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Chrysalis #1
Chrysalis
In the annals of dysfunctional families, the Chisholm’s are working their way to the top. Drug abuse, an unwed mother with multiple fathers, and the questionable cash flow for the 'pretty one'. All this from a seemingly normal, two parent middle class family. But were the choices truly made of their free will?
Bad choices are a Chisholm family trait, one that confounds the youngest child, Ellie, who's trying to separate herself by making smart decisions. And falling for Oscar Jeffreys, the hottest guy at school, would be number one on the list of Chisholm family disasters. Yet the crazy part is it’s not a one sided attraction. Somehow Ellie has caught Oscar Jeffreys’ eye. Sure she could see the barriers between them. Race, age, popularity. They were at opposite ends of the spectrum. But a demon set to destroy her family? She can't see that.
Oscar provides security and acceptance Ellie never imagined she deserved. As the passion of first love grows, Ellie honestly believes she has a chance to beat the odds and live a happy, normal life. Then her world collapses around her. With the help of a guardian angel, Ellie learns of a world that has unknowingly surrounded her for years. And she'll have to find strength buried deep inside to save not only her future, but flush out and stop the demon in her midst.
And Ellie will have to learn that sometimes the hardest lesson about growing up is accepting that you're worth more.
Bad choices are a Chisholm family trait, one that confounds the youngest child, Ellie, who's trying to separate herself by making smart decisions. And falling for Oscar Jeffreys, the hottest guy at school, would be number one on the list of Chisholm family disasters. Yet the crazy part is it’s not a one sided attraction. Somehow Ellie has caught Oscar Jeffreys’ eye. Sure she could see the barriers between them. Race, age, popularity. They were at opposite ends of the spectrum. But a demon set to destroy her family? She can't see that.
Oscar provides security and acceptance Ellie never imagined she deserved. As the passion of first love grows, Ellie honestly believes she has a chance to beat the odds and live a happy, normal life. Then her world collapses around her. With the help of a guardian angel, Ellie learns of a world that has unknowingly surrounded her for years. And she'll have to find strength buried deep inside to save not only her future, but flush out and stop the demon in her midst.
And Ellie will have to learn that sometimes the hardest lesson about growing up is accepting that you're worth more.
- GenresYoung Adult
436 pages, Paperback
First published April 15, 2012
1 person is currently reading
214 people want to read
About the author
Michel Prince
79 books835 followersMichel Prince is an author who graduated with a bachelor degree in History and Political Science. Michel writes young adult and adult paranormal romance as well as contemporary romance.
With characters yelling "It's my turn damn it!!!" She tries to explain to them that alas, she can only type a hundred and twenty words a minute and they will have wait their turn. She knows eventually they find their way out of her head and to her fingertips and she looks forward to sharing them with you.
When Michel can suppress the voices in her head she can be found at a scouting event or cheering for her son in a variety of sports. She would like to thank her family for always being in her corner and especially her husband for supporting her every dream and never letting her give up.
Michel is a member of RWA Pro and Midwest Fiction Writers. In 2013 she was awarded Elite Status with Rebel Ink Press. She lives in the Twin Cities with her husband, son, and cat.
With characters yelling "It's my turn damn it!!!" She tries to explain to them that alas, she can only type a hundred and twenty words a minute and they will have wait their turn. She knows eventually they find their way out of her head and to her fingertips and she looks forward to sharing them with you.
When Michel can suppress the voices in her head she can be found at a scouting event or cheering for her son in a variety of sports. She would like to thank her family for always being in her corner and especially her husband for supporting her every dream and never letting her give up.
Michel is a member of RWA Pro and Midwest Fiction Writers. In 2013 she was awarded Elite Status with Rebel Ink Press. She lives in the Twin Cities with her husband, son, and cat.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
May 10, 2012
First of all I think I need to defend myself for reading so much paranormal YA lately. I’m really too old for this stuff, but there is just something about sixteen year old girls, already crazy by definition, being imbued with supernatural powers. They make for the greatest characters, and so I have fallen in love with any number of Rose’s, Sydney’s, Caia’s, and Elena’s over the past year or so. And now I guess I’ll need to add Ellie to the list, the young heroine of Michel Prince’s Chrysalis.
This is the first published novel by this young author, and the character of Ellie is far and away its strength. She is a perfect dichotomy of self-hatred and determination in a single personality. She is so real, so earnest, and so likeable that I found myself rooting for her from the very first scene. Ellie’s character is also the book’s redemption, because there are a few other things about the novel that I found irritating.
First of all, Ms. Prince has a proclivity for mixing tenses. I recently read an interview with her where she candidly admitted to this defect in her writing, and I hope that awareness proves to be the first step in conquering it in the future. But what boggled my mind was not so much how she can flit from the present to past to future in a single sentence, but how much of it made it through the editing process.
The other thing that bothered me about the book was the flow of the paranormal aspect of the storyline. Until well over half-way through the book I was reading a pretty good story focused on the developing relationship between Ellie and Oscar when, suddenly, the paranormal element was introduced out of left field and rather matter-of-factly. With absolutely no transition, it was hard for me to accept as a reader.
All that being said, I was forced to give this novel four stars because I could… not… put… it… down! For a day and a half, my kindle stayed in my hand as I prepared my meals, waited at the bus stop, in line at the coffee shop, and even when I was supposed to be writing. And by the end of the book all my reservations of how I got there were put aside, because the stage was set with a great scenario for a paranormal series. I can’t wait for the next book.
This is the first published novel by this young author, and the character of Ellie is far and away its strength. She is a perfect dichotomy of self-hatred and determination in a single personality. She is so real, so earnest, and so likeable that I found myself rooting for her from the very first scene. Ellie’s character is also the book’s redemption, because there are a few other things about the novel that I found irritating.
First of all, Ms. Prince has a proclivity for mixing tenses. I recently read an interview with her where she candidly admitted to this defect in her writing, and I hope that awareness proves to be the first step in conquering it in the future. But what boggled my mind was not so much how she can flit from the present to past to future in a single sentence, but how much of it made it through the editing process.
The other thing that bothered me about the book was the flow of the paranormal aspect of the storyline. Until well over half-way through the book I was reading a pretty good story focused on the developing relationship between Ellie and Oscar when, suddenly, the paranormal element was introduced out of left field and rather matter-of-factly. With absolutely no transition, it was hard for me to accept as a reader.
All that being said, I was forced to give this novel four stars because I could… not… put… it… down! For a day and a half, my kindle stayed in my hand as I prepared my meals, waited at the bus stop, in line at the coffee shop, and even when I was supposed to be writing. And by the end of the book all my reservations of how I got there were put aside, because the stage was set with a great scenario for a paranormal series. I can’t wait for the next book.
March 8, 2015
Chrysalis, by Michel Prince, is a New Adult (NA) paranormal book. This book is about two teenagers, Eleanor (Ellie) a white volleyball player and Oscar, a black three letter athlete. The setting of a high school, where the main characters are a sophomore and senior, would lead one to believe this was a young adult(YA) book. The content of this book is not appropriate for the Young Adult genre, despite the setting, which is why this book is better classified as New Adult. This book is over 200 pages of description of a typical dysfunctional family, the Chisholm’s.
The addition by the author of demons as the reason for the family dysfunction is not only confusing, but in reality took away from what could have been a great story. Ellie is the youngest of five children. She is portrayed as the only child that has her life together, at 16! One older brother was killed in a train accident, another is a drug addict, one older sister has four children, by three different men and the other sibling sells her body for everything. The parents do nothing to either support, or in any way parent the children.
The story wants us to believe that all these situations are caused by a deity that is pissed off because the mother chose her husband over him. I must admit that many of the situational high school issues included in this book were extremely realistic for today’s high schools. Many more teens are much more sexually active than many of us were at that age. Many more of them are attending school from homes where they do not feel love or acceptance. I very much enjoyed the parts of the book that did not deal with the “demons”.
Lastly, I was confused by the title. As an adult reading a YA or NA book, I did not expect to need a dictionary to explain the title, but I did. I had to look up the word after finishing the book to figure out what the title had to do with the story, since there was no reference to the title in the book. I will read the next installment in this series mainly because I want to see where the author takes the couple next.
-Reviewed by Selina
Merged review:
Chrysalis, by Michel Prince, is a New Adult (NA) paranormal book. This book is about two teenagers, Eleanor (Ellie) a white volleyball player and Oscar, a black three letter athlete. The setting of a high school, where the main characters are a sophomore and senior, would lead one to believe this was a young adult(YA) book. The content of this book is not appropriate for the Young Adult genre, despite the setting, which is why this book is better classified as New Adult. This book is over 200 pages of description of a typical dysfunctional family, the Chisholm’s.
The addition by the author of demons as the reason for the family dysfunction is not only confusing, but in reality took away from what could have been a great story. Ellie is the youngest of five children. She is portrayed as the only child that has her life together, at 16! One older brother was killed in a train accident, another is a drug addict, one older sister has four children, by three different men and the other sibling sells her body for everything. The parents do nothing to either support, or in any way parent the children.
The story wants us to believe that all these situations are caused by a deity that is pissed off because the mother chose her husband over him. I must admit that many of the situational high school issues included in this book were extremely realistic for today’s high schools. Many more teens are much more sexually active than many of us were at that age. Many more of them are attending school FROM HOMES where they do not feel love or acceptance. I very much enjoyed the parts of the book that did not deal with the “demons”.
Lastly, I was confused by the title. As an adult reading a YA or NA book, I did not expect to need a dictionary to explain the title, but I did. I had to look up the word after finishing the book to figure out what the title had to do with the story, since there was no reference to the title in the book. I will read the next installment in this series mainly because I want to see where the author takes the couple next.
-Reviewed by Selina
The addition by the author of demons as the reason for the family dysfunction is not only confusing, but in reality took away from what could have been a great story. Ellie is the youngest of five children. She is portrayed as the only child that has her life together, at 16! One older brother was killed in a train accident, another is a drug addict, one older sister has four children, by three different men and the other sibling sells her body for everything. The parents do nothing to either support, or in any way parent the children.
The story wants us to believe that all these situations are caused by a deity that is pissed off because the mother chose her husband over him. I must admit that many of the situational high school issues included in this book were extremely realistic for today’s high schools. Many more teens are much more sexually active than many of us were at that age. Many more of them are attending school from homes where they do not feel love or acceptance. I very much enjoyed the parts of the book that did not deal with the “demons”.
Lastly, I was confused by the title. As an adult reading a YA or NA book, I did not expect to need a dictionary to explain the title, but I did. I had to look up the word after finishing the book to figure out what the title had to do with the story, since there was no reference to the title in the book. I will read the next installment in this series mainly because I want to see where the author takes the couple next.
-Reviewed by Selina
Merged review:
Chrysalis, by Michel Prince, is a New Adult (NA) paranormal book. This book is about two teenagers, Eleanor (Ellie) a white volleyball player and Oscar, a black three letter athlete. The setting of a high school, where the main characters are a sophomore and senior, would lead one to believe this was a young adult(YA) book. The content of this book is not appropriate for the Young Adult genre, despite the setting, which is why this book is better classified as New Adult. This book is over 200 pages of description of a typical dysfunctional family, the Chisholm’s.
The addition by the author of demons as the reason for the family dysfunction is not only confusing, but in reality took away from what could have been a great story. Ellie is the youngest of five children. She is portrayed as the only child that has her life together, at 16! One older brother was killed in a train accident, another is a drug addict, one older sister has four children, by three different men and the other sibling sells her body for everything. The parents do nothing to either support, or in any way parent the children.
The story wants us to believe that all these situations are caused by a deity that is pissed off because the mother chose her husband over him. I must admit that many of the situational high school issues included in this book were extremely realistic for today’s high schools. Many more teens are much more sexually active than many of us were at that age. Many more of them are attending school FROM HOMES where they do not feel love or acceptance. I very much enjoyed the parts of the book that did not deal with the “demons”.
Lastly, I was confused by the title. As an adult reading a YA or NA book, I did not expect to need a dictionary to explain the title, but I did. I had to look up the word after finishing the book to figure out what the title had to do with the story, since there was no reference to the title in the book. I will read the next installment in this series mainly because I want to see where the author takes the couple next.
-Reviewed by Selina
September 2, 2012
This was a very moving and thought-provoking novel. The issues that are addressed are heartbreaking and are dealt with in a very real and honest way. Even though this is a paranormal read, it is also very true to life and could easily pass for a contemporary if the paranormal aspect was removed.
I loved both Ellie and Oscar. They are were perfect for each other. They both have a past that they need to confront if they are to have any hope of a happy future together. Ellie is a very vulnerable and damaged character. She has to deal with a family that is falling apart at the seams. With parents that don't notice her, a brother that is a drug addict, and two sisters who have no respect for their bodies or themselves, with one of them one step away from being a prostitute. Ellie must fight her inner demons that say she is no better than her sisters and is destined to have a life like theirs. She has to find the confidence and the courage to make more of herself and to realise that she deserves to be loved and to be happy for once.
Oscar also has his own past to deal with. He has to show people that he is no longer the school playboy but has grown up and wants to be a better man.
These two are perfect for each other. Their love is so real and sweet. They are each others rock and they help one another to grow and become stronger.
Along with all these issues, they also have to deal with the stigma of an inter-racial relationship. This I thought was dealt with in a very convincing way by the author. Oscar, the black senior, and Ellie, the white sophomore, come up against a lot of prejudice and hate. They have to deal with a constant stream of threats and insults that are thrown their way, especially Ellie. Their relationship comes under pressure as they try to not let the rumors and insults get to them. I have personally never witnessed problems with inter-racial couples where I live but I know that in America it is very different. I felt that the author dealt with the issue in a very honest way, she didn't sugar-coat anything.
Up until around the half-way mark you would be forgiven for thinking that this is a contemporary novel but we are slowly introduced to the bigger issue at hand. The story behind why Ellie's family is tormented by a demon was simply yet effective but I still feel that we haven't gotten the whole story and we can expect plenty more to be revealed in book 2.
Overall, this is a gripping, moving and thought-provoking novel that will appeal to both contemporary and paranormal lovers alike.
*Note 1: There were a few grammatical errors throughout the book but I received an ARC version so these errors might not be present in the final edition.
*Note 2: Due to the use of foul language and quite a lot of sexual references, I would recommend this to a more mature age group.
I received an e-copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review
I loved both Ellie and Oscar. They are were perfect for each other. They both have a past that they need to confront if they are to have any hope of a happy future together. Ellie is a very vulnerable and damaged character. She has to deal with a family that is falling apart at the seams. With parents that don't notice her, a brother that is a drug addict, and two sisters who have no respect for their bodies or themselves, with one of them one step away from being a prostitute. Ellie must fight her inner demons that say she is no better than her sisters and is destined to have a life like theirs. She has to find the confidence and the courage to make more of herself and to realise that she deserves to be loved and to be happy for once.
Oscar also has his own past to deal with. He has to show people that he is no longer the school playboy but has grown up and wants to be a better man.
These two are perfect for each other. Their love is so real and sweet. They are each others rock and they help one another to grow and become stronger.
Along with all these issues, they also have to deal with the stigma of an inter-racial relationship. This I thought was dealt with in a very convincing way by the author. Oscar, the black senior, and Ellie, the white sophomore, come up against a lot of prejudice and hate. They have to deal with a constant stream of threats and insults that are thrown their way, especially Ellie. Their relationship comes under pressure as they try to not let the rumors and insults get to them. I have personally never witnessed problems with inter-racial couples where I live but I know that in America it is very different. I felt that the author dealt with the issue in a very honest way, she didn't sugar-coat anything.
Up until around the half-way mark you would be forgiven for thinking that this is a contemporary novel but we are slowly introduced to the bigger issue at hand. The story behind why Ellie's family is tormented by a demon was simply yet effective but I still feel that we haven't gotten the whole story and we can expect plenty more to be revealed in book 2.
Overall, this is a gripping, moving and thought-provoking novel that will appeal to both contemporary and paranormal lovers alike.
*Note 1: There were a few grammatical errors throughout the book but I received an ARC version so these errors might not be present in the final edition.
*Note 2: Due to the use of foul language and quite a lot of sexual references, I would recommend this to a more mature age group.
I received an e-copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review
September 17, 2020
If you like mankind battling demons this is the series for you, but beware, these books are long, so don't accept this journey cavalierly.
Buy it, read it and enjoy!!👍🏾🔥👍🏾🔥👍🏾🔥👍🏾🔥👍🏾🔥
Buy it, read it and enjoy!!👍🏾🔥👍🏾🔥👍🏾🔥👍🏾🔥👍🏾🔥
September 12, 2012
Whenever I'm asked by an author to review a book I never read the reviews that the book has, purely because I don't want what I have to say or what I'm about to read to be influenced by what someone else has thought of it. However, I do have a quick scroll down through Goodreads and Amazon just to check how popular the book is. And what surprised me when I did that with Chrysalis was that it has very few reviews. And do you know why that surprised me? Because this book was so amazingly good!!! It was so good that I read it from start to finish in almost one sitting. It deserves to be read by many more people than what it has and have much greater recognition!!
Ellie Chisolm comes from the ultimate dysfunctional family. Parents who barely pay her any attention, a drug addicted brother and two sisters who have such little respect for their bodies. And she is so incredibly determined that she won't end up like any of them. From afar Ellie watches Oscar Jeffreys, the hottest guy in school, never in her wildest dreams imagining that the attraction she feels for him could be returned. But while their love is pure and sweet those around them aren't. Ellie is white and Oscar is black and they both have to deal with the racial slurs that are hurled at them all the while dealing with their own separate demons.
I loved this couple!! Their romance was beautiful and loving and sweet. But they also share some amazingly hot and passionate moments together!! Oscar expects a lot from Ellie and pushes her to deal with her inner demons and not hold back from him. He loves her completely, with passion and intensity and he wants exactly the same in return from her.
I had read the synopsis for Chrysalis a while back and hadn't read it again before I started reading it, so when I got to well over halfway through the book and the paranormal element was introduced it was a bit of a surprise. There really hadn't been any mention of it up until that point, but once it was there and it had inserted itself into the book I really enjoyed that aspect of the story. It added a whole other dimension to the book, which I loved!
Michel Prince has written an amazing book with a wonderful cast of characters. Her writing style is so easy to read and I cannot wait to read the next book in the series, The Beam and see what the author has in store!!
First posted at YA Book Addict... http://youngadultbookaddict.blogspot....
Ellie Chisolm comes from the ultimate dysfunctional family. Parents who barely pay her any attention, a drug addicted brother and two sisters who have such little respect for their bodies. And she is so incredibly determined that she won't end up like any of them. From afar Ellie watches Oscar Jeffreys, the hottest guy in school, never in her wildest dreams imagining that the attraction she feels for him could be returned. But while their love is pure and sweet those around them aren't. Ellie is white and Oscar is black and they both have to deal with the racial slurs that are hurled at them all the while dealing with their own separate demons.
I loved this couple!! Their romance was beautiful and loving and sweet. But they also share some amazingly hot and passionate moments together!! Oscar expects a lot from Ellie and pushes her to deal with her inner demons and not hold back from him. He loves her completely, with passion and intensity and he wants exactly the same in return from her.
I had read the synopsis for Chrysalis a while back and hadn't read it again before I started reading it, so when I got to well over halfway through the book and the paranormal element was introduced it was a bit of a surprise. There really hadn't been any mention of it up until that point, but once it was there and it had inserted itself into the book I really enjoyed that aspect of the story. It added a whole other dimension to the book, which I loved!
Michel Prince has written an amazing book with a wonderful cast of characters. Her writing style is so easy to read and I cannot wait to read the next book in the series, The Beam and see what the author has in store!!
First posted at YA Book Addict... http://youngadultbookaddict.blogspot....
January 28, 2016
Since it is a paranormal story I was hoping for some interesting read from page 1 but as the story progress and I learn more about the characters Ellie and Oscar there was nothing paranormal about the young people meeting and starting to date. Maybe too serious than I would like from such an young girl but seeing this is the trend in many YA novels I would leave it at that.
Both characters had their own interests excelling in their sports, supporting each other and the budding romance intensified with each page. Still I wondered where were the paranormal in the story when finally around page 126 it sprung out on you. With no real build up to know where it came from. It was just boom and the angel was there in the form of her best friend Kelly telling her to be aware of the evil illusions and deceptions from a demon called Gaap, that wants to destroy her happiness. (In my language Gaap means sleapy, or yawn) The demon even lacked some punch with a name like that.
In this story the fact that their love conquered the evil did win the story over into a good read. But I could not help but to feel wanting off some important information to clue me in. The saving angels in my opinion were absent in the saving department leaving the two young people to defend themselves against lies and attacks from the demonic presences.
I loved the character that portrayed Oscar's father, Mr Jefferson a firefighter with a Masters degree the only wise adult in this book. Helping and steering them to be wise towards each other. And I was happy to read that Oscar chastised Ellie on her lack of respect towards her mother. In my book just a big no no.
This is definitely a book for sixteen year readers and older since the love scenes is more then I expected in a Young Adult book. The seriousness of the growing love while still struggling to know who she was as a person clued you in off the immaturity of this young girl. Not ready for such an serious relationship portrait by the author.
Oscar's character coming close to handle such an love dealing with his past and setting his record straight. The protector and provider of Ellie's most basic needs. A fine young man no doubt.
Overall a good read.
Both characters had their own interests excelling in their sports, supporting each other and the budding romance intensified with each page. Still I wondered where were the paranormal in the story when finally around page 126 it sprung out on you. With no real build up to know where it came from. It was just boom and the angel was there in the form of her best friend Kelly telling her to be aware of the evil illusions and deceptions from a demon called Gaap, that wants to destroy her happiness. (In my language Gaap means sleapy, or yawn) The demon even lacked some punch with a name like that.
In this story the fact that their love conquered the evil did win the story over into a good read. But I could not help but to feel wanting off some important information to clue me in. The saving angels in my opinion were absent in the saving department leaving the two young people to defend themselves against lies and attacks from the demonic presences.
I loved the character that portrayed Oscar's father, Mr Jefferson a firefighter with a Masters degree the only wise adult in this book. Helping and steering them to be wise towards each other. And I was happy to read that Oscar chastised Ellie on her lack of respect towards her mother. In my book just a big no no.
This is definitely a book for sixteen year readers and older since the love scenes is more then I expected in a Young Adult book. The seriousness of the growing love while still struggling to know who she was as a person clued you in off the immaturity of this young girl. Not ready for such an serious relationship portrait by the author.
Oscar's character coming close to handle such an love dealing with his past and setting his record straight. The protector and provider of Ellie's most basic needs. A fine young man no doubt.
Overall a good read.
February 8, 2013
Chrysalis
By Michel Prince
Reviewed by Bree High
When you say the word dysfunctional a picture of Ellie's family should come up! I was blown away with everything that takes place behind the front door. Ellie might as well not ever be in the room for lack of attention she gets from her parents. Her sisters, well they tend to be on the wild side. She also has a drug abusing brother. The list goes on and it fuels Ellie Chisolm. Her goal is not be like ANY of them!
Oscar Jeffreys the hottest guy in school. Ellie secretly likes him, but never in her wildest dreams thinks he would like her. Right? Why would he? So she thinks!
The relationship has its issues and both have their own demons to deal with..and of course the racial slurs that they have to deal with well it does not help at all. They are sweet and a bit steamy too. Oscar is a good guy and I liked him. I loved them as a couple. I felt the connection they shared in story. Even with all the nonsense they deal with while being an interracial couple. They are good to one another. They make each other stronger. This story has a bit of everything and a twist to it that I did not see coming. Guess I should have taken the time to read a review prior. Actually I am glad I did not it was a nice surprise and added a wonderful element I had not expected. I'm just going to say read it and find out!
Chrysalis was a wonderful story. I enjoyed the characters and I look forward to the next book. Michel Prince you have a new fan. You wrote a beautiful relevant love story with a fabulous twist. Love it!
By Michel Prince
Reviewed by Bree High
When you say the word dysfunctional a picture of Ellie's family should come up! I was blown away with everything that takes place behind the front door. Ellie might as well not ever be in the room for lack of attention she gets from her parents. Her sisters, well they tend to be on the wild side. She also has a drug abusing brother. The list goes on and it fuels Ellie Chisolm. Her goal is not be like ANY of them!
Oscar Jeffreys the hottest guy in school. Ellie secretly likes him, but never in her wildest dreams thinks he would like her. Right? Why would he? So she thinks!
The relationship has its issues and both have their own demons to deal with..and of course the racial slurs that they have to deal with well it does not help at all. They are sweet and a bit steamy too. Oscar is a good guy and I liked him. I loved them as a couple. I felt the connection they shared in story. Even with all the nonsense they deal with while being an interracial couple. They are good to one another. They make each other stronger. This story has a bit of everything and a twist to it that I did not see coming. Guess I should have taken the time to read a review prior. Actually I am glad I did not it was a nice surprise and added a wonderful element I had not expected. I'm just going to say read it and find out!
Chrysalis was a wonderful story. I enjoyed the characters and I look forward to the next book. Michel Prince you have a new fan. You wrote a beautiful relevant love story with a fabulous twist. Love it!
April 24, 2013
I gave this book a 3 star rating instead of a 4 star rating for 2 reasons.
1. Based on the book description and cover I thought I was going to be reading a YA book. This IS NOT a YA book. The main plot of the book is defiantly geared toward YA/teen readers, but the extremely detailed descriptions of the romantic scenes are more than I expected from a YA book. The About the Author in the back of the book & on Goodreads say "Michel writes YOUNG ADULT and adult paranormal romance." But after looking at Michel's Facebook page and the book description on Amazon, I see that they say that she is "The author of NEW ADULT and adult paranormal romance."
NEW ADULT is a new genera of books recommended for readers 18 and up. I must say that I totally agree with that categorization of the book.
2. There are a lot of sentence errors in the book(missing words, extra words, or the wrong words being used.) While I do understand that things like that sometimes make it through the editing process, there were enough of them in this book to make it distracting at times and interfere with the flow of the story.
That being said, I really did enjoy the book and I fully intend on reading the next book in the series.
UPDATE:
**I was contacted by the author and it turns out that I mistakenly received an early version of the book. It has since been re-edited and new copies have been released.**
1. Based on the book description and cover I thought I was going to be reading a YA book. This IS NOT a YA book. The main plot of the book is defiantly geared toward YA/teen readers, but the extremely detailed descriptions of the romantic scenes are more than I expected from a YA book. The About the Author in the back of the book & on Goodreads say "Michel writes YOUNG ADULT and adult paranormal romance." But after looking at Michel's Facebook page and the book description on Amazon, I see that they say that she is "The author of NEW ADULT and adult paranormal romance."
NEW ADULT is a new genera of books recommended for readers 18 and up. I must say that I totally agree with that categorization of the book.
2. There are a lot of sentence errors in the book(missing words, extra words, or the wrong words being used.) While I do understand that things like that sometimes make it through the editing process, there were enough of them in this book to make it distracting at times and interfere with the flow of the story.
That being said, I really did enjoy the book and I fully intend on reading the next book in the series.
UPDATE:
**I was contacted by the author and it turns out that I mistakenly received an early version of the book. It has since been re-edited and new copies have been released.**
March 18, 2013
I'm not sure if I read a different blurb on this book, or just forgot what it was about before I got around to reading it, but this book completely blindsided me--in a weirdly good way. I had no idea that the supernatural parts were coming...this novel actually kind of read like two different books after the truth came out!
I was enjoying all of it though. Ellie is alright, a little neurotic, moody, but she's barely sixteen so that's to be expected. Oscar is amazing. He's extremely patient and understanding with Ellie, and with her family background she has a lot to be cautious about. The chemistry between Ellie and Oscar is sweet but hot when the sparks start to fly.
Ellie is helped along in her journey with the supernatural by her best friend, Kelly. Kelly is really cool and helps keep Ellie grounded and sane, which she definitely needs. I loved watching their interactions, as there were quite a few funny moments when they were together.
The second half of the book rolled along a lot quicker than the first, and although there were times I felt like the author was rambling, I liked the storyline a lot. This is a fun take on an angels versus demons tale, with plenty of romance thrown in. The ending was rather abrupt, but I think that there's so much more ahead for Oscar and Ellie!
I was enjoying all of it though. Ellie is alright, a little neurotic, moody, but she's barely sixteen so that's to be expected. Oscar is amazing. He's extremely patient and understanding with Ellie, and with her family background she has a lot to be cautious about. The chemistry between Ellie and Oscar is sweet but hot when the sparks start to fly.
Ellie is helped along in her journey with the supernatural by her best friend, Kelly. Kelly is really cool and helps keep Ellie grounded and sane, which she definitely needs. I loved watching their interactions, as there were quite a few funny moments when they were together.
The second half of the book rolled along a lot quicker than the first, and although there were times I felt like the author was rambling, I liked the storyline a lot. This is a fun take on an angels versus demons tale, with plenty of romance thrown in. The ending was rather abrupt, but I think that there's so much more ahead for Oscar and Ellie!
August 12, 2012
This is a great book for older teens. Ellie is a strong, yet vulnerable heroine who not only faces the unique challenges posed by a demon out to destroy her family, but also faces typical issues faced by ordinary teens. The dialogue and exchanges between the teens are realistic, and many of the situations seem genuine.
Oscar is an intriguing combination of player and Boy Scout, but with Ellie, he is willing to shed his player image and explore a real relationship. He's been hurt in the past and though he is patient with Ellie, his expectations are high. He's honest, intelligent, athletic, and sought after by everyone in school. He only has eyes for Ellie. Ellie has to learn to find her inner strength, to trust herself to make the right decisions, and to ask for help when she needs it.
Overall, this novel is terrific read, gripping and hard to put down.
Oscar is an intriguing combination of player and Boy Scout, but with Ellie, he is willing to shed his player image and explore a real relationship. He's been hurt in the past and though he is patient with Ellie, his expectations are high. He's honest, intelligent, athletic, and sought after by everyone in school. He only has eyes for Ellie. Ellie has to learn to find her inner strength, to trust herself to make the right decisions, and to ask for help when she needs it.
Overall, this novel is terrific read, gripping and hard to put down.
February 8, 2013
Michel pens "Chrysalis" as a nice love story about first loves with strong characters filled with emotion. The plot moved a bit slow for me in the beginning but once I hit around the 5th or 6th chapter things started picking up a bit. All in all it was an enjoyable read that I would recommended to all YA readers.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the author which was provided for an honest review.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the author which was provided for an honest review.
November 17, 2018
This was a fast paced story with lots of action!
I liked how well developed the characters were. The story was complex so a lot of fun. This book is the first of a series and I'm going on to the next one and can't wait.
I liked how well developed the characters were. The story was complex so a lot of fun. This book is the first of a series and I'm going on to the next one and can't wait.
December 16, 2018
Sigh.
This was looking good, you know. The main character wassomewhat a little kinda wasn't an annoying bitch and her romance with Oscar was pretty damned adorable. The author didn't shy away from portraying racism in a mixed school, most notably racism against whites because yes that is a thing and the story was moving, I guess a little bit maybe. I actually liked the message; breaking away from family trends, trying to be more than what you were given, that sort of thing. Because Ellie comes from white trash with whores for sisters and Oscar is the rich attractive all star quarterback everyone and their mothers want to bone, and they make it work despite their differences and shit. The secondary cast was nothing exceptional or even something to congratulate anyone about - I hereby rename Kelly "Miss Robot whose life revolves around Ellie"- but after all the shit I've been swimming through Imma call out my Stockholm Syndrome when I see it, alright?
But then DEMONS! :D
Just what in the actual fuck did that add to the story? It shows up at like 20% too! A little bit late to introduce the fucking plot! if I say so myself. And honestly, it was 110% useless, bc what the demons do is only to create illusions and organize things so that Ellie always ends up with the rapist.
But couldn't that happen anyway...?
Exactly, italics. The illusions only serve to create misunderstandings, they could've been switched for 1) drugs in Ellie's drink making her see things, 2) rumors and lies 3) staged pictures of girls kissing Oscar 4) old videos from his past that people make seem like it's recent, must I go on?
But magic tho! (∩^ᗜ^)⊃━☆ﾟ.*
Ah, yes. Why not have magic when you can, like seeing auras and doing... something with your feelings that's never explained but makes Oscar attack automatically when Ellie touches him and also rips a demon apart, at some point. Not like it ever serve a purpose except keeping the main characters from death because of their own stupidity.
Exhibit A: After learning a demon is after her happiness and can create illusions to make her sad, Ellie learns to see auras and never uses that power again. Then her best friend, Nice Guy™, comes rushing to her house and shows her a video of Oscar having sex with his ex. Despite her knowledge of the demon's tactics and her constant worry of it showing up again, Ellie's first reaction is to run out into the snowy wilds in her prom dress and go all the way to another city or smt where she stumbles onto a pack of wild rapists, well-known to hang around in the middle of a forest at 8 in the evening in the middle of winter.
Oscar somehow finds her- it's said she ran past him when she exited the house, maybe this all star quarterback ran after her the whole time without being able to catch up to her 5'2 ass? And Miss Robot shows up and kills all the rapists.
Let's talk about Kelly, shall we? She is exactly what I've described her as. A boring best friend character who only exists to show up and give the main character what they need before turning off until they're needed again. Ellie is having a mental breakdown in a class Kelly is not a part of? Kelly meets her in the hallway and tells her things even Ellie didn't know about her own mental state. Ellie needs 200$ to get Oscar's jacket? Kelly gives her the money. Ellie needs to learn demons are a thing in this story now? Kelly is here to explain everything in probably the most mood-killing exposition scene ever. Ellie needs to look cute? Don't worry Kelly is here to... tell her what the fuck to wear, not like Ellie can do that on her own am I rite.
Oh and she's also a guardian angel/goddess thing. It sounds important but don't you worry this character is never going to get interesting even when you bestow fucking godhood onto her.
Also can we just rant about her apparently being every female goddess ever while these goddesses having literally nothing to do with each other except the fact that they have a vagene
The ending shows how much the author cared about these characters; after falling in love with Oscar and going through demon-related highs and lows that only strengthen their bond and knowing that Oscar is in fact Ellie's true love -which is a retarded concept and I hate it- Ellie suddenly starts begging for this brand-new character's peen. He was never a thing before, I don't even remember if he got a description, but apparently his three opening lines consisting of "You could be manager" and "Who's that?" turn her own so greatly she can only think of his ass grinding hers when alone with Oscar.
Maybe she's got a coaching fetish...
All of this happened only because the author needed a climax and decided to fuck up the characterization instead of doing, you know- anything else.
This was looking good, you know. The main character was
But then DEMONS! :D
Just what in the actual fuck did that add to the story? It shows up at like 20% too! A little bit late to introduce the fucking plot! if I say so myself. And honestly, it was 110% useless, bc what the demons do is only to create illusions and organize things so that Ellie always ends up with the rapist.
But couldn't that happen anyway...?
Exactly, italics. The illusions only serve to create misunderstandings, they could've been switched for 1) drugs in Ellie's drink making her see things, 2) rumors and lies 3) staged pictures of girls kissing Oscar 4) old videos from his past that people make seem like it's recent, must I go on?
But magic tho! (∩^ᗜ^)⊃━☆ﾟ.*
Ah, yes. Why not have magic when you can, like seeing auras and doing... something with your feelings that's never explained but makes Oscar attack automatically when Ellie touches him and also rips a demon apart, at some point. Not like it ever serve a purpose except keeping the main characters from death because of their own stupidity.
Exhibit A: After learning a demon is after her happiness and can create illusions to make her sad, Ellie learns to see auras and never uses that power again. Then her best friend, Nice Guy™, comes rushing to her house and shows her a video of Oscar having sex with his ex. Despite her knowledge of the demon's tactics and her constant worry of it showing up again, Ellie's first reaction is to run out into the snowy wilds in her prom dress and go all the way to another city or smt where she stumbles onto a pack of wild rapists, well-known to hang around in the middle of a forest at 8 in the evening in the middle of winter.
Oscar somehow finds her- it's said she ran past him when she exited the house, maybe this all star quarterback ran after her the whole time without being able to catch up to her 5'2 ass? And Miss Robot shows up and kills all the rapists.
Let's talk about Kelly, shall we? She is exactly what I've described her as. A boring best friend character who only exists to show up and give the main character what they need before turning off until they're needed again. Ellie is having a mental breakdown in a class Kelly is not a part of? Kelly meets her in the hallway and tells her things even Ellie didn't know about her own mental state. Ellie needs 200$ to get Oscar's jacket? Kelly gives her the money. Ellie needs to learn demons are a thing in this story now? Kelly is here to explain everything in probably the most mood-killing exposition scene ever. Ellie needs to look cute? Don't worry Kelly is here to... tell her what the fuck to wear, not like Ellie can do that on her own am I rite.
Oh and she's also a guardian angel/goddess thing. It sounds important but don't you worry this character is never going to get interesting even when you bestow fucking godhood onto her.
Also can we just rant about her apparently being every female goddess ever while these goddesses having literally nothing to do with each other except the fact that they have a vagene
The ending shows how much the author cared about these characters; after falling in love with Oscar and going through demon-related highs and lows that only strengthen their bond and knowing that Oscar is in fact Ellie's true love -which is a retarded concept and I hate it- Ellie suddenly starts begging for this brand-new character's peen. He was never a thing before, I don't even remember if he got a description, but apparently his three opening lines consisting of "You could be manager" and "Who's that?" turn her own so greatly she can only think of his ass grinding hers when alone with Oscar.
Maybe she's got a coaching fetish...
All of this happened only because the author needed a climax and decided to fuck up the characterization instead of doing, you know- anything else.
February 2, 2013
The beginning of the book revealed a few great characters and the usual high-school environment of a YA novel. I enjoyed the multicultural relationship angle of the lead characters. It didn't make much difference to me personally, but I enjoyed the idea of breaking barriers in younger readers.
I instantly connected to Ellie and Oscar, so I knew no matter what, I'd enjoy the book. There were two things about it I didn't like though. Firstly, it delved far too much into sports for my liking. The lengthy details of sporting activities threatened to throw me out of the book once or twice, I admit. I'm really glad I didn't give up on it though. When one sees the cover, I realise I should have expected it, but as I didn't pay much attention to the cover story, it's entirely my fault. I hate sport, but for other's who enjoy it, or who chose the book for its sporty cover-theme, you'll be happy.
By around the fifth chapter, I'd become embroiled in the story. Intrigued by Oscar, I did wonder whether his feelings were genuine for Ellie, or manufactured for some more deadly purpose. This was, after all, a paranormal novel. I enjoyed the undercurrent of `what if?' which added suspense.
Secondly, I wasn't over-keen how long it took until anything paranormal kicked in. I chose to review it because of its paranormal elements, so felt a bit cheated until the midway-point. The novel was more romance than paranormal, in my humble opinion, so be aware of this when you make a selection. Again, I have to say, I really enjoyed the book, regardless. The paranormal elements, although sparing and arriving late, were well developed. The author wrote a good story and she did so well.
Regarding the romance elements, I should mention the heat level between Ellie and Oscar isn't exactly sweet. It's not chilli-pepper, but it's not quite sugar, either. Not that it bothered me, but I'd say be cautious and get this for over 14-15 year old's (according to their level of maturity).
Of course, I'm not a parent, so what do I know?
In all, this was an interesting take on YA romance ficiton, though sexually bold. The relationship will pull you in and once it's got you, you'll enjoy everything else too. Even if the sport nags and the paranormal takes it's time to arrive, you'll be glad you stuck with it. I am.
* I received an e-Copy of this book for the purposes of an honest review.
I instantly connected to Ellie and Oscar, so I knew no matter what, I'd enjoy the book. There were two things about it I didn't like though. Firstly, it delved far too much into sports for my liking. The lengthy details of sporting activities threatened to throw me out of the book once or twice, I admit. I'm really glad I didn't give up on it though. When one sees the cover, I realise I should have expected it, but as I didn't pay much attention to the cover story, it's entirely my fault. I hate sport, but for other's who enjoy it, or who chose the book for its sporty cover-theme, you'll be happy.
By around the fifth chapter, I'd become embroiled in the story. Intrigued by Oscar, I did wonder whether his feelings were genuine for Ellie, or manufactured for some more deadly purpose. This was, after all, a paranormal novel. I enjoyed the undercurrent of `what if?' which added suspense.
Secondly, I wasn't over-keen how long it took until anything paranormal kicked in. I chose to review it because of its paranormal elements, so felt a bit cheated until the midway-point. The novel was more romance than paranormal, in my humble opinion, so be aware of this when you make a selection. Again, I have to say, I really enjoyed the book, regardless. The paranormal elements, although sparing and arriving late, were well developed. The author wrote a good story and she did so well.
Regarding the romance elements, I should mention the heat level between Ellie and Oscar isn't exactly sweet. It's not chilli-pepper, but it's not quite sugar, either. Not that it bothered me, but I'd say be cautious and get this for over 14-15 year old's (according to their level of maturity).
Of course, I'm not a parent, so what do I know?
In all, this was an interesting take on YA romance ficiton, though sexually bold. The relationship will pull you in and once it's got you, you'll enjoy everything else too. Even if the sport nags and the paranormal takes it's time to arrive, you'll be glad you stuck with it. I am.
* I received an e-Copy of this book for the purposes of an honest review.
March 26, 2016
In most of my reviews, I try to start and end on a good note and bury the iffiness in the middle somewhere. However, this time I’m going to come right out with the bad news. The passage of time threw me a bit. When it felt like a few weeks had passed, it turns out a couple months have gone by, and vice versa. Thankfully, some landmarks are thrown in there, such as homecoming, Christmas, etc. Also, there was a severe lack of editing (words missing, repeated, etc), but I’m hoping that was simply due to reading an ARC.
This book is considered YA romance, but other than being set in high school, it doesn’t feel at all YA. The couple more often than not behave like adults and Oscar especially has a very adult past. Maybe I was sheltered as a teen, but I can’t imagine having had that kind of sexual history by 17. The biggest problem I had faced was that I was reading a YA novel, but at times felt like I was reading low level erotica. At first I thought it just felt very realistic in terms of being a hormone riddled teenager, but as I got further in the book, things only got more graphic.
Now with that said, I have to say that I loved the love story! They were very good together, and often pretty adorable. I enjoyed watching them deal with adversity and their own as well as each other’s inner demons. It made for a very emotional journey. Seriously, I cried several times while reading this book. The neat thing was that I honestly was expecting a contemporary story, but there’s a paranormal angle that sneaks up on you! I thought Kelly and Max were cool and like their backstory too, very creative. The best part is the message about what real love is and how it ought to be shared.
Packed with emotional turmoil and a few surprises, Chrysalis is a story of triumph over adversity in many forms. This story is not for the faint of heart. Check this one out, have tissues and be prepared for a not so young adult love story!
This book is considered YA romance, but other than being set in high school, it doesn’t feel at all YA. The couple more often than not behave like adults and Oscar especially has a very adult past. Maybe I was sheltered as a teen, but I can’t imagine having had that kind of sexual history by 17. The biggest problem I had faced was that I was reading a YA novel, but at times felt like I was reading low level erotica. At first I thought it just felt very realistic in terms of being a hormone riddled teenager, but as I got further in the book, things only got more graphic.
Now with that said, I have to say that I loved the love story! They were very good together, and often pretty adorable. I enjoyed watching them deal with adversity and their own as well as each other’s inner demons. It made for a very emotional journey. Seriously, I cried several times while reading this book. The neat thing was that I honestly was expecting a contemporary story, but there’s a paranormal angle that sneaks up on you! I thought Kelly and Max were cool and like their backstory too, very creative. The best part is the message about what real love is and how it ought to be shared.
Packed with emotional turmoil and a few surprises, Chrysalis is a story of triumph over adversity in many forms. This story is not for the faint of heart. Check this one out, have tissues and be prepared for a not so young adult love story!
January 30, 2015
Look up the word "dysfunctional" in the dictionary and you will see a picture of the Chisholm family--the parents are disconnected from their children, not caring whether their youngest daughter is home or not (she stays out overnight several times with the parents apparently not noticing), a drug addict for a son, a daughter who has children with multiple fathers, and another daughter who has questionable sources of money. Then there's Ellie.
Ellie has discovered that the star basketball player, Oscar, is interested in her. Although her best guy friend tries to convince her there are ulterior motives behind it, her other best friend is encouraging the relationship. And--about halfway through the book, Ellie learns some hard truths about herself and her family.
This book surprised me in that it did not begin like a typical supernatural/paranormal story, but when that aspect hit, it did so with vengeance. There are a lot of things going on--activities going on in another plane that Ellie is not aware of, and she finds out that note everyone is the way they seem or the way she has always thought them to be.
I don't want to say too much about the story for fear of spoilers, but if you are a fan of good vs. evil and angelic/demon activity and the way humans fit into the mixture, take a look. Warning: even though this book has teen characters, it is not a YA book.
Ellie has discovered that the star basketball player, Oscar, is interested in her. Although her best guy friend tries to convince her there are ulterior motives behind it, her other best friend is encouraging the relationship. And--about halfway through the book, Ellie learns some hard truths about herself and her family.
This book surprised me in that it did not begin like a typical supernatural/paranormal story, but when that aspect hit, it did so with vengeance. There are a lot of things going on--activities going on in another plane that Ellie is not aware of, and she finds out that note everyone is the way they seem or the way she has always thought them to be.
I don't want to say too much about the story for fear of spoilers, but if you are a fan of good vs. evil and angelic/demon activity and the way humans fit into the mixture, take a look. Warning: even though this book has teen characters, it is not a YA book.
November 4, 2014
Reviewer for Paranormal Romance and Authors that Rock
I give it 4.5 fangs.
Chrysalis: Book One of the Chrysalis Series by Michel Prince. I would suggest this book for young adults and adults.
Ellie “Eleanor” is the main character. She comes from a family that has issues. Oscar is her soon to be boyfriend. He is the star athlete at their school. She is a sophomore and he is a senior in high school. They fall for each other almost immediately. Even though one is white and the other is black, race is not an issue for them. It does stick its ugly head up now and then, but they always push it away. They have the normal issue with high school, but that isn’t the worst of their problems. Do you believe in demons?
The story starts off as a young romance and all of the sudden things change. And so does the lives of our couple. Their best friends are more than what they seem. And they wouldn’t make it through the story without them.
Without giving away any spoilers, if you like young romance thrown in with demons, then you will like this book. I will be reading the second book, The Beam next.
I give it 4.5 fangs.
Chrysalis: Book One of the Chrysalis Series by Michel Prince. I would suggest this book for young adults and adults.
Ellie “Eleanor” is the main character. She comes from a family that has issues. Oscar is her soon to be boyfriend. He is the star athlete at their school. She is a sophomore and he is a senior in high school. They fall for each other almost immediately. Even though one is white and the other is black, race is not an issue for them. It does stick its ugly head up now and then, but they always push it away. They have the normal issue with high school, but that isn’t the worst of their problems. Do you believe in demons?
The story starts off as a young romance and all of the sudden things change. And so does the lives of our couple. Their best friends are more than what they seem. And they wouldn’t make it through the story without them.
Without giving away any spoilers, if you like young romance thrown in with demons, then you will like this book. I will be reading the second book, The Beam next.
December 18, 2012
My teenage daughter read this book from start to finish in one sitting ... Not a peep from her room. When she emerged it was a tornado of when and how she was going to get the sequel. There had to be a sequel, lol.
She noticed mistakes that somehow made it through the editing process, but didn't care. I spoke to The author at a book signing and she apologized and said that they had been fixed (the editing issues in our copy were the only reason I gave it 4 stars).
My daughter is going to flip, she is getting the second book, "The Beam" for Christmas.
She noticed mistakes that somehow made it through the editing process, but didn't care. I spoke to The author at a book signing and she apologized and said that they had been fixed (the editing issues in our copy were the only reason I gave it 4 stars).
My daughter is going to flip, she is getting the second book, "The Beam" for Christmas.
November 27, 2014
~Received For An Honest Review~
Not sure how much closer to reality a book can get, but this one hit it! The reality of this story so many have experience within their own lives and families. It's well written, easy to follow and just that dang good!
Not sure how much closer to reality a book can get, but this one hit it! The reality of this story so many have experience within their own lives and families. It's well written, easy to follow and just that dang good!
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