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Transcendent: Tales of the Paranormal
Discover the secrets of a siren, fly with a hawk girl over the mountains of Montana, and flee supernatural party-crashers as the décor comes to life in this magical journey through paranormal stories.
Along the way, watch for ghosts in a haunted house, or ride through the moonlight with a stranger. Save a comatose boy who has lost his soul, and don't forget to bring your garlic and wolfsbane--you never know when the shadows will snag you.
Transcendent includes eight stories of magic, love, death, and choice by some of the newest names in young adult fiction.
Along the way, watch for ghosts in a haunted house, or ride through the moonlight with a stranger. Save a comatose boy who has lost his soul, and don't forget to bring your garlic and wolfsbane--you never know when the shadows will snag you.
Transcendent includes eight stories of magic, love, death, and choice by some of the newest names in young adult fiction.
190 pages, Paperback
First published December 1, 2011
1 person is currently reading
358 people want to read
About the author
Lani Woodland
19 books415 followersI became an avid reader in elementary school, when I first discovered the Babysitters Club and Sweet Valley Twins series. In sixth grade, I began writing plays and recruiting (with force when necessary) my friends to act them out. Most of these early works were inspired by She-Ra, the epitome of girl power to my young self.
I have a hard time enjoying any book without at least a little romance in it. I live in Southern California with my husband, our two children and a large collection of board games. I have worked as a spot-welder, babysitter, janitor, photographer, gymnastics coach, and movie extra. I enjoy bonfires at the beach, hole-in-the-wall restaurants, speed talking, chocolate as a cure-all, and the word "precisely."
I'm the author of Breaking Pointe, Stronger, THE YARA SILVA TRILOGY, including: Intrinsical, Indelible, and Inevitable, and Out of Bounds, the third book in the Pom Pom Periodicals series. With Erica Cameron I'm the co-author of the Laguna Tides series, starting with Taken By Chance. I also co-wrote the pirate adventure Pieces of Jade, books one and two of The Pom Pom Periodicals (That’s The Spirit, Give Me A C) and two short stories in Enchanted: Love Stories of the Paranormal with Melonie Piper.
I have a hard time enjoying any book without at least a little romance in it. I live in Southern California with my husband, our two children and a large collection of board games. I have worked as a spot-welder, babysitter, janitor, photographer, gymnastics coach, and movie extra. I enjoy bonfires at the beach, hole-in-the-wall restaurants, speed talking, chocolate as a cure-all, and the word "precisely."
I'm the author of Breaking Pointe, Stronger, THE YARA SILVA TRILOGY, including: Intrinsical, Indelible, and Inevitable, and Out of Bounds, the third book in the Pom Pom Periodicals series. With Erica Cameron I'm the co-author of the Laguna Tides series, starting with Taken By Chance. I also co-wrote the pirate adventure Pieces of Jade, books one and two of The Pom Pom Periodicals (That’s The Spirit, Give Me A C) and two short stories in Enchanted: Love Stories of the Paranormal with Melonie Piper.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
December 7, 2011
Sometimes, it's just nice to take a break. For me, that's exactly what TRANSCENDENT gave me. The shorter stories lacked nothing in POP, but were fast and easy to zip through making it all about relaxation and enjoyment. As a writer who does a lot of reading for work, it was nice to read something that felt like a gift to me, not like a "have to".
The writing was good, the stories clever and engaging. Some of the stories I wished were books so I could read more of them, but that's a good thing--none of the stories felt slow or pedantic.
TRANSCENDENT would make an excellent addition to someone's e-reader, that's for sure! What's better than a little paranormal in bite-sized pieces?
The writing was good, the stories clever and engaging. Some of the stories I wished were books so I could read more of them, but that's a good thing--none of the stories felt slow or pedantic.
TRANSCENDENT would make an excellent addition to someone's e-reader, that's for sure! What's better than a little paranormal in bite-sized pieces?
January 23, 2012
This short story collection of paranormal, mythical, supernatural YA was sent to me for review by one of the authors. Thanks Rita.
Look at this pretty cover. You've got to love it, so sweet and the inside just as sweet. My favorite story was Feather though I enjoyed all of them.
These stories are like little bites of guilty pleasure. Short, sweet and just plain fun. I like that you had variety to the stories not varying versions of the same thing. Greek myth, vampires, the headless horseman, ghosts and more.
Seduction of a Siren about two young guys who wash up on an island inhabited by a siren. An interesting twist to the siren myth.
Feather about a girl fighting her heritage comes to learn much about it and herself.
Spectre about a store that offers that perfect thing and then some.
Shadows of Promise about a promise made long ago leading to a haunted house.
Pumpkin Thief a romantic headless horseman.
Strike about art, a hot surfer guy and an mp3 player with an interesting play list.
Ryan's Wish the saddest story about needing to let go
Kiss of Death about the grim reaper not quite what you expect him to be.
These can for sure be enjoyed by adults but are great reads for young teens.
Transcendent is available on amazon for only 99cents for the ebook version, serious must buy. Go check it out.
Look at this pretty cover. You've got to love it, so sweet and the inside just as sweet. My favorite story was Feather though I enjoyed all of them.
These stories are like little bites of guilty pleasure. Short, sweet and just plain fun. I like that you had variety to the stories not varying versions of the same thing. Greek myth, vampires, the headless horseman, ghosts and more.
Seduction of a Siren about two young guys who wash up on an island inhabited by a siren. An interesting twist to the siren myth.
Feather about a girl fighting her heritage comes to learn much about it and herself.
Spectre about a store that offers that perfect thing and then some.
Shadows of Promise about a promise made long ago leading to a haunted house.
Pumpkin Thief a romantic headless horseman.
Strike about art, a hot surfer guy and an mp3 player with an interesting play list.
Ryan's Wish the saddest story about needing to let go
Kiss of Death about the grim reaper not quite what you expect him to be.
These can for sure be enjoyed by adults but are great reads for young teens.
Transcendent is available on amazon for only 99cents for the ebook version, serious must buy. Go check it out.
December 31, 2011
What a wonderful treat! I'm not a huge short story fan and can't write one to save my life, so I was a little leery to read this book in the beginning. However, I'm so glad I did. From beginning to end, I was totally captivated by these stories, each unique and reflective of the authors own style and imagination. My favorite has to be Wendy Swores about the homecoming dance. Had me on the edge of my seat the whole time. LOVED. IT.
The other stories also kept my interest and were very enjoyable. I loved having little snippets to entertain me as I found pieces of time throughout my day to read. I highly recommend this anthology to anyone who likes to have the living crap scared out of them and who enjoys an old-fashioned spooky story.
The other stories also kept my interest and were very enjoyable. I loved having little snippets to entertain me as I found pieces of time throughout my day to read. I highly recommend this anthology to anyone who likes to have the living crap scared out of them and who enjoys an old-fashioned spooky story.
November 22, 2011
Fabulous collection! Highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys young adult paranormal stories.
February 12, 2012
Review Originally Posted in Blackplume
Transcendent is a collection of short stories written by different talented authors. This anthology consists of eight paranormal stories perfectly combine to give readers a variety of reading experience. It presents different paranormal creatures like sirens, shape-shifters, vampires, ghosts, and a lot more. There is fantasy, thriller, romance and adventure in this one beautiful book. Summarizing the book or each stories would be tricky so to give you details about the book I listed a few descriptions below telling about each short stories and my opinion about them.
Seduction Of A Siren by Lani Woodland & Melonie Piper – an interesting twist of mythology about two guys who find themselves in an island owned by a siren. This story reminds me some of the bed time stories my parents reads to me when I was young because of the moral of the story in the end.
Feather by Rita Webb – is about a girl name Feather who learned her identity through a spirit-journey, wherein she meets a new friend that helps her explore her own capability. A story of friendships, self-acceptance and love.
Spectre by Wendy Swore – a Halloween adventure of two girls that may or may not include real Halloween creatures like vampires. This is a perfect read for Halloween that will leave you goose bumps and chills.
Shadows of Promise by Heather McCubbin – a hunting tale about a girl who had an encounter with the ghost of her dead twin sister. An encounter that leads to solve a murder-mystery. The romance in here though short is believable and sweet which can be expand into a longer story.
Pumpkin Thief by Evan Joseph – a night of encounter with a headless knight in shining armor who defends a girl against her stalker. I like the twist of this one, though I did hope that Halloween lasted longer for the two characters, I still like that the author did not go to a cliché and predictable happy ending.
Strike by Wendy Swore & Rita Webb – a unique story about a boy who gets struck by lightning and ends up trapped in his mp3 player. This one is different from all the short stories in this book because it doesn’t have any paranormal creatures like vampire or ghost, no super-powers or mythological aspects. It’s about ordinary teenagers stuck in a strange situation. One of the thing that struck me in this story is the mother and son relationship of one of the main character.
Ryan’s Wish by Melanie Marks – “be careful what you wish for, it might just come true” is exactly what you need to remember in reading this story. Since Ryan disappear, Ava spend her birthday wishes every year asking for Ryan to come back to her life. And when Ryan finally did come back, he come back as something else.
Kiss of Death by Lani Woodland & Melonie Piper – a story of undying love and sacrifices which presents an angel of death/reaper and his task to deliver the last breath of his one and only love. This is another great story worth of expanding to a stand alone novel. The past lives of the main characters looks interesting to explore. The idea of reincarnation, undying love and the grim reaper twist are great and interesting subjects.
It is hard to choose what is the best from these short stories since most them offers something different from the others. Though there are some stories that I wish to be longer than a short story. I want to read more about the characters and find out what will be their next adventure. They are not cliff hanger type but definitely will make you hungry for more. Sometimes short stories are just too good to end, especially when the short encounter with the characters makes you care for them than you expected.
Overall, Transcendent is quick entertaining read that paranormal readers will surely enjoy. With a taste of different paranormal creatures and different type of adventures this book is like a full meal treat that every paranormal lovers should indulge.
Transcendent is a collection of short stories written by different talented authors. This anthology consists of eight paranormal stories perfectly combine to give readers a variety of reading experience. It presents different paranormal creatures like sirens, shape-shifters, vampires, ghosts, and a lot more. There is fantasy, thriller, romance and adventure in this one beautiful book. Summarizing the book or each stories would be tricky so to give you details about the book I listed a few descriptions below telling about each short stories and my opinion about them.
Seduction Of A Siren by Lani Woodland & Melonie Piper – an interesting twist of mythology about two guys who find themselves in an island owned by a siren. This story reminds me some of the bed time stories my parents reads to me when I was young because of the moral of the story in the end.
Feather by Rita Webb – is about a girl name Feather who learned her identity through a spirit-journey, wherein she meets a new friend that helps her explore her own capability. A story of friendships, self-acceptance and love.
Spectre by Wendy Swore – a Halloween adventure of two girls that may or may not include real Halloween creatures like vampires. This is a perfect read for Halloween that will leave you goose bumps and chills.
Shadows of Promise by Heather McCubbin – a hunting tale about a girl who had an encounter with the ghost of her dead twin sister. An encounter that leads to solve a murder-mystery. The romance in here though short is believable and sweet which can be expand into a longer story.
Pumpkin Thief by Evan Joseph – a night of encounter with a headless knight in shining armor who defends a girl against her stalker. I like the twist of this one, though I did hope that Halloween lasted longer for the two characters, I still like that the author did not go to a cliché and predictable happy ending.
Strike by Wendy Swore & Rita Webb – a unique story about a boy who gets struck by lightning and ends up trapped in his mp3 player. This one is different from all the short stories in this book because it doesn’t have any paranormal creatures like vampire or ghost, no super-powers or mythological aspects. It’s about ordinary teenagers stuck in a strange situation. One of the thing that struck me in this story is the mother and son relationship of one of the main character.
Ryan’s Wish by Melanie Marks – “be careful what you wish for, it might just come true” is exactly what you need to remember in reading this story. Since Ryan disappear, Ava spend her birthday wishes every year asking for Ryan to come back to her life. And when Ryan finally did come back, he come back as something else.
Kiss of Death by Lani Woodland & Melonie Piper – a story of undying love and sacrifices which presents an angel of death/reaper and his task to deliver the last breath of his one and only love. This is another great story worth of expanding to a stand alone novel. The past lives of the main characters looks interesting to explore. The idea of reincarnation, undying love and the grim reaper twist are great and interesting subjects.
It is hard to choose what is the best from these short stories since most them offers something different from the others. Though there are some stories that I wish to be longer than a short story. I want to read more about the characters and find out what will be their next adventure. They are not cliff hanger type but definitely will make you hungry for more. Sometimes short stories are just too good to end, especially when the short encounter with the characters makes you care for them than you expected.
Overall, Transcendent is quick entertaining read that paranormal readers will surely enjoy. With a taste of different paranormal creatures and different type of adventures this book is like a full meal treat that every paranormal lovers should indulge.
June 4, 2012
First let me say that I find it very difficult to review anthologies. First, you might love one story and hate the next. So they get a middle grade because of averages? Luckily I didn’t run into that problem with this book, because they were all pretty darn good!
In Transcendent you get 8 stories. My favorites were the ones that were a bit longer and able to give a bit more detail. And those were Spectre by Wendy Swore, Pumpkin Thief by Evan Joseph, and Kiss of Death by Lani Woodland and Melonie Piper.
In Spectre we meet Marcella and Lissae, who are throwing a Homecoming Halloween themed party at Marcella’s house. They go to a store to rent some decorations and find the staff there to be extremely accommodating. They even set the decorations up the next day! The party is a smash hit, and then some uninvited guest show up and crash. And they aren’t exactly what you’d call Welcome.
I found this story to be great, perfect for a setting like a campfire (although I could probably say that about any story in this book), but this one had an extra level of creepy that I liked. It reminded me of a B-Movie – and I totally adore B-Movies!
Second, Pumpkin Thief. Another Halloween themed story. Kira is getting ready for a party, and she is going as Sally from The Nightmare Before Christmas. Already I’m hooked. She’s carved a pumpkin pretty elaborately for part of her costume, but someone has stolen it!
I’m not going to blow the surprise on this one. But lets say that it mixes some of the very old with some of the new, and it throws in a dash of romance and a bit of chivalry. It was a great blend of everything and I really enjoyed reading this one!
And lastly, Kiss Of Death. In this story we are introduced to Scarlet, who has been very sick with cancer. She knows her end is near, but she wants to live every girl’s teenage fantasy – Prom. So she goes. She dances, she socializes, she has the time of her life with her friends. And then he arrives.
This story had a really great twist that I think YA PNR fans will really love and just snatch this story up. Plus its written by two authors, so I think that in itself is pretty darn cool. Again, I’m not going to tell the secret, but it certainly has a modern feel to the story.
Overall, all of these stories fit very well into the YA category. There was nothing that was too adult in nature. This normally isn’t one of my favorite genres, but its starting to really grow on me with the more that I read - and this book totally added to that.
In Transcendent you get 8 stories. My favorites were the ones that were a bit longer and able to give a bit more detail. And those were Spectre by Wendy Swore, Pumpkin Thief by Evan Joseph, and Kiss of Death by Lani Woodland and Melonie Piper.
In Spectre we meet Marcella and Lissae, who are throwing a Homecoming Halloween themed party at Marcella’s house. They go to a store to rent some decorations and find the staff there to be extremely accommodating. They even set the decorations up the next day! The party is a smash hit, and then some uninvited guest show up and crash. And they aren’t exactly what you’d call Welcome.
I found this story to be great, perfect for a setting like a campfire (although I could probably say that about any story in this book), but this one had an extra level of creepy that I liked. It reminded me of a B-Movie – and I totally adore B-Movies!
Second, Pumpkin Thief. Another Halloween themed story. Kira is getting ready for a party, and she is going as Sally from The Nightmare Before Christmas. Already I’m hooked. She’s carved a pumpkin pretty elaborately for part of her costume, but someone has stolen it!
I’m not going to blow the surprise on this one. But lets say that it mixes some of the very old with some of the new, and it throws in a dash of romance and a bit of chivalry. It was a great blend of everything and I really enjoyed reading this one!
And lastly, Kiss Of Death. In this story we are introduced to Scarlet, who has been very sick with cancer. She knows her end is near, but she wants to live every girl’s teenage fantasy – Prom. So she goes. She dances, she socializes, she has the time of her life with her friends. And then he arrives.
This story had a really great twist that I think YA PNR fans will really love and just snatch this story up. Plus its written by two authors, so I think that in itself is pretty darn cool. Again, I’m not going to tell the secret, but it certainly has a modern feel to the story.
Overall, all of these stories fit very well into the YA category. There was nothing that was too adult in nature. This normally isn’t one of my favorite genres, but its starting to really grow on me with the more that I read - and this book totally added to that.
December 26, 2011
From the back cover:
Discover the secrets of a siren, fly with a hawk girl over the mountains of Montana, and flee supernatural party-crashers as the décor comes to life in this magical journey through paranormal stories.
Along the way, watch for ghosts in a haunted house, or ride through the moonlight with a stranger. Save a comatose boy who has lost his soul, and don’t forget to bring your garlic and wolfsbane—you never know when the shadows will snag you.
Transcendent includes eight stories of magic, love, death, and choice by some of the newest names in young adult fiction.
It's been a long time since I've read an anthology, and I'd forgotten how much I enjoy them. In fact, it was through an anthology that I discovered one of my favorite authors of all time, Anne McCaffrey, and her amazing Dragonriders of Pern world.
One of the great things about an anthology is you get to taste the writing of a variety of different writers. You can experience their writing styles, world building, imagination, and characterizations. It can be tough to do a good job of that in a short story, so my hat goes off to everyone who succeeds.
Transcendent reminded me a little of Stephen Spielberg's TV show Amazing Stories from the 1980s. My family loved most of the episodes and even recorded them on tape.
I could see the various short stories in Transcendent being made in a TV series. Some of the stories would start out quite normal and turn into the bizarre, and I'd be turning the pages to see what happened next. Other times I knew right from the beginning that something was afoot.
The story of the hawk girl is written with almost hauntingly beautiful language, and the party that goes awry due to the décor is hilarious and creepy all at the same time. I think perhaps my favorite was the story of the boy who gets struck by lightening and ends up trapped in his iPod.
Discover the secrets of a siren, fly with a hawk girl over the mountains of Montana, and flee supernatural party-crashers as the décor comes to life in this magical journey through paranormal stories.
Along the way, watch for ghosts in a haunted house, or ride through the moonlight with a stranger. Save a comatose boy who has lost his soul, and don’t forget to bring your garlic and wolfsbane—you never know when the shadows will snag you.
Transcendent includes eight stories of magic, love, death, and choice by some of the newest names in young adult fiction.
It's been a long time since I've read an anthology, and I'd forgotten how much I enjoy them. In fact, it was through an anthology that I discovered one of my favorite authors of all time, Anne McCaffrey, and her amazing Dragonriders of Pern world.
One of the great things about an anthology is you get to taste the writing of a variety of different writers. You can experience their writing styles, world building, imagination, and characterizations. It can be tough to do a good job of that in a short story, so my hat goes off to everyone who succeeds.
Transcendent reminded me a little of Stephen Spielberg's TV show Amazing Stories from the 1980s. My family loved most of the episodes and even recorded them on tape.
I could see the various short stories in Transcendent being made in a TV series. Some of the stories would start out quite normal and turn into the bizarre, and I'd be turning the pages to see what happened next. Other times I knew right from the beginning that something was afoot.
The story of the hawk girl is written with almost hauntingly beautiful language, and the party that goes awry due to the décor is hilarious and creepy all at the same time. I think perhaps my favorite was the story of the boy who gets struck by lightening and ends up trapped in his iPod.
December 21, 2011
Transcendent is a great collection of fun, spooky short stories that does a great job of keeping your interest. I've often found that with short story collections, there's always at least one that I'll start and then skip to the next one, but each of these was interesting enough to make me keep reading (nice job, authors!)
Of course, I have a few favorites. The story of the shipwrecked ex-friends who happen upon a siren was a fun read, as was the story of the Homecoming party that comes to life and the ghost-hunting group of teens who spend the night in a haunted house (no way would I have EVER done that! lol). All in all, these were well-written stories with defined characters that flowed well from one to the other right to the end.
My Rating:
I'm happy to give Transcendent: Tales of the Paranormal 4 stars, and recommend it for anyone looking for short, spooky reads that will entertain--and sometimes scare!
Of course, I have a few favorites. The story of the shipwrecked ex-friends who happen upon a siren was a fun read, as was the story of the Homecoming party that comes to life and the ghost-hunting group of teens who spend the night in a haunted house (no way would I have EVER done that! lol). All in all, these were well-written stories with defined characters that flowed well from one to the other right to the end.
My Rating:
I'm happy to give Transcendent: Tales of the Paranormal 4 stars, and recommend it for anyone looking for short, spooky reads that will entertain--and sometimes scare!
December 31, 2011
Each story was made alive by the wonderful talent of every author. I couldn't put my Kindle down as I read the stories aloud to my children, ages ranging from 9 to 15, and now they insist on rereading their favorite picks of short stories on their own.
The characters came to life, the storylines shared in rich detail that swept me into each world!The only sad thing about this book is that I wish that they were longer than short stories. If you want a cozy thrill with a flashlight-under-the-covers, or a snuggle-up-with-your-Kindle, I recommend this book!
January 5, 2012
What a charming collection of short stories! In one cover, you can experience all sorts of otherworldliness: sirens, shape shifters, ghosts, vampires, and out-of-body experiences just to name a few.
January 27, 2012
This was such a fun read. I wanted some of the stories to be longer. It would be great to read around Halloween time. The stories were spooky, bizarre and even romantic at times. I would recommend it. (My husband would object to the bad rap the motorcyclist got in one of the stories, though.)
February 24, 2012
My thoughts:
This is a fantastic collection of short paranormal stories. Each one stands alone as a great quick read. I usually find myself choosing a favorite story or author when I read a collection such as this, but with this book I found that I enjoyed each story as much as the one before it. I thought that each story was my favorite until I read the next one. Each story is one of dreams and desires, longing and loss, hope and expectation. This is a great introduction into YA paranormal.
The book begins with Seduction of a Siren by Lani Woodland and Melonie Piper. The characters are great, the story is entertaining and creative, and the ending is clever. I loved the message that there is more to someone than what meets the eye.
The next story: Feather by Rita J. Webb, is an interesting tale of heritage and dreams. I am shifter fan and this is a nicely done piece.
Spectre by Wendy Swore is next and is one of the the only non-romance type stories in the collection. This one has a bit of the creepy, horror feel to it. It's a little twisted from reality, with a tinge of Cinderella story gone scary.
Shadows of Promise by Heather McCubbin is sort of a romance, but truly this one is a ghost story. The characters are well-done and the story is smooth and entertaining. It wasn't what I expected as I started reading it.
Pumpkin Thief by Evan Joseph is the best re-make of the legend I have read. (Sounds odd, but I don't want to give too much away). Completely enjoyed it.
Strike by Wendy Swore and Rita J. Webb is next and will continue to entertain and enthrall. This is clever, creative, and new in idea from the normal YA paranormal I read.
Ryan's Wish by Melanie Marks is a dark love story. I enjoyed the read, but found myself saddened by lost love and desperate dreams - although buoyed by new hopes.
Kiss of Death by Lani Woodland and Melonie Piper is the final installment in this fabulous collection and is a wonderful story. It is a little twist of fate, cheat death kind of a read.
***all in all - I enjoyed each story completely and would recommend this to young readers, all lovers of YA, and any one who is looking for a well-written, fast read.
This is a fantastic collection of short paranormal stories. Each one stands alone as a great quick read. I usually find myself choosing a favorite story or author when I read a collection such as this, but with this book I found that I enjoyed each story as much as the one before it. I thought that each story was my favorite until I read the next one. Each story is one of dreams and desires, longing and loss, hope and expectation. This is a great introduction into YA paranormal.
The book begins with Seduction of a Siren by Lani Woodland and Melonie Piper. The characters are great, the story is entertaining and creative, and the ending is clever. I loved the message that there is more to someone than what meets the eye.
The next story: Feather by Rita J. Webb, is an interesting tale of heritage and dreams. I am shifter fan and this is a nicely done piece.
Spectre by Wendy Swore is next and is one of the the only non-romance type stories in the collection. This one has a bit of the creepy, horror feel to it. It's a little twisted from reality, with a tinge of Cinderella story gone scary.
Shadows of Promise by Heather McCubbin is sort of a romance, but truly this one is a ghost story. The characters are well-done and the story is smooth and entertaining. It wasn't what I expected as I started reading it.
Pumpkin Thief by Evan Joseph is the best re-make of the legend I have read. (Sounds odd, but I don't want to give too much away). Completely enjoyed it.
Strike by Wendy Swore and Rita J. Webb is next and will continue to entertain and enthrall. This is clever, creative, and new in idea from the normal YA paranormal I read.
Ryan's Wish by Melanie Marks is a dark love story. I enjoyed the read, but found myself saddened by lost love and desperate dreams - although buoyed by new hopes.
Kiss of Death by Lani Woodland and Melonie Piper is the final installment in this fabulous collection and is a wonderful story. It is a little twist of fate, cheat death kind of a read.
***all in all - I enjoyed each story completely and would recommend this to young readers, all lovers of YA, and any one who is looking for a well-written, fast read.
May 30, 2012
Transcendent was my first experience with an Anthology and I wasn't quite sure I would enjoy a bunch of short stories put together in one book. But I actually enjoyed the collection quite a bit. This is a collection of paranormal stories and each one stands alone which made it great to just read a quick little story when I had a free minute and then get back to the next in my next spare time!
When I read the first story I was instantly swept in to it and was disappointed when it came to end. I thought to myself, they could have made the whole book about this one story and I'd be thrilled. Then I read the next story with little expectation and then thought that story was great and I wanted more. And it continued to be that way through the entire book. Which brings me to the only problem with the book, I wanted more!! I wanted to keep reading about each story! There was only 1 or 2 stories that didn't leave me eager for more! One of them was so strange I wasn't sure I would find anything to like about it, but strangely I did. Not sure what that says about me?! ha ha
Even though I was disappointed that each story had to end when I was just getting really sucked in the story they were all ended nicely. I was left with any cliff hangers or sad moments which is great because if that would have happened I would have put the book down. Who wants to be disappointed over and over again!
I received this book free from Rita Webb in exchange for my personal and honest opinion and review! All opinions are my own.
When I read the first story I was instantly swept in to it and was disappointed when it came to end. I thought to myself, they could have made the whole book about this one story and I'd be thrilled. Then I read the next story with little expectation and then thought that story was great and I wanted more. And it continued to be that way through the entire book. Which brings me to the only problem with the book, I wanted more!! I wanted to keep reading about each story! There was only 1 or 2 stories that didn't leave me eager for more! One of them was so strange I wasn't sure I would find anything to like about it, but strangely I did. Not sure what that says about me?! ha ha
Even though I was disappointed that each story had to end when I was just getting really sucked in the story they were all ended nicely. I was left with any cliff hangers or sad moments which is great because if that would have happened I would have put the book down. Who wants to be disappointed over and over again!
I received this book free from Rita Webb in exchange for my personal and honest opinion and review! All opinions are my own.
January 19, 2012
TRANSCENDENT is a fabulous collection of short stories that all share a paranormal element, while each story is original and creative on its own. I enjoy reading anthologies and short stories because they tend to give my brain a workout. For instance, in TRANSCENDENT I read about indian heritage and a hawk girl followed by a homecoming party where the decorations want a snack. There is so much excellent variety and the collection explores all types of supernatural. Each and every story captivated me, but at the same time I didn't feel like I was breaking up the story when I put it down. I mean, I have to work and sleep some time! The short story format gave me specific stopping points while still leaving me itching for the next story. My personal favorites were 'FEATHER' by Rita Webb and 'KISS OF DEATH' by Lani Woodland and Melonie Piper. And that's another thing I loved about this collection. Not only did the authors write their individual stories, but some of them also collaborated on stories. It was fabulous, and if you enjoy a variety to your paranormal, you will absolutely love this collection!
January 13, 2012
Every one of the stories in this new anthology by up-and-coming YA paranormal authors is original and memorable. If you like Twilight, you'll love these short adventures! Perhaps the most sensitively written is "Pumpkin Thief" by Evan Joseph, in which we get to see the Headless Horseman's romantic side. I have two personal favorites: "Seduction of a Siren" by Lani Woodland and Melonie Piper, for the way it turns a neglected part of Greek folklore on its head in funny and romantic ways, and "Feather" by Rita Webb, which combines breathtaking encounters with nature and mysterious romance to create a truly unique Native American perspective. None of the stories disappoint and all will inspire the reader to see his or her life in a more magical way.
February 13, 2012
This is my first time reading an anthology. I know sounds pathetic, but I really love long stories. But I enjoyed this collection. It was fun to read something small every now and then. My favorite has to be the heartwarming story Kiss of Death. It was so touching and sweet. Several of the other short stores left me wanting them longer. I enjoyed the one about the hawk, and was chuckling over the story about the headless huntsman. Also, the siren story was cool as it addressed the difference between true love and lust. Very fun!
Note: PG-13, very clean. Four Stars.
Originally posted at Creative Thoughts
Note: PG-13, very clean. Four Stars.
Originally posted at Creative Thoughts
March 9, 2012
Of all the collections of short stories I've read lately, this one takes the prize as the most fun. Written for the YA crowd, it is totally appropriate for anyone over the age of 12. Testament to the skill and talent of all of the authors, each of the stories is a feast for the imagination; well written and engaging. There are plenty of romantic moments and eerie happenings throughout the book. I was especially impressed with the completeness of each of the stories. I read the entire book in one sitting (there are only 178 pages) and loved every moment of it.
February 16, 2012
This was a fun, light book to read in my spare time. The paranormal is not a genre I read often (I spook easily), but I found these short stories to be fun to read. There were a few I wished would continue on. I just didn't get my fill of Feather, Pumpkin Thief, or Strike. If you're looking for some quick reads, and enjoy some paranormal I would suggest Transcendent! I plan on checking out more of what these authors have written.
August 3, 2013
This was a great book of short stories that made me wish they were longer stories. Some were on the spooky side and all of them were well written and interesting to read. It was strange though to have the stories progress so quickly and then end, having read so many series, but it was also enjoying not to have to worry about what would happen next because it was over and I could be relieved.
December 22, 2011
I have a small, little story in here :)
January 2, 2012
Great, Magical, paranormal, romantic, scary
January 9, 2012
Great spooky fun! A thrill ride through the world of the paranormal is what this anthology of stories by seven very talented writers is.
Read
November 26, 2011This is a great collection of short stories by many great writers, including Lani Woodland, Melanie Marks, Wendy Swore, and...well, me!
One of my stories is co-authored with Wendy Swore. It was a lot of fun writing with her. She has a great style that meshes well with my own. So be sure to read about the boy struck by lightning in the story Strike .
The other story I have in this collection is called Feather . Here's one of my favorite passages from my story:
A rustle of wings and a hawk feather drifts down to me. Snatching it from the air, I look up into the trees, but nothing’s there. So I tuck the feather into my hair.
“What are you doing?”
My stomach leaps into my throat, and I jump up, stumbling backward, and fall on my butt in the middle of the path. In the tree above me, a teenage boy perches on a branch. He’s dressed in traditional deerskin breeches, a talon necklace around his neck, but rather than moccasins, his feet are bare. He is shirtless, and lean muscles cord his body.
His intense eyes capture my attention. They’re like golden fathomless pools. I could get lost in them.
“Don’t your feet get hurt, walking barefoot on the forest floor?” I ask.
“I rarely walk.” He drops down in front of me. His face is so close that I take a step back and thump into a tree. He leans toward me and sniffs. “You smell different. What are you?”
“I’m a girl.” I can’t take my gaze from his.
“No, humans stink. You smell…” He sniffs my hair and grins. “You smell good.”
“Is there a reason that you’re invading my space? I have somewhere to be.” My voice cracks.
He tugs one of my braids and winks at me. My pulse quickens, and my breath catches in my throat. His eyes study me with intensity, and he leans closer. Is he going to kiss me?
“I don’t know what’s up with you, but I don’t like it.”
“You have a feather in your hair. A hawk’s feather.”
My hand flies to the feather tucked into my hair. “So?”
“Nothing.” He shrugs, but a secretive smile spreads across his face.
One of my stories is co-authored with Wendy Swore. It was a lot of fun writing with her. She has a great style that meshes well with my own. So be sure to read about the boy struck by lightning in the story Strike .
The other story I have in this collection is called Feather . Here's one of my favorite passages from my story:
A rustle of wings and a hawk feather drifts down to me. Snatching it from the air, I look up into the trees, but nothing’s there. So I tuck the feather into my hair.
“What are you doing?”
My stomach leaps into my throat, and I jump up, stumbling backward, and fall on my butt in the middle of the path. In the tree above me, a teenage boy perches on a branch. He’s dressed in traditional deerskin breeches, a talon necklace around his neck, but rather than moccasins, his feet are bare. He is shirtless, and lean muscles cord his body.
His intense eyes capture my attention. They’re like golden fathomless pools. I could get lost in them.
“Don’t your feet get hurt, walking barefoot on the forest floor?” I ask.
“I rarely walk.” He drops down in front of me. His face is so close that I take a step back and thump into a tree. He leans toward me and sniffs. “You smell different. What are you?”
“I’m a girl.” I can’t take my gaze from his.
“No, humans stink. You smell…” He sniffs my hair and grins. “You smell good.”
“Is there a reason that you’re invading my space? I have somewhere to be.” My voice cracks.
He tugs one of my braids and winks at me. My pulse quickens, and my breath catches in my throat. His eyes study me with intensity, and he leans closer. Is he going to kiss me?
“I don’t know what’s up with you, but I don’t like it.”
“You have a feather in your hair. A hawk’s feather.”
My hand flies to the feather tucked into my hair. “So?”
“Nothing.” He shrugs, but a secretive smile spreads across his face.
February 21, 2017
Very enjoyable short stories. Mostly romantically themed, though not necessarily romances persay.
March 19, 2021
The eight stories in this anthology are anything but traditional, and each one is equally amazing. It caught me from the beginning, and I spent the rest of the book trying to find one story I wouldn't like.
What can I say? It's an anthology, usually there's only one maybe two that you'll absolutely love, a few you like and the rest will be lucky if you remember them.
That's not the case here! I loved the first story and the next one and all the rest that followed.
Normally with anthologies I'll separate the stories and individually rate and review each one, but I'm not going to do that this time. That would be like singling one out as a favorite, it's just not possible.
These eight stories are sweet, mysterious, and a couple are even a little scary; the perfect combination for any paranormal fan.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
What can I say? It's an anthology, usually there's only one maybe two that you'll absolutely love, a few you like and the rest will be lucky if you remember them.
That's not the case here! I loved the first story and the next one and all the rest that followed.
Normally with anthologies I'll separate the stories and individually rate and review each one, but I'm not going to do that this time. That would be like singling one out as a favorite, it's just not possible.
These eight stories are sweet, mysterious, and a couple are even a little scary; the perfect combination for any paranormal fan.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 6, 2012
Take an exciting trip into the world of the paranormal, where anything is possible.
“Transcendent” was very well written and it caught and held me captivated from beginning to end. I enjoyed reading these different stories and hearing about some interesting journeys these characters went on. These authors definitely have a talent for bring these characters to life.
I highly recommend this story to anyone looking to spend a day reading some interesting paranormal stories. It’s a great way to spend some time getting lost in the paranormal world for a bit.
For a thrilling adventure into the paranormal world check out Rita J. Webb’s “Transcendent”!
“Transcendent” was very well written and it caught and held me captivated from beginning to end. I enjoyed reading these different stories and hearing about some interesting journeys these characters went on. These authors definitely have a talent for bring these characters to life.
I highly recommend this story to anyone looking to spend a day reading some interesting paranormal stories. It’s a great way to spend some time getting lost in the paranormal world for a bit.
For a thrilling adventure into the paranormal world check out Rita J. Webb’s “Transcendent”!
August 16, 2012
Transcendent is an anthology of paranormal short stories. I was very entertained by these stories during my time at the gym (this was my gym book). I found myself extending my bike cardio workout so I could finish a story.
The authors included in this anthology tell stories of the dead, ghosts, mermaids, vampires, etc... The stories were well crafted and provided great material for a short story. Some stories fell flat, whilst others made reading the book worth it. Overall, this is an interesting anthology that works to introduce you to certain authors.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this novel from the author in exchange for my honest review.
The authors included in this anthology tell stories of the dead, ghosts, mermaids, vampires, etc... The stories were well crafted and provided great material for a short story. Some stories fell flat, whilst others made reading the book worth it. Overall, this is an interesting anthology that works to introduce you to certain authors.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this novel from the author in exchange for my honest review.
January 23, 2016
This was a great book of short stories that made me wish they were longer stories. Some were on the spooky side and all of them were well written and interesting to read. It was strange though to have the stories progress so quickly and then end, having read so many series, but it was also enjoying not to have to worry about what would happen next because it was over and I could be relieved.
Want to read
May 23, 2012sounds like a good book XD
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