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Return of the Effra #1
Vortex
Vortex is the first book in the YA, fantasy romance trilogy, Return of The Effra
On a night when prophecies stir, an outraged dragon vents his anger, Damian is ripped from everything he knows and Sam's nightmares become real...
Nineteen year old student Samantha White isn’t enjoying university life, she’s disillusioned with her course and having second thoughts about her future. It doesn’t help that she keeps having a scary, recurring nightmare and when she thinks things couldn’t get worse a creepy man follows her back to her room.
Damian is unique, he has silver eyes, horns and wings, he is also being visited by a ghost girl. She looks so sad and frightened he feels compelled to help her, but the night he reaches out to save her from a dragon’s fiery breath he gets ripped from his life, his world, from everything he knows.
Now it’s Damian who’s lost in an unfamiliar world that’s devoid of magic and full of strange monsters. His only connection with home is Sam who he recognises as the ghost girl. Sam has to put aside her fear and disbelief in Damian’s explanations about himself to try and help him find his way home.
But in a world without magic is this possible?
On a night when prophecies stir, an outraged dragon vents his anger, Damian is ripped from everything he knows and Sam's nightmares become real...
Nineteen year old student Samantha White isn’t enjoying university life, she’s disillusioned with her course and having second thoughts about her future. It doesn’t help that she keeps having a scary, recurring nightmare and when she thinks things couldn’t get worse a creepy man follows her back to her room.
Damian is unique, he has silver eyes, horns and wings, he is also being visited by a ghost girl. She looks so sad and frightened he feels compelled to help her, but the night he reaches out to save her from a dragon’s fiery breath he gets ripped from his life, his world, from everything he knows.
Now it’s Damian who’s lost in an unfamiliar world that’s devoid of magic and full of strange monsters. His only connection with home is Sam who he recognises as the ghost girl. Sam has to put aside her fear and disbelief in Damian’s explanations about himself to try and help him find his way home.
But in a world without magic is this possible?
414 pages, Paperback
First published June 20, 2012
2 people are currently reading
601 people want to read
About the author
Lindsey J. Parsons
2 books67 followers"My head has always been crammed full of horses, dragons, magic, and adventure, sword fights, castles, and impossible quests. Stories materialise when I least expect them to and take over my mind, desperate to get out. Finally a few years ago I decided to immortalize them in ink and so I write fantasy, because for me, fantasy is the ultimate escape."
Born in Stratford upon Avon, UK, Lindsey J Parsons grew up in nearby Solihull. She now lives in a crumbly old farm house in a small village in Warwickshire with her three children and an assortment of animal friends. She enjoys reading, writing, horseback riding, archery and looking after the numerous animals that live with her.
Lindsey started her writing career in 2009 and published her first book 'Vortex' three years later
Born in Stratford upon Avon, UK, Lindsey J Parsons grew up in nearby Solihull. She now lives in a crumbly old farm house in a small village in Warwickshire with her three children and an assortment of animal friends. She enjoys reading, writing, horseback riding, archery and looking after the numerous animals that live with her.
Lindsey started her writing career in 2009 and published her first book 'Vortex' three years later
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
February 6, 2013
Okay so Vortex caused me quite a few problems...why you ask? because it took over my life! i couldn't stop reading it and when i absolutely had to because you know i had to drive...or shower...or do homework that due the next day...you know the norm anyways SO FREAKING AMAZING I LOVED LOVED LOVED LOVED LOVED IT!!! loved it. I am going to mention one more time just in case you didn't get it. Read it and love it.
Okay so i should probably tell you why i loved it so much but really you don't need to know my opinion all you need to know is that you need to read this book. Oh stop? okay fine i will tell you why i loved it and why it almost but not really got a 4, it made me mad for a moment
So plot: OMGOSH THE PLOT GUSH GUSH GUSH! okay now that i have literally gushed i will tell you all about it! Sam is having nightmares, really strange nightmares, and in these dreams she meets a boy...wellll maybe not a boy as so much as a demon, a really hot demon....anyways...his name is Damian, and Damian has been seeing a ghost girl and wondering why she hasn't passed on to the next life. Damian's dragon friend was having a rough night one night and Sam totally freaked because in her dream there is this dragon shooting fire at her! So Damian tries to "save" her even though to him she looks like a ghost...well opps shouldn't have done that Damian well actually you should have. Because next thing you know Damian is in our world, where Sam is at. They start off rough but end up really liking each others company. If you were curious as i was when it came to when they manage to get Damian back and Sam stumbles along with him back to his world its about 30-ish 35% through the book. So they grow closer and war grows nearer to Damian and his adoptive family. I loved the plot i thought it was entertaining and fun to go with. i don't think there was a point that i was bored, there were a few times i was jumping up and down for joy because of many different reasons one of the being my favorite reason which is when the main character does something dumb, i love when that happens. Anyways i loved it i loved it i loved it! i honestly don't think you have to be a die hard fantasy fan to enjoy this book because for those who love romance there is that too, ugh just overall good!
So characters. hmmmm.....Damian....opps went off to dream world...still there give me a few.... okay
Sam aka Samantha: She lost her father- her only real parent, her mother died when she was born because i was wondering about that for the first couple chapters...anyways, he did remarry but Sam didn't connect or care for her stepmother. So Sam is off to college and she is doing it for her father, its what they had always planned. Unfortunately she isn't feeling it. She feels lost and upset. So when Damian staggers into her life suddenly things get a bit more interesting. I honestly didn't like Sam for the first quarter of the book...well maybe not that much but she was really mean to Damian and always trying to brush him off saying how annoying his questions were, and i was just like stop it Sam! Be nice! don't worry i totally love Sam she is an amazing person and she truly does care about Damian, and she is loyal, protective, and she will stand up for what she believes in.
Damian is an open mystery, and what do i mean by that? I mean he has secrets that are dragged out for a good portion of the book and honestly i liked that they weren't revealed right away because that is how it usually goes, and this gave you something to look forward to, and also it proves that Lindsey Parsons was paying attention to what she had wrote and went back to it instead of just forgetting about it and leaving it out. Anyways Damian is a demon with horns and wings, and man that's hot. He is so sweet, and super protective. i loved him i really did. He is such a good guy and i love most people accepted him for who he was now verses who he was.
Alex is Damian's best friend and isn't introduced until half way through the book but he gets one chapter in his POV which i thought was strange and threw me through a loop. I liked it but at the same time i i hate when authors change up POV shifts more than half way through - oh yeah the book is in Damian's and Sam's POVs - so anyways moving on to Alex's character. He is an adoptive brother of Damian's, a magi and overall awesome character. i also loved him he was charming, funny, and the light happy-go-lucky kind of guy. But when he needs to be he is serious and understanding.
There were a lot of other sort of smaller characters, not really small but i am going to just do a mass thing on them. They all had personalities of their own which yay makes me happy as a clam! i loved how the characters worked together and how they worked separately.
God there was so much to love about this book. But okay this is going to be a sort of spoiler but before i go into super detail, the ending as i always inform people was kinda cliffhanger-ish. well i just want the second one anyways but it left off where i wish it hadn't but its not like its in the middle of a battle or anything sooo now onto the spoiler which has to do with the ending so go away if you don't wanna see it all done!
So last piece of advice...please read it and tell all your friends about it because it is a beautifully written book that needs to be shared!
So if you enjoyed my review of this book, and you want to know how i feel about other books and find more indie awesome books? well check out my blog! - yup im that kid! well deal! anyways here is my link to my blog: http://theviolethourbookreviews.wordp... so you should check out what my friend and i have to say about other books that we love, liked, and hate. :) we appreciate you
Okay so i should probably tell you why i loved it so much but really you don't need to know my opinion all you need to know is that you need to read this book. Oh stop? okay fine i will tell you why i loved it and why it almost but not really got a 4, it made me mad for a moment
So plot: OMGOSH THE PLOT GUSH GUSH GUSH! okay now that i have literally gushed i will tell you all about it! Sam is having nightmares, really strange nightmares, and in these dreams she meets a boy...wellll maybe not a boy as so much as a demon, a really hot demon....anyways...his name is Damian, and Damian has been seeing a ghost girl and wondering why she hasn't passed on to the next life. Damian's dragon friend was having a rough night one night and Sam totally freaked because in her dream there is this dragon shooting fire at her! So Damian tries to "save" her even though to him she looks like a ghost...well opps shouldn't have done that Damian well actually you should have. Because next thing you know Damian is in our world, where Sam is at. They start off rough but end up really liking each others company. If you were curious as i was when it came to when they manage to get Damian back and Sam stumbles along with him back to his world its about 30-ish 35% through the book. So they grow closer and war grows nearer to Damian and his adoptive family. I loved the plot i thought it was entertaining and fun to go with. i don't think there was a point that i was bored, there were a few times i was jumping up and down for joy because of many different reasons one of the being my favorite reason which is when the main character does something dumb, i love when that happens. Anyways i loved it i loved it i loved it! i honestly don't think you have to be a die hard fantasy fan to enjoy this book because for those who love romance there is that too, ugh just overall good!
So characters. hmmmm.....Damian....opps went off to dream world...still there give me a few.... okay
Sam aka Samantha: She lost her father- her only real parent, her mother died when she was born because i was wondering about that for the first couple chapters...anyways, he did remarry but Sam didn't connect or care for her stepmother. So Sam is off to college and she is doing it for her father, its what they had always planned. Unfortunately she isn't feeling it. She feels lost and upset. So when Damian staggers into her life suddenly things get a bit more interesting. I honestly didn't like Sam for the first quarter of the book...well maybe not that much but she was really mean to Damian and always trying to brush him off saying how annoying his questions were, and i was just like stop it Sam! Be nice! don't worry i totally love Sam she is an amazing person and she truly does care about Damian, and she is loyal, protective, and she will stand up for what she believes in.
Damian is an open mystery, and what do i mean by that? I mean he has secrets that are dragged out for a good portion of the book and honestly i liked that they weren't revealed right away because that is how it usually goes, and this gave you something to look forward to, and also it proves that Lindsey Parsons was paying attention to what she had wrote and went back to it instead of just forgetting about it and leaving it out. Anyways Damian is a demon with horns and wings, and man that's hot. He is so sweet, and super protective. i loved him i really did. He is such a good guy and i love most people accepted him for who he was now verses who he was.
Alex is Damian's best friend and isn't introduced until half way through the book but he gets one chapter in his POV which i thought was strange and threw me through a loop. I liked it but at the same time i i hate when authors change up POV shifts more than half way through - oh yeah the book is in Damian's and Sam's POVs - so anyways moving on to Alex's character. He is an adoptive brother of Damian's, a magi and overall awesome character. i also loved him he was charming, funny, and the light happy-go-lucky kind of guy. But when he needs to be he is serious and understanding.
There were a lot of other sort of smaller characters, not really small but i am going to just do a mass thing on them. They all had personalities of their own which yay makes me happy as a clam! i loved how the characters worked together and how they worked separately.
God there was so much to love about this book. But okay this is going to be a sort of spoiler but before i go into super detail, the ending as i always inform people was kinda cliffhanger-ish. well i just want the second one anyways but it left off where i wish it hadn't but its not like its in the middle of a battle or anything sooo now onto the spoiler which has to do with the ending so go away if you don't wanna see it all done!
So last piece of advice...please read it and tell all your friends about it because it is a beautifully written book that needs to be shared!
So if you enjoyed my review of this book, and you want to know how i feel about other books and find more indie awesome books? well check out my blog! - yup im that kid! well deal! anyways here is my link to my blog: http://theviolethourbookreviews.wordp... so you should check out what my friend and i have to say about other books that we love, liked, and hate. :) we appreciate you
July 30, 2012
First of all let me start by saying I love love LOVED this book, seriously it is made of the most awesome sauce in the world. The story is written in such a way that I felt as if I was watching a movie. I could picture every little detail, every facial expression and almost hear every sound. It was fast paced from the beginning and I was immediately thrown into the story, there was never a dull moment. Parson's writing is incredible.
My favourite character? Hands down Damien!! At first I wasn't sure what to make of him but after his first meeting with Sam, I fell in love. He is completely clueless about everything going on around him and this lightens the whole tone of the book, he is like a child when it comes to everything in the human world and it's impossible not to love him, especially the moment he thinks Sam doesn't like him, I was so sad for him that all I wanted to do was give him a cuddle. He also has a dark side that we only see glimpses of but it's enough to make me believe we will be seeing more of his 'true' nature, I think he is the perfect example of human nature at it's worst and it's best which is ironic considering he's not human.
And Sam? She is a REAL character and I say this because her reactions when first meeting Damien are what I would expect from myself if I was in her position. She thinks he's crazy and dismisses everything he tells her and it's a long time before she even begins to consider that he might be telling the truth, and even then she doesn't fully accept anything until she has seen it for herself. She is a typical teenage girl that has no clue what she wants to do with her life, she also isn't afraid to be mean to the people around her, typically speaking her mind wherever necessary, no matter the situation. I love that she hasn't been described as having a boring, mundane life which is typical of YA books but instead her life really is normal, sometimes boring but real and I appreciate that because I can relate.
I also loved how Parsons wrote from both of their perspectives as it gave me, as a reader such a good insight into how they are both feeling in every chapter. I was filled with tension throughout the whole book because I desperately wanted Sam and Damien to realise how they felt about each other and Parsons didn't disappoint. This story really puts to rest the old saying, never judge a book by it's cover.
I recommend this book to anyone that wants a good love story that is touched with humour, tinged with sadness and full of hope. Big thumbs up!!
My favourite character? Hands down Damien!! At first I wasn't sure what to make of him but after his first meeting with Sam, I fell in love. He is completely clueless about everything going on around him and this lightens the whole tone of the book, he is like a child when it comes to everything in the human world and it's impossible not to love him, especially the moment he thinks Sam doesn't like him, I was so sad for him that all I wanted to do was give him a cuddle. He also has a dark side that we only see glimpses of but it's enough to make me believe we will be seeing more of his 'true' nature, I think he is the perfect example of human nature at it's worst and it's best which is ironic considering he's not human.
And Sam? She is a REAL character and I say this because her reactions when first meeting Damien are what I would expect from myself if I was in her position. She thinks he's crazy and dismisses everything he tells her and it's a long time before she even begins to consider that he might be telling the truth, and even then she doesn't fully accept anything until she has seen it for herself. She is a typical teenage girl that has no clue what she wants to do with her life, she also isn't afraid to be mean to the people around her, typically speaking her mind wherever necessary, no matter the situation. I love that she hasn't been described as having a boring, mundane life which is typical of YA books but instead her life really is normal, sometimes boring but real and I appreciate that because I can relate.
I also loved how Parsons wrote from both of their perspectives as it gave me, as a reader such a good insight into how they are both feeling in every chapter. I was filled with tension throughout the whole book because I desperately wanted Sam and Damien to realise how they felt about each other and Parsons didn't disappoint. This story really puts to rest the old saying, never judge a book by it's cover.
I recommend this book to anyone that wants a good love story that is touched with humour, tinged with sadness and full of hope. Big thumbs up!!
June 29, 2012
Lindsey Parsons does an excellent job weaving a story that draws you in.
In her book we meet Sam, a college student with a past that shades her future, and Damian, whose very existence is a contradiction to nature. Through a series of unpredicted events, these two collide in an adventure that is not only fun, but creative and logical. Relationships build and are tested. The misconceptions and prejudice of both our world and Damian's are explored. It is within these pages we discover whether true love can see beyond what is apparent, or are we doomed to always miss the connection.
A very enjoyable read.
Merged review:
Lindsey Parsons does an excellent job weaving a story that draws you in.
In her book we meet Sam, a college student with a past that shades her future, and Damian, whose very existence is a contradiction to nature. Through a series of unpredicted events, these two collide in an adventure that is not only fun, but creative and logical. Relationships build and are tested. The misconceptions and prejudice of both our world and Damian's are explored. It is within these pages we discover whether true love can see beyond what is apparent, or are we doomed to always miss the connection.
A very enjoyable read.
In her book we meet Sam, a college student with a past that shades her future, and Damian, whose very existence is a contradiction to nature. Through a series of unpredicted events, these two collide in an adventure that is not only fun, but creative and logical. Relationships build and are tested. The misconceptions and prejudice of both our world and Damian's are explored. It is within these pages we discover whether true love can see beyond what is apparent, or are we doomed to always miss the connection.
A very enjoyable read.
Merged review:
Lindsey Parsons does an excellent job weaving a story that draws you in.
In her book we meet Sam, a college student with a past that shades her future, and Damian, whose very existence is a contradiction to nature. Through a series of unpredicted events, these two collide in an adventure that is not only fun, but creative and logical. Relationships build and are tested. The misconceptions and prejudice of both our world and Damian's are explored. It is within these pages we discover whether true love can see beyond what is apparent, or are we doomed to always miss the connection.
A very enjoyable read.
August 9, 2012
A little slow to start, but soon picked up pace. Sam White is an ordinary girl at university when she meets Damian, a demon from another world. The first part of the story follows them as they piece together how to return Damian to his world. The story then follows what happens when they travel to his world.
I loved the two main characters. Sam is independent and knows her own mind although she is a bit impulsive. Not that that is a bad thing! Damian is a demon with a conscience and tries to protect Sam. I hope to see their characters develop further in the next instalment and I would love to know more about Damian's background.
I enjoyed the descriptions of Damian's world and it really sucked me in. The first part in Sam's world, I found to be slower which is why it took me a while to get into the story. I liked how the story was split into two distinct parts, there was no confusion as to which world they were in.
Overall I really enjoyed this book and look forward to number 2.
I loved the two main characters. Sam is independent and knows her own mind although she is a bit impulsive. Not that that is a bad thing! Damian is a demon with a conscience and tries to protect Sam. I hope to see their characters develop further in the next instalment and I would love to know more about Damian's background.
I enjoyed the descriptions of Damian's world and it really sucked me in. The first part in Sam's world, I found to be slower which is why it took me a while to get into the story. I liked how the story was split into two distinct parts, there was no confusion as to which world they were in.
Overall I really enjoyed this book and look forward to number 2.
June 14, 2014
I really liked this book, It is very good.
The book talks about Sam who is normal college girl and Damian who is a demon from another world.
The first part of the story is about how Damian tries to get back to his world, the story then travels when Damian and Sam travel to the other world.
Damian is my favorite character. ♥ I would really love to know more about him and his background.
I also liked Sam, she is a typical teenage girl who is feeling lost after her father's death. But she managed to try to get her life back together. Her life is normal, sometimes boring but real which I can relate to.
Also I really love the writing style.
I could picture every detail.. It was like you were there with them.
There was never a boring moment.
I also loved how Parsons wrote from both of their perspectives.
That way you can understand how they both felt.
Lindsey Parsons made a great job in this book.
I'm really looking forward for part 2.
A very enjoyable read.
The book talks about Sam who is normal college girl and Damian who is a demon from another world.
The first part of the story is about how Damian tries to get back to his world, the story then travels when Damian and Sam travel to the other world.
Damian is my favorite character. ♥ I would really love to know more about him and his background.
I also liked Sam, she is a typical teenage girl who is feeling lost after her father's death. But she managed to try to get her life back together. Her life is normal, sometimes boring but real which I can relate to.
Also I really love the writing style.
I could picture every detail.. It was like you were there with them.
There was never a boring moment.
I also loved how Parsons wrote from both of their perspectives.
That way you can understand how they both felt.
Lindsey Parsons made a great job in this book.
I'm really looking forward for part 2.
A very enjoyable read.
March 24, 2013
I'm utterly useless at writing book reviews, except to say what I like and what I don't and to recommend a book if it's good. This isn't a good book, it's an utterly BRILLIANT book! A great read, engaging, exciting, original and a real page turner! Lindsey weaves her magic throughout to create a mesmeric story which will keep you utterly captivated and wanting more.
Beg, borrow, buy or steal this book, just READ IT! Highly recommended!!
Beg, borrow, buy or steal this book, just READ IT! Highly recommended!!
January 15, 2013
I picked this one up free on Amazon and all I can say is WOW. I fell in love with Damian and Sam and can't wait to read the next part of their series in book two! Lindsey J. Parsons builds a fantasy world full of centuars and dragons, unicorns and elves that leave the reader wanting to be able to travel through their own vortex to visit. This was a gem and totally worth the time it took to read!
August 7, 2012
Brilliant - I was totally hooked and couldn't put it down. A must read!!
June 18, 2013
Vortex is set in two separate worlds; one in modern day England and the other in a magical world filled with mythical beings such as Demons, Magi, Dragons, Goblins, Elves and more...
Samantha White AKA Sam is a ordinary college student who is having nightmares. Of which she finds herself running into the same person on each occasion. When Sam is confronted by Damian in the real world everything changes.
Damian is a man with bat like wings three inch horns and piercing silver eyes *swoons*. When he finds himself pulled into another world unlike anything he's ever seen he seeks out Sam, the ghost girl. Together they embark on a journey to try get him home, unknown to them of the dangers lying ahead.
Parsons has done a great job, her style of writing is amazing, there wasn't a single dull moment in the whole book. It's full of magic, romance and even has an awesome battle thrown in, what more could you ask for?
What I liked about Vortex is the way it was written. I felt like I got to know the characters in more depth because i got to see from both Sam's and Damian's point of view. At first I wasn't impressed by Sam because of her reaction to Damian, it's not his fault he asks lots of stupid questions because everything is new, cut him some slack, please? This soon changed though, as it progressed Sam found herself warming up to him and I began to like her.
Now Damian on the other hand is my favourite character of the book! I just LOVED him from the start. What a fantabulous character he is!!! His silly questions amused me to no end, I found myself chuckling away to myself on numerous occasions (earning funny looks from people around me might I add), so worth it though!!
"Their food turned up then and they thanked the waitress. Damian sat staring at his plate for a few seconds.
Then, pointing at the egg, he asked, "What is this?"
"You asked for scrambled egg, that's it."
"Oh, that is interesting. I wondered why the eggs had different names; I assumed it referred to the type of egg. For what reason do they do that to it?"
What I didn't like was the ending! How can it finish there? What a cliff-hanger!!! I wasn't impressed at all! I was really enjoying it and couldn't believe THAT happened! Grrrrr.... Now I've got to wait for Wicked Game to find out where it leads!
There's so much more I want to add but will leave it there as I don't want to spoil it!!!
Overall I absolutely loved this book!!!! Would highly recommend to fantasy and romance lovers! A MUST READ!
P.S. I think I've found myself a new book boyfriend; even if he is a demon!!! ;)
Samantha White AKA Sam is a ordinary college student who is having nightmares. Of which she finds herself running into the same person on each occasion. When Sam is confronted by Damian in the real world everything changes.
Damian is a man with bat like wings three inch horns and piercing silver eyes *swoons*. When he finds himself pulled into another world unlike anything he's ever seen he seeks out Sam, the ghost girl. Together they embark on a journey to try get him home, unknown to them of the dangers lying ahead.
Parsons has done a great job, her style of writing is amazing, there wasn't a single dull moment in the whole book. It's full of magic, romance and even has an awesome battle thrown in, what more could you ask for?
What I liked about Vortex is the way it was written. I felt like I got to know the characters in more depth because i got to see from both Sam's and Damian's point of view. At first I wasn't impressed by Sam because of her reaction to Damian, it's not his fault he asks lots of stupid questions because everything is new, cut him some slack, please? This soon changed though, as it progressed Sam found herself warming up to him and I began to like her.
Now Damian on the other hand is my favourite character of the book! I just LOVED him from the start. What a fantabulous character he is!!! His silly questions amused me to no end, I found myself chuckling away to myself on numerous occasions (earning funny looks from people around me might I add), so worth it though!!
"Their food turned up then and they thanked the waitress. Damian sat staring at his plate for a few seconds.
Then, pointing at the egg, he asked, "What is this?"
"You asked for scrambled egg, that's it."
"Oh, that is interesting. I wondered why the eggs had different names; I assumed it referred to the type of egg. For what reason do they do that to it?"
What I didn't like was the ending! How can it finish there? What a cliff-hanger!!! I wasn't impressed at all! I was really enjoying it and couldn't believe THAT happened! Grrrrr.... Now I've got to wait for Wicked Game to find out where it leads!
There's so much more I want to add but will leave it there as I don't want to spoil it!!!
Overall I absolutely loved this book!!!! Would highly recommend to fantasy and romance lovers! A MUST READ!
P.S. I think I've found myself a new book boyfriend; even if he is a demon!!! ;)
November 29, 2012
I really enjoyed this book. It’s got a lot to recommend it, particularly an unusual story and great characters.
I love stories that cross from our reality to another. It’s a mark of a contemporary fantasy rather than a traditional one and, like this one, such books often include aspects of both urban and traditional fantasy. In our world, science takes the place of magic. In Damian’s world, elves, gnomes and dragons exist. What happens when someone takes guns from our world into a world that knows only arrows and swords? That’s where this story takes us. How would the people defend themselves?
While Damian is fighting to get home and warn his friends and family, Sam and he are struggling with their feelings for each other. It’s all new to Damian, who isn’t even supposed to be capable of love, and Sam often finds his reactions more than a little confusing.
The plot is well-structured, the pacing excellent, the characters well-drawn and interesting, particularly Damian and Apple. There’s no overwriting, and point of view changes from Sam to Damian are clear. Damian’s world is well thought out and the copy appears clean.
The end ties everything up, then sets us up for a sequel.
The only problem, and the reason I haven't given it 4 stars, is a lack in the quality of the prose. Though most of it was fine and some of it very good, (I suspect this is why the poorer parts stood out so much) there is a tendency to tell rather than show - specifically, an over use of variations of the verb ‘to be’ and some weak descriptions. There is also a spelling problem, ‘alright’ should be ‘all right’. These issues are probably not relevant to the general reader, but they wouldn’t pass an editor in a traditional publishing house so, in its present state, I can’t give the book the Awesome Indies Approval. http://awesomeindies.net
Even so, it's a great read. I highly recommend it and I look forward to the sequels.
I love stories that cross from our reality to another. It’s a mark of a contemporary fantasy rather than a traditional one and, like this one, such books often include aspects of both urban and traditional fantasy. In our world, science takes the place of magic. In Damian’s world, elves, gnomes and dragons exist. What happens when someone takes guns from our world into a world that knows only arrows and swords? That’s where this story takes us. How would the people defend themselves?
While Damian is fighting to get home and warn his friends and family, Sam and he are struggling with their feelings for each other. It’s all new to Damian, who isn’t even supposed to be capable of love, and Sam often finds his reactions more than a little confusing.
The plot is well-structured, the pacing excellent, the characters well-drawn and interesting, particularly Damian and Apple. There’s no overwriting, and point of view changes from Sam to Damian are clear. Damian’s world is well thought out and the copy appears clean.
The end ties everything up, then sets us up for a sequel.
The only problem, and the reason I haven't given it 4 stars, is a lack in the quality of the prose. Though most of it was fine and some of it very good, (I suspect this is why the poorer parts stood out so much) there is a tendency to tell rather than show - specifically, an over use of variations of the verb ‘to be’ and some weak descriptions. There is also a spelling problem, ‘alright’ should be ‘all right’. These issues are probably not relevant to the general reader, but they wouldn’t pass an editor in a traditional publishing house so, in its present state, I can’t give the book the Awesome Indies Approval. http://awesomeindies.net
Even so, it's a great read. I highly recommend it and I look forward to the sequels.
June 13, 2013
I started off this book looking forward to reading about a man with horns ripped from his world and got so much more.
There are elves, goblins, dwarves, sorcerers, centaurs everything that you need really in a true fantasy book which this really is. To make it even better there is a battle thrown in for good measure and then the wonderful romance between Sam and Damian.
The book starts with Sam having what she believes are nightmares until she meets Damian. She is not sure if he is crazy but struggles with his explanation as to how he came to be in her world. His views of the roaring monsters of our world and his fasination of all technology are well written as is the whole book. The interactions between Sam and Damian are heart warming and you really get to know the characters well which can be lacking in some books.
The story moves at a brisk pace and there is never a dull moment. The end of the book had me screaming 'nooooooo'!!! I am now desperate to see how the story will continue, what will happen to Sam and Damians relationship and if Marcus and Morgana will manage to succeed in their plans.
A truly fantastic book that wouldn't be out of place next to authors such as JK Rowling (seriously) and is well worth the price and more.
Read this book you will be far from disapointed. I will definately be reading the rest of this trilogy.
Please note I was given a copy of this book in retun for an honest review.
There are elves, goblins, dwarves, sorcerers, centaurs everything that you need really in a true fantasy book which this really is. To make it even better there is a battle thrown in for good measure and then the wonderful romance between Sam and Damian.
The book starts with Sam having what she believes are nightmares until she meets Damian. She is not sure if he is crazy but struggles with his explanation as to how he came to be in her world. His views of the roaring monsters of our world and his fasination of all technology are well written as is the whole book. The interactions between Sam and Damian are heart warming and you really get to know the characters well which can be lacking in some books.
The story moves at a brisk pace and there is never a dull moment. The end of the book had me screaming 'nooooooo'!!! I am now desperate to see how the story will continue, what will happen to Sam and Damians relationship and if Marcus and Morgana will manage to succeed in their plans.
A truly fantastic book that wouldn't be out of place next to authors such as JK Rowling (seriously) and is well worth the price and more.
Read this book you will be far from disapointed. I will definately be reading the rest of this trilogy.
Please note I was given a copy of this book in retun for an honest review.
March 12, 2013
** I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review **
Vortex is a modern Sci-Fi Wizard of Oz
When you read Sci-Fi or Fantasy the expectation is to have your mind soar with adventure and new experiences, freeing your imagination to run wild and “Vortex (Return of the Effra)” does just that.
Much like Dorothy who was swept up in a tornado in the “Wizard of Oz” and met the lion, scarecrow and tin man, Sam transports to another world through a vortex. During her journey she is introduced to an entire ensemble of characters that are not only captivating but also vibrant.
This chronicle thrusts you into a world of romance, dragons, elves, goblins, unicorns, centaurs, demons and some very powerful magic. While this story is intense in spots it is also intimate due to the duel point of view narratives from Sam and Damian.
Skillfully written “Vortex” moves along at a nice pace never leaving a dull moment. Refreshingly all new concepts were explained thoroughly which helped to visualize the world of Penrithian. While there is a minor cliff hanger it’s done at an appropriate spot that will leave you wanting to know more and anxiously awaiting the next installment.
Vortex is a modern Sci-Fi Wizard of Oz
When you read Sci-Fi or Fantasy the expectation is to have your mind soar with adventure and new experiences, freeing your imagination to run wild and “Vortex (Return of the Effra)” does just that.
Much like Dorothy who was swept up in a tornado in the “Wizard of Oz” and met the lion, scarecrow and tin man, Sam transports to another world through a vortex. During her journey she is introduced to an entire ensemble of characters that are not only captivating but also vibrant.
This chronicle thrusts you into a world of romance, dragons, elves, goblins, unicorns, centaurs, demons and some very powerful magic. While this story is intense in spots it is also intimate due to the duel point of view narratives from Sam and Damian.
Skillfully written “Vortex” moves along at a nice pace never leaving a dull moment. Refreshingly all new concepts were explained thoroughly which helped to visualize the world of Penrithian. While there is a minor cliff hanger it’s done at an appropriate spot that will leave you wanting to know more and anxiously awaiting the next installment.
October 1, 2013
This book surprised me. I try to read outside of my comfort zone, and anything I considered Romance is definitely not my cup of tea. But, the premise seemed promising, so I entered Lindsey Parson's giveaway and won. I'm very glad I did.
Vortex blends fantasy and romance in a very pleasant way. This is definitely NOT Twilight. The characters have depth and are fully realized. No obligatory love triangle haunts the pages. The magic comes off as believable, not the by-the-numbers Dungeons & Dragons way so many authors utilize today.
I don't want to give too much away, for the plot drew me in quickly. If I do have a complaint, it is the is he/isn't he, is she/isn't she relationship of the two main characters. The "overheard conversation" and "misunderstood feelings" tropes are a bit overused.
Otherwise, I loved this book and look forward to reading the sequel.
(On a side note, I promised to have this review posted long ago. I just recently realized it never actually posted. I can only assume I was very tired and shut off my computer before clicking Save. So, my apologies to the author for the long wait.)
Vortex blends fantasy and romance in a very pleasant way. This is definitely NOT Twilight. The characters have depth and are fully realized. No obligatory love triangle haunts the pages. The magic comes off as believable, not the by-the-numbers Dungeons & Dragons way so many authors utilize today.
I don't want to give too much away, for the plot drew me in quickly. If I do have a complaint, it is the is he/isn't he, is she/isn't she relationship of the two main characters. The "overheard conversation" and "misunderstood feelings" tropes are a bit overused.
Otherwise, I loved this book and look forward to reading the sequel.
(On a side note, I promised to have this review posted long ago. I just recently realized it never actually posted. I can only assume I was very tired and shut off my computer before clicking Save. So, my apologies to the author for the long wait.)
September 21, 2013
I got this book from the autor, free of cost, in exchange of an honest review from my side.
Firstly I would like to thank Lindsey J. Parsons, author of Vortex for giving me this opportunity of reading and reviewing this book.
I had a great time in reading this awesome book and would like to recommend it to ya all and I'm sure that you guys will love it as much as I did.
I loved the new and totally refreshing plot and story line where we have a hero who is a demon and not a stereotypical vampire or werewolf.
The quest that our heero and heroine take up is really good to experience and the essence of pure romance is present in this story.
I loved the writing style of the author and would like to appreciate her talent through which she played with such beautiful words and gave life to all the characters and to the plot as well making it totally believable.
The suspense was eerie and the touch of action made it that much more intriguing and exciting.
All in all a great and must read for ya all.
Firstly I would like to thank Lindsey J. Parsons, author of Vortex for giving me this opportunity of reading and reviewing this book.
I had a great time in reading this awesome book and would like to recommend it to ya all and I'm sure that you guys will love it as much as I did.
I loved the new and totally refreshing plot and story line where we have a hero who is a demon and not a stereotypical vampire or werewolf.
The quest that our heero and heroine take up is really good to experience and the essence of pure romance is present in this story.
I loved the writing style of the author and would like to appreciate her talent through which she played with such beautiful words and gave life to all the characters and to the plot as well making it totally believable.
The suspense was eerie and the touch of action made it that much more intriguing and exciting.
All in all a great and must read for ya all.
September 19, 2013
I received a copy of this to read to review, and I HAVE to say that I totally enjoyed this book! It captured my attention from start to finish!
I so was enamored by Damian and Samantha and all of the key players in this story. I normally don't like books that take me out of my world and into other worlds, but this one totally changed my perspective.
I loved the author's writing style. She didn't treat me the reader, as a dummy where things had to be repeated over and over again. One thing that totally turns me off of a book is when the question "what do you mean?" is asked over, and over and over again. This story sure did call for it, and the fact that it didn't do that, totally had me looking forward to rushing home from work, and immediately pick up from where I left off (much to hubby's chagrine)!
I am totally looking forward to the next one in the series, and hope to get picked to read that one to review as well!!!!
I so was enamored by Damian and Samantha and all of the key players in this story. I normally don't like books that take me out of my world and into other worlds, but this one totally changed my perspective.
I loved the author's writing style. She didn't treat me the reader, as a dummy where things had to be repeated over and over again. One thing that totally turns me off of a book is when the question "what do you mean?" is asked over, and over and over again. This story sure did call for it, and the fact that it didn't do that, totally had me looking forward to rushing home from work, and immediately pick up from where I left off (much to hubby's chagrine)!
I am totally looking forward to the next one in the series, and hope to get picked to read that one to review as well!!!!
August 14, 2014
Lindsey Parsons writes a fantasy story that is both riveting and believable.
Read full review in the 2012 September issue of InD’tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2012 September issue of InD’tale Magazine.
September 11, 2015
Romance, some magic love, and a pinch of sadness, it's my kind of book, and it's exactly what I'm looking for. Love the paranormal dangers
June 7, 2013
This book was well-written and had an interesting story. I loved the characterizations. The plot was nicely set-up and the follow through with it was great!
February 7, 2017
So...I'm going to preface this review with a confession: I have absolutely zero recollection of having bought this book.
Literally zero. Like, nothing about it seemed familiar. Sometimes I'll forget a book title, but the blurb will remind me, but not this time.
I mean, having read the blurb, I can kinda see why it might have appealed to past me, but it's certainly not something I would buy any more. The dangers of have too many kindle purchases and not enough time! Chances are it's a good 3/4 years since I actually acquired this book.
Anyway, all this preamble might give you some idea why my rating is rather low. It's nothing against the book per se, just that it isn't the kind of thing for me. And it's all become a bit cliched in the intervening years. It's all a little bit predictable and the story isn't mega amazing or anything, but I'll admit that it was an easy read. The pace was quite good and I was never bored or struggling, but equally I was never all that gripped. The characters weren't quite cookie-cutter, just more a little flat. We spend 400-odd pages with Sam and I couldn't really tell you a lot about her as a person. She's studying law, she likes some old music, and she has a mini.
That's literally it. I'm out. Although kudos for it being a mini-mini, not a "mini"-mini.
Maybe if I had got around to reading it sooner this would have been a differentstory reading experience for me because there was nothing hugely objectionable about any aspect of it, and the writing was fair. Still, I'm not going to continuing the story. I just don't really care that much about what happens next, unfortunately. In fact, I've got a couple of predictions about what will happen next, but even that is not enticement enough for me to carry on with this series.
Literally zero. Like, nothing about it seemed familiar. Sometimes I'll forget a book title, but the blurb will remind me, but not this time.
I mean, having read the blurb, I can kinda see why it might have appealed to past me, but it's certainly not something I would buy any more. The dangers of have too many kindle purchases and not enough time! Chances are it's a good 3/4 years since I actually acquired this book.
Anyway, all this preamble might give you some idea why my rating is rather low. It's nothing against the book per se, just that it isn't the kind of thing for me. And it's all become a bit cliched in the intervening years. It's all a little bit predictable and the story isn't mega amazing or anything, but I'll admit that it was an easy read. The pace was quite good and I was never bored or struggling, but equally I was never all that gripped. The characters weren't quite cookie-cutter, just more a little flat. We spend 400-odd pages with Sam and I couldn't really tell you a lot about her as a person. She's studying law, she likes some old music, and she has a mini.
That's literally it. I'm out. Although kudos for it being a mini-mini, not a "mini"-mini.
Maybe if I had got around to reading it sooner this would have been a different
November 1, 2012
So I've just finished this fantasy read, and while my general impression of it is good, there are some short-comings I found disappointing. Most of that is due to personal preference, so I shall go through the good first.
Vortex follows the adventures of Sam White as she meets with a man from her nightmares, Damian. The premise was interesting and the first half of the story was very engaging with some great action and character driven scenes. The editing could've been a little tighter, particularly at the beginning as I found the prose quite heavy, but it didn't detract from the overall enjoyment. It was hilarious reading how Damian questions modern technology and Sam's impatience at explaining things to him, and the development of their friendship was believable and well paced.
However, the second half of the book wasn't quite as strong (WARNING SPOILERS). When Sam is transported to Damian's world, her character weakened considerably. Rather than build on her key role in an upcoming battle, she becomes a helpless heroine, and any conflict that arises, either with the plot or with the characters, is settled much much too easily. There was no real tension in her dynamic with Damian and in general the supporting cast didn't provide any real conflict or challenge. There was also much more repetition of the same 'arguments' with no difference in outcome, making it appear pointless.
Also, Sam seems to accept the new world with far too much readiness with no sadness for leaving her former life or missing the conveniences of modern living, until the end where it's suddenly picked up on, and her reason to 'return home from happiness' I found implausible. I didn't find her reactions believable, the scenes started to become predictable and the romance, which had initially developed very well, became stilted and cliched. This disappointed me because Sam had the potential to become quite a memorable and unique character as a fantasy heroine but this was never really pushed, and Damian too lost the elements which made him interesting.
OVERALL:
For fans of the high fantasy genre who eat up Tolkein and George R.R. Martin, Vortex fits snugly with their epics, and will definitely be enjoyed. However if you're like me and want a bit more of a new twist on what can be an overworked genre, sadly you won't find it here. Nonetheless, I did enjoy the story, and am eager to see what the author produces next!
Vortex follows the adventures of Sam White as she meets with a man from her nightmares, Damian. The premise was interesting and the first half of the story was very engaging with some great action and character driven scenes. The editing could've been a little tighter, particularly at the beginning as I found the prose quite heavy, but it didn't detract from the overall enjoyment. It was hilarious reading how Damian questions modern technology and Sam's impatience at explaining things to him, and the development of their friendship was believable and well paced.
However, the second half of the book wasn't quite as strong (WARNING SPOILERS). When Sam is transported to Damian's world, her character weakened considerably. Rather than build on her key role in an upcoming battle, she becomes a helpless heroine, and any conflict that arises, either with the plot or with the characters, is settled much much too easily. There was no real tension in her dynamic with Damian and in general the supporting cast didn't provide any real conflict or challenge. There was also much more repetition of the same 'arguments' with no difference in outcome, making it appear pointless.
Also, Sam seems to accept the new world with far too much readiness with no sadness for leaving her former life or missing the conveniences of modern living, until the end where it's suddenly picked up on, and her reason to 'return home from happiness' I found implausible. I didn't find her reactions believable, the scenes started to become predictable and the romance, which had initially developed very well, became stilted and cliched. This disappointed me because Sam had the potential to become quite a memorable and unique character as a fantasy heroine but this was never really pushed, and Damian too lost the elements which made him interesting.
OVERALL:
For fans of the high fantasy genre who eat up Tolkein and George R.R. Martin, Vortex fits snugly with their epics, and will definitely be enjoyed. However if you're like me and want a bit more of a new twist on what can be an overworked genre, sadly you won't find it here. Nonetheless, I did enjoy the story, and am eager to see what the author produces next!
June 11, 2015
Imagine two worlds, one with magic and one without. The one without is our world. Samantha, Sam, is going to college, but she doesn’t really want to be there. It was something that her father and her had planned on but now she wants something else, she just doesn’t know what. At the same time she has been having all kinds of weird nightmares.
Damian is a demon and comes from this other world. He keeps seeing this ghost girl that is really sad but won’t move on. One night he proceeds to save her and ends up in her world. Of course Sam is not impressed by Damian and tries everything to get rid of him. But eventually they connect and Damian brings her back to his world. But if they are going to work together, they need to figure out the differences between their worlds.
This was a good book. I really liked Sam. She is not the typical, start struck girl that you usually see in these kinds of books. She is very real and can definitely think for herself. I liked the differences between the worlds and how they worked around that. I admit that I wasn’t a fan of the ending but it is something that I could see Sam doing.
Over all this is a really good story. There is a second book, Wicked Game and I would be willing to read this too. Check it out; this might be your next favorite book.
I received this book for free a while ago in exchange for an honest review.
Damian is a demon and comes from this other world. He keeps seeing this ghost girl that is really sad but won’t move on. One night he proceeds to save her and ends up in her world. Of course Sam is not impressed by Damian and tries everything to get rid of him. But eventually they connect and Damian brings her back to his world. But if they are going to work together, they need to figure out the differences between their worlds.
This was a good book. I really liked Sam. She is not the typical, start struck girl that you usually see in these kinds of books. She is very real and can definitely think for herself. I liked the differences between the worlds and how they worked around that. I admit that I wasn’t a fan of the ending but it is something that I could see Sam doing.
Over all this is a really good story. There is a second book, Wicked Game and I would be willing to read this too. Check it out; this might be your next favorite book.
I received this book for free a while ago in exchange for an honest review.
September 23, 2013
The author supplied a copy of this book for an honest review.
Vortex tells the tale of Samantha, a twenty something woman in Britain, and Damien, a demon cursed with conscience. The book begins with Damien being sucked into 21st Century Britain and then with Sam going back to his more medieval and magical world. The book could use a good editing. There are many pages where the same ideas are thought by the characters over and over without moving the story forward. The two main protagonists have the same miscommunication over and over again. Once or twice, ok. But four or five times? Sam's jump into the vortex is not a surprise--its readily predictable. The romance between Sam and Damien comes out of nowhere. It is clear that Damien is enamored by Sam, but Sam shows nothing but impatience for Damien until she suddenly will miss him. Then she just as suddenly loves him. Her character needs more depth for the reader to get behind her commitment to Damien and his world. As my rating notes, the book was ok, and if you really like the fantasy/alternative world type of story, you might like it more than that. It wasn't adult enough for me. Sam could easily be 17 and this could be a YA book.
Vortex tells the tale of Samantha, a twenty something woman in Britain, and Damien, a demon cursed with conscience. The book begins with Damien being sucked into 21st Century Britain and then with Sam going back to his more medieval and magical world. The book could use a good editing. There are many pages where the same ideas are thought by the characters over and over without moving the story forward. The two main protagonists have the same miscommunication over and over again. Once or twice, ok. But four or five times? Sam's jump into the vortex is not a surprise--its readily predictable. The romance between Sam and Damien comes out of nowhere. It is clear that Damien is enamored by Sam, but Sam shows nothing but impatience for Damien until she suddenly will miss him. Then she just as suddenly loves him. Her character needs more depth for the reader to get behind her commitment to Damien and his world. As my rating notes, the book was ok, and if you really like the fantasy/alternative world type of story, you might like it more than that. It wasn't adult enough for me. Sam could easily be 17 and this could be a YA book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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