get the girl is by killing the guardian. He can't kill her. There is too much goodness in him. Hmmm...
It is when he is told that the 'mark' isn't just supposed to be some random catch for him to bring back, but something far more than that to David. Something that can save him that gets him to thinking. What's so special about this young girl, what can she do, and how can she save him from himself?
Just when you think it's over, just when you think it's all done and the storm is calm, nothing is settled at all. Things are just getting stirred up.

[Carla-Everything Romance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review done by Carlyn, Book Monster's Reviewer

When David is released by his master from 250 years of sensory deprived captivity he is thrust into the world of life, color and touch. When he is sent to a club to locate his mark he can't keep his eyes away from a beautiful woman named Beka but he know he must not give in to his desires as it would transform him into a full demon and he wants to keep his last shred of humanity for as long as he can.
When he finds out that Beka and her brother are Guardian's, whose job it is to protect the mark he was sent to retrieve, David has to decide whether to betray Beka, his master or himself.

I really enjoyed this book and couldn't read the pages fast enough. David has had a really crappy life. His mother sold him to the devil before he was even born and he must do his masters bidding or he suffers for it. When he is first released from his most recent captivity he is overwhelmed and out of touch with the times but he is watched by another demon who likes nothing more than to taunt and tempt him. His reaction to Beka is beautiful as he knows he cannot touch her. He is the perfect mix of alpha male with a lot of vulnerability thrown in. Beka is so different from him she is everything that is good and doesn't have any problem with protecting herself. She is intrigued by David as soon as she meets him but she doesn't know he is a demon. When David saves Beka and betrays his own kind he realizes he must try to find a way to get out of his contract and he realizes that his mark could be the key.

This book had it all. Action, romance, mystery and kept me guessing until the last minute. It is beautifully written and so easy to follow that it was a pleasure to read. I would recommend this to anyone who likes, angels, demons, action, romance and a story that will keep you up till 3am because you just couldn't put it down!

[Kristina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wasteland is more than a book about angels vs demons, good vs evil. The story line is so much deeper than that. It's about what would you do to protect the ones you love and the choices we have. If given the opportunity, would you convert from good to evil?

The book is about two great characters, David the 400 year old half-demon, and Beka the even older Guardian. The pair has fantastic chemistry, but of course, there are obstacles to overcome before they can be together, even though they're supposed to be enemies. There are some major twists thrown throughout the story as well as a lot of action. The sensual scenes are tame, but swoon worthy nonetheless!

While the story line is good, it's the writing that really makes this story. It is told from David the Half Demon's point of view. At first, I wasn't sure. This is the only book I can ever remember reading in a guy's perspective, but Lynn did a wonderful job. The story is set in Arizona, which I had the pleasure of visiting in the beginning of June, and I felt like I was there again. She does a wonderful job with descriptions and painting a picture for the reader to see. The writing is refreshing. It's the perfect mixture of slang from the present and old fashioned dialogue that makes it believable that these characters are so ancient. Watching David acclimate back into society after being secluded was a very interesting part of the story.

Along with great main characters, the secondary characters are just as good! I'm excited to find that book two is about Russel. Hopefully we'll visit a few more characters from book one in future books. I'd love to see one about Jessica.

I would recommend this book to anyone that would like a good angel vs demons story from a male POV! :)

[Destiny · Rating 5 out of 5]

David is a half-demon born under a blood contract signed by his human mother. This contract has bound him for centuries to his Master. David has the choice to obey his Master and give in to his Demon side or he can choose goodness and live in the light. He is a very tortured soul from page one. However, you can’t help but enjoy his personality and snarky comments.

David is the narrator of Wasteland and it was really refreshing to see another novel from a male POV because that is so rare. Lynn Rush does a phenomenal job with character and world building in this novel! David and Rebeka have intense chemistry together and their romance develops at a natural pace, yet is complicated by the fact that if David gives in, he will succumb to his dark, Demon side. This doesn’t sound so hard, but he has just undergone years of sensory deprivation for not retrieving his last target. The problem here: Rebeka is his new target’s guardian.

Lynn Rush adds complex layers to Wasteland to keep it from being the usual boy-meets-girl, one-of-them-happens-to-be-a -“monster” type of paranormal romance. In fact, it’s the opposite. The story here is almost believable. Her writing is vivid, descriptive, and the dilemmas the characters face are maddeningly real. Yes, David is a Demon and Beka is a Guardian, but that intensifies their forbidden love. I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough to see what was going to be thrown at them next.

If you are looking for a paranormal romance, love Demon stories, and want an action-packed read, look no further than Wasteland. I am anxiously awaiting the second Wasteland book to see where Lynn Rush takes everyone on the next adventure!

[*P*u*r*p*l*e* Masochist · Rating 3 out of 5]

These past few days I didn't have much time for reading, I had so much to do,so many places to visit:), so I read almost every day a few pages of this book,even forgetting about some information, because of tiredness which spoiled my reading and I don't know if I'm a trustworthy reviewer because of that when it comes to this book.

The story was interesting (I love books with angels in it as main characters), but all in all it has its ups and downs. The writing was a bit too poetic, too romantic at times, the main characters lacked a bit more spirit and I don't know- I guess BDB and IAD series ruined me for these kind of books;), because I like my heroes and heroines a bit more on the rough side, a bit more edgy, not evil, but also not 'pure goodness'-if you know what I mean.

My biggest issue with this book is concerned with the main protagonist- the half-breed David. The book is written from his perspective, but through most of the book my thoughts were likeoh please, like a guy would say that or think that way.
The way he thought, the things he said-it felt more like woman's thoughts or feelings.
I don't know-you just had that constant feeling that the author is a woman who is trying to write from a man's POV.

Maybe the author should have written the story from Beka's POV. It would probably be easier and more realistic. I also felt that some situations were a bit rushed and lacked more details- like this instant love between David and Beka etc.

I loved the idea of Jessica as Merus and Russel was a pretty funny character too. All in on- this was a nice read, but for my taste it lacked a bit roughness;).