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Terra #1
To the Other Side
Garrett Evergard is a finder of secrets. As a biologist and environmentalist, it’s his job to go into wild lands and uncover their mysteries in order to save them. In the Pacific Northwest, he races against logging lobbyists to save a section of temperate rainforest, but the forest seems reluctant to give up her secrets. Until a fateful meeting with a rare spirit bear opens the door to wonders beyond anything he’s ever imagine, the greatest of those being the beautiful man who comes to his rescue.
As a witch and Gatekeeper, Bryson Summers is used to living a solitary life. He lives between two worlds, Earth and Terra, feeling not fully part of either, and dreams of meeting someone who understands him. From the moment he sees Garrett, he believes – and hopes – he’s looking upon a twin soul.
Dragons, unicorns, and a witch with enchanting brown eyes, Garrett tries to make sense of a world so different from anything he’s ever known. But his mind and heart are open, and he finds himself drawn more to Bryson with each day they spend together. When Bryson and the gate that links the two worlds fall under threat, Garrett is willing to do all he can to protect them, even if it means facing down dark magic.
As a witch and Gatekeeper, Bryson Summers is used to living a solitary life. He lives between two worlds, Earth and Terra, feeling not fully part of either, and dreams of meeting someone who understands him. From the moment he sees Garrett, he believes – and hopes – he’s looking upon a twin soul.
Dragons, unicorns, and a witch with enchanting brown eyes, Garrett tries to make sense of a world so different from anything he’s ever known. But his mind and heart are open, and he finds himself drawn more to Bryson with each day they spend together. When Bryson and the gate that links the two worlds fall under threat, Garrett is willing to do all he can to protect them, even if it means facing down dark magic.
250 pages, ebook
First published May 30, 2013
6 people are currently reading
356 people want to read
About the author
S.J. Frost
44 books572 followersS.J. Frost resides in Ohio with her family, pets, and horses. Her short stories have been featured in several erotic and romance anthologies, and her novels are published through MLR Press. Rock stars, vampires, fantasy heroes, and more, she enjoys dabbling in many different sub-genres in gay romance, but no matter what she writes, love and passion are the driving forces in every story.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
May 19, 2014
There was so much about this fantasy story to like and I liked all the things. When the Clubhouse voted to have SJ Frost as Author of the Month and I saw that there was a book with a unicorn on the cover, I snatched it up so fast it made the interwebz spin. You gotta call “DIBS” pretty quickly in the Clubhouse as they can be a brutal bunch.
I knew I had a win when I came to this:
. . . .he’d (Garrett) seen countless beautiful and magnificent horses, but the unicorn stallion had to be the most breathtaking creature he’d ever seen.”
Yep, I win.
This tale is the love story of Bryson, a witch (the good kind) and Gatekeeper of Terra and Garrett, resident of Earth and Biologist employed with the EarthQuest Foundation. Garrett’s job is to go into areas that are set to be destroyed by big business and government and find a way to save them. His goal is to find something that makes that piece of land unique and invaluable. Trooping through the woods in Washington State one day he had no idea what unique and invaluable treasures he would find, but find them he did. After an unfortunate stumble he ends up being nursed back to health by Bryson and the two of them begin to form a slow and steady bond that goes beyond attraction but also for the love of their lands and all the amazing critters they come into contact with.
Bryson lives in and guards a Gate (hence the Gatekeeper title) which is a portal between Earth and Terra. Earth and Terra are kind of like mirror images of each other, but on different dimensions. Both must be protected so that they can both thrive and survive, but very few people know of the existence of the other land. The Gate that Bryson lives in is pretty much the coolest sounding place on the planet. And now I’m going to take a paragraph to tell you all about the little stuff that made this story for me. Bryson lives in a treehouse, the tree is his house. It’s all open at the top, but protected by wards so he is safe from the elements. At the top of the treehouse is where Wynn lives. Wynn is the dragon that lives with Bryson and I’ve already told the author, I’m pretty sure Wynn is my spirit animal. Dragons in Terra are smarter than people and this little one loves to read romance novels and eat Oreos. I love him. There are a lot of neat little “things” that make Terra a place I want to live and I loved reading about them.
Of course, what would a fairy tale be without a couple of villains? In Terra there is the evil Duke who has an unnatural obsession with Bryson and the power that he has and the warlock that the Duke has “employed” to help him get the partner ring that Bryson has and achieve immortality. Each Gatekeeper ceases to age naturally as long as they are guarding a Gate so, they also have a partner ring that they can give to their true love that will cease their aging as well. There are some nasty shenanigans going on between the Duke and Gethin the warlock. Gethin has his own motivations to get rid of Bryson and both of these guys will stop at nothing to get what they want. The battle at the end is bloody and heroic and worthy of a fairy tale story like this.
I think it will help to keep in mind that this book is the start of a series, so there is a lot of character and world introduction and explanation and the first half of the book is “quiet” for lack of a better word. But, I loved that part as much as the action in the second half. It’s an easy world to get lost in and I was happy to go along with Garrett’s journey as he got to know Terra and especially Bryson. The two of them are seriously hot together and they connect on a lot of different levels that made me believe in an HEA for them. The world building read really organically and wasn’t overly complicated or overly simplified. I never felt like I had to start a flowchart to keep up with characters and connections even though Bryson has a pretty good size band of misfits that come and go at the Gate in the human, creature and forest dweller forms.
All the secondary characters have distinct personalities and voices and I want to read all their stories. Torran and Sir Karrick are up next in Knight of Fire (which I’m reading now – I just wasn’t ready to leave Terra yet). I’m really anxious to see what happens with Larkin and Zain, there is not going to be any easy compromising on that one, I’m expecting some angst there.
This was a really fun fantasy read with interesting characters, a great setting that I want to live in and swoony sexy times that were all kinds of romantic and full of love.
I knew I had a win when I came to this:
. . . .he’d (Garrett) seen countless beautiful and magnificent horses, but the unicorn stallion had to be the most breathtaking creature he’d ever seen.”
Yep, I win.
This tale is the love story of Bryson, a witch (the good kind) and Gatekeeper of Terra and Garrett, resident of Earth and Biologist employed with the EarthQuest Foundation. Garrett’s job is to go into areas that are set to be destroyed by big business and government and find a way to save them. His goal is to find something that makes that piece of land unique and invaluable. Trooping through the woods in Washington State one day he had no idea what unique and invaluable treasures he would find, but find them he did. After an unfortunate stumble he ends up being nursed back to health by Bryson and the two of them begin to form a slow and steady bond that goes beyond attraction but also for the love of their lands and all the amazing critters they come into contact with.
Bryson lives in and guards a Gate (hence the Gatekeeper title) which is a portal between Earth and Terra. Earth and Terra are kind of like mirror images of each other, but on different dimensions. Both must be protected so that they can both thrive and survive, but very few people know of the existence of the other land. The Gate that Bryson lives in is pretty much the coolest sounding place on the planet. And now I’m going to take a paragraph to tell you all about the little stuff that made this story for me. Bryson lives in a treehouse, the tree is his house. It’s all open at the top, but protected by wards so he is safe from the elements. At the top of the treehouse is where Wynn lives. Wynn is the dragon that lives with Bryson and I’ve already told the author, I’m pretty sure Wynn is my spirit animal. Dragons in Terra are smarter than people and this little one loves to read romance novels and eat Oreos. I love him. There are a lot of neat little “things” that make Terra a place I want to live and I loved reading about them.
Of course, what would a fairy tale be without a couple of villains? In Terra there is the evil Duke who has an unnatural obsession with Bryson and the power that he has and the warlock that the Duke has “employed” to help him get the partner ring that Bryson has and achieve immortality. Each Gatekeeper ceases to age naturally as long as they are guarding a Gate so, they also have a partner ring that they can give to their true love that will cease their aging as well. There are some nasty shenanigans going on between the Duke and Gethin the warlock. Gethin has his own motivations to get rid of Bryson and both of these guys will stop at nothing to get what they want. The battle at the end is bloody and heroic and worthy of a fairy tale story like this.
I think it will help to keep in mind that this book is the start of a series, so there is a lot of character and world introduction and explanation and the first half of the book is “quiet” for lack of a better word. But, I loved that part as much as the action in the second half. It’s an easy world to get lost in and I was happy to go along with Garrett’s journey as he got to know Terra and especially Bryson. The two of them are seriously hot together and they connect on a lot of different levels that made me believe in an HEA for them. The world building read really organically and wasn’t overly complicated or overly simplified. I never felt like I had to start a flowchart to keep up with characters and connections even though Bryson has a pretty good size band of misfits that come and go at the Gate in the human, creature and forest dweller forms.
All the secondary characters have distinct personalities and voices and I want to read all their stories. Torran and Sir Karrick are up next in Knight of Fire (which I’m reading now – I just wasn’t ready to leave Terra yet). I’m really anxious to see what happens with Larkin and Zain, there is not going to be any easy compromising on that one, I’m expecting some angst there.
This was a really fun fantasy read with interesting characters, a great setting that I want to live in and swoony sexy times that were all kinds of romantic and full of love.
April 25, 2014
Great fantasy story with excellent world building. A world beneath Earth called Terra. Castles, mystical creatures, a gate between Terra and Earth guarded by a hot witch, magic and a group of odd ball misfits. Everything I enjoy in a good fantasy story. I'm ready to dive into book two.
June 19, 2013
Review posted at The Armchair Reader.
I've missed out so far on reading any of SJ Frost's non-contemporary books, though I did read the first book of her Instincts series. But most of what I've read and really liked by this author has been her Conquest rocker series. This is a bit of a deviation from what I'm used to reading from her, but I still found her touch and sense of humor in it, and I found it to be a book that I really liked and, even more, am looking forward to the further books in the series. Fantasy is one of my favorite genres, and this was a sweet, light-hearted take on the genre, not a dark fantasy by any means, but more along the mood of a fairy tale.
We meet Garrett as he's hiking through a forest bordering the near-by and protected national forest. He works for EarthQuest, an organization that exposes environmental abuses and government action. This forest is being heavily lobbied to be cut, but Garrett is EarthQuest's secret weapon, in a way. He travels to places in danger and, as a biologist, looks for species or plant or animal that could become a mascot for protection. What Garrett finds blows his mind. Capturing the tiny dragon-like birds, Garrett is amazed when he sees a spirit bear, a bear with a recessive gene coloring it white and a heavily revered animal by the First Peoples. He knows he can save the forest now, but in trying to get evidence of the bear, Garrett falls into a ravine.
Bryson is called to the scene of a unconscious man by Koda, the spirit bear. Bryson is a witch, the Gatekeeper between Earth and a parallel, symbiotic world called Terra, and spends his time in both places. He can speak to animals, as well as manipulate the natural forces. And the only way he can save the beautiful and injured man is to take him to his home in Terra. It's against the rules, but Koda tells him that he trusts the man and his confidence as well as the fact that the Floras showed themselves to him leads him to trust the man.
After reawakening in a strange place, the two men get to know each other and at the same time Bryson introduces Garrett to Terra and to his friends, a ragtag group (that will surely become the future main characters of Terra books): Korran, a dragon speaker and protector, Zain, a theif and assassin and all around smartass, and Larkin, a young minstrel who can speak to the dead. Soon, there are not only forces endangering the gate from the Earth side, but also a nearby Duke who is interested in stealing the power of immortality that comes with being it's keeper, enough to summon another witch to help in his ends.
This happened again yesterday, when I reviewed the first book of a new fantasy series (that was Dragon Slayer by Isabella Carter) -- I end up writing a huge summary for the book. I suppose that's to be expected if I was actually going to touch on all the points. First of all, I like having a decent summary. I'm not really spoiled by them because I never remember summaries/blurbs when I start the book and I actually put off reading this for a while because I just wasn't really sure what it was about. Granted, I probably don't remember those blurbs because I don't really read them that closely. That's all my fault! But still, I wanted to give an accurate idea about the book if you're thinking about buying it. Second, as the first book in a new fantasy series there really is a LOT of setup to be done. In this case, not only do we have to learn about Garrett and what he's doing on the Earth side, but then we also have to learn about Bryson and the gate and his home, but also about Terra and a whole different way of life there, including the symmetry between the worlds and how they're connected and why. That's a lot to introduce, so I don't completely blame SJ Frost for the fact that the first half of the book was full of exposition. At least it wasn't dumped on us entirely in the beginning, but drawn out as Bryson and Garrett get to know each other.
No, while I really enjoyed the book and I think that SJ Frost set up a really enjoyable world (though not wholly original still interesting and engaging for those who like lighter fantasy), I still felt like this story was trying to juggle conflicts, between both the Earth and Terra side, which made what ends up to be the major conflict seem slightly underdeveloped. So much time was taken to introduce the world and the relationship that when the conflict started to ramp up I felt like I wished it had been a little more integrated into the story. That isn't to say that it was totally sudden, and it's a relatively minor complaint for a story that I really enjoyed.
This story really reminded me of a lot of Less Than Three Press releases, so those of you who are fans of their fantasies will have to check this one out. I'm very interested in the future books, although it is my own preference that I like to not know who the relationships are going to be before their books start. But then, that's probably bad business ;) I like SJ Frost's writing, and I was actually surprised to find this a lot lighter than I'm used to by her. But then, this is fantasy and those were contemporaries. But she's known for her angst in the Conquest series, and this book was surprisingly light and fluffy, in the best sense of the word.
I've missed out so far on reading any of SJ Frost's non-contemporary books, though I did read the first book of her Instincts series. But most of what I've read and really liked by this author has been her Conquest rocker series. This is a bit of a deviation from what I'm used to reading from her, but I still found her touch and sense of humor in it, and I found it to be a book that I really liked and, even more, am looking forward to the further books in the series. Fantasy is one of my favorite genres, and this was a sweet, light-hearted take on the genre, not a dark fantasy by any means, but more along the mood of a fairy tale.
We meet Garrett as he's hiking through a forest bordering the near-by and protected national forest. He works for EarthQuest, an organization that exposes environmental abuses and government action. This forest is being heavily lobbied to be cut, but Garrett is EarthQuest's secret weapon, in a way. He travels to places in danger and, as a biologist, looks for species or plant or animal that could become a mascot for protection. What Garrett finds blows his mind. Capturing the tiny dragon-like birds, Garrett is amazed when he sees a spirit bear, a bear with a recessive gene coloring it white and a heavily revered animal by the First Peoples. He knows he can save the forest now, but in trying to get evidence of the bear, Garrett falls into a ravine.
Bryson is called to the scene of a unconscious man by Koda, the spirit bear. Bryson is a witch, the Gatekeeper between Earth and a parallel, symbiotic world called Terra, and spends his time in both places. He can speak to animals, as well as manipulate the natural forces. And the only way he can save the beautiful and injured man is to take him to his home in Terra. It's against the rules, but Koda tells him that he trusts the man and his confidence as well as the fact that the Floras showed themselves to him leads him to trust the man.
After reawakening in a strange place, the two men get to know each other and at the same time Bryson introduces Garrett to Terra and to his friends, a ragtag group (that will surely become the future main characters of Terra books): Korran, a dragon speaker and protector, Zain, a theif and assassin and all around smartass, and Larkin, a young minstrel who can speak to the dead. Soon, there are not only forces endangering the gate from the Earth side, but also a nearby Duke who is interested in stealing the power of immortality that comes with being it's keeper, enough to summon another witch to help in his ends.
This happened again yesterday, when I reviewed the first book of a new fantasy series (that was Dragon Slayer by Isabella Carter) -- I end up writing a huge summary for the book. I suppose that's to be expected if I was actually going to touch on all the points. First of all, I like having a decent summary. I'm not really spoiled by them because I never remember summaries/blurbs when I start the book and I actually put off reading this for a while because I just wasn't really sure what it was about. Granted, I probably don't remember those blurbs because I don't really read them that closely. That's all my fault! But still, I wanted to give an accurate idea about the book if you're thinking about buying it. Second, as the first book in a new fantasy series there really is a LOT of setup to be done. In this case, not only do we have to learn about Garrett and what he's doing on the Earth side, but then we also have to learn about Bryson and the gate and his home, but also about Terra and a whole different way of life there, including the symmetry between the worlds and how they're connected and why. That's a lot to introduce, so I don't completely blame SJ Frost for the fact that the first half of the book was full of exposition. At least it wasn't dumped on us entirely in the beginning, but drawn out as Bryson and Garrett get to know each other.
No, while I really enjoyed the book and I think that SJ Frost set up a really enjoyable world (though not wholly original still interesting and engaging for those who like lighter fantasy), I still felt like this story was trying to juggle conflicts, between both the Earth and Terra side, which made what ends up to be the major conflict seem slightly underdeveloped. So much time was taken to introduce the world and the relationship that when the conflict started to ramp up I felt like I wished it had been a little more integrated into the story. That isn't to say that it was totally sudden, and it's a relatively minor complaint for a story that I really enjoyed.
This story really reminded me of a lot of Less Than Three Press releases, so those of you who are fans of their fantasies will have to check this one out. I'm very interested in the future books, although it is my own preference that I like to not know who the relationships are going to be before their books start. But then, that's probably bad business ;) I like SJ Frost's writing, and I was actually surprised to find this a lot lighter than I'm used to by her. But then, this is fantasy and those were contemporaries. But she's known for her angst in the Conquest series, and this book was surprisingly light and fluffy, in the best sense of the word.
May 10, 2017
2.5 stars
Turned out to be too mushy for me. Garrett accepted the fantasy world way too easy so there was no tension at all. The sudden 'change' into the threats didn't help my feeling a bit like suffering a whiplash.
Turned out to be too mushy for me. Garrett accepted the fantasy world way too easy so there was no tension at all. The sudden 'change' into the threats didn't help my feeling a bit like suffering a whiplash.
July 1, 2013
I give this book a 4.5. SJ Frost is one of my favorite authors. The Conquest series is one of my favorites. This is more fantasy/witch/gnome/warlocks kind of book. It is VERY sweet. It has Frost's usual humor and there is an instant attraction between the main characters. For whatever reason, I felt that the last half of the book was much better than the first half, but my thought is that Frost was developing characters for future books. I did fall in love with all the characters by the end and did not put the book down until I finished. I am looking forward to the new series. I have missed new books from this author and am very excited about the prospects of this new series.
June 22, 2013
For me, when I think S.J. Frost, I think either musicians or vampires; so I was immediately interested to see how she worked with fantasy. Her novels usually contain romance, music descriptions, a world building, sex, and a deep emotional commitment between a group of friends. When you read a Frost book, you can expect a large cast of characters.
With all of these descriptions, it could easily translate into fantasy. I believe that she succeeds here.
Basic Plot:
Garrett is a biologist and environmentalist who attempts to save a portion of forest before it becomes deforested. In his quest in the remote wilds he finds something supernatural and beyond anything he could expect. Bryson saves him and takes him back to his world where even more danger lurks. Can they make their relationship work and will they have enough time to save both worlds?
Strong Points:
The strong points in this novel is in the writing and descriptions. I love how Frost describes these magical things like dragons and unicorns. Take this first look at the new world by Garrett:
What could be better?
Believe it or not, this is not a 5 star review because there was too much sex. One of the greatest things about Frost’s writing is that she is not afraid of giving the readers some sexy and hot scenes. The emotional connection between Jesse and Evan is one of the most intense scenes through sex (Conquest series). But maybe it’s just my image of fantasy books, but I tend to want a great deal of world building and not a lot of sex.
That being said, I will say the sex wasn’t until about 1/2 through the book, so there was plenty of time for us to get the world building and plot established before they jumped into the bed. My complaint is just toward the end I started skimming the sex scenes, and I was not overwhelmed with their emotional connection. To be fair, I could be spoiled by Jesse and Evan.
Conclusions:
Overall, this is an amazing story and I am very excited about seeing this world unfold. I think that Frost has built a solid foundation for a series and I wonder who the next story will revolve around. I loved the descriptions, the friendships, and the love story. The action scenes were incredibly vivid and there were times when I felt like I was watching a movie.
I recommend this book to anyone who has read a Frost book and I certainly think that any fantasy M/M readers will like this book as well.
With all of these descriptions, it could easily translate into fantasy. I believe that she succeeds here.
Basic Plot:
Garrett is a biologist and environmentalist who attempts to save a portion of forest before it becomes deforested. In his quest in the remote wilds he finds something supernatural and beyond anything he could expect. Bryson saves him and takes him back to his world where even more danger lurks. Can they make their relationship work and will they have enough time to save both worlds?
Strong Points:
The strong points in this novel is in the writing and descriptions. I love how Frost describes these magical things like dragons and unicorns. Take this first look at the new world by Garrett:
No larger than a cat, the dragon pushed off its side to sit up, and was scooped into the man’s arms. Its scales were white, but as the light hit them, an iridescent sheen glistened over them. Two ivory-colored horns spiraled out from the back of the dragon’s refined, small head, which was held up on a long, slender neck. Triangular spikes, the same ivory color as the horns, ran down the back of its neck, back, and tail. The tip of its tail ended in a spear-like point.Another strong point is something that we see in all of her series, the concept that friends are your family. In both Conquest series and her Instincts series, she builds families out of friendships. I love how she shows love and affection easily given between men. The fact that this friendship is so passionate and strong, but it is not written in a sexual manner, rather in comfort and camaraderie.
What could be better?
Believe it or not, this is not a 5 star review because there was too much sex. One of the greatest things about Frost’s writing is that she is not afraid of giving the readers some sexy and hot scenes. The emotional connection between Jesse and Evan is one of the most intense scenes through sex (Conquest series). But maybe it’s just my image of fantasy books, but I tend to want a great deal of world building and not a lot of sex.
That being said, I will say the sex wasn’t until about 1/2 through the book, so there was plenty of time for us to get the world building and plot established before they jumped into the bed. My complaint is just toward the end I started skimming the sex scenes, and I was not overwhelmed with their emotional connection. To be fair, I could be spoiled by Jesse and Evan.
Conclusions:
Overall, this is an amazing story and I am very excited about seeing this world unfold. I think that Frost has built a solid foundation for a series and I wonder who the next story will revolve around. I loved the descriptions, the friendships, and the love story. The action scenes were incredibly vivid and there were times when I felt like I was watching a movie.
I recommend this book to anyone who has read a Frost book and I certainly think that any fantasy M/M readers will like this book as well.
June 5, 2013
4 1/2 Hearts
Review written for MM Good Book Reviews
Garrett takes his job with the EarthQuest Foundation seriously, as a biologist and environmentalist it’s his job to discover secrets of the wild lands to help to save them from destruction. Looking for anything to save a temperate rainforest in Washington brings him to a startling discovery, a Kermode spirit bear making its home in the forest and that is just the beginning of the discoveries. Bryson is a witch and the Gatekeeper between the two worlds of Terra and Earth, he is part of both worlds and as such is torn between the two, rescuing a man from the bottom of a ravine begins to give Bryson hope that he has met a man who could understand him.
This is a wonderful fantasy that brings two worlds together while keeping them strictly separate. Garrett is thrown into a world he never knew of when he is rescued from the bottom of a ravine, discovering a fantasy world with Dragon’s, Brownies, and Unicorn’s and so much more but the most important thing he discovers is love. Bryson has been torn between two worlds for several years, he loves Earth but he also loves Terra and the destruction of the forest on Earth would destroy the Gate. Bryson and Garrett are attracted to each other and it’s an attraction neither man can ignore, working together they come up with a plan to save the Gate but someone from Terra wants the Gate for themselves and while Garrett is on Earth trying to save the forest Bryson has a fight of his own on his hands.
I absolutely loved this story and the way it was written, the descriptions of Terra were wonderful and I loved that it was a medieval setting with mythical and mystical creatures. Earth is just portrayed as Earth with the typical political money grabbers and the environmentalists trying to thwart them. Although the Earth side has an important part to play, the Terra side is where nearly everything plays out and we are introduced to some very interesting Terra characters and their animal friends. I loved how even the animals were something special, I mean a dragon who loved to read romance books and loves Oreo cookies, how can you not fall in love with them?
The relationship between Garrett and Bryson is stretched out over the course of the book and they both realise quickly that they want to be together, they just have to decide the details and make the commitment and admit it to each other. Although the saving of the forest on Earth is interesting, it was what was going on in Terra that really held my attention: a duke who has his eyes on power and immortality and a dark witch who just wants immortality and the lengths both of them will go to get it. There’s excitement and danger, a wild ride on a unicorn, tiny dragons spewing fire, magic and a grouchy brownie, this is an absolutely brilliant story.
I have to recommend this to those who love fantasy, parallel worlds, brilliant characters, finding love in amazing places, evil intentions, facing death for love and a wonderful ending… oh and some very hot sex.
Review written for MM Good Book Reviews
Garrett takes his job with the EarthQuest Foundation seriously, as a biologist and environmentalist it’s his job to discover secrets of the wild lands to help to save them from destruction. Looking for anything to save a temperate rainforest in Washington brings him to a startling discovery, a Kermode spirit bear making its home in the forest and that is just the beginning of the discoveries. Bryson is a witch and the Gatekeeper between the two worlds of Terra and Earth, he is part of both worlds and as such is torn between the two, rescuing a man from the bottom of a ravine begins to give Bryson hope that he has met a man who could understand him.
This is a wonderful fantasy that brings two worlds together while keeping them strictly separate. Garrett is thrown into a world he never knew of when he is rescued from the bottom of a ravine, discovering a fantasy world with Dragon’s, Brownies, and Unicorn’s and so much more but the most important thing he discovers is love. Bryson has been torn between two worlds for several years, he loves Earth but he also loves Terra and the destruction of the forest on Earth would destroy the Gate. Bryson and Garrett are attracted to each other and it’s an attraction neither man can ignore, working together they come up with a plan to save the Gate but someone from Terra wants the Gate for themselves and while Garrett is on Earth trying to save the forest Bryson has a fight of his own on his hands.
I absolutely loved this story and the way it was written, the descriptions of Terra were wonderful and I loved that it was a medieval setting with mythical and mystical creatures. Earth is just portrayed as Earth with the typical political money grabbers and the environmentalists trying to thwart them. Although the Earth side has an important part to play, the Terra side is where nearly everything plays out and we are introduced to some very interesting Terra characters and their animal friends. I loved how even the animals were something special, I mean a dragon who loved to read romance books and loves Oreo cookies, how can you not fall in love with them?
The relationship between Garrett and Bryson is stretched out over the course of the book and they both realise quickly that they want to be together, they just have to decide the details and make the commitment and admit it to each other. Although the saving of the forest on Earth is interesting, it was what was going on in Terra that really held my attention: a duke who has his eyes on power and immortality and a dark witch who just wants immortality and the lengths both of them will go to get it. There’s excitement and danger, a wild ride on a unicorn, tiny dragons spewing fire, magic and a grouchy brownie, this is an absolutely brilliant story.
I have to recommend this to those who love fantasy, parallel worlds, brilliant characters, finding love in amazing places, evil intentions, facing death for love and a wonderful ending… oh and some very hot sex.
June 4, 2013
I loved this story! I've read the Conquest books. LOVED THEM! I've read the Instincts books. LOVED THEM! This story is entirely different from other books by S.J. Frost, but I can say I LOVED it too!
There's a lot going on in this book. It basically has three plots. You've got the plotline of Garrett trying to save the forest on Earth. The plot of his and Bryson's relationship. And the plot of an enemy coming after Bryson in Terra. The characters themselves are layered too. I loved how open-minded Garrett is and Bryson is one of the most ultimate good guys and sweethearts ever! Bryson is a witch, one who uses his power for good, and both he and Garrett have a strong connection to the natural world. Environmental issues is one of the themes here and I think that's one of the reasons that it works as a great fantasy story, because it feels real and touches on what we think of as our world too. But the fantasy world, Terra, was really believable and I liked that crossover theme with two worlds connected. The story has a kind of fairytale quality to it, but based in reality...if that makes sense.
All the secondary characters are great, Lark, Zain, Torran, and Aleric. Really hope they'll all get their own stories because . And the animals! There's a lot of creatures in this story. Wynn is one of the cutest dragons I've ever read about, but I really fell in love with King the black unicorn. A brave, beautiful black unicorn stallion. How can anyone not fall in love with him? I'm an animal lover, so I really enjoyed all the animal sidekicks ^_^
Great read! Can't wait for more!
There's a lot going on in this book. It basically has three plots. You've got the plotline of Garrett trying to save the forest on Earth. The plot of his and Bryson's relationship. And the plot of an enemy coming after Bryson in Terra. The characters themselves are layered too. I loved how open-minded Garrett is and Bryson is one of the most ultimate good guys and sweethearts ever! Bryson is a witch, one who uses his power for good, and both he and Garrett have a strong connection to the natural world. Environmental issues is one of the themes here and I think that's one of the reasons that it works as a great fantasy story, because it feels real and touches on what we think of as our world too. But the fantasy world, Terra, was really believable and I liked that crossover theme with two worlds connected. The story has a kind of fairytale quality to it, but based in reality...if that makes sense.
All the secondary characters are great, Lark, Zain, Torran, and Aleric. Really hope they'll all get their own stories because . And the animals! There's a lot of creatures in this story. Wynn is one of the cutest dragons I've ever read about, but I really fell in love with King the black unicorn. A brave, beautiful black unicorn stallion. How can anyone not fall in love with him? I'm an animal lover, so I really enjoyed all the animal sidekicks ^_^
Great read! Can't wait for more!
December 25, 2013
I think my rating may have gone up because it's been a few weeks between when I finished this and when I'm reviewing it. The premise of this was my very favorite thing. The idea of a fantasy world (with dragons and magic and unicorns) sharing the same space as our Earth, just in a different like dimension thing. And that there are gates between the two worlds, but that they're guarded from the other side. Very fun.
The characters were also lovely. As with other S.J. Frost novels, there's a large cast of male characters ripe for being paired up in sequels. As with her other series, however, I'm delighted that there will be so many chances to return to this world.
There's just one thing that bothered me: Garrett works for a company trying to preserve as many natural areas as possible. He goes into these pristine wildernesses looking for unique wildlife he can use to help convince lawmakers to protect the land. And Bryson's a witch charged with keeping both sides of the gate safe. And yet Bryson has a motorbike stashed in the middle of this never-before-visited-by humans forest in Oregon (or Washington?) and Garrett's happy to ride it with him out of the forest. It just struck me as very unbelievable that two men so dedicated to protecting the environment would condone the use of motorized vehicles that far into the forest.
Anyway, it was good, and I'm excited there will be more.
Link to S.J. Frost's blogpost about her inspiration for the characters: http://sj-frost.blogspot.com/2013/12/...
Favorite Quote:
"Everyone can talk to animals. The problem is not everyone listens to them."
The characters were also lovely. As with other S.J. Frost novels, there's a large cast of male characters ripe for being paired up in sequels. As with her other series, however, I'm delighted that there will be so many chances to return to this world.
There's just one thing that bothered me: Garrett works for a company trying to preserve as many natural areas as possible. He goes into these pristine wildernesses looking for unique wildlife he can use to help convince lawmakers to protect the land. And Bryson's a witch charged with keeping both sides of the gate safe. And yet Bryson has a motorbike stashed in the middle of this never-before-visited-by humans forest in Oregon (or Washington?) and Garrett's happy to ride it with him out of the forest. It just struck me as very unbelievable that two men so dedicated to protecting the environment would condone the use of motorized vehicles that far into the forest.
Anyway, it was good, and I'm excited there will be more.
Link to S.J. Frost's blogpost about her inspiration for the characters: http://sj-frost.blogspot.com/2013/12/...
Favorite Quote:
"Everyone can talk to animals. The problem is not everyone listens to them."
June 17, 2013
This is a fine written fantasy in a newly created side world. After reading some terrible stories, I finally chosen one with an excellent story plot. Both MC's, Garrett and Bryson, were a fine coupled pair. I liked how they became a couple and will definitely read all other books in this new series.
June 28, 2013
Super sweet! And it's an SJ Frost, so the HEA is a given. I really liked the group of "misfit" friends. I hope they each get their own book. Especially Lark...
June 5, 2013
5 of 5 Stars
Description ~
Garrett Evergard is a finder of secrets. As a biologist and environmentalist, it’s his job to go into wild lands and uncover their mysteries in order to save them. In the Pacific Northwest, he races against logging lobbyists to save a section of temperate rainforest, but the forest seems reluctant to give up her secrets. Until a fateful meeting with a rare spirit bear opens the door to wonders beyond anything he’s ever imagine, the greatest of those being the beautiful man who comes to his rescue.
As a witch and Gatekeeper, Bryson Summers is used to living a solitary life. He lives between two worlds, Earth and Terra, feeling not fully part of either, and dreams of meeting someone who understands him. From the moment he sees Garrett, he believes – and hopes – he’s looking upon a twin soul.
Dragons, unicorns, and a witch with enchanting brown eyes, Garrett tries to make sense of a world so different from anything he’s ever known. But his mind and heart are open, and he finds himself drawn more to Bryson with each day they spend together. When Bryson and the gate that links the two worlds fall under threat, Garrett is willing to do all he can to protect them, even if it means facing down dark magic.
My Review ~
Our story starts out with Garrett exploring a non-protected area of the National Forest in the Pacific Northwest. He's trying to save the area from being clear-cut and is on the search for proof that some flora or fauna is native to that area and depends on that forest for survival. Well he gets a little more then he wishes for when he thinks he's found a new type of hummingbird and then stumbles over a Kermode or Spirit Bear. He's so focused on the two discoveries that as he's filming, he gets a little too close to the edge of the ravine and takes a serious tumble knocking himself unconscious.
Along comes Bryson, who rescues Garrett and, even though he shouldn't, takes him home to help him heal. Bryson is a hereditary Gatekeeper who watches over a door guarding the path between Earth and Terra. Taking Garrett home could mean he'll allow someone else to know the way into the other world. Once Garrett wakes up, Bryson realizes it's not the door to Terra he has to watch over, it's a sexy explorer who might steal his heart.
This book combined all the very best elements in storytelling, at least for this reviewer/reader. It had captivating characters, an engaging and very readable storyline, and descriptive world building. I've been a fan of S.J. Frost's with the Conquest series, but this book reminds me of so many of the fantasy books I read when I was younger. Well, except for the oh, so sexy relationship between our two main characters.
I totally fell in love with the two main characters. Bryson, the courageous and giving white witch, and Garrett, the explorer who is able to be completely enthralled by the world around him. Ms. Frost also introduces us to a fantastic cast of secondary characters including one romance reading dragon, a sarcastic Brownie, an assassin who's head over feet entranced by a Lark, Torran who's tongue-tied by the book's end, and a dangerous, mysterious Elf.
I anxiously await the next book in this series, and all the ones that I know will follow! ~ Reviewed by Chris
Description ~
Garrett Evergard is a finder of secrets. As a biologist and environmentalist, it’s his job to go into wild lands and uncover their mysteries in order to save them. In the Pacific Northwest, he races against logging lobbyists to save a section of temperate rainforest, but the forest seems reluctant to give up her secrets. Until a fateful meeting with a rare spirit bear opens the door to wonders beyond anything he’s ever imagine, the greatest of those being the beautiful man who comes to his rescue.
As a witch and Gatekeeper, Bryson Summers is used to living a solitary life. He lives between two worlds, Earth and Terra, feeling not fully part of either, and dreams of meeting someone who understands him. From the moment he sees Garrett, he believes – and hopes – he’s looking upon a twin soul.
Dragons, unicorns, and a witch with enchanting brown eyes, Garrett tries to make sense of a world so different from anything he’s ever known. But his mind and heart are open, and he finds himself drawn more to Bryson with each day they spend together. When Bryson and the gate that links the two worlds fall under threat, Garrett is willing to do all he can to protect them, even if it means facing down dark magic.
My Review ~
Our story starts out with Garrett exploring a non-protected area of the National Forest in the Pacific Northwest. He's trying to save the area from being clear-cut and is on the search for proof that some flora or fauna is native to that area and depends on that forest for survival. Well he gets a little more then he wishes for when he thinks he's found a new type of hummingbird and then stumbles over a Kermode or Spirit Bear. He's so focused on the two discoveries that as he's filming, he gets a little too close to the edge of the ravine and takes a serious tumble knocking himself unconscious.
Along comes Bryson, who rescues Garrett and, even though he shouldn't, takes him home to help him heal. Bryson is a hereditary Gatekeeper who watches over a door guarding the path between Earth and Terra. Taking Garrett home could mean he'll allow someone else to know the way into the other world. Once Garrett wakes up, Bryson realizes it's not the door to Terra he has to watch over, it's a sexy explorer who might steal his heart.
This book combined all the very best elements in storytelling, at least for this reviewer/reader. It had captivating characters, an engaging and very readable storyline, and descriptive world building. I've been a fan of S.J. Frost's with the Conquest series, but this book reminds me of so many of the fantasy books I read when I was younger. Well, except for the oh, so sexy relationship between our two main characters.
I totally fell in love with the two main characters. Bryson, the courageous and giving white witch, and Garrett, the explorer who is able to be completely enthralled by the world around him. Ms. Frost also introduces us to a fantastic cast of secondary characters including one romance reading dragon, a sarcastic Brownie, an assassin who's head over feet entranced by a Lark, Torran who's tongue-tied by the book's end, and a dangerous, mysterious Elf.
I anxiously await the next book in this series, and all the ones that I know will follow! ~ Reviewed by Chris
August 11, 2013
SlashReaders: I really enjoyed this book. My biggest disappointment was the fact that there isn’t any more of this series out yet. I would have loved to sink down into this series for an extended period of time. There was enough in this book to paint a world full of appealing prospects for interesting stories and characters. I sincerely hope that Frost is planning on doing more with this series. That being said, this book was nicely balanced. The story was wrapped up well but there were enough other elements left unfinished to inspire further reading. In other words there wasn't a giant cliff hanger at the end.
Garrett spends a great deal of his time out in the wild spaces of the world. His job is to go into areas and find reasons why they should remain wild. However, this time things don't go the way he expects. After all, who expects to see dragons the size of hummingbirds? On his way out Garrett takes a nasty fall and wakes up in Bryson's bed. Despite his initial disbelief, Garrett find's himself beginning to believe that Bryson isn't some insane, drug crazed hippie.
As he meets Bryson's friends from the other side, Garrett realizes that things aren't as simple as he once thought. Tensions build on both sides of the gate, as Garrett attempts to save the forest situated around the gate. Problems are coming to a head in Terra as well. Will Garrett be able to save the forest and Bryson?
'To the Other Side', is one of those books that also carries off a good cast of interesting side characters, each with their own unique history and stories. It will be interesting to see how Frost expands upon them in later stories and the combination of fantasy and modernity. All of which was well situated over and around the underlying plot; Garrett and Bryson's undeniable attraction to each other.
If you enjoy fantasy books that cross over into the contemporary world and contain two attractive men getting it on, unicorns, dragons, elves, assassins and bad men in positions of authority; then, I suggest giving this one a try. I haven't decided which of Frost's books to try next but I'm definitely interested to see what else the author has.
Garrett spends a great deal of his time out in the wild spaces of the world. His job is to go into areas and find reasons why they should remain wild. However, this time things don't go the way he expects. After all, who expects to see dragons the size of hummingbirds? On his way out Garrett takes a nasty fall and wakes up in Bryson's bed. Despite his initial disbelief, Garrett find's himself beginning to believe that Bryson isn't some insane, drug crazed hippie.
As he meets Bryson's friends from the other side, Garrett realizes that things aren't as simple as he once thought. Tensions build on both sides of the gate, as Garrett attempts to save the forest situated around the gate. Problems are coming to a head in Terra as well. Will Garrett be able to save the forest and Bryson?
'To the Other Side', is one of those books that also carries off a good cast of interesting side characters, each with their own unique history and stories. It will be interesting to see how Frost expands upon them in later stories and the combination of fantasy and modernity. All of which was well situated over and around the underlying plot; Garrett and Bryson's undeniable attraction to each other.
If you enjoy fantasy books that cross over into the contemporary world and contain two attractive men getting it on, unicorns, dragons, elves, assassins and bad men in positions of authority; then, I suggest giving this one a try. I haven't decided which of Frost's books to try next but I'm definitely interested to see what else the author has.
July 17, 2013
I have read a few of SJ Frost’s stories, but never have I gotten in on the ground floor of a series.
This story is unique for me, in that it melds science and sorcery, myth and legend, and two men who encompass it. Garrett is a very good man. He seeks to protect the natural element from those who would corrupt it. While he searches for a way to protect a remote swath of land, he is injured. He’s rescued by the unlikeliest of sources. A spirit bear named Koda.
Frost layers this story, and sets up the potential characters for future sequels. Each has their own abilities and backstory. We have Larkin – gifted of song and second sight. He can see and communicate with the dead. The man who loves him, Zain, an assassin and thief. The two can’t be together and the reason is logical and sad.
Torran, a man who can talk with dragons. He’s looking for someone to complete his life, but with the things that Torran does, he’s not sure he’ll ever find that person.
There are also a collection of creatures who make the story so much more fun. My favorite is Wynn, a dragon who reads romance novels. There is also Boggy, a brownie of bad temper (not ‘bad’, but grumpy).
Frost has created a vibrant world, one that demands future visits. The story for this one, evil duke wants what Bryson has, and doesn’t care who he has to go through to get it. His ally is dark and devious, and has plans of his own.
For what it’s worth, I absolutely loathe Bartell (the Duke). He is so freaking creepy, especially what he says and does to an elven captive.
The end of the story is, for me, very wicked cool. I loved the steed that the evil warlock has. The description gave me chills and I hope that we get to see him again!
Lucky's 5 sweet pea review appears at http://mrsconditreadsbooks.com/index....
This story is unique for me, in that it melds science and sorcery, myth and legend, and two men who encompass it. Garrett is a very good man. He seeks to protect the natural element from those who would corrupt it. While he searches for a way to protect a remote swath of land, he is injured. He’s rescued by the unlikeliest of sources. A spirit bear named Koda.
Frost layers this story, and sets up the potential characters for future sequels. Each has their own abilities and backstory. We have Larkin – gifted of song and second sight. He can see and communicate with the dead. The man who loves him, Zain, an assassin and thief. The two can’t be together and the reason is logical and sad.
Torran, a man who can talk with dragons. He’s looking for someone to complete his life, but with the things that Torran does, he’s not sure he’ll ever find that person.
There are also a collection of creatures who make the story so much more fun. My favorite is Wynn, a dragon who reads romance novels. There is also Boggy, a brownie of bad temper (not ‘bad’, but grumpy).
Frost has created a vibrant world, one that demands future visits. The story for this one, evil duke wants what Bryson has, and doesn’t care who he has to go through to get it. His ally is dark and devious, and has plans of his own.
For what it’s worth, I absolutely loathe Bartell (the Duke). He is so freaking creepy, especially what he says and does to an elven captive.
The end of the story is, for me, very wicked cool. I loved the steed that the evil warlock has. The description gave me chills and I hope that we get to see him again!
Lucky's 5 sweet pea review appears at http://mrsconditreadsbooks.com/index....
July 19, 2013
Time is running out for biologist and environmentalist Garrett Evergard; he must find a compelling reason to preserve the unspoiled Pacific Northwest rainforest from destruction. Fortunately, Garrett’s encounter with a spirit bear, as well as the witch Bryson Summers, leads to the salvation of both the rainforest and Garrett.
To The Other Side is the first book in the Terra Book series. The plot is a heartwarming romance. The setting is beautifully detailed. Centuries ago, the discrimination against anyone different from society’s majority so prevalent on the Earth side caused a mass influx into non-prejudice Terra. However, the European social composition of the aristocratic and poor, along with power-hungry villains, still subsists in Terra. Terra is also inhibited by all manner of rare creatures with distinct personalities. The fascinating characters are persuasive.
Bryson is the designated gatekeeper; his job is to maintain balance between Earth and the dimensional Terra. This is a key position because the destruction of one side of the planet could also destroy the other side. Bryson is an enormously compassionate witch who uses his magic to heal people, especially the poor. Bryson lives inside a tree that borders an enchanted valley where sacred animals are protected from those who seek to kill them. Garrett has the same love of nature as Bryson which makes Garrett and Bryson the perfect soul mates.
S.J. Frost has created numerous intriguing components in this impressive saga that I found exceedingly enjoyable. The character descriptions, the amusing interaction between the characters, the strong bond of friendship, plus the good versus evil conflict are elements prominently illustrated in To The Other Side. Also, the book cover magnificently depicts the world of Terra.
To The Other Side is the first book in the Terra Book series. The plot is a heartwarming romance. The setting is beautifully detailed. Centuries ago, the discrimination against anyone different from society’s majority so prevalent on the Earth side caused a mass influx into non-prejudice Terra. However, the European social composition of the aristocratic and poor, along with power-hungry villains, still subsists in Terra. Terra is also inhibited by all manner of rare creatures with distinct personalities. The fascinating characters are persuasive.
Bryson is the designated gatekeeper; his job is to maintain balance between Earth and the dimensional Terra. This is a key position because the destruction of one side of the planet could also destroy the other side. Bryson is an enormously compassionate witch who uses his magic to heal people, especially the poor. Bryson lives inside a tree that borders an enchanted valley where sacred animals are protected from those who seek to kill them. Garrett has the same love of nature as Bryson which makes Garrett and Bryson the perfect soul mates.
S.J. Frost has created numerous intriguing components in this impressive saga that I found exceedingly enjoyable. The character descriptions, the amusing interaction between the characters, the strong bond of friendship, plus the good versus evil conflict are elements prominently illustrated in To The Other Side. Also, the book cover magnificently depicts the world of Terra.
November 9, 2013
I got off to a rocky start with this book, the first few pages I felt like I was being lectured on both proper hiking and how evil and greedy humans are and I almost put it down, which would have been a shame because I quickly came to love it. The only bad thing was that I immediately wanted to move on to the next book, eager to see which characters we would be following...and there isn't a next book yet. *cry* The characters were great, not just the two main characters, but all the side characters. I desperately want to read their stories, too, and, like, now. I guess I will have to learn patience. (*snort* Highly doubtful, but you never know.)
I liked the blending of the two worlds and it was a nice change that a choice didn't have to be made between them, that our characters could live in both.
Favorite character would have to be Wynn, the little dragon, with his book and Oreo obsessions.
I liked the blending of the two worlds and it was a nice change that a choice didn't have to be made between them, that our characters could live in both.
Favorite character would have to be Wynn, the little dragon, with his book and Oreo obsessions.
June 3, 2013
well i bought 'to the other side' from all romance ebooks a few hours ago and i have just finished reading it and omg it is amazing a full 5/5 stars i love it. i was completely hooked from the first page to the last so much so i ate my tea 1 handed so i wouldn't have to put it down. it was the first in the series and i cannot wait for the next one, well the next how ever many there might be. so sj frost what i am wondering now is how can i make you bring the rest of the series out as soon as next week? ;)
June 11, 2013
The author has certainly surprised me with this book and a different genre direction, in a pleasant manner of course. To put it briefly, I very much enjoyed reading the story with its detailed yet not overwhelming world building, well contoured protagonists, a sweet romance, engaging secondary characters (including an incredibly cute dragon) and a quite solid plot. I look forward to the next instalment!
July 9, 2013
4.5 stars
I thought the world building was fantastic and that Garrett and Bryson were truly kindred spirits, not to mention smoking hot together. They had a fascinating band of misfits as their best friends, and I particularly enjoyed all the interacting and bonding with the various animals (dragons, unicorns, horses, foxes, cats and dogs - oh my). The extensive character development and vivid details of Terra were well done and I'm really looking forward to future books in this series. :)
I thought the world building was fantastic and that Garrett and Bryson were truly kindred spirits, not to mention smoking hot together. They had a fascinating band of misfits as their best friends, and I particularly enjoyed all the interacting and bonding with the various animals (dragons, unicorns, horses, foxes, cats and dogs - oh my). The extensive character development and vivid details of Terra were well done and I'm really looking forward to future books in this series. :)
June 18, 2013
To The Other Side is the first book in a new fantasy series. I loved, loved, loved the world building, awesome characters and hot romance. S.J. Frost always delivers a great story, a great romance and super hot sex. Yes, all three of those can coexist and S.J. excels at making it happen. I can't wait for the next book.
Read
April 27, 2014Rating: 4.5 stars out of 5
Wonderful world building, a great core group of characters that will make you laugh, and cry and want to know more about their pasts and their path to love.
For my full review, visit http://wp.me/p220KL-2hO
For more of my reviews, author guest blogs and contests, visit http://ScatteredThoughtsandRogueWords...
Wonderful world building, a great core group of characters that will make you laugh, and cry and want to know more about their pasts and their path to love.
For my full review, visit http://wp.me/p220KL-2hO
For more of my reviews, author guest blogs and contests, visit http://ScatteredThoughtsandRogueWords...
June 12, 2013
So nice... now, i wanna go to the other side... hehehehehe.. XD
maybe
November 7, 2024A reviewer said there's not a lot of conflict.
July 20, 2014
Traveling the world in order to stop the greedy from developing untouched landscapes, environmentalist Garrett Evergard is currently trying to keep Washington politicians and developers from clear cutting in the Pacific Northwest next to the National park.
After days with nothing special to show Garrett comes across exactly what he needs, a spirit bear. Very rare and typically found in the far north Garrett starts snapping pictures and taking video. He forgets to watch his step, slips and falls down a deep ravine which causes severe injuries and unconsciousness.
Raised between two worlds Bryson Summers is a witch from a long line of witches. He is also the current Gatekeeper between the worlds of Earth and Terra. It is the spirit bear who takes Bryson to the injured human. Though it's normally frowned upon he takes Garrett through the Gate to Terra to heal him.
The environmentalist awakens in a fantastical place of dragons, unicorns, and one very sexy witch. As Garrett heals, they inevitably grow closer. Neither says the `L' word, but the feeling is there. They both have responsibilities however in different worlds. Garrett must face Washington while Bryson continues to thwart the local Duke who wants control of the Gate for himself. Finding a way to be together won't be easy, but it is the only answer.
Flawless! The perfect blend of sensual, vivid characterizations and an intricate plotline comes together in To the Other Side. Clever word building with layered descriptive phrasing that puts the reader into Terra without going overboard with narration. Garrett and Bryson are meant for each other, no arguments. And the secondary characters are just as interesting. To the Other Side is a book impossible to put down even when it's after midnight. I Joyfully Recommend To the Other Side. Impatiently waiting for Book 2, can you hear my foot tapping? Hmmm?
This book was reviewed by Lisa for Joyfully Reviewed (JR), and was provided by the publisher/author at no cost to JR for the purpose of being reviewed.
After days with nothing special to show Garrett comes across exactly what he needs, a spirit bear. Very rare and typically found in the far north Garrett starts snapping pictures and taking video. He forgets to watch his step, slips and falls down a deep ravine which causes severe injuries and unconsciousness.
Raised between two worlds Bryson Summers is a witch from a long line of witches. He is also the current Gatekeeper between the worlds of Earth and Terra. It is the spirit bear who takes Bryson to the injured human. Though it's normally frowned upon he takes Garrett through the Gate to Terra to heal him.
The environmentalist awakens in a fantastical place of dragons, unicorns, and one very sexy witch. As Garrett heals, they inevitably grow closer. Neither says the `L' word, but the feeling is there. They both have responsibilities however in different worlds. Garrett must face Washington while Bryson continues to thwart the local Duke who wants control of the Gate for himself. Finding a way to be together won't be easy, but it is the only answer.
Flawless! The perfect blend of sensual, vivid characterizations and an intricate plotline comes together in To the Other Side. Clever word building with layered descriptive phrasing that puts the reader into Terra without going overboard with narration. Garrett and Bryson are meant for each other, no arguments. And the secondary characters are just as interesting. To the Other Side is a book impossible to put down even when it's after midnight. I Joyfully Recommend To the Other Side. Impatiently waiting for Book 2, can you hear my foot tapping? Hmmm?
This book was reviewed by Lisa for Joyfully Reviewed (JR), and was provided by the publisher/author at no cost to JR for the purpose of being reviewed.
February 27, 2016
Since the third one just came out, I wanted to go back and start with the beginning of this series to see if I'd like it - well, I LOVED it! I hate that I waited so long to give this series a try; after all, I love everything else I have read from this author, so I should have known better. Fantasy isn't usually a big favorite of mine, especially romance...sometimes I feel like it's so plot and world-building based, that the romance is just off to the side. But that was definitely not the case in this story!
The romance and the plot and world-building was all just a perfect blend. I loved the action, especially at the end, and I especially loved reading about Garrett and Bryson falling in love. However, I think what stole the whole story was the incredibly world building as well as the secondary characters, what we learned about their backstory, and their sidekick creatures - dragons, a cat and fox, and unicorns! I thought it was incredibly creative with the world building, how there's a whole other world that mirrors our world, but mystical. I loved the description of the lush forest and the town that Bryson went to to help heal people, it was all just beautiful.
I'm totally on board with this series and am off to finish getting caught up!
The romance and the plot and world-building was all just a perfect blend. I loved the action, especially at the end, and I especially loved reading about Garrett and Bryson falling in love. However, I think what stole the whole story was the incredibly world building as well as the secondary characters, what we learned about their backstory, and their sidekick creatures - dragons, a cat and fox, and unicorns! I thought it was incredibly creative with the world building, how there's a whole other world that mirrors our world, but mystical. I loved the description of the lush forest and the town that Bryson went to to help heal people, it was all just beautiful.
I'm totally on board with this series and am off to finish getting caught up!
June 1, 2015
S.J. Frost builds an interesting world - really two dual worlds - in To the Other Side. I loved the animals in Terra - and most especially the dragons. Wynn - Bryson's dragon was wonderful. Bryson and Garret are both great MCs, although Bryson was a bit too perfect. There were also many supporting characters introduced who all deserve their owns stories. I would like to read more about any of them, although Zain and Aleric piqued my interest the most. One nitpick is that the story bogged down a bit near the end of the first half, but the second half was quite exciting. I will definitely read the next book.
July 3, 2017
4 Stars for the first three books in the series. To the Other Side is pretty much a fantasy romance until about 80% of the way in when the action starts. I enjoyed the book but did wonder when it was going to start getting "Interesting". The next two books in the series have much more action now that the character introductions and world building have been done.
So again, 3.5 Stars for "To the Other Side" but 4 Stars for the overall series so far.
So again, 3.5 Stars for "To the Other Side" but 4 Stars for the overall series so far.
November 21, 2021
Re-read 2021: 3 stars
I didn't like it at much as I did, when I first read it back in 2013. I liked all the different characters, not just Bryson and Garrett as the main characters. I also liked the world building; a parallel world to Earth that still has magic and dragons. I liked the friendship between the characters.
But overall, I thought it was too long and verbose.
I didn't like it at much as I did, when I first read it back in 2013. I liked all the different characters, not just Bryson and Garrett as the main characters. I also liked the world building; a parallel world to Earth that still has magic and dragons. I liked the friendship between the characters.
But overall, I thought it was too long and verbose.
mm-start-of-series
September 14, 2014I love most everything this author writes from rockers to vamps. But this book/series doesn't really appeal to me based on the description. Not really a fan of ghost or magic themed books. I know I’ll read a fantastically written book... so can I get past the subject and enjoy the story?!?! I just can’t decide.
October 1, 2013
I thought this was certainly something else, since I've read only contemporary stories from this author so far. The worldbuilding was not too complex for a first book and the characters quite likable. Hopefully the next book will come out soon!
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