Vengeance

Transcend Time Saga #1.5

by Michelle Madow

How far would you go to get revenge?

When Chelsea Givens discovered that her ex-boyfriend Drew dumped her to be with her former best friend Lizzie, she'd never felt so betrayed in her life. Then her new friend Shannon tells her she can help set things right. Chelsea's willing to listen, but what Shannon wants her to believe -- that she shared a past life with Drew -- is impossible. And what she wants her to do to get him back ... well, it's downright crazy.

Could Shannon be telling the truth? And if she is, what lengths will Chelsea go if it means making Lizzie pay?

Genres: Young Adult, Romance, Fantasy, Paranormal, Time Travel, Magic, Short Stories

51 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 6, 2011

About the author

Michelle Madow is a USA Today bestselling author of fantasy romance novels filled with forbidden love, elemental magic, and epic twists that readers never see coming. With over three million books sold and translations in multiple languages, her addictive stories have captured hearts around the world.

She wrote her first novel in college and never looked back. Now, with 50 books published (and counting), she spends her time dreaming up magical realms and devastating romances that keep readers hooked from page one.

Originally from Maryland, she spent nearly two decades in Florida before a brief chapter in NYC—and now she’s back in the Sunshine State, where golden days fuel her creativity and moonlight sparks her imagination.

When she’s not writing, she’s likely getting lost in the magical world of reading, plotting her next big twist, or reminiscing about her travels to all seven continents.

Reviews

[Sarah Elizabeth · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an okay novella, although I didn’t like being in Chelsea’s head! Will be interesting to see what happens in the next book though.



6.5 out of 10

[Jen · Rating 3 out of 5]

MINI-REVIEW
Being a relatively short story from Chelsea's-- Lizzie's best friend-- point of view, it was fun and interesting to see the story her way. I think that the overall plot was well-paced and while it was a little mediocre and not over-the-top-exciting, Vengeance was an adequate read that fits between the first and last installment in the Transcend Time series.

Aside from the competent plot line, I think that this story was entirely negative. Let me explain. Chelsea, as mentioned before, is Lizzie's best friend. I'm not going to spoil anything, but she is extremely angry with Lizzie, and basically, this entire story illustrated Chelsea as an unfaithful best friend, as well as cruel. All Chelsea wanted was to get back at Lizzie for what she did. It really downplayed Chelsea's character, and made me hate her more than I did before. However, I think that this was Madow's intention, so it's actually good that I hated her.

The story doesn't exactly end on a cliffhanger, but the reader definitely wants to know more by the end. In my opinion, I think that Vengeance is a completely necessary read, even it's a novella/short story. It would have been great if it was longer! In all, Vengeance was a satisfying read that wasn't too little, but wasn't too much, either.

3 Teacups for Vengeance!
*Thanks to Michelle Madow for providing me with a copy to review!*

THIS REVIEW WAS ORIGINALLY POSTED ON A Reading Daydreamer:
http://a-reading-daydreamer.blogspot....

For more of my reviews, please check out the blog:

[zainab · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was quick, fun read. It was nice to read the story from Chelsea's perspective. Chelsea's jealousy and feeling of betrayal were understandable but I didn't like how she loathes her best friend because of a boy or boys. I was sympathetic towards Chelsea at first but how she played out the revenge without thinking about the repercussions was something really foolish of her to do.
I'll be reading Timeless soon because I'm curious to know what happens next!

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Remembrance so i was obviously going to love Vengeance. I can empathise with Chelsea. yes, Lizzie and Drew are made for each other but Chelsea feels betrayed. it's understandable when she doesn't understand the undying love Lizzie and Drew share. but every story needs the jealous ex to stir up some trouble, and Chelsea's perfect for that role. can't wait for the next book

[Benjamin Thomas · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a short but sweet one. Vengeance, book 1.5 of the Transcend Time Saga, is a nice development of the storyline. It takes place through Chelsea Givens point of view and how she reacts from the betrayal of her best friend Lizzie and ex-boyfriend Drew. It takes her back to her past through unusual means that will definitely affect her relationships in the present. Interesting too see what happens next in book 2, Timeless! 

[Annabelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

****FINAL RATING: 4.25 STARS****

CATCHALL
I wish I could give this book a high rating, because I really enjoyed it and honestly had a really good time reading it. Unfortunately, it's hard to give a book a good rating when you don't like the heroine at all. I honestly tried to understand her, and I do, but that doesn't mean I like her. Vengeance was a wonderful bridge book and had a very good and entertaining story, but what I'm really looking forward to is Timeless.

THE HEROINE
CHELSEA
Look, I didn't like her. I did think that maybe when I got her point of view I would understand her better, but honestly, I only began to dislike her more. She thinks she's in love, but love isn't selfish. Love is not wanting to be with someone no matter what, whether they want you or not. Love is wanting the person you love to be with someone else if that's what makes them happy. (For example, when I broke up with my ex he was still at that time in love with me but he let me go because he knew I would be happier with someone else. If he had fought me, I would have known he didn't really love me.) Love is the most unselfish thing in the world. It's not insisting on having everything your way. I realize she feels hurt and betrayed, but if she actually loved Drew that would be no excuse. I do feel like she's been misled and mostly, I just feel sorry for her. I do hope that things will work out for her in Timeless. And honestly, I wouldn't dislike her so much if she just admitted that she was doing these actions out of revenge. Because believe me, if she thinks she's doing them out of love she is sadly disillusioned. She's also blind to the big picture and stubbornly sees only what she wants to see.

THE PLOT
The plot of this book was excellent!

It is beautiful bridge between Remembrance and Timeless. It clearly connects the books, and it leaves you wanting more.

The events in Vengeance were clever and unique. There were a few things I didn't like and one thing in particular that bothered me, but for the most part, this book had an excellent plot.

Everything fit together so nicely. I loved the return of some things, and some things I could see coming but most of it was completely unexpected.

Really, the plot was close to perfect.

THE ROMANCE
Honestly, I covered most of this back in the Chelsea section. She's not in love. Done.

THE WRITING
Michelle's writing just continues to get better and better, and I am almost afraid to see how amazing it will be by the time Timeless comes out! Everything is beautiful, and I love the ultramodern details like the mentioning of the CHI straightener. It's things like that that make the book so relatable and real. I absolutely love that. Additionally, aside from hat, Michelle's writing is easy to read and extremely clear. i love that about it, and I never feel confused or lost. Michelle's writing is beyond gorgeous.

THE ENDING
Talk about a cruel cliffhanger! The ending was perfect and brilliant. Still, it was a bit cruel! Still, it sets the stage perfectly for Timeless, and builds the anticipation. It definitely escalates the excitement for its impending release.

WRAPUP
I highly recommend reading Vengeance. I know that a lot of people felt they could better relate to Chelsea after this book, and if that's the case for you, that's wonderful. I believe it was due to my own personal experiences that I feel so antagonistic towards her. Moving on, Timeless is one of my most anticipated books of 2012. I cannot wait for the cover reveal! I'm extremely excited to read it and hear how this all ends.

FINE.

Read more of my reviews on Sparkles and Lightning!

[Cam · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read the first one and when I finished the second book was on it's way. When it came I was shocked at how short it was but extremely happy Chelsea's side of the story was only that short. It was perfectly written to make sure not to bore you.

[Christie Cote · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vengeance by Michelle Madow
★★★★★

Vengeance is a short story that is the next installment in the Transcended Time Saga.

Chelsea had her heart broken by Drew, the guy she loved and her best friend, Lizzie. She desperately wanted Drew back but at the same time desired revenge. Since she had nothing to lose she made a new friendship with Shannon since Lizzie was her only close friend. Shannon’s aunt had told her that someone at her school would experience what Chelsea just did. The aunt told her to bring that person to her. She told Chelsea that she had a past life. Chelsea thought she was crazy until she saw some of the images from the past in her head. She wasn’t sure what to believe especially because of how crazy it sounded. Chelsea had to decide whether to believe what the aunt had told her and accept the help she had offered or seek revenge on her own.

I devoured this short story in one sitting. When I turned the last page, I couldn’t believe it was over. It left me wanting more. It was a great story but I hate that it was so short. That could be why I don’t read short stories very much because they are over too fast.

Michelle Madow had me enchanted again with her stunning story. Her words flowed beautifully on the pages, painting a vivid image of every scene. It gave me a feeling of being right there in the story.

I liked that she wrote this one in Chelsea’s point of view so you could see what she was feeling and how Drew being with Lizzie affected her. I enjoy seeing other perspectives and getting to know other important characters on a deeper level. I get to know the characters better that way, which also makes them seem more real.

I loved this short story and will be highly anticipating the next book in the series.

[Ahri · Rating 2 out of 5]

Originally posted @Black Lilies Are Deadly.

Hmmm... Okay, here I go.

I was somewhat disappointed in this short story. Although I knew it was a “bridge” between Remembrance and Timeless, I didn’t feel it added anything amazingly novel to the story. Or maybe I just have to read Timeless to know its importance in the saga.

Chelsea...

In book one, I was kind of feeling bad for her because what her “best friend” did to her was kind of dirty, fate involved or not, and I was looking forward to “seeing” things from her PoV. But I was very disappointed and even stopped feeling any pity for her in Vengeance. Why? Because oh-my-loving-goose, she comes off as a shallow and insensitive person. I thought this story would show a different, better, side of her and it didn’t. It only reiterates what I already knew, she’s an airhead. She makes a lot of comments which leave you thinking “what the h...eck is wrong with this girl?”. Like for example : "She wore one of those shapeless dresses fat women wear, even though she was so thin that a breeze could knock her over." *Raises eyebrow*

Overall, the book isn’t that bad. It’s reads really quickly, towards the end it gets interesting and the writing is okay. It's just that I like my characters with a little more personality.

[Kelly Hager · Rating 4 out of 5]

So this is more of a novella or short story than an actual novel. Instead, as the synopsis says, it more sets the stage for book three than continues the story in its own right (if that makes sense).

Chelsea is pissed (and understandably so) that her best friend and boyfriend are now dating. When she gets the chance to make things end the way they did the first time, she jumps at the chance. But in Chelsea's defense, she just sees the end result (she ends up with Drew the way she did the first time) and not the reason it happens (Lizzie dies). So she's all, "YES, LET'S DO THAT!" Because honestly, as furious as Chelsea is, I don't think she legitimately wants Lizzie dead.

Unfortunately, unless Drew and Lizzie manage to re-change things (AGAIN), that's what will happen. Which makes me so desperate for book three, I can't even tell you.

This is a really fun trilogy (at least so far) and part of what really works for me is the fact that everyone involved is a shade of gray. Obviously I want Lizzie and Drew together, but they're not perfect. They both screwed over Chelsea and Chelsea, in turn, isn't a generic villain. She has a legitimate grievance and while she's going about it in a less than ideal way, I think most of us would understand. (Although I hope we'd all stop short of having an ex's new girlfriend killed.

Recommended.

[Tiffany · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am so excited that Vengeance is told from Chelsea’s point of view because many readers hated her after reading Remembrance. Personally, I always felt really bad for Chelsea because from her perspective her boyfriend cheated on her with her best friend.

After reading Vengeance, I feel even more sympathetic towards Chelsea. Hearing Chelsea’s side of the story at the beginning of Vengeance was really heart-breaking. I can’t say any more than that or I’d be giving out spoilers, but if you didn’t like Chelsea after reading Remembrance, Vengeance will help you understand her side of the story.

Even though, Vengeance added more sympathy to Chelsea’s character, I can’t say I was pleased with her actions. I really like Lizzie and Drew, and I know that Chelsea’s actions will impact them negatively. We’ll have to wait for the next book to see just how bad the damage will be though!

As always, Michelle Madow weaves a captivating tale of love and betrayal that entrances the reader from the very first page. Her stories have a way of sucking you in, so that you find yourself thinking about them long after you’ve finished reading. The Transcend Time series is perfect for lovers of drama, reincarnation, and everlasting love.

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

As short stories go, this one was really interesting. When I read Remembrance, I knew Madow would write a continuation, because even though Lizzie got the guy, her story didn't feel finished yet. Though short, this story tells us a lot about how Chelsea (Lizzies best friend) felt about Lizzie and Drew's relationship. I got the impression that its told a couple of days after the events of Remembrance, and it is completely from Chelsea's point of view. Even if I don't agree with Chelsea, I do simpathize with her. It's not easy to deal with that kind of betrayl, especially according to Chelsea's way of viewing. I'm really interested to see how the lady from the shop (vague, I know, but I don't want to spoil it) will factor into the next book. Her motives aren't 100% clear so that makes me that more anxious to figure them out. Still, I won't say more because I don't want to ruin the story for anyone, but I will say that I am really looking foward to the next book, especially after the curve ball Madow throws here! If you liked Remebrance, than you'll enjoy this short. And if you haven't read Remembrance, than I suggest you do, because the story was lovely.

[Dianna · Rating 2 out of 5]

Chelsea came off as a very one-sided, cruel character in this book, which is probably what Michelle Madow intended. However, I have serious problems with these types of shallow characters; I believe to make a good book you've got to show different sides of at least the main lead(s). I know this was just a short story, but this depiction of Chelsea just didn't sit right with me.

What particularly gets me is her falling back on the idea 'Drew and I married in the past so that MUST mean we were meant for each other' and ignoring everything else to the point of stupidity. If I were her, I would at least try to find out more about flashbacks and her past instead of just the tiny bit dangled in front of her that she wants to see. I just cringe when I think about the wish she wrote; does she not wonder what happened to Lizzie? I'm not a fan of characters who do things thoughtlessly for shallow reasons no one cares about.

I will be reading the next book today to see how things end up...

[Becky · Rating 4 out of 5]

After reading Remembrance (book1) last year, I wanted more. I finally got hold of this short story but for some reason it got put on the shelf and I've just picked it up. I am participating in the 'Timeless' tour (book 3) next month and so have that one to read so I have just re-read Remembrance and got stuck into this one.
It didn't take long to read, it's only 50 pages long and literally bridges the gap between book 1 and book 3, although very short, it sets the whole storyline for book 3 and so is very important. It's also a refreshing look into someone else's point of view. Book 1 and 3 are told from Lizzie's point of view, but this one is told from Chelsea's.
After being dumped by Drew and betrayed by Lizzie, Chelsea is out for review, but how far is someone willing to go to get revenge?
This story is to the point but still capturing and magical. Michelle Madow has a way of writing that truly sweeps you into the page.
Definitely a series to pick up.

[Caitlin Audet · Rating 3 out of 5]

Vengeance is a short story between Remembrance and Timeless that is from Chelsea's POV. It's right after the ending of Remembrance and Chelsea is sulking from the breakup with Drew and finding out he's with Lizzie now. Another of their friends, Shannon, gets Chelsea out of the house and brings her to mall to help with getting Drew back. This is where Chelsea learns about her past life and her role with Drew.

I really didn't care too much for Chelsea in Remembrance and even less in Vengeance. One minute she was a great friend and the next she was petty and manipulative. Now she's going to the extremes to get Drew and I don't feel the love there at all. It seems more like a challenge just because for once Chelsea was the one to be dumped instead of her actually having feelings for Drew. It will still be interesting though to see what happens in Timeless I look forward to reading the finale.

[Taryn Browning · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Remembrance, so when I found out Madow was releasing the second part of the Transcend Time Saga, I couldn't wait to read it. And it definitely did not disappoint. Chelsea is obviously very upset, feeling as if she's been betrayed by both her boyfriend and best friend, so when someone offers her the opportunity to right what she believe has gone horribly wrong, she must decide whether to accept the offer, or move on. What would you do? By the end of the story, Madow had me dying for more. I can't wait for the third book so I can see what happens next. All I know for sure, is everyone's lives are going to be totally flipped upside down, leaving the reader wondering what will unfold when it comes to love, destiny and reincarnation. This book is not to be missed! I definitely recommend it! It's a must read!

[Heather Robbins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ok, so I loved Remembrance! In this short story we learn more about Chelsea, which I did not like AT ALL. Not that she isn't a deep character...you just don't want to like her because of her actions. This goes in depth with Chelsea and tells us her side of things with everything that has happened. Such a great tale...even though I really really Don't like her still :) I also want to say just be prepared.. but if you have read Remembrance then you need to read this too.

We are left hanging and I'm sure the fall out from actions taken will be EPIC in the 3rd book! I cannot wait to find out what happens with everyone!

[Jessica (Books: A true story) · Rating 3 out of 5]

This short novella was a great set up for the last book of this series. Vengeance felt like a teaser filled with tension and a conflict that you just know is going to make for an epic ending. It was a quick and compelling read. I rather like that it didn’t drag and try to fill itself out like some second books in a series can do. It doesn’t answer a lot of questions, but it sure does leave you eager to read the last book which I can’t wait to read!

This book is also reviewed on my blog Books: A true story

[Amy Halbern · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! What a great read short but good. I loved how we got to see a more deviant revengeful side of Chelsea. Interesting how she had a past life too. She was obviously Catherine. She may think she and Drew belong together she is so wrong. She needs to leave it alone. Drew was honest with her, and she can see how happy he is with Lizzie. She is so selfish. Shannon is not helping by encouraging her to get drew back. I about died where it ended. I like oh great what will happen next!!

[Jessica (BookRockGoddess) Bolton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a really good short story to Michelle Madows Transcend Time Saga. I am so happy that I read this story. I do not know how Michelle can write such an epic story in such a short story venu.. I am sad that Chelsea has decide to walk this path. I just hope that some day she can forgive and move on. I hated the cliffhanger because I have to wait so long for the next book. If you haven't read these books yet your are missing out on an amazing story.

[Martha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow what an ending!! Can't wait for the final book!!!

[Macie · Rating 2 out of 5]

During the month of October I read the book Vengeance by Michelle Madow. I did not like this book at all, it was definitely not the type of book I like to read. Even though I would not recommend this book my favorite character was Shannon, because she was set on helping Chelsea get through her hard breakup, and would do anything to help her get back up on her feet. My favorite quote from this book is “ But life wasn’t a fairy tale, and I had no problem doing what was necessary to get what I wanted, even if it meant playing dirty.” I like this quote because it really describes how the book is when you are reading it. This quote kind of takes you back to reading it. The setting of this book totally changed how the book plots in your mind, especially when they visit Genevieve’s layer, I guess you could call it that. The book says that when Chelsea is taken into a room there is candles, a rug, a crystal ball, and some weird potions. She ends up getting a potion that is supposed to make Drew fall in love with her all over again, with Lizzie feeling the way she did. I think the decisions made in this book are just down right dirty and wrong.

[Julie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked how we got to see a bit of point of view from the best friend Chelsea. She definitely got the raw deal in book 1, and I was curious if she was part of the whole past life situation too or was just caught up in the web by accident.

I liked getting to learn about her past and was interested to see how connected everything is and the whole mystic shop and possible witchcraft elements of the story that are introduced.

I did have to keep reminding myself who the narrator was in this story, since "I" is now Chelsea and not Lizzie, but following directly behind book 1 and being the same narrator voice threw me off a bit. 

Short, but set up the final story quite well.

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Let me start by saying that I am 100% NOT on Team Chelsea. And if it’s possible, this book made me hate her even more. Do you know what I heard every time Chelsea opened her mouth? Jan Brady. Yes, that’s right . . . “Marsha, Marsha, Marsha!” She is a jealous, vengeful, whiny little snot! Oh, and I know they’re both supposed to be guides and all, but Alistair is far less creepy than Shannon’s great aunt! And, if we’re going to call a spade a spade, I’m still trying to figure out what Shannon’s angle is – she’s just as manipulative as Chelsea is turning out to be!

So, she goes to see Shannon’s great aunt to figure out how to get Drew back. Well, in the old timeline, Lizzie dies so Drew and Catherine end up getting married. All Chelsea sees from Madam Creepy Guide is that she ends up marrying Drew. So, Chelsea does this little spell to make things turn out the way they did last time. There’s just one little catch that she doesn’t think of – for that to work, Lizzie has to die! I know Chelsea is conceited and self-centered and whiny and so many other things but is she really evil on top of it? Does she really want her best friend DEAD?

Chelsea has made it onto my list of Favorite Characters You Love to Hate! So don’t get me wrong – just because I hate Chelsea doesn’t at all mean I hate the book. I absolutely loved this one (well, not as much as the Lizzie centered ones but still, very much love here!). The writing and narration were excellent. Michelle Madow did a great job creating Chelsea to be such a hate-able character and I loved how Andrea Emmes portrayed Shannon’s creepy great aunt. Gave me chills!

[The Book Junkie Reads . . . · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very quick look at Chelsea's view of things. We spend a lot of time within Chelsea's thoughts and her trying to cope with what is happening around her. Her exs, best friends (Lizzie) and boyfriends (Drew). Her dealing with what see feels is a betrayal.

Narrator Review . . . Andrea voice was still the anchor but normal speed was a bit lagging and boring. Increasing the speed was a way to living things up. The audio was smooth and quick.

[Lola · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wasn't a fan of this book but I absolutely love the first book the reason why I rated this 4 stars is because it was short I couldn't believe Chelsea would have done that to Elizabeth not even over a guy like Drew. I am kind of curious to see whag Michelle has instored for the third and final book in the series.

[Lita · Rating 4 out of 5]

A short story from Chelsea's point of view. She meets a witch of sorts who gives her a spell to make everything the way it was before. After seeing her prior life during a sitting with Genevieve she's willing to do whatever it takes to get Drew back because' that's the way it was supposed to be".

[Jassicca · Rating 3 out of 5]

We dive into Chelsea's mind in this book, learning her feeling after the devastating breakup and to what extent she will go to get Drew back! There's also some clue as to who her parent is dating!

I'm super excited to read the next book and find out what will happen. Is the spell going to work? Is Lizzie going to die? What about a loophole to getting out of this? The battle between these two girls continues in the next book, Timeless.

[Amanda Perry-Larkin · Rating 3 out of 5]

This made me hate Chelsea even more

[Richard Goodrum · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fabulous tale. Chelsea, Drew, and Lizzie make for a tragic love triangle. Shannon and Amber are supportive friends to Chelsea. The story came to a fast close and left me wanting more.