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The Beautiful and the Damned
Cyn’s blackouts have deadly consequences in this sexy, suspenseful spinoff to the New York Times bestselling Hollow series.Cyn and Avian are far from a perfect match. She’s a witch who casts spells on men so she can steal their cars. He spends his time being judge, jury, and executioner to the truly evil in the supernatural realm.
When the blackouts Cyn’s been having ever since her time in Sleepy Hollow start escalating, she finds herself unable to remember where she’s been or what she’s been doing. Frightened, she seeks guidance at a local church, and it’s there she meets Avian.
The unlikely pair soon discovers that her blackouts are a side effect of what she truly is—an Echo—a conduit for souls of the dead. The only way to prevent Cyn from losing complete control is to return to Sleepy Hollow and vanquish the source of her power—but she may not survive the process. And if she does? She won’t ever be the same...
When the blackouts Cyn’s been having ever since her time in Sleepy Hollow start escalating, she finds herself unable to remember where she’s been or what she’s been doing. Frightened, she seeks guidance at a local church, and it’s there she meets Avian.
The unlikely pair soon discovers that her blackouts are a side effect of what she truly is—an Echo—a conduit for souls of the dead. The only way to prevent Cyn from losing complete control is to return to Sleepy Hollow and vanquish the source of her power—but she may not survive the process. And if she does? She won’t ever be the same...
272 pages, Hardcover
First published October 1, 2013
28 people are currently reading
2316 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Verday
13 books1,774 followersJessica Verday is the New York Times bestselling author of The Hollow Trilogy, published by Simon & Schuster/Simon Pulse. She wrote the first draft of THE HOLLOW by hand, using thirteen spiral-bound notebooks and fifteen black pens. The first draft of THE HAUNTED took fifteen spiral-bound notebooks and twenty black pens. THE HIDDEN took too many notebooks and too many pens to count. Find out more at jessicaverday.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
November 8, 2013
AHHHHHHHHHH You don't understand how freakishy freaking AMAZING this freaking book is!!!! !I'm fangirling soooo much right now. I'm pratically jumping in my seat.
So, the story is both Cyn and Thirteens point of view. We saw them both in the Sleepy Hollow series. We do get to see Caspian and Abbey again like once. Which is better than freaking nothing but still... it kind of stinks because I love me some Caspian. Hehehehehe Caspian...<3
(I'm going to add more to this review but can't right now because I got to go to school. To be continued...)
Well the fangirling has kind of stopped now because I went through an entire day of freaking school and school killed my vibe. Soooooo not to be continued...
So, the story is both Cyn and Thirteens point of view. We saw them both in the Sleepy Hollow series. We do get to see Caspian and Abbey again like once. Which is better than freaking nothing but still... it kind of stinks because I love me some Caspian. Hehehehehe Caspian...<3
(I'm going to add more to this review but can't right now because I got to go to school. To be continued...)
Well the fangirling has kind of stopped now because I went through an entire day of freaking school and school killed my vibe. Soooooo not to be continued...
May 3, 2014
Source: I own a copy of this book.
Note: These are my personal opinions. I received no outside person comments or opinions.
Let me first start by saying that I haven't read the Hallow Trilogy in years and I don't remember if it had a stalking theme or not. All I remember is I loved those books so I thought I would give this one a try. To tell you the truth, I was kind of disappointed. And, to be honest, I'm not a fan of books with a stalking theme.
I feel like the beginning and middle were slow and the ending was rushed. It just was this girl being stalked then rescued and not a lot was happening. But, when I finished the book I was still left with tons of questions. And, I really hate when stand-alone books leave me with that.
The main female character was kind of portrayed as a damsel in distress--she was constantly having to be saved by a man, like girl, do you know how to throw a punch or not? Apparently not.
The main male character was kind of portrayed as this guy who doesn't care about anything until he sees a hot girl, then its all eyes on her and he drops everything for her because she reminds him of his last girlfriend--or rather love interest.
The romantic thing between these two characters was rocky. I was questioning if it needed to be added at all. Like could it have just been left as friends help out another friend?
I did, however, like, at the end how Abby and Caspin returned and had a few lines. Caspin's one line of getting leather pants made me giggle. That was a great addition to the book and ending.
Authors, its okay to bring old characters from previous books into your spin-off series or novellas. Readers actually like that.
Overall, I kind of felt this book was more of a mystery book than a fantasy fiction book.
Note: These are my personal opinions. I received no outside person comments or opinions.
Let me first start by saying that I haven't read the Hallow Trilogy in years and I don't remember if it had a stalking theme or not. All I remember is I loved those books so I thought I would give this one a try. To tell you the truth, I was kind of disappointed. And, to be honest, I'm not a fan of books with a stalking theme.
I feel like the beginning and middle were slow and the ending was rushed. It just was this girl being stalked then rescued and not a lot was happening. But, when I finished the book I was still left with tons of questions. And, I really hate when stand-alone books leave me with that.
The main female character was kind of portrayed as a damsel in distress--she was constantly having to be saved by a man, like girl, do you know how to throw a punch or not? Apparently not.
The main male character was kind of portrayed as this guy who doesn't care about anything until he sees a hot girl, then its all eyes on her and he drops everything for her because she reminds him of his last girlfriend--or rather love interest.
The romantic thing between these two characters was rocky. I was questioning if it needed to be added at all. Like could it have just been left as friends help out another friend?
I did, however, like, at the end how Abby and Caspin returned and had a few lines. Caspin's one line of getting leather pants made me giggle. That was a great addition to the book and ending.
Authors, its okay to bring old characters from previous books into your spin-off series or novellas. Readers actually like that.
Overall, I kind of felt this book was more of a mystery book than a fantasy fiction book.
October 4, 2013
I read the first book in the Hollow Series so long ago that I have forgotten all about it. Apparently there are some spoilers in this book if you haven't read the whole Hollow Series but I didn't notice them. I loved Beautiful and the Damned. It's a dark and very entertaining read. I am not sure where it fits in with the Hollow Series but its a great stand alone story. I think it is meant to be a companion novel. It is scary, twisted and just plain good and I read it in about one sitting.
The story follows Cyn and the predicaments she finds herself in due to her "nature." I was very curious about Cyn's blackouts and how everything would pan out. I was also very scared for her safety throughout the book because some scary stuff goes down while she is blacked out. I, of course, was just hoping that Avian would come to her rescue. Their relationship isn't a quick and easy relationship, as they spend most of their time trying to avoid the other. I like that sort of push and pull relationship as opposed to the fall in love over night one.
Overall, I would recommend this book to paranormal lovers and for anyone that has read the Hollow Series. It was a fast read with lots of bumps and twists that will keep you reading.
The story follows Cyn and the predicaments she finds herself in due to her "nature." I was very curious about Cyn's blackouts and how everything would pan out. I was also very scared for her safety throughout the book because some scary stuff goes down while she is blacked out. I, of course, was just hoping that Avian would come to her rescue. Their relationship isn't a quick and easy relationship, as they spend most of their time trying to avoid the other. I like that sort of push and pull relationship as opposed to the fall in love over night one.
Overall, I would recommend this book to paranormal lovers and for anyone that has read the Hollow Series. It was a fast read with lots of bumps and twists that will keep you reading.
October 16, 2013
There were a few reasons why I was looking forward to this book; I like and respect Jessica Verday as a person/author; This is a spin-off of the ‘The Hollow’ series, which I really enjoyed; and Cyn was a character that I really liked in ‘The Hollow’, however we did not get to see a lot of her, so I was really happy that she was getting her own book.
The story was entertaining and well developed. Although this is a spin-off, I feel that Jessica Verday includes enough of the backstory to avoid any confusion for new readers. However, for those who have read the original series, you will see that Jessica has intricately woven characters and events from Sleepy Hollow into The Beautiful and the Damned. Some of these woven aspects are very subtle, and it was masterfully constructed. Cyn certainly brought some spice to Sleepy Hollow, and she continues to do this in this enjoyable spin-off, which is in a lot of ways, is darker and more intense than ‘The Hollow’. The Beautiful and the Damned incorporates new aspects to this paranormal world, such as vampires and hellhounds, but you also still get to enjoy the revenants and shades aspect of the original series.
Cyn, has left Sleepy Hollow, actually she ran from Sleepy Hollow, but she cannot seem to be able to run from herself. Although Cyn has dealt with the fact that all her life she can see another person’s face when she looks in the mirror, lately she has been experiencing terrifying blackouts where she wakes up with no recollection on what happened during this timeframe – even when she wakes up to find herself covered in blood. These blackouts are happening more frequently, and she is constantly haunted by her past actions during these episodes. Scared for herself, and of herself, Cyn feels like she cannot allow herself to be trusted, but tries to find comfort from Father Montgomery – and it is through him that she meets the gruff and scary Avian.
Avian, or Thirteen as he is known as, is a very complex character. He is angry, extremely guarded, hardened and clearly dangerous. But yet, you see his softer sider when it comes to Father Montgomery. You also see hints that he has been hurt in the past, and as a result, he only trusts himself and the Father. I found their relationship very charming, and it was clear that the Father had a lot of influence over the type of person Avian turned out to be – although extremely dangerous, he has chosen the path of lesser evil. Although when he lets out his inner demon he can kick-ass, he has chosen to do so only when he believes it is deserved and justified. Avian is a very strong, loyal and determined character, but can also be very sweet when he wants to be – and although there are not a lot of these moments, when they do occur, they are powerful.
Avian also knows a lot more than he is letting on. The moment he meets Cyn, he knows that she is an Echo, a human who is used as channel for the souls of the dead. Because of this, Avian instantly dislikes Cyn because of what she is, as he has his own past with Echos, but Cyn somehow gets under his skin, and he realises that she may be an innocent bystander of her own ability. There is only one chance for Cyn to stop the soul that is tormenting Cyn from within her own body – and to do so she must return to the one place that she did not want to go to – Sleepy Hollow. But, will returning to face her past be even more terrifying than the thought of not surviving the ritual to save her from the soul within her?
While Cyn is trying to understand what is happening to her and struggles with the possibilities of what she has done during her blackouts, she is also being stalked by another man who has a connection to Sleepy Hollow, but more importantly to a heartbreaking and terrifying event that haunts Cyn with her every breath.
Although Cyn is scared of herself, the monster within, her past, and her stalker, she does not act like a victim. She is still a strong character, she still fights for herself and she certainly doesn’t act like a damsel in distress. She also doesn’t fall head over heels in love with the bad-boy she has just met. In fact, they both resist their attraction to each other, as they both struggle with their past, and what they are. This creates a good amount of tension between these characters, and it takes time (and an awful event) for these two to start to like and trust each other.
There is plenty of suspense to keep this story moving along at a great pace, and like I said earlier, I really enjoyed the fact that so much is linked between this story and the original series. There was one thing that happened at the end of the book that I didn’t see coming (I can’t really say what it is as it is one of the twists), but I did like how Cyn handled the situation.
This is an intense and dark story filled with secrets and surprises, and I really enjoyed being back in the world created by Jessica Verday. Although there is no word on a sequel yet, this book has been left open for another book, so hopefully that will eventuate, as I would love to see where the story takes Cyn and Avian.
The story was entertaining and well developed. Although this is a spin-off, I feel that Jessica Verday includes enough of the backstory to avoid any confusion for new readers. However, for those who have read the original series, you will see that Jessica has intricately woven characters and events from Sleepy Hollow into The Beautiful and the Damned. Some of these woven aspects are very subtle, and it was masterfully constructed. Cyn certainly brought some spice to Sleepy Hollow, and she continues to do this in this enjoyable spin-off, which is in a lot of ways, is darker and more intense than ‘The Hollow’. The Beautiful and the Damned incorporates new aspects to this paranormal world, such as vampires and hellhounds, but you also still get to enjoy the revenants and shades aspect of the original series.
Cyn, has left Sleepy Hollow, actually she ran from Sleepy Hollow, but she cannot seem to be able to run from herself. Although Cyn has dealt with the fact that all her life she can see another person’s face when she looks in the mirror, lately she has been experiencing terrifying blackouts where she wakes up with no recollection on what happened during this timeframe – even when she wakes up to find herself covered in blood. These blackouts are happening more frequently, and she is constantly haunted by her past actions during these episodes. Scared for herself, and of herself, Cyn feels like she cannot allow herself to be trusted, but tries to find comfort from Father Montgomery – and it is through him that she meets the gruff and scary Avian.
Avian, or Thirteen as he is known as, is a very complex character. He is angry, extremely guarded, hardened and clearly dangerous. But yet, you see his softer sider when it comes to Father Montgomery. You also see hints that he has been hurt in the past, and as a result, he only trusts himself and the Father. I found their relationship very charming, and it was clear that the Father had a lot of influence over the type of person Avian turned out to be – although extremely dangerous, he has chosen the path of lesser evil. Although when he lets out his inner demon he can kick-ass, he has chosen to do so only when he believes it is deserved and justified. Avian is a very strong, loyal and determined character, but can also be very sweet when he wants to be – and although there are not a lot of these moments, when they do occur, they are powerful.
Avian also knows a lot more than he is letting on. The moment he meets Cyn, he knows that she is an Echo, a human who is used as channel for the souls of the dead. Because of this, Avian instantly dislikes Cyn because of what she is, as he has his own past with Echos, but Cyn somehow gets under his skin, and he realises that she may be an innocent bystander of her own ability. There is only one chance for Cyn to stop the soul that is tormenting Cyn from within her own body – and to do so she must return to the one place that she did not want to go to – Sleepy Hollow. But, will returning to face her past be even more terrifying than the thought of not surviving the ritual to save her from the soul within her?
While Cyn is trying to understand what is happening to her and struggles with the possibilities of what she has done during her blackouts, she is also being stalked by another man who has a connection to Sleepy Hollow, but more importantly to a heartbreaking and terrifying event that haunts Cyn with her every breath.
Although Cyn is scared of herself, the monster within, her past, and her stalker, she does not act like a victim. She is still a strong character, she still fights for herself and she certainly doesn’t act like a damsel in distress. She also doesn’t fall head over heels in love with the bad-boy she has just met. In fact, they both resist their attraction to each other, as they both struggle with their past, and what they are. This creates a good amount of tension between these characters, and it takes time (and an awful event) for these two to start to like and trust each other.
There is plenty of suspense to keep this story moving along at a great pace, and like I said earlier, I really enjoyed the fact that so much is linked between this story and the original series. There was one thing that happened at the end of the book that I didn’t see coming (I can’t really say what it is as it is one of the twists), but I did like how Cyn handled the situation.
This is an intense and dark story filled with secrets and surprises, and I really enjoyed being back in the world created by Jessica Verday. Although there is no word on a sequel yet, this book has been left open for another book, so hopefully that will eventuate, as I would love to see where the story takes Cyn and Avian.
February 16, 2016
Premise: 4/5 Stars
Actual Plot: 3/5 Stars
Characters: 3/5 Stars
Action: 2/5 Stars
Romance: 2/5 Stars
Overall Rating: 3.5/5 Stars
The Beautiful and the Damned by Jessica Verday is a companion standalone novel to her Hollow Trilogy. Although this is a companion novel, I don't think you necessarily have to read the other series before this one (at least I didn't). It is set in the same world with a few of the characters from the other series making an appearance at the end. Overall I thought this was an entertaining read. It is certainly not the best book I have ever read but I did enjoy reading. However, I feel no urge to go out and buy the Hollow Trilogy or any of Jessica Verday's other novels.
Characters: This is a story about a girl, Cyn, who is an Echo, that is she houses souls of the dead that are not ready to move on. Right now there is a particularly nasty soul inside of her that likes to take over her body and make her do harmful things to herself and others. Avian is a half-demon (as for the other half you find out towards the end of the story). He discovers Cyn on his visit to Father Montgomery. He decides to take it upon himself to help Cyn with her little problem. Lastly there's Declan. He is an ex-cop that believes Cyn killed his brother and is out for revenge. Overall there is not really any character development but they are all pretty interesting and I didn't really love or hate any of them.
Romance: To me the relationship between Cyn and Avian felt forced. Around the middle of the book it felt almost like the author thought "Oh yea they are supposed to like each other... maybe I should make them kiss now." Usually when characters are about to kiss there is some kind of lead up to it, not here. They were having a perfectly normal conversation about what Cyn was and then BOOM... kiss. I didn't really expect it to happen. Up until that point, there was absolutely nothing that made me believe they liked each other at all.
Plot/Action: This book was less than 300 pages and a standalone. Therefore, there was a lot that the author had to sacrifice for the sake of space. This may be where the trilogy might come in handy. You don't really get any of the world or background on what/who people are. Also, the action is very limited but it does happen here and there. I would say there is a plot twist towards the end but it didn't really make me gasp or anything... it was more like "oh wow I didn't expect that" and then I was over it.
Overall I did enjoy reading this book. If you are looking for something enjoyable and short but don't really care if it is all that well written then I recommend this to you. Like I said, it wasn't my favorite but I don't regret reading it. It took my about 2 hours overall to finish it.
see more reviews at www.onereadersjourney.wordpress.com
Actual Plot: 3/5 Stars
Characters: 3/5 Stars
Action: 2/5 Stars
Romance: 2/5 Stars
Overall Rating: 3.5/5 Stars
The Beautiful and the Damned by Jessica Verday is a companion standalone novel to her Hollow Trilogy. Although this is a companion novel, I don't think you necessarily have to read the other series before this one (at least I didn't). It is set in the same world with a few of the characters from the other series making an appearance at the end. Overall I thought this was an entertaining read. It is certainly not the best book I have ever read but I did enjoy reading. However, I feel no urge to go out and buy the Hollow Trilogy or any of Jessica Verday's other novels.
Characters: This is a story about a girl, Cyn, who is an Echo, that is she houses souls of the dead that are not ready to move on. Right now there is a particularly nasty soul inside of her that likes to take over her body and make her do harmful things to herself and others. Avian is a half-demon (as for the other half you find out towards the end of the story). He discovers Cyn on his visit to Father Montgomery. He decides to take it upon himself to help Cyn with her little problem. Lastly there's Declan. He is an ex-cop that believes Cyn killed his brother and is out for revenge. Overall there is not really any character development but they are all pretty interesting and I didn't really love or hate any of them.
Romance: To me the relationship between Cyn and Avian felt forced. Around the middle of the book it felt almost like the author thought "Oh yea they are supposed to like each other... maybe I should make them kiss now." Usually when characters are about to kiss there is some kind of lead up to it, not here. They were having a perfectly normal conversation about what Cyn was and then BOOM... kiss. I didn't really expect it to happen. Up until that point, there was absolutely nothing that made me believe they liked each other at all.
Plot/Action: This book was less than 300 pages and a standalone. Therefore, there was a lot that the author had to sacrifice for the sake of space. This may be where the trilogy might come in handy. You don't really get any of the world or background on what/who people are. Also, the action is very limited but it does happen here and there. I would say there is a plot twist towards the end but it didn't really make me gasp or anything... it was more like "oh wow I didn't expect that" and then I was over it.
Overall I did enjoy reading this book. If you are looking for something enjoyable and short but don't really care if it is all that well written then I recommend this to you. Like I said, it wasn't my favorite but I don't regret reading it. It took my about 2 hours overall to finish it.
see more reviews at www.onereadersjourney.wordpress.com
September 14, 2013
Dark, thrilling, romantic, and a wonderful YA paranormal romance read! The Beautiful and the Damned was a wonderful book and I really enjoyed reading it.
Confession time: I didn't realize this book was a spin off from another series until right before I started reading it. I just requested it, thinking it sounded like a pretty awesome read. And, when I found out it was a spin off, I was worried that I might end up confused while reading this, since I didn't read the original series. But, the author did a great job explaining the backstory so that I, having not read the first series, could understand without weighing down the story. And I ended up liking this book so much that I want to go back and read the original series, The Hollow. For fans of The Hollow series and new readers to this world, The Beautiful and the Damned is a book not to be missed.
Cyn was a strong heroine. She was one tough chick, to go through everything she has been through and still fight to survive. And she was a very likable character. I thought she was great. I really liked her.
Avian was also wonderful. He was a delightfully complex character. A half demon, half angel, complete with the horns and the wings. And he has his own brand of justice that he has no problem doling out to the evil supernatural creatures. He was strong and determined to do what he believed was right. And, his loyalty to his loved ones was always assured. When he wanted to, he could be quite sweet, though he hasn't had much practice at it. Still, I thought he was wonderful and I adored him. He was a great character.
The romance was steadily developed. It took a while for Cyn and Avian to trust each other first, considering the fact that neither of them have much practice in trusting others. And I like that it was realistic in the way the romance developed. I thought these two were sweet together. I haven't heard about a sequel yet, but I hope to see how their story continues.
The plot was okay. It sdragged a little in the beginning, for about the first half. But, once we get past that slow start, things speed up and I was hooked from there. There were thrills, secrets, surprises, and near death danger. I really enjoyed the story and the ending has me curious to find out what happens to these two next. Hopefully, we'll get news of a sequel soon.
The Beautiful and the Damned was a darkly brilliant YA paranormal romance. I really enjoyed reading this fantastic book. For fans of The Hollow series, I have no doubt you won't be disappointed. For readers new to this world, this is a book you'll want to check out.
*I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Confession time: I didn't realize this book was a spin off from another series until right before I started reading it. I just requested it, thinking it sounded like a pretty awesome read. And, when I found out it was a spin off, I was worried that I might end up confused while reading this, since I didn't read the original series. But, the author did a great job explaining the backstory so that I, having not read the first series, could understand without weighing down the story. And I ended up liking this book so much that I want to go back and read the original series, The Hollow. For fans of The Hollow series and new readers to this world, The Beautiful and the Damned is a book not to be missed.
Cyn was a strong heroine. She was one tough chick, to go through everything she has been through and still fight to survive. And she was a very likable character. I thought she was great. I really liked her.
Avian was also wonderful. He was a delightfully complex character. A half demon, half angel, complete with the horns and the wings. And he has his own brand of justice that he has no problem doling out to the evil supernatural creatures. He was strong and determined to do what he believed was right. And, his loyalty to his loved ones was always assured. When he wanted to, he could be quite sweet, though he hasn't had much practice at it. Still, I thought he was wonderful and I adored him. He was a great character.
The romance was steadily developed. It took a while for Cyn and Avian to trust each other first, considering the fact that neither of them have much practice in trusting others. And I like that it was realistic in the way the romance developed. I thought these two were sweet together. I haven't heard about a sequel yet, but I hope to see how their story continues.
The plot was okay. It sdragged a little in the beginning, for about the first half. But, once we get past that slow start, things speed up and I was hooked from there. There were thrills, secrets, surprises, and near death danger. I really enjoyed the story and the ending has me curious to find out what happens to these two next. Hopefully, we'll get news of a sequel soon.
The Beautiful and the Damned was a darkly brilliant YA paranormal romance. I really enjoyed reading this fantastic book. For fans of The Hollow series, I have no doubt you won't be disappointed. For readers new to this world, this is a book you'll want to check out.
*I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
March 11, 2014
This and my other reviews can be found at http://amethystbookwyrm.blogspot.co.uk/
Cyn Hargrave is on the run after blacking out, and waking up covered in blood and her boyfriend, Hunter, dead next to her. After hiding out in a small town for a few months, things start to go downhill for her with her blacking out more often and a cop from her home town, Sleepy Hollow. With her being able to influence people, her blacking out and seeing other people’s faces in the mirror Cyn finally turns to an unlikely ally. Avian, the thirteenth Revenant, has always felt like an outsider and has had an unfortunate history with Echo’s like Cyn. Together they try to break her connection to the evil soul inside her before it destroys her.
The Beautiful and The Damned is a companion book to the Hollows trilogy, and is a quick read, which, at first, the story is a bit uninteresting but it definitely picked up and I was on the edge of my seat to see what happens next. It has been a while since I have read the Hollows trilogy and while I was a bit lost with some bits, I was able to follow the story.
Cyn is a strong chick as she has been through lots and yet she still fights to survive, and also she could also easily abuse her powers, but she doesn’t as she is a good person. Avian is a complex character as he is scarred from his past, and is dealing out justice to though who deserve it, but is very loyal to those he cares about. I thought there would be more romance in this book than there was, as it was really subtle. I really like that there is a cameo of Abby and Caspian as it was good to see them again.
I did not expect the ending and it was an interesting twist. I hope there is more books in this series as I would like to see more of Cyn and Avian. I would recommend to fans of The Hollows trilogy.
Cyn Hargrave is on the run after blacking out, and waking up covered in blood and her boyfriend, Hunter, dead next to her. After hiding out in a small town for a few months, things start to go downhill for her with her blacking out more often and a cop from her home town, Sleepy Hollow. With her being able to influence people, her blacking out and seeing other people’s faces in the mirror Cyn finally turns to an unlikely ally. Avian, the thirteenth Revenant, has always felt like an outsider and has had an unfortunate history with Echo’s like Cyn. Together they try to break her connection to the evil soul inside her before it destroys her.
The Beautiful and The Damned is a companion book to the Hollows trilogy, and is a quick read, which, at first, the story is a bit uninteresting but it definitely picked up and I was on the edge of my seat to see what happens next. It has been a while since I have read the Hollows trilogy and while I was a bit lost with some bits, I was able to follow the story.
Cyn is a strong chick as she has been through lots and yet she still fights to survive, and also she could also easily abuse her powers, but she doesn’t as she is a good person. Avian is a complex character as he is scarred from his past, and is dealing out justice to though who deserve it, but is very loyal to those he cares about. I thought there would be more romance in this book than there was, as it was really subtle. I really like that there is a cameo of Abby and Caspian as it was good to see them again.
I did not expect the ending and it was an interesting twist. I hope there is more books in this series as I would like to see more of Cyn and Avian. I would recommend to fans of The Hollows trilogy.
October 7, 2013
The Beautiful and the Damned is a great book. I have to say that the cover just does not do it justice. I mean I loved every minute of it. I could not put it down. This is one of those dark stories that drags you in and keeps you there because you need to see where it is going.I felt so bad for Cyn because she is experiencing so much and she just can't figure out what the hell is going on.
Cyn keeps having these crazy blackouts and when she has them she sees and does things that she does not remember until later. Cyn has decided she needs help to figure out why she is having these crazy blackouts before something bad happens to her. So she turns to the only place she knows she turns to the church. Once she gets to the church she meets Avian. Avian becomes her savior because together they work on finding out why Cyn is having her blackouts.
Avian is the bomb because he knows what Cyn is and he tells her and together they figure out how to stop her blackouts. But as we all know this is no easy task and soon Avian and Cyn are in a fight for her life. Someone wants her destroyed and they will stop at nothing to accomplish that. Even when she finds out what she is no matter what she does she will get hurt in the end.
Cyn being an echo is the craziest thing she has ever heard of but being a conduit for the souls of the dead is no easy task for her and no matter she does she will will hear from the dead. Will she be able to ever be normal again or will Sleepy Hollow be her undoing?
Cyn keeps having these crazy blackouts and when she has them she sees and does things that she does not remember until later. Cyn has decided she needs help to figure out why she is having these crazy blackouts before something bad happens to her. So she turns to the only place she knows she turns to the church. Once she gets to the church she meets Avian. Avian becomes her savior because together they work on finding out why Cyn is having her blackouts.
Avian is the bomb because he knows what Cyn is and he tells her and together they figure out how to stop her blackouts. But as we all know this is no easy task and soon Avian and Cyn are in a fight for her life. Someone wants her destroyed and they will stop at nothing to accomplish that. Even when she finds out what she is no matter what she does she will get hurt in the end.
Cyn being an echo is the craziest thing she has ever heard of but being a conduit for the souls of the dead is no easy task for her and no matter she does she will will hear from the dead. Will she be able to ever be normal again or will Sleepy Hollow be her undoing?
January 28, 2014
A spin off series from the hollow series...... GIVE ME GIVE ME!!!! When i read that i automatically wanted to read this book. October 1st hurry up, up, up!
October 9, 2014
After reading her other books, I was disappointed in this one. Just couldn't get into it. I couldn't get interested in the characters or the story-line.
March 9, 2021
********** Possible SPOILERS. READ AT YOUR OWN RISK********
I gave this book four stars mainly because I felt it could've been better. Maybe my expectations were too high for this one, I dunno. The story line was great but over all I felt it was super rushed. Avian, "Thirteen," feelings for Cyn and vise versa just could've been written better and the quickness of ending the book. I get if Jessica wrote it because fans wanted to see what would happen to Cyn after the whole thing with Abbey and Caspian in The Hidden but it seemed like it was put together super quick like she gave Cyn a story and told her readers "here, take it or leave it" Don't get me wrong I enjoyed the read but, like I said, Cyn's story and Avian's could've been written better and maybe even had at least a second book to give them a proper ending like Abbey and Caspian. Well not exactly like Abbey and Cas but something along the lines of closure instead of wondering what else happens to them.
I gave this book four stars mainly because I felt it could've been better. Maybe my expectations were too high for this one, I dunno. The story line was great but over all I felt it was super rushed. Avian, "Thirteen," feelings for Cyn and vise versa just could've been written better and the quickness of ending the book. I get if Jessica wrote it because fans wanted to see what would happen to Cyn after the whole thing with Abbey and Caspian in The Hidden but it seemed like it was put together super quick like she gave Cyn a story and told her readers "here, take it or leave it" Don't get me wrong I enjoyed the read but, like I said, Cyn's story and Avian's could've been written better and maybe even had at least a second book to give them a proper ending like Abbey and Caspian. Well not exactly like Abbey and Cas but something along the lines of closure instead of wondering what else happens to them.
February 23, 2019
I think I've grown out of these types of books. It's not an age thing either, I just don't enjoy the fantasy, angels and demons, vampire and witch, YA romance genre anymore. I find that plot is usually forsaken for rushed romance that doesn't need to be there.
This book was the same. It could have been quite good, but it was so short and so rushed that I got nothing out of it. I didn't specifically realize it was a spinoff, but I don't think it made much of a difference. I felt like I don't really know the characters any better by the end of things and the story felt like 75% was slow buildup to 2 chapters of climax before everything was just neatly resolved.
Yeah...I think I've grown out of this genre. But that's on me, not the author.
This book was the same. It could have been quite good, but it was so short and so rushed that I got nothing out of it. I didn't specifically realize it was a spinoff, but I don't think it made much of a difference. I felt like I don't really know the characters any better by the end of things and the story felt like 75% was slow buildup to 2 chapters of climax before everything was just neatly resolved.
Yeah...I think I've grown out of this genre. But that's on me, not the author.
October 8, 2018
I enjoyed this way better than the Hollow trilogy. There was actually kind of a plot in this one? (Even though the ending felt completely rushed, and I was hoping for a bit more romance between our two alternating MCs). Then again, I did enjoy Cyn's character the moment she was introduced in the Hollow trilogy. She was way more interesting than Abbey.
August 15, 2017
This singular companion piece to the too-long and too-dull Hollow Trilogy easily blew all three of those books straight out of the water. This is the story Jessica Verday should have been telling from the beginning, not Abbey and Caspian's schlocky snore-fest.
Read
June 19, 2019I'm upsessed I was so excited to see abbey and Caspian come back it was so fricking good the ending made me cry because it was over but I'm so happy for cyn and avian at least they had a happy ending♡
January 23, 2018
Quick, easy, and entertaining read. But the Hollow trilogy was much better, and I wished this spin off had more Abbey/Caspian in it.
April 15, 2018
It I should a really slow book but I still really liked it. I hope Jessica Verday writes more books that way she can keep her status as one of my favorite authors.
Read
December 6, 2019is this a stand alone book? thanks for the response😀
October 19, 2020
I liked the characters, not as deep as I like but they were likeable. Story was ok and a nice supplement to the trilogy
May 20, 2023
I loved this book.
August 26, 2024
This was a great Pallet cleanser kinda book super fast pased really good story just wish there was a bit more to the story.
January 9, 2014
We are The Unofficial Addiction Book Fan Club, to know more about this book, go to the post in our website:
The Beautiful and the Damned by Jessica Verday
If you are interested, you can visit our website:
The Unofficial Addiction Book Fan Club
The Unofficial Addiction Book Fan Club's Review:
Rating: 3 stars
Review:
The Beautiful and the Damned completely confused me. At first, without reading the synopsis, I was a little lost and didn't understand what was Avian or if there were more like Avian and Cyn and how many types of demons were in this story.
I kept reading it because Cyn's story was pretty intense and interesting. I felt sorry for her for finding her boyfriend brutally murdered to her side, and living with the fear of thinking about the possibility of her being the murderer. I seriously wanted to know what happened to Hunter and if it was really Cyn who murdered him.
She's an Echo. She has the ability to cast spells on me so she can compel them to do whatever she wants. But she's a different Echo, she's not selfish as the others, and only uses her ability to steal cars, and then return them, to feel the adrenaline rush and when its only necessary. But being an Echo also mean being a conduit for souls of the dead. And that means that from time to time, a soul that is not Cyn's soul takes control of her body.
In this story, you also read Avian's point of view. He's half demon, half angel and a revenant. I'm still kind of processing this. He could be categorized as the bad boy in the story and although he's an asshole to Cyn, you know these two have to end up together.
I liked how the author uses the story to "free" Avian. He was tormented by the death of another Echo he fell in love with, and he's described with black winds. But after saving Cyn he's described with white wings. I think those last chapters were my favorite from the book.
And my favorite character in the story? The hellhound. I know. But from what I read, he was in the "good" side, in Cyn and Avian's side, so he earned points and it's described as a dog. I love dogs. I couldn't help but like him. And he also "saves the day". If you read the book, you'll understand why I just say that.
The plot was pretty interesting and had a lot of potential, but as I said at the beginning of the review, I felt a little bit lost during the story and when they explained Cyn and Avian's "world" I still felt like something was missing or that it was not accurate enough. It's not a problem of not understanding what Cyn is or what Avian is (although Avian was difficult to understand what he was), but their surroundings and the other creatures. Because there're more.
The ending was a almost perfect ending. I liked the ending, but I was heart-broken. I am one of those readers who need a happy ending to love the story and even sigh after reading it. Ms. Verday wrote a realistic and almost happy ending, but I was hoping for more conclusion since it's not a series. At least not now. I hope we have more stories about Cyn and Avian. I would definitely read them all!
The Beautiful and the Damned has the perfect title for Cyn and Avian's story. This dark paranormal romance is one of those stories that you enjoy reading if you are a Young Adult addict. I recommend you to enter Ms. Verday's world and read this book.
The Beautiful and the Damned by Jessica Verday
If you are interested, you can visit our website:
The Unofficial Addiction Book Fan Club
The Unofficial Addiction Book Fan Club's Review:
Rating: 3 stars
Review:
The Beautiful and the Damned completely confused me. At first, without reading the synopsis, I was a little lost and didn't understand what was Avian or if there were more like Avian and Cyn and how many types of demons were in this story.
I kept reading it because Cyn's story was pretty intense and interesting. I felt sorry for her for finding her boyfriend brutally murdered to her side, and living with the fear of thinking about the possibility of her being the murderer. I seriously wanted to know what happened to Hunter and if it was really Cyn who murdered him.
She's an Echo. She has the ability to cast spells on me so she can compel them to do whatever she wants. But she's a different Echo, she's not selfish as the others, and only uses her ability to steal cars, and then return them, to feel the adrenaline rush and when its only necessary. But being an Echo also mean being a conduit for souls of the dead. And that means that from time to time, a soul that is not Cyn's soul takes control of her body.
In this story, you also read Avian's point of view. He's half demon, half angel and a revenant. I'm still kind of processing this. He could be categorized as the bad boy in the story and although he's an asshole to Cyn, you know these two have to end up together.
I liked how the author uses the story to "free" Avian. He was tormented by the death of another Echo he fell in love with, and he's described with black winds. But after saving Cyn he's described with white wings. I think those last chapters were my favorite from the book.
And my favorite character in the story? The hellhound. I know. But from what I read, he was in the "good" side, in Cyn and Avian's side, so he earned points and it's described as a dog. I love dogs. I couldn't help but like him. And he also "saves the day". If you read the book, you'll understand why I just say that.
The plot was pretty interesting and had a lot of potential, but as I said at the beginning of the review, I felt a little bit lost during the story and when they explained Cyn and Avian's "world" I still felt like something was missing or that it was not accurate enough. It's not a problem of not understanding what Cyn is or what Avian is (although Avian was difficult to understand what he was), but their surroundings and the other creatures. Because there're more.
The ending was a almost perfect ending. I liked the ending, but I was heart-broken. I am one of those readers who need a happy ending to love the story and even sigh after reading it. Ms. Verday wrote a realistic and almost happy ending, but I was hoping for more conclusion since it's not a series. At least not now. I hope we have more stories about Cyn and Avian. I would definitely read them all!
The Beautiful and the Damned has the perfect title for Cyn and Avian's story. This dark paranormal romance is one of those stories that you enjoy reading if you are a Young Adult addict. I recommend you to enter Ms. Verday's world and read this book.
October 28, 2013
Cyn is on the run from her life right now, starting over with a new identity. If only she wasn't blacking out and losing chunks of time where someone else has control of her body, using it to do horrifying things. What is sharing Cyn's body? And did it cause her to kill her boyfriend Hunter, the love of her life? Maybe with the help of Avian, also known as Thirteen, who is a Revenant and belongs in neither Heaven or Hell. Half angel and half demon, Avian no longer wants to get mixed up with Echoes (people possessed with souls of the deceased, sharing their bodies) and at first avoids Cyn at all costs. But when Father Montgomery, the priest helping them both, is murdered and Cyn gets in over her head he decides to try and bail her out. Is it too late, or can Cyn be saved from the monsters within?
I originally was a pretty large fan of the initial Hollow trilogy. At least until the third book, when I feel like the series completely fell apart. I don't even know why I decided to read this one, seeing as I honestly didn't enjoy numbers 2 or 3 in the last series and its a companion novel. I was intrigued though, so I decided to read it anyways. I was not very impressed to say the least. I felt like while the action kept the plot moving along fairly well, that the world-building didn't allow for newcomers to really understand everything that was happening. I enjoyed the cameo with Abbey and Caspian near the end of the book, when Cyn and Avian head back to Sleepy Hollow but I felt like it was kind of cheesy all the same.
I am not a very big fan of undying, clichéd romantic relationships so I wasn't all that invested in Cyn and Avian's slow burn for each other. I did like that they weren't involved with one another right away though, as insta-love would have been ten times worse. The coolest part of this book was the mystery behind whether or not Cyn was being possessed and what it meant to be an Echo sharing a body with the soul of a Revenant, especially since the Revenant was trying to kill her. I did like Cyn for the most part, but I felt like I didn't get to know her all that well either. This book was kind of short for any in depth character development, or real backstory on what makes her tick. And the conclusion about Avian's dead girlfriend's soul made me roll my eyes. I found myself skimming pages and just trying to get finished. So in the end, all I can really say is that this definitely was NOT the book for me personally. Maybe the whole angel/demon thing would appeal more to someone else and make up for the pretty weak writing in this one.
VERDICT: 2/5 Stars
*I received this book as part of Around the World ARC Tours, run by the lovely Princess Bookie. No favors or money were exchanged for this review. This book was published October 1st, 2013.*
I originally was a pretty large fan of the initial Hollow trilogy. At least until the third book, when I feel like the series completely fell apart. I don't even know why I decided to read this one, seeing as I honestly didn't enjoy numbers 2 or 3 in the last series and its a companion novel. I was intrigued though, so I decided to read it anyways. I was not very impressed to say the least. I felt like while the action kept the plot moving along fairly well, that the world-building didn't allow for newcomers to really understand everything that was happening. I enjoyed the cameo with Abbey and Caspian near the end of the book, when Cyn and Avian head back to Sleepy Hollow but I felt like it was kind of cheesy all the same.
I am not a very big fan of undying, clichéd romantic relationships so I wasn't all that invested in Cyn and Avian's slow burn for each other. I did like that they weren't involved with one another right away though, as insta-love would have been ten times worse. The coolest part of this book was the mystery behind whether or not Cyn was being possessed and what it meant to be an Echo sharing a body with the soul of a Revenant, especially since the Revenant was trying to kill her. I did like Cyn for the most part, but I felt like I didn't get to know her all that well either. This book was kind of short for any in depth character development, or real backstory on what makes her tick. And the conclusion about Avian's dead girlfriend's soul made me roll my eyes. I found myself skimming pages and just trying to get finished. So in the end, all I can really say is that this definitely was NOT the book for me personally. Maybe the whole angel/demon thing would appeal more to someone else and make up for the pretty weak writing in this one.
VERDICT: 2/5 Stars
*I received this book as part of Around the World ARC Tours, run by the lovely Princess Bookie. No favors or money were exchanged for this review. This book was published October 1st, 2013.*
December 28, 2013
Review: Cyn is constantly on the run, between her nighttime job as a waitress, her numerous wigs that she uses for disguises, to the tiny sparse room that she rents, life can’t get any worse. Torn between the visions and scant memories of the night her boyfriend Hunter was murdered, Cyn can’t let her guard down for even a moment, lost in the fact that she doesn’t have full memories of the night her boyfriend was killed. Is she responsible for killing Hunter, or can someone else be blamed for his murder? All Cyn knows is that she woke that night, covered in his blood and that she’s in constant danger of being discovered by Hunter’s brother who is trying to solve the case.
Living in constant fear, doesn’t leave Cyn open to trusting anyone. However, she soon finds herself in a situation where help is desperately needed, forcing her to fall right in the path of the scorned, evasive, and often abrasive, Avian. Not wanting, or looking for his help, she finds that he shows up at the most unlikeliest of times, fortunately for her, it’s the times when trouble seems to find her. Through the unlikeness of events, and the kindness of Father Montgomery, they soon realize that the secrets that threaten them both , just might just be the key to unlock the truth in each other’s life.
Compelling them to try and regretfully work through their differences.
With the many secrets they both hold, Avian knows the truth behind Cyn's memory lapses and why she feels convinced that she is Hunter’s killer.
Being the thirteenth Revenant, Avian has been cast out of both Heaven and Hell, and is doomed to walk the earth searching for his purpose. Making him able to recognize the evil that resides in others, like Cyn an Echo, who is partly possessed by the souls of the dead, leaving her to see reflections of others when she looks in the mirror. What’s even harder than knowing, is Avian deciding if he should tell Cyn the truth about who she is.
With a relationship that can only be described as one filled with tension and angst, these two must find a way to conquer the demons within, or let those very demons kill them in the process.
With gentle resonation of the Hollow Series, Cyn and Avian’s story is a fresh new take on revenants , demons and the evils that can take over one’s life.
Jessica Verday quickly captivates her reading audience, as she so delicately weaves a tale of love, heartache, belonging, and finding help in the most unlikeness of cases. Only reminding fans of her endearing quality as a writer.
you can find more of my reviews and giveaways in my newspaper column For the Love of Books-Dixon's Independent Voice, or the online newspaper: http://dixon.patch.com/blogs/for-the-... / and my horror book reviews in the magazine Dark Discoveries.
Living in constant fear, doesn’t leave Cyn open to trusting anyone. However, she soon finds herself in a situation where help is desperately needed, forcing her to fall right in the path of the scorned, evasive, and often abrasive, Avian. Not wanting, or looking for his help, she finds that he shows up at the most unlikeliest of times, fortunately for her, it’s the times when trouble seems to find her. Through the unlikeness of events, and the kindness of Father Montgomery, they soon realize that the secrets that threaten them both , just might just be the key to unlock the truth in each other’s life.
Compelling them to try and regretfully work through their differences.
With the many secrets they both hold, Avian knows the truth behind Cyn's memory lapses and why she feels convinced that she is Hunter’s killer.
Being the thirteenth Revenant, Avian has been cast out of both Heaven and Hell, and is doomed to walk the earth searching for his purpose. Making him able to recognize the evil that resides in others, like Cyn an Echo, who is partly possessed by the souls of the dead, leaving her to see reflections of others when she looks in the mirror. What’s even harder than knowing, is Avian deciding if he should tell Cyn the truth about who she is.
With a relationship that can only be described as one filled with tension and angst, these two must find a way to conquer the demons within, or let those very demons kill them in the process.
With gentle resonation of the Hollow Series, Cyn and Avian’s story is a fresh new take on revenants , demons and the evils that can take over one’s life.
Jessica Verday quickly captivates her reading audience, as she so delicately weaves a tale of love, heartache, belonging, and finding help in the most unlikeness of cases. Only reminding fans of her endearing quality as a writer.
you can find more of my reviews and giveaways in my newspaper column For the Love of Books-Dixon's Independent Voice, or the online newspaper: http://dixon.patch.com/blogs/for-the-... / and my horror book reviews in the magazine Dark Discoveries.
October 16, 2013
The Beautiful and the Damned
is dark and beautifully damned paranormal romance, that will enchant and ignite your passion for for reading. The first book in a spin-off series to the
Hollow
series, fans of Jessica Verday will absolutely not be disappointed. Cleverly compelling and intriguing, it's filled with dark romance, an unlikely pairing, and more danger than one could hope for. Verday does not disappoint, as she fills the novel full of dark, haunting, and entertaining characters and plot narration. It's chalk full of scary intense moments, mystery, and dark intrigue.
Cyn is different, she's an Echo who doesn't know exactly what she is and Avian, is the one person who does know and tells her. She's been suffering from blackouts that she has no absolute clue about why or what might be causing them. Avian, who has vowed not to help Echos again, sees something in Cyn that he can't shake that causes him to want to help her, it's as if there is a magnetic pull that she has on him. She's a wonderfully tortured and confused character, that I was instantly drawn to and was able to connect with on an emotional level. These terrifying blackouts that she's been having are really starting to take their toll on her and there's this massive confusion that she's having to muddle through that seem to be pulling at her in more ways than one. It's hard not to feel something for her.
Throughout the course of this novel we see Cyn and Avian resisting their attraction to one another and trying to push away from the connection they obviously have. The most terrifying element of this novel, is the idea that someone's body could be hijacked and taken over, possessed. This is where we learn that Echos are conduits for the souls of the deceased and there is a man who is stalking her and wanting revenge for something she may or may not have done. The fact that a soul is wanting out to free itself of her body and the only way to do that is by killing her, raises the tension and the creep factor of this novel to a higher degree.
All in all, I really enjoyed this novel immensely. The realness of the slow developing relationship between Cyn and Avian, the fact that each of them had their own burdens and demons to deal with, and the overall suspense of the novel itself. It had a wonderfully balanced mixture of all things truly evil, with just a touch of humanity to redeem it. Clever and creative, fans of the Hollow series and paranormal romance in general will really enjoy this fast paced, action packed, and wonderfully intensely suspenseful novel.
Cyn is different, she's an Echo who doesn't know exactly what she is and Avian, is the one person who does know and tells her. She's been suffering from blackouts that she has no absolute clue about why or what might be causing them. Avian, who has vowed not to help Echos again, sees something in Cyn that he can't shake that causes him to want to help her, it's as if there is a magnetic pull that she has on him. She's a wonderfully tortured and confused character, that I was instantly drawn to and was able to connect with on an emotional level. These terrifying blackouts that she's been having are really starting to take their toll on her and there's this massive confusion that she's having to muddle through that seem to be pulling at her in more ways than one. It's hard not to feel something for her.
Throughout the course of this novel we see Cyn and Avian resisting their attraction to one another and trying to push away from the connection they obviously have. The most terrifying element of this novel, is the idea that someone's body could be hijacked and taken over, possessed. This is where we learn that Echos are conduits for the souls of the deceased and there is a man who is stalking her and wanting revenge for something she may or may not have done. The fact that a soul is wanting out to free itself of her body and the only way to do that is by killing her, raises the tension and the creep factor of this novel to a higher degree.
All in all, I really enjoyed this novel immensely. The realness of the slow developing relationship between Cyn and Avian, the fact that each of them had their own burdens and demons to deal with, and the overall suspense of the novel itself. It had a wonderfully balanced mixture of all things truly evil, with just a touch of humanity to redeem it. Clever and creative, fans of the Hollow series and paranormal romance in general will really enjoy this fast paced, action packed, and wonderfully intensely suspenseful novel.
October 16, 2013
MY THOUGHTS
LOVED IT
Growing up, Cyn has always seen faces in the mirror other than her own. Now sixteen, she has started blacking out, not remembering anything about her lost time. When she wakes up covered in her boyfriend's blood and convinced she murdered him, she panics and runs from Sleepy Hallow to a small town in New York. Cyn finds that she can make people bend to her wishes and make them do anything for her without them remembering. She coerces people to "loan" her cars, give her larger tips at her waitress job and supply her with alcohol and cigarettes when she needs. Then she wanders into a bar and has no luck at all with the staff. She also sees that the some of the guys there are not at all human. And these guys recognize her for what she is: an Echo, someone who has souls of those not ready to pass on using her body much like a parasite.
At the bar, she meets Avian, a Revenant, born of a demon and angel and wanted by neither heaven nor hell. He lives with a priest, who sees the good in him and gives him support as he seeks to take care of those the angels and demons won't go against like vampires. Avian doesn't actually like her since he knows that she is trouble, but is drawn to Cyn anyway and wants to protect her. He knows she is possessed by an evil spirit named Vincent and their goal is to get the guy to leave her alone. In the meantime, her dead boyfriend's brother comes looking for her to settle the score, thinking she did indeed murder him. The ex-cop soon becomes her worst nightmare.
As the story progresses, you really feel Cyn's pain and you will find yourself cheering for her as she tries to rid herself of this demon and have some peace. I stayed up super late since I was so intrigued by this story. It was very suspenseful and creepy at the same along with enough mystery about Cyn's actually participation in her boyfriend's murder and her "lost time". Having read the Hollows ages ago, I have forgotten the characters, so I read this one with no remembrance of Cyn. Parents: this one is best suited for teens since there is alcohol and some violence involved.
This song pretty much sums up this book: Monsters by The Filthy Souls
https://soundcloud.com/thefilthysouls...
LOVED IT
Growing up, Cyn has always seen faces in the mirror other than her own. Now sixteen, she has started blacking out, not remembering anything about her lost time. When she wakes up covered in her boyfriend's blood and convinced she murdered him, she panics and runs from Sleepy Hallow to a small town in New York. Cyn finds that she can make people bend to her wishes and make them do anything for her without them remembering. She coerces people to "loan" her cars, give her larger tips at her waitress job and supply her with alcohol and cigarettes when she needs. Then she wanders into a bar and has no luck at all with the staff. She also sees that the some of the guys there are not at all human. And these guys recognize her for what she is: an Echo, someone who has souls of those not ready to pass on using her body much like a parasite.
At the bar, she meets Avian, a Revenant, born of a demon and angel and wanted by neither heaven nor hell. He lives with a priest, who sees the good in him and gives him support as he seeks to take care of those the angels and demons won't go against like vampires. Avian doesn't actually like her since he knows that she is trouble, but is drawn to Cyn anyway and wants to protect her. He knows she is possessed by an evil spirit named Vincent and their goal is to get the guy to leave her alone. In the meantime, her dead boyfriend's brother comes looking for her to settle the score, thinking she did indeed murder him. The ex-cop soon becomes her worst nightmare.
As the story progresses, you really feel Cyn's pain and you will find yourself cheering for her as she tries to rid herself of this demon and have some peace. I stayed up super late since I was so intrigued by this story. It was very suspenseful and creepy at the same along with enough mystery about Cyn's actually participation in her boyfriend's murder and her "lost time". Having read the Hollows ages ago, I have forgotten the characters, so I read this one with no remembrance of Cyn. Parents: this one is best suited for teens since there is alcohol and some violence involved.
This song pretty much sums up this book: Monsters by The Filthy Souls
https://soundcloud.com/thefilthysouls...
June 26, 2016
So I did like this book because Verday is a great writer who keeps me hooked, but this book fell flat for me. Now the book was very creative which I enjoyed. Each character had something unique about them and a story. The book had great characters and I liked them all for different reasons. I loved Cyn because she was so strong and badass. She constantly blamed herself for things out of her control. But she was still so independent and didn't need anyone. Thirteen was pretty much the same, but more stubborn than Cyn. There was a growing attraction between them, but I feel like the kiss they shared happened too soon. There wasn't much of a romance between them anyway which made me confused about the book. In the summary it said it was supposed to be sexy, but it's not. It's more of a thriller/horror/parnormal book to me. Cyn and Thirteen shared one kiss throughout the book and that was it. They had little moments here and there, but even at the end of the book nothing was said about what became of Thirteen really. I know she turned down her former lover and went with Thirteen, but does that mean that she's by herself or are she and Thirteen together. Seems like a cliffhanger. But if she's by herself I'm cool with that as well, I just want to know. I felt like the end of the book was rushed. Everything happened kinda quickly and her boyfriend who she thought was dead all of a sudden ISN'T DEAD! What the fuck? He explains everything and expects her to come riding off into the sunset with him, but actually a big surprise. NOPE! Cyn realized that Hunter was a huge liar who made her life a living hell. That was a great twist and not what I expected at all. That was a huge plus for me. Cyn went months and months grieving over this guy who played with her heart and she twisted his heart right back. I really loved Cyn and I was so happy to hear from Abbey and Caspian from the Hollow trilogy! Not so much Vincent of course. I was surprised to see him back. But anyway this was a good and quick read. I just felt that it was a bit rushed at the end and that the romance wasn't really there.
December 21, 2014
After reading the book “The Beautiful and the Damned”, I had mixed feelings on how I felt about it. But, I would have to rate it a 4 out of 5 stars.
At the beginning, it is kind of hard to follow the plot and the book moves really slowly. This is not the genre of book I would typically choose, as I have never really liked books that involved supernatural or horror themes such demons or souls being moved between bodies. Nonetheless, I continued reading and once I got about halfway through this book, I was hooked.
Readers are introduced to a girl named Cyn Hargave, who seems like an ordinary person, but I’ll let you judge how ordinary she really is. Cyn is an extremely tough young girl, who has fought off a lot of trouble, but will encounter much more. Her random blackouts are destroying her life, and causing her to run from everything she ever knew. These blackouts cause Cyn to question everyone around her as well as herself. Leaving Sleepy Hollow because of her boyfriend’s murder, Cyn then meets a cop who doesn’t seem to leave her alone. His suspicion of her causes Cyn to question her own innocence and what the future might hold for her.
After meeting Avian, a half-angel, half-demon, Cyn begins to learn what is really going on inside her and what she can do to control it. Cyn is fortunate that Avian feels compelled to help her, as he is ultimately the reason Cyn survives and completely rids herself of the demon soul that has been plaguing her for years.
I will be honest and say that after getting about 30 pages in, I did not think I would enjoy this book. But, I actually really liked this book and I am considering reading Jessica Verday’s trilogy “The Hollow”, which this book is a companion to. Contrary to my initial opinion, I think that Jessica Verday wrote the plot of “The Beautiful and the Damned” very well. I am pleased that I stayed the course, and finished the book. I had the pleasure of getting to know the strong character Cyn Hargrave, and gaining an appreciation for a new genre of young adult novels.
At the beginning, it is kind of hard to follow the plot and the book moves really slowly. This is not the genre of book I would typically choose, as I have never really liked books that involved supernatural or horror themes such demons or souls being moved between bodies. Nonetheless, I continued reading and once I got about halfway through this book, I was hooked.
Readers are introduced to a girl named Cyn Hargave, who seems like an ordinary person, but I’ll let you judge how ordinary she really is. Cyn is an extremely tough young girl, who has fought off a lot of trouble, but will encounter much more. Her random blackouts are destroying her life, and causing her to run from everything she ever knew. These blackouts cause Cyn to question everyone around her as well as herself. Leaving Sleepy Hollow because of her boyfriend’s murder, Cyn then meets a cop who doesn’t seem to leave her alone. His suspicion of her causes Cyn to question her own innocence and what the future might hold for her.
After meeting Avian, a half-angel, half-demon, Cyn begins to learn what is really going on inside her and what she can do to control it. Cyn is fortunate that Avian feels compelled to help her, as he is ultimately the reason Cyn survives and completely rids herself of the demon soul that has been plaguing her for years.
I will be honest and say that after getting about 30 pages in, I did not think I would enjoy this book. But, I actually really liked this book and I am considering reading Jessica Verday’s trilogy “The Hollow”, which this book is a companion to. Contrary to my initial opinion, I think that Jessica Verday wrote the plot of “The Beautiful and the Damned” very well. I am pleased that I stayed the course, and finished the book. I had the pleasure of getting to know the strong character Cyn Hargrave, and gaining an appreciation for a new genre of young adult novels.
January 16, 2016
I recommend reviewing what happened in the Hollow series before reading this. I completely forgot who Cyn was and what characters were what. You do eventually find out, but it’s nice to refresh you memory. I loved the Hollow series, so I was excited when I found out about this spin-off. I was hoping that it would be set in Sleepy Hollow, but most of it was set in Hampton Falls, New Hampshire. I don’t think I ever read a book set in New Hampshire, and this book didn’t really describe the setting much. The opening of the book was Cyn working at a diner as a waitress.
We also get to meet Avian a.k.a. Thirteen. He’s half demon, half angel and also a revenant. I love book with angels in them. I loved the part when Cyn found out he had wings and when she made a comment about how it would be impolite to touch them. We find out early on the Cyn is a Echo, and she’s constantly getting possessed by souls, and now Vincent, who we met in the Hollow also, is inside her. Cyn’s memories of Sleepy Hollow are foggy, but she vaguely remembers Abbey. Cyn’s on the run because she killed her boyfriend Hunter and now a cop whose Hunter’s brother is after her.
The story is a really fast paced, short read. You could easily read it in one sitting because the lines on the paging have a very open leading. This book make a great companion to the Hollow trilogy and is does it justice. We get to meet other paranormal creatures, including Hellhounds and vampires.
It’s really awesome, and if you enjoyed The Hollow, you’ll love this. Also, if you’re a fan of the Sleepy Hollow TV show, you should read the whole series. I wondering if there’ll be anymore spin-off, but it works well as a standalone. I can’t wait to read whatever Jessica Verday is writing next.
Cover Art Review: It fit with the Hollow series. I like the wings and the embossment of the gold edges.
~Haley G
My blog:
http://breathlessbookreviews.blogspot...
We also get to meet Avian a.k.a. Thirteen. He’s half demon, half angel and also a revenant. I love book with angels in them. I loved the part when Cyn found out he had wings and when she made a comment about how it would be impolite to touch them. We find out early on the Cyn is a Echo, and she’s constantly getting possessed by souls, and now Vincent, who we met in the Hollow also, is inside her. Cyn’s memories of Sleepy Hollow are foggy, but she vaguely remembers Abbey. Cyn’s on the run because she killed her boyfriend Hunter and now a cop whose Hunter’s brother is after her.
The story is a really fast paced, short read. You could easily read it in one sitting because the lines on the paging have a very open leading. This book make a great companion to the Hollow trilogy and is does it justice. We get to meet other paranormal creatures, including Hellhounds and vampires.
It’s really awesome, and if you enjoyed The Hollow, you’ll love this. Also, if you’re a fan of the Sleepy Hollow TV show, you should read the whole series. I wondering if there’ll be anymore spin-off, but it works well as a standalone. I can’t wait to read whatever Jessica Verday is writing next.
Cover Art Review: It fit with the Hollow series. I like the wings and the embossment of the gold edges.
~Haley G
My blog:
http://breathlessbookreviews.blogspot...
September 17, 2013
Short and Sweet:
First of all, I have not read The Hollow trilogy, so my review might not be as gushy as it would have been if I saw the connections between The Beautiful and the Damned and this beloved series as this is a companion novel. However, I did enjoy this story quite a bit. Cyn was an extremely intriguing character, as was Avian and the story itself was well developed and entertaining.
To Elaborate....
Cyn isn't sure what's going on, but lately her blackouts and episodes have been increasing in frequency. When she looks in the mirror she sees another person's face overlaying her own and she's never quite sure where she's been or what she's been up to... only that it is likely to be horrifying as her hands are often covered in blood.
Avian, however, knows exactly what is going on with Cyn the moment he lays eyes on her. She's an Echo, partially possessed by souls of the deceased: currently by a man who frequently takes control of her body to wreak havoc. This soul wants out of Cyn and there is only one way to reach that goal.... ending her life.
Meanwhile, Cyn is also being hunted/stalked by another man desperately seeking revenge for something Cyn may or may not have done while possessed. Something nightmarish and heartbreaking that Cyn is tortured by daily.
Avian swore to himself he was done with Echos, but sees something in Cyn that he didn't expect and he initially struggles with the decision to help her. Both Cyn and Avian resist their attraction to each other and pull away from their connection. However, when it becomes clear that Cyn is in way over her head they plan one last desparate attempt to free her from the monster inside.
The Beautiful and the Damned is a quick entertaining read. There is this great tension between Cyn and Avian and plenty of suspense and surprises to keep this story exciting right up until the very end!
3.5 stars!
(Originally posted at iheartyafiction.blogspot.com)
First of all, I have not read The Hollow trilogy, so my review might not be as gushy as it would have been if I saw the connections between The Beautiful and the Damned and this beloved series as this is a companion novel. However, I did enjoy this story quite a bit. Cyn was an extremely intriguing character, as was Avian and the story itself was well developed and entertaining.
To Elaborate....
Cyn isn't sure what's going on, but lately her blackouts and episodes have been increasing in frequency. When she looks in the mirror she sees another person's face overlaying her own and she's never quite sure where she's been or what she's been up to... only that it is likely to be horrifying as her hands are often covered in blood.
Avian, however, knows exactly what is going on with Cyn the moment he lays eyes on her. She's an Echo, partially possessed by souls of the deceased: currently by a man who frequently takes control of her body to wreak havoc. This soul wants out of Cyn and there is only one way to reach that goal.... ending her life.
Meanwhile, Cyn is also being hunted/stalked by another man desperately seeking revenge for something Cyn may or may not have done while possessed. Something nightmarish and heartbreaking that Cyn is tortured by daily.
Avian swore to himself he was done with Echos, but sees something in Cyn that he didn't expect and he initially struggles with the decision to help her. Both Cyn and Avian resist their attraction to each other and pull away from their connection. However, when it becomes clear that Cyn is in way over her head they plan one last desparate attempt to free her from the monster inside.
The Beautiful and the Damned is a quick entertaining read. There is this great tension between Cyn and Avian and plenty of suspense and surprises to keep this story exciting right up until the very end!
3.5 stars!
(Originally posted at iheartyafiction.blogspot.com)
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