Jett

Descended #1

by Dana Pratola

When a reclusive businessman takes an interest in Haven's artwork, she knows it's an answer to prayer. But Jett Cestone is an enigma with a disconcerting connection to the young women in his employ. He's by far the most unusual man she's ever met. Haven is the most interesting woman to ever cross Jett's path. But she's too naive and pure to learn what goes on in his home. Too bad he wants her more than he's wanted anyone or anything in his life.

Genres: Paranormal, Romance, Christian, Contemporary Romance, Ebooks, Spirituality, Fantasy

363 pages, ebook

First published August 11, 2012

About the author

~~ God gave me a passion to write Romance. These books don’t contain explicit sex scenes, but my characters have real desires, struggles and choices to make. A lot of the time they make the wrong ones. No subject is prohibited, but good always triumphs and God is glorified.
~~ In my personal life, He has also blessed me with a wonderful husband and three dynamic children, all of whom are destined to make wide, colorful splashes in this world. We share our New Jersey home with three dogs. I have no hobbies to speak of, unless you include writing. I don’t.
Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/danapratola...

Reviews

[Tammy Doherty · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent story! Not your typical Christian romance but one which may make you rethink your beliefs about the paranormal and psychic powers. It's not that this book will convince you they exist but Ms. Pratola presents a well-thought out argument that if someone had such abilities they would be God-given. Anything more said right now would be spoilers - so read the book to find out what I mean!

"Descended~Jett" is all romance although there is a strong element of suspense. Mostly regarding exactly what goes on in Jett Cestone's home. From the prologue it's is quite clear what Jett's personal mission is, but what motivates him and how exactly does he do it? From the start there is clearly attraction between Haven and Jett. What's refreshing is Haven's attitude. She doesn't put up with Jett's imperious ways, which is one of the things he likes about her. There's one scene where Jett tells Haven he needs to speak with her and she says, "What's up, Toots?" Jett is so utterly shocked it's hilarious.

The romance in this novel is quite racy and steamy but without crossing the threshold into graphic or inappropriate for a Christian novel. The sexual tension is real and believable. One might think it unrealistic for Jett to restrain himself in regards to Haven simply for love's sake. But once you consider his past and his current mindset (that he is meant to be alone), it is the only acceptable action (or non-action) for him to take.

I gave in to temptation and bought this book 2 nights ago. I stayed up much to late reading it the first night. Oh it was so difficult to stop and go to bed! And having to wait until after work the next day to pick it up again was equally tortuous. These characters stay with you and you just have to know what happens next. Even the secondary characters charm their way into the reader's heart. Hannah and Olivia are the kind of ladies I'd love to meet someday!

Overall, I highly recommend this novel to anyone who love a good romance story.

[Nona King · Rating 5 out of 5]

As with my reading of Dana's first novel, The Covering, Descended ~ Jett, left me near tears. Enthralled with the characters and their plight, I am floored by the depth of the story and the characters woven tight within it. Their passions are quite real, mirroring what we, as Christians weak against our own nature, battle with each day. I truly believe it is this strength of faith despite our weaknesses which draws me tightly to the characters and therefore the story.

Haven, the female lead of Descended, pulls at my heart especially because of her strained relationship with her father. The craving to have his approval and support for her art is poignant and real, something that all of us can commiserate with, either from personal experience or personal witness. I admire her strength and weakness, her willingness to pour all of her passion into her faith and her art, and her determination to not run away from her feelings for the mysterious and tortured Jett Cestone. It is this compassion which God utilizes to save his soul and teach him about strength in surrender, what some people deem weakness.

As with Gunnar from The Covering, Jett is a wonderfully faceted man of honor and justice with jagged edges of agony and anger. You want to shake him and then hug him, pray for him and curse him for his prideful foolishness. For many of us, it is close to looking at our reflection. Our rebellious nature toward God and all He wants for us. And I loved how Jett came to faith! With research and reflection. It was not an emotional reaction or decision. It was a thoughtful one based entirely on fact.

I applaud Dana, again, for weaving such an engaging and addicting tale of redemption and passion. The hurt and history, the passionate emotional entanglement... it was an enjoyable read and I can hardly wait to read what she has in store for us next!

[Carol Atta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow ... not your typical Christian novel, actually, not your typical anything. This book was unique from the first chapter. For some reason, I opened this up on my Kindle Fire even though I'm in the middle of several other books. Once I started, the others took the backseat. A paranormal love story like none other, Descended provides a number of twists, turns, and temptations that I didn't see coming. I've always believed God can and does bestow very special gifts. Are they the same as Jett's? I have no idea, though I remain open to Him doing anything with us. I read this book straight through. My only complaints, I felt Haven accepted all of Jett's "special skills" a tad too easily, and the book ended so abruptly. Maybe I was just sad it was over. Despite those two tiny "issues," the story was fantastic and highly deserving of 5 stars. Would love to read more about Haven and Jett. Part two anyone? Please ...?

[Mimi Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

I have to admit I really liked this one. Far more that I expected. It's a sweet story of two people finding and keeping love. And the best part:You can truly see them falling in love. We're not just told, we're shown as well.

As to the supernatural aspect, I like it, since it's different and befits the story.

Oh, and the cover:needs to be more noticeable.

My review for InD'tale can be found here

[Coco.V]

🎁 FREE on Amazon & on Apple iBooks today (3/9/2022)! 🎁

[Taylor.Korrin · Rating 1 out of 5]

For anyone who doesn’t want to support hate, his author just PROUDLY outed herself as a bigot on Instagram before deleting her page because of the negative response.

[Lisa Rector · Rating 5 out of 5]

What would you do if you were a young artist and a famous billionaire personally called you and invited you to his house for a proposition? Haven is more than flabbergasted, especially over the allusive man’s presumptuous nature. As a bold young woman, Haven is more than confident with her skills as an artist. But when Jett doesn’t give the curtesy of making an appearance, speaking to Haven through speakers and spying on her from cameras, Haven bristles and her personality clashes with the overly cocky man.

Sparks of contention fly. Every word they exchange is riddled with meaning and goading, emotion and intimacy. You could say Haven and Jett have effectively dug themselves under each other’s skin.

As the reader, I was so drawn in by how one character was so acutely aware of the other and how Haven had such an effect on Jett. Every time we dipped into Jett’s thoughts from his POV we saw deeper into his mind and soul. Right from the beginning, he couldn’t get Haven out of his mind. What it comes down to, he wants her, so much so, that he begins revealing glimpses of himself to her, against his better judgement. Haven learns more and more just how twisted Jett’s past really is.

But she can’t help herself either. She is drawn to him. And his supernatural abilities. But Jett believes they make him a monster. Here in lies the Beauty and the Beast vibe.

As seductive as the author paints the words to this novel, it’s a clean read. I’d rate it PG-13. Mild swear words. Jett makes several references to how much he desires and wants Haven. So much so that the average Christian reader will be hanging on to—I mean swooning—with every word. Jett is dark. Like Heathcliff or Mr. Rochester. Haven is pure and innocent. She believes in God. Jett does not. Rest assured, they delve into delicious kissing, but it doesn’t go beyond that.

The novel is intense, gripping. Devourable. I must say that I read this with ferocious hunger.

Readers who loved the Shatter Me series by Tahereh Mafi will enjoy this read.

[Sheila · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dana Pratola’s Descended: Jett is an intriguing blend of action adventure, romance, family drama, fantasy, and faithful Christian fiction. Her Christian characters wear their faith very naturally, feeling no need to preach or pray at every turn, but turning, when things go wrong, in the right direction. Meanwhile, the author's non-Christians are pleasingly natural too, some with hints of faith, some with anger, and many with secrets. The action’s great. The mystery of Jett is beautifully underplayed. And the protagonist’s journey from quiet subservience to recognition of her own value and skills is enjoyably told. Meanwhile other characters rise above far more wounded pasts, and the mysterious Jett tries not to rise to the bait of love.

Misunderstandings abound in true romantic style, but there’s more to this tale than just romance. Jett might be maligned by those jealous of his financial success, but few know the truth of his nature or his concerns, and those that do are keeping very quiet. Slowly Haven, an artist far more accomplished than her father has allowed her believe, paints her way into Jett's heart, while painting herself out of obscurity.

With scary castle, haunting corridors, amazing technology and loyal servants, all the ingredients for modern gothic horror meld seamlessly with genuine faith and hope and make for a story that’s truly different, intriguing, romantic and fun.

Disclosure: I was lucky enough to buy this while it was free.

[Suzanne Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've never been a fan of paranormal romance, but the excerpt of this book I read online was simply too tempting to pass up. I have to say from the first page I was completely sucked in. Dana Pratola has made a complete believer out of me. She's taken paranormal romance and made it Christian and morally good, which I did not think was possible. And she's created two characters, Jett and Haven, with a romance sweet and tender, yet with an attraction for each other often overlooked in Christian Fiction. I think I appreciate that most of all. I simply could not put this book down. It's a really amazing story that I cannot recommend highly enough, especially to anyone who like myself is sitting there saying, "It can't be done." Great read!

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dana Pratola has done it again...

Another hard to put down Christian romance, suspense, intrigue! I didn't read the back of the book blurb before I read this one. I was truly reading it based on my love of Dana's "The Covering"...and this did not disappoint! I enjoyed Haven's spirit, her energy, and her fire. And all I can say about Jett is...Whew! :) Just as in "The Covering", the romance is real. Not explicit, but most definitely not your wimpy Christian romance...after all, we aren't dead just because we are Christians! ;) And, the sub-plot brings the horrors of the child sex trade to light. Sobering.
If you enjoy a good Christian romance with a bit of suspense and intrigue, even a bit of humor, you will enjoy Jett! I highly recommend!

[Teresa Snyder · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could not put this book down. Loved it! Admittedly, I had some reservations prior to reading the book; and after reading the prologue. It all sounded a little too paranormal to me, but having read Dana's first book, The Covering, and loving it, I took a deep breath and started reading. It's not your typical Christian Fiction book - both story line and subject matter (somewhere between a G and PG13 rating). It's not even a book I would have picked up based on the front or back cover, but I'm so glad I trusted Dana and read the book. I can't want for the next book in the series.

[Pauline Creeden · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book really was amazing. At first I had a hard time categorizing it. Then I finally decided on Contemperary Gothic Romance. - Jane Eyre meets Batman. Yes. That works. And the romance is so well developed. The mysteries kept my mind turning for days, and I hated to see the book end.

[Blue Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full of Romance, Suspense and Mystery.
Descended~Jett is an intense book that will hook you right from the prologue. The author skillfully knits the story taking care of all the threads. Her writing style is vivid and stylish bringing the intriguing, multi layered plot to life.
Dana in her characterization builds solid foundation by developing intricate characters. Heaven is written beautifully, the readers connect with her effortlessly and get attached.
Fast paced, not your typical paranormal romance is worth your time. It is as the author says "Nothing you expect and Everything you need"
Breathtaking moments, love chemistry, and twist and turns will all leave you desperate for the next installment.
I would give this book 5 stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 and would recommend it to lovers of mystery and romance. Cannot wait to read future works of Dana.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had to take some time after reading this book so I could compose this review. I have never read a book that has made me feel the way this one did. I know I will not be able to do this review justice because this book is one you just have to read to understand why I have this massive book hangover.

It was a slow build that felt monotonous, but it really wasn't. It was slow and the climax was tame, but by the time it's over you realize Dana Pratola has made you feel. It was all too realistic and I think that's what made it feel monotonous. When I read I don't expect to read a book that feels like reality, yes I hope to be able to relate to the characters, but I always expect that little bit of unrealistic-ness to come through. The book does have a paranormal element to it, but Dana Pratola even made that feel normal.

The romance between Jett and Haven was phenomenal. This is a clean book, but it does talk about wanting to be with the other. The sexual tension was palpable!!! I was completely intrigued with Jett's paranormal side. I kept wanting to know more and more, which is what had me turning the pages. Plus, what he does with his gifts was interesting and tied in wonderfully with the book. I was surprised by the religious element to the book. I have never read a Dana Pratola novel so I didn't know she wrote Christian Fiction. I thought it was an interesting view and very tastefully done. If you don't like hearing about God then I advise you to read this novel with an open mind. It's too good to tell you not to read just take note that it is Christian Fiction.

This book has rocked me to my core. I don't know how I've never heard of Dana Pratola because she is fantastic. If you haven't read this series I highly, highly recommend you pick it up be on your way to your very own book hangover.

[George McVey · Rating 5 out of 5]

When a reclusive businessman takes an interest in Haven's artwork, she knows it's an answer to prayer. But Jett Cestone is an enigma with a disconcerting connection to the young women in his employ. He's by far the most unusual man she's ever met.
Haven is the most interesting woman to ever cross Jett's path. But she's too naive and pure to learn what goes on in his home. Too bad he wants her more than he's wanted anyone or anything in his life.

That is the back cover of the book and while it is right it doesn't tell the whole story. As a pastor I look for books that will help me grow in Christ even in my fiction. Descended is definitely one of those books. It takes a unique look at the story of one of the Nephilium and shows in a subtle way how no one is beyond Christ's Salvation. The characters are realistic in their struggles and the story isn't your typical christian "pie in the sky" plot. Dana has written a book that makes you look at hard choices and difficult solutions to some of our worlds darkest problems.

If you want a book to make you feel good but not challenge you then I would give this one a pass. However if you like your fiction to make you stay up reading and cause you to think about deep answers to some of life's most confusing circumstances then this book is for you. I loved every minute of it and can't wait to see where Dana takes these characters in her next installment. I have most certainly become a huge fan of Dana Pratola and it was Descended that made me one.

[Barbara Brink · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wasn't sure what to expect when I started this book, but I soon learned that Ms. Pratola's story was going to keep me coming back for more. I truly had important things to do, but instead, kept picking up my phone to read "just one more chapter." The romance between Jett and Haven was pretty intense and sparks were flying hot and heavy between them. The side story of Jett's war against white slavery sets the tone a little darker than most romances but was definitely intriguing as he fought physical battles against evil men, mental battles with himself, and a spiritual battle with God. I don't want to give anything away but I wouldn't mind my husband having one or two of his special powers:)

[Priscila · Rating 5 out of 5]

Caution: the following is more me fangirling than an "actual" review. You've been warned ;)

Ah-mazing! Jett <3 *swoon* That last chapter *swoons again* I'm still not over it <3
Yes, I finally understood the "not your mother's Christian fiction" reference, as well as the "Batman meets Jane Eyre". Both are spot on.
So, after 2 days (1 night) of pretty much straight reading, I finished it. Really, insert the "I chose not to be mentally present today" meme here, and you'll basically have the description of my day. Haven and Jett are definitely one of my new favorite couples! Loved the pace, the undertone, the developing of characters, ALL of it! Dark, emotional, and yet, so, so good! <3 :3

[Tracy Krauss · Rating 5 out of 5]

DESCENDED by Dana Pratola is a romance first and speculative second, although the premise of a man who can make himself invisible due to some kind of supernatural lineage is enough to put it in that category. There is a lot of great description and enough surprises to keep it interesting. Jett, the hero, uses his gift in ways that seem a paradox at times, but are ultimately for good. Aspiring artist Haven falls in love with him, but, as can be imagined, there are complications... I enjoyed the book. I've read a fair bit of romance and it delivered in comparison to other romance stories.

[Robin Patchen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is nothing like what I usually read, but I have to say, I couldn't put it down. I fell in love with the characters, even the secondary ones. I found myself looking forward to getting back into the story whenever I had the chance. I highly recommend this.

[Laranda Terry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this book. I literally could not put it down!! I am a lover of good fiction and consider myself a "professional reader", and I highly recommend it! One of the best I've read in a while. Excited for book 2!

[Fritz Franke · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dana Pratola is a master storyteller. Taking a very tough superhero type skill and weaving it into a very believable plot and character, made for a spell binding story that I couldn't put down. Bravo, Dana. Bring on the next one.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. This is such a beautifully written story. The author crafted each scene and character with care, even the seemingly insignificant ones. I enjoyed this book immensely, so much so that I put off finishing it for several nights so I wouldn't see it end. Can't wait for the next one in the series.

[Pat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing and riveting. A unique take on God's desire and ability to rescue and redeem. I am coming back to add to this review because I find myself days later continuing to think about these characters and wishing there were yet more books available right now by Dana Pratola.

[InD'tale Magazine · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5/5.0

What a lovely, charming, heart-warming story!

Read full review in the 2012 October issue of InD’tale Magazine.

[Toni Shiloh]

Wow! What a page turning read. This was the first time I've read Ms. Pratola so I didn't know what to expect. The way she builds scenery, pulls the reader into the emotions of the characters are breathtakingly stunning. This is a book that will have you thinking about it long after it's finished.

[Lillian Duncan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fun book that I enjoyed. the author did a great job with her characters and description.

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best books I’ve ever read! The way the author wove in God’s transformation in the characters’ lives ... amazing. Loved it ❤️

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVED this book! Hoping there is a sequel in the future!

[Diane Adams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jett Cestone is one of the most unique characters I have ever met in a book and the plot of the first book in the Descended series fit him perfectly. On one page, he is an incredible hero you would trust with the lives of your loved ones. But on the next page, you are left wondering whether he’s a good guy or a bad guy. Haven wonders too. Her instincts tell her it’s okay to trust him but she can’t make sense of the things she sees and hears going on around her. I had to keep on reading and I’ll bet you will too! I especially liked the explanation for Jett’s unusual abilities … and now I can’t wait to meet Sebastian and find out what he can do! I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Pamela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh, my goodness!

Let me begin by saying I am not normally a Paranormal reader. Some things are just too far "out there" to make them believable, and I must believe in at least the probability of a story to truly enjoy it.

That said, I devoured this book!

Dana's style, voice, and passion to tell a great story came through. The Bible talks about people who were translated or transported (Jesus and Phillip to name a couple) and knowing this made Jett's powers more realistic for me.

The romance between Jett and Haven was true to form and the message contained within the story one I could identify with.

I've read several books by this author and enjoyed each one. The Covering is still my favorite, but Jett is a close second.

Kudos Dana.