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A Shadow of Wings
Thrown out on the street by his homophobic stepfather, Dylan struggles to get his life together. Years of being used and abused have left him tough and determined to make it on his own. When he sees a dog getting beaten, his protective instincts drive him to rescue her. But as the attackers turn on Dylan, out of the shadows comes a hero. One with mysterious eyes and a shy sensuality Dylan can’t resist.
Cam Coburn can’t reveal his true identity to the man he rescues. Nor can he reveal that he’s a freak among freaks, a cockatrice shifter with an unwanted gift for seeking out conflict rather than treasure. Newly independent from his mentor, Cam sees in Dylan his first chance to test the limits of his human guise. Defying every rule, Cam succumbs to Dylan’s seduction for just one night. But Cam finds he can’t let his lover go, and Dylan breaks down every barrier. For he is the one human who can gaze in a cockatrice’s eyes without fear.
Yet even as their bond deepens, danger closes in on them from all sides, and Cam’s dark secrets may save them—or lead to their destruction.
Cam Coburn can’t reveal his true identity to the man he rescues. Nor can he reveal that he’s a freak among freaks, a cockatrice shifter with an unwanted gift for seeking out conflict rather than treasure. Newly independent from his mentor, Cam sees in Dylan his first chance to test the limits of his human guise. Defying every rule, Cam succumbs to Dylan’s seduction for just one night. But Cam finds he can’t let his lover go, and Dylan breaks down every barrier. For he is the one human who can gaze in a cockatrice’s eyes without fear.
Yet even as their bond deepens, danger closes in on them from all sides, and Cam’s dark secrets may save them—or lead to their destruction.
242 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 17, 2013
20 people are currently reading
546 people want to read
About the author
Linda Gayle
9 books42 followersLinda Gayle is the wild soul and pseudonym of a mild-mannered English major who loves exploring strange new worlds and fascinating characters. A pacifist vegetarian, she nevertheless loves reading (and writing) intense, blood-and-guts filled action stories spiced with love, sex and romance—the stuff of fantasy and nightmare combined. She lives in New England with her husband, two children and many, many pets. She looks forward to hearing from fans and can be reached via her Web site, http://www.lindagaylebooks.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
March 16, 2013
Yet another entertaining and unique m/m shifter romance this year. These authors are on fire! I wasn't going to read this book because... you know... Cockatrice shifter?? I was picturing some twee Siren publishing erotica story about a parrot but it's nothing like that at all. This is about struggling ex-addict Dylan and the mysterious and innocent young man that saves his life one night. The characterisation of these two guys is beautiful. I could feel their youth and vulnerability and I was caught up in the seemingly insurmountable obstacles that faced their love.
The paranormal element is intriguing and dark although the ending did verge on bizarre . But the author was able to keep control of the more fantastical elements and I remained believing and engrossed throughout. The ending did feel a little rushed. I think the ramifications for the Church and other Trices was too off-page for me to feel that whole situation is resolved although perhaps (hopefully!) there will be more stories in this 'verse.
I have to praise the progress of the love affair and the sex scenes in this book. The whole relationship between Dylan and Cam is thick with passion and sensuality.
I noticed that this author has co-authored a book with author Summer Devon who released the fab Taming the Bander this year. That must be a fun writing group to belong to. They are so imaginative. A Shadow of Wings is a great example of the continued exciting new stories coming from the self publishing arena. It's a good length (3625 locations on my kindle) and amazing value at $2.99.
The paranormal element is intriguing and dark although the ending did verge on bizarre . But the author was able to keep control of the more fantastical elements and I remained believing and engrossed throughout. The ending did feel a little rushed. I think the ramifications for the Church and other Trices was too off-page for me to feel that whole situation is resolved although perhaps (hopefully!) there will be more stories in this 'verse.
I have to praise the progress of the love affair and the sex scenes in this book. The whole relationship between Dylan and Cam is thick with passion and sensuality.
I noticed that this author has co-authored a book with author Summer Devon who released the fab Taming the Bander this year. That must be a fun writing group to belong to. They are so imaginative. A Shadow of Wings is a great example of the continued exciting new stories coming from the self publishing arena. It's a good length (3625 locations on my kindle) and amazing value at $2.99.
November 13, 2013
3 Stars - a pretty sweet tale about first love, lust, strange creatures and to meet someone who cares
A Shadow of Wings is a quite short novel (around 165 pages) - I got for a single dollar - that is absolutely worth a few hours reading, especially if you like M/M romances in a youthful NA genre with some paranormal elements. This was one of those books you read that is neither particularly overwhelming or totally unimaginative and dull. Quite okay. Not something I will remember for ever but nice and entertaining...
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
It started really well but I must admit that I got a little confused at the end (last 20%). Not that it didn't hold a good and reasonably fast pace but more because it maybe lost some credibility... ~ but this is a completely fictional paranormal story and nothing else so I swallowed and accepted most of it.
The MC's,Dylan and Cam, are just over 20 and are both amiable, quite shy and unsure of themselves, but quick-witted, gorgeous and very much two young & horny guys.
...But most of all, so very cute and tender to each other. Which made this so very sweet without ever becoming sticky or silly.
The most surprising is perhaps that one of them (Cam) is a Cockatrice shifter (here's a pic if you've never seen any ). Cam also has an ability to feel that someone nearby is endangered and that is how these two boys meet for the first time when Dylan tries to protect a stray dog and becomes down-kicked by some mean guys. Cam intervenes and jointly these two guys try to save the poor dog (Gertie) and becomes friends.
In large part is A Shadow of Wings mostly a very sweet "youthful" romance. It's a story about, as so often, to getting laid (as in a lot of romances...), to be cared for and to meet the big true love in your life. On the side there is a shifter story with a few less dangerous suspense events.
The paranormal element was there (mostly at the end - last 20%) but in a quite nice and, I think, some new way. To be a PNR book, I feel that this one had a lot of new elements and everything wasn't predictable or old and out of fashion. ~ Surprisingly good in many part.
I also felt that it was somewhat new and fresh that it actually wasn't the guy with the shifter ability that had most alpha male tendencies of the two - but almostthe opposite.
Overall a pretty dialogue rich story with a lot of sweet and tender steam & heat and some strange creatures. The majority of this story were told with the two main characters in the same place or in the same room - which I in this case really liked.
I giggled, was both surprised and startled a few times, really liked the MC's and I enjoyed most of it a great deal...
~ and now I move on to new reading adventures.
I LIKE - a very cute paranormal NA story
A Shadow of Wings is a quite short novel (around 165 pages) - I got for a single dollar - that is absolutely worth a few hours reading, especially if you like M/M romances in a youthful NA genre with some paranormal elements. This was one of those books you read that is neither particularly overwhelming or totally unimaginative and dull. Quite okay. Not something I will remember for ever but nice and entertaining...
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
It started really well but I must admit that I got a little confused at the end (last 20%). Not that it didn't hold a good and reasonably fast pace but more because it maybe lost some credibility... ~ but this is a completely fictional paranormal story and nothing else so I swallowed and accepted most of it.
The MC's,Dylan and Cam, are just over 20 and are both amiable, quite shy and unsure of themselves, but quick-witted, gorgeous and very much two young & horny guys.
...But most of all, so very cute and tender to each other. Which made this so very sweet without ever becoming sticky or silly.
The most surprising is perhaps that one of them (Cam) is a Cockatrice shifter (here's a pic if you've never seen any ). Cam also has an ability to feel that someone nearby is endangered and that is how these two boys meet for the first time when Dylan tries to protect a stray dog and becomes down-kicked by some mean guys. Cam intervenes and jointly these two guys try to save the poor dog (Gertie) and becomes friends.
In large part is A Shadow of Wings mostly a very sweet "youthful" romance. It's a story about, as so often, to getting laid (as in a lot of romances...), to be cared for and to meet the big true love in your life. On the side there is a shifter story with a few less dangerous suspense events.
The paranormal element was there (mostly at the end - last 20%) but in a quite nice and, I think, some new way. To be a PNR book, I feel that this one had a lot of new elements and everything wasn't predictable or old and out of fashion. ~ Surprisingly good in many part.
I also felt that it was somewhat new and fresh that it actually wasn't the guy with the shifter ability that had most alpha male tendencies of the two - but almostthe opposite.
“I just want everything to go away. Everything but you and me.”
Overall a pretty dialogue rich story with a lot of sweet and tender steam & heat and some strange creatures. The majority of this story were told with the two main characters in the same place or in the same room - which I in this case really liked.
I giggled, was both surprised and startled a few times, really liked the MC's and I enjoyed most of it a great deal...
~ and now I move on to new reading adventures.
I LIKE - a very cute paranormal NA story
March 17, 2013
4.33 stars
Interesting paranormal romance with cockatrices (similar to basilisks—with wings—here congeneric to dragons) as non-humans: sequel(s) definitely wanted.
Remark regarding the blurb:
Although it’s not entirely wrong to classify the cockatrices as shifters—I wouldn’t: their human form/guise is not an inherent gift/ability .
See also Mandy M’s review.
P.S.
Uhhh...little warning for people with a term of endearment pet peeve regarding “baby” (37 times used).
Interesting paranormal romance with cockatrices (similar to basilisks—with wings—here congeneric to dragons) as non-humans: sequel(s) definitely wanted.
Remark regarding the blurb:
Although it’s not entirely wrong to classify the cockatrices as shifters—I wouldn’t: their human form/guise is not an inherent gift/ability .
See also Mandy M’s review.
P.S.
Uhhh...little warning for people with a term of endearment pet peeve regarding “baby” (37 times used).
November 6, 2013
3.5 stars
Well, that was different. Good, but still different. I enjoyed this very unique story about Cam and Dylan and their fight for each other. Dylan was quirky and funny and Cam was completely adorable. I don’t want to say too much because of spoilers so I’ll just say this. I would like to read more. The conclusion to the story was left open ended and invites a sequel which I hope will be out soon. I am intrigued.
February 28, 2013
4.5 Hearts
Review written for MM Good Book Reviews
http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com/
Oh My God!!!
Yes, I’m excited and I can’t praise this book enough to my satisfaction. Some people simply have both talent and the ability to put that talent down and swipe you away in their beautiful, gorgeous, astonishing world of imagination. And no, don’t be mistaken to think that this story is place somewhere exotic, like a different world or another planet… It’s on Earth and in our times and yes there is the Church involved. Can’t help it, I’m a sucker for hidden groups that are Church/Conspiracy related, and when you throw in the mythical creatures that are bred in secrecy to be used for the High Power and a couple of hot guys, and I’m bound to melt on your feet.
Meet Cameron; oh my God what a character. He is a Cockatrice, a mythical creature whose species nearly got extinct along with the dragons centuries ago. Now his species is being bred by a secret brotherhood in the name of the God. Cam’s true form is a bit like a cock, a bit like a snake and a bit like bat (it’s his wings). However that form is subdued by a gold chain which allows him and his species to maintain their human form. Sheltered from humanity and literally not allowed to come into contact with humans, Cam feels like something is wrong with him. He is different from his kind, he feels compassion for humans and he has a special calling that urges him to help helpless people. And like this he bumps onto Dylan.
Meet Dylan; a throwaway. He never felt loved or cared. He lived on the streets and was in the wrong relationship that used and abused him. But he’s a stubborn man and doesn’t like to give up, or lose that one thing in him he holds precious, his humanity. It is like that that he throws himself in front of a boot that was aimed to a poor dog. It’s like that that he got nearly beaten to a pulp. And it’s like that he meets Cam, when his knight in shining armor steps in and beats his bullies away.
Cameron should have left after that and never thought it twice. He’s not supposed to contact humans and especially without his glasses. His eyes can kill yet he’s drawn to that man like the moth toward light. Dylan can’t fight the attraction either. This shy man that won’t meet his eyes call to him in strange ways, and when he finally looks him in the eyes the warmest feeling curses through his body.
Oh my God, again and again. This book is bloody fantastic. It got me from page one, from first paragraph and didn’t let me go till it ended. What a story, what a great plot and what amazing characters. I loved, loved, loved Cameron. I loved both his forms; I loved his incredible, submissive character; I loved his need to be loved and to do whatever it took to feel that feeling. But I adored Dylan; the flawed human, what some would call a lowlife. What a brilliant idea from this author to have the hero be a shabby guy nearly in the lowest step of human form. And how fantastic it was to see him rise and shine, fight for what he felt even before he knew what the heck that was. It might have been Cameron who saved his life, but damn, it was Dylan the true knight in this fantastic story.
And saying this was also one hot story, with some very heated scenes, would be the understatement of the year. Damn it, that pair of men had chemistry all over the place and you can feel it run into you while reading it. I loved how the author made it happen between them, the before and the after. Brilliant work indeed, and if there isn’t going to be a sequel for this I’m gonna be really, really disappointed. The end was a bit rushed in my opinion and while it was satisfactory, there were some questions left behind unanswered. The whole what happened to the order, what with the new species and what with the shadowy demons…
Anyway, back to this book; you’ll love it. It has action, suspense, mythical creatures, conspiracy, hot guys and an epic love story. What more do you want?
Strongly recommended!
Thommie!
Review written for MM Good Book Reviews
http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com/
Oh My God!!!
Yes, I’m excited and I can’t praise this book enough to my satisfaction. Some people simply have both talent and the ability to put that talent down and swipe you away in their beautiful, gorgeous, astonishing world of imagination. And no, don’t be mistaken to think that this story is place somewhere exotic, like a different world or another planet… It’s on Earth and in our times and yes there is the Church involved. Can’t help it, I’m a sucker for hidden groups that are Church/Conspiracy related, and when you throw in the mythical creatures that are bred in secrecy to be used for the High Power and a couple of hot guys, and I’m bound to melt on your feet.
Meet Cameron; oh my God what a character. He is a Cockatrice, a mythical creature whose species nearly got extinct along with the dragons centuries ago. Now his species is being bred by a secret brotherhood in the name of the God. Cam’s true form is a bit like a cock, a bit like a snake and a bit like bat (it’s his wings). However that form is subdued by a gold chain which allows him and his species to maintain their human form. Sheltered from humanity and literally not allowed to come into contact with humans, Cam feels like something is wrong with him. He is different from his kind, he feels compassion for humans and he has a special calling that urges him to help helpless people. And like this he bumps onto Dylan.
Meet Dylan; a throwaway. He never felt loved or cared. He lived on the streets and was in the wrong relationship that used and abused him. But he’s a stubborn man and doesn’t like to give up, or lose that one thing in him he holds precious, his humanity. It is like that that he throws himself in front of a boot that was aimed to a poor dog. It’s like that that he got nearly beaten to a pulp. And it’s like that he meets Cam, when his knight in shining armor steps in and beats his bullies away.
Cameron should have left after that and never thought it twice. He’s not supposed to contact humans and especially without his glasses. His eyes can kill yet he’s drawn to that man like the moth toward light. Dylan can’t fight the attraction either. This shy man that won’t meet his eyes call to him in strange ways, and when he finally looks him in the eyes the warmest feeling curses through his body.
Oh my God, again and again. This book is bloody fantastic. It got me from page one, from first paragraph and didn’t let me go till it ended. What a story, what a great plot and what amazing characters. I loved, loved, loved Cameron. I loved both his forms; I loved his incredible, submissive character; I loved his need to be loved and to do whatever it took to feel that feeling. But I adored Dylan; the flawed human, what some would call a lowlife. What a brilliant idea from this author to have the hero be a shabby guy nearly in the lowest step of human form. And how fantastic it was to see him rise and shine, fight for what he felt even before he knew what the heck that was. It might have been Cameron who saved his life, but damn, it was Dylan the true knight in this fantastic story.
And saying this was also one hot story, with some very heated scenes, would be the understatement of the year. Damn it, that pair of men had chemistry all over the place and you can feel it run into you while reading it. I loved how the author made it happen between them, the before and the after. Brilliant work indeed, and if there isn’t going to be a sequel for this I’m gonna be really, really disappointed. The end was a bit rushed in my opinion and while it was satisfactory, there were some questions left behind unanswered. The whole what happened to the order, what with the new species and what with the shadowy demons…
Anyway, back to this book; you’ll love it. It has action, suspense, mythical creatures, conspiracy, hot guys and an epic love story. What more do you want?
Strongly recommended!
Thommie!
November 29, 2013
$0.99 at ARe so I went for it.
Ok, I admit it, I had to google what a Cockatrice looks like, and I give the author brownie points for using a shifter ( and a very different take on when/how they can shift and what their true 'nature' is.)
This one left me with the feeling I was reading a Dan Brown type story. There are ancient secret societies, religious groupings and undertones using their power and influence to amass power and influence and wealth. Internal conflict among the group and betrayal.
I sort of wish it had been longer and more detailed, I liked the 'world' and would have loved to have more information about a lot of things.
Cam has secrets and even among his kind he's different, Dylan has had a rough background but he is not a quitter and he is going to make it, and he is a good guy.
The mate-issue and why Dylan was capable of doing certain things that normally aren't possible weren't really explained, on the other hand, it seems none of the players knew the whys and how's either so I guess it's ok that it was left a bit of a mystery.
I liked shy and reserved Cam and was glad Dylan was able to show him a different kind of life and even Tash turned around a bit.
I really think this story needs another book, I want to see how things continue for this bunch.
Ok, I admit it, I had to google what a Cockatrice looks like, and I give the author brownie points for using a shifter ( and a very different take on when/how they can shift and what their true 'nature' is.)
This one left me with the feeling I was reading a Dan Brown type story. There are ancient secret societies, religious groupings and undertones using their power and influence to amass power and influence and wealth. Internal conflict among the group and betrayal.
I sort of wish it had been longer and more detailed, I liked the 'world' and would have loved to have more information about a lot of things.
Cam has secrets and even among his kind he's different, Dylan has had a rough background but he is not a quitter and he is going to make it, and he is a good guy.
The mate-issue and why Dylan was capable of doing certain things that normally aren't possible weren't really explained, on the other hand, it seems none of the players knew the whys and how's either so I guess it's ok that it was left a bit of a mystery.
I liked shy and reserved Cam and was glad Dylan was able to show him a different kind of life and even Tash turned around a bit.
I really think this story needs another book, I want to see how things continue for this bunch.
September 13, 2016
Huh... Well, that was different. Definitely an unusual shifter story that, for the most part, I enjoyed. An imaginative storyline that kept me engaged, but was also peppered with cheesy dialogue, some melodrama, and too much telling, not enough showing.
It was an odd reading experience for me. Parts of the story had me hooked, unwilling to put my reader down, and other parts had me putting it down and not wanting to pick it back up. I finished it, though, which says a lot.
It was an odd reading experience for me. Parts of the story had me hooked, unwilling to put my reader down, and other parts had me putting it down and not wanting to pick it back up. I finished it, though, which says a lot.
March 24, 2013
Quite frequently, I check the Amazon Top 100 Gay Books for paranormal-type novels by new authors. As I’ll explain next month in a post on Jessewave, “Why I Love Shifters," I need to read at least one paranormal book a week or I go into withdrawal.
So, imagine my surprise when a new shifter book knocks my socks off! A Shadow of Wings starts out as your typical shifter novel but quickly morphs into a deeply emotional against-all-odds love story that touched me on many levels. Dylan has had a rough life. Thrown out of his house for being gay, he turns to selling himself to survive, add in one bad boyfriend, a drug habit and it’s a wonder he’s still alive. However, he’s gotten himself clean and is working at a vet’s office cleaning animal cages when he’s attacked, then saved by the mysterious Cam. Yes, yes, we’ve all read this scenario before in m/m romance books, but the difference is Cam. He’s not just any guy, nor a guy who happens to be a shifter. His whole life has been lived in the shadows, never growing close to anyone and when Dylan breaks down those walls, Cam opens up into this beautiful character, who just happens to be a cockatrice shifter.
Yep, you read that right. A cockatrice shifter. No werewolves to be seen in this book! Enter in some amazing world building; namely a secret order of blind priests who have been procreating this species to fight evil for centuries, bad guys who are weasels, and a very interesting twist to the plot that I saw coming, but still surprised me because it was so cool and you have read it to believe it! The unusual twist fit perfectly into the plot because it explained so much of the history of the cockatrice in the world.
But what I loved most was Cam and Dylan’s relationship. Dylan is no fragile flower and when he finds out Cam’s true nature, he’s grossed out, yet turned on. Dylan is a gem. He’s no damsel who needs saving and I think it is his unrelenting nature that drives the plot and love story.
Since I read so many paranormal books, it takes a lot to surprise me and A Shadow of Wings did just that. It is my favorite paranormal m/m book I’ve read so far this year. Ms. Gayle’s writing style is crisp, original and sensual. I am very excited about this series and cannot wait for book two.
Highly recommended.
Reviews by Jessewave
So, imagine my surprise when a new shifter book knocks my socks off! A Shadow of Wings starts out as your typical shifter novel but quickly morphs into a deeply emotional against-all-odds love story that touched me on many levels. Dylan has had a rough life. Thrown out of his house for being gay, he turns to selling himself to survive, add in one bad boyfriend, a drug habit and it’s a wonder he’s still alive. However, he’s gotten himself clean and is working at a vet’s office cleaning animal cages when he’s attacked, then saved by the mysterious Cam. Yes, yes, we’ve all read this scenario before in m/m romance books, but the difference is Cam. He’s not just any guy, nor a guy who happens to be a shifter. His whole life has been lived in the shadows, never growing close to anyone and when Dylan breaks down those walls, Cam opens up into this beautiful character, who just happens to be a cockatrice shifter.
Yep, you read that right. A cockatrice shifter. No werewolves to be seen in this book! Enter in some amazing world building; namely a secret order of blind priests who have been procreating this species to fight evil for centuries, bad guys who are weasels, and a very interesting twist to the plot that I saw coming, but still surprised me because it was so cool and you have read it to believe it! The unusual twist fit perfectly into the plot because it explained so much of the history of the cockatrice in the world.
But what I loved most was Cam and Dylan’s relationship. Dylan is no fragile flower and when he finds out Cam’s true nature, he’s grossed out, yet turned on. Dylan is a gem. He’s no damsel who needs saving and I think it is his unrelenting nature that drives the plot and love story.
Since I read so many paranormal books, it takes a lot to surprise me and A Shadow of Wings did just that. It is my favorite paranormal m/m book I’ve read so far this year. Ms. Gayle’s writing style is crisp, original and sensual. I am very excited about this series and cannot wait for book two.
Highly recommended.
Reviews by Jessewave
March 2, 2016
The only reason I am giving this book three stars is the legend of Quetzalcoatl.
I am very partial to this particular god because of my favorite childhood book Фаэты (pure sci-fi about the destruction of a mythical planet, whose remains are now known as the asteroid belt. Not a shifter fantasy).
This particular shapeshifter choice was very unique and I loved it. But too much sex and too little history behind the church politics and general going-abouts almost killed it for me.
2 stars, except for Quetzalcoatl and the cutie-pie dragon in the very very end saved the day.
3 stars total.
I am posting this just because :P
"The temptation of Quetzalcoatl" by LauraZel
I am very partial to this particular god because of my favorite childhood book Фаэты (pure sci-fi about the destruction of a mythical planet, whose remains are now known as the asteroid belt. Not a shifter fantasy).
This particular shapeshifter choice was very unique and I loved it. But too much sex and too little history behind the church politics and general going-abouts almost killed it for me.
2 stars, except for Quetzalcoatl and the cutie-pie dragon in the very very end saved the day.
3 stars total.
I am posting this just because :P
"The temptation of Quetzalcoatl" by LauraZel
October 24, 2013
This was a really nice, different shifter story. I haven't read a lot of them, but it definitely unique compared to the ones I have read before. I've never read a book with a cockatrice shifter before, so that was an added bonus. Plus I really liked the writing.
The story was simple enough in the beginning. Dylan gets attacked and Cam comes to his rescue. The first 70% I would say was really good and I loved it. They spent time bonding, getting to know each other, allowing the other to keep his secrets, etc. I liked that part of the story. They knew there were secrets, were upfront about it even, but there was no pressure from the other to spill his guts.
Then we got to the whole reveal and it was a bit strange for me. I will admit, it was kind of bizarre in places. But it didn't take from me enjoying the rest of the story. I just kind of got put off a couple of times with everything.
Another tiny little thing was Dylan's accent? I don't know if it was his accent or just the way he talked. It got kind of annoying at times. Especially because he did talk normally in other places. So I was just left wondering why he chose to talk like that at all.
Overall, it's a really good story and one I would read again.
The story was simple enough in the beginning. Dylan gets attacked and Cam comes to his rescue. The first 70% I would say was really good and I loved it. They spent time bonding, getting to know each other, allowing the other to keep his secrets, etc. I liked that part of the story. They knew there were secrets, were upfront about it even, but there was no pressure from the other to spill his guts.
Then we got to the whole reveal and it was a bit strange for me. I will admit, it was kind of bizarre in places. But it didn't take from me enjoying the rest of the story. I just kind of got put off a couple of times with everything.
Another tiny little thing was Dylan's accent? I don't know if it was his accent or just the way he talked. It got kind of annoying at times. Especially because he did talk normally in other places. So I was just left wondering why he chose to talk like that at all.
Overall, it's a really good story and one I would read again.
March 25, 2013
4.5 stars
This story is quite different from most in the paranormal genre. I really like the imagination and creativity as well as the mythology that is a big part of this story. The plot is surprising and well written. The story has kind of a dark feel, but not in a bad way.
It's a sensual, sexy love story between two completely opposite young men. It's a story of finding one's self. A story of fighting for love and for what you believe in.
I loved the characters. Dylan is very...worn. He's been through a lot, and he's not sure he's worthy of Cam's innocence and trust, but he can't turn him away. Cam is very innocent, trusting, and confused. He's followed the church and it's leaders blindly. But he has his doubts and questions. Keeping his secret from Dylan gets harder as they get to know one another better. The tentative relationship between Dylan and Cam is sexy and fire hot from the beginning and only gets hotter as the story goes on. My only quibble is with Dylan's grammar. Geez...it was starting to get on my nerves, but luckily the story was good enough that I kept reading on.
Overall, A Shadow of Wings is a very good book with great characters and an original, imaginative storyline. I thoroughly enjoyed this story.
This story is quite different from most in the paranormal genre. I really like the imagination and creativity as well as the mythology that is a big part of this story. The plot is surprising and well written. The story has kind of a dark feel, but not in a bad way.
It's a sensual, sexy love story between two completely opposite young men. It's a story of finding one's self. A story of fighting for love and for what you believe in.
I loved the characters. Dylan is very...worn. He's been through a lot, and he's not sure he's worthy of Cam's innocence and trust, but he can't turn him away. Cam is very innocent, trusting, and confused. He's followed the church and it's leaders blindly. But he has his doubts and questions. Keeping his secret from Dylan gets harder as they get to know one another better. The tentative relationship between Dylan and Cam is sexy and fire hot from the beginning and only gets hotter as the story goes on. My only quibble is with Dylan's grammar. Geez...it was starting to get on my nerves, but luckily the story was good enough that I kept reading on.
Overall, A Shadow of Wings is a very good book with great characters and an original, imaginative storyline. I thoroughly enjoyed this story.
March 18, 2013
Sadly, I've hit the point where just about every shifter story seems the same. I was pleasantly surprised to discover that A Shadow of Wings is nothing like any other shifter book. The story is great and I really enjoyed Dylan and Cam.
There were some issues though. There was a mistake at one point and I was confused because the wrong MCs name was used. I must have read that paragraph 3 or 4 times before I figured out that it was a mistake. It really detracted from an important scene in the book. (ETA: The author tells me that a corrected copy is now available, so this should no longer be an issue.)
I also thought the story of the Church, the Brothers, and the Cockatrices was pretty complicated. Especially at the end, I never really understood why the "resistance" was thrown in or what exactly they had planned if they achieved their goals.
Those were just a couple of niggling problems in an overall great book. I'm also feeling the need for a sequel.
There were some issues though. There was a mistake at one point and I was confused because the wrong MCs name was used. I must have read that paragraph 3 or 4 times before I figured out that it was a mistake. It really detracted from an important scene in the book. (ETA: The author tells me that a corrected copy is now available, so this should no longer be an issue.)
I also thought the story of the Church, the Brothers, and the Cockatrices was pretty complicated. Especially at the end, I never really understood why the "resistance" was thrown in or what exactly they had planned if they achieved their goals.
Those were just a couple of niggling problems in an overall great book. I'm also feeling the need for a sequel.
March 14, 2013
I am not one these days to read shifter-type books but the blurb of this one seemed interesting. I am glad I checked this one out. The story starts immediately... no unnecessary filler words or page after page of back stories early on. There were quite a few confusing parts but I eventually got it and I found myself reading quickly to see what would happen next and how everything would play out. This is definitely not your typical shifter book. My only real complaint would be that there are editing issues throughout. Also, the ending seemed a tad rushed even with an epilogue. Otherwise, an entertaining read.
My first by this author. It won't be my last.
Full review can be found at On Top Down Under Book Reviews.
My first by this author. It won't be my last.
Full review can be found at On Top Down Under Book Reviews.
February 2, 2016
Really good read - different type of shifter, sorta shifter, then you normally read about. Dylan & Cameron where perfect for each other & even though Dylan was scared of Cam when he finally found out, his love for him didn't change.
March 14, 2013
Warning! Mpreg: read at your own risk. While the writing was good, I can't see or understand the desire for throwing Mpreg into stories. How is this supposed to be a turn on? It's unfortunate, but, for me, this story was destroyed as soon as I came across the Mpreg scene.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 2, 2013
OMG
I loved it! I must think and then add a proper review. it's amazing, how unique this shifter story is, and how perfect is the equilibrium between adventure, eroticism and sweet romance you will find reading it.
Soon a full review
I loved it! I must think and then add a proper review. it's amazing, how unique this shifter story is, and how perfect is the equilibrium between adventure, eroticism and sweet romance you will find reading it.
Soon a full review
March 13, 2013
Totally loved this story - It's different and refreshing - hope there's a sequel...
Want to read
October 23, 2013Price drop to $0.99 at Amazon US and All Romance until Nov 1st 2013!!
March 30, 2013
This is a little different entry in the world of shifters--cockatrice? I didn't even know what they looked like. But this is not quite a shifter book because of what it takes for Cam to change from man to cock. If you sense a little tongue in cheek is going on with this book then you're right, but only when we get to the end. In the first 3/4 of this book it's more the story of Dylan, a real hard luck case trying to get his life together and Cam, a very lonely man who has secrets like he's compelled to help humans when he's called and that he's also not really human.
The two of them grow close and the majority of this book is really a sweet love story. Dylan is drawn to Cam's shyness and slowly draws him out as they slowly fall in love. There's lots of lovely, passionate scenes between the two of them. But in the background, shadowy creatures have their own plans for Cam.
Then we go to the dramatic ending of the story and things get tense. But some of it is also pretty ridiculous and I could just imagine the writer chuckling writing some of these lines. I also think some of the details were glossed over but maybe this will be a continuing series? For the two characters we do get an epilogue & a happy ending.
What really sells this story is the two characters of Dylan & Cam. I really enjoyed this story. Recommended for shifter lovers. You can't beat the price.
The two of them grow close and the majority of this book is really a sweet love story. Dylan is drawn to Cam's shyness and slowly draws him out as they slowly fall in love. There's lots of lovely, passionate scenes between the two of them. But in the background, shadowy creatures have their own plans for Cam.
Then we go to the dramatic ending of the story and things get tense. But some of it is also pretty ridiculous and I could just imagine the writer chuckling writing some of these lines. I also think some of the details were glossed over but maybe this will be a continuing series? For the two characters we do get an epilogue & a happy ending.
What really sells this story is the two characters of Dylan & Cam. I really enjoyed this story. Recommended for shifter lovers. You can't beat the price.
March 21, 2013
This was a very unique story. It had good pacing, the characters had very distinct personalities, and there was no doubt they belonged together. It's great that they were both strong in their own way, and that's why they complemented each other beautifully. The relationship and the romance were also nicely developed, and the paranormal elements made sense. There were some unresolved, or maybe undeveloped elements, but in my opinion it all hints to a sequel. Some words were overused, but that didn't detract me from the story.
August 12, 2014
Well that was an interesting shifter book. Who'd a thought a cockatrice shifter book would be so damned entertaining? I really enjoyed this little story. Cam was just the cutest thing ever and I wanted to have Dylan come live with me so I could take care of him. The most unlikely of pairs and they were just perfect together. Of course they were fated so that's to be expected. A little bit of drama, a little bit of angst, a little bit of smexing (virgin here) equals a whole lot of fun.
June 2, 2013
Wow.
This is probably one of the most original books I've read in some time. Was it a shifter book...yes, but not really. I loved that we got something completely new (at least to me) and that it was seeded deeply with its own history. There wasn't one thing about this book that I didn't enjoy. I can't wait to read the sequel to see what happens with Cam and Dylan next.
This is probably one of the most original books I've read in some time. Was it a shifter book...yes, but not really. I loved that we got something completely new (at least to me) and that it was seeded deeply with its own history. There wasn't one thing about this book that I didn't enjoy. I can't wait to read the sequel to see what happens with Cam and Dylan next.
March 23, 2013
All I can say is there better be a sequel or I'll be pissed off. I so loved this and want to know more about Dylan, Cam and Izel!!! Oh and Tash too! Want to find out what happens to him! So many questions were left unanswered so here's hoping for a sequel!
February 22, 2013
Hoping for a sequel.
March 12, 2013
This was so good! Unusual, exciting, an super sexy
March 2, 2013
I usually don't like fantasy novels with shifters; but this one was an exception. The interaction between the shifter CAM and DYLAN was incredible...great sex and very romantic.
March 18, 2013
I liked the chemistry between the two characters, but I wish there would have been a bit more background about the church and cockatrices.
Want to read
February 21, 2014Pressie from my dear friend, Ingela...much appreciated babe xx 
November 30, 2018
**4 stars**
Very original. Cute characters. Little angst.
Would have liked to have seen the main characters as well as the secondary characters fleshed out more. Great potential to make this a 5 star story. Not sure where the author went. I’d love to see where the story and new character goes from here!!!!
Very original. Cute characters. Little angst.
Would have liked to have seen the main characters as well as the secondary characters fleshed out more. Great potential to make this a 5 star story. Not sure where the author went. I’d love to see where the story and new character goes from here!!!!
March 31, 2013
Previously reviewed: http://smexybooks.com/2013/03/review-...
Dylan and Cam meet when Cam arrives and saves Dylan from a beating after he attempts to stop a couple of guys who were beating on a dog. Cam’s sense that someone needed help had been simmering all day and led him to Dylan. Though he’s suppose to limit his interaction with humans, Cam helps Dylan up, finds the dog and breaks every rule in the book when he takes Dylan to his home to clean him and the dog up. Though Cam has lived as a human for years, he’s had little or no interaction with them, save this “need” to help people and he’s completely enamored and perplexed by Dylan. For one, Dylan is able to look him in the eye, something no human is supposed to be able to do.
The budding relationship between Dylan and Cam worked for me. Though Dylan’s initial attraction to Cam includes the fact that he lives very comfortably in a beautiful home with food and a comfy bed while Dylan lives in a little more than a hovel, it quickly changes to the fact they just need to be together. While Cam is clearly hiding something, Dylan just kind of goes with it. There is an attraction that they can’t ignore and when they are together, intimately, Dylan sees things that he really can’t explain but he’s never afraid, their connection to each other getting stronger every day and Cam finds himself slowly revealing things to Dylan that he shouldn’t.
The paranormal aspect of this story is totally and completely out there. Revolving around a centuries old secret that has a religious foundation to it, we find a secret society of blind monks that has been breeding the cockatrices for ages and using them to seek out treasure and keep their coffers filled. The bad guys are called weasels and appear to be the cockatrices main enemy, though we find out soon enough that they are not their only enemy.
Cameron and Dylan find themselves with a major fight on their hands when the monk’s true plan comes to light. Cameron must shift and when Dylan sees his true form for the first time he is understandably taken aback. Yet, his fear and confusion is totally overcome by the fact that someone wants to hurt Cam and he cannot let that happen. Instinct takes over and all he knows is that he has to get Cam to safety while he is vulnerable.
**MAJOR SPOILER**
This story kept my attention throughout, even while being completely odd in its premise. Ms. Gayle’s writing is descriptive and intriguing and pulled me in. I wanted to see where she’d go with these characters. She really goes out on a limb with this storyline and it truly is a fresh and brave approach even for a paranormal. I enjoyed Dylan and Cam’s beauty and beast type love story. But once the conflict is introduced and a solution found, the ending is rushed even with the inclusion of the epilogue. I would have liked a little more explanation as to why Cam and Dylan’s being together was so special. The fact that they could do what they did, wasn’t enough. That said, I would definitely read more by this author.
Dylan and Cam meet when Cam arrives and saves Dylan from a beating after he attempts to stop a couple of guys who were beating on a dog. Cam’s sense that someone needed help had been simmering all day and led him to Dylan. Though he’s suppose to limit his interaction with humans, Cam helps Dylan up, finds the dog and breaks every rule in the book when he takes Dylan to his home to clean him and the dog up. Though Cam has lived as a human for years, he’s had little or no interaction with them, save this “need” to help people and he’s completely enamored and perplexed by Dylan. For one, Dylan is able to look him in the eye, something no human is supposed to be able to do.
The budding relationship between Dylan and Cam worked for me. Though Dylan’s initial attraction to Cam includes the fact that he lives very comfortably in a beautiful home with food and a comfy bed while Dylan lives in a little more than a hovel, it quickly changes to the fact they just need to be together. While Cam is clearly hiding something, Dylan just kind of goes with it. There is an attraction that they can’t ignore and when they are together, intimately, Dylan sees things that he really can’t explain but he’s never afraid, their connection to each other getting stronger every day and Cam finds himself slowly revealing things to Dylan that he shouldn’t.
The paranormal aspect of this story is totally and completely out there. Revolving around a centuries old secret that has a religious foundation to it, we find a secret society of blind monks that has been breeding the cockatrices for ages and using them to seek out treasure and keep their coffers filled. The bad guys are called weasels and appear to be the cockatrices main enemy, though we find out soon enough that they are not their only enemy.
Cameron and Dylan find themselves with a major fight on their hands when the monk’s true plan comes to light. Cameron must shift and when Dylan sees his true form for the first time he is understandably taken aback. Yet, his fear and confusion is totally overcome by the fact that someone wants to hurt Cam and he cannot let that happen. Instinct takes over and all he knows is that he has to get Cam to safety while he is vulnerable.
**MAJOR SPOILER**
This story kept my attention throughout, even while being completely odd in its premise. Ms. Gayle’s writing is descriptive and intriguing and pulled me in. I wanted to see where she’d go with these characters. She really goes out on a limb with this storyline and it truly is a fresh and brave approach even for a paranormal. I enjoyed Dylan and Cam’s beauty and beast type love story. But once the conflict is introduced and a solution found, the ending is rushed even with the inclusion of the epilogue. I would have liked a little more explanation as to why Cam and Dylan’s being together was so special. The fact that they could do what they did, wasn’t enough. That said, I would definitely read more by this author.
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