Centaur Rivalry

Touched #3

by Nancy Straight

The Centaur world is rocked as news spreads of the Lost Herd, Camille's existence, and her Centaur protector. A death order against Camille's father and family sends all into hiding.

Camille and Drake leave the country pursued by the Lost Herd as well as by Centaur Council enforcers. Camille's twin brother Cameron is manipulated by the Council Head and is quickly becoming her newest enemy.

Amid unexpected new protectors, enemies, and romances, Camille and Drake make their plans to travel to Africa to confront the Centaur Council. They hope acceptance of Camille as Chiron's heir, yet knowing that her link to the Lost Herd could require them to kill or to be killed.

Genres: Romance, Fantasy, Paranormal, Mythology, Young Adult, New Adult, Paranormal Romance

ebook

First published April 28, 2013

About the author

Nancy was born in Sioux City Iowa, left the cold of the Midwest in 1991 and only returns to see family in the summer time. She spent ten years traveling the world as a US Marine and settled in rural SC with her husband and two children.

She has written ten novels (3 x Paranormal Romance, 4 x Mythological Romance and 3 x Suspenseful Romance). Nancy enjoys reading all types of Paranormal and Young Adult literature.

Reviews

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rumors abound in the Centaur world that the Lost Herd is back and Camille is both of the Chiron and Lost Herd. Rumors also say that she now has a full Centaur protector. All those rumors would be correct. Drake and Cami are making their way toward the Centaur Council.

Death orders have been issued for Camille’s family and they are in hiding. Cami’s twin brother Cameron has been manipulated and is caught up in their grandmother’s evil machinations.

New revelations have been revealed and a very unexpected ally has been discovered. War is coming, can Camille and Drake bring a peaceful resolution?

Wow! Centaur Rivalry may just be my favorite book in this magnificent series, and that is saying a lot. Old friends and new ones made on the way only enhance this gripping adventure. What can I say, I absolutely love this series and Century Rivalry is an excellent addition. Who ever would of thought I’d be so captivated by Centaurs, but yet I’m sucked in every time. Nancy Straight is a spectacular writer, creating a vivid world living within our world. The relationships and romantic connections are heart felt and strong but still safe for teen plus audience, more implied than described. If you love a fabulous teen romance, don’t miss Centaur Rivalry.

This ARC copy of Century Rivalry was given to me by Nancy Straight in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication May 1, 2013.

[Charles · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Nancy Straight's best book yet! I had the privilege of reading this book before its release and absolutely loved it. The story continues with Drake and Cami making their way to the Centaur Council to fight for the Lost Herd's acceptance back into the Centaur world. Along the way, we meet new character's and spend time with some old characters we grow even closer to! This story definitely has some great moments that are heartfelt and emotional. Fans will not be disappointed with this installment.

Addition 01-18-15: I just finished listening to this book on Audible! It's absolutely wonderful to listen to. If you love Nancy's books, go check them out on Audible for a new treat! The characters really come to life!

[Cat · Rating 5 out of 5]

After falling in love with Blood Debt and Centaur Legacy (books #1 and 2 in this series) I was ecstatic to read #3! Just so you know how obsessed I am with the author - I have been constantly following her goodreads page, facebook page, blog, and on twitter. So, now that we all know how crazy I am about this author and her books, we'll get to my actual review:

This book picks up right after #2, which is thrilling but necessitates that you read the previous book(s). Let's face it, this is the third one in the series - you really should read the previous ones (I digress). In fact, I highly appreciate that the author doesn't waste precious page space reviewing everything that has happened thus far in the story - she just gets straight to the point!

All the characters you know and love are in this book, and so are the characters you don't like so much. There are some devious plans brewing, which promise much more action to come. The author is continuing the trend of featuring one of Cami's brothers per book, which is great because I absolutely adore all of them! You also get to learn more about Cami's past, which is both enlightening and ominous at the same time.

The story has a ton of 'moments': humorous, emotional, serious, mysterious...basically the entire gambit of emotions. I definitely connected more to different characters this time around, which was a nice change. Although I've always liked Daniel, I really felt for him this time around. BEGIN SPOILER: My favorite brother happened to be featured in this book and I will be eternally grateful for the author naming his love interest CatherineKatherine ;D - END SPOILER.

There is a lot going on in this story, and as more characters get introduced each book, there are more characters to keep track of. Luckily, it's fairly easy to remember who's who, and the additions, well, they add dimension to the world the author has already built.

Overall - DEFINITELY recommend this book. I don't exactly know where the author is taking this story but I'm excited to be along for the ride. The characters are relatable, even if their situations aren't necessarily so.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lucky for me, I was granted the awesome opportunity to read Centaur Rivalry before it went to final edit. Let me tell you, you will not want to miss this book. Nancy lays it all out on the table and definitely doesn't disappoint the reader. Her writing style is one of great skill and you can tell that she has a strong passion for what she does. I simply can't wait for Book 4 -- hint hint. ;)
In Centaur Rivalry, the story picks up with Drake and Camille in South Dakota picking up the pieces after being attacked by Centaur Enforcers. They receive help from a couple of old friends and make new friends along the way. Of course, the book wouldn't be complete without the appearance of Daniel, Camille's best friend. Over the course of their travels Camille and Drake begin to make their dreams come true. Brent, Camille's half brother makes a stunning revelation about his future. We're so lucky to meet new characters who will help them on their journey. Those same characters are described with great detail, as only she can do. But best of all, action, adventure and loads of drama are never far away in this wonderfully written book.
Not to give away too much, but you will definitely be left wanting MORE from Nancy Straight.

[Ginny Gallagher · Rating 5 out of 5]

For those of you that follow my blog it will come as no surprise that I LOVED Centaur Rivalry. I’ve mentioned before how much I enjoy books that are unique and stray away from the popular norm. Nancy Straight has written a paranormal series that definitely falls into that category.

Her Touched Series features centaurs and they are nothing like you imagine them to be. They are HAWT, awesome, complex, and enduring. I love the characters and all the drama that surrounds this group of creatures. It’s like reading a centaur soap opera. There’s romance, drama, suspense, mystery, love, hate, and all the stuff in between.

If I had to use one word to sum up what book 3, Centaur Rivalry, is about I would say “strength”. Camille and Drake both learn to embrace their powers and duties. The family comes together and proves that there is “strength” in numbers and that love has a strength of its own. This is a fantastic Young Adult Paranormal Series that I would recommend to any and all fans of this genre. If you haven’t yet had the pleasure of reading book 1, Blood Debt, you can pick it up for free.

[CARLA · Rating 4 out of 5]

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This book felt a bit rushed but was also a little slow for me. More family side stories were brought in which makes me feel the main story slowed down but the other stories were plugged in a fast paced way making it feel rushed. Am I making sense? Probably not eh?

I must say that my favorite character is Brent. I like him even more than Cami and Drake. His side story and love interest are weaved into the main story seemlessly. I could have read a whole book on just them! (wishful thinking)

Usually by the third book I am ready for the finale and the loose ends to be tied up. This one didn’t really tie anything up and instead gave me more loose ends to try to sort through. But they FINALLY got married!!!!!!! The suspense on that event was starting to fray my nerves. Family plays an important role in this book, more so than the others. I’m glad they weren’t forgotten with all the action going on.

This one ends in a bit of a cliffhanger but not a gut wrenching one.

[Melanie Genanatti · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW! I am exhausted from just reading this book. There was so much action, emotion, and twists that I was unable to fully predict the book. What make a book good for me is the ability for the author to not only stoop me, but to leave me wanting more and more. That is exactly the type of series that Nancy has written. I read blood debt after I came across Meeting Destiny, which is also another great series to check out! (hint hint) and I was hooked! Not only is the book about the mythological world but it carried such a great storyline with awesome characters.

Centaur rivalry is the third book of Camille and Drakes journey to help save the lost herd from the wrath of Zeus with the help of some great friends. Drake is dreamy tough and is the ultimate centaur warrior ready to love and protect Camille till death. He is definitely swoon worthy and their love for each other is heart felt through out the whole book. This book added a couple new characters that were just amazing people and really brought the story to a whole new level. I just love Katherine and Jessica! What I didn't see coming was Camille's best friend Daniel taking on such a strong role in this book, which I am absolutely freaken happy about, I actually really loved him in this book and hope that he will be just as present in the next books to come.

The journey of this book was amazing and I loved how Nancy was able to throw in some background information as a reminder of what happened in previous books. You totally rock and I can't wait for the next installment of this series. Now quit reading all these reviews and start writing the next book, I need me some more!!!

[Brenda Sparks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nancy Straight does it again!!! That was the first thought that went through my head when I read Centaur Rivalry. Like the previous two stories, this was a non-stop, page-turning, thrill ride.

In this story Cami and Drake face enforcers, go into hiding, flee around the world, deal with prejudice, and discover a new breed of beings. They even have a pesky dog to contend with a one point and through it all their love manages to survive. Theirs is the kind of love fairly tales are made of. A modern Romeo and Juliette, only with a happy ending--at least up to this point in the series. ;)

The Touched Series is an original, fast-paced series. The plot grips you from page one and the writing is superb. The characters are full of life and well written. Unlike with some series, readers are treated to seeing their favorite characters again and again in each book. (And for this reader, that is a MAJOR brownie point. There is nothing I hate worse that having a character I love only appear once or twice in a series.)

If you are looking for a paranormal YA story that you won’t want to put down, a story that will make you laugh, characters you will love, then read Centaur Rivalry.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

HOLY MOLY !
(I was given an advance copy for review.)

Nancy is THREE for THREE now. I expected nothing less. I started it and read it in ONE DAY -Didn't do much of anything else!!

Couldn't and wouldn't put it down!

Drake and Cam (Camile) are destined, pre-determined, fated -- whatever - made for each other! Cam is a strong force to tend with - Love a strong woman! Drake made the ultimate sacrifice to protect his love. Sigh

She stands by her man ( Centaur? ) and reaps the rewards. They make some new friends, find some help along the way, and ... no spoilers! It's too bad her family is "illegal" as far as the Centaur Council is concerned! There's Grandma with a thirst for power, and twin brother too gulible to believe. Not to mention the Council soldiers! yikes

The action is intense and romance is in the air for secondary characters too! Who can they trust? A new species is introduced and you have GOT TO MEET them! Things are working out - NOT SO FAST - Nancy is great for throwing in twists and this installment is no different. GREAT READ ! MORE MORE MORE !

[Christie Rich · Rating 5 out of 5]

Centaur Rivalry combines many of the characteristics I crave when I read. I love Cami and Drake and their commitment to each other is nothing short of inspiring! Cami gets to know some great people in this installment, too. I loved Jessica and her interaction with Danielle was priceless. As the story unfolds we get to see a story for Cami's brother unfold.

Nancy has a way of drawing me into the peripheral stories just as much as the main story line. There is no depth spared, and it's almost like reading a book within a book.

It's a shame to see Zandra is up to her old tricks. I had some hope for her in the last book, but her true nature has shown again. Too bad Cami's brother is fooled by the "grandma" act. We also get to see the backlash Zeus unleashed on the lost herd.

We get more mythology, which I love. We even get a new species that is really cool! The idea behind this world is so unusual and intriguing, I love seeing it unfold. I didn't want the book to end and need to know what happens with the council!

I can't wait for book four!

This is an advanced copy review.

[Kayla Hough · Rating 5 out of 5]

I literally couldn't put this book down. Your so wrapped up in it from start to finish! I can't wait for the next book! Another AMAZING book by Nancy Straight. You can't go wrong picking up any of her books to read!

[Maghon Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let me count the reasons on why I am OVER THE HILL IN LOVE with this series… 1. A completely awesome, kick ass heroine, who has one of the most impressive attitudes. I will get to that in a moment. 2. Extremely HAWT pieces of male meat EVERYWHERE! I mean, Drake, Daniel, Gage, the 5 Brothers… seriously, gimme some love here boys! 3. There is some MAJOR family drama… If you think your family is crazy, you should meet her’s. 4. The world building of how the Centaurs and their laws and loop holes are fascinating to me. 5. Lastly, but not least, I ALMOST got my happy ending LOL! Though I know there will be 5 books (hence my 5 reasons), I finally get something I wanted since the beginning- no I will not go telling you what that is because you need to read this series on you own
I am extremely proud of Camille and her character growth. She is way more cautious than she used to be, and though she is scared, she is not backing down. She finds some unlikely allies, and she also makes Drake not be so… depressing- for lack of a better word. She has matured in her decision making and she’s also realizing that her powers are useful, so use them. I’m also so glad, that when she had the options to hide, she did when it was necessary and in the end, she knows that hiding will not always be the right choice, and when given the option to hide for good, she won’t. Her determination to make the world a better place for centaurs has completely impressed me. Honey, if I lived in your world, I could be your crazy Cajun sidekick
Let’s talk about all the HAWT male pieces for a moment. Drake surprised me, with some of his not so optimistic attitude, however when he finally finds his “switch” (yeah that’s what I’ll call it *wink*) he finally realizes that some sacrifices are worth it, even if in the moment it seems unbearable, there’s always a way I of course love his chivalry and I love that even when it kills him, he gives Cami space. Very cool! Daniel is still a major favorite… HEY DANIEL, I’m available … He is hilarious, and he’s not so tough, even if he pretends really well. I am reaaaaally hoping he gets then ending I hope he gets. He’s the best friend anyone could ask for. YAY for Team Daniel… Brent is…. ugh. I actually wanna dislike him. He makes me mad a lot, and then he does something so nice, and some comforting, and damnit, I love him again. I am SERIOUSLY happy with what he chose in that particular “decision”. As for the other brothers, I am very much hoping to see more.
There was so much action. I mean, let’s get attacked here, and chased here, and almost strangled here, and let’s try not to die here. Yeah, seriously, it’s that awesome. And I am very much in happiness with the humor that strikes in every once in a while. And the drama, I mean I am seriously hoping that mama Z dies a really terribly, torturous, mean death, which will fit her. Dear Ms Nancy, hear my plea on that one. I also hope Cameron doesn’t become permanently stuck in his current situation. Please fix this. It’s heartbreaking. And to the new characters, Jessica and Katherine. Jess is the coolest kid. I really like her, but I swear, if she goes back to her crazy family, I will personally jump into the book and kick her ass myself! Open your eyes, and maybe you’ll find exactly what you were looking for is in front of your face. As for her character, I absolutely love her attitude. And Katherine… She is a whole new creature which is soooo cool. I am hoping to learn even more about that, and I am extra happy with her “situation” and hope it continues to work out
Ok, enough with the characters. Let me talk about the writing for just a minute. Think if you were a complete chocolate addict, and someone gave you a room full of every chocolate know to man…. You will never leave this room, it has everything you could ever want. It’s yummy, and soft, yet hard, and delicious, and sometime bitter, and overall, the best tasting thing that will ever touch your tongue… Yep, I just used an entire paragraph comparing the writing to chocolate… I am obsessed and I will not let go. My secret is I actually hate chocolate-yes I am the devil spawn- but I know how most people love it, and I happen to be obsessed with cinnamon rolls and bacon LOL so it’s that level to me. I am completely invested in every single character. I have fallen in love with the two main characters, and I have grown to hate the bad guys-and ladies- and I am completely engrossed in what will happen. It’s like a beautiful disaster. It’s such a treasure to love a story this much. It’s only book 5, and though I am DYING to know how it will end, I’m already crying thinking about the fact that it’s going to end. *sad face* So, without further ado, do you have any more questions as to why you aren’t reading this series yet? Seriously, go get them RIGHT NOW! I have a few moments to wait. 6 MIRACULOUSLY DISASTROUS MAGNIFICENT PAWS! Yep, this is one of those rare 6 PAW moments.

[Jess · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, Nancy Straight. You make such pretty words. <3

~~~

Nancy Straight is one of my favorite indie authors. And of both of her series, this one is my favorite. I read an ARC of Centaur Legacy, which means I read that book early and had to wait a super long (well, super long TO ME) time to read the next book, this one--Centaur Rivalry. I knew very little about the book in its entirety, but I did have a teensy inkling that a certain character whose name I may or may not share (I totally do) was going to come into play in this book.

So then after waiting and waiting, I FINALLY got Centaur Rivalry, and then life did that irritating thing and got in the way again. I had to wait until school was out. But THEN I sat down and read this book. And I enjoyed it so much!

Character Rundowns:
There are A LOT of characters in these books. So I'm not going to list them bolded, I'm just going to comment on them as it comes to me and bold as I go. First of all, Cami. I still think that if she and I were to meet in real life, we'd be friends. She ticked me off a little, because she does tend to slip into selfish-mode sometimes and not pay much attention to how what she does affects those around her *cough*Daniel*cough*. Drake...I love his protectiveness, but really didn't like his insecurity. Made me want to slap him. DANIEL! Oh, my boy. I just love him. A lot. He is so sweet, I will never get over it! And Jessica. It is so insanely cool that there is a character names after me. She was sort of awesome, too!

Plot. This book certainly got off to a great start. Part of this was probably due to the fact that I'd been WAITING since the end of the last book for this. Then things got going, and Nancy Straight writes so well. The story just kept going all the way until it was time for me to pout and go back to waiting for more Daniel. (He's my favorite part of these books!) We learn a lot in this book, and...well, a lot of stuff happens. It was terrific.

Romance. There are so many couples! It's super cute (and makes me happy when there is a certain boy whose name starts with a D and ends with an aniel is involved) but I have to admit, it was...A LOT. Then again, it's nice to see the happiness amidst the chaos of their situation. Either way--SO MUCH SWEETNESS!

The ending. My dearest Nancy Straight. You know I heart you, but why must you make me wait so much for more Daniel? He is my boy! And don't even get me STARTED on how you ended this book. Next book! NEED! *grabby hands*

Overall, Centaur Rivalry was a great installment in the TOUCHED series. It made me super happy as I was reading it and definitely left me wanting more once it was finished. Now I wait for book 4!

You can find more from me on my blog: Just a Booklover

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a great series. Fans of paranormal need to read these books. Heck, even people that feel burned out on paranormal books need to read the touched series. It is THAT GOOD. Centaur Rivalry picks up right where Centaur Legacy left off. This book had my emotions all over the place. I was excited, I was mad, I was confused when Cami was. Nancy Straight is such a fantastic writer. She has created such a vibrant and fascinating world using a mixture of paranormal and mythology. And in the third book we are introduced to another paranormal creature. All of the books in the Touched series are told from multiple points of view, but it never feels overwhelming. Actually, it is a great way for us to get to know a lot of the secondary characters as well as the main characters. I really connected with Nancy's writing style. She switched between the points of views seemlessly. She makes telling a great story seem effortless.

Cami is so loyal. I think that is what I like most about her. Brent, one of her half brothers, said something interesting in this book that I loved. He said that everyone was instantly drawn to Cami because she has no problem questioning authority and traditions if she thinks they are stupid. She is strong and independent. And even though it may seem frustrating sometimes, she is like a breath of fresh air to the centaurs that surround her. You just can't help but love her. And she never gives up on Drake. I think that is really admirable. I love the two of them together.

We get to know some new characters in this book and we get to see more of Cami's twin, Cameron. Zandra frustrated me to no end! I can't stand that lady! The way she spins everything makes me sick. But there is a lot going on in this story. The stories start out all over the place, but eventually everything comes together. I could not put this book down. I needed to see what was going to happen next. I also love that each of Cami's half brothers has his own mini storyline woven into the overall bigger story. Last book we got to see Beau meet Lacey and in this book it is Brent's turn. I ended up liking Brent more than I thought I would. At first glance he seems to be kind of arrogant, but there is more to him than meets the eye.

The touched series is paranormal at it's finest! With so many young adult and new adult books out there, sometimes it is hard to separate the really great ones from the average good ones. Take my word for it, this is one of the really great ones! I can't wait for the fourth book! Especially because of that cliffhanger...

[Courtney Robichaux · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m so glad Bianca and Gage joined Cami and Drake in the beginning of Centaur Rivalry. They really needed true friends around them during this trying time. Bianca and Gage accepted Drake’s choice to remain as Cami’s centaur warrior better than even Drake did. Cami and Drake have been through so much already and this book is no exception. Cami held them together with hope and love. Even if only for a few days on the island, they were at peace with the world and with each other. Their relationship is just magical and so much fun to read and experience.

Completely captivating from beginning to end!

That peace doesn’t last very long though. Zandra is still at it and I’m sure Phineas is scheming as well. Zandra’s main objective now is brainwashing Cami’s twin Cameron. She wants Cameron to take her place as Chairman of the Council and has issued a death warrant for Cami and any members of the lost herd including Cami’s family.

This book even had a few new characters but because of my experience with Phineas and Zandra, I was very skeptical of Katherine and Jessica. Katherine is so mysterious and a different species! She’s also tough yet vulnerable, strong yet soft, and almost always keeps her guard up. She and Brent have quite a journey ahead of them.

Daniel, Cami’s best friend, is a whirlwind of a character. He’s hilarious, arrogant, fun and spontaneous. He loves Cami so much that he took a big chance with Drake that could have got him killed. The airport scene with Daniel and Cami had my heart breaking but by the end of this book, I could feel Daniel coming to terms with their relationship. He’ll always have a special place in her heart and now it’s time for Daniel to find his happily ever after. I’m really rooting for Jessica to open her eyes to what a wonderful choice he would be.

This book was FULL of action! Battles with centaur enforcers, a beautiful wedding, someone gets lost in the jungle… I was always on the edge of my seat. I can only imagine how intense it will be once they finally make it to Centauride. I am addicted to this series and cannot wait for the next book.

[Marsha · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading "Blood Debt," I could not imagine a more creative Greek mythological based YA book on the market. I wondered how on earth could Nancy Straight continue to build a imaginatively rich world of the centaurs without failing prey to the dreaded 'sophomore' curse that plagues so many promising new series. Yet, this author has surprised me again and again with the magic of her world building. "Centaur Rivalry " is an action and surprised filled jam packed reading extravaganza.

Cami and Drake are hiding out in a boarded up motel in North Dakota after narrowly escaping their enemies. Soon they are joined by newlyweds, Gage and Bianca, Cami's brother Brent, and her best friend, Daniel. This installment is different from the previous two books because the story is being told from several character's points of view including two new characters, Jessica and Katherine who will have pivotal roles in this book and future installments.

Drake must somehow come to gripes with his duo Centaur /man side all while keeping his promise to protect Cami. Once he learns how to accomplish this he and Cami will find a way to consummate their love or will they?

There are myths to unfold, devious plots to ensnare, battles to be fought and lines in the sand to be drawn; but one thing that is perfectly clear: Cami will grew into a force to be reckoned with that even she cannot imagine.

I loved reading about the various character's POV 's, the myths of Zeus and Athena and the rich world Ms. Straight. creates. I was mezmerized from the moment I began reading yo the very end of the book. My only complaint is now I will have to wait until November for the next book to be released and that prospect is torturous considering you can feel the tension building with each and every page.

If you love Greek mythology but wants something totally unique, run, don't walk and pick up this series. You will love it as much as I do!!!!!!!

[April · Rating 5 out of 5]

I freakin love this series!!! There is so much depth to the story!! Really creative concept, who would have thought I would adore centaurs! I am seriously entrenched in this series!

The book is rich and dynamic, with so many beautiful levels. My favorite thing is the way the narrative switches and gives varied POV from the leads and supporting characters. The intricate web of connections between the couples is brilliant. I can not wait to see where this all goes.

I love Cami and Drake, such devotion! The other couples are just as great to see interact and grow in their relationships. I did want to smack Cameron for being so gullible, but I have hopes that will change in the next book. Every where they go they seem to pick up new friends and allies. The angst is minimal, thank goodness.

One of the great things is the way they come together as a family. They may be new to each other but the loyalty and love are deep and unbreakable. I am very excited to see them in the final battle.

I will say one thing that bothers me in the series is the way the ladies let themselves be treated. They are stronger than the males and have all this power. Thankfully this is about to change, I suspect.

I will say the first person is annoying. Listening to the audiobbook makes it a little better, but it is not my favorite. It is narrated by Teri Schnaubelt, who does a stellar job with the various voices and POV. She has splendidly swift pace, it adds to the movement of the story. I love her tone and the energy she instills in the read. She is a real credit to the series.

This book brings us closer to the end and unveils so much more of the tale. The mythology mixed in is fantastic. Everything comes together and you see glimpses of what will happen in the final book. I can not wait to see this hand played out!

Disclosure - I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts, opinions and ratings are my own.

[Mandy Reads Indie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cami must have known I needed my solitude, and she stayed wordlessly by my side-no words of encouragement or second thoughts about what lay before us. If we died, wed die together- our last act on this earth trying to save the Lost Herd and the family we had both come to love.
***

I am never good at reviews when it is the 3rd book (or more of the series). Especially when it is as good as the previous ones. I just always feel like a broken record...yes, love the characters, love the storyline, yada yada. But truly this was another fabulous addition to the series. I did love the characters and I did love the storyline. As the story moves along, Straight keeps it fresh by the things she is adding to the book. You don't feel as if you are reading the same story in a different book.

I do love the opening line in the summary "The Centaur world is rocked as news spreads of the Lost Herd, Camille's existence, and her Centaur protector." Um, yeah. Just a tad. LoL! What I would give to see the faces of those who have come in contact with Drake in all his hoof-y greatness!

There is still romance to be had and not just with Drake and Cami. Oh just you wait and see! There are new people added to this one and so new romances are bound to happen. Speaking of the new people, I really think that readers are going to like them. I definitely think they bring something great to the series.

Ok, enough of that. Before you know it I will be giving away the story. And we can't have that can we? No. We cannot. So of course I recommend this book (and the whole dang series). Straight is a fantastic story teller and I cannot wait to see what she has waiting for us in book 4, CENTAUR REDEMPTION.

[Sara Bree High · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nancy straight this series keeps getting better and better!

Nancy does it again! Brilliant addition to a series that just keeps getting better. Book 4 ready?

Drake and Camille are in S. Dakota, after the attack of Centaur enforcers. Friends have come to their aid and of course Daniel. (Cami's BFF) family and friends are there. We meet new people this time too.
Camille and Drake just want to love their life, fulfill dreams and be happy.
This story has been a journey since book one, the way the story flows with little effort and you become invested in each character.

This series has it all!!

Love- why yes we have that! Check! Let me say .. Read it but I love me some Drake!

Drama- omg yes we have it in spades! The good kind that just makes you say.. No way, what the hell and omg! Nancy has a way of drawing you in- heck I'm wrapped up in centaur politics ha-ha!

Suspense and action... yes, the edge of your seat kind.

The book like I said has it all.. I enjoyed the story and I cannot wait to see what happens next..
I could go on and on.. However I'm not I am going to tell you to buy the books. Sit down and get comfy. You will become captured in the world of the Centaurs. You will find yourself falling in love with the story page after page. Well done yet again Ms. Straight. Already a fan girl but you know you keep proving to me over and over again why.. Book 4? Soon please.

[Samantha Morris · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all id like to thank Nancy for the opportunity of reading this series, i was lucky enough to get an advanced review copy of this book and i could not give this book or series enough praise if i tried. Nancy has done it again once you pick up one of her books u can not rest until you have finished it even if you are having to use matchsticks to keep you eyes open just to finish. It is a very different series to what i am used to and i must say i absolutely love it.I was so looking forward to reading this book and i wasn't disappointed one bit. We saw Cami growing infront of our eyes in Centaur Legacy and her will, determination and loyalty to her friends and family only grows even more in Centaur Rivalry she will not give up! As for her and Drake's relationship in this installment it blossoms and grows even more. (There was a scence where i was acting like a child by jumping up and down in happiness) sayin hell yeah !!! lol. Alot of the characters develop in this book and we meet a few new good ones along the way we also get to know Brent and Daniel a bit better.Thankyou Nancy for yet another amazing book i will be twiddling my thumbs now waiting for book 4 !!

[Gabby (What's Beyond Forks?) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full Review at: What's Beyond Forks?

Centaur Rivalry is the third book in the Touched Series by Nancy Straight. You need to read the first and second book before reading this book. There is so much that happens and so much critical information you need to know to fully have a grasp of what's going on. This series gets better and better with each book. I knew things were about to get rough, but I had no idea just how hard things would get for Cami and Drake. Whew!! We also get to meet some new characters and with them comes some possible new romances. I'm not a fan of Cami's brother. He doesn't seem to think for himself. You always have that one. Even in real life. Hopefully, he comes around. The characters as a whole are pretty amazing. They all have their own little quirks and for such a large cast of characters, I was surprised that I grew to really like each of them for different reasons. I highly recommend this series to all fantasy/paranormal romance fans. This has been such an amazing series so far. I'm ready for more!

[Heather andrews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let's just all have a refresher of how YUMMY Drake is, "Drake stood a little over seven feet tall, his bare chest was exposed - every muscle rigid," Why yes ma'am that is yummy! I can feel for Cami I mean who doesn't love cuddling with their boyfriend, and with the circumstances I know it's hard, it's okay girl we're here for you, "I miss how close we were in Irelan, waking up each morning to your eyes looking back at mine. Your arms around me...I just miss it." Drake is still just as considerate as he was when the day they met, "Our first time together can't be like this. It can't be on the floor. You deserve so much better." They both are still playful toward each other, and given the circumstances playfulness is VERY important, "that's what you're thinking? Not trying to be high maintenance or anything, but content wasn't a word I was hoping to hear you describe us with for at least another twenty years." I was pleased with the ending and the events and the turn abouts in the book and the cliffhanger well wasn't really a cliffhanger.

[Hot Romance Novel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely breath taking! Another book full of mystery, suspense and just an amazing love story! By the way, another shocker end! Nancy is just fantastic! How can an author continue to run the reader through every emotion in one book? Just amazing! I can not wait for the last book!! I love the series and could not put it down....The series makes you really think about what and who walks amongst us all!

[Abby · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great 3rd book to an already great series. Nancy Straight's writing again was unpredictable, passionate and with a touch of humor that made you want to be apart of the family. The way she writes makes you love the characters and you want them to succeed. I can't wait for the next book!! It is a must read!

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ok, one of the best series I have ever read! Such a great job by the author! I have not gotten anything done around my house since I picked this series up! You just cannot put it down! I dont know what I am going to do without being able to read the next book right away! I felt as though I was in the story. Great writing style and imagination! Absolutely LOVED it!!

[Beth Erwin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've never read Nancy Straight until this series, but I'll be watching for her now. I loved every minute of these books, read them at every opportunity, and can't wait for another installment. These are the kind of books that keep you up at night thinking you can put them down in 'just a minute'. Can't wait for the fourth book!

[Cheri Varner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. This series has kept my on my toes the whole ride. It's awesome. This book helped resolve somethings from the last book, but kept us unresolved enough to get us ready for the 4th. I loved the main characters and all the secondary characters. Bring it on!! ;-)

[Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Drake's and Cami's Centaur world. I have fell in love with this series and can't wait for the next!!!!

[Kathy Harrington · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought this was the end of the series, I was wrong. Holy crap this is getting good. Lots of drama with a splash of love. Again, excellent book.

[Jan Niblock · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series keeps getting better and better and this part is getting really interesting. I didn’t think I could dislike Zandra any more than I did when she abused Cami but she has extended her evilness. She is pure evil.

I have to say that Cami is really learning how to use her powers and coming into her own. Let’s just hope that she succeeds in the end. I love the rest of the family and their willingness to protect Cami and Drake.

This story shows how easy it is to follow along blindly and not think for yourself. There are rules that must be followed but as times change, the rules sometimes need to be adjusted to the modern world. This story still shows that love is the most important thing and it will help make things better. I am so looking forward to the next book to see what happens at the Cantauride and hoping that there is a happy ending for all.