What do you think?
Rate this book
Rogues Shifter #1
Rebirth
Having always felt like a freak of nature, Sixteen year old Jackie's life is turned upside down when she discovers that she's not human, but instead part of a large supernatural community. Because of her newly discovered magical abilities, she's picked to train with a group of powerful young shapeshifters who become her close friends. Their purpose is to protect the vulnerable shifter population from the more violent supernatural beings that inhabit this terrifying and exciting world.
During her training, she meets Garrett, a magically powerful vampire who teaches her to use her unique gifts and then manages to steal her heart. Backed by their team of rogues, Jackie and Garrett face unexpected dangers, finding strength in their magic and their commitment to a life together.
During her training, she meets Garrett, a magically powerful vampire who teaches her to use her unique gifts and then manages to steal her heart. Backed by their team of rogues, Jackie and Garrett face unexpected dangers, finding strength in their magic and their commitment to a life together.
251 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 27, 2011
669 people are currently reading
2319 people want to read
About the author
Gayle Parness
24 books391 followersGayle's a former theatre major who remains a theatre geek to this day. She's positive her love of reading fantasy and listening to show music has added to the fun she has when she writes her stories and populates them with crazy characters. She's determined to stick with the paranormal genre as those characters are brighter (and darker) than life.
Visit her website at http://www.gayleparness.com and sign up for her newsletter where you'll hear about her latest releases and have lots of chances to win goodies galore.
Visit her website at http://www.gayleparness.com and sign up for her newsletter where you'll hear about her latest releases and have lots of chances to win goodies galore.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
November 16, 2025
I found Rebirth an enjoyable, fun and fast, new adult, urban fantasy read. The plot is a unique blend of vampire, fae and shifter and not something I’ve ever read before. Overall, it had all the makings of a perfect read for me.
Jackie is a teen who thinks she has a mostly typical outcast life until she wakes up as in the middle of the woods and discovers she is a shifter. Taken from her foster family, Jackie focuses on escape but the more she learns from her kidnapper the more she discovers his outlandish story of shifters is true. But the world doesn’t stop at shifters and there is a power play within the supernatural world that leaves Jackie in the sights of a vampire queen that has her destruction on her mind.
Who wouldn't want to go from outcast and loner to heroine, popular and a leader? Interesting and intriguing but the pace of the telling is off enough that kept me from connecting and believing the transformation from loaner to sexy mate insta-romance. 3.5 stars
I received this ARC copy of Rebirth from Gayle Parness. This is my honest and voluntary review. Rebirth is set for publication April 11, 2018.
Jackie is a teen who thinks she has a mostly typical outcast life until she wakes up as in the middle of the woods and discovers she is a shifter. Taken from her foster family, Jackie focuses on escape but the more she learns from her kidnapper the more she discovers his outlandish story of shifters is true. But the world doesn’t stop at shifters and there is a power play within the supernatural world that leaves Jackie in the sights of a vampire queen that has her destruction on her mind.
Who wouldn't want to go from outcast and loner to heroine, popular and a leader? Interesting and intriguing but the pace of the telling is off enough that kept me from connecting and believing the transformation from loaner to sexy mate insta-romance. 3.5 stars
I received this ARC copy of Rebirth from Gayle Parness. This is my honest and voluntary review. Rebirth is set for publication April 11, 2018.
April 27, 2015
I sooooooo wanted to give this more. I really did. Good storyline, interesting characters, some action..but I did not make it past 67% unfortunately. The "love" between the two main characters was unbelievable and ridiculous. She is a 17 year old child, he's like some several hundred year old vamp. The last scene I read where the team was getting berated like a bunch of toddlers was enough for me to throw in the towel. This book is very childish, although there are a Few curse words and some morbidity to make you think it might be more. Well, it's not. It's lame.
September 19, 2021
Definitely 🔸 4 stars🔸
March 5, 2015
Goodreads Synopsis: Sixteen year old Jackie Crawford is a freak; at least that’s what she’s always thought about herself. She’s too strong, too fast and her senses are way too acute. Not knowing her real parents and passed around from family to family, she’s never fit into the mundane world she’s grown up in, making it impossible for her to put down real roots or form permanent friendships.
So waking up in the forest in the middle of the night covered in blood and having no memory of how she got there, pisses her off and makes her even more confused. Who is this guy who’s kidnapped her and tells her that she is more than human and needs to be trained? And who’s the hot guy in the room next door who she’s supposed to train with? And why has Garrett, a compellingly seductive vampire, been her silent guardian for the last few years, saving her life when she was brutally attacked by thugs?
As the days pass and Jackie is confronted with the strange truth of who and what she is, she begins to put the pieces of her splintered life back together to feel whole for the very first time. Becoming acquainted with a world spinning with a mysterious energy and populated by shapeshifters,vampires, weres, and even the powerful fae, Jackie learns to pull strength from the magic, her new friendships and even love.
My Review: This book had a rough start for me. First of all, she was way too trusting of someone she’s assumed kidnapped her. The writing style was not for me, and also the characters seemed a little bland. And the something changed. The story started getting exciting, and the characters started developing. I’m not sure if the writing style changed, but it did start showing us what was happening instead of telling us, which is always good. As always there are things I liked and disliked, but they were pretty even. A few here, a few there; like how Jackie was so trusting of someone she’d assumed kidnapped her. I get that you need to comply with him, but she seemed to trust him way too quickly. And also, why was she so special? That wasn’t explained. It just kind of happened. Just out of no where she’s shape shifting all over the place, but why? And how come she gets all these special skills? Why do all the boys love her? I mean I get that she’s the main character and everything, but it wasn’t really explained why she was so special. It’s a good idea for a story though, and it played out pretty well after the beginning scenes, and the story definitely grew on me. I absolutely loved that just when it got exciting and where most books ended this book continued, and with that the characters continued to grow and develop. It just keeps getting more and more interesting. The cover isn’t my favourite part of the book, but it’s what’s inside that counts, right? I didn’t really like how Jackie just turned into a housewife after moving into Garrett’s house, but I guess that’s what happens when you’re… Seventeen? That can’t be right. She just dropped everything to do whatever he wanted, and the whole time he treated her like a child. I didn’t really like that there were faerie dogs, although it could be interesting, it just seemed kind of out of place in this story, and I also didn’t really like the end of the book that much, but I’m sure I’d read the second one if I get the chance. The cover wasn’t my favourite, but it’s what’s on the inside that counts, right? The foreshadowing was a little bit obvious and the end of the book seemed a little rushed, but all in all it was a good story, even with the rocky start it had with me. Check it out if you get the chance. Thanks for reading.
(Radioactivebookreviews.wordpress.com)
So waking up in the forest in the middle of the night covered in blood and having no memory of how she got there, pisses her off and makes her even more confused. Who is this guy who’s kidnapped her and tells her that she is more than human and needs to be trained? And who’s the hot guy in the room next door who she’s supposed to train with? And why has Garrett, a compellingly seductive vampire, been her silent guardian for the last few years, saving her life when she was brutally attacked by thugs?
As the days pass and Jackie is confronted with the strange truth of who and what she is, she begins to put the pieces of her splintered life back together to feel whole for the very first time. Becoming acquainted with a world spinning with a mysterious energy and populated by shapeshifters,vampires, weres, and even the powerful fae, Jackie learns to pull strength from the magic, her new friendships and even love.
My Review: This book had a rough start for me. First of all, she was way too trusting of someone she’s assumed kidnapped her. The writing style was not for me, and also the characters seemed a little bland. And the something changed. The story started getting exciting, and the characters started developing. I’m not sure if the writing style changed, but it did start showing us what was happening instead of telling us, which is always good. As always there are things I liked and disliked, but they were pretty even. A few here, a few there; like how Jackie was so trusting of someone she’d assumed kidnapped her. I get that you need to comply with him, but she seemed to trust him way too quickly. And also, why was she so special? That wasn’t explained. It just kind of happened. Just out of no where she’s shape shifting all over the place, but why? And how come she gets all these special skills? Why do all the boys love her? I mean I get that she’s the main character and everything, but it wasn’t really explained why she was so special. It’s a good idea for a story though, and it played out pretty well after the beginning scenes, and the story definitely grew on me. I absolutely loved that just when it got exciting and where most books ended this book continued, and with that the characters continued to grow and develop. It just keeps getting more and more interesting. The cover isn’t my favourite part of the book, but it’s what’s inside that counts, right? I didn’t really like how Jackie just turned into a housewife after moving into Garrett’s house, but I guess that’s what happens when you’re… Seventeen? That can’t be right. She just dropped everything to do whatever he wanted, and the whole time he treated her like a child. I didn’t really like that there were faerie dogs, although it could be interesting, it just seemed kind of out of place in this story, and I also didn’t really like the end of the book that much, but I’m sure I’d read the second one if I get the chance. The cover wasn’t my favourite, but it’s what’s on the inside that counts, right? The foreshadowing was a little bit obvious and the end of the book seemed a little rushed, but all in all it was a good story, even with the rocky start it had with me. Check it out if you get the chance. Thanks for reading.
(Radioactivebookreviews.wordpress.com)
March 15, 2018
Solid 3.5 Stars
While I thought this more geared towards a YA/New Adult reader, I thought it was well paced and interesting. I liked the main character and the surrounding characters. I also enjoyed that where tension was part of the plot, communication really smoothed out the troubles between the parties.
Jacqueline could have been whiney and woe is me but she really adapted well to the changes and challenges in her life. The secondary characters were well rounded and not typical, which really helped keep the book fresh. As a reader I'm intrigued what will happen with the rest of the series and between the other characters as well.
The plot was well thought out and unique. While many books have been written about shifters and other classes of Supes, I thought this still felt fresh and fun, while still being suspenseful. The romance was not overwhelmingly fast and handled well.
Overall I enjoyed the start of this series, and would recommend it to a NA/ YA audience, or as a cleaner romance.
I received a copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
While I thought this more geared towards a YA/New Adult reader, I thought it was well paced and interesting. I liked the main character and the surrounding characters. I also enjoyed that where tension was part of the plot, communication really smoothed out the troubles between the parties.
Jacqueline could have been whiney and woe is me but she really adapted well to the changes and challenges in her life. The secondary characters were well rounded and not typical, which really helped keep the book fresh. As a reader I'm intrigued what will happen with the rest of the series and between the other characters as well.
The plot was well thought out and unique. While many books have been written about shifters and other classes of Supes, I thought this still felt fresh and fun, while still being suspenseful. The romance was not overwhelmingly fast and handled well.
Overall I enjoyed the start of this series, and would recommend it to a NA/ YA audience, or as a cleaner romance.
I received a copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 5, 2023
This read like it was written by a teenager, possibly a church camp kid from the emphasis on inst-love and mating before sex. The main character just happens to be extremely gifted as both a shifter and magic user, and of course, several of the hot guys in the book all flirt with her. It's a pet peeve of mine when main characters never have to work hard or make intelligent decisions, yet everything turns out fine? The 17-year-old main character makes juvenile decisions that lead to dangerous situations multiple times, and her several-hundred-years-old boyfriend gets mad at her, and the dynamics are weird since he's possessive (of course, since he's a vampire) and there is a bit of father-daughter thing going on. This book was also boring, with nothing about the paranormal setting standing out at all. Even the side characters aren't developed enough to be fun and make up for a cardboard Mary Sue.
April 1, 2018
With a blend of fae, shifters, vampires they all came out of the woodwork in this tale, at first I was a bit puzzled as to what was happening but as I read along I got it, an interesting and entertaining read. This shifter romance between a cheetah and a cross of vampire and cheetah is an exciting and intriguing one, with interesting characters and a good storyline.
September 26, 2021
Interesting start to fantasy series
This first tale of shifters, vampires, werewolves and fae introduces the reader to the world that Jackie suddenly finds herself in. I have read a lot of YA stories and found this enjoyable, if a little slow in the middle. A lot going on and more characters coming in all the time. Still, as I say, enjoyable.
This first tale of shifters, vampires, werewolves and fae introduces the reader to the world that Jackie suddenly finds herself in. I have read a lot of YA stories and found this enjoyable, if a little slow in the middle. A lot going on and more characters coming in all the time. Still, as I say, enjoyable.
May 19, 2017
Very Captivating
Kept me on the edge of my seat. Loved the action and problems that had to be worked out through the book
Kept me on the edge of my seat. Loved the action and problems that had to be worked out through the book
May 26, 2017
I really enjoyed this book.
It starts off a little fussy, focusing on Ethan, Jackie and Rob and it then shifts focus quite nicely to just Jackie and Garrett. The writing is good, very few grammar errors or even spelling errors.
The books a great length, or at least it feels it. Some books these days feel quite short and you almost feel cheated by spending the same money you would on a proper full length book. This doesn't feel like it and it doesn't end abrupt or even with threads hanging.
I've read the blurb on the next book so I know that there is a complete different story line compared to this book which shows how standalone this book is compared to other book series, where you HAVE to read the entire series to understand what is going on. But I could quite comfortably never touch this series again (unlikely) and feel like I know their story and be happy with it. There isn't anything drastic at the end (I won't spoil it and say what does happen) so you don't feel like "oh I now need to read the next part to get the ending to *insert big event*" Though if you enjoy this I think you feel like you should read it, to find out how Jackie and Garrett get on.
Now a big peeve of mine is a complex story with an even worse group of names to try and remember. I hate Jackie's name, it just doesn't suit her. Though I will live because at least it isn't something tragic like olde English or something very long. Garrett's name is okay, I just feel like I am misspelling it. It isn't a bad group of names I just have a personal grievance with her name, my problem I know, others may love that name.
This book will get a 5 stars quite simply because I enjoyed it. It held my attention, made me want to pick up my e-reader and read this book. It was free from the store so I didn't feel an obligation to read it which is great but I wanted to.
It starts off a little fussy, focusing on Ethan, Jackie and Rob and it then shifts focus quite nicely to just Jackie and Garrett. The writing is good, very few grammar errors or even spelling errors.
The books a great length, or at least it feels it. Some books these days feel quite short and you almost feel cheated by spending the same money you would on a proper full length book. This doesn't feel like it and it doesn't end abrupt or even with threads hanging.
I've read the blurb on the next book so I know that there is a complete different story line compared to this book which shows how standalone this book is compared to other book series, where you HAVE to read the entire series to understand what is going on. But I could quite comfortably never touch this series again (unlikely) and feel like I know their story and be happy with it. There isn't anything drastic at the end (I won't spoil it and say what does happen) so you don't feel like "oh I now need to read the next part to get the ending to *insert big event*" Though if you enjoy this I think you feel like you should read it, to find out how Jackie and Garrett get on.
Now a big peeve of mine is a complex story with an even worse group of names to try and remember. I hate Jackie's name, it just doesn't suit her. Though I will live because at least it isn't something tragic like olde English or something very long. Garrett's name is okay, I just feel like I am misspelling it. It isn't a bad group of names I just have a personal grievance with her name, my problem I know, others may love that name.
This book will get a 5 stars quite simply because I enjoyed it. It held my attention, made me want to pick up my e-reader and read this book. It was free from the store so I didn't feel an obligation to read it which is great but I wanted to.
March 6, 2016
This one actually really surprised me. I wasn't sure what to expect when I started reading it. I usually enjoy books with a paranormal theme, and this one was no exception. What surprised me is HOW MUCH I enjoyed it. I really felt that it had a bit of everything to draw me in and keep my interest. I love the characters, the story line, the magic, the action. It had good villains and great good guys. The concept was interesting and I can't wait to see what happens next in the series. It definitely left off in a good place with you wanting to know what happens next, but without it being a cliffhanger that just left you hanging. I have an idea of where the next book may lead and I think I'll really enjoy following the route it's leading. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys books about shifters, vampires, fae, werewolves, etc. It was well written and I liked it much more than expected.
December 1, 2014
This is one of the best books by far that I have read this year. By page 2 I couldn't put it down. And I really didn't want to. You get swept up and the book won't let you out till the end. I really would have rated this higher, but you know how it is LOL. The writing is perfect!!!! The characters are perfect!!!! and the world Gayle makes is Perfect. You Gayle are a true Author!.
My son is now reading this, and I know he will love it, this is action packed page turner through the whole book. Go pick up your copy today !!!!! I can not wait to get my hands on the second book of the series !!! Way to write Gayle. You have poured your heart and soul into this and it shows!!!!!
My son is now reading this, and I know he will love it, this is action packed page turner through the whole book. Go pick up your copy today !!!!! I can not wait to get my hands on the second book of the series !!! Way to write Gayle. You have poured your heart and soul into this and it shows!!!!!
September 9, 2024
Freebie book, weirdish
Want to read
July 11, 2020Freebie on amazon 11th July 2020
February 20, 2018
Maggie & Justin (guardians) must have been worried Jacqueline “Jackie” (16) thought.
That was not to be the case.
Isla Solitaria, island. Rob had taken her captive but had every intention of providing for all her personal needs.
Rob informed Jackie he was a recruiter. She was a shapeshifter.
She was later introduced to Ethan (cougar shapeshifter).
Rob later introduced Jackie (17) to Garrett (22, magically powerful vampire).
He had been watching Jackie for a couple of yrs.
Sea Bright Docks. Jackie & Ethan went to stay at Carly O’Neal (25+, Garrett’s BFF) safe house.
Garrett came to check on the 2 of them & was not very happy with the situation.
Crescent City, CA. Sinclair “Sinc” Blakefield (f) & Kyle Daro will also be training with Jackie Crawford (cheetah shifter).
It will help determine their physical/mental strengths & weaknesses.
Carly (leopard shifter) always brought Samson (Rottweiler mix) with her.
She would sometimes cook the evening meals for the group.
Garrett Cuvier (200+ yrs. old) is meeting with several of the werewolf allies: the Western Pack Council, John (the Pine Ridge Pack), the Brownlow Pack, Aaron (Garrett’s cousin, alpha, Greenway Pack leader, OR.) & Tony (alpha, Danielson Pack leader, Sacramento, CA.).
Ethan & Jacqueline Crawford Cuvier (magic powers) will meet with the Crescent City Shifter Council members: Maya (shaman), Sylvia, & Brad & Peter Bain (Garrett’s lawyer) to determine their future.
Garrett Cuvier (234, alpha male, Jacqueline’s mate), Liam (Seelie Court), & Maya said a healer could kill using the same amount of energy.
Sinc sent out emails to all the shifter & told them of the council meeting tonight.
Hopefully Lily, Eleanor (female vampire), Antoine DuLac, Sasha, Yvette, & Heinrich will show up.
Lord Kennet, Ethan, Rob (Aka Mister Minty Fresh serial kidnapper), Garrett, & Kyle were in attendance also.
Others who came were: Aaron (Garrett’s cousin), Catherine (Aaron’s mate), Eleanor Howard (older female vampire), Franklin (2nd. Command), Chloe (waitress), Joe Rinaldi (mechanic), Denis (gas station owner), Elizabeth, Sasha, William, Heinrich, Yvette & Francois.
Will they come to some sort of consensus?
What happened to Carly?
Warning: This book contains graphic adult content, violence, &/or uncensored sexually explicit material which is only suitable for mature readers. It may be offensive or have potential adverse psychological effects on the reader.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written vampire paranormal book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great vampire movie, an animated cartoon or better yet a mini TV series. To be continued. It wasn’t as exciting as I like them so I will only rate it at 4/5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; Goodreads; MakingConnections; Making Connections discussion group talk; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
That was not to be the case.
Isla Solitaria, island. Rob had taken her captive but had every intention of providing for all her personal needs.
Rob informed Jackie he was a recruiter. She was a shapeshifter.
She was later introduced to Ethan (cougar shapeshifter).
Rob later introduced Jackie (17) to Garrett (22, magically powerful vampire).
He had been watching Jackie for a couple of yrs.
Sea Bright Docks. Jackie & Ethan went to stay at Carly O’Neal (25+, Garrett’s BFF) safe house.
Garrett came to check on the 2 of them & was not very happy with the situation.
Crescent City, CA. Sinclair “Sinc” Blakefield (f) & Kyle Daro will also be training with Jackie Crawford (cheetah shifter).
It will help determine their physical/mental strengths & weaknesses.
Carly (leopard shifter) always brought Samson (Rottweiler mix) with her.
She would sometimes cook the evening meals for the group.
Garrett Cuvier (200+ yrs. old) is meeting with several of the werewolf allies: the Western Pack Council, John (the Pine Ridge Pack), the Brownlow Pack, Aaron (Garrett’s cousin, alpha, Greenway Pack leader, OR.) & Tony (alpha, Danielson Pack leader, Sacramento, CA.).
Ethan & Jacqueline Crawford Cuvier (magic powers) will meet with the Crescent City Shifter Council members: Maya (shaman), Sylvia, & Brad & Peter Bain (Garrett’s lawyer) to determine their future.
Garrett Cuvier (234, alpha male, Jacqueline’s mate), Liam (Seelie Court), & Maya said a healer could kill using the same amount of energy.
Sinc sent out emails to all the shifter & told them of the council meeting tonight.
Hopefully Lily, Eleanor (female vampire), Antoine DuLac, Sasha, Yvette, & Heinrich will show up.
Lord Kennet, Ethan, Rob (Aka Mister Minty Fresh serial kidnapper), Garrett, & Kyle were in attendance also.
Others who came were: Aaron (Garrett’s cousin), Catherine (Aaron’s mate), Eleanor Howard (older female vampire), Franklin (2nd. Command), Chloe (waitress), Joe Rinaldi (mechanic), Denis (gas station owner), Elizabeth, Sasha, William, Heinrich, Yvette & Francois.
Will they come to some sort of consensus?
What happened to Carly?
Warning: This book contains graphic adult content, violence, &/or uncensored sexually explicit material which is only suitable for mature readers. It may be offensive or have potential adverse psychological effects on the reader.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written vampire paranormal book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great vampire movie, an animated cartoon or better yet a mini TV series. To be continued. It wasn’t as exciting as I like them so I will only rate it at 4/5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; Goodreads; MakingConnections; Making Connections discussion group talk; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
April 13, 2024
I admit, I started reading it, expecting a spicy shifter romance. It’s not spicy. Which is a good thing. The heroine, Jacky, is 17 years old. Yikes. Her love interest a 200 year old vampire, Garret. And it’s not like they’re fated (I’m okay with that). In this story your mate doesn’t even need to be the only one in your life. Again, I’m completely fine with that.
I just don’t get the pairing. There’s no chemistry between them. The romance is as interestingly written as a grocery list, just less detailed. I have been reading romances that aren’t spicy at all and you still get a sense of the sparks between the main characters, the longing and caring for each other. Garret looks super hot, okay, but apparently EVERYONE else is, too. Ethan would have been the heroine’s age and they have a lot in common. Why not them?
As a grown ass woman I find it super gringy, when a 17 year old girl’s stating that someone is the love of her life. I don’t judge her, she might as well believe it. But I judge the 200 year old guy who’s got nothing better to do than bind her to him for life. Like seriously, wtf? I want to scream at her:”Girl, watch out! A guy at that age has accumulated a lot of emotional baggage, and he’s going to dump that on you!”. She’s claiming they’re taking it slow but the whole story unfolds in mere weeks. And sure enough, problems of his past are catching up and putting her in danger!
Why write so young female leads? Or why not build in a time jump in the story? Jacky had a rocky start, then fast forward a few years when she’s settled into the shifter community… just an idea.
I only regret that I already got the whole series. I usually need to know how it’s continuing, but I have absolutely no interest in continuing with this one.
I just don’t get the pairing. There’s no chemistry between them. The romance is as interestingly written as a grocery list, just less detailed. I have been reading romances that aren’t spicy at all and you still get a sense of the sparks between the main characters, the longing and caring for each other. Garret looks super hot, okay, but apparently EVERYONE else is, too. Ethan would have been the heroine’s age and they have a lot in common. Why not them?
As a grown ass woman I find it super gringy, when a 17 year old girl’s stating that someone is the love of her life. I don’t judge her, she might as well believe it. But I judge the 200 year old guy who’s got nothing better to do than bind her to him for life. Like seriously, wtf? I want to scream at her:”Girl, watch out! A guy at that age has accumulated a lot of emotional baggage, and he’s going to dump that on you!”. She’s claiming they’re taking it slow but the whole story unfolds in mere weeks. And sure enough, problems of his past are catching up and putting her in danger!
Why write so young female leads? Or why not build in a time jump in the story? Jacky had a rocky start, then fast forward a few years when she’s settled into the shifter community… just an idea.
I only regret that I already got the whole series. I usually need to know how it’s continuing, but I have absolutely no interest in continuing with this one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 22, 2018
Jackie is a 16 year old who has been through the mill, going from one foster home to another never quite fitting in, until she was finally adopted and thought her life was now be settled. Unfortunately for her it is actually far from settled. At the start of the book she is kidnapped and she finds out that everything she thought made her different is because she is! She is in fact not human but a shapeshifter - not just any shapeshifter - she is a very rare type she is a cheetah!
In the world created by Gayle Parness shifters live in communities, hiding the fact that they are shifters from unsuspecting humans. But not all shifters are good, some are evil and the shifters in this story are being trained to help protect and enrich the lives of their own shifter communities.
Jackie has for some years been watched over by her very own guardian angel, Garrett, a magically powerful vampire who suspecting that she was a shapeshifter has watched her from afar although he did interfere and save her life some years back. But now she is on an island with other shapeshifters who are all being trained to reach their full potential. Jackie discovers that as a Cheetah she has magical abilities and must also learn to control these.
She meets Garrett and their connection is instant, he begins to train her to use her magic and whilst they work together their feelings for each other deepen. Once Jackie is 17, an adult in shifter eyes, they take their relationship to a deeper level but in order to achieve their HEA they will have to battle evil vampires, wolves and the fae.
In the world created by Gayle Parness shifters live in communities, hiding the fact that they are shifters from unsuspecting humans. But not all shifters are good, some are evil and the shifters in this story are being trained to help protect and enrich the lives of their own shifter communities.
Jackie has for some years been watched over by her very own guardian angel, Garrett, a magically powerful vampire who suspecting that she was a shapeshifter has watched her from afar although he did interfere and save her life some years back. But now she is on an island with other shapeshifters who are all being trained to reach their full potential. Jackie discovers that as a Cheetah she has magical abilities and must also learn to control these.
She meets Garrett and their connection is instant, he begins to train her to use her magic and whilst they work together their feelings for each other deepen. Once Jackie is 17, an adult in shifter eyes, they take their relationship to a deeper level but in order to achieve their HEA they will have to battle evil vampires, wolves and the fae.
January 20, 2024
Super Sized
Yes, pun intended! These are some powerful Supes...very much Super Sized, as is the book itself.
This book manages to be sexy and romantic, yet does fade to black scenes with the most delicious words. There is a classic good versus evil situation, but the skills these Supes bring to the table to fight others or to help others are not typical of the usual vampire, shifter, fae, and witch worlds we visit. It is rich with detail; a 10 course gourmet meal so to speak, and not one with skimpy portions. And then it is garnished with insightful comments that lit up my mind and heart.
Now the hard part: there is violence and there are enough details to know how rough it is, but I would not describe it as gruesome or as horror. We go in knowing a chunk of flesh torn off a shoulder will heal. We go in knowing the violence is to end Supes who persist in harming and destroying others. We also go in knowing these defenders sorrow over deaths when they happen, even when profoundly justified. It can be tough to read, because they are not at all hardened or unfeeling. Worth noting also is are the quiet words of a grandsire vampire who speaks of his preference to battle with his wits rather than his fists. Other comments threaded through the narrative speak of violence only in defense of self or others. They are doing all they can to create large places of peace.
Yet another truth frames that reality of their world: there is still joy and love between friends and partners and in life to be had.
It is well worth the read.
Yes, pun intended! These are some powerful Supes...very much Super Sized, as is the book itself.
This book manages to be sexy and romantic, yet does fade to black scenes with the most delicious words. There is a classic good versus evil situation, but the skills these Supes bring to the table to fight others or to help others are not typical of the usual vampire, shifter, fae, and witch worlds we visit. It is rich with detail; a 10 course gourmet meal so to speak, and not one with skimpy portions. And then it is garnished with insightful comments that lit up my mind and heart.
Now the hard part: there is violence and there are enough details to know how rough it is, but I would not describe it as gruesome or as horror. We go in knowing a chunk of flesh torn off a shoulder will heal. We go in knowing the violence is to end Supes who persist in harming and destroying others. We also go in knowing these defenders sorrow over deaths when they happen, even when profoundly justified. It can be tough to read, because they are not at all hardened or unfeeling. Worth noting also is are the quiet words of a grandsire vampire who speaks of his preference to battle with his wits rather than his fists. Other comments threaded through the narrative speak of violence only in defense of self or others. They are doing all they can to create large places of peace.
Yet another truth frames that reality of their world: there is still joy and love between friends and partners and in life to be had.
It is well worth the read.
March 3, 2018
I'm not a huge fan of shifter stories, but I've been recently impressed with other series in the genre. This first book in ROGUE SHIFTER series earns 3.5 out of five stars from me.
Did it have to be a vampire with a heart of gold? Parness gave him a compelling backstory, but I'm so finished with the shifter versus vampire story lines. Thank you so much TWILIGHT.
The start of the book was compelling, and I like the idea of teams of shifters with different abilities working together. But for what? We never saw the team go on a mission of any kind (other than a rescue that didn't feel like an organized mission). Lots of training, but still no hint at why they would be called upon in this world where everyone in town is a shifter or knows about them.
I applaud the author for giving this story a complete arc. Yes, there's a hint of the next story, but no cliffhanger endings that "force" readers to buy the next installment. Or force them to leave a scathing comment in the review (which is what I generally do).
If you enjoy YA paranormal romance, you'll want to snatch this up. The characters are interesting enough to carry a series.
Did it have to be a vampire with a heart of gold? Parness gave him a compelling backstory, but I'm so finished with the shifter versus vampire story lines. Thank you so much TWILIGHT.
The start of the book was compelling, and I like the idea of teams of shifters with different abilities working together. But for what? We never saw the team go on a mission of any kind (other than a rescue that didn't feel like an organized mission). Lots of training, but still no hint at why they would be called upon in this world where everyone in town is a shifter or knows about them.
I applaud the author for giving this story a complete arc. Yes, there's a hint of the next story, but no cliffhanger endings that "force" readers to buy the next installment. Or force them to leave a scathing comment in the review (which is what I generally do).
If you enjoy YA paranormal romance, you'll want to snatch this up. The characters are interesting enough to carry a series.
March 21, 2018
I found this book very hard to relate to, even more so in the beginning. It was all so contrived. She went from - she has never kept a friend, doesn't trust and very angry, to Miss Congeniality that everyone loves and she trusts, loves and heals everyone... sigh. (I wish it was that easy to change)Steps of growth were very fast - months of training on the island went to a few days just to discover she was a shapeshifter and make the change. It all felt quite rushed to me... the romance, becoming a badass, powers, etc. Still, I did end up liking it and so much happens so quickly I ended up wondering where it all would lead; making me curious about the next book.
I rate this book somewhere between a 3 and a 4. It is definitely geared to young adults and I think they will appreciate it more. Who wouldn't want to become a super hero with awesome powers, loyal friends and a hunky, rich, sexy mate almost overnight?!?
I rate this book somewhere between a 3 and a 4. It is definitely geared to young adults and I think they will appreciate it more. Who wouldn't want to become a super hero with awesome powers, loyal friends and a hunky, rich, sexy mate almost overnight?!?
May 24, 2017
Wow!
This was a great start to this series. When I first started reading, I wasn't sure of the direction that it would take. I liked that was different. All of the characters had a strong presence in the story, and it made so much "more". Jackie had a rough start in life, but she was still able to move forward. I liked that she was strong without being arrogant. She had a great sense of herself. She was refreshing. Garrett's passion and empathy, and made him unique. It made him a stronger character. I enjoyed reading their journey of discoveries. I would highly recommend reading this book if you like paranormal romance. I received a copy of this book from Reading Alley in exchange for an honest review.
This was a great start to this series. When I first started reading, I wasn't sure of the direction that it would take. I liked that was different. All of the characters had a strong presence in the story, and it made so much "more". Jackie had a rough start in life, but she was still able to move forward. I liked that she was strong without being arrogant. She had a great sense of herself. She was refreshing. Garrett's passion and empathy, and made him unique. It made him a stronger character. I enjoyed reading their journey of discoveries. I would highly recommend reading this book if you like paranormal romance. I received a copy of this book from Reading Alley in exchange for an honest review.
June 30, 2017
Very glad I started this series!
This book is a well written journey. It grabs your attention and pulls you into the story. This book is a great escape. I listened to the story and to me that adds so much to the experience. The writer gives life to the characters and creates a world for us to enter with her words, the narrator gives us the personality to make the world and the characters pulse with life. I float about the book world and change what I read and listen to often. This book is not what I am currently into. I am all about the quick and dirty right now, this book is long, action filled, some romance, NO Dirty! But once started I was totally engaged and eager to stay and see how this journey plays out in this amazing world she has created.
This book is a well written journey. It grabs your attention and pulls you into the story. This book is a great escape. I listened to the story and to me that adds so much to the experience. The writer gives life to the characters and creates a world for us to enter with her words, the narrator gives us the personality to make the world and the characters pulse with life. I float about the book world and change what I read and listen to often. This book is not what I am currently into. I am all about the quick and dirty right now, this book is long, action filled, some romance, NO Dirty! But once started I was totally engaged and eager to stay and see how this journey plays out in this amazing world she has created.
April 28, 2018
Perhaps there is no good way to tell a sixteen-year-old girl she is a shapeshifter, but there are no doubt hundreds of less dickish ways of doing so than that portrayed in this book. It is therefore very difficult to move forward in the story without continuing to resent this unwarranted cruelty, and that is a shame, because Rebirth is otherwise a fast-paced and intriguing tale of were-cats and secret underworlds and our heroine Jackie’s mysterious past, with even the occasional moment of clever humor to leaven the very somber tone that otherwise pervades events. In all, a polished and pleasingly uncommon entry into the genre. It is very hard to get past that dickishness, though. – Rachel Hyland
This review appears in Romantic Intentions Quarterly #1.
This review appears in Romantic Intentions Quarterly #1.
September 11, 2023
He is 230 years old, he stalks her from when she's a 14 year old child, plans to have her kidnapped, becomes her teacher... she falls in love with him, at the very mature age of 17!!
SERIOUSLY!!! SHE'S A CHILD!
Disgusting.
It reads like a story layout, like only one step better than dot points. Very poor writing style. "Then we did this ... then we did this..." sort of thing.
Treats the reader like an idiot "you can get hypothermia if you get too cold." Show me, don't tell me!!!
I stopped reading when I realised that she was definitely going to fall in love with the old creep. I only read as far as I did because I thought there was a chance she'd end up with the fellow kidnapee (who tried to escape even though he was there by choice?) Who was her own age and not a creep.
SERIOUSLY!!! SHE'S A CHILD!
Disgusting.
It reads like a story layout, like only one step better than dot points. Very poor writing style. "Then we did this ... then we did this..." sort of thing.
Treats the reader like an idiot "you can get hypothermia if you get too cold." Show me, don't tell me!!!
I stopped reading when I realised that she was definitely going to fall in love with the old creep. I only read as far as I did because I thought there was a chance she'd end up with the fellow kidnapee (who tried to escape even though he was there by choice?) Who was her own age and not a creep.
March 5, 2018
As if coming of age isn't hard enough on a teenager jackie finds out she's a shapeshifter and not entirely human. talk about difficult. the world in this book was and intriguing blend of many supernatural types that made me wonder what was coming next. I love a hidden supernatural world as much as I do the new urban fantasies. the humans of course don't know about them which makes the unexpected hormones in the supes a danger in human communities. while jackie accepted what was happening a little too quickly for my taste she still showed some periodic stubborness and willfulness to not completely roll over. Since I like a strong willful main character this made her slighly more likeable to me. while the romance was a big cliche to me i did enjoy that she went for what she wanted without being whiney. I enjoyed this book so will probably read the rest of the series too, gotta know what happens next.
January 24, 2020
A great read
This series opener follows Jackie Crawford, who never knew her parents and grew up in the foster system until she was adopted. But now, at seventeen, as she's returning home from a ride on her bicycle, she's abducted and awakens in the woods with a man who smells like mint. He tells her she is on an island, that he's going to help her with her change and train her. Say what?
This book captured and held my attention till the end. It gives a different spin on some of the more common paranormal and supernatural stories and ends with an HEA and the promise of more danger to come.
This series opener follows Jackie Crawford, who never knew her parents and grew up in the foster system until she was adopted. But now, at seventeen, as she's returning home from a ride on her bicycle, she's abducted and awakens in the woods with a man who smells like mint. He tells her she is on an island, that he's going to help her with her change and train her. Say what?
This book captured and held my attention till the end. It gives a different spin on some of the more common paranormal and supernatural stories and ends with an HEA and the promise of more danger to come.
September 7, 2017
This book was a true work of amazement and delight. I think that this book will be placed on my top 20 books to read more than 5 times. Every person in this book was an important part of this story and hopefully more upcoming stories. I loved the chemistry and relationship that the author developed between Jackie and Garrett was spectacular, hot, and unexpected. I loved every part of this book and I am upset that I finished it. Thank you Reading Alley and Gayle Parness for allowing me to read this awesome book and write a honest review.
February 23, 2020
Learn to live who you are
This is a brilliant read for anyone who loves supernatural reads. It begins with an abduction of Jacqueline a teenage girl who loves in foster care.
At first she feels fear and refused to believe that she is a shifter who needs to be trained.
After many mistakes and a few surprises, she is able rune into herself and finds a true mate. There are many adventures and problems to overcome if she is to accept her date and help others around her, this includes other shifters, vampires and Fae.
This is a brilliant read for anyone who loves supernatural reads. It begins with an abduction of Jacqueline a teenage girl who loves in foster care.
At first she feels fear and refused to believe that she is a shifter who needs to be trained.
After many mistakes and a few surprises, she is able rune into herself and finds a true mate. There are many adventures and problems to overcome if she is to accept her date and help others around her, this includes other shifters, vampires and Fae.
September 19, 2021
Well written & edited, for the most part. The occasional continuity gaff, or tiny leap/gap in story logic. Believable YA characters (ie: age), but not annoying. Detailed relationships between all the characters. A gripping story. Obviously, this is a long & branching series/universe, so it should be no surprise that the story has the potential to carry on. I like that the drama was palpable, and I even briefly doubted the heroes triumph, but there was no unnecessary torturing and misery of the characters (though, future titles have me worried! Lol).
October 16, 2022
Not bad at all
Happy I got this book recommended. Quiet different from the regular shifter books I met so far. I usually like fae books so happy it had some while not the driving characters. I was not hating the heroine so absolutey good point. Dark vamp boy is absolutely fav so another good point. Most characters were likebale and the story is also okey. Not a book that swaps you in and cannot put it down but overall a quick easy read.
May return to book two at one point however fortunately these can be read as a standalone story!!! Extra good point.
Happy I got this book recommended. Quiet different from the regular shifter books I met so far. I usually like fae books so happy it had some while not the driving characters. I was not hating the heroine so absolutey good point. Dark vamp boy is absolutely fav so another good point. Most characters were likebale and the story is also okey. Not a book that swaps you in and cannot put it down but overall a quick easy read.
May return to book two at one point however fortunately these can be read as a standalone story!!! Extra good point.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews