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Solstice
Time is running out for Armend Zogu. The 250-year-old family curse on his head will claim his life on his 30th birthday, the winter solstice.
Sofia Palmalosi might be just the Strega who can save him. A descendant of a long line of powerful Italian witches, her family’s magic was a gift from the Goddess Diana.
Together Sofia and Armend embark on a journey from New York, to Sicily and the ancient ruins of Diana’s temple, and back to New York, all the while fighting a battle of magic and wits with a psychopath who wants them both dead and the curse intact.
If the curse doesn't kill Armend, breaking it just might.
Sofia Palmalosi might be just the Strega who can save him. A descendant of a long line of powerful Italian witches, her family’s magic was a gift from the Goddess Diana.
Together Sofia and Armend embark on a journey from New York, to Sicily and the ancient ruins of Diana’s temple, and back to New York, all the while fighting a battle of magic and wits with a psychopath who wants them both dead and the curse intact.
If the curse doesn't kill Armend, breaking it just might.
328 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 1, 2013
1 person is currently reading
86 people want to read
About the author
Debbie Christiana
9 books109 followersDebbie Christiana is a fan of things that go bump in the night, the mysterious and macabre, and unusual love stories. This led her to write dark romantic fiction and horror short/flash fiction stories.
Lover of #Yoga, #magic, #Halloween #horror, #wine, #hiking #Labradors
http://debbiechristiana.com
Lover of #Yoga, #magic, #Halloween #horror, #wine, #hiking #Labradors
http://debbiechristiana.com
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
May 4, 2013
Solstice is such a genuine and authentic representation of the Stega tradition, it absolutely blew me away. I honestly cannot recall any other book I've read that was as authentic in its representation as Solstice. Sofia is a Strega witch and direct descendant of Messalina, a dear friend of the Goddess Diana, who was left broken-hearted by Vulcan. With Diana's help. Messalina emerged from the heartbreak a strong and wise woman. Diana gifted Messalina the Diana Dagger, "a beautifully-crafted blade with a pure gold crescent shaped hilt". The Diana dagger has been passed down to each generation of Messalina's descendants. Ever generation, one Strega is personally chosen by Diana to possess the dagger. In this generation, the chosen one is Sofia. She is gifted the dagger and bestowed the gifts from Diana herself.
Armend is a man on a mission, to save his own life. He has watched Sofia from a distance, working for her parents and falling in love with Sofia at first sight. He knows that he cannot express his feelings for her because he knows his life will end on the Winter Solstice. A victim of a centuries long curse, on his 30th birthday, he will die, unless the 2 pieces of a sonata are brought back together. Sofia's parents own an art gallery in New York City and when they start receiving threats to release a certain painting, Sofia and Armend are brought together to help find the person responsible for the threats. Armend has his own gifts, to locate a person by touching something that that person has touched. After touching the threatening letter, Armend discovers who is sending the threats and realizes that Sofia's parents are being threatened because it is believed that one piece of the sonata Armend needs to save his life is hidden in a painting that is currently on display in the art gallery. As Armend reveals to Sofia and her parents what the threatening letters are really about, they all embark on a mission to save his life. Much to his surprise, Sofia has returned the same feeling to Armend as he has for her. They're love is so pure and beautiful. Sofia will stop at nothing to save Armends life, including putting her own life at risk.
Debbie Christiana, has, in my opinion, written a Masterpiece. I truly hope that she continues the story of Armend and Sofia because I certainly have not had enough of these two. I can see this story even being made into a movie, it is that good. The detail in Solstice is so exquisite, I can feel myself in the story. I felt like I was there, on this journey with Sofia, Armend, Sofia's parents, her sister and her sister's new love interest, Aaron. I cannot say enough about Solstice. It is simply amazing and not a story you want to miss. I give this book 5 big beautiful stars.
Armend is a man on a mission, to save his own life. He has watched Sofia from a distance, working for her parents and falling in love with Sofia at first sight. He knows that he cannot express his feelings for her because he knows his life will end on the Winter Solstice. A victim of a centuries long curse, on his 30th birthday, he will die, unless the 2 pieces of a sonata are brought back together. Sofia's parents own an art gallery in New York City and when they start receiving threats to release a certain painting, Sofia and Armend are brought together to help find the person responsible for the threats. Armend has his own gifts, to locate a person by touching something that that person has touched. After touching the threatening letter, Armend discovers who is sending the threats and realizes that Sofia's parents are being threatened because it is believed that one piece of the sonata Armend needs to save his life is hidden in a painting that is currently on display in the art gallery. As Armend reveals to Sofia and her parents what the threatening letters are really about, they all embark on a mission to save his life. Much to his surprise, Sofia has returned the same feeling to Armend as he has for her. They're love is so pure and beautiful. Sofia will stop at nothing to save Armends life, including putting her own life at risk.
Debbie Christiana, has, in my opinion, written a Masterpiece. I truly hope that she continues the story of Armend and Sofia because I certainly have not had enough of these two. I can see this story even being made into a movie, it is that good. The detail in Solstice is so exquisite, I can feel myself in the story. I felt like I was there, on this journey with Sofia, Armend, Sofia's parents, her sister and her sister's new love interest, Aaron. I cannot say enough about Solstice. It is simply amazing and not a story you want to miss. I give this book 5 big beautiful stars.
September 24, 2013
Debbie Christiana weaves an intricate tale in her second novel, Solstice. She tantalizes the reader to quickly turn the page wanting more. As with her first novel, Twin Flames, Debbie has delved into considerable research of the modern day witch and their beliefs. Her accuracy in describing their implements, incantations and more of a Strega (an Italian name for witch) is uncanny.
Solstice spins into a precise yarn of an intriguing ancestral curse, and unfolds into a battle of magical prowess, of good witch versus psychopathic witch. And the exacting complications when seeking to dispel the curse. Sparks will be soaring when dueling witches wield lethal wands, who will survive?
The reader is hooked immediately when you learn of Sofia Palmalosi heralding from a long line of Strega's, and then the scintillating romance of Armend and Sofia kicks into high gear. Although, their love may be short lived because the ancestral curse will kill Armend on his 30th birthday which is just around the corner.
Solstice is a race against time to save Armend's life. Will Sofia and Armend's great love beat a deadly curse? Read Solstice and find out.
October 15, 2013
I enjoyed reading Debbie Christiana's "Solstice". Sofia is a powerful Strega and many seem to take a long step back when they find out about her. Even the local church puts on all kinds of demonstrations to drive her and her family away from the land. But she brings them cookies and hot drinks on the cold, rainy days. Despite everything she won't call on dark magic even when it is at her disposal.
When she finds out about the centuries old curse put on Armand's head, she will stop at nothing to save her love.
Only problem is that breaking this curse required more than she has to give. But as I said, she'll stop at nothing. From the posh art gallery in New York to the ruins of Goddess Diana temple, you'll live the incredible journey along side Sofia and Armand. Their love sizzles on the pages and you'll find yourself cheering for their triumphs over a witch wannabe (but still strong enough mostly because she plays dirty) and weep with their falls, but to get dirty she must do one thing she strives not to. However the love always prevails.
When she finds out about the centuries old curse put on Armand's head, she will stop at nothing to save her love.
Only problem is that breaking this curse required more than she has to give. But as I said, she'll stop at nothing. From the posh art gallery in New York to the ruins of Goddess Diana temple, you'll live the incredible journey along side Sofia and Armand. Their love sizzles on the pages and you'll find yourself cheering for their triumphs over a witch wannabe (but still strong enough mostly because she plays dirty) and weep with their falls, but to get dirty she must do one thing she strives not to. However the love always prevails.
July 29, 2013
Solstice is the best sort of paranormal romance--the authentic kind. The author took great pains to get the Strega traditions right. She did her homework, and treated it with respect--with a little extra magic thrown in. It was just enough, and she struck a perfect balance, one that entertains as well as enlightens. The sex sizzles without being sleazy. During those pages the author dove back into the past, to the inception of the curse that dogs Armend's days, I got sucked in and left wanting more. Beautifully written; the author is at her best when tugging at the heartstrings. While it felt a little rushed in places, the author hits her stride especially well in that historic section. Love, love, magic and love--perfect read for these hot summer nights. Or a cold winter one, snuggled under a blanket.
May 25, 2013
When you read a writer’s second novel, you never know what to expect. Will it be as wonderful as the first novel or will it tank? Solstice by Debbie Christiana flew above all of my expectations. I enjoyed it in a different way than I did her first book, Twin Flames, which I absolutely adored.
Sofia and Armend were very likable characters. Armend, with his quick temper was always willing to admit when he was wrong, being a man, that was a lot. Sophia with her earthy and animal loving ways was able to do what she had to do in order to attempt to save Armend’s life, which shouldn’t have surprised me, but it did. Their romance was sweet and the sex scenes were powerful, but not explicit. Although the story was on the darker side, there were many times that Ms. Christiana made me chuckle.
I love a good fight scene and Ms. Christiana did a fantastic job choreographing them. I was tense during the fights. Things (I’d be more specific, but I refuse to give spoilers) zooming through the air and other things entrapping people. It was awesome. Don’t get me started on the villain. Poor crazy bitch (I did not like her at all).
Solstice did not only entertaining me. It impressed me with the gentle education about witchcraft and some of their beliefs. It helped to demystified their ways for me a little bit. In Solstice, witches are people who call on and use nature in order to do their magic. There was nothing fantastical about their witchcraft, it all seemed doable, after some training and practice (Armend learned that the hard way).
Kudos to Debbie Christiana for writing a novel that kept me entertained from beginning to end. If you want a book that you won’t want to put down because you just have to see what will happen next, then I highly recommend Solstice by Debbie Christiana.
Sofia and Armend were very likable characters. Armend, with his quick temper was always willing to admit when he was wrong, being a man, that was a lot. Sophia with her earthy and animal loving ways was able to do what she had to do in order to attempt to save Armend’s life, which shouldn’t have surprised me, but it did. Their romance was sweet and the sex scenes were powerful, but not explicit. Although the story was on the darker side, there were many times that Ms. Christiana made me chuckle.
I love a good fight scene and Ms. Christiana did a fantastic job choreographing them. I was tense during the fights. Things (I’d be more specific, but I refuse to give spoilers) zooming through the air and other things entrapping people. It was awesome. Don’t get me started on the villain. Poor crazy bitch (I did not like her at all).
Solstice did not only entertaining me. It impressed me with the gentle education about witchcraft and some of their beliefs. It helped to demystified their ways for me a little bit. In Solstice, witches are people who call on and use nature in order to do their magic. There was nothing fantastical about their witchcraft, it all seemed doable, after some training and practice (Armend learned that the hard way).
Kudos to Debbie Christiana for writing a novel that kept me entertained from beginning to end. If you want a book that you won’t want to put down because you just have to see what will happen next, then I highly recommend Solstice by Debbie Christiana.
January 24, 2014
This was book was totally not what I expected. The details were sharp, the dialogue quick and I especially enjoyed the different quotes at the beginning of every chapter. The relationship between Sofia and Armend is tense at first but quickly grows, maybe a bit too quickly for my tastes and honestly I felt the urge to smack Armend upside the head a few times. But Sofia was cool. She could take care of herself, she was confident and she always tried to do the right thing.
And the sex between these two! Is it getting hot in here?
Ultimately, I have to say I enjoyed the character of Gina the most. I won't say anymore than that because I don't want to spoil it. Christiana has got a firm handle on her story-telling, for sure.
And the sex between these two! Is it getting hot in here?
Ultimately, I have to say I enjoyed the character of Gina the most. I won't say anymore than that because I don't want to spoil it. Christiana has got a firm handle on her story-telling, for sure.
June 18, 2013
Once again, Debbie Christiana has written a wonderful tale. Solstice is an excellent read which captures your attention from the onset and holds you till the very end. I was very impressed with the apparent amount of research that the author must have put into the creation of this novel. Prior to reading Solstice, I had never heard of this mysterious and magical practice of pagan rituals better known as Strega. After I finished reading the book, I found myself on the computer Googling for further info on this fascinating lore. Not many books will get me to do that. I highly recommend Solstice to all!
April 15, 2015
Really enjoyed this book by Debbie Christiana! The world of the Strega is fascinating and I was so intrigued by the history of the ancient Italian witches (the author definitely did her research). Sofia was a strong, feisty character and I enjoyed her teasing Armend throughout the book. Armend was passionate (and at times sweet, even if he wasn't trying to be :P) and I was definitely rooting for him by the end. The villain is one nasty biznitch but her tactics were oh-so much fun. I loved the family dynamics between Sofia's and Armend's family along with their ancestors' tumultuous past. And the curse--why didn't I think of this?! Also, I LOVED the familiars. <3 Definitely looking forward to more stories from this author.
June 3, 2013
Debbie Christiana’s second book centers around a 250-year old family curse, all set within a love story. I found Sofia and Armend to be likeable characters and enjoyed their journey as they set out to piece together an old sonata that Armend’s ancestor wrote for his forbidden love.
Ms. Christians impressed me with her in depth research on Strega witchcraft as well as a providing a plot with some unexpected twists and some lovely settings (Hudson Valley, NY to Italy). The spells were clever and the action in many scenes was very well-written.
This book is a nice blend of a paranormal world, love story and I would highly recommend it if you’re looking for great beach read this summer.
Ms. Christians impressed me with her in depth research on Strega witchcraft as well as a providing a plot with some unexpected twists and some lovely settings (Hudson Valley, NY to Italy). The spells were clever and the action in many scenes was very well-written.
This book is a nice blend of a paranormal world, love story and I would highly recommend it if you’re looking for great beach read this summer.
July 7, 2013
Loved this book!!! I want more!!! I loved everything about this book, plus I'm fascinated with anything Wiccan, Pagan, witches, spells, you name it, & that's why I loved this book! I'm very lucky to also have a signed copy of this book & bought it for my Kindle! A must read! I can't wait for more from this author!
November 29, 2014
Only because I can’t give it more…
Wait a minuet, yes I can!
Lets it up it to 9 Stars where it belongs!
I have read a few witch/ magic romance novels over the past few years and most have left me disappointed. I wanted more, more of what I’m not sure, but none of them met my expectations.
This one has romance and a whole lot of exciting magic as well, with just a touch or hint at soul mates too. Oh, and I can’t forget the touch of mystery and suspense thrown in as well.
For Armend it is love at first sight when he sees Sophia, but she does not see him and he keeps his distance. Armend does not want to start something that may end too soon.
A curse was set upon his family 250 years ago and when his 30th birthday comes around in December he is convinced it will be his death. Once Sofia does see and fall in love with him she will do anything to make sure that it does not happen!
What they must go through to break the curse is, well, more than the two bargained for on its own. And with less than two months until his 30th birthday they have a lot of work to do.
With their love and the help of both her family and his will they be able to get their hands on two pieces of a centuries old puzzle that will end the curse and save him?
I’m not going to say, you must grab this and find out for yourself!!
This is a must read for so many reasons and I want to go crazy and tell you everything… but I just can’t be the girl who does spoilers. You will just have to trust me when I say that it is a must read!!
Wait a minuet, yes I can!
Lets it up it to 9 Stars where it belongs!
I have read a few witch/ magic romance novels over the past few years and most have left me disappointed. I wanted more, more of what I’m not sure, but none of them met my expectations.
This one has romance and a whole lot of exciting magic as well, with just a touch or hint at soul mates too. Oh, and I can’t forget the touch of mystery and suspense thrown in as well.
For Armend it is love at first sight when he sees Sophia, but she does not see him and he keeps his distance. Armend does not want to start something that may end too soon.
A curse was set upon his family 250 years ago and when his 30th birthday comes around in December he is convinced it will be his death. Once Sofia does see and fall in love with him she will do anything to make sure that it does not happen!
What they must go through to break the curse is, well, more than the two bargained for on its own. And with less than two months until his 30th birthday they have a lot of work to do.
With their love and the help of both her family and his will they be able to get their hands on two pieces of a centuries old puzzle that will end the curse and save him?
I’m not going to say, you must grab this and find out for yourself!!
This is a must read for so many reasons and I want to go crazy and tell you everything… but I just can’t be the girl who does spoilers. You will just have to trust me when I say that it is a must read!!
August 20, 2013
Sofia and her family are Strega, Italian witches. The power of the Diana dagger is to be passed down to her as the Strega of her generation who has been chosen for the honour. She is not sure she wants it but when Armend Zogu comes into her life she realises it could be the only thing to save him. Both of them become caught up in an ancient curse which threatens Armend's life. Together with their families, they fight against an old age curse and a psychotic witch who is intent on destroying everything they have.
This novel could come across as a bit samey from the good and evil aspect but actually this book is very well written and the tale itself is absorbing.
Sofia comes across as a strong role model and the Strega ways as morally good. Strega or Stregheria is an actual form of witchcraft which has aspects of Wicca and is a real nature appreciative religion, worshipping multiple gods. It wasn't something I had heard of until I looked it up once I had started reading the book and I found it really interesting. I enjoy a story with a little fact behind it and the author has done her research, with a little writer's prerogative thrown in, naturally ;)
This novel is fun. It has all the ingredients of a good story; intrigue, love, mystery, murder and more. It was an easy read and I liked it a lot.
This novel could come across as a bit samey from the good and evil aspect but actually this book is very well written and the tale itself is absorbing.
Sofia comes across as a strong role model and the Strega ways as morally good. Strega or Stregheria is an actual form of witchcraft which has aspects of Wicca and is a real nature appreciative religion, worshipping multiple gods. It wasn't something I had heard of until I looked it up once I had started reading the book and I found it really interesting. I enjoy a story with a little fact behind it and the author has done her research, with a little writer's prerogative thrown in, naturally ;)
This novel is fun. It has all the ingredients of a good story; intrigue, love, mystery, murder and more. It was an easy read and I liked it a lot.
February 12, 2015
Magic and witchcraft are not my normal genre, which made stepping into the pages of Solstice a bit like walking into a strange forest. The journey began with anticipation and trepidation. What I discovered surprised me: understanding, compassion, patience, humility and a devote respect for life and nature. These were the qualities of Sophia Palmalosi, the story’s heroine and chosen one in a long line of Strega. Her quest to break a centuries-old curse, and in doing so save the life of the man she loves, has its worthy share of magic, excitement and romance. For a novice such as myself it provided a beautiful introduction to the world of the Strega – a world far different from what I had come to expect when hearing the term witch. Do these humble people who tap the power of nature truly exist? Are the rituals and incantations portrayed in the novel accurately described as passed down through millennium? It would seem that way when explained in the convincing manner of author Debbie Christiana. The more important question is whether you are ready to test your beliefs. If so then I recommend sitting down with a copy of Solstice, perhaps with a glass of Liquore Strega, and taking that first step into the forest.
May 15, 2013
This book tells the story of Armend Zogu, a young man who's been cursed to die at the age of thirty, and Sofia, the women he loves. It's a well-told story that'll keep you turning the pages, but it's not a typical "paranormal romance". In the first place, Sofia and her sister are much stronger witches than any of the men in the story. Ms. Christiana pulls off a neat trick in balancing the relationship between the hero & heroine. Sofia's got more magic, but Armend doesn't come off wimpy or threatened. And the romance? HOT!
I also really loved the portrayal of the Strega, the traditional Italian form of witchcraft. While there are definite magical fireworks, it's all so grounded in the living tradition of the Strega that it feels incredibly realistic. Bravo! Will definitely be recommending this one to friends.
I also really loved the portrayal of the Strega, the traditional Italian form of witchcraft. While there are definite magical fireworks, it's all so grounded in the living tradition of the Strega that it feels incredibly realistic. Bravo! Will definitely be recommending this one to friends.
October 18, 2013
Solstice is an intriguing blend of suspense, witchcraft, and romance that will keep the reader hooked until the last page.
Sofia is a Strega, a traditional Italian witch, and I loved learning about the history and rituals associated with this ancient form of witchcraft. It was a pleasure to read a story with such a strong female character at its center.
As Solstice progresses, Sofia falls in love with Armend and finds herself confronted with a centuries old curse and a powerful witch who is determined to exact revenge on both Sofia and everyone she holds dear. The suspense builds along with Sofia and Armend's love story as they race to break the curse that threatens to destroy their love.
Christiana ends the story with an unexpected and chilling peek at what Sofia and her loved ones may face next. I know I will be anxiously awaiting her next book!
Sofia is a Strega, a traditional Italian witch, and I loved learning about the history and rituals associated with this ancient form of witchcraft. It was a pleasure to read a story with such a strong female character at its center.
As Solstice progresses, Sofia falls in love with Armend and finds herself confronted with a centuries old curse and a powerful witch who is determined to exact revenge on both Sofia and everyone she holds dear. The suspense builds along with Sofia and Armend's love story as they race to break the curse that threatens to destroy their love.
Christiana ends the story with an unexpected and chilling peek at what Sofia and her loved ones may face next. I know I will be anxiously awaiting her next book!
July 9, 2013
Solstice is an amazing, suspenseful story of an old curse working it's way through generations of a family. The main characters include a strega, an Italian witch. I was very impressed with the portrayal of the rituals and ideology of the witches in this book. It is one of a very few books to accurately describe them. The characters were very likable. The story was compelling, and the writing superb.
September 5, 2020
3.5 would be more accurate. Fascinating and detailed introduction to the ancient practice of Strega, Italian witchcraft. The insta-love between Sofia and Armend really killed it for me though. I didn't buy their relationship at all. Sofia is an interesting and likable character but Armend's only personality trait seems to be "loving Sofia." Aaron and Sofia's sister are two of the most interesting characters, even though they're a much smaller part of the story. Not super interested in reading more with these characters.
November 18, 2013
Girl likes strange new boy. Boy likes girl but pretends to not be interested because he has mysterious secrets. Crazy person tries to kill people for no logical reason. Overly-convenient plot throughout. Some anti-Christian sentiments then a hypocritical line or two preaching about bigotry, and a thoroughly un-researched subject matter. There, you read the book.
This is the most ridiculous high school drama I've ever read. If you're not 16 and female (or if you don't have the brain of a 16 year old female) don't touch this one with a 10 foot pole. I found myself skimming about 1/3 of the way though, hoping it would get better but it never did.
This is the most ridiculous high school drama I've ever read. If you're not 16 and female (or if you don't have the brain of a 16 year old female) don't touch this one with a 10 foot pole. I found myself skimming about 1/3 of the way though, hoping it would get better but it never did.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews