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Touched #1
Blood Debt
Her whole life, it had just been the two of them. Before her mother’s last breath, she gave Camille the information she had craved her entire life: the identity of her father. Daring to contact him, Camille was welcomed by an entire family she never knew existed. But nothing comes without a price, as she discovers when her family claims a legendary heritage tracing back to a centaur touched by Zeus.
As she learns the secrets of her Centaur bloodline, she is drawn into a forbidden love with Drake. Her life may be the blood debt required to pay for her mother’s transgressions. The same person who once held her mother captive, and forced her into decades of hiding, now controls Camille. Her only chance is to seek a piece of her mother’s past that will win her freedom and the life she desperately wants.
As she learns the secrets of her Centaur bloodline, she is drawn into a forbidden love with Drake. Her life may be the blood debt required to pay for her mother’s transgressions. The same person who once held her mother captive, and forced her into decades of hiding, now controls Camille. Her only chance is to seek a piece of her mother’s past that will win her freedom and the life she desperately wants.
194 pages, ebook
First published July 13, 2012
296 people are currently reading
4145 people want to read
About the author
Nancy Straight
19 books508 followersNancy was born in Sioux City Iowa, left the cold of the Midwest in 1991 and only returns to see family in the summer time. She spent ten years traveling the world as a US Marine and settled in rural SC with her husband and two children.
She has written ten novels (3 x Paranormal Romance, 4 x Mythological Romance and 3 x Suspenseful Romance). Nancy enjoys reading all types of Paranormal and Young Adult literature.
She has written ten novels (3 x Paranormal Romance, 4 x Mythological Romance and 3 x Suspenseful Romance). Nancy enjoys reading all types of Paranormal and Young Adult literature.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 384 reviews
August 2, 2012
Quick review:
Cover: Very Pretty
Rating: PG-13
Thumbs Up: 4.5
Overall: Very unique and sucked me right in.
Characters: Solid
Plot: I can’t even explain without giving too much away.
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? Yes
Recommend: Yes
Book Boyfriend: Drake (but Chris stole my heart)
SUMMARY (50 words or less)
The cover and the fact that Nancy Straight wrote it made my decision. I had no idea what I was stepping into. And I never would have guessed. The story was wonderfully unique. The romance was stellar with a great guy that didn’t have to be bad to be good.
To see my full review and yummy pic, check out my blog post below.
http://mybookboyfriend.blogspot.com/2...
Cover: Very Pretty
Rating: PG-13
Thumbs Up: 4.5
Overall: Very unique and sucked me right in.
Characters: Solid
Plot: I can’t even explain without giving too much away.
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? Yes
Recommend: Yes
Book Boyfriend: Drake (but Chris stole my heart)
SUMMARY (50 words or less)
The cover and the fact that Nancy Straight wrote it made my decision. I had no idea what I was stepping into. And I never would have guessed. The story was wonderfully unique. The romance was stellar with a great guy that didn’t have to be bad to be good.
To see my full review and yummy pic, check out my blog post below.
http://mybookboyfriend.blogspot.com/2...
June 22, 2014
I gave it two stars for the originality of the concept, but otherwise this book was pretty awful. The characters were lackluster, and there was about 0 action or character development until the very end of the book. It goes: Girl gets introduced to her long-lost dream family, meets a guy, falls in love with said guy after about 20 seconds, schemes away about how to be with him. Really, the romance here was the main plot driver of the book, and it wasn't even very good. The book isn't very long, and the author wastes most of her pages acclimating her main character to this perfect new world she's joined. Everything focuses on how rich her long-lost family is, how stunningly attractive her half-brothers are (*ahem*, creepy) and that's about it. It was eerie, the way they instantly drew Camille in. I thought that would be a great opportunity for some sort of plot twist, with how wary Camille was of these people. There was definitely a something-is-off-here vibe with the new family. Instead, the author left it with "surprise! These people are really perfect! Nothing interesting here!" Hmmm, boring.
Another thing that drove me crazy was the ridiculous dynamic of Centaur society, where no one is allowed to date and everyone is forced into an arranged marriage by their 29th birthday. Women are treated like resources rather than people. Oh, sure, you could argue that they're a "precious" resource, but that's not an excuse for treating someone like a thing instead of a person. It's like the women are tokens to be traded back and forth between families, the way diplomatic marriages were arranged between major powers back in the day. The difference is this story is supposed to take place in the 21st century, and that shit is not okay. And what makes even more not-okay is how the author, a woman, is happily perpetuating this stereotype that women are perfectly happy to be treated as commodities as long as you give them lots of money and nice clothes. GAH. I don't know, maybe some female readers will be drawn to this story as a nice escape, where they can daydream about being spoiled rotten with a hot new guy who simply adores them 2 days after having met. Personally, I don't like these kinds of stories because there's nothing in them to keep me entertained.
I spent the whole novel frustrated at the stupid attitudes of the Centaur community, rolling my eyes at the cheesy romance, and shaking my head at Camille. She had her moments of defiance, but nothing about the way her character was written made her feel like a real person. The author did a good job of making the villain someone to despise, and so I was eager to see Camille escape. But that's because I was angry with the whole classically evil, moustache-twirling fiasco that was the bad guy, not because I felt connected with Camille.
All in all, I started out with high hopes for this book. The ratings are good, the mythology is certainly interesting, but the execution failed dramatically.
Another thing that drove me crazy was the ridiculous dynamic of Centaur society, where no one is allowed to date and everyone is forced into an arranged marriage by their 29th birthday. Women are treated like resources rather than people. Oh, sure, you could argue that they're a "precious" resource, but that's not an excuse for treating someone like a thing instead of a person. It's like the women are tokens to be traded back and forth between families, the way diplomatic marriages were arranged between major powers back in the day. The difference is this story is supposed to take place in the 21st century, and that shit is not okay. And what makes even more not-okay is how the author, a woman, is happily perpetuating this stereotype that women are perfectly happy to be treated as commodities as long as you give them lots of money and nice clothes. GAH. I don't know, maybe some female readers will be drawn to this story as a nice escape, where they can daydream about being spoiled rotten with a hot new guy who simply adores them 2 days after having met. Personally, I don't like these kinds of stories because there's nothing in them to keep me entertained.
I spent the whole novel frustrated at the stupid attitudes of the Centaur community, rolling my eyes at the cheesy romance, and shaking my head at Camille. She had her moments of defiance, but nothing about the way her character was written made her feel like a real person. The author did a good job of making the villain someone to despise, and so I was eager to see Camille escape. But that's because I was angry with the whole classically evil, moustache-twirling fiasco that was the bad guy, not because I felt connected with Camille.
All in all, I started out with high hopes for this book. The ratings are good, the mythology is certainly interesting, but the execution failed dramatically.
July 22, 2012
"Blood Debt" is a refreshing, fascinating and unique read about the world of the centaurs. Why refreshing? Let's face it most of the books on the market are vampires, weres, angels, and demons. However, hardly anyone has explored the Greek myths of the centaurs.
22 year old Camille Chiron lives in San Diego, California and is grieving from the loss of her mother due to cancer. On her death bed, Cami's mother finally reveals the name of her father and where he lives. Most all girls love their Dads even if they have not met them. Cami is no exception. She has fantasized about who he is. She does a background check and informs her best friend, Daniel that she is going to contact him. After stalling for as long as she can, she finally breaks down and calls him.
Will Strayer lives in Charleston, South Carolina with his wife and five sons. When he receives a call from Cami and discovers he has a daughter, he is estactic. He flies her into S.C. to meet her. However, when she arrives she is greeted by her half brother, Beau. He takes her to a restaurant where she gets to meet her other brothers. They all embrace her dearly without question. Even Will's wife, Gretchen embraces Cami much to the surprise of Daniel.
Will confesses to Cami that he and her mother had an affair. When her mother found out he was married she broke off all contact with him. Additionally, Cami discovers that she is a centauride (female centaur) who should have powers including reading the thoughts of others. Before she has an opportunity to learn these skills, her oldest step-brother is getting married in the garden of their estate. Prior to the wedding, Will informs Cami that her mother ran out on her fiance, Kyle Richardson 24 years ago causing a blood debt to be owed to him. Kyle has discovered Cami's existence and plans to be at the wedding. He wants to meet with her. She is nonplussed but agrees to the meeting.
Before Cami can even get dressed for the wedding eligible men are anxious to meet her. It seems that with centaurs, there are few women to go around and they hold the power and decide who they will marry. If a centaurian man is not engaged by 29 he will then marry a human but his bloodline will be diluted. While descending the stairs with her father, Cami trips and almost falls flat on her face. However, a handsome stranger, Drake Nash comes swiftly to her rescue and she extends her hand in his to introduce herself. This is a serious no no in the world of the centaurs. Unmarried women and men are not to touch or meet without escorts. They are not allowed to date and often their marriages are arranges by their parents.
Life is about to become extremely complicated for Cami because unbeknownst to her, she has other relatives that will do just about anything to get their hands on her. No matter how much her new family vows to protect her, her entire future is at risk and maybe even her life.
I truly enjoyed this book. The writing was excellent and the plot was extremely engaging. I enjoyed the characters especially Bianca and Drake. I also found that I liked Gretchen, Cami's step-mother. If I had a criticism, it would be that at times, Cami did not always make logical choices. What I mean by this is she would postpone practicing the very skills she needed to contact her mother, read people's thoughts and empower herself. Because of this, at times I felt she was weak. However, do not allow these comments to keep you from enjoying a truly good read. As I stated earlier, this book is uniquely refreshing and I cannot wait to find out what will happen next in book two.
22 year old Camille Chiron lives in San Diego, California and is grieving from the loss of her mother due to cancer. On her death bed, Cami's mother finally reveals the name of her father and where he lives. Most all girls love their Dads even if they have not met them. Cami is no exception. She has fantasized about who he is. She does a background check and informs her best friend, Daniel that she is going to contact him. After stalling for as long as she can, she finally breaks down and calls him.
Will Strayer lives in Charleston, South Carolina with his wife and five sons. When he receives a call from Cami and discovers he has a daughter, he is estactic. He flies her into S.C. to meet her. However, when she arrives she is greeted by her half brother, Beau. He takes her to a restaurant where she gets to meet her other brothers. They all embrace her dearly without question. Even Will's wife, Gretchen embraces Cami much to the surprise of Daniel.
Will confesses to Cami that he and her mother had an affair. When her mother found out he was married she broke off all contact with him. Additionally, Cami discovers that she is a centauride (female centaur) who should have powers including reading the thoughts of others. Before she has an opportunity to learn these skills, her oldest step-brother is getting married in the garden of their estate. Prior to the wedding, Will informs Cami that her mother ran out on her fiance, Kyle Richardson 24 years ago causing a blood debt to be owed to him. Kyle has discovered Cami's existence and plans to be at the wedding. He wants to meet with her. She is nonplussed but agrees to the meeting.
Before Cami can even get dressed for the wedding eligible men are anxious to meet her. It seems that with centaurs, there are few women to go around and they hold the power and decide who they will marry. If a centaurian man is not engaged by 29 he will then marry a human but his bloodline will be diluted. While descending the stairs with her father, Cami trips and almost falls flat on her face. However, a handsome stranger, Drake Nash comes swiftly to her rescue and she extends her hand in his to introduce herself. This is a serious no no in the world of the centaurs. Unmarried women and men are not to touch or meet without escorts. They are not allowed to date and often their marriages are arranges by their parents.
Life is about to become extremely complicated for Cami because unbeknownst to her, she has other relatives that will do just about anything to get their hands on her. No matter how much her new family vows to protect her, her entire future is at risk and maybe even her life.
I truly enjoyed this book. The writing was excellent and the plot was extremely engaging. I enjoyed the characters especially Bianca and Drake. I also found that I liked Gretchen, Cami's step-mother. If I had a criticism, it would be that at times, Cami did not always make logical choices. What I mean by this is she would postpone practicing the very skills she needed to contact her mother, read people's thoughts and empower herself. Because of this, at times I felt she was weak. However, do not allow these comments to keep you from enjoying a truly good read. As I stated earlier, this book is uniquely refreshing and I cannot wait to find out what will happen next in book two.
August 1, 2012
Camille opens a can of worms that would have been better left closed when she calls her dad after her mom passes away. Her father has her come and visit and she discovers she has 5 brothers and a step-mom. When she arrives she is embraced by them all with adoration. She feels like a princess and is happy to have family. However, she soon learns that she may have to pay a debt in her mothers place. The night before her mom was to be married she ran away and by the society she is a part of she may have to pay a blood debt to the man her mother ran out on.
I'm gonna be perfectly honest. I love Nancy! I read her first series in 3 days. I couldn't get enough of it! Reading Nancy's books is so easy, they just flow along. It's easy to get caught up and just read without even realizing time is passing by. I didn't think it could be replaced, but it is gonna have to go after Nancy's new Touched series. Seriously! This book is freaking fabulous! I cried at parts and was ecstatically happy at others. SO GOOD! I would seriously suggest you Run your sweet buns to your nearest book store or down load this baby ASAP! Just like with Destiny my only gripe is that I now have to wait until December for Blood Ties! I think if all of these were out I would have ripped through them as well. Way to go Nancy, you just keep getting better and better!!
I'm gonna be perfectly honest. I love Nancy! I read her first series in 3 days. I couldn't get enough of it! Reading Nancy's books is so easy, they just flow along. It's easy to get caught up and just read without even realizing time is passing by. I didn't think it could be replaced, but it is gonna have to go after Nancy's new Touched series. Seriously! This book is freaking fabulous! I cried at parts and was ecstatically happy at others. SO GOOD! I would seriously suggest you Run your sweet buns to your nearest book store or down load this baby ASAP! Just like with Destiny my only gripe is that I now have to wait until December for Blood Ties! I think if all of these were out I would have ripped through them as well. Way to go Nancy, you just keep getting better and better!!
August 15, 2012
I'm often hesitant to pick up books by self published authors, having had some bad experience with great stories being ruined due to bad editing and research. But I know Nancy is good friends with one of my favourite indie authors, Shannon Dermott, so when I seen it on R2R, I grabbed a copy.
This is my first time reading one of Nancy's books and, I'm impressed. The editing was exemplary, the characters were well defined, it was well paced and imaginative. I look forward to reading more books from Nancy.
Camille has never met her dad because her mom would never tell her who he was, until she was on her death bed. When Camille calls him, she is surprised to be welcomed into his family completely by his wife and five sons. She thinks she has landed in a dream world until she learns that her life is in danger.
She is a centaur, and has been kept hidden by magic for the last twenty two years, but the magic died with her mother, so she is now on the radar of her enemies. Her mother never told her about her heritage so she has to try to learn the centaur way of life and how to use the magic she has been gifted with. She owes a blood debt to the man her mother refused to marry by running away and she is wanted by the lost herd.
This was refreshingly different. Centaurs are something completely new to me, and I loved the world that Nancy built around them. Camille is a very likable character and there's a great bunch of secondary characters which really add to this story.
This has something for the romantics too, though I don't think Camille's choice would have been mine. There's no love triangle or insta love.
The next installment is this book is based in Dublin, Ireland, so I couldn't not pick it up. There are some loose ends in this book too that I'm really looking forward to tying up.
This is my first time reading one of Nancy's books and, I'm impressed. The editing was exemplary, the characters were well defined, it was well paced and imaginative. I look forward to reading more books from Nancy.
Camille has never met her dad because her mom would never tell her who he was, until she was on her death bed. When Camille calls him, she is surprised to be welcomed into his family completely by his wife and five sons. She thinks she has landed in a dream world until she learns that her life is in danger.
She is a centaur, and has been kept hidden by magic for the last twenty two years, but the magic died with her mother, so she is now on the radar of her enemies. Her mother never told her about her heritage so she has to try to learn the centaur way of life and how to use the magic she has been gifted with. She owes a blood debt to the man her mother refused to marry by running away and she is wanted by the lost herd.
This was refreshingly different. Centaurs are something completely new to me, and I loved the world that Nancy built around them. Camille is a very likable character and there's a great bunch of secondary characters which really add to this story.
This has something for the romantics too, though I don't think Camille's choice would have been mine. There's no love triangle or insta love.
The next installment is this book is based in Dublin, Ireland, so I couldn't not pick it up. There are some loose ends in this book too that I'm really looking forward to tying up.
August 26, 2012
I have been a fan of Nancy Straight ever since I read the first book of her Destiny series. After I finished it, I immediately went to Amazon and purchased the next two books. I would have done that with Blood Debt as well but, sadly, the rest of the series isn't out yet. However, I look forward to the rest of the series with great anticipation. Here's why I love it…
First is the story itself. I think the thing I love the most is the uniqueness of it. The mythology woven into the story is creative and original. I really enjoyed the author's new perspective on the centaurs and gods.
Second is the characters. Camille is a great lead. She is independent, funny and strong. We are introduced to her and given some background on her, and then her world is turned upsidedown. The story follows her as she learns about who and what she really is and what that means for her.
The rest of the characters, from her new family to her new friends to her old friends, are written with dimension, enough that I am looking forward to reading more about them, especially her old friend Daniel.
Last is the author's writing style. She has a way with words that makes the story flow smoothly and fun to read. The story is sprinkled with bits of humor, and there is never a dull moment, holding your attention to the very last word. The story is full of action, mystery, romance and heartache. What more could you ask for?
Interview with Nancy Straight!
http://makingconnectionsgroup.blogspo...
First is the story itself. I think the thing I love the most is the uniqueness of it. The mythology woven into the story is creative and original. I really enjoyed the author's new perspective on the centaurs and gods.
Second is the characters. Camille is a great lead. She is independent, funny and strong. We are introduced to her and given some background on her, and then her world is turned upsidedown. The story follows her as she learns about who and what she really is and what that means for her.
The rest of the characters, from her new family to her new friends to her old friends, are written with dimension, enough that I am looking forward to reading more about them, especially her old friend Daniel.
Last is the author's writing style. She has a way with words that makes the story flow smoothly and fun to read. The story is sprinkled with bits of humor, and there is never a dull moment, holding your attention to the very last word. The story is full of action, mystery, romance and heartache. What more could you ask for?
Interview with Nancy Straight!
http://makingconnectionsgroup.blogspo...
October 19, 2012
Love this and swooning over Drake!I loved being whisked away into this original and fabulous story. There is something to be said about a book that can pull you in, you don't want to put it down, and you don't want it to ever end. Blood Debt did that to me. Nancy Straight has penned a marvelous story with many swoon worthy moments packed full of action, suspense,a forbidden love, and brings a new twist on mythological Centaurs. This was a total “me” book, and I say this because even though there were a few tiny flat spots, the story itself was just so enticing and fascinating.
From the very beginning I was tuned into the story. My attention never wavered due to lack of consistency or pace or cliché material. These characters were awesome ! I loved the protagonist, Camille. She was strong, snarky and a force to reckon with. Camille just lost her mother to cancer, and she never knew who her father was. Before her mother's death, she told Camille where her father was and his name. Camille caught a flight to meet her father and from that point forward, everything changed for her. She learning she had a family which included 5 very gorgeous brothers! Five!! The cast of characters were awesome. Camille wasn't the normal twenty-two year old she thought she was--Camille was in for the ride of her life and a quest to channel her unknown bloodline gifts from the gods.
"Right, I know you still have this idea that your're human and can go roll in the hay with any guy who catches your fancy, but that isn't your reality anymore."
There's a blood debt to be paid and Camille is tossed in the middle of it.
"I owe a blood debt to Kyle Richardson. He isn't going to force me to marry his son, at least not right away, but if his son hasn't been chosen by a Centauride by his twenty-ninth birthday, I have to choose him." *shivers* If you are looking for that "next-hot-guy-to-swoon-over" or "next-hot-couple" this is it!! Let me just tell you about this amazing guy, Drake. Not only is he described beautifully, but he is as swoonworthy as they get. I don't want to give away all the goodies, so you'll just have to trust me on this. The chemistry between Camille and Drake was intoxicating. These characters were awesome. So awesome in fact, that I couldn't get them out of my mind. Bianca was such a great friend to Camille and I just adored her. This was full of many unexpected plot twist and turns. I think my jaw had dropped at least 5 times, I kid you not. I CANNOT WAIT to get my hands on the second installment, Centaur Legacy (Touched, #2).
This story was packed full of chemistry, mythological characters, and plenty of hot swoonworthy guys. Throw in a sinister, power mad grandmother and a crazy uncle, too.
This book was addicting! Trust me, you'll want to read this!
August 24, 2014
I absolutely loved this book! Nancy Straight has started a wonderful new series with Blood Debt, which is book one of the Touched series. Just as with Meeting Destiny, Nancy has created endearing characters, a brand new world of adventure, and once again introduces originality into the paranormal romance genre which is refreshing amidst so many overused plots today. I felt an immediate connection to Cami in the first chapter and grew to love her more as the story progressed. The book is full of interesting characters and adventure. The ending definitely left me wanting to read more! I can't wait for the next story in the series. Bravo Mrs. straight, Bravo!!!
October 12, 2012
This review also appears on Happy Indulgence. Check it out for more reviews!
Blood Debt is an amazingly unique book about Camille, a girl born from a Centaur bloodline, who discovers that shes a revered Centauride (or female Centaur) within a hidden society filled with strange customs. I've never read a book about Centaurs and found the mythology within this quite fascinating.
Centaurs live amongst humans and are not half horse half human, instead they are derived from the descendants of Chiron, the god of Centaurs. Female centaurs are incredibly rare amongst their kind, as they hold psychic powers like mind reading and ability to interact with ghosts.
When Camille stumbles upon a family she never knew she had, she faces danger as she discovers that she needs to fill her mothers 'blood debt' to another family. Her hand is marriage is controlled by a sinister Centaur, and we soon discover there are other forces at risk here.
I quite enjoyed Blood Debt and was impressed with its imaginative setting and mythology. The story evolves quite quickly from Camille discovering her new family, to her bloodline, to meeting a handsome Centaur and to sinister circumstances out of her control. There's quite a lot happening here, and it certainly keeps things interesting.
I can't say too much more without spoiling things, but the circumstances seemed perfect with her newfound love interest, Drake and her new best friend, Bianca. The author however delivers shocking twists and constantly changing circumstances to keep you guessing.
Downsides to the book, was Camille herself. I found the way she questioned everything and her stubbornness to comply with some of the newfound rules quite annoying. Surely she could be more open minded when it came to some things. Without an editor, the author has done a fantastic job at this indie title, but I could see where the dialogues between characters could be tightened up a bit.
Overall, this is a read that you absolutely have to pick up if you love the thought of reading about Centaurs. I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review, thank you so much Nancy!
I also recommend checking out her Meeting Destiny series, if you prefer a more realistic fiction/romance.
Blood Debt is an amazingly unique book about Camille, a girl born from a Centaur bloodline, who discovers that shes a revered Centauride (or female Centaur) within a hidden society filled with strange customs. I've never read a book about Centaurs and found the mythology within this quite fascinating.
Centaurs live amongst humans and are not half horse half human, instead they are derived from the descendants of Chiron, the god of Centaurs. Female centaurs are incredibly rare amongst their kind, as they hold psychic powers like mind reading and ability to interact with ghosts.
When Camille stumbles upon a family she never knew she had, she faces danger as she discovers that she needs to fill her mothers 'blood debt' to another family. Her hand is marriage is controlled by a sinister Centaur, and we soon discover there are other forces at risk here.
I quite enjoyed Blood Debt and was impressed with its imaginative setting and mythology. The story evolves quite quickly from Camille discovering her new family, to her bloodline, to meeting a handsome Centaur and to sinister circumstances out of her control. There's quite a lot happening here, and it certainly keeps things interesting.
I can't say too much more without spoiling things, but the circumstances seemed perfect with her newfound love interest, Drake and her new best friend, Bianca. The author however delivers shocking twists and constantly changing circumstances to keep you guessing.
Downsides to the book, was Camille herself. I found the way she questioned everything and her stubbornness to comply with some of the newfound rules quite annoying. Surely she could be more open minded when it came to some things. Without an editor, the author has done a fantastic job at this indie title, but I could see where the dialogues between characters could be tightened up a bit.
Overall, this is a read that you absolutely have to pick up if you love the thought of reading about Centaurs. I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review, thank you so much Nancy!
I also recommend checking out her Meeting Destiny series, if you prefer a more realistic fiction/romance.
January 25, 2017
I wanted to write a short review here, but I have no idea where to start with all the problems I had with this book.
Full review on my blog.
For some quick points:
- Everyone in Cami's life is perfect. She discovers her perfect father, perfect 5 half-brothers that are indistinguishable from each other, perfect Gretchen(the mother to her half-brothers), perfect house, perfect car, perfect friends, etc.
Everyone is rich, healthy, happy, friendly, welcoming, with great jobs. She's the hottest thing on the marriage market and has guys lining up(perfect guys) to give her their husband resumes. It's all so ridiculous I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop, but it turns out it's all 100% legit.
- Any possible problem Cami runs into is quickly dealt with so that faces very little adversity.
- Worst case of insta-love(Drake catches Cami when she trips and is head over heels ready to propose in love with her).
- The antagonist is a non-issue for most of the book and when she does decide to be a nuisance, it makes no sense. She tells Cami she has to marry a person that Cami had already agreed to marry in a few years. Why did she even bother getting involved?
- Any slightly interesting element was either forgotten or fell flat when revealed. Cami finds a diary from her mom and reads all of two short entries and we're not told the rest of it. Cami's dead mom is desperate to tell her a secret that she won't tell anyone who can actually communicate with her. Then at the very end when Cami finally can talk to her the mom doesn't tell her the secret and instead uses that brief moment to say something that no one cares about. Then she fades before saying the important thing.
- In short, this book was boring, underwhelming, full of issues, and seems to be written as a fantasy-fulfillment type story(for readers who want to dream about falling into the "perfect" life).
I'll share a full review later that'll go indepth into my dislikes of the book.
Full review on my blog.
For some quick points:
- Everyone in Cami's life is perfect. She discovers her perfect father, perfect 5 half-brothers that are indistinguishable from each other, perfect Gretchen(the mother to her half-brothers), perfect house, perfect car, perfect friends, etc.
Everyone is rich, healthy, happy, friendly, welcoming, with great jobs. She's the hottest thing on the marriage market and has guys lining up(perfect guys) to give her their husband resumes. It's all so ridiculous I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop, but it turns out it's all 100% legit.
- Any possible problem Cami runs into is quickly dealt with so that faces very little adversity.
- Worst case of insta-love(Drake catches Cami when she trips and is head over heels ready to propose in love with her).
- The antagonist is a non-issue for most of the book and when she does decide to be a nuisance, it makes no sense. She tells Cami she has to marry a person that Cami had already agreed to marry in a few years. Why did she even bother getting involved?
- Any slightly interesting element was either forgotten or fell flat when revealed. Cami finds a diary from her mom and reads all of two short entries and we're not told the rest of it. Cami's dead mom is desperate to tell her a secret that she won't tell anyone who can actually communicate with her. Then at the very end when Cami finally can talk to her the mom doesn't tell her the secret and instead uses that brief moment to say something that no one cares about. Then she fades before saying the important thing.
- In short, this book was boring, underwhelming, full of issues, and seems to be written as a fantasy-fulfillment type story(for readers who want to dream about falling into the "perfect" life).
I'll share a full review later that'll go indepth into my dislikes of the book.
September 25, 2012
3.5/4 stars
I was a bit hesitant the first time I saw this but eventually I decided to give it a shot – and I’m so glad I did. Nancy Straight has brought something wonderfully refreshing to the YA market. Angels, demons, vampires, werewolves? Faeries or mermaids? You can temporarily put them to the back of your mind while you read about centaurs instead.
Camille has never known her father, though not for lack of trying. Her entire life her mother refused to say much about him but on her deathbed, she finally gives Camille some information – a way to contact him. It’s not long before she finds herself at her father’s house, meeting an entire family she never knew existed, but being welcomed with open arms. But despite the seemingly pleasant, ordinary surface, Camille learns that not only is she a centaur with magic in her blood, she is expected to pay a blood debt for her mother’s mistakes. And that’s only the start of her problems.
I have to say, I haven’t read much of centaurs. I think the only time I’ve come across them is in the Partholon series by P.C. Cast (I miss you, ClanFintan! *sighs dreamily*). I was a little bit worried that the book wouldn’t manage to live up to the novelty of a different genre, but that concern did disappear after a while. I enjoyed learning about some of the customs the centaurs had and how they came to be. The author also included a couple of twists, taking a basic preconception of what a centaur is, claiming that it’s wrong and then twisting it again. Something I would have liked to see is more about centaurs generally – the book focuses primarily on their ideas regarding marriage and relationships, and I think it would have been really interesting to learn about other aspects of their lives.
Cami was a strong character, which really appealed to me. Let me tell you, if this girl thinks something is wrong, she absolutely refuses to go through with it. It takes a lot to break her. She knows how to stand up for herself, something I seriously appreciate in people and characters. She was also a little cautious when it came to her new family’s reception of her, although I think she was quite quick to shake off that caution. That reception, too, was something I found quite unbelievable. Secrets or not, I find it very hard to accept that an entire family could be that happy with finding out there’s another of them. A question was raised as to Cami’s father’s wife, and it was never really answered, so I hope to see that answer in the sequel.
I really liked Bianca and Drake; they were both full of integrity and Bianca especially surprised me in her total lack of ill-feeling towards Cami. When I first met her I was a little suspicious, but then they became best friends and reading from her perspective showed her to be a truly sweet character. The guy she was in love with also surprised me, although I think the delivery of that knowledge in the writing could have been much more effective. Drake was really sweet too. In fact, most of these characters – Biance, Drake, Gage, Cami’s new brothers – really had me warming to them.
Zandra, however. Zandra is another story. I won’t say exactly who she is, in case it’s a spoiler, but what I will say is that she. Was. Evil. I absolutely could not believe what. On earth. She was doing. She made me angry, she had me gasping in horror, she just...ugh. I just...I can’t. And then after all that, when Cami made a dismissive remark about her, all I could think was, ‘Are you crazy? Where have you just been?’ She was a little stupid there.
Overall, this was a really enjoyable book. I had some issues with the writing itself, there were a few grammatical errors and the POVs sounded quite similar, but in terms of the ideas and characterisation this was a pleasure to read. The ending is perfectly ended for a sequel, and I can’t wait to see where the author takes this further.
A big thank you to the author for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
This review is also posted on my blog.
I was a bit hesitant the first time I saw this but eventually I decided to give it a shot – and I’m so glad I did. Nancy Straight has brought something wonderfully refreshing to the YA market. Angels, demons, vampires, werewolves? Faeries or mermaids? You can temporarily put them to the back of your mind while you read about centaurs instead.
Camille has never known her father, though not for lack of trying. Her entire life her mother refused to say much about him but on her deathbed, she finally gives Camille some information – a way to contact him. It’s not long before she finds herself at her father’s house, meeting an entire family she never knew existed, but being welcomed with open arms. But despite the seemingly pleasant, ordinary surface, Camille learns that not only is she a centaur with magic in her blood, she is expected to pay a blood debt for her mother’s mistakes. And that’s only the start of her problems.
I have to say, I haven’t read much of centaurs. I think the only time I’ve come across them is in the Partholon series by P.C. Cast (I miss you, ClanFintan! *sighs dreamily*). I was a little bit worried that the book wouldn’t manage to live up to the novelty of a different genre, but that concern did disappear after a while. I enjoyed learning about some of the customs the centaurs had and how they came to be. The author also included a couple of twists, taking a basic preconception of what a centaur is, claiming that it’s wrong and then twisting it again. Something I would have liked to see is more about centaurs generally – the book focuses primarily on their ideas regarding marriage and relationships, and I think it would have been really interesting to learn about other aspects of their lives.
Cami was a strong character, which really appealed to me. Let me tell you, if this girl thinks something is wrong, she absolutely refuses to go through with it. It takes a lot to break her. She knows how to stand up for herself, something I seriously appreciate in people and characters. She was also a little cautious when it came to her new family’s reception of her, although I think she was quite quick to shake off that caution. That reception, too, was something I found quite unbelievable. Secrets or not, I find it very hard to accept that an entire family could be that happy with finding out there’s another of them. A question was raised as to Cami’s father’s wife, and it was never really answered, so I hope to see that answer in the sequel.
I really liked Bianca and Drake; they were both full of integrity and Bianca especially surprised me in her total lack of ill-feeling towards Cami. When I first met her I was a little suspicious, but then they became best friends and reading from her perspective showed her to be a truly sweet character. The guy she was in love with also surprised me, although I think the delivery of that knowledge in the writing could have been much more effective. Drake was really sweet too. In fact, most of these characters – Biance, Drake, Gage, Cami’s new brothers – really had me warming to them.
Zandra, however. Zandra is another story. I won’t say exactly who she is, in case it’s a spoiler, but what I will say is that she. Was. Evil. I absolutely could not believe what. On earth. She was doing. She made me angry, she had me gasping in horror, she just...ugh. I just...I can’t. And then after all that, when Cami made a dismissive remark about her, all I could think was, ‘Are you crazy? Where have you just been?’ She was a little stupid there.
Overall, this was a really enjoyable book. I had some issues with the writing itself, there were a few grammatical errors and the POVs sounded quite similar, but in terms of the ideas and characterisation this was a pleasure to read. The ending is perfectly ended for a sequel, and I can’t wait to see where the author takes this further.
A big thank you to the author for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
This review is also posted on my blog.
August 15, 2012
This book was like no other I have read before. Centaurs? You’re like ‘Whaaaa?’ I know, you think I’d mis-spelled or you mis-read, but it truly was about Centaurs! Really really good looking ones :D
Camille is 17, her mother just passed away & she is all alone in the world. Only she’s not. The parting name her mother leaves directs her to meet her Father, and through him she discovers she has 5 half brothers (B names anyone :)) and a step mom. Things aren’t as they seem when she is told that she is not human, but a Centauride. Her new family just seems too good and rich to be true. I just loved them all. Especially the brothers. Camille was wonderful to read.
‘I was embarrassed to hear myself squeal like a little girl. This couldn’t be happening. I had a father and a stepmother who were two of the most amazing people I’d ever met, five brothers who were about as cool as Batman, and a brand new car. I wasn’t sure about the whole Centaur thing, but this was better than winning the lottery.’
Camille is looking for many answers throughout this book. Her new world does not treat her well, and the excitement of meeting all of her new family wears off after being kidnapped and held against her will. Unable to tap into her Centauride gifts, Camille manages to survive the days of her captivity, but only just. Without conversation, being guarded 24/7, and having a torture device literally around her neck, I wasn’t sure she would make it. Unfortunately for Camille it just didn’t get easier.
If Camille isn’t learning about her heritage and magical powers, she’s fighting her attraction to the very unavailable Drake, trying to be a best friend to Bianca, learning how she fits into her new life and being zapped red raw, she was sneaking around trying to beat her grandmother at her own game, wondering why her mother kept so many secrets and making out with said unavailable hottie.
This novel pulled me in and had me unable to guess what was around the corner. I had difficulty putting it down and didn’t want it to end.
I am very much looking forward to the next installment after her mother’s last piece of advice and the mystery of Daniel plus getting some more questions answered. One thing I’m sure of? It’s not going to be all smooth sailing for Camille. Well done Ms Straight...
Camille is 17, her mother just passed away & she is all alone in the world. Only she’s not. The parting name her mother leaves directs her to meet her Father, and through him she discovers she has 5 half brothers (B names anyone :)) and a step mom. Things aren’t as they seem when she is told that she is not human, but a Centauride. Her new family just seems too good and rich to be true. I just loved them all. Especially the brothers. Camille was wonderful to read.
‘I was embarrassed to hear myself squeal like a little girl. This couldn’t be happening. I had a father and a stepmother who were two of the most amazing people I’d ever met, five brothers who were about as cool as Batman, and a brand new car. I wasn’t sure about the whole Centaur thing, but this was better than winning the lottery.’
Camille is looking for many answers throughout this book. Her new world does not treat her well, and the excitement of meeting all of her new family wears off after being kidnapped and held against her will. Unable to tap into her Centauride gifts, Camille manages to survive the days of her captivity, but only just. Without conversation, being guarded 24/7, and having a torture device literally around her neck, I wasn’t sure she would make it. Unfortunately for Camille it just didn’t get easier.
If Camille isn’t learning about her heritage and magical powers, she’s fighting her attraction to the very unavailable Drake, trying to be a best friend to Bianca, learning how she fits into her new life and being zapped red raw, she was sneaking around trying to beat her grandmother at her own game, wondering why her mother kept so many secrets and making out with said unavailable hottie.
This novel pulled me in and had me unable to guess what was around the corner. I had difficulty putting it down and didn’t want it to end.
I am very much looking forward to the next installment after her mother’s last piece of advice and the mystery of Daniel plus getting some more questions answered. One thing I’m sure of? It’s not going to be all smooth sailing for Camille. Well done Ms Straight...
June 26, 2017
First I would like to thank Nancy Straight for giving me this book to review!
And Second! You need to know I absolutely loved this book!
You need to know that because What The Heck! The beginning of this book made me totally fall in love with all the characters. Camille is a very strong, determined female character. Her mom has just passed away, but not before finally telling her the name of her father she has never met. In finding her father, she discovers a whole new life and family she never knew existed. She has 5 brothers whose names all start with B(and I am not going to try and list), and has learned she is a Centaur and is supposed to have special powers. Also, every available guy is now trying to make her choose him as a mate. This was actually very funny. There is the wonderful, adorable, swoon worthy Drake that you will love instantly. And Gage and Bianca will also have you joining in their fight.
But some family is not so nice, and is out to get her, and make her choose the path they want her on. This includes her evil Grandma Zandra. She will give you the chills.This is where I am what the heck-ing! Nsncy takes your emotions and puts them through the wringer. My heart seriously went on a roller coaster of emotions. At one point it was so shocking and heartbreaking, I did not want to finish the book! It was unbelievable! But I did finish the book, and my heart was repaired. And it was amazing! The end told of a little of what was to come in the sequel, which doesn't sound like it will be a picnic, but I am super excited for.
This is definitely 5 stars for me and I recommend to everyone!!! The characters are all adults, but it stayed clean for teenagers.
And Second! You need to know I absolutely loved this book!
You need to know that because What The Heck! The beginning of this book made me totally fall in love with all the characters. Camille is a very strong, determined female character. Her mom has just passed away, but not before finally telling her the name of her father she has never met. In finding her father, she discovers a whole new life and family she never knew existed. She has 5 brothers whose names all start with B(and I am not going to try and list), and has learned she is a Centaur and is supposed to have special powers. Also, every available guy is now trying to make her choose him as a mate. This was actually very funny. There is the wonderful, adorable, swoon worthy Drake that you will love instantly. And Gage and Bianca will also have you joining in their fight.
But some family is not so nice, and is out to get her, and make her choose the path they want her on. This includes her evil Grandma Zandra. She will give you the chills.This is where I am what the heck-ing! Nsncy takes your emotions and puts them through the wringer. My heart seriously went on a roller coaster of emotions. At one point it was so shocking and heartbreaking, I did not want to finish the book! It was unbelievable! But I did finish the book, and my heart was repaired. And it was amazing! The end told of a little of what was to come in the sequel, which doesn't sound like it will be a picnic, but I am super excited for.
This is definitely 5 stars for me and I recommend to everyone!!! The characters are all adults, but it stayed clean for teenagers.
July 19, 2012
Blood Debt by Nancy Straight
Nancy Straight has written a fantastic and unique YA Paranormal Romance novel called Blood Debt, it’s the first in her new series (Touched #1). Nancy writing is easy to read, character descriptions are well written and the story held my attention right till the end. There are times when I felt so bad for Camille that your eye’s water up. My god this was a fantastic read.
We meet Camille who has just lost her mother to cancer, her moms last words to her is her father’s name and where he lives. Camille doesn’t want to be all alone and never knowing who her father was she decides she should call him. In a instant Camille’s life is about to change, travelling to meet him she finds out not only does she have 5 brothers and a step mother but she is not entirely human.
Camille learns that she is of Centaur blood, and how extremely powerful she will be coming from very strong bloodlines. But she also learning that her mother had ran away and has been in hiding for years. When Camille learns the Centaur women need to marry and keep their blood lines growing she struggles and her defenses go up as she is not going to be told what to do. I loved this part of the story Camille stands up for herself and tries to explain to her brothers that dating can be fun. Camille wants to learn about her ancestry and her none existing powers. Camille also meets the man whom her mother was betrothed too and that there is a blood debt that she may have to pay.
Struggling with all this new information and her new family she also meets Drake, who is already betrothed or shall I say engaged to be married. But instantly these two know that there is something between them. Feeling horrible for having a crush on her new friend’s fiancé, and still trying to figure out why she has no power and her blood debt how could this story get any better. Oh yes did I mention she gets kidnapped by her grandmother…….
As I cannot say anymore without using spoilers, THIS is a MUST read, Nancy Straight has written a fantastic first novel in this new series Touched. I am now going to have to figure out how to bribe Nancy to let me know when book 2 is going to be released and maybe I should you know read it to test out the flow and make sure there are no errors. (haha)
This new series is fantastic, and as I said earlier it is a must read. Thank you Nancy for posting your book in Making Connections YA Edition for our members to read and review, I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
Nancy Straight has written a fantastic and unique YA Paranormal Romance novel called Blood Debt, it’s the first in her new series (Touched #1). Nancy writing is easy to read, character descriptions are well written and the story held my attention right till the end. There are times when I felt so bad for Camille that your eye’s water up. My god this was a fantastic read.
We meet Camille who has just lost her mother to cancer, her moms last words to her is her father’s name and where he lives. Camille doesn’t want to be all alone and never knowing who her father was she decides she should call him. In a instant Camille’s life is about to change, travelling to meet him she finds out not only does she have 5 brothers and a step mother but she is not entirely human.
Camille learns that she is of Centaur blood, and how extremely powerful she will be coming from very strong bloodlines. But she also learning that her mother had ran away and has been in hiding for years. When Camille learns the Centaur women need to marry and keep their blood lines growing she struggles and her defenses go up as she is not going to be told what to do. I loved this part of the story Camille stands up for herself and tries to explain to her brothers that dating can be fun. Camille wants to learn about her ancestry and her none existing powers. Camille also meets the man whom her mother was betrothed too and that there is a blood debt that she may have to pay.
Struggling with all this new information and her new family she also meets Drake, who is already betrothed or shall I say engaged to be married. But instantly these two know that there is something between them. Feeling horrible for having a crush on her new friend’s fiancé, and still trying to figure out why she has no power and her blood debt how could this story get any better. Oh yes did I mention she gets kidnapped by her grandmother…….
As I cannot say anymore without using spoilers, THIS is a MUST read, Nancy Straight has written a fantastic first novel in this new series Touched. I am now going to have to figure out how to bribe Nancy to let me know when book 2 is going to be released and maybe I should you know read it to test out the flow and make sure there are no errors. (haha)
This new series is fantastic, and as I said earlier it is a must read. Thank you Nancy for posting your book in Making Connections YA Edition for our members to read and review, I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
November 14, 2012
OH GAWD! This book is utterly mind blowing!
It deserves 10 friggin' stars!
The story is absolutely original. I've never read a book about Centaurs before and I officially adore them now! lol.
The way the author pictures them, not only their looks but their habits is amazing.
UNIQUE!
That's the word for this book.
A great twist in mythology themes. I just LOVED IT!
The characters are perfectly developed.
Camille is great, wow! She may look innocent and fragile but she has some outbursts that made me laugh a lot.
She knows what she wants in her life.
Drake is a hottie but not only that. He is a gentleman at times and so true to himself, leaving his instincts drive him to get what he really wants.
Bianca is so feisty and happy, I like her a lot!
She is a true friend and also very witty to come up with a plan like that.
Gage, wow! a great actor lol, loved the way he deceived the others.
All of them complex characters, from Will, to Gretchen, to Daniel, to Kyle Richardson to all Camille siblings.
Together they make the perfect combo for a story full of new ideas and love story lol, an entangled net. So smartly played.
The chemistry between Drake and Cami is A-MA-ZING!
They are fighting for the title of best couple ever! XD
What can I say? I LOVED IT, I LOVED IT, I LOVED IT!!!!!!!!
Speechless!
Can't wait to read Centaur Legacy!
TOTALLY RECOMMEND IT!
It deserves 10 friggin' stars!
The story is absolutely original. I've never read a book about Centaurs before and I officially adore them now! lol.
The way the author pictures them, not only their looks but their habits is amazing.
UNIQUE!
That's the word for this book.
A great twist in mythology themes. I just LOVED IT!
The characters are perfectly developed.
Camille is great, wow! She may look innocent and fragile but she has some outbursts that made me laugh a lot.
She knows what she wants in her life.
Drake is a hottie but not only that. He is a gentleman at times and so true to himself, leaving his instincts drive him to get what he really wants.
Bianca is so feisty and happy, I like her a lot!
She is a true friend and also very witty to come up with a plan like that.
Gage, wow! a great actor lol, loved the way he deceived the others.
All of them complex characters, from Will, to Gretchen, to Daniel, to Kyle Richardson to all Camille siblings.
Together they make the perfect combo for a story full of new ideas and love story lol, an entangled net. So smartly played.
The chemistry between Drake and Cami is A-MA-ZING!
They are fighting for the title of best couple ever! XD
What can I say? I LOVED IT, I LOVED IT, I LOVED IT!!!!!!!!
Speechless!
Can't wait to read Centaur Legacy!
TOTALLY RECOMMEND IT!
August 9, 2012
DOUBLE WOW!!!
Nancy Straight has done it again. She has crafted a unique adventure from unlikely paranormal/Greek inspired creatures. This tale draws you in from the first page and I absolutely loved it. I read straight through forgetting everything else that needed to be done in my life, lol.
When Camille finds out she’s not human, she could have acted a number of ways. What I find interesting is that Nancy didn’t take the easy approach with this one. Her believable storyline could easily be the reader’s own story assuming non-human being existed. Along the way, when you think the story will go left, Nancy takes an abrupt turn keeping you on your toes. Thus, the story is never dull.
You will love the guys in Camille’s life from her father to the guy that holds her heart. Drake is my fav and I’m rooting for him all the way.
I can not wait for the next book. It can’t come soon enough.
Nancy Straight has done it again. She has crafted a unique adventure from unlikely paranormal/Greek inspired creatures. This tale draws you in from the first page and I absolutely loved it. I read straight through forgetting everything else that needed to be done in my life, lol.
When Camille finds out she’s not human, she could have acted a number of ways. What I find interesting is that Nancy didn’t take the easy approach with this one. Her believable storyline could easily be the reader’s own story assuming non-human being existed. Along the way, when you think the story will go left, Nancy takes an abrupt turn keeping you on your toes. Thus, the story is never dull.
You will love the guys in Camille’s life from her father to the guy that holds her heart. Drake is my fav and I’m rooting for him all the way.
I can not wait for the next book. It can’t come soon enough.
August 19, 2012
Camille thought that she and her mother where the last of her family…but her mother’s death bed confession reveals Camille’s father’s identity. Struggling to overcome the loneliness and loss of her mother, Camille contacts her father and is immediately embraced by a family she never knew. What she also never knew might be deadly for her. You see her mother left a blood debt behind and now the holder of that debt wants her to pay. Ultimately her mother ran for a reason and that reason just might destroy her.
Centaurs, WOW, what an awesome concept! What a spanking new idea! Camille faces a new culture, a new family with 5 brothers, an evil (did I mention very EVIL) grandmother and a blood debt. Great YA story, quick and easy read! I’m really looking forward to the continuation of this series. Definitely another series I will be following.
This copy of Blood Debt was given to me by Nancy Straight in exchange for an honest review.
Centaurs, WOW, what an awesome concept! What a spanking new idea! Camille faces a new culture, a new family with 5 brothers, an evil (did I mention very EVIL) grandmother and a blood debt. Great YA story, quick and easy read! I’m really looking forward to the continuation of this series. Definitely another series I will be following.
This copy of Blood Debt was given to me by Nancy Straight in exchange for an honest review.
August 12, 2012
The cover of this book is simply stunning. The colors flow and work so well together and are simply spelling binding. It made me want to dive into this book as soon as possible. We start this book out by meeting Camille who goes by Cami dealing with her mom's death. As her mom is dying she finally tells her who Cami's father is. Cami is debating if she should call him or not as he doesn't know she exists.Cami finally decides to give him a call and has no idea how much her world is about to change. The next thing Cami knows she is on a plane to meet her father.
Cami is greeted at the airport by her brother and learns that she has a total of 5 brothers she knew nothing about. I loved how well the boys accepted her and took her under their wing. They instantly bonded with her and welcomed her into the fold. The boys are all unique in their own way too as well as being a handful. Cami soon learns that she comes from a line of Centaurs. Yes I said Centaurs as in the ones you remember from Greek myths. I have to say that Straight always manages to come up with some amazing concepts. I was floored to see that this book was different from everything out there. Bravo to you Straight for the originality.
Cami has to learn all the amazing things that come with her being a Centaur and soon realizes that because of something her mom did she has to pay a blood debt for it. Cami has a hard time coping with all the ways of the Centaurs and how different they view most things in life. She also has to learn how to use her powers. She meets Drake at the wedding of one of her brothers and there is an instant connection. I loved that they got along so well together and the pull they had for one another was off the charts amazing. As Cami is adjusting to life a major twist takes place that changes everything. I won't go into what happens because I feel it would be a spoiler. You have to read this book to see what happens.
The author does an amazing job with this book. Her writing is phenomenal and just right. The concept for this book was really original and it was a must read for me as I love anything the author writes. She just has such a way with words that sucks you in. I loved that once again she told a story that was set in my hometown. I loved to read about the area and Cami's reaction to it as she was a California girl. I love Cami and Drake together and can't wait to see what happens next. Overall this was an amazing story with romance and major action throughout and I highly recommend it to others. What are you waiting for? Go get your copy now.
Cami is greeted at the airport by her brother and learns that she has a total of 5 brothers she knew nothing about. I loved how well the boys accepted her and took her under their wing. They instantly bonded with her and welcomed her into the fold. The boys are all unique in their own way too as well as being a handful. Cami soon learns that she comes from a line of Centaurs. Yes I said Centaurs as in the ones you remember from Greek myths. I have to say that Straight always manages to come up with some amazing concepts. I was floored to see that this book was different from everything out there. Bravo to you Straight for the originality.
Cami has to learn all the amazing things that come with her being a Centaur and soon realizes that because of something her mom did she has to pay a blood debt for it. Cami has a hard time coping with all the ways of the Centaurs and how different they view most things in life. She also has to learn how to use her powers. She meets Drake at the wedding of one of her brothers and there is an instant connection. I loved that they got along so well together and the pull they had for one another was off the charts amazing. As Cami is adjusting to life a major twist takes place that changes everything. I won't go into what happens because I feel it would be a spoiler. You have to read this book to see what happens.
The author does an amazing job with this book. Her writing is phenomenal and just right. The concept for this book was really original and it was a must read for me as I love anything the author writes. She just has such a way with words that sucks you in. I loved that once again she told a story that was set in my hometown. I loved to read about the area and Cami's reaction to it as she was a California girl. I love Cami and Drake together and can't wait to see what happens next. Overall this was an amazing story with romance and major action throughout and I highly recommend it to others. What are you waiting for? Go get your copy now.
August 9, 2012
I have to admit when I first read the blurb, I went, huh? Centaurs? I'm coming clean here. The word "herd" made me flinch everytime I read it, but I LOVED THIS BOOK so much it didn't matter.
I don't know why but every time I think of herd, things like elephants and sheep come to mind, not HAWT TO THE CORE MEN THAT MAKE ME SWOON, LOL.
On the latter, this book was filled with HAWT men. The amazing part was there wasn't a bad boy among them. Imagine a world full of beautiful men that all want you, that all hope to entice you into picking them. That's all the spoilers you're gonna get out of me. Oh, and if you HATE love triangles, good thing Blood Debt doesn't have any of that.
What it does have is MAGIC! This book rocks my socks in so many ways. I've never seen anything book other than Harry Potter with Centaurs and this is nothing like that Wizarding World.
The mythology is fresh and the storyline refreshing. I actually got so into this book I considered taking a day off work to finish it =0D
It was painful for me to get to 85% finished and then have to stop. I picked up where I left off on my way home (Can I just say, I love kindle's text to speech option?). Anyway, I had to get some groceries, so I was still listening to the computerated voice read the narrative whn, suddenly, I was like, what? That can't be right. No. NOOOOOO.
I think I may have actually stomped my foot with that last declaration that the world was sooo not right. I took a deep breath and said...there is no way Ms. Straight would do this to me...and kept listening. To my delight things worked out, and, like I said, I'm in love with this story!!!! My Happy Little Reading Cloud still hasn't let me down yet.
So if you are still reading this review, YOU HAVE TO BUY THIS BOOK!!! So worth it, and I'm salivating for the sequel.
I really enjoyed Ms. Straight's Meeting Destiny, so I'm going to have to settle for catching up on the Destiny Series until Blood Ties comes out, but I'm telling you it's hard to wait for this one.
Happy Reading Everyone!
~Christie
I don't know why but every time I think of herd, things like elephants and sheep come to mind, not HAWT TO THE CORE MEN THAT MAKE ME SWOON, LOL.
On the latter, this book was filled with HAWT men. The amazing part was there wasn't a bad boy among them. Imagine a world full of beautiful men that all want you, that all hope to entice you into picking them. That's all the spoilers you're gonna get out of me. Oh, and if you HATE love triangles, good thing Blood Debt doesn't have any of that.
What it does have is MAGIC! This book rocks my socks in so many ways. I've never seen anything book other than Harry Potter with Centaurs and this is nothing like that Wizarding World.
The mythology is fresh and the storyline refreshing. I actually got so into this book I considered taking a day off work to finish it =0D
It was painful for me to get to 85% finished and then have to stop. I picked up where I left off on my way home (Can I just say, I love kindle's text to speech option?). Anyway, I had to get some groceries, so I was still listening to the computerated voice read the narrative whn, suddenly, I was like, what? That can't be right. No. NOOOOOO.
I think I may have actually stomped my foot with that last declaration that the world was sooo not right. I took a deep breath and said...there is no way Ms. Straight would do this to me...and kept listening. To my delight things worked out, and, like I said, I'm in love with this story!!!! My Happy Little Reading Cloud still hasn't let me down yet.
So if you are still reading this review, YOU HAVE TO BUY THIS BOOK!!! So worth it, and I'm salivating for the sequel.
I really enjoyed Ms. Straight's Meeting Destiny, so I'm going to have to settle for catching up on the Destiny Series until Blood Ties comes out, but I'm telling you it's hard to wait for this one.
Happy Reading Everyone!
~Christie
September 7, 2012
This was my first book by Nancy Straight that I've read. I did enjoy it, haven't read anything about Centaurs. I did enjoy the twist and turns in this one.
Cami, a young 22 year old woman just lost her mother not to long ago. It was always the two of them, Cami always wanted to know who her father was. Her mother put it off till the day she died, once Cami learned who her father was she decided to give him a call. Once she makes contact with her father he wants her to fly out to his location in South Carolina.
Once she gets there she's surprised that she has five half brothers, a step mother who cares about her and is happy for her to be here and a father who wants her to be part of his family. At the beginning Cami wasn't sure of her new long lost family at first, thought they were all crazies but once her step mother feels in the missing details of her ancestory she doesn't believe it at first. I mean come on, who ever thought that Centaurs still exsisted, thought they were a myth right? Cami didn't believe she was one herself till some of her magic starts appearing and she remembers her mother doing some of it around her when she was a child. As soon as she believes she's a Centaur things start to become a bit easier.
The day at her brothers wedding she meets a young centaur, Drake. Drake is engaged to her BFF but they have a special connection to each other. Once Cami thought she got her life together with her new family she found out about her grandmother, Zandra Chiron, who kidnapped her and took her hostage at her estate to learn to become a disobiedent centaur and future wife to a man she doesn't love, Gale Richardson. At this point the book really picks up and you won't be able to put it down.
This book was free to me from the author for a free review. I really did enjoy this book and looking forward on book 2. So many unanswered questions left that needs to be answering. This is a must read for any YA fans.
Cami, a young 22 year old woman just lost her mother not to long ago. It was always the two of them, Cami always wanted to know who her father was. Her mother put it off till the day she died, once Cami learned who her father was she decided to give him a call. Once she makes contact with her father he wants her to fly out to his location in South Carolina.
Once she gets there she's surprised that she has five half brothers, a step mother who cares about her and is happy for her to be here and a father who wants her to be part of his family. At the beginning Cami wasn't sure of her new long lost family at first, thought they were all crazies but once her step mother feels in the missing details of her ancestory she doesn't believe it at first. I mean come on, who ever thought that Centaurs still exsisted, thought they were a myth right? Cami didn't believe she was one herself till some of her magic starts appearing and she remembers her mother doing some of it around her when she was a child. As soon as she believes she's a Centaur things start to become a bit easier.
The day at her brothers wedding she meets a young centaur, Drake. Drake is engaged to her BFF but they have a special connection to each other. Once Cami thought she got her life together with her new family she found out about her grandmother, Zandra Chiron, who kidnapped her and took her hostage at her estate to learn to become a disobiedent centaur and future wife to a man she doesn't love, Gale Richardson. At this point the book really picks up and you won't be able to put it down.
This book was free to me from the author for a free review. I really did enjoy this book and looking forward on book 2. So many unanswered questions left that needs to be answering. This is a must read for any YA fans.
September 6, 2012
Bloode Debt was amazing i love every second of it and i couldn't put it down. This Girl Camille finds out by her dying mother who her father is and she also finds out she is an Centaur. I love Camille she is strong and she don't like being told what to do and with her finding out everything about being an Centaur she doesn't like a lot of things about it. She also finds out more about her mom and her side of the family and how she owes a blood debt. There is alot of different characters which I love them all expect for her grandmother. Don't like her at all and once you read it you will find out why. Camille and Drake are my favorite and rooting for them. Also I do like her best friend Daniel I think there is more to him then meets the eye. That could be me but who knows. It is a very good read and i think you will enjoy it
August 1, 2012
Now usually I don't start a review off by stating the flaws of a book because that's just not nice, but since the author, Nancy Straight, forgot --intentionally I'm sure-- to warn us poor readers just how addictive her book would be, I feel it's up to me to do the warning. Granted, being an enormous fan of Ms. Straight since her Destiny series (Meeting Destiny (Destiny Series - Book 1) is FREE right now on Amazon!), I probably should have clued in faster. Nevertheless, there is your warning. Beware.
On to the review! Click Here!!
On to the review! Click Here!!
July 21, 2012
absolutely loved!just like with her other books your hooked from the beginning!
November 16, 2012
*A copy was provided for review purposes*
A gorgeous, entertaining, and fun novel which really did hook me from the first page. There were no regrets while reading this book because every sentence cast a spell which was hard to be broken until you reached the end. Nancy Straight created a unique and spell-binding story which was very unlike many of the fantasy books coming out today. The story-line was fantastically written from the perspective of a 22-year old woman, who came across as much younger with her personality. I really loved the plot to this story because I adore Greek myths and all things related to them. So the fact that Straight had woven in bits and pieces of these mythologies allured me. Centaurs? Well that's a first. It was a very refreshing side-track from the usual vampire and werewolf fiction which always seem to come out nowadays.
I loved the protagonist Camille! She was strong when required, snarky when needed, and witty when attacked. She had just lost her mother to cancer, and a day later she discovers where her long lost father lives. When she calls him, he asks her to forgive him for not knowing and asks her to come live with him. What she finds in South Carolina is rowdy yet fun siblings she never knew about, rich parents who want to give her everything she has ever wanted, and a discovery about where she truly comes from. Apparently, she isn't just a small-town girl living in a lonely world, but a super-human with unique god-given gifts. Guess it escaped her mom's mind to mention that. Now she has five older brothers, a bucket-load of money, and super powers. But none of them might save her in her ultimate fight against the destiny she was born to live out.
The romance in this book was the very emotional, forbidden, heart-breaking kind of romance. The one where the main characters try to deny its existence, but they CAN'T, because it's called chemistry. A perk of this romance being the hot and sweet Drake, who could put any girl into a coma with one line. He's swoon-worthy and intoxicating, and I could just read about him forever. Camille and Drake were definitely made for each other but they cannot accept their love because it's forbidden. Saying any more will spoil the book for you, so that is where I will have to end the describing of the romantic part of this book.
Overall, an awesomely mystical read which will grab the reader's attention within a moment of starting it and will not let go till the end. It was packed with enough chemistry to blow up the Yellowstone National Park, intriguing Greek Mythology, action packed, adrenaline rushing scenes, swoon-worthy guys *cough* male-models *cough*, and evil grandmothers. Honestly, who wouldn't want to read about a scary old grandmother who wants to make her granddaughter's life a living hell by using magic to ruin her life? Straight brought a new look to the world of mythology and centaurs by creating a definite one-of-a-kind novel.
A gorgeous, entertaining, and fun novel which really did hook me from the first page. There were no regrets while reading this book because every sentence cast a spell which was hard to be broken until you reached the end. Nancy Straight created a unique and spell-binding story which was very unlike many of the fantasy books coming out today. The story-line was fantastically written from the perspective of a 22-year old woman, who came across as much younger with her personality. I really loved the plot to this story because I adore Greek myths and all things related to them. So the fact that Straight had woven in bits and pieces of these mythologies allured me. Centaurs? Well that's a first. It was a very refreshing side-track from the usual vampire and werewolf fiction which always seem to come out nowadays.
I loved the protagonist Camille! She was strong when required, snarky when needed, and witty when attacked. She had just lost her mother to cancer, and a day later she discovers where her long lost father lives. When she calls him, he asks her to forgive him for not knowing and asks her to come live with him. What she finds in South Carolina is rowdy yet fun siblings she never knew about, rich parents who want to give her everything she has ever wanted, and a discovery about where she truly comes from. Apparently, she isn't just a small-town girl living in a lonely world, but a super-human with unique god-given gifts. Guess it escaped her mom's mind to mention that. Now she has five older brothers, a bucket-load of money, and super powers. But none of them might save her in her ultimate fight against the destiny she was born to live out.
The romance in this book was the very emotional, forbidden, heart-breaking kind of romance. The one where the main characters try to deny its existence, but they CAN'T, because it's called chemistry. A perk of this romance being the hot and sweet Drake, who could put any girl into a coma with one line. He's swoon-worthy and intoxicating, and I could just read about him forever. Camille and Drake were definitely made for each other but they cannot accept their love because it's forbidden. Saying any more will spoil the book for you, so that is where I will have to end the describing of the romantic part of this book.
Overall, an awesomely mystical read which will grab the reader's attention within a moment of starting it and will not let go till the end. It was packed with enough chemistry to blow up the Yellowstone National Park, intriguing Greek Mythology, action packed, adrenaline rushing scenes, swoon-worthy guys *cough* male-models *cough*, and evil grandmothers. Honestly, who wouldn't want to read about a scary old grandmother who wants to make her granddaughter's life a living hell by using magic to ruin her life? Straight brought a new look to the world of mythology and centaurs by creating a definite one-of-a-kind novel.
November 19, 2013
Blood Debt is my first centaur book. I have to say that I was expecting the horse creatures from Harry Potter and I was wondering how much I would enjoy a book about half horse creatures, but Nancy Straight's take on centaurs was so interesting! They weren't horses at all, they were just characterized as such because of how fast the men centaurs can run. I loved the magical world that was created in Blood Debt and I thought Nancy did an awesome job answering any questions we might have while still holding just enough cards in her pocket to make the story seem a bit mysterious.
The story follows Camille, or Cami as she preferred to be called. I really liked her. She was strong and independent but she had a tendency to be kind of rude through her stubbornness. I get that she doesn't like the ways and the customs of the centaurs but I thought she could have at least been a little more understanding. Her family was nothing but nice, warm and welcoming to her, and they never tried to force her into anything that she didn't want. I just thought she could have tried a little harder to be ok with things, or at least to not sound so rude in her refusals. But other than that I didn't have any problems with her. I liked her and I loved Drake. There was just something about him. He seems so pure and good. I had to stop reading for a while because of something that Camille's grandmother did to him in the book because I liked him so much.
I think that I would be an awesome centaur. I love how powerful women are in their society. They are really the ones that call a lot of the shots. They get to pick their husband out of tons of eligible guys and the guys are all tripping over themselves to get picked by a female centaur to continue on their family bloodline. There are way, way more men than their are women in centaur society. Plus the girls get all the cool gifts. I would be a little freaked out by all the mind reading and future seeing going on if I were Cami.
Blood Debt is such an awesome concept. Fans of YA paranormal romances need to check out this series. And the best part is that the second book is coming out pretty soon, I think. So not a ton of wait time inbetween books. Personally, I want the second book right now because I need to see what on earth is going on with Cami's friend Daniel from back home. I feel like there is something big there that we just don't have all the pieces to yet. Plus all of this Lost Herd business. I am dying to find out! Such a great book, it exceeded all of my expectations.
The story follows Camille, or Cami as she preferred to be called. I really liked her. She was strong and independent but she had a tendency to be kind of rude through her stubbornness. I get that she doesn't like the ways and the customs of the centaurs but I thought she could have at least been a little more understanding. Her family was nothing but nice, warm and welcoming to her, and they never tried to force her into anything that she didn't want. I just thought she could have tried a little harder to be ok with things, or at least to not sound so rude in her refusals. But other than that I didn't have any problems with her. I liked her and I loved Drake. There was just something about him. He seems so pure and good. I had to stop reading for a while because of something that Camille's grandmother did to him in the book because I liked him so much.
I think that I would be an awesome centaur. I love how powerful women are in their society. They are really the ones that call a lot of the shots. They get to pick their husband out of tons of eligible guys and the guys are all tripping over themselves to get picked by a female centaur to continue on their family bloodline. There are way, way more men than their are women in centaur society. Plus the girls get all the cool gifts. I would be a little freaked out by all the mind reading and future seeing going on if I were Cami.
Blood Debt is such an awesome concept. Fans of YA paranormal romances need to check out this series. And the best part is that the second book is coming out pretty soon, I think. So not a ton of wait time inbetween books. Personally, I want the second book right now because I need to see what on earth is going on with Cami's friend Daniel from back home. I feel like there is something big there that we just don't have all the pieces to yet. Plus all of this Lost Herd business. I am dying to find out! Such a great book, it exceeded all of my expectations.
August 9, 2012
I received this book in return for a honest review. The story is about Camille who loses her mother to cancer and in her mother’s dying breath is given her birth fathers name. Tempted by the desire to know her father, but skeptical because her mother kept the secret her entire life. Camille decided to think it over for a few weeks before calling her father. He immediately requests that she take the next flight out, excited Camille heads to Charleston South Caroline to meet her father. She's surprised to learn she has 5 half brothers and her step mother welcomes her with open arms. They all want her to stay with them for good but for Camille it's all a little stepford wife.
The secrets comes out that Camille comes from a long line of Centaurs dating back to the Greek gods. She learns that her mother ran away from the Centaurs, when her mother arranged a marriage between her and powerful herd. Since her mother skipped out on the wedding he is demanding a blood debt for her mother’s abandonment putting Camille in a position where she will have to accept the deal or face possible death. As if that isn't enough to worry about her possible upcoming wedding she has to deal with the fact that she's fallen in love with a man she can't have. She learns more about why her mother ran away from her mother, and more about her destiny.
I loved the concept of the Centaurs it's a great idea and I'm so happy I had the chance to read it. I love that it dates back to the Greek gods because I love mythology. I enjoyed watching Camille grow in as a character, dealing with learning about who she is, as well as her forbidding love. She's such a strong character, she's her own person and doesn't let anyone tell her what to do. The romance is sweet like a love story should be in my opinion, and I love a sweet love story. I read this story in a afternoon, I had a hard time putting it down and now that I'm done I just want the next book even more. It's a great first book and I can only imagine the rest of the series will be amazing as well.
The secrets comes out that Camille comes from a long line of Centaurs dating back to the Greek gods. She learns that her mother ran away from the Centaurs, when her mother arranged a marriage between her and powerful herd. Since her mother skipped out on the wedding he is demanding a blood debt for her mother’s abandonment putting Camille in a position where she will have to accept the deal or face possible death. As if that isn't enough to worry about her possible upcoming wedding she has to deal with the fact that she's fallen in love with a man she can't have. She learns more about why her mother ran away from her mother, and more about her destiny.
I loved the concept of the Centaurs it's a great idea and I'm so happy I had the chance to read it. I love that it dates back to the Greek gods because I love mythology. I enjoyed watching Camille grow in as a character, dealing with learning about who she is, as well as her forbidding love. She's such a strong character, she's her own person and doesn't let anyone tell her what to do. The romance is sweet like a love story should be in my opinion, and I love a sweet love story. I read this story in a afternoon, I had a hard time putting it down and now that I'm done I just want the next book even more. It's a great first book and I can only imagine the rest of the series will be amazing as well.
June 2, 2012
I was very lucky to be able to read an advanced copy of Blood Debt by Nancy Straight. The first book in the "Touched" series was AMAZING!!! She brings to life the character of Camille, who in the first couple of pages loses the most important person in her life and learns where the father is that she has always dreamed about. Camille then learns about a new family that she never knew existed and is thrown into a new lifestyle that she is struggling to understand as well as learn. She is thrown into this new lifestyle, makes new friends, falls in love with someone who is already taken, and is constantly trying to figure out how to survive in this crazy world.
In the first book, Nancy throws some major curve balls in the plot to keep you constantly guessing what is the around the next "corner" - so to speak. Nancy has the ability not only to bring the characters to life but to also bring the story to life. She left me wanting more of the story and anxiously awaiting the next book. This series is a must read for every paranormal romance fan.
In the first book, Nancy throws some major curve balls in the plot to keep you constantly guessing what is the around the next "corner" - so to speak. Nancy has the ability not only to bring the characters to life but to also bring the story to life. She left me wanting more of the story and anxiously awaiting the next book. This series is a must read for every paranormal romance fan.
August 6, 2012
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Wow! I don't even have words to describe how much I loved this book. I've read the first one of Nancy's Destiny series and while I liked it..it really didn't wow me. This one BLEW ME AWAY.
First of all...CENTAURS? How awesome is that? No vampires or werewolves in sight. It was very refreshing and Nancy did a wonderful job of creating the history of the race.
Camille is a wonderful character. I totally took to her and could really relate to her. She is so real as a character. Nancy also writes amazing secondary characters that you come to love just as much as her main characters.
The plot was great. At one point towards the end I thought I was going to... well you'll just have to read it for yourself. It's worth it.
I seriously have nothing critical to say about this book. The writing is great, the plot is amazing, the characters are wonderful. I can't recommend this one enough. It is unlike anything I have read before.
Wow! I don't even have words to describe how much I loved this book. I've read the first one of Nancy's Destiny series and while I liked it..it really didn't wow me. This one BLEW ME AWAY.
First of all...CENTAURS? How awesome is that? No vampires or werewolves in sight. It was very refreshing and Nancy did a wonderful job of creating the history of the race.
Camille is a wonderful character. I totally took to her and could really relate to her. She is so real as a character. Nancy also writes amazing secondary characters that you come to love just as much as her main characters.
The plot was great. At one point towards the end I thought I was going to... well you'll just have to read it for yourself. It's worth it.
I seriously have nothing critical to say about this book. The writing is great, the plot is amazing, the characters are wonderful. I can't recommend this one enough. It is unlike anything I have read before.
September 30, 2012
First off let me just say I love having friends that know me and know what I love to read. Blood debt was another amazing read, I could not put this down. Who knew that I would love to read about Centaurs. Nancy Straight has developed this amazing story that will pull you in to Camille's story and her journey to discover the world she was hidden from. She packs in mystery, adventure and a forbidden love that captures all of your imagination. You cannot walk away from this story not swooning over Drake and his commitment to Camille. Cami is a strong girl who loses her mother and is introduced to an estranged father and a new world that she never new existed. The journey for Cami is full of ups and downs and her discovery of who she truly is. There are time where I found myself laughing out loud and parts where I was crying. Blood Debt has to be one of my favorite books and I cannot wait until Blood Ties the second book in the series to come out.
September 2, 2012
I'll start out with, I LOVED IT!! This is one of those books you sort of love to hate because by the end of it, you realize the story is getting ramped up and you'll have to wait for the next book. There are lots of unanswered questions that I'm sure we'll read in future volumes; the problem is now the wait begins.
A story that involves Centaurs is a welcome change. It's easy to care for Camille and her storyline, but surprisingly I found I also wanted to find out a lot more about Will and Gretchen's story.
After the death of her mother, Camille's world is opened and turned upside down. Everything she knew is in question, and reality is not what it once was. This novel lays the necessary groundwork for the adventure to follow. I can hardly wait for the next installment.
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