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Cordelia Kelly #1
Duality
My name is Cordelia Kelly and I'm an empath. I know what you're thinking. In fact, I know what you're feeling, too. I could use your emotions against you or free you from their constraints. My choice, really, and depends on my mood. You see, I filter both light and dark emotions from humans, but which I chose depends on which side of me is in charge.
I'm not normal. I am the line walker and restorer of balance. A Royal. Think black sheep with red hair - not the blonde bombshell princess. I'm an aberration and unique. Not fully light, nor fully dark. Not accepted by anyone, but wanted by everyone. Mostly for their own amusements or nefarious purposes.
Except for Sol Winterborn. He sees the real me. When fate throws us together to unravel the mystery of my grandmothers death, we have to choose our destiny. Walk together... or continue alone?
The problem is I've been found by those who want me dead, and Sol has deep secrets of his own. My only choice now is to fight... or die.
The road is dark, yet I follow the light.
For now.
I'm not normal. I am the line walker and restorer of balance. A Royal. Think black sheep with red hair - not the blonde bombshell princess. I'm an aberration and unique. Not fully light, nor fully dark. Not accepted by anyone, but wanted by everyone. Mostly for their own amusements or nefarious purposes.
Except for Sol Winterborn. He sees the real me. When fate throws us together to unravel the mystery of my grandmothers death, we have to choose our destiny. Walk together... or continue alone?
The problem is I've been found by those who want me dead, and Sol has deep secrets of his own. My only choice now is to fight... or die.
The road is dark, yet I follow the light.
For now.
225 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2013
1 person is currently reading
612 people want to read
About the author
E.R. Pierce
30 books93 followersLike me on Facebook:
ER Pierce
I'm a work in progress who adores dark chocolate, the fresh mountain air, and the sound of rushing rivers.
I enjoy the salted breeze from the ocean, and the warmth of the sun heating my body as I sit on the rocks listening to the waves and gulls. Just thinking.
My mind is a chaotic mixture of realism and dreams, tempered by my four spirited children and creative husband.
I'm a multi-genre author at the whim of my erratic muse. I'm a yoga enthusiast, natural food lover, and I love body art.
ER Pierce
I'm a work in progress who adores dark chocolate, the fresh mountain air, and the sound of rushing rivers.
I enjoy the salted breeze from the ocean, and the warmth of the sun heating my body as I sit on the rocks listening to the waves and gulls. Just thinking.
My mind is a chaotic mixture of realism and dreams, tempered by my four spirited children and creative husband.
I'm a multi-genre author at the whim of my erratic muse. I'm a yoga enthusiast, natural food lover, and I love body art.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
April 28, 2013
Duality is a great read. The chemistry with Cordelia and Sol is magical. Cordelia and her inner struggles with herself being good or evil are almost as real as most people’s struggles in daily life. ER makes them believable. I was really pulled into this book right from the start. Sol seems to be the most caring of men when it comes to Cordelia. He wants to help her with her struggles and also make her stronger. She is complete with Sol.
I don’t usually read a lot of Urban Fantasy, they can really lose you in their stories by being a little bit too far-fetched. ER kept the book on a level you could relate too. I understand its fantasy, but for me it seemed close to real. I would highly recommend this book to anyone, It was a wonderful read.
Awesome Job ER Pierce!! I can honestly say I will be so excited to see what happens next.
I don’t usually read a lot of Urban Fantasy, they can really lose you in their stories by being a little bit too far-fetched. ER kept the book on a level you could relate too. I understand its fantasy, but for me it seemed close to real. I would highly recommend this book to anyone, It was a wonderful read.
Awesome Job ER Pierce!! I can honestly say I will be so excited to see what happens next.
August 17, 2013
My Rating: ★★★★
My Thoughts:
Duality was a hauntingly beautiful tale of love and redemption of two lost souls. Cordelia Kelly is splintered — broken in half on the inside of herself. Cordy is her "light" half while Delia brings out the "dark". But Cordelia isn't crazy. No, she's just an empath struggling under the weight of her gift. In an effort to protect herself she compartmentalizes the good that she does against the bad that grows because of it. With "Cordelia" in the middle, each side battles for mind and body dominance. In a weakened state, Cordy succumbs to Delia's dominance and it is she who takes control of their body the night she meets Sol. On the prowl, Delia goes to a local bar looking for someone to devour — quite literally — and she stumbles upon Sol. Their first engagement with one another leaves Cordelia breathless and Sol scorched by the touch of his other half. Because Sol too is an empath, shrouded in darkness and remorseful of the sins of his past. Cordelia and Sol begin a journey of discovery, with each other and themselves that pits them in a battle for their lives and uncovers mysteries about Cordelia's past and insight into her future.
Pierce truly wove a striking tale with this story. It was gritty and raw in spots but also very sweet. Cordelia and Sol were both so desperately broken that it was almost painful to read about their lives. But I enjoyed how the two came together and gave the title of the book greater meaning. Sure, one could relate "Duality" to Cordelia and her two halfs. But, to me the title has a more significant implication. For me, "Duality" relates to Sol and Cordelia. They were two halfs and in each other they were made whole.
And oh, for my romance girls out there: The book had romance and passion but you won't find any sex in this story. But never fear, the impact of the story more than made up for the lack of sex between the characters. But, there was plenty of steam between them. I'm sure that we will see more physical engagement between them as the series moves along but trust me on this one. This story was brilliantly done! You will not be disappointed.
Ratings Detail:
Rating for female protagonist: 4★
Rating for male protagonist: 4★
Steam Level: 4★
Plot Viability: 4★
General Storyline: 4★
Story Ending: 4★
Ease of Reading: 4★
Book editing: 4★
Cliffhanger: Yes
Overall rating: 4★
Would I recommend this series: Yes.
Would I continue the series: Yes.
Would I read other books by this author: Yes.
For more of my reviews visit The BookChick Blog
VERY GOOD: The characteristics of a 4 star book include: a great story; I loved the characters; and there was an interesting plot and unique story elements; there may have been a few odd things kept the story from being amazing. I would read it again and I would recommend it to a friend.This book was received from the author in exchange for an honest review.
My Thoughts:
Duality was a hauntingly beautiful tale of love and redemption of two lost souls. Cordelia Kelly is splintered — broken in half on the inside of herself. Cordy is her "light" half while Delia brings out the "dark". But Cordelia isn't crazy. No, she's just an empath struggling under the weight of her gift. In an effort to protect herself she compartmentalizes the good that she does against the bad that grows because of it. With "Cordelia" in the middle, each side battles for mind and body dominance. In a weakened state, Cordy succumbs to Delia's dominance and it is she who takes control of their body the night she meets Sol. On the prowl, Delia goes to a local bar looking for someone to devour — quite literally — and she stumbles upon Sol. Their first engagement with one another leaves Cordelia breathless and Sol scorched by the touch of his other half. Because Sol too is an empath, shrouded in darkness and remorseful of the sins of his past. Cordelia and Sol begin a journey of discovery, with each other and themselves that pits them in a battle for their lives and uncovers mysteries about Cordelia's past and insight into her future.
Pierce truly wove a striking tale with this story. It was gritty and raw in spots but also very sweet. Cordelia and Sol were both so desperately broken that it was almost painful to read about their lives. But I enjoyed how the two came together and gave the title of the book greater meaning. Sure, one could relate "Duality" to Cordelia and her two halfs. But, to me the title has a more significant implication. For me, "Duality" relates to Sol and Cordelia. They were two halfs and in each other they were made whole.
And oh, for my romance girls out there: The book had romance and passion but you won't find any sex in this story. But never fear, the impact of the story more than made up for the lack of sex between the characters. But, there was plenty of steam between them. I'm sure that we will see more physical engagement between them as the series moves along but trust me on this one. This story was brilliantly done! You will not be disappointed.
Ratings Detail:
Rating for female protagonist: 4★
Rating for male protagonist: 4★
Steam Level: 4★
Plot Viability: 4★
General Storyline: 4★
Story Ending: 4★
Ease of Reading: 4★
Book editing: 4★
Cliffhanger: Yes
Overall rating: 4★
Would I recommend this series: Yes.
Would I continue the series: Yes.
Would I read other books by this author: Yes.
For more of my reviews visit The BookChick Blog
May 6, 2013
I’ve been told Duality falls into the paranormal romance, hybrid urban fantasy category and I think a couple of other of genres. I understand the importance of these categories, to help readers perform searches, but there should be a category for 'darn' good books. Duality is a good book. The writing is snappy and the story-line is engaging. I want to use a stronger word than 'darn', but I don’t think Amazon would like my choice. In my opinion, this is a story that any adult can enjoy, regardless of what genre they might normally read.
The heroine Cordelia Kelly is a dual-natured empath. The emotions of others around her - both positive (light) and negative (dark) emotions affect her psychically. As do all of us do to some degree, she wages an internal battle within herself to balance her light and dark emotions. Dark emotions appeal to her wanton, feral nature while light emotions bolster the good person she wants to become. It’s more than a good versus evil story. It’s a inner-conflict to achieve a balance, because life is about choices and balance. She has to learn to accept herself, all of herself - her strengths as well as her flaws and weaknesses. Isn’t this something we must all learn to do?
To aid her in finding that balance is the anti-hero of this story, the deliciously wicked Sol Winterborn. He walks the razor thin edge separating his soul from the light or eternal darkness. He and Cordelia are tied to each other the way night follows day. It’s an atypical romance, but it’s compelling. It remains to be seen, if Sol is going to help her become whole and find the balance she seeks - or if his influence will push her father down the dark path of no return. You’ll have to buy and read the book to find out.
I loved this book. It’s a really ‘darn’ good book.
The heroine Cordelia Kelly is a dual-natured empath. The emotions of others around her - both positive (light) and negative (dark) emotions affect her psychically. As do all of us do to some degree, she wages an internal battle within herself to balance her light and dark emotions. Dark emotions appeal to her wanton, feral nature while light emotions bolster the good person she wants to become. It’s more than a good versus evil story. It’s a inner-conflict to achieve a balance, because life is about choices and balance. She has to learn to accept herself, all of herself - her strengths as well as her flaws and weaknesses. Isn’t this something we must all learn to do?
To aid her in finding that balance is the anti-hero of this story, the deliciously wicked Sol Winterborn. He walks the razor thin edge separating his soul from the light or eternal darkness. He and Cordelia are tied to each other the way night follows day. It’s an atypical romance, but it’s compelling. It remains to be seen, if Sol is going to help her become whole and find the balance she seeks - or if his influence will push her father down the dark path of no return. You’ll have to buy and read the book to find out.
I loved this book. It’s a really ‘darn’ good book.
May 31, 2013
Duality was a really good read! Cordelia/Delia is my kind of girl, says it like it is and she has a potty mouth, lol. She fights to keep her past locked away and is hiding from her destiny, so she has turned herself into a bit of a recluse. Everything changes when she runs into Sol while she’s out looking for a good time. Sol was tired of the way his life was going, so he left the darkness behind him and set out to search for the light, and when he saw her, he knew she was it.
I think many people can connect with Cordelia. Everyone has some past hurt they want to forget, some more than others, but we all know what it’s like to try overcome things that you never thought you could or would. We run into people in our lives whether they are friends or lovers of some sort, that help us with letting go and moving on, Cordelia found that in Sol. They both connected and helped each other in ways neither one of them thought they deserved. But everyone deserves it. I really enjoyed Duality, and am looking forward to the next installment in the series.
I think many people can connect with Cordelia. Everyone has some past hurt they want to forget, some more than others, but we all know what it’s like to try overcome things that you never thought you could or would. We run into people in our lives whether they are friends or lovers of some sort, that help us with letting go and moving on, Cordelia found that in Sol. They both connected and helped each other in ways neither one of them thought they deserved. But everyone deserves it. I really enjoyed Duality, and am looking forward to the next installment in the series.
September 11, 2013
I thought the writing in this book was terrific. I got incredible visuals from her descriptions. Cordelia and Sol were clearly meant to be together and I liked that the author didn't make them question the why of their attraction too much. My biggest hesitation in the book was that it was too quickly over and left me feeling like I didn't get the whole story. Yeah I get its a series and there will probably be more, but I felt just a bit cheated in this one. Maybe because they didn't get to finally have sex with each other, heck poor Cordelia never really got it at all! Sol even interrupted her with herself....
Hats off to the author though and I will look for the next one.
Hats off to the author though and I will look for the next one.
September 20, 2013
Duality is the first book in a series. The story is about an empath named Cordelia. Cordelia’s personality is split between light and dark (also referred to as Delia and Cordy.) Her light side helps eases pain, anxiety, anger, fear, etc. She can be naïve at times and seeks the good in all people. Her dark side unleashes the pain, fear, anxiety, etc. back into the person. This side is good at revenge or if Cordelia finds herself in a dangerous situation. Her empathic abilities also control the elements – although she doesn’t have much control over them. For example, when she cries, she can cause a flash flood. Cordelia meets Sol, another empath, at a bar. There is an attraction between the two, but certain events cause a strain in their budding relationship.
The story is written in first person following Cordelia. Cordelia can be confusing at times between the switch of her Cordy/Delia personalities – although she states she is one person despite the two completely different controlling personalities. Depending on which personality you get, will determine the traits. Sol is another main character in the story. Sol has had a tainted past, but seems genuine in helping Cordelia with her life. There are not too many characters in the book which shows how isolated Cordelia really is.
The story had an interesting premise. I think I would have enjoyed the story more with a little less sexual content and more explanation on the events/past of the characters and their abilities. The reader is given a brief history of the light and dark empaths as well as a few sentences here and there about Cordelia’s life, but that’s about it. I wanted to know more about the different abilities, Sol’s past, etc. The story also ends directly (and I mean directly) after the climax. There is no explanation or down time afterwards. I’m assuming the “I’ll explain…” at the end of the book will be part of the next one?
Overall, it was an interesting read. If you like paranormal reads that looks at both good and bad in one person, then you might want to try this book.
The story is written in first person following Cordelia. Cordelia can be confusing at times between the switch of her Cordy/Delia personalities – although she states she is one person despite the two completely different controlling personalities. Depending on which personality you get, will determine the traits. Sol is another main character in the story. Sol has had a tainted past, but seems genuine in helping Cordelia with her life. There are not too many characters in the book which shows how isolated Cordelia really is.
The story had an interesting premise. I think I would have enjoyed the story more with a little less sexual content and more explanation on the events/past of the characters and their abilities. The reader is given a brief history of the light and dark empaths as well as a few sentences here and there about Cordelia’s life, but that’s about it. I wanted to know more about the different abilities, Sol’s past, etc. The story also ends directly (and I mean directly) after the climax. There is no explanation or down time afterwards. I’m assuming the “I’ll explain…” at the end of the book will be part of the next one?
Overall, it was an interesting read. If you like paranormal reads that looks at both good and bad in one person, then you might want to try this book.
June 29, 2013
This book was PERFECT!!
Cordelia is an empathy so life in her shoes isn't easy. She's never even met another empathy like her. that is until she meets Sol. He is everything she is plus he has a few special powers that intrigues Cordelia. Especially since for as long as she can remember she has always felt like two different people. One light and one dark. But when she is around Sol she feels balanced between the two. But when Sol disappears can she keep her darker side at bay before lives are put in danger?
Speaking as someone that has read some of E.R. Pierce's older works OMG has her writing gone to a whole new level!! It's polished and refined and this story was just simply perfect. I got so lost in the world Pierce created it was like the words were jumping off the page and coming to life around me. I loved the world that she created. It's been three days since I've read Duality and I just can't seem to get into any other books because my mind is still enraptured by the world E.R. Pierce created. All I want to do is jump back in and spend some time with Cordelia and Sol.
I loved both sides of Cordelia but if I have to chose then I would go with her dark side. She is fun and a risk taker, and a whole lot naughty; whereas her good side is quiet and plays by the rules. I loved Sol and especially loved the twist at the end. (NO!! I will NOT tell you. I am not a spoiler bunny. You'll just have to read it for yourself to find out. lol)
Overall this is a dark paranormal romance that shouldn't be missed! In a word...FLAWLESS!
Cordelia is an empathy so life in her shoes isn't easy. She's never even met another empathy like her. that is until she meets Sol. He is everything she is plus he has a few special powers that intrigues Cordelia. Especially since for as long as she can remember she has always felt like two different people. One light and one dark. But when she is around Sol she feels balanced between the two. But when Sol disappears can she keep her darker side at bay before lives are put in danger?
Speaking as someone that has read some of E.R. Pierce's older works OMG has her writing gone to a whole new level!! It's polished and refined and this story was just simply perfect. I got so lost in the world Pierce created it was like the words were jumping off the page and coming to life around me. I loved the world that she created. It's been three days since I've read Duality and I just can't seem to get into any other books because my mind is still enraptured by the world E.R. Pierce created. All I want to do is jump back in and spend some time with Cordelia and Sol.
I loved both sides of Cordelia but if I have to chose then I would go with her dark side. She is fun and a risk taker, and a whole lot naughty; whereas her good side is quiet and plays by the rules. I loved Sol and especially loved the twist at the end. (NO!! I will NOT tell you. I am not a spoiler bunny. You'll just have to read it for yourself to find out. lol)
Overall this is a dark paranormal romance that shouldn't be missed! In a word...FLAWLESS!
April 17, 2014
Duality (Cordelia Kelly) I was given this book for my honest review and I can say I am very glad I got to read it.
This is my first time reading a story that has an empths in it. I was glued to this book and couldn’t put it down. When it was the end of the book I was left wanting more of Sol and Cordelia.
Cordelia Kelly has been just going through life trying to help out people who are in limbo, but she finds herself in limbo as well. She is a bloodline of the light and is having trouble with her dark side Delia . She is so lonely and would give anything to find her perfect match. Delia is her dark side and only comes out to protect her light side .I think we all have that dark side of us and more people show there’s more then the light side. I am a light side person and love this story.
Sol Winterborn has been living his life on the dark side and finds his life has passed him by without any meaning or purpose. He is searching for the peace his soul deserves and to end his loneliness. When he meets Codelia Kelly he knows he has found his mate but he knows she is fighting her dark side, she is the light that he has been searching for and it’s up to him to help her with her see things different. I really enjoyed this story and loved how these two went through so much to find love. I so want more of this wonderful couple
This is my first time reading a story that has an empths in it. I was glued to this book and couldn’t put it down. When it was the end of the book I was left wanting more of Sol and Cordelia.
Cordelia Kelly has been just going through life trying to help out people who are in limbo, but she finds herself in limbo as well. She is a bloodline of the light and is having trouble with her dark side Delia . She is so lonely and would give anything to find her perfect match. Delia is her dark side and only comes out to protect her light side .I think we all have that dark side of us and more people show there’s more then the light side. I am a light side person and love this story.
Sol Winterborn has been living his life on the dark side and finds his life has passed him by without any meaning or purpose. He is searching for the peace his soul deserves and to end his loneliness. When he meets Codelia Kelly he knows he has found his mate but he knows she is fighting her dark side, she is the light that he has been searching for and it’s up to him to help her with her see things different. I really enjoyed this story and loved how these two went through so much to find love. I so want more of this wonderful couple
August 9, 2013
I received a copy of this story for an honest review for Paranormal Romance & Author's That Rock.
Duality is a quick moving and exciting story that blends paranormal power/lore, suspense, erotica, horror, and even a little humor. Cordelia Kelly was born of two natures, one light and the other dark. As Cordy, she’s a talented empath focused on helping heal the pain and suffering of those around her. But when darkness rules, Delia’s in charge and she’s happy to deal out punishment and make others suffer like a young Cordelia once did. She feeds off of negative energy to the detriment of her prey. Cordelia struggles to lock down the two distinct fractions of herself until she stumbles across Sol, an empath with similar powers and darker secrets. Sol is older than his handsome appearance lets on and has spent years empty and alone. Together the two potential soul mates might find an opportunity for peace. They just have to fight the plans of two Royal families and Sol’s psychotic ex.
Warning, this book has some intense scenes of sex and violence. Also there’s a major cliffhanger. Overall I give it 4 out of 5. I’m interested to see more of Cordelia and Sol and will be keeping an eye out for the follow-up.
Duality is a quick moving and exciting story that blends paranormal power/lore, suspense, erotica, horror, and even a little humor. Cordelia Kelly was born of two natures, one light and the other dark. As Cordy, she’s a talented empath focused on helping heal the pain and suffering of those around her. But when darkness rules, Delia’s in charge and she’s happy to deal out punishment and make others suffer like a young Cordelia once did. She feeds off of negative energy to the detriment of her prey. Cordelia struggles to lock down the two distinct fractions of herself until she stumbles across Sol, an empath with similar powers and darker secrets. Sol is older than his handsome appearance lets on and has spent years empty and alone. Together the two potential soul mates might find an opportunity for peace. They just have to fight the plans of two Royal families and Sol’s psychotic ex.
Warning, this book has some intense scenes of sex and violence. Also there’s a major cliffhanger. Overall I give it 4 out of 5. I’m interested to see more of Cordelia and Sol and will be keeping an eye out for the follow-up.
September 22, 2013
Wow ~~ I will say I adore this book ... Crave more of it .. I adore the character .. The story line if fabulous .. I enjoy getting to read a one of a kind books .. This one I can not say enough good about it .. I love the spunk Sassy , the way she knows herself , deals with what she is thinking , the bonds that form are truly wonderful .. It is a very lovely , intriguing , special , romantic , sexy , thrilling , suspenseful ..... Book .. You will love it .. To have a refreshing new look into a topic I have not ever read before .. I can say I was so so so pleased with it .. Like I Said can not wait for more of it .. Sol makes you want to curl up with him .... So don't wait Go get it .. Rate 10 stars to me .. For having a unique read .. Loved & adored it .. Thank you ER .. Hugs ... Look forward to more
May 19, 2013
This story is about a girl who has duality in nature. I guess by having both a light and dark nature. The story started out dark and then continually flip flopped. It was unnerving and sometimes not quite clear. Cordelia gets in trouble then Cordy comes out. If her nice side shows then its Delia. Then they wait till the end and suddenly she is royalty. Basically its part of a larger story, this is just where she meets the man whos her soul mate.
September 14, 2013
I liked the idea for this book, but the writing style struck me as an author trying too hard to be creative. I think this author could use the services of a good editor - there were words used incorrectly in places, and then in other places I found adjectives so obscure I had to look them up (and I'm no language slouch). Your story is good - I'd just prefer to read it without the overblown flowery prose.
Not really for me...sorry.
Not really for me...sorry.
July 22, 2013
Wow, wow, and wow! What an awesome book! I had never read anything like it before, and I couldn't put it down. I was enthralled right from the beginning! I loved Cordelia and Sol, and their chemistry. It was so well written, and I am now a big fan of E.R. Pierce and can't wait to read more of her work!
October 7, 2013
I enjoyed this book and am looking forward to reading the next one. The book kept my attention and the story flowed at a good pace. I can really relate to Cordelia in that she put everyone else's feelings above her own. Glad to see she pulled it together at the end and took care of things. Go Cordelia!
December 17, 2013
The sexuality in this book was not ... well, let's just say there was little love or romance involved, and that made it hard for me to read. I almost stopped reading, but once I got past the first few chapters, I discovered some depth to the story. I liked Cordy and her battle with her other self, and her story was rather interesting.
May 8, 2014
This is the first book by E.R. Pierce I've read. This book was a light quick read making me wish it was a little longer. Loved the characters and the author does a great job making you visualize the story very well. I will be reading the next book in the series
September 10, 2016
Review pending.
September 14, 2012
I'm biased, but I adore Sol and Cordelia.
Read
August 10, 2016I hope you enjoy Sol and Cordelia :)
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews