Supernova

The Supernova Saga #1

by Crystal Ward

Everyone is born for a purpose, and for Evania Laylen, that vocation is about to make itself known.

Guilt ridden after the death of her parents, Evania sinks into a deep depression. Living only for the addiction, and the man who saved her, she gives up on life. That is until the enigmatic Desmond Kane enters and shows her the life she was born to live. Thrust into a secret, action-packed world of good versus evil, Evania must rid her life of the addictive temptation, prepare her body for battle, and learn to embrace the possible in a world of impossible.

Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Paranormal, Paranormal Romance, Urban Fantasy

262 pages, ebook

First published September 7, 2011

Reviews

[Tina Carreiro · Rating 5 out of 5]

Supernova!

For me, first person narrative is a hard sell and it has to be good to reel me in and keep my interested. Crystal Ward did just that. This isn’t your cookie-cutter story about love and light. The story starts dark and that’s where it grips you. You slide right into to Evania’s darkness. You can feel Evania's emotional torment and how it suffocates her just to breathe.

We follow Evania on adventure of discovery where a fight to die and fight to live battle inside her. This is where we meet the captivating story line of the Guardians. We meet more characters and their back-stories alone are deep and well written. You get an instant connection with their pain and start waving your Guardian flag for a victories finish. The good guys always win, right?

When Evania’s true powers were discovered, I was blown away by the author’s imagination. The Guardians have incredible abilities and they are really cool. There is evil in the book as well, called Adversaries and Equals both are dangerous enemies. There are some very cool fight scenes, some twists, and surprises. Entwined in all this there is a beautiful love story that shows you, “the possible in a world of impossible.” I highly recommended, Supernova and don’t forget the teaser for the next installment, Tsunami!

I just hope they find “other” uses for the plastic wrap. ;)

[Phyllis Seibert · Rating 5 out of 5]

Supernova is a paranormal roller coaster. Evania must learn to give up her addictions in order to find her purpose in life. Can she learn to let go of her grief, her drug addiction, and her desire to die? Supernova takes you through the dark, the light, the love, and finding the purpose of life. Crystal Ward, first-time author, takes the reader into the story and lets you feel what the characters are feeling. Crystal takes you on a ride with many twists and turns and even a loop the loop. Just when the reader thinks that they can relax, Crystal throws in a hairpin curve that you were not expecting. I love this book and would recommend it to everyone.

[Brenda Hastings · Rating 5 out of 5]

There wasn't a single part of this book that I did not love! The combination of fantasy and real life was simply perfect. Every chapter brought on new and exciting adventures that left me not wanting to put this book down. Excellent reads if you are interested in romance, fantasy, adventure, and everything in between!! Honestly, I can't recommend this book enough!! Excellent job Crystal!!! :D

[Monique James · Rating 5 out of 5]

Crystal has managed to create her own paranormal world, which is difficult in the days of angels, vampires, and zombies. Not only did she create the world but she captivates the reader pulling them in and making them want more! If you love paranormal and all looking for something new and refreshing check out this novel. The novel touches on some subjects that we've all faced, loss, addiction, and love. Give this one a chance you will not be disappointed! I can't wait for the sequel!

[Fatima · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've always believed in this one notion , that everyone is born for a purpose and death doesnt come to you till you have fulfilled that purpose of yours . Supernova by Crystal ward just amplified my belief . I have never read anything like it and can proudly say that its one of the best books i've read this year and i'm soo glad i did . I loved each and every aspect of this book . Right from the cover to the sneak peak at the second installment of this book .

Cover- speak : Amazing cover !!! I can just keep looking at it and not say a word . It has a very soothing effect if you ask me . Although i'm unable to decipher it , i feel it has a great meaning . And the moon in the background with that tree in the middle of the water , its just magnificent .

Supernova is the story of Evania . A girl so troubled , i couldnt help but cry for her . Evania is living on the wrong side of life . Dependent on drugs to ease her pain , struggling to cope up with the death of her parents and feeling guilty about the fact that she survived and her parents didnt , she comes across as all kinds of wrong . Until she meets Desmond . Desmond walks into Evania's life with a meaning and a purpose , something that she longs for . He tell's her that he will show her " the possible in a world of impossible " , and trust me he does .

Things i loved about this book :

As mentioned earlier , there's nothing about this book that i didnt like or enjoy . Everything was real and true to its purest form . However , there are certain points that i would love to highlight .

1) Gripping storyline : Supernova manages to keep you glued and reading till you reach the loast page . I've across many books that are slow paced and start off as tad boring but then pace up and get interesting . But Supernova ai'nt like that . Supernova manages to struck the right chord from page 1 and leaves you wanting for more . Readers are immediately thrown into a downward spiral of Evania's life , her downfall caused by the death of her parents to her evolution as a Guardian .

2) Descriptive detailing : Crystal ward is according to me , the ' next best thing ' literally ! The lady has a panache for giving the readers a feel of reality , making it look has though you re the one feeling , hearing and seeing it . Emotions such as joy , pain , angst , relief never felt this real , not while reading a book atleast . I would love to go into details with this one but i may end up giving away spoilers and i dont want to do that .

3) Characters : I loved all the characters that were a part of this book . Desmond and Evania being my favourite , i cant help but mention that the other characters too felt real . The stories of life they've lived was something true , something that could have happened to someone in reality . Thereby making it easier to connect with . Words are'nt enough to describe what Evania and Desmond were all about . Never ever have i felt such an instant connection with any female lead that i have read sbout . Reading and getting to know Evania was an absolute pleasure . And Desmond , well i just hope i he turns out to be a reality than a figment of the authors imagination .

4) Semblance of life : I know its probably going to start gettin repetative , but this book is just sooo real . As i've mentioned earlier , that i believe that everyone's born for a purpose , and sooner or later in your life you'll eventually know what your purpose is . That doesnt mean that all of us have to save the world or anything . A purpose in life could be something simple , like always being there for a friend who needs you , or being a ray of hope and love in a persons life , a person who can turn the frown upside down and make someone smile , or a helping hand in the hour of need even if its a total stranger who needs it . Life is full of exciting surprises that unravel themselves one step at a time . All these feelings and emotions are folded into one in this amazing book . As s reader you cant help but understand that there is an underlying note in this story . A note that just resonates with the supernatural effect that the author has used as a foundation .

Parting thoughts : My views on life just got broader !!! LOL .. But its true . So many thoughts and questions about life and what will happen further in the story of Supernova have rendered me speechless , making me lose my chain of thoughts . The life and journey of Evania was not just emotional but also inspirational . Every one of us carry baggages of our past mistakes and experiences , but in order to experience a new and a happy life it is very important to let go of those baggages so that we make a new beginning with new-ness in our life . Agreed , the pain and strain of carrying those baggages would never cease to exist reminding us of our choices and experiences but they'll always help us grow and teach us things education may never teach . This is what i've learnt from Supernova .

Soundtrack Check : For me a story is incomplete without the right songs . I mean i never read witout my ipod on . So the songs that i could associate with this book were :
- Sia : Breathe me ( Evania's life in the first few chapters )
- 311 : Amber and love song ( intimate moments between Evania and Desmond )
- Switchfoot : War inside ( Theme of the whole book and certain fight sequences )

I recommend this book to anyone and everyone who loves reality and its truest form with a touch of supernatural . This is a must read !!! I cant wait to read 'Tsunami ' , the second book in the Supernova series .. Go for it , you'll definitely love it !

[Carly Wallace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hea y'all Anne here I've just finished reading Supernova Saga by Crystal Ward, and I can only hope that I am the first one to say that this book is an awe-inspiring journey. "I will show you the possible in a world of impossible", this little quote simply and elegantly outlines this masterpiece. The idea behind this book is unique and refreshing it has amazing power and intrigue caught up in every single one of its pages. The book has a musical tone in like to a symphony the scenes, characters, plots, all of work together like a fine melody that will bring a chill to your bones and tears to your eyes. I lost my emotions a few times in this book, the scenes are so detailed I swear I was watching a movie not reading a book that's how perfect it was written my mind was able to start a picture and keep it going the whole time. The storyline is remarkable and stunning each character is flawed and riveting. I loved that the main character Evania (exquisite name) not only suffered a tragic loss but because of that her entire world shifted to the breaking point. At just the right time a savior comes in and opens a tiny ray of hope in her bleak and deteriorating world. When self inflicted fate is at hand only love can bring her back, no matter if it's true love or the love of a dear best friend it can save her if she opens up and drops her wall she's been hiding behind for 5 years. I love how all the characters not only played off of each other very well they were also molded into one another, where one was flawed another persevered, when one pushed 6 pushed back. It is a truly amazing book for anyone to read who has ever struggled with loss and looks to books to escape the pain. Go with Evania on her journey to fulfill her purpose in life what she was born to do. Fall in love with every turn of the page and let your heart melt as Evania falls in love after years of hiding from it, see Desmond for the first time as Evania meets him though he has always been there for her. I could talk about this book for days to come and I will and I not only highly recommend this book I insist upon it, you must all get your copy now and be swept away in this one of a kind tale of light in the darkest hours, good winning over evil, and love being the glue that holds people together. 5 out of 5 stars for Supernova book 1 in the Supernova Saga..

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let me start this review by saying I didn't really think about reading this book when I first heard about it. Nothing against the author by any means but it just didn't seem like my cup of tea. The author liked Can't Put It Down on the Facebook page and then we became Facebook friends and every day I was seeing posts about the book. My curiosity started growing. Then she asked for reviewers and I was all *waving hand wildly*. Needless to say, she sent me the file and once I started it I couldn't escape this story. It never lags, it sucks you right in, and very well written. The characters are great as is their chemistry with one another. Disappointed when I reached the last page, I was stoked to see the beginning of book two included. Yeah!! I honestly can not wait to read more.

I really felt for Evania, I mean here she looses her parents and is suddenly all alone, with the exception of her priest friend Daniel, working her part time job at the same library her mother worked at and living with her memories of her mother and father in their home. She can't function with out her little pills and thinks she feels the presence of her mom or dad. Enter the sexy (at least in my head he is) Desmond Kane, who is full of secrets and comes to be Evania's savior. After a mysterious man enters Evania's house and tries to kill her, Desmond takes her to his house to keep her safe, after all Evania is destined for something far greater than her wildest dreams.

I really did feel like I was right there in this story. Supernova is not your typical good vs. evil paranormal read. New, different and refreshing that will suck you in until the very last page.

[Danielle Zwissler · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love this book. Evania is a broken woman, whom without her friendship of Daniel, wouldn't have made it as far as she had. Until she meets Desmond. A man, whom is way more than he seem, and takes her life from depressing and going nowhere to turning her into the person that she is destined to be. I love the dark, deep, story that Crystal tells. Her knowledge on the addiction, and the love that we feel for her characters is deep. I felt, so many times, like I was in the story. Great book, the teaser is awesome, too... I'm looking forward to the entire Saga.

[Angie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Having read so many mediocre indie published books the past two years, my expectations of such works have regrettably nosedived. For every one fantastic indie author I read, there would undoubtedly be at least four who would bitterly disappoint. I started reading Supernova with low expectations, but the further I read, the more impressed I was. The story in itself wasn’t that interesting or exciting, but the writing, the characters and the world-building was done astonishingly well! Although I probably won’t be reading the rest of this series as it just didn’t intrigue me enough to continue with it (mostly because I don’t do so well with angst, and that made up a huge part of this first book), I would definitely want to read anything else written by this very talented author.

I can’t express enough how well these characters were formed. Every aspect of each character was explored and fleshed out to the max. Each character complemented the other and secondary characters stood out as much as the MCs. There’s very little action in this story as it is mainly character-growth driven, which of course means loads of angst and emotions. That, unfortunately, is what made me lose interest in the plot. I personally don’t do well with angst or emotion-driven plots. I’m more of an action and fast-paced-get-to-the-point storyline kind of girl. However, for readers who enjoy getting to know every single emotional degree of their characters, it doesn’t get any better than this.

The world-building is solid and imaginative, and it was a breeze immersing myself in Evania and Desmond’s world. A sense of realism trails throughout the storyline with Evania regularly returning to her home to attend to pesky little things such as bills and home maintenance. I actually enjoyed that she did that because it kept everything real and made the plot more believable. Also, I loved how Daniel featured in the storyline and how – even though it was quite sad at the end – he played a big role in Evania’s character growth throughout.

What stood out for me is that this is a nice clean read which will appeal to most readers. Fans of romance will definitely enjoy this as the romance is sweet and cheesy and rainbows and butterflies, and as annoying as that can be sometimes, the author really makes it work. For those who like their reads to be vampire-free, just a little warning that there is a vampire element to this story, but it makes up a miniscule part of the plot.

Supernova was a terrific read which I finished in a day. The writing is straightforward, concise and original, and though the plot moves at a snail’s pace, I appreciated the time the author took to root these characters in the first book of this series. The dialogue also played a massive role in my enjoyment of this book as the banter between characters was fun and refreshing, and really helped me to connect with them. One aspect I found a little frustrating at times, though, were how most of Evania’s questions were either avoided or she was told she had to wait for the answers until a later stage. With that being the case, Daniel, for one, never got around to answering the one question Evania was constantly asking him.

I might not have found the plot that interesting, but the author’s style of writing is rhythmic and flowed effortlessly; engaging me as much as necessary as to not want to stop reading before I got to the ending. All in all, this is definitely a worthwhile read.

[Autumn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Supernova was an amazing read. I am now a Noviar fan. I give Supernova 10 stars instead of 5. I was truly amazed on the writing, everything seemed to go together in this story, from Evania's lost of her parents, to her addiction, to finding out she has a purpose in life, to finding love.

Crystal Ward, captured everything you could from Evania's point of view. Sometimes a writer will write about heartache, and loss and you don't quite feel it. Crystal made me feel what Evania was feeling, I got teary-eyed when Evania got another loss in her life which I never saw coming.

Supernova is not your normal paranormal read, there is light and darkness, love and loss, good and evil. You will really fall in love with this breathtaking story, and you will not be able to put it down.

I can not wait to read book two in this series, even though I just finished this book I feel myself having withdrawals by not being able to read the second book yet.

[Eric Pickup · Rating 2 out of 5]

overall it was a decent read for me. I'm not going to read the series however. I just don't find it that interesting. I didn't really care for the rate of character development or the main character or supporting ones to be honest. I'm sure that lots of folks enjoy the author, the content and the story, unfortunately I don't.

[ParaYourNormal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reviewed by Courtney Whetzel
4 out of 5 stars

Ward’s story is original, with exciting paranormal elements, intriguing characters and a touch of romance.

Read the entire review at ParaYourNormal

[Twi'shyne]

Beautiful writing. I'm In love with Desmond!!

[Janysa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ohhh Desmond:)

[Xara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let's say I am a huge fan of Miss Meyer and I heart Edward but DESMOND KANE is one hell of a love interest..... I've totally fallen for him....... he's perfect......everything a girl wants in a guy!!!!!! =)swoon!!!!!!!
Now for the story..... I can't seem to find any fault with it.Its flows smoothly with the perfect blend of Paranormal,grief,romance and action.
Bravo Miss Ward.. I am totally your fan.
As for the Heroine,LET ME SAY,Evania is the "Ultimate Be dazzler" =P
Strong,gorgeous,determined..... there's a long list of adjectives that I can associate with her.... she's just fantastic.She had to go through hell to become like this but than she emerges out of everything like the gem she is.I loved her name so much <3
The chemistry b/w Evania and Des was the heart of Supernova and it sizzled all the way to the end.They had a beautiful relationship full of understanding, love and acceptance.Adore them and would love to read more about their future life.
Last but not the least the secondary characters were so awesome I cant even begin to describe it.Especially Des's Family of guardians.I loved every one of them.I loved Evania and her priest friend Daniel's relationship.Their Friendship was so alive and beautiful.Daniel was adorable and I want to have a friend like him and my heart cried for him at the end =(
Cant wait to read Tsunami! cheers =)

[Dawn Jayne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Supernonva was a superb read! The beginning grabbed me right me away and the story didn't let go. Lots of great characters, tons of emotions and energy. Told from the point of view of Evania, a young woman with a dark past, the story follow her journey as she discovers her place as a mysterious (and very cool) Guardian. Her friendship with the Priest, Daniel, was touching, and her unique relationship with Desmond and the rest of the Guardian gang was great fun to watch evolve. I adored Jackson, the bi-polar hottie.
Evania, by the way, had the best birthday EVER! :D

There were suprises and some wild turns that left me utterly shocked, in good ways! I didn't know what was coming next and made me want to keep turning (clicking) the pages. I'm trying to be very careful as to not give anything away so I don't spoil things, ha!

There were very intriguing backstories for each character and I enjoyed that each chapter had an individual title. Evania has some super cool abilities, as do the other Guardians. And their foes, the Adversaries and Equals, were dangerous enemies. LOTS of great fights! Highly recommended and the teaser chapter for Tsunami was a wonderful present.
I will not look at plastic wrap the same ever again!

[Reena Jacobs · Rating 4 out of 5]

Decent enough. This was one of those books which had the potential to be outstanding. The story line was somewhat unique, but had at the same time seemed to borrow ideas from other stories. The book had a lot happening emotion wise. However, I wasn't invested in the characters enough to really empathize with the trauma they faced in the story.

My feelings are mixed on this one. It wasn't disappointing, but it also wasn't spectacular. I'm not sure if I'll continue with this series. Like I said, they story was decent, but I never reached the point where I felt I had to know more about the characters. They just didn't draw me in the way I wanted.

Still, 3.5 - 4 stars out of 5. I wouldn't hesitate to say, "try it out." I think others may relate better to the characters and story line than I did, cause it certainly wasn't a bad read.

[Gabby (What's Beyond Forks?) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Full Review at: What's Beyond Forks?

After the loss of her parents, Evania has sunk into a world of depression and addiction. She's given up on life, and doesn't realize how strong she really is. I could really feel her hopelessness through the story. If it wasn't for her best friend, Daniel, I don't think she would have kept it together as long as she did. I really liked Daniel. He was just what she needed. I think she was what he needed too. Then we have Desmond. He's handsome, mysterious, and those eyes. I know, I know! I didn't actually see his eyes, but through the author's words, they are so easy to envision. I enjoyed the paranormal aspects. They were unique. The story did leave me with a few questions, but I'm hoping they will be answered in the next book.

[Dana · Rating 5 out of 5]

An interesting story in which the main character goes through a journey from despair and pain to love and hope. As the character runs through the gamut of emotions, you get to feel it with her. I felt her sadness, I laughed with her, wanted Daniel as a friend, and even fell in love with Desmond.

I liked that it was a unique paranormal story. It focused on guardians, human beings born with a unique gifts and a mission to save the world. I enjoyed the fresh ideas, and look forward to the next book.

[Karen Hayes-Mitchell · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked the story premise behind the book, but I wanted more. While the introduction of the main character was interesting, it was a bit drawn out. It wasn't until chapter 8 that the inciting incident occurred. Each chapter pulled my attention to the next but I would have liked to see more action. While I understand that this is just the first book in a series, I would have liked the "final" battle be more of an issue, rather than the "good" guys seeing how she handled herself. I will be reading the next book though. The characters are interesting and I want to see what happens next.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is nothing that I can say about Supernova that will do it justice... Desmond... yum to the third power. If I could have hacked off Evania and took him for myself that would have been the only thing! Great story, great read, I am intrigued to find out what happens in the next installment. Could have done with some pink parts, but I get it, it's a paranormal... Do better next time, won't ya? Loved it.

[Stacy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed the fact that it wasn't your typical YA Paranormal romance... could have done without the saran wrap though. ;)

[Slaresco · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book! Can't wait for the third book of the series to publish!

[Mindy/fangedmom · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVED THIS BOOK!!!

[Kim]

I fell in love with the storyline. Desmond Kane should be real and I am so excited to own and read all four books. Crystal Ward is brilliant and a great author. Keep writing and creating, girl!!

[Bayli]

Free on Amazon
11/25/12

[Stacy Sabala · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Review- Supernova by Crystal Ward

Evania is the character of this story. She has lost both her parents and basically retreated from life. The only person she truly interacts with is Father Daniel, who saved her that fateful night. She thinks constantly about joining her parents and resorts to pills to get her through her days. Her life has dwindled into sitting on her back deck thinking about her own death. However a strange man appears where the author assures the reader that Evania can’t really take her own life.
The reader learns along with Evania that she is special and enters a world she never knew existed. Desmond Kane enters her life in an interesting way. I like the scene the author writes about the first confrontation they have outside her house. He is so irritating because he wouldn’t give her a straight answer to any of her questions except his name. The whole relationship that follows is cryptic. He can’t tell her much in turn means the reader doesn’t know much. You become Evania’s shadow as she stumbles through the changes in her life. She finds out she is in danger and has to go with Desmond. She meets others like her, a guardian. Throughout the story, the author throws surprising information at the reader and Evania. You learn about each character’s story which leads them to where they are now. I also liked how they were paired as mates. Evania is so clueless at first. Then she is confused. She still has a strong desire to be with her parents. That was frustrating for me to read. She refused to let go of the pain, even though she was offered a purpose and more people to care for her. I truly wanted to shake her constantly as I read this.
Her mate turns out to be an interesting match and the things they have to do to make their relationship work is a bit unorthodox. It is, however, original. Evania comes through in the end, just as I hoped she would. Can’t wait to see what happens next. I give it a 4 out of 5.

[Laurie · Rating 1 out of 5]

I only read this because I know the girl on the cover. The plot wasn't terrible but unfortunately I can't say the same for the writing.

[Tina Buranis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book the characters the setting, Crystal draw you into this world from the first paragraph it's a must read

[Cat · Rating 2 out of 5]

Slow moving plot and a mediocre heroine lower this book to 2 stars.

While I can only imagine the trials of someone loosing both parents in a car accident - and being sole survivor - is incredibly depressing. Wanting to be with your deceased parents, especially when you were very close to them and you feel like the accident was your fault to begin with, can definitely lead to a downward spiral and I think that's natural. What I had a hard time sympathizing with was Evania's logic. She can't commit suicide because then she wouldn't go to heaven...so she becomes addicted to drugs and doesn't talk to anyone except the person who saved her from downing - and even that's on a limited basis.

Anyhow, most of the book is Evania keeping secrets from various people (even those who are supposedly closest to her). That gets repetitive and frustrating. I also thought she was dense and could have made connections much sooner and thus prevented some crap from happening.

Not sure if I want to read the next book, as the plot moved so incredibly slow and the villains were barely there - more of a hypothetical threat, if anything.