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Epiphany #1-3
Epiphany
This edition is no longer available in print or as an ebook.
336 pages, Paperback
First published July 17, 2013
530 people are currently reading
3557 people want to read
About the author
Gemma James
60 books2,574 followersGemma James is a USA Today bestselling author of sexy contemporary and dark romance. She loves to explore the darker side of human nature in her fiction, and she’s morbidly curious about anything dark and edgy, from deviant seduction to fascinating villains. Readers have described her stories as being “not for the faint of heart.”
She warns you to heed their words! Her playground isn’t full of rainbows and kittens, though she loves both. She lives in Oregon with her husband and children, a gaggle of animals, and bipolar weather.
Like her on Facebook or sign up for her newsletter so you don't miss out on future releases!
She warns you to heed their words! Her playground isn’t full of rainbows and kittens, though she loves both. She lives in Oregon with her husband and children, a gaggle of animals, and bipolar weather.
Like her on Facebook or sign up for her newsletter so you don't miss out on future releases!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 196 reviews
July 17, 2015
The author sent me an e-copy of this for an honest review :)
First to the author I'd like to say, You rock!
When I first read the blurb I was very interested and excited and the book didn't disappoint.
It has been awhile since I read a good suspense/mystery romance, and the fact that it's New Adult too made it that much better. This book keeps you interested from the first page. And there are so many twists! It was amazing how I was just, 'lalala reading my book lala everything is good...wait what? What just happened?'
I really liked Mackenzie, I thought considering all the stuff she went through, she was very strong. She held it together in situations that I don't think a lot of people would have been able to do the same. And Aidan was super protective and hot, a wonderful combination ;)
The only thing that I wasn't crazy about was how fast Mackenzie and Aidan's relationship progressed. I understand that the storyline was fast paced so it was kind of necessary, but considering the baggage both of them carried it was hard as the reader to believe how fast they developed trust for each other. Although I don't feel like it took away from the book or even the relationship. It was just something for me that felt off.
I will often rate my books on how long it takes me to emerge from the world the author created, and if it takes me awhile then I know it was a great book. I'm still in Epiphany, I wish the next book in the series was out so I could read it. I want more. I can't wait to read Logan's book.
I highly recommend this book to all my Goodreads friends! You'll enjoy it! :)
First to the author I'd like to say, You rock!
When I first read the blurb I was very interested and excited and the book didn't disappoint.
It has been awhile since I read a good suspense/mystery romance, and the fact that it's New Adult too made it that much better. This book keeps you interested from the first page. And there are so many twists! It was amazing how I was just, 'lalala reading my book lala everything is good...wait what? What just happened?'
I really liked Mackenzie, I thought considering all the stuff she went through, she was very strong. She held it together in situations that I don't think a lot of people would have been able to do the same. And Aidan was super protective and hot, a wonderful combination ;)
The only thing that I wasn't crazy about was how fast Mackenzie and Aidan's relationship progressed. I understand that the storyline was fast paced so it was kind of necessary, but considering the baggage both of them carried it was hard as the reader to believe how fast they developed trust for each other. Although I don't feel like it took away from the book or even the relationship. It was just something for me that felt off.
I will often rate my books on how long it takes me to emerge from the world the author created, and if it takes me awhile then I know it was a great book. I'm still in Epiphany, I wish the next book in the series was out so I could read it. I want more. I can't wait to read Logan's book.
I highly recommend this book to all my Goodreads friends! You'll enjoy it! :)
Read
August 27, 2013I've had the worst luck with books in the last month! This is the 3rd DNF in about 2 weeks and I rarely ever DNF books!
I got to 49% and I just couldn't read anymore. While this was a promising and exciting premise it failed to live up to it.
I had issues with the romance. It didn't feel right and IMO lacked chemistry, build-up, and believability. The romance did not ring true to me.
Then we have a major issue Mackenzie is dealing with that is not revealed until about 42%. No warning, no real foundation. There were just too many issues and plot threads without seeming to focus and expound on any one of them.
I'm not going to rate this because I didn't finish it, but it wasn't my cup of tea.
I got to 49% and I just couldn't read anymore. While this was a promising and exciting premise it failed to live up to it.
I had issues with the romance. It didn't feel right and IMO lacked chemistry, build-up, and believability. The romance did not ring true to me.
Then we have a major issue Mackenzie is dealing with that is not revealed until about 42%. No warning, no real foundation. There were just too many issues and plot threads without seeming to focus and expound on any one of them.
I'm not going to rate this because I didn't finish it, but it wasn't my cup of tea.
Want to read
June 30, 2020💝 FREE on Amazon today (3/19/2018)!💝
Blurb:
The last thing I expect when I move to my mother’s hometown is to run into the guy I’ve been dreaming about for years.
Literally.
Not only have I seen him in my dreams long before meeting him in the flesh, but I run smack into his muscular chest in a bar. Then I puke on him.
Not one of my finer moments.
But things are getting messier. He shows up where I work and has no clue it was me. In fact, there are a lot of things he’s in the dark about.
Like how I’ve dreamed of him yet again, and how I’m terrified for his safety now. A madman has made our small town his new stomping ground, and I’m witness to all the gory details as they unfold like a horror movie every time I close my eyes.
But Aidan’s sexy-as-hell intuitive gaze won’t quit haunting me. He has secrets too, and I’m determined to uncover every last one. Together, we might just heal each other.
If fate and a serial killer don’t get to us first.
Previously published as three parts
Blurb:
The last thing I expect when I move to my mother’s hometown is to run into the guy I’ve been dreaming about for years.
Literally.
Not only have I seen him in my dreams long before meeting him in the flesh, but I run smack into his muscular chest in a bar. Then I puke on him.
Not one of my finer moments.
But things are getting messier. He shows up where I work and has no clue it was me. In fact, there are a lot of things he’s in the dark about.
Like how I’ve dreamed of him yet again, and how I’m terrified for his safety now. A madman has made our small town his new stomping ground, and I’m witness to all the gory details as they unfold like a horror movie every time I close my eyes.
But Aidan’s sexy-as-hell intuitive gaze won’t quit haunting me. He has secrets too, and I’m determined to uncover every last one. Together, we might just heal each other.
If fate and a serial killer don’t get to us first.
Previously published as three parts
August 1, 2017
3-3.5 Holy Shit Stars.
For all the times I’d witnesses the murders of the other women in my dreams, I’d failed to see my own.
That sentence alone had me hooked and then we go to the beginning of how it all starts and I was pissed so I had to keep on reading. After the suck you in prologue and watching the interaction with Six & Mackenzie I felt as if I’d been thrown to some kind of twilight zone and thought that this is going to be some new adult vibe but I was wrong.
Mackenzie moved to Watcher’s Point because that is where her mother is from to get away from what happened to her at home. See spoilers.
Her dreams/visions have led her to Watcher’s Point. But she doesn’t entirely grasp to what situation she has walked into there.
Aidan has come to Watcher’s Point because he has been drawn out by a sick serial killer. He killed his wife and he wants vengeance. That is until he gets involved with Mackenzie and things start changing for him.
This book most certainly has twists and turns to it. It is well written but there was one bomb that was dropped by Mackenzie’s Mum, where I just thought what the fuck?
All in all I love this kind of story with serial killers and psychics having a connection and solving the case. I’m not really a big drama person when it comes to reading but this worked for some inexplainable reason.
I feel as if there is an open end here, will Logan get a book? Will we find out who was the killer in Boise? I have my suspicions. I would have liked to have seen Christie & Mac clean the air between them.
For all the times I’d witnesses the murders of the other women in my dreams, I’d failed to see my own.
That sentence alone had me hooked and then we go to the beginning of how it all starts and I was pissed so I had to keep on reading. After the suck you in prologue and watching the interaction with Six & Mackenzie I felt as if I’d been thrown to some kind of twilight zone and thought that this is going to be some new adult vibe but I was wrong.
Mackenzie moved to Watcher’s Point because that is where her mother is from to get away from what happened to her at home. See spoilers.
Her dreams/visions have led her to Watcher’s Point. But she doesn’t entirely grasp to what situation she has walked into there.
Aidan has come to Watcher’s Point because he has been drawn out by a sick serial killer. He killed his wife and he wants vengeance. That is until he gets involved with Mackenzie and things start changing for him.
This book most certainly has twists and turns to it. It is well written but there was one bomb that was dropped by Mackenzie’s Mum, where I just thought what the fuck?
All in all I love this kind of story with serial killers and psychics having a connection and solving the case. I’m not really a big drama person when it comes to reading but this worked for some inexplainable reason.
I feel as if there is an open end here, will Logan get a book? Will we find out who was the killer in Boise? I have my suspicions. I would have liked to have seen Christie & Mac clean the air between them.
October 11, 2013
The set up
Mackenzie Hill moved to Watcher's Point, Oregon four months ago following disturbing events back at her hometown near Eugene. She also has psychic visions and recently they've turned violent. She also meets Aidan at a party and realizes he's the mysterious, handsome man that's consumed her dreams for the last two years.
The issues
Almost ten years ago, a serial killer called the Boise Hangman terrorized the city bearing his name and then just stopped. Two years ago, he resurfaced and a recent murder in Watcher's Point has startling similarities to those in Boise. Mackenzie had a vision about the this murder but has never told anyone about her unique gift and is reluctant to step forward. Meanwhile, she and Aidan can't seem to avoid their obvious attraction. He's drawn into the situation but has a past he's withholding, too.
What I liked about this story
Mackenzie brings baggage to the story but doesn't spend much time and angst belaboring over her past. She's trying to move forward and create a new life path in spite of learning that the man she believed to be her father wasn't so and is rumored to have been the father of the one enemy she's made since moving to this town. She's got good sensibilities and tries to do the right thing by the investigation, even when it has the potential of exposing her secret. Her psychic abilities were understated and perfectly tempered. Aidan is so appealing and doesn't waste time or emotions masking his feelings toward Mackenzie and she him.
The mystery of the Boise Hangman was in the forefront for the entire story, putting every relationship in question, though about midway I'd honed in on the likely suspect. It was intriguing and I liked how both Mackenzie and Aidan's pasts were slowly revealed, often having a connection to the case. There was also a very awful twist that nearly derailed me but drew me into the story even more.
What I wasn't too crazy about
The families of these two left a lot to be desired and the secrets they withheld bordered on being pretty cruel. They came close to being a bit over the top but stayed within the boundaries just enough to keep me connected to the story.
Mackenzie did a lot of weeping, enough for it to feel as if we'd crossed into the YA territory...not too terribly but there were times I wanted to just tell her to woman up! She also had a couple of TSTL (too stupid to live) moments, especially near the end. And Aidan's tendency to be secretive got annoying after a while when it was clear that behavior was no longer necessary.
The bottom line
I am tiptoeing into this New Adult genre, mostly based on recommendations from friends but this one I decided on my own. My gamble paid off even though there were times the story had a YA cadence, not much but just a little. The mystery element was a real draw and I found that aspect very interesting. I liked the romance and the wisp of the paranormal with Mackenzie's psychic gift, especially since it was within reason. I didn't know this was the beginning of a series and am pretty happy about that. I will definitely be reading the next book.
(I received an ARC from the author)
Mackenzie Hill moved to Watcher's Point, Oregon four months ago following disturbing events back at her hometown near Eugene. She also has psychic visions and recently they've turned violent. She also meets Aidan at a party and realizes he's the mysterious, handsome man that's consumed her dreams for the last two years.
The issues
Almost ten years ago, a serial killer called the Boise Hangman terrorized the city bearing his name and then just stopped. Two years ago, he resurfaced and a recent murder in Watcher's Point has startling similarities to those in Boise. Mackenzie had a vision about the this murder but has never told anyone about her unique gift and is reluctant to step forward. Meanwhile, she and Aidan can't seem to avoid their obvious attraction. He's drawn into the situation but has a past he's withholding, too.
What I liked about this story
Mackenzie brings baggage to the story but doesn't spend much time and angst belaboring over her past. She's trying to move forward and create a new life path in spite of learning that the man she believed to be her father wasn't so and is rumored to have been the father of the one enemy she's made since moving to this town. She's got good sensibilities and tries to do the right thing by the investigation, even when it has the potential of exposing her secret. Her psychic abilities were understated and perfectly tempered. Aidan is so appealing and doesn't waste time or emotions masking his feelings toward Mackenzie and she him.
The mystery of the Boise Hangman was in the forefront for the entire story, putting every relationship in question, though about midway I'd honed in on the likely suspect. It was intriguing and I liked how both Mackenzie and Aidan's pasts were slowly revealed, often having a connection to the case. There was also a very awful twist that nearly derailed me but drew me into the story even more.
What I wasn't too crazy about
The families of these two left a lot to be desired and the secrets they withheld bordered on being pretty cruel. They came close to being a bit over the top but stayed within the boundaries just enough to keep me connected to the story.
Mackenzie did a lot of weeping, enough for it to feel as if we'd crossed into the YA territory...not too terribly but there were times I wanted to just tell her to woman up! She also had a couple of TSTL (too stupid to live) moments, especially near the end. And Aidan's tendency to be secretive got annoying after a while when it was clear that behavior was no longer necessary.
The bottom line
I am tiptoeing into this New Adult genre, mostly based on recommendations from friends but this one I decided on my own. My gamble paid off even though there were times the story had a YA cadence, not much but just a little. The mystery element was a real draw and I found that aspect very interesting. I liked the romance and the wisp of the paranormal with Mackenzie's psychic gift, especially since it was within reason. I didn't know this was the beginning of a series and am pretty happy about that. I will definitely be reading the next book.
(I received an ARC from the author)
September 6, 2013
Copy provided by author for an honest review.
Shocked and Wow!! Christina Jean Michaels knows how to write a book that will definitely capture any readers attention. Let me first say this book starts with a bang with an awesome prologue that will hook its readers into this romantic suspenseful story. Epiphany had angst, suspense, love, romance, mystery, deceit, traumatic pasts and hidden truths. This book is a definitely a page turner and will have its readers on the edge of their seats trying to figure out who is the serial killer and with the revelations of hidden secrets, truths, and past.
The heroine, Mackenzie has these prophetic dreams that she can see the past, present, and future ever since she was a child but only got stronger visions as she grew older. The dreams that haunts Mackenzie are the sadistic and brutal serial murders of innocent women. She also has been dreaming of a man named Aiden for a couple of years in great intimate detail. Through her dreams, she feels an instant connection to Aiden and has loved him even though they haven't met each other yet.
Murders were taking place in the small town where Mackenzie was currently living. Aiden happens to be in town investigating the murder trying to find the killer since he has a close connection to it. When Mackenzie and Aiden meet there is an instant connection between the two and a common bond between them: find and try to stop the killer.With the help of Mackenzie's dreams/visions, both Aiden and her tries to uncover and prevent another murder from occurring. I really loved the relationship of Aiden and Mackenzie because you could feel their strong love, bond and protection they have for each other. I really like how they began opening up to one another and started trusting one another. After reading this book, I could without a doubt say that these two were meant to find each other.
While trying to figure out who is the killer, this book will surprise you with its hidden secrets, past, deception, truth and revelations. The author did a fantastic job in weaving new surprises and shocks that played an integral part to the story-line. There were moments in the book i found myself saying "OMG" and "NO!!!!" with all the unexpected surprises that occurred.
I highly recommend this book and I look forward to reading Logan's story in the next book.
.Christina Jean Michaels
******4.5 romantic suspenseful stars****
Shocked and Wow!! Christina Jean Michaels knows how to write a book that will definitely capture any readers attention. Let me first say this book starts with a bang with an awesome prologue that will hook its readers into this romantic suspenseful story. Epiphany had angst, suspense, love, romance, mystery, deceit, traumatic pasts and hidden truths. This book is a definitely a page turner and will have its readers on the edge of their seats trying to figure out who is the serial killer and with the revelations of hidden secrets, truths, and past.
"For all the times I’d witnessed the murders of other women in my dreams, I’d failed to see my own."
The heroine, Mackenzie has these prophetic dreams that she can see the past, present, and future ever since she was a child but only got stronger visions as she grew older. The dreams that haunts Mackenzie are the sadistic and brutal serial murders of innocent women. She also has been dreaming of a man named Aiden for a couple of years in great intimate detail. Through her dreams, she feels an instant connection to Aiden and has loved him even though they haven't met each other yet.
Murders were taking place in the small town where Mackenzie was currently living. Aiden happens to be in town investigating the murder trying to find the killer since he has a close connection to it. When Mackenzie and Aiden meet there is an instant connection between the two and a common bond between them: find and try to stop the killer.With the help of Mackenzie's dreams/visions, both Aiden and her tries to uncover and prevent another murder from occurring. I really loved the relationship of Aiden and Mackenzie because you could feel their strong love, bond and protection they have for each other. I really like how they began opening up to one another and started trusting one another. After reading this book, I could without a doubt say that these two were meant to find each other.
While trying to figure out who is the killer, this book will surprise you with its hidden secrets, past, deception, truth and revelations. The author did a fantastic job in weaving new surprises and shocks that played an integral part to the story-line. There were moments in the book i found myself saying "OMG" and "NO!!!!" with all the unexpected surprises that occurred.
I highly recommend this book and I look forward to reading Logan's story in the next book.
.Christina Jean Michaels
December 11, 2017
4.5 Stars
Ever kick yourself for letting a book lanquish in your TBR for ever???? Epiphany waited in my kindle for nearly two years before I finally decided it was time and I'm kicking myself....HARD.
I didn't even finish the first chapter before I knew....just knew....this book was going to blow me away. The writing is that good. Reading this was like watching it on TV, only better! Every scene was so vivid, every emotion felt at my core and the tension was like teetering on the edge of a cliff. Seriously, don't make the same mistake I did. This book doesn't deserve to lay dormant in any ereader or TBR. A serial killer on the loose, a mysterious but oh so hot stranger in town and a heroine with horrific dreams, what's not to love?!
This was not quite five starts because I felt the ending was unnecessarily prolonged. I didn't need the added drama in getting things tied up.
Ever kick yourself for letting a book lanquish in your TBR for ever???? Epiphany waited in my kindle for nearly two years before I finally decided it was time and I'm kicking myself....HARD.
I didn't even finish the first chapter before I knew....just knew....this book was going to blow me away. The writing is that good. Reading this was like watching it on TV, only better! Every scene was so vivid, every emotion felt at my core and the tension was like teetering on the edge of a cliff. Seriously, don't make the same mistake I did. This book doesn't deserve to lay dormant in any ereader or TBR. A serial killer on the loose, a mysterious but oh so hot stranger in town and a heroine with horrific dreams, what's not to love?!
This was not quite five starts because I felt the ending was unnecessarily prolonged. I didn't need the added drama in getting things tied up.
May 24, 2024
I really don’t know. It was interesting, but left me with way too many unanswered questions. Also, I don’t know how I feel about the relationship between Mackenzie and Aiden. The weird revelation that’s sorta not a problem, but still feels kinda weird, is not even really my main problem. It’s the fact that I feel like Aiden isn’t over Deb. I feel like he latched onto Mackenzie because of his need to protect her. He couldn’t protect his wife and I feel like he projected a lot of that onto Mackenzie. I don’t know, I have a lot of feeling about them together that is hard to put into words.
August 5, 2013
For all the times I’d witnessed the murders of other women in my dreams, I’d failed to see my own.
Wow!! The prologue really will have your heart pounding before the story’s even begun. After that incredible beginning, we jump back one month in time and tell the story leading up to that moment.
Our heroine is Mackenzie, who’s been besieged by prophetic dreams most of her life and has lately been dreaming about sadistic and grisly murders in the small town she’s recently moved to. She’s also been dreaming of a man, in great and intimate detail, who she knows she loves but has never yet met. Until now. She bumps into Aidan, quite literally the man of her dreams, when she’s a bit of a drunken mess on a night out with her best friend. He, of course, has no idea who she is.
And so we go on from here – the body count steadily rises, the threat seems to edge ever closer to Mackenzie, nothing is at it seems and no one is who they first appear to be. This was a great mix of romance and suspense – so much deceit, duplicity and cover-ups and traumatic pasts all combine to give a great edge-of-your-pants ride through a novel where I totally didn’t know or expect what was coming next.
Mackenzie’s a great heroine – a girl who sees her gift as a curse. I felt how lost she was as she dreamt of the horrific murders before they took place knowing that no one was likely to take her seriously. The only person that believes her is Aidan and he has good reason to want to track down the murderer but, being close to him, will ultimately prove to be the greatest threat to Mackenzie.
I really did love Aidan a lot – had a bit of a crush on him. He’s only a year down the line from a horrific tragedy and loss and I felt keenly how he was holding all that sorrow at bay and I loved how his stone-cold heart started to thaw out a little as he found himself developing strong feelings for Mackenzie – love and protection.
I don’t very often read romantic suspense before but Christina Jean Michaels is a pseudonym for an author I’ve read and enjoyed before so I decided to give it a go. It’s full of unexpected twists and turns and the story spins on a knife-point more than once with a pulsating, dramatic conclusion. At times, it seems almost impossible to imagine a happy ever after, and you’ll see what I mean when you read it, but we do eventually get there.
4 thrilling stars
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September 29, 2016
My girl does it AGAIN!!! Gemma hit us with the whammy right in the ole ticker with this one!
Mackenzie has never been the popular girl. She never had a chance. Lies, deceit, manipulation, and her "gift" ensure minimum contact with anyone. Enters Aiden. Their attraction to each other is obvious and could progress except.....
Aiden lost his wife to a serial killer or so he believes. He's followed the killer to Mackenzie's small town. And the drama begins and end here! The killer is in charge. I'm amazed the author captured the personality of a killer and how he appeared so normal. The demons in dude are staggering! Things are turned upside down and back around in this small town! Can Aiden move on and allow things to progress with Mackenzie? Will he have the opportunity? The killer is determined to kill a lot of people in this small town. No one is safe.
The drama in this story, especially the final 30%, is like super crazy! ERMAGAD! I could barely stand the suspense and the unveil of all the secrets and lies! Total adrenaline rush!
5 stars!
Mackenzie has never been the popular girl. She never had a chance. Lies, deceit, manipulation, and her "gift" ensure minimum contact with anyone. Enters Aiden. Their attraction to each other is obvious and could progress except.....
Aiden lost his wife to a serial killer or so he believes. He's followed the killer to Mackenzie's small town. And the drama begins and end here! The killer is in charge. I'm amazed the author captured the personality of a killer and how he appeared so normal. The demons in dude are staggering! Things are turned upside down and back around in this small town! Can Aiden move on and allow things to progress with Mackenzie? Will he have the opportunity? The killer is determined to kill a lot of people in this small town. No one is safe.
The drama in this story, especially the final 30%, is like super crazy! ERMAGAD! I could barely stand the suspense and the unveil of all the secrets and lies! Total adrenaline rush!
5 stars!
February 24, 2020
Just above average
This was well written, and I really like this author, however, this one was a let down for me. Not sure why, maybe because I didn’t really feel a connection with Aiden. It was not deep enough for me. The chemistry between Aiden and Mac was good, and there were many enjoyable moments, but it was not really memorable for me. Will read more of this author though. 3.5 stars.
This was well written, and I really like this author, however, this one was a let down for me. Not sure why, maybe because I didn’t really feel a connection with Aiden. It was not deep enough for me. The chemistry between Aiden and Mac was good, and there were many enjoyable moments, but it was not really memorable for me. Will read more of this author though. 3.5 stars.
February 19, 2025
Jag brukar inte vara alltför intresserad av mordgåtor, men den här var faktiskt riktigt spännande. Kanske hade det att göra med de övernaturliga inslagen (som tack och lov inte var alltför dominerande)? Eller berg och dalbanan som deras familjerelationer utgjorde? Oavsett så var jag investerad från början till slut.
July 27, 2013
4.5-5 stars
Dare I mention the word "perfect" in this review? I'll use it in context of my feelings for this novel. Let me start off by saying the romance and the suspense were plotted impeccably. Truly, if you're a fan of either, they run concurrent to each other, and the plot doesn't start off as romance, and then suddenly at 50% everything is action! murder! running! Each scene is written so well, the conflict building. I wasn't far into this book before my heart was racing (for two different reasons). The romance and suspense built each time, never sagging, never forced or stupid things thrown in by Christina Jean Michaels just to make the 300 pages to get to a happy ending. I was enthralled the whole time, almost always wishing I could read more than I was able to with each reading session.
In a world where quick and easy reads are one of the most popular kinds of books, I adore this one for being so quick to want to read, but also so developed. The main characters started with their issues and hurdles in their way and even when a kissing or sexy scene was thrown in or there was suspense or chases, each scene uncovered more clues and developed the characters, and I was really satisfied by the end when Christina made me happy with how things tied up.
Only thing that wasn't as satisfying was that Aidan (a main character and love interest) was too controlling and dominating at times. I absolutely love how heroic and protective his nature was, but not always.
I really, really loved this and hope people who read my review try this book too. It would be a shame for you to miss out.
4.5-5 stars
Dare I mention the word "perfect" in this review? I'll use it in context of my feelings for this novel. Let me start off by saying the romance and the suspense were plotted impeccably. Truly, if you're a fan of either, they run concurrent to each other, and the plot doesn't start off as romance, and then suddenly at 50% everything is action! murder! running! Each scene is written so well, the conflict building. I wasn't far into this book before my heart was racing (for two different reasons). The romance and suspense built each time, never sagging, never forced or stupid things thrown in by Christina Jean Michaels just to make the 300 pages to get to a happy ending. I was enthralled the whole time, almost always wishing I could read more than I was able to with each reading session.
In a world where quick and easy reads are one of the most popular kinds of books, I adore this one for being so quick to want to read, but also so developed. The main characters started with their issues and hurdles in their way and even when a kissing or sexy scene was thrown in or there was suspense or chases, each scene uncovered more clues and developed the characters, and I was really satisfied by the end when Christina made me happy with how things tied up.
Only thing that wasn't as satisfying was that Aidan (a main character and love interest) was too controlling and dominating at times. I absolutely love how heroic and protective his nature was, but not always.
I really, really loved this and hope people who read my review try this book too. It would be a shame for you to miss out.
4.5-5 stars
October 19, 2014
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This is another book that started off a little bumpy for me but totally sucked me in by the 30% part and by the end it knocked me totally on my ass.
This story had a hint of paranormal but was totally Romantic Suspense. The mystery had me thinking I was watching CSI in the twilight zone.
Aidan Payne is right up there with the perfect book boyfriends and was a true Hero of my heart.
Mackenzie and Aidan met in person in the most embarrassing way they could have. But Mackenzie had known Aidan for so long but only in her dreams , literally.
Her gift wasn't something she could embrace, it haunted her in so many ways.
Aidan was the only light in a darkness of dreams and nightmares
A killer is on the loose and Aidan's past is tangled up right in the middle of it. Add in loads of secondary characters and moments of SHOCK and
NOOOOOO !!! <
ere is now way the author would put me through this. So I kept reading and am so glad I did. This story will keep you guessing till the last page. I loved this sweet yet sensual love story with a huge dose of mystery. A definite winner on all accounts.
July 21, 2013
4.5 stars
"If I never let you go, it'll be too soon."
When I first saw Epiphany on Goodreads, I immediately placed it on my "want to read" shelf. It looked different from the norm that I've been reading....and it is. When I began reading the prologue, I was completely on edge and felt the fear of the heroine, MacKenzie. I was connected that quickly. Christina Jean Michaels has written a novel with the perfect blend of romance, suspense, and mystery.
I loved MacKenzie's character in this novel. She is reserved and so mature at only twenty-three years old. She keeps to herself and other than going to her job at a local bar, she only goes out socially when dragged by her friend and coworker, Six. MacKenzie is different... gifted, you could say. She has secrets that she keeps hidden for fear that people would judge her as being either crazy or a liar. Her gift...or curse, depending on how you see it...is within her dreams. MacKenzie dreams every time she sleeps, and her dreams become reality, pictures of the present and the past. She doesn't call herself psychic, but that's pretty much what she is. She has a natural curiosity that both helps her in her amateur sleuthing and hurts her by bringing her a little too close to a serial killer.
For all the times I'd witnessed the murders of other women in my dreams, I'd failed to see my own.
Aidan is all that and a box of chocolate truffles. He is the perfect book boyfriend, but he has secrets of his own and has arrived in MacKenzie's town with a specific purpose. He's pegged as trouble by the locals, but MacKenzie's natural curiosity...and the fact that she's dreamed about this man for two years, get the better of her. The mystery that surrounds Aidan kept me wondering if he is a good guy or the bad guy. The more Aidan and MacKenzie work to unravel the mystery relating MacKenzie's dreams to the serial killings happening in town, the more Aidan looks to have a little too much in common with the killer known as The Hangman. He certainly has a hidden agenda, and we've all fallen for the bad guy as a book boyfriend sometime or another, right? Aidan has a mysterious dark side to him laced with vengeance, but he also is caring and so very protective of MacKenzie.
Aidan's gaze roamed over my face and then stopped on my mouth. "I don't know whether to kiss you or lock you in a closet and guard the damn door."
"I vote for kissing, unless you plan to join me in the closet."
I admit that the author kept me guessing all the way through this novel. It is filled with secrets, lies, betrayals, and brutal murders. Just when I knew that I knew who the killer was and all the secrets had to be exposed, the gears were switched and something had me second guessing. One secret led to another and another and so on. While my original guess turned out to be correct, I still second guessed and changed my mind several times throughout my reading. I never really knew for sure. I loved that! I love to be kept wondering and on edge with the suspense of what will happen next.
There were a few times that I was stopping and backing up in my reading, screaming, "Whoa!" Did that really just happen?! Something so out of left field? No, it didn't just happen, except in MacKenzie's dreams. The author has a way of taking you directly into the horror of MacKenzie's dreams and keeping you guessing all the way through, trying to solve the mystery right along with MacKenzie and Aidan.
The chemistry between these two was right on the edge, and when they finally came together.....well, I might have fist bumped the air a couple of times and thrown out a woot woot! :wink: I'm certainly not ready for their story to end, and I would love to see them take their sleuthing farther in the series. I don't like to compare series and this is not at all like a series I'm about to mention, but I would love to see MacKenzie and Aidan continue book after book as do Perry and Dex in another well known series. I will put the Aidan files up against the Dex files any day of the week. Both characters can go so much farther, and I would love to see that happen.
There are a lot of secrets revealed as the story unfolds; and all of the mystery, lies, betrayals, and murders personally involve these two amateur detectives who just want to live in peace. Christina Jean Michaels has written a suspenseful whodunnit filled with romance and angst that will have you guessing all the way through. The writing is smooth, flawless, and demonstrative of a true author with talent and skill.
I'm really excited to learn that Aidan's brother, Logan Payne, will have the next book. Logan has gifts and secrets of his own that need to be revealed, so I'm eager to see exactly where the author will take this series. Awakening, book 2 in the Legacy of Payne series, doesn't have a release date, yet, but I will be watching for it on Goodreads to readily add it to my shelves. Epiphany is one of those books that you really need to pay close attention to every word just so you can experience the aha! moments and the whoa! I didn't see that coming moments that will captivate you from beginning to end. I recommend this book to those who love a good mystery and need a change of pace from the routine and trendy romance.
"You might have seen me coming," he began, dropping to his knees and slowly dragging my zipper down, "but I can't say the same. You knocked me on my ass." His eyes were bright as he gazed up at me. "We haven't known each other very long, [...]
A smile played on my lips as I weaved my fingers through his hair, and I thought about how wrong he was. I'd known him for years -- he just hadn't realized it.
"If I never let you go, it'll be too soon."
When I first saw Epiphany on Goodreads, I immediately placed it on my "want to read" shelf. It looked different from the norm that I've been reading....and it is. When I began reading the prologue, I was completely on edge and felt the fear of the heroine, MacKenzie. I was connected that quickly. Christina Jean Michaels has written a novel with the perfect blend of romance, suspense, and mystery.
I loved MacKenzie's character in this novel. She is reserved and so mature at only twenty-three years old. She keeps to herself and other than going to her job at a local bar, she only goes out socially when dragged by her friend and coworker, Six. MacKenzie is different... gifted, you could say. She has secrets that she keeps hidden for fear that people would judge her as being either crazy or a liar. Her gift...or curse, depending on how you see it...is within her dreams. MacKenzie dreams every time she sleeps, and her dreams become reality, pictures of the present and the past. She doesn't call herself psychic, but that's pretty much what she is. She has a natural curiosity that both helps her in her amateur sleuthing and hurts her by bringing her a little too close to a serial killer.
For all the times I'd witnessed the murders of other women in my dreams, I'd failed to see my own.
Aidan is all that and a box of chocolate truffles. He is the perfect book boyfriend, but he has secrets of his own and has arrived in MacKenzie's town with a specific purpose. He's pegged as trouble by the locals, but MacKenzie's natural curiosity...and the fact that she's dreamed about this man for two years, get the better of her. The mystery that surrounds Aidan kept me wondering if he is a good guy or the bad guy. The more Aidan and MacKenzie work to unravel the mystery relating MacKenzie's dreams to the serial killings happening in town, the more Aidan looks to have a little too much in common with the killer known as The Hangman. He certainly has a hidden agenda, and we've all fallen for the bad guy as a book boyfriend sometime or another, right? Aidan has a mysterious dark side to him laced with vengeance, but he also is caring and so very protective of MacKenzie.
Aidan's gaze roamed over my face and then stopped on my mouth. "I don't know whether to kiss you or lock you in a closet and guard the damn door."
"I vote for kissing, unless you plan to join me in the closet."
I admit that the author kept me guessing all the way through this novel. It is filled with secrets, lies, betrayals, and brutal murders. Just when I knew that I knew who the killer was and all the secrets had to be exposed, the gears were switched and something had me second guessing. One secret led to another and another and so on. While my original guess turned out to be correct, I still second guessed and changed my mind several times throughout my reading. I never really knew for sure. I loved that! I love to be kept wondering and on edge with the suspense of what will happen next.
There were a few times that I was stopping and backing up in my reading, screaming, "Whoa!" Did that really just happen?! Something so out of left field? No, it didn't just happen, except in MacKenzie's dreams. The author has a way of taking you directly into the horror of MacKenzie's dreams and keeping you guessing all the way through, trying to solve the mystery right along with MacKenzie and Aidan.
The chemistry between these two was right on the edge, and when they finally came together.....well, I might have fist bumped the air a couple of times and thrown out a woot woot! :wink: I'm certainly not ready for their story to end, and I would love to see them take their sleuthing farther in the series. I don't like to compare series and this is not at all like a series I'm about to mention, but I would love to see MacKenzie and Aidan continue book after book as do Perry and Dex in another well known series. I will put the Aidan files up against the Dex files any day of the week. Both characters can go so much farther, and I would love to see that happen.
There are a lot of secrets revealed as the story unfolds; and all of the mystery, lies, betrayals, and murders personally involve these two amateur detectives who just want to live in peace. Christina Jean Michaels has written a suspenseful whodunnit filled with romance and angst that will have you guessing all the way through. The writing is smooth, flawless, and demonstrative of a true author with talent and skill.
I'm really excited to learn that Aidan's brother, Logan Payne, will have the next book. Logan has gifts and secrets of his own that need to be revealed, so I'm eager to see exactly where the author will take this series. Awakening, book 2 in the Legacy of Payne series, doesn't have a release date, yet, but I will be watching for it on Goodreads to readily add it to my shelves. Epiphany is one of those books that you really need to pay close attention to every word just so you can experience the aha! moments and the whoa! I didn't see that coming moments that will captivate you from beginning to end. I recommend this book to those who love a good mystery and need a change of pace from the routine and trendy romance.
"You might have seen me coming," he began, dropping to his knees and slowly dragging my zipper down, "but I can't say the same. You knocked me on my ass." His eyes were bright as he gazed up at me. "We haven't known each other very long, [...]
A smile played on my lips as I weaved my fingers through his hair, and I thought about how wrong he was. I'd known him for years -- he just hadn't realized it.
August 13, 2013
4.5 Stars
Christina Jean Michaels has just taken me on a journey filled with, suspense, romance, mystery and a storyline that held my interest through every page! This is by far one of my favorite suspense, romance novels I have read.
Twenty three old Mackenzie has had a tough life already in her young life. She moves away from her gome town suddenly to get away from someone who has hurt her in the worst way possible. Mackenzie is happy to just lay low, keep to herself. Her friend and Co-Worker Six likes to party and is always trying to get her to go out bar hopping.
Mackenzie has a gift that many would also consider a curse. She has had dreams from the past and the future that haunt her. They are not flower and sunshine dreams either!!! Her dreams bring her close to "The Hangman" a known serial killer. There is one recurring dreamn about a tall, built, sexy man than she feels connected to!
What would you do if the man you've dreamed about for several years suddenly shows up in the bar you're working at? Hmmmmm! Blink your eyes, pinch yourself a few times? Yup! Mackenzie was speechless, with her jaw on the floor she had to ask Six to cover for her so she could gather herself! Aiden, *sighs* he is mysterious, handsome, and I wasn't sure he could be trusted at all. I felt like he has way too many secrets and wasn't willing to divulge any of them to Mackenzie.
Aiden started showing up at the bar every evening, Mackenzie has a disturbing dream about Aiden and she ended up saving his life. Shortly after they became inseparable and worked together to try to unravel the web of the serial killers patterns. Aiden has his own agenda against The Hangman that is personal and could get them both murdered! I was kept on the edge of my seat, trying to figure out everything, there were many twists, they both have shocking information given to them about their families! Just when I thought I had everything figured out, NOPE! No way. Not even close.
I loved how Mackenzie and Aiden started opening up to each other, trusting each other. The sexual tension between them was unbearable at times. When they finally gave into their feelings and desires I yelled out YES! I loved them together, they were so meant to be!
I highly recommend this amazing novel that you will think about long after you've finished reading! Good news! There will be a second book. Awakening, we will learn much more about the mysterious, handsome Logan Payne ( Aiden's Brother )he has his own gifts and mysteries to be solved! I cannot wait!
Happy reading.
Patty
Christina Jean Michaels has just taken me on a journey filled with, suspense, romance, mystery and a storyline that held my interest through every page! This is by far one of my favorite suspense, romance novels I have read.
Twenty three old Mackenzie has had a tough life already in her young life. She moves away from her gome town suddenly to get away from someone who has hurt her in the worst way possible. Mackenzie is happy to just lay low, keep to herself. Her friend and Co-Worker Six likes to party and is always trying to get her to go out bar hopping.
Mackenzie has a gift that many would also consider a curse. She has had dreams from the past and the future that haunt her. They are not flower and sunshine dreams either!!! Her dreams bring her close to "The Hangman" a known serial killer. There is one recurring dreamn about a tall, built, sexy man than she feels connected to!
What would you do if the man you've dreamed about for several years suddenly shows up in the bar you're working at? Hmmmmm! Blink your eyes, pinch yourself a few times? Yup! Mackenzie was speechless, with her jaw on the floor she had to ask Six to cover for her so she could gather herself! Aiden, *sighs* he is mysterious, handsome, and I wasn't sure he could be trusted at all. I felt like he has way too many secrets and wasn't willing to divulge any of them to Mackenzie.
Aiden started showing up at the bar every evening, Mackenzie has a disturbing dream about Aiden and she ended up saving his life. Shortly after they became inseparable and worked together to try to unravel the web of the serial killers patterns. Aiden has his own agenda against The Hangman that is personal and could get them both murdered! I was kept on the edge of my seat, trying to figure out everything, there were many twists, they both have shocking information given to them about their families! Just when I thought I had everything figured out, NOPE! No way. Not even close.
I loved how Mackenzie and Aiden started opening up to each other, trusting each other. The sexual tension between them was unbearable at times. When they finally gave into their feelings and desires I yelled out YES! I loved them together, they were so meant to be!
I highly recommend this amazing novel that you will think about long after you've finished reading! Good news! There will be a second book. Awakening, we will learn much more about the mysterious, handsome Logan Payne ( Aiden's Brother )he has his own gifts and mysteries to be solved! I cannot wait!
Happy reading.
Patty
November 1, 2013
5 Absolutely Unpredictable Stars!
The story begins with prologue which takes place a month before the actual events occur.
"For all the times I’d witnessed the murders of other women in my dreams, I’d failed to see my own."
Mackenzie has an amazing gift where she can predict the future or see the past in her dreams. After going through a tragic time in her life, she left her family and moved to her mother's city where she hoped to find answers. But the answers that she want to find only added more questions, specially when she starts having detailed dreams about murders of young woman.
Right when things couldn't get more stranger, she sees the guy who's been haunted her dreams - mysterious and dark hottie. Feeling instant connection with him, she cannot stand to think of being away for one more minute.
This was an amazing read full of twists and unexpected events. The thing that even surprised it was that even with prologue, the story did not turned out the way I thought it would. Mackenzie and Aidan really had something special between them and with all the tragic events that happen, I rooted for them to stay together. This must be my new favorite author!
September 6, 2013
It is a good read, suspenseful and interesting enough to hold one's curiosity till the end. It is a mystery thriller tinged with supernaturalism. Mackenzie, heartbroken and running from her past, is gifted (or cursed)and she 'sees things' in her dreams. Aidan, racked by a tragedy and burning in his own personal hell, is the person Mac has always dreamt about. They come together to catch a psycho-killer who's torturing women to death and has a personal interest in hurting anyone Aidan loves. This makes Mackenzie a target. The book becomes nail-bitting at times. But the identity of the killer is kinda buzzkill since he doesn't appear to be smart or experienced enough to carry out such horrific crimes so neatly and evade capture for so long. Even the reason for his perversity doesn't adequately justify his monstrous cruelties. The book nevertheless is engaging and at times reminds one of hit CBS T.V. series "The Mentalist" and its ever elusive adversary Red John.
March 20, 2016
3.5***
May 31, 2024
Highly enjoyable
This book was so easy to read. It had mystery, suspense, romance. I came across a random add for this read and I'm glad I gave it a chance.
This book was so easy to read. It had mystery, suspense, romance. I came across a random add for this read and I'm glad I gave it a chance.
July 20, 2013
4.5 out of 5 Stars
I received a copy of this story for an honest review.
Christina Jean Michaels debut novel “Epiphany” is an engrossing and intense romantic suspense story that hooked me early. Once I started reading it I had a hard time putting it down for pesky things like sleep, work, or paying attention to my hubby (sorry babe). I could not believe that this was a book from a first time author. Also, I have a special place in my heart for books that gross genres and “Epiphany” does that very skillfully. There’s mystery, danger, romance, and a steaminess that’s trademark New Adult. This is a very solid read.
Twenty-three year-old Mackenzie Hill is doing her best to restart her life in her mother’s hometown of Watcher’s Point. The problem is the prophetic dreams that have haunted her since she was a child are getting more violent and more terrifying. She trudges through day-to-day life until she’s faced with her literal ‘dream man’ Aidan Payne. Mackenzie knows Aidan’s face well as he’s been featured in her nighttime visions for years. His entrance into her life is anything but accident.
“In the middle of the funhouse chaos stood the man I’d dreamed about countless times. He turned away, but not before I glimpsed despair in his eyes.”
Aidan lost his wife to a serial killer by the name of the Boise Hangman and he’s out for revenge. They key to finding the madman responsible lies in those frightening dreams that Mackenzie can’t stop.
“My dreams held me prisoner in fragmented horror. Sound bites of tortured pleas… a flash of waves trailing down the naked curve of a woman’s back…”
Mackenzie and Aidan have amazing chemistry and the development of their relationship is believable. Both have suffered tremendous losses but continue to fight without coming across as whiny or desperate. The two are damaged but doing the best they can to move cope and move forward. Their struggle to accept a little happiness with each other while faced with mounting danger is touching.
“Though we didn’t voice it, the fear was there stifling the air. He couldn’t guarantee his safety any more than I could mine, and the fact that I’d dreamed of his death was something I suspected neither of us wanted to face.”
Michaels does a great job of keeping the reader guessing. When the Big Bad of the story was finally revealed, I was pleasantly surprised and confess I had pegged the wrong character.
“His expression was so empty – distorted into something unrecognizable – that if took me a few seconds to realize who towered over me. I couldn’t comprehend what I was seeing.”
My one small complaint (and it’s a super teeny one) is that the story at points almost feels too big. Michaels has ambitiously crafted a very detailed world with multiple plot elements and sometimes it got hard for me to hone in on what should be the core focus of the story. Poor Mackenzie has to juggle hiding a life-time of psychic visions, coping with the after effects of being violently assaulted, being betrayed by her childhood sweetheart, lies about her paternity, dealing with a jealous/drunk possible half-sister, unwanted attention from an insistent suitor, and becoming a potential target of a serial killer. Then there’s Aidan coping with the death of his wife, the loss of his journalism career, the interference of his super wealthy/super powerful father, odd interactions with his empathic brother, lies about his paternity, alcohol dependency, and the growing task of keeping Mackenzie safe.
Separately all of the pieces are interesting and very well written but put together as the story builds; it occasionally feels a tad too much. The large scope of the story may tie in to the fact that “Epiphany” is part of a planned series called “Legacy of Payne.” The second novel in the story will be called “Awakening,” and will focus on Logan Payne, Aidan’s brother.
Overall, I found “Epiphany” to be an exciting, enjoyable read and I highly recommend checking it out. “Awakening” will be going straight onto my TBR list and I’m looking forward to see what Christina Jean Michaels has in-store next.
Happy Reading.
I received a copy of this story for an honest review.
Christina Jean Michaels debut novel “Epiphany” is an engrossing and intense romantic suspense story that hooked me early. Once I started reading it I had a hard time putting it down for pesky things like sleep, work, or paying attention to my hubby (sorry babe). I could not believe that this was a book from a first time author. Also, I have a special place in my heart for books that gross genres and “Epiphany” does that very skillfully. There’s mystery, danger, romance, and a steaminess that’s trademark New Adult. This is a very solid read.
Twenty-three year-old Mackenzie Hill is doing her best to restart her life in her mother’s hometown of Watcher’s Point. The problem is the prophetic dreams that have haunted her since she was a child are getting more violent and more terrifying. She trudges through day-to-day life until she’s faced with her literal ‘dream man’ Aidan Payne. Mackenzie knows Aidan’s face well as he’s been featured in her nighttime visions for years. His entrance into her life is anything but accident.
“In the middle of the funhouse chaos stood the man I’d dreamed about countless times. He turned away, but not before I glimpsed despair in his eyes.”
Aidan lost his wife to a serial killer by the name of the Boise Hangman and he’s out for revenge. They key to finding the madman responsible lies in those frightening dreams that Mackenzie can’t stop.
“My dreams held me prisoner in fragmented horror. Sound bites of tortured pleas… a flash of waves trailing down the naked curve of a woman’s back…”
Mackenzie and Aidan have amazing chemistry and the development of their relationship is believable. Both have suffered tremendous losses but continue to fight without coming across as whiny or desperate. The two are damaged but doing the best they can to move cope and move forward. Their struggle to accept a little happiness with each other while faced with mounting danger is touching.
“Though we didn’t voice it, the fear was there stifling the air. He couldn’t guarantee his safety any more than I could mine, and the fact that I’d dreamed of his death was something I suspected neither of us wanted to face.”
Michaels does a great job of keeping the reader guessing. When the Big Bad of the story was finally revealed, I was pleasantly surprised and confess I had pegged the wrong character.
“His expression was so empty – distorted into something unrecognizable – that if took me a few seconds to realize who towered over me. I couldn’t comprehend what I was seeing.”
My one small complaint (and it’s a super teeny one) is that the story at points almost feels too big. Michaels has ambitiously crafted a very detailed world with multiple plot elements and sometimes it got hard for me to hone in on what should be the core focus of the story. Poor Mackenzie has to juggle hiding a life-time of psychic visions, coping with the after effects of being violently assaulted, being betrayed by her childhood sweetheart, lies about her paternity, dealing with a jealous/drunk possible half-sister, unwanted attention from an insistent suitor, and becoming a potential target of a serial killer. Then there’s Aidan coping with the death of his wife, the loss of his journalism career, the interference of his super wealthy/super powerful father, odd interactions with his empathic brother, lies about his paternity, alcohol dependency, and the growing task of keeping Mackenzie safe.
Separately all of the pieces are interesting and very well written but put together as the story builds; it occasionally feels a tad too much. The large scope of the story may tie in to the fact that “Epiphany” is part of a planned series called “Legacy of Payne.” The second novel in the story will be called “Awakening,” and will focus on Logan Payne, Aidan’s brother.
Overall, I found “Epiphany” to be an exciting, enjoyable read and I highly recommend checking it out. “Awakening” will be going straight onto my TBR list and I’m looking forward to see what Christina Jean Michaels has in-store next.
Happy Reading.
July 24, 2013
eARC was given for honest review!
Right away the prologue gives the reader a little bit of action, and worry! I was sucked in from that point, and didn’t want to put my kindle down! I read this whole book in one sitting, it was just that amazing. While the beginning wasn’t as nearly exciting as the end, it was still easy to fall in love with the book and the characters.
Mackenzie is a 23 year old female who at first seems to stand behind the crowd rather than with the crowd. This statement here helps with that statement, “The classic ‘little black dress’ emphasized places I’d prefer to leave alone…” By the end of the book, I would say that she has come out of her shell, and embraced everything that was happening around her.
There is so much passion written in this book that makes it hard not to fall in love with the two main characters Aidan and Mac. At first I wondered what Aidan’s whole connection was to the murders, and was worried that I would have to change my feelings towards him. But he has just as much pain locked behind his heart that Mac has of her own. The one main thing I liked about this couple, is it wasn’t rushed. Lately, must couples meet and then two chapters down the road they are hopelessly in love with each other. Aidan and Mac both kept their feelings behind closed hearts and it eventually works up to the surface.
I liked the fact that the chapters were named, I don’t remember the last time I read a book with the chapters named, and each chapter title made me laugh and start to imagine what I might read next. Towards the end, the chapters had me worrying about the welfare of my favorite characters.
I loved this book! I know I say that a lot but I’m a reader, I love all of the work that authors go through to publish their work. I’m so happy that book two is in the works because I don’t think I’d be mentally stable if I was left with no idea what was going to happen between Mackenzie and Aidan.
I am giving this book 5+ stars! It was amazing, and is now a favorite. This is a book that I would really love to gain a signed copy of! Christina Jean Michaels, shoot me an email if there is any way possible for me to gain a copy! Thank you for sending me a copy to review, I loved every sentence. You have gained yourself another fan! :)
Right away the prologue gives the reader a little bit of action, and worry! I was sucked in from that point, and didn’t want to put my kindle down! I read this whole book in one sitting, it was just that amazing. While the beginning wasn’t as nearly exciting as the end, it was still easy to fall in love with the book and the characters.
Mackenzie is a 23 year old female who at first seems to stand behind the crowd rather than with the crowd. This statement here helps with that statement, “The classic ‘little black dress’ emphasized places I’d prefer to leave alone…” By the end of the book, I would say that she has come out of her shell, and embraced everything that was happening around her.
There is so much passion written in this book that makes it hard not to fall in love with the two main characters Aidan and Mac. At first I wondered what Aidan’s whole connection was to the murders, and was worried that I would have to change my feelings towards him. But he has just as much pain locked behind his heart that Mac has of her own. The one main thing I liked about this couple, is it wasn’t rushed. Lately, must couples meet and then two chapters down the road they are hopelessly in love with each other. Aidan and Mac both kept their feelings behind closed hearts and it eventually works up to the surface.
I liked the fact that the chapters were named, I don’t remember the last time I read a book with the chapters named, and each chapter title made me laugh and start to imagine what I might read next. Towards the end, the chapters had me worrying about the welfare of my favorite characters.
I loved this book! I know I say that a lot but I’m a reader, I love all of the work that authors go through to publish their work. I’m so happy that book two is in the works because I don’t think I’d be mentally stable if I was left with no idea what was going to happen between Mackenzie and Aidan.
I am giving this book 5+ stars! It was amazing, and is now a favorite. This is a book that I would really love to gain a signed copy of! Christina Jean Michaels, shoot me an email if there is any way possible for me to gain a copy! Thank you for sending me a copy to review, I loved every sentence. You have gained yourself another fan! :)
August 30, 2013
Epiphany is a new debut for author Christina Jean Michaels and what a debut this book is. Man I have to say that this is one of those books that kept me up all night reading until the end. I just had to know who did it and why and the person I so thought did it was so not the person and man that made me love this book even more because it kept me intrigued until the very end and when the killer was revealed I said holy mother heifer because I did not see that coming.
Mackenzie AKA Mac has a normal happy life except for one thing. She has dreams and very vivid dreams at night. Every night she sees different things but she sees the same man the same face that haunts her. Then her dreams start to get dark with violence and murder in them. So after a tragedy that hits her hard she moves to her mother's home town of Watcher's Point. Once she arrives at Watcher's Point she see her dream man and can't believe it. When she sees Aidan Payne she is left momentarily speechless because she can't believe she is seeing her dream man in the flesh.
As She and Aidan start to get to know each other she realizes that she and Aidan have a special connection and that connection has to do with her dreams. See Aidan is trying to track down the guy who killed his wife and in the midst of all of this there are more murders being committed and they all have something to do with the dreams Mac is having. Together Aidan and Mac have to try and stop this serial killer by figuring out what her dreams mean and if in fact they are going to point to the killer.
But Aidan is hiding something something dark and when the secrets come out Mac will have to decide whether or not it is worth it to risk her heart or just walk away and try and figure out who the killer is by herself. Will Mac and Aidan be able to catch the killer before he strikes again? This is an incredible debut by a great author and I look forward to reading more from her.
Mackenzie AKA Mac has a normal happy life except for one thing. She has dreams and very vivid dreams at night. Every night she sees different things but she sees the same man the same face that haunts her. Then her dreams start to get dark with violence and murder in them. So after a tragedy that hits her hard she moves to her mother's home town of Watcher's Point. Once she arrives at Watcher's Point she see her dream man and can't believe it. When she sees Aidan Payne she is left momentarily speechless because she can't believe she is seeing her dream man in the flesh.
As She and Aidan start to get to know each other she realizes that she and Aidan have a special connection and that connection has to do with her dreams. See Aidan is trying to track down the guy who killed his wife and in the midst of all of this there are more murders being committed and they all have something to do with the dreams Mac is having. Together Aidan and Mac have to try and stop this serial killer by figuring out what her dreams mean and if in fact they are going to point to the killer.
But Aidan is hiding something something dark and when the secrets come out Mac will have to decide whether or not it is worth it to risk her heart or just walk away and try and figure out who the killer is by herself. Will Mac and Aidan be able to catch the killer before he strikes again? This is an incredible debut by a great author and I look forward to reading more from her.
October 24, 2013
What's a book without a little murder, mystery and a divine romance? This one is a page turner, and it kept me both swooning and double guessing the whole way through. It has the right recipe of haunting, thrilling and sexy rolled into one. The main character Mackenzie, is one heck of a heroine, she is smart, independent, and has such inner strength within herself, especially with her special gift she has. I know I couldn't handle having that kind of unique power. I applaud that the girl.
"Aidan?"
"What else should I call him." I shot back.
"How about Mr. Dark-and-Mysterious." ~ Mackenzie and Six
This description couldn't be more perfect to describe Aidan, but I would throw in handsome as hell into the mix. From the moment he walks into that bar and into Mackenzie's life things are never the same for them both. He is Mackenzie's "dream man" literally, and she is finds herself very drawn to him. I know I was very drawn to him through this whole book and there was so much going on beyond those brown eyes of his. The attraction and chemistry between Aidan and Mackenzie was undeniable, and I enjoyed the pace of their relationship.
There was plenty of suspense, and heart pounding moments with trying to figure out who the psychopath was. I was quite shocked when I discovered who it was. The ending was great, no cliffhanger at all. I am very happy that Adian's brother will be getting his own book, and hopefully this couple with make a special appearance.
Review also posted at: http://jesstimetoread.blogspot.com
"Aidan?"
"What else should I call him." I shot back.
"How about Mr. Dark-and-Mysterious." ~ Mackenzie and Six
This description couldn't be more perfect to describe Aidan, but I would throw in handsome as hell into the mix. From the moment he walks into that bar and into Mackenzie's life things are never the same for them both. He is Mackenzie's "dream man" literally, and she is finds herself very drawn to him. I know I was very drawn to him through this whole book and there was so much going on beyond those brown eyes of his. The attraction and chemistry between Aidan and Mackenzie was undeniable, and I enjoyed the pace of their relationship.
There was plenty of suspense, and heart pounding moments with trying to figure out who the psychopath was. I was quite shocked when I discovered who it was. The ending was great, no cliffhanger at all. I am very happy that Adian's brother will be getting his own book, and hopefully this couple with make a special appearance.
Review also posted at: http://jesstimetoread.blogspot.com
July 18, 2013
What can I say about this book? It was great. It was a breath of fresh air. It was something different which I really needed. It had romance but it had the suspense too. Epiphany got you going in all different directions figuring out what was going on.
You meet Mackenzie Hill first. She has an ability to dreaming of things that are going to happen but you never know when. She is a more of a fighter towards the end of the book when she overcomes all of her demons. Although she made me mad a couple of times she did what was necessary at the time.
When Aiden Payne comes in to the picture I see this hunky dark haired guy with demons of his own. Girls he is hot, sweet, and every man a girl wants to have. He is a protector and a lover, he fights for what’s his. He doesn’t let anything or anyone stand in his way. I mean come on don’t you need a man like this. He is worthy book boyfriend material.
When Aiden and Mackenzie come together you are so excited and happy. Then you are like WTF really that didn’t just happen. Its keeps you guessing till the very end. I wanted more of both of them but it ended well.
Good news is Aiden has a brother Logan Payne that we get to meet up close and personal in her next book. Once you see the mystery in him in this book you will be super excited about his book coming out.
I am giving this book 4 stars because Aiden is definitely book boyfriend material and it is a change in pace from some of the other romance books out there. I really do think you will enjoy it as much as I did.
You meet Mackenzie Hill first. She has an ability to dreaming of things that are going to happen but you never know when. She is a more of a fighter towards the end of the book when she overcomes all of her demons. Although she made me mad a couple of times she did what was necessary at the time.
When Aiden Payne comes in to the picture I see this hunky dark haired guy with demons of his own. Girls he is hot, sweet, and every man a girl wants to have. He is a protector and a lover, he fights for what’s his. He doesn’t let anything or anyone stand in his way. I mean come on don’t you need a man like this. He is worthy book boyfriend material.
When Aiden and Mackenzie come together you are so excited and happy. Then you are like WTF really that didn’t just happen. Its keeps you guessing till the very end. I wanted more of both of them but it ended well.
Good news is Aiden has a brother Logan Payne that we get to meet up close and personal in her next book. Once you see the mystery in him in this book you will be super excited about his book coming out.
I am giving this book 4 stars because Aiden is definitely book boyfriend material and it is a change in pace from some of the other romance books out there. I really do think you will enjoy it as much as I did.
September 15, 2013
Epiphany is a fast paced read with a lot of suspense and mystery. The characters are extremely likable and I was completely fascinated with Mackenzie's unique ability. The plot itself was dark, as it follows the gruesome murders of multiple women, but the writing was well developed and it honestly felt like I was in the middle of a twisted episode of Criminal Minds at times. I was completely intrigued by the storyline and obsessively tried to pick out the killer from the very beginning, and while my inner Nancy Drew solved the case fairly early on, I was still completely shocked by the numerous plot twists and surprises that Christina Jean Michaels threw in.
I also really enjoyed reading the connection between Mackenzie and Aidan, and found my heart absolutely broke for him when his past was revealed. I did feel that their relationship developed a little too fast for my liking, but it didn't make me like the story any less.
If you are looking for a gripping story that will keep you on the edge of your seat the entire time, this is the book for you. I give it 4 out of 5 stars and cannot wait to see what Christina Jean Michaels has in store in the next book, Awakening.
Happy Reading, Y'all!
http://bookwormbeauties.blogspot.com
I also really enjoyed reading the connection between Mackenzie and Aidan, and found my heart absolutely broke for him when his past was revealed. I did feel that their relationship developed a little too fast for my liking, but it didn't make me like the story any less.
If you are looking for a gripping story that will keep you on the edge of your seat the entire time, this is the book for you. I give it 4 out of 5 stars and cannot wait to see what Christina Jean Michaels has in store in the next book, Awakening.
Happy Reading, Y'all!
http://bookwormbeauties.blogspot.com
September 8, 2013
This story had me captivated from the first few pages. Christina Jean Michaels was able to find a perfect mix of everything needed for a good story. It was suspenseful but there was still a good deal of romance with some huge twists. Michaels had me guessing throughout the whole story. I found myself needing to know what happened next and could not put the book down. From the first pages you know something bad is happening in Watcher's Point and having that anticipation from the beginning was a nice twist to this novel. Mackenzie Aidan have chemistry right from the beginning and the tension sometimes jumps off the page like fire. It was intense and passionate and the story was very captivating. I enjoyed reading this, I sometimes have a hard time finding suspenseful romances that I enjoy. I cannot wait to read Logan's story!
July 20, 2013
What woman wouldn't want a sexy man from her dreams to appear in the flesh? That's exactly what happens to Mackenzie. The stranger she's been dreaming about for years suddenly comes to life and brings with him a mysterious past. Just as Mac is drawn to him, as a reader, so was I!!
Mackenzie has her own demons to deal with and Aidan becomes her greatest ally.
Ms. Michaels does a fantastic job of mixing just the right amount of mystery, conflict, intrigue, and romance to get the perfect recipe for a book you won't want to put down.
Just about the time you think everything will work out, another conflict comes to light.
This is a very enjoyable, entertaining read. I highly recommend it.
Mackenzie has her own demons to deal with and Aidan becomes her greatest ally.
Ms. Michaels does a fantastic job of mixing just the right amount of mystery, conflict, intrigue, and romance to get the perfect recipe for a book you won't want to put down.
Just about the time you think everything will work out, another conflict comes to light.
This is a very enjoyable, entertaining read. I highly recommend it.
August 19, 2016
I'm sorry to say that I really didn't like this book that much. It wasn't as gripping and intense as her others that I've gobbled up. The intense connection between the characters just wasn't there, the story and plot was sort of predictable and the ending just sucked. We're left with a dire warning about staying safe and keeping away from someone in this person's family but never given any reason as to why or what's going on or will something else come? I don't know...I guess they can't all be home runs.
May 21, 2015
Fantastic fantastic fantastic
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