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New Species #9
Shadow
Book 9 in the New Species series. While each New Species book is a standalone, the greatest enjoyment will come from reading them in series order. Beauty resents being labeled Gift Species. Everyone is way too overprotective, males aren't even allowed to speak to her and so far true freedom eludes her. Then a big, sexy Species officer mistakes her for the enemy and takes her to the ground. Shadow is dumbfounded. He has a Gift pinned under him-a big no-no. But Beauty is fascinated and wants to know Shadow a lot better. She is full of newly discovered, unrequited passion and he's just what she needs to satisfy her curiosity. For Shadow, sex means pain and revulsion. For Beauty, it was enslavement and ridicule. Two lonely souls who have never known a lover's touch, together in a cabin in the woods. Each touch, every discovery brings them closer to a life they never thought possible...beyond even their dreams.
318 pages, Paperback
First published October 30, 2012
About the author
Laurann Dohner
99 books8,783 followersI had a rather short area here telling a little about me but then I had more than a few people ask me to expand it so... here goes. LOL. I'm a full time home 'supervisor' which is a nice word for saying I'm a housewife. I'm married happily, I met my dream guy 20 years ago, and we have 4 children. I live in Southern California and I can't function without iced coffee. I believe in romance, I've always been a daydreamer, and I'm a HUGE fan of books, always have been.
No, I didn't know that I always wanted to write. I inhaled books as a child. I read entire series (Pippi Longstocking, Nancy Drew and The Hardy Boys, Trixie Beldon, The Borrowers, etc) in a matter of days at a time. By the time I was nine years old I had an adult library card where I visited often. I moved on to John Saul, Stephen King, Richard Laymon, Agatha Christie, and then found romance. I was hooked. I wrote poetry in my teens and then moved on to short stories. My first book was started after I read a real bomb of a book that ticked me off with really horrible characters and a plot that was shabby at best and I thought... I could do better. LOL.
I wrote my first book which will probably never see the light of day in the early 90's. I wrote a series of a few books from it. I'm a series fan! I kept writing for fun, wrote MANY books and then in 2009 I decided to try to get published. I wrote my first Sci Fi romance and Ral's Woman came to be. I submitted it and with a little tweaking, Ellorascave sent me an acceptance letter. It was kind of a 'Cinderella' experience for me. It's been a terrific ride so far and I'm really happy that I finally had the time to commit to writing full time. It's a dream come true.
No, I didn't know that I always wanted to write. I inhaled books as a child. I read entire series (Pippi Longstocking, Nancy Drew and The Hardy Boys, Trixie Beldon, The Borrowers, etc) in a matter of days at a time. By the time I was nine years old I had an adult library card where I visited often. I moved on to John Saul, Stephen King, Richard Laymon, Agatha Christie, and then found romance. I was hooked. I wrote poetry in my teens and then moved on to short stories. My first book was started after I read a real bomb of a book that ticked me off with really horrible characters and a plot that was shabby at best and I thought... I could do better. LOL.
I wrote my first book which will probably never see the light of day in the early 90's. I wrote a series of a few books from it. I'm a series fan! I kept writing for fun, wrote MANY books and then in 2009 I decided to try to get published. I wrote my first Sci Fi romance and Ral's Woman came to be. I submitted it and with a little tweaking, Ellorascave sent me an acceptance letter. It was kind of a 'Cinderella' experience for me. It's been a terrific ride so far and I'm really happy that I finally had the time to commit to writing full time. It's a dream come true.
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March 1, 2015
4 I just had sex Stars
*Spoilers*
“I’m really not. I’m scared all the time but I’m more afraid of wasting the life I’ve been given by never taking chances. I have enough regrets.”
So Shadow is the 9th book in the New Species Series. Beauty is sick of being called gift. Everyone treats her with kid gloves. Men aren't allowed to even talk to gift females. It's like a prettier prison, and Beauty is sick of it. She wants a life, love, and she just wants to be treated normal. One night while running in the rain to feel free and alive, she is tackled by a NS male. She isn't afraid of him. She feels drawn to him. He is so big and sexy. She is going to have him and a life. Now she just has to figure out how to go about getting what she wants, when everyone treats her like a child!
“That’s what Gifts are to all of you, right? Children? Why did you bother to save us? It’s a prison without abuse but it’s still captivity. Sunshine, nicer living conditions, and food aren’t enough.”
Shadow:
Shadow is messed up. While imprisoned he was hooked to a masterbation machine and forced to watch porn while they stole his semen to sell to people who wanted to make species babies for pets. He is afraid to touch a woman , doesn't know how he will act if he has flash backs. Then he meets Beauty and he has never wanted a female more. Shadow was sweet, sexy, and very protective.... I loved how he was always dropping to his knees to talk to her so they were eye level. He opened himself up to her made himself vulnerable .
“It means you shouldn’t say that to me unless you really mean it. I’d keep you in my bed, Beauty. You don’t need to worry about me with other females. I already avoid them. You’re the only one who tempts me to the point where I’d face anything to touch you.”
“I was afraid I might hurt you but I’ve wanted you since the moment we met.” He hugged her tighter to him. “I’m damaged and was worried that would cripple me when it came to sharing sex.” His fingers stroked her arm, glad she relaxed. “There isn’t a damn thing pathetic or lacking in you, Beauty.”
“I want to. I need to taste you. I crave it.” He took a heavy, shuddering breath. “Open up for me and stop thinking. Just feel. Trust me, Beauty.”
Beauty:
I loved Beauty she was so brave. She was scared but she wasn't going to let that hold her back. She knew what she wanted and went for it. She was a fighter and I loved that. She found her back bone and spoke her mind even when she was embarrassed.
“I’m just a woman, Shadow. I’m getting stronger every day and I refuse to be locked inside a box while you and everyone else toss away the key. I might not be as physically fit as our women but that doesn’t make me less.”
“You’re smaller than me and I worry I’d be too rough if I put my hands on you.” “You’re touching me right now and you’re being very gentle.” She swallowed hard. “Maybe we could help each other get over our pasts.”
“I’m not them, you know.” She swallowed. “I don’t want to have different sexual partners. I’m not opposed to dating you.” Her gaze dropped to his chest and stayed there, her embarrassment showing again in her cheeks. “That is, if you want to try out being my boyfriend. I’d prefer to have a monogamous relationship.”
I loved them as couple . They were strong for each other , being the others support. They were sugary sweet! I loved breeze in this book too. I want her to get her own book so bad. I enjoyed the plot in this one, liked the fact that it was her master that was the bad guy. Laughed so much over the way everyone was all up in their sex life, and when they had sex I was waiting for them to get a Hallmark card!
“I love sex,” she admitted, obviously content to lie there with him curved around her. “I love sex with you,” he panted, brushing another kiss on her throat. “Was I too rough?” He worried he might inadvertently harm her frailer body.
I loved this book, it was another great one for the New Species Series. I am on to Moon!! Below I leave my favorite moment from the book:
“Why do you call Shadow that?” “Toga boy? It annoys him. Plus,” she laughed, “I’ll never forget what he looked like wearing that flag. It was kind of hot.” Jealousy surged inside Beauty. “He’s mine.” Dark eyebrows rose and Breeze grinned. “Feeling possessive? You just hissed at me.” “I’m sorry.” Beauty was surprised by her unexpected strong reaction. “He’s all yours. I can look but won’t touch. All our males are impressive, if I say so myself, and I do. Is he feeling possessive of you as well?” She grinned. “Never mind. He will. It’s who they are.”“I feel things for him.” “How is the sex?” Beauty hesitated but then answered. “Amazing!” She blushed but refused to look away. “It’s so much better than I ever suspected.” “Score points for toga boy!” Breeze chuckled. “I’m glad.” “Please don’t call him that. You have to notice how that muscle in his jaw twitches every time you say it.” “I know. It’s cute, isn’t it?” Breeze stood. “It’s good for males to be teased. It reminds them not to be serious all the time. What do you have to eat around here?”
http://jessicasoverthetopbookobsessio...
*Spoilers*
“I’m really not. I’m scared all the time but I’m more afraid of wasting the life I’ve been given by never taking chances. I have enough regrets.”
So Shadow is the 9th book in the New Species Series. Beauty is sick of being called gift. Everyone treats her with kid gloves. Men aren't allowed to even talk to gift females. It's like a prettier prison, and Beauty is sick of it. She wants a life, love, and she just wants to be treated normal. One night while running in the rain to feel free and alive, she is tackled by a NS male. She isn't afraid of him. She feels drawn to him. He is so big and sexy. She is going to have him and a life. Now she just has to figure out how to go about getting what she wants, when everyone treats her like a child!
“That’s what Gifts are to all of you, right? Children? Why did you bother to save us? It’s a prison without abuse but it’s still captivity. Sunshine, nicer living conditions, and food aren’t enough.”
Shadow:
Shadow is messed up. While imprisoned he was hooked to a masterbation machine and forced to watch porn while they stole his semen to sell to people who wanted to make species babies for pets. He is afraid to touch a woman , doesn't know how he will act if he has flash backs. Then he meets Beauty and he has never wanted a female more. Shadow was sweet, sexy, and very protective.... I loved how he was always dropping to his knees to talk to her so they were eye level. He opened himself up to her made himself vulnerable .
“It means you shouldn’t say that to me unless you really mean it. I’d keep you in my bed, Beauty. You don’t need to worry about me with other females. I already avoid them. You’re the only one who tempts me to the point where I’d face anything to touch you.”
“I was afraid I might hurt you but I’ve wanted you since the moment we met.” He hugged her tighter to him. “I’m damaged and was worried that would cripple me when it came to sharing sex.” His fingers stroked her arm, glad she relaxed. “There isn’t a damn thing pathetic or lacking in you, Beauty.”
“I want to. I need to taste you. I crave it.” He took a heavy, shuddering breath. “Open up for me and stop thinking. Just feel. Trust me, Beauty.”
Beauty:
I loved Beauty she was so brave. She was scared but she wasn't going to let that hold her back. She knew what she wanted and went for it. She was a fighter and I loved that. She found her back bone and spoke her mind even when she was embarrassed.
“I’m just a woman, Shadow. I’m getting stronger every day and I refuse to be locked inside a box while you and everyone else toss away the key. I might not be as physically fit as our women but that doesn’t make me less.”
“You’re smaller than me and I worry I’d be too rough if I put my hands on you.” “You’re touching me right now and you’re being very gentle.” She swallowed hard. “Maybe we could help each other get over our pasts.”
“I’m not them, you know.” She swallowed. “I don’t want to have different sexual partners. I’m not opposed to dating you.” Her gaze dropped to his chest and stayed there, her embarrassment showing again in her cheeks. “That is, if you want to try out being my boyfriend. I’d prefer to have a monogamous relationship.”
I loved them as couple . They were strong for each other , being the others support. They were sugary sweet! I loved breeze in this book too. I want her to get her own book so bad. I enjoyed the plot in this one, liked the fact that it was her master that was the bad guy. Laughed so much over the way everyone was all up in their sex life, and when they had sex I was waiting for them to get a Hallmark card!
“I love sex,” she admitted, obviously content to lie there with him curved around her. “I love sex with you,” he panted, brushing another kiss on her throat. “Was I too rough?” He worried he might inadvertently harm her frailer body.
I loved this book, it was another great one for the New Species Series. I am on to Moon!! Below I leave my favorite moment from the book:
“Why do you call Shadow that?” “Toga boy? It annoys him. Plus,” she laughed, “I’ll never forget what he looked like wearing that flag. It was kind of hot.” Jealousy surged inside Beauty. “He’s mine.” Dark eyebrows rose and Breeze grinned. “Feeling possessive? You just hissed at me.” “I’m sorry.” Beauty was surprised by her unexpected strong reaction. “He’s all yours. I can look but won’t touch. All our males are impressive, if I say so myself, and I do. Is he feeling possessive of you as well?” She grinned. “Never mind. He will. It’s who they are.”“I feel things for him.” “How is the sex?” Beauty hesitated but then answered. “Amazing!” She blushed but refused to look away. “It’s so much better than I ever suspected.” “Score points for toga boy!” Breeze chuckled. “I’m glad.” “Please don’t call him that. You have to notice how that muscle in his jaw twitches every time you say it.” “I know. It’s cute, isn’t it?” Breeze stood. “It’s good for males to be teased. It reminds them not to be serious all the time. What do you have to eat around here?”
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June 20, 2012
Well, I don't know about everyone else, but I loved this book. Beauty was awesome- the right blend of quiet and strength. And for some reason, I don't know why, I have discovered an obsession for Leo. I really don't know why, since he is only mentioned about three times in this book, but I adore him. He is mine, do you hear me? He. Is. Mine.
Valiant has warned them sternly to avoid this area. He keeps them in control for the most part. Leo is also good with intimidation. He’s a wild bastard though.”
“Who is Leo? Is he a danger?”
“Another feline. He won’t come after the Gift. I’d worry more about him playing pranks but he’s got heart. He’s sane but doesn’t follow rules. He enjoys giving the officers headaches.”
Ok, and maybe its the fact he has a tail. How cool is that? We finally have a species with a tail. Almost like Valiant, but not quite as crazy. And he's single! Or was- mine now...
It definitely took some surprising turns for me, but I really enjoyed it. Beauty was quite lucky with the man she was gifted to, so I understand she was not quite like Tiny or Half-pint which is disappointing because I really enjoyed reading about a Gift female. Doesn't seem likely Tiny and Half-pint will get a book :( Maybe a different Gift female? Though I don't think we've heard of may others. Maybe a Gift with a Task force guy? That'd be a cool twist :D
I was slightly happy that Moon's book was next [loved him ever since Slade] but I thought it wouldn't be as intense as the others because of how relaxed he is. Hah, well that's all ruined now. Can't wait for his book. Being shot with a dart that practically turns them feral? Didn't see that one coming. Moon promises to be interesting.
Perhaps after Moon she will do Ven. I hope so, his story seems like it will be very interesting. Then Jericho? I really want to read his book too. I'd also want her to do Leo- but that would mean giving him up to a Species or human and there is no way I'm doing that.
Why is it when I finally decide to hate someone in her books she makes them seem not that bad? Looks like there is a lot more to Kit than we thought. Someone has some hidden issues. But she's still not well liked by me- Obsidian is my second favorite male and he was clearly taken when she hit on him. Ven was annoying until we learned his story. Kit's story might be really sad, but she's still a bit of a bitch. Gonna have to work hard LD to make me like her.
Moon can't come out fast enough. No release date for it yet- damn. Soon hopefully. I'm dying to see how and who solves the drug problem. I thought a doctor at first, but probably not. The girls are already taken, right? Trisha and Ali. Maybe a Species? Maybe a human? Who knows? It will have to come put quickly so when can find out- and get our next NS hit *hint hint*
Valiant has warned them sternly to avoid this area. He keeps them in control for the most part. Leo is also good with intimidation. He’s a wild bastard though.”
“Who is Leo? Is he a danger?”
“Another feline. He won’t come after the Gift. I’d worry more about him playing pranks but he’s got heart. He’s sane but doesn’t follow rules. He enjoys giving the officers headaches.”
Ok, and maybe its the fact he has a tail. How cool is that? We finally have a species with a tail. Almost like Valiant, but not quite as crazy. And he's single! Or was- mine now...
It definitely took some surprising turns for me, but I really enjoyed it. Beauty was quite lucky with the man she was gifted to, so I understand she was not quite like Tiny or Half-pint which is disappointing because I really enjoyed reading about a Gift female. Doesn't seem likely Tiny and Half-pint will get a book :( Maybe a different Gift female? Though I don't think we've heard of may others. Maybe a Gift with a Task force guy? That'd be a cool twist :D
I was slightly happy that Moon's book was next [loved him ever since Slade] but I thought it wouldn't be as intense as the others because of how relaxed he is. Hah, well that's all ruined now. Can't wait for his book. Being shot with a dart that practically turns them feral? Didn't see that one coming. Moon promises to be interesting.
Perhaps after Moon she will do Ven. I hope so, his story seems like it will be very interesting. Then Jericho? I really want to read his book too. I'd also want her to do Leo- but that would mean giving him up to a Species or human and there is no way I'm doing that.
Why is it when I finally decide to hate someone in her books she makes them seem not that bad? Looks like there is a lot more to Kit than we thought. Someone has some hidden issues. But she's still not well liked by me- Obsidian is my second favorite male and he was clearly taken when she hit on him. Ven was annoying until we learned his story. Kit's story might be really sad, but she's still a bit of a bitch. Gonna have to work hard LD to make me like her.
Moon can't come out fast enough. No release date for it yet- damn. Soon hopefully. I'm dying to see how and who solves the drug problem. I thought a doctor at first, but probably not. The girls are already taken, right? Trisha and Ali. Maybe a Species? Maybe a human? Who knows? It will have to come put quickly so when can find out- and get our next NS hit *hint hint*
March 12, 2016
Ooo, this guy's name is Shadow. That makes me think of a mysterious dark-haired man who is a brooding and quiet. Like this:
But, that is completely wrong. Our guy named Shadow is tan, blonde hair in a military cut, blue eyes, easy-going and funny. Like a bro, not a shadow.
It just seems kinda deceiving. But, these New Species pick out some weird names sometimes. There is one named "Book", one named "Creek", and another named "Moon". I mean, I get that they all picked things they like but come on! If we were going to name ourselves random items we like, I would be called "Cake" or "Bed". Most of my dreams are cake related...
A cake-bed - the best of both worlds!
So, we have Shadow, our bro New Species, doing guard duty at the compound one night when he spots Beauty, one of the female Species who had been used as a sex slave before being rescued. She is out running in a storm and he ends up taking shelter with her. The thing is, the males are not allowed to touch or even talk to the females that were rescued from sexual slavery. They are completely taboo - off limits - no-go zone. So, we all know what that means, right?
No, it's "bow chicka wow wow", not brown chicken brown cow!
Beauty doesn't like being coddled and having no male exposure. She's lonely and she needs a little shadow in her life (and she needs a lotta Shadow in her bed), so she tells another female that she's ready for some action. They need to stop the cock-blocking!
These New Species are very literal.
So, the New Species government does what all governments do: they have a meeting to discuss whether or not they will allow Beauty to have sex. Kinda reminds me of some old white guys who form special committees in the government to make decisions about women's reproductive issues. Oh, I'm not bitter or anything! If anyone could understand the complicated journey of a female navigating her sexuality and fertility, it's a group of old men in government.
Luckily for Beauty and Shadow, they vote to allow them to have sex. Thank goodness! If there had just been one vote swinging the other way, they might have had to stay away from each other for ever. Cuz, we all know that if the government told us that we can't have sex, we would all cease and desist immediately.
So, they go to a cabin in the woods for some "alone time". There is some drama, but most of the book is them discussing their feelings. *sigh* I don't even like to discuss my own feelings, let alone read about other people's feeling discussions.
The only thing that saved this story for me was an awesome shoot-out in the woods, and Breeze who is by far one of the best characters in this series.
But, that is completely wrong. Our guy named Shadow is tan, blonde hair in a military cut, blue eyes, easy-going and funny. Like a bro, not a shadow.
It just seems kinda deceiving. But, these New Species pick out some weird names sometimes. There is one named "Book", one named "Creek", and another named "Moon". I mean, I get that they all picked things they like but come on! If we were going to name ourselves random items we like, I would be called "Cake" or "Bed". Most of my dreams are cake related...
A cake-bed - the best of both worlds!
So, we have Shadow, our bro New Species, doing guard duty at the compound one night when he spots Beauty, one of the female Species who had been used as a sex slave before being rescued. She is out running in a storm and he ends up taking shelter with her. The thing is, the males are not allowed to touch or even talk to the females that were rescued from sexual slavery. They are completely taboo - off limits - no-go zone. So, we all know what that means, right?
No, it's "bow chicka wow wow", not brown chicken brown cow!
Beauty doesn't like being coddled and having no male exposure. She's lonely and she needs a little shadow in her life (and she needs a lotta Shadow in her bed), so she tells another female that she's ready for some action. They need to stop the cock-blocking!
These New Species are very literal.
So, the New Species government does what all governments do: they have a meeting to discuss whether or not they will allow Beauty to have sex. Kinda reminds me of some old white guys who form special committees in the government to make decisions about women's reproductive issues. Oh, I'm not bitter or anything! If anyone could understand the complicated journey of a female navigating her sexuality and fertility, it's a group of old men in government.
Luckily for Beauty and Shadow, they vote to allow them to have sex. Thank goodness! If there had just been one vote swinging the other way, they might have had to stay away from each other for ever. Cuz, we all know that if the government told us that we can't have sex, we would all cease and desist immediately.
So, they go to a cabin in the woods for some "alone time". There is some drama, but most of the book is them discussing their feelings. *sigh* I don't even like to discuss my own feelings, let alone read about other people's feeling discussions.
The only thing that saved this story for me was an awesome shoot-out in the woods, and Breeze who is by far one of the best characters in this series.
November 3, 2012
Beauty has spent her life in captivity...
Only brought out of her basement dungeon when "Master" needed her to please him sexually. Her guards referred to her as Mud. But she was a Gift. Gifts were New species that were genetically altered with animal DNA. They were developed to be sexual companions and they are beautiful. Beauty was created with Primate DNA.
The Gifts that have been rescued are treated like fine china. They are not allowed to interact with any males and not are not even allowed to work as all other New Species do. Beauty often hears the other species having sex thru the walls of her dorm, but instead of fear, she feels a longing. She longs to be free to experience life, and not to be protected.
One rainy night when Beauty can take the oppression no longer, she goes for a run in the rain, only to meet her destiny!
Shadow
Shadow is on patrol one night when he spots a female running in a thunder storm, so he chases her. Shadow was not prepared for Beauty's strength nor for the emotions he felt towards her. His instincts took over and he immediately wanted to protect and keep her safe.
Shadow suffers nightmares from years of torture and breeding by his captives. He has never had consensual sex and is afraid to attempt to be with a female. But Beauty is a temptation that he is unable to refuse. These two were so perfect for each other!
Only brought out of her basement dungeon when "Master" needed her to please him sexually. Her guards referred to her as Mud. But she was a Gift. Gifts were New species that were genetically altered with animal DNA. They were developed to be sexual companions and they are beautiful. Beauty was created with Primate DNA.
The Gifts that have been rescued are treated like fine china. They are not allowed to interact with any males and not are not even allowed to work as all other New Species do. Beauty often hears the other species having sex thru the walls of her dorm, but instead of fear, she feels a longing. She longs to be free to experience life, and not to be protected.
One rainy night when Beauty can take the oppression no longer, she goes for a run in the rain, only to meet her destiny!
Shadow
Shadow is on patrol one night when he spots a female running in a thunder storm, so he chases her. Shadow was not prepared for Beauty's strength nor for the emotions he felt towards her. His instincts took over and he immediately wanted to protect and keep her safe.
Shadow suffers nightmares from years of torture and breeding by his captives. He has never had consensual sex and is afraid to attempt to be with a female. But Beauty is a temptation that he is unable to refuse. These two were so perfect for each other!
She’d wanted him to kiss her. Her head tilting back and her lips parting while she’d closed her eyes had been a good indication. There was only one problem. He’d never kissed a female before.
I’ve never loved before but this has to be it. You are everything I want and need. You make me complete and having you in my arms is the most right thing in my world. Every thought involves you and how to keep you close.”
September 9, 2012
I loved this one! I wasn't quite sure how I was going to feel about the pairing with Shadow & Beauty, but I must say these two are just beautiful together. I loved that this one is about a Species Female pairing this time and not our past books in this series where they are all about the Species Males & human females.
"What do you need? Tell me. It's yours." -Shadow *sighs*
Just because Beauty is alot more vulnerable than her female species counterparts, does in no way cancel out her ability to think, feel, and defend herself. She has heart. And she shows it beautifully.
I really love the message in this one: Just because one has endured unspeakable acts by the hands of another, does not mean one should remain in fear of living and loving. Taking back your power through living your life and moving forward in a positive way.
I like how this story was executed. The writing, and dialogue is definitely alot tighter in this one. I loved the brief glimpses we get from some of our previous Species males, and I just can't say this enough.. I love love love Shadow.
The heartfelt exchange you will see between Beauty and Shane towards the end was really beautiful. I'm glad I got to see that. I was wondering/hoping if or when we would ever see him again after meeting him in the prologue.
All in all this was another great installment to this series. I would recommend this read
****Please read this series in order****
"What do you need? Tell me. It's yours." -Shadow *sighs*
Just because Beauty is alot more vulnerable than her female species counterparts, does in no way cancel out her ability to think, feel, and defend herself. She has heart. And she shows it beautifully.
I really love the message in this one: Just because one has endured unspeakable acts by the hands of another, does not mean one should remain in fear of living and loving. Taking back your power through living your life and moving forward in a positive way.
I like how this story was executed. The writing, and dialogue is definitely alot tighter in this one. I loved the brief glimpses we get from some of our previous Species males, and I just can't say this enough.. I love love love Shadow.
The heartfelt exchange you will see between Beauty and Shane towards the end was really beautiful. I'm glad I got to see that. I was wondering/hoping if or when we would ever see him again after meeting him in the prologue.
All in all this was another great installment to this series. I would recommend this read
****Please read this series in order****
July 18, 2023
Beauty and the Shadow!
The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: ❤️💙💚💜💖
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙
World building: 🌏🌍🌏🌎
Character development: 🤓😉🤨😊
Narration: 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration Type: Solo Narration
The heroine: Beauty - she is a gift species, made for sexual slavery. She was called Mud for a long time. She was recently freed by Jesse and the special ops team that searched for more New Species that are still captive. Jesse tells her she is being taken somewhere safe with others like her. She had hope for the first time in her life. Free from master and able to go outside and see sunshine for the first time in ages. However, as they were nearly at the car, a sniper started shooting at them.
The Story: Later, after Beauty was staying at homeland, she is starting to realize that she is indeed free. She now lives in her own apartment. Her next door neighbor Kit, is a female New Species who likes to share sex with many of the New Species males, and she kicks them out as soon as they are finished. Beauty wouldn’t kick a male out if he were interested in her, but none ever approach her. One night when she was frustrated, she goes running outside in the rain.
The Hero: Shadow - He is New Species with dog DNA and works on the special task force team with humans and New Species. One night when it was raining hard, he sees a female intruder in a white dress running through the forest. He pursues what he thinks is a human to see what she had done and why she was running. He tackles her and pins her under his body before finding she is a gift female with primate DNA.
This book was different than the rest of the series since both of the main characters are New Species, though Beauty was more human like than most of the others, the gift species are smaller like humans and weaker than the other New Species. I liked that the two main characters go off to the wild zone on Reservation to stay together at a cabin.
This book is told in dual points of view via solo narration and was narrated by Vanessa Chambers. Vanessa’s voice is pleasant, and I like her quite a bit. She is terrific at doing different voices for different characters and there are a lot of characters in each of these books, so that can’t be an easy job, but she does it so well.
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The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: ❤️💙💚💜💖
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙
World building: 🌏🌍🌏🌎
Character development: 🤓😉🤨😊
Narration: 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration Type: Solo Narration
The heroine: Beauty - she is a gift species, made for sexual slavery. She was called Mud for a long time. She was recently freed by Jesse and the special ops team that searched for more New Species that are still captive. Jesse tells her she is being taken somewhere safe with others like her. She had hope for the first time in her life. Free from master and able to go outside and see sunshine for the first time in ages. However, as they were nearly at the car, a sniper started shooting at them.
The Story: Later, after Beauty was staying at homeland, she is starting to realize that she is indeed free. She now lives in her own apartment. Her next door neighbor Kit, is a female New Species who likes to share sex with many of the New Species males, and she kicks them out as soon as they are finished. Beauty wouldn’t kick a male out if he were interested in her, but none ever approach her. One night when she was frustrated, she goes running outside in the rain.
The Hero: Shadow - He is New Species with dog DNA and works on the special task force team with humans and New Species. One night when it was raining hard, he sees a female intruder in a white dress running through the forest. He pursues what he thinks is a human to see what she had done and why she was running. He tackles her and pins her under his body before finding she is a gift female with primate DNA.
This book was different than the rest of the series since both of the main characters are New Species, though Beauty was more human like than most of the others, the gift species are smaller like humans and weaker than the other New Species. I liked that the two main characters go off to the wild zone on Reservation to stay together at a cabin.
This book is told in dual points of view via solo narration and was narrated by Vanessa Chambers. Vanessa’s voice is pleasant, and I like her quite a bit. She is terrific at doing different voices for different characters and there are a lot of characters in each of these books, so that can’t be an easy job, but she does it so well.
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May 12, 2015
Good thing Beauty was a bad ass, because Shadow could not get it together! It really was a sweet and fun book. I loved the way the NSO came together to support them. It was beautiful!
May 24, 2015
ครึ่งแรกกับครึ่งหลังนี่ยังกับนิยายคนละเรื่อง ครึ่งแรกเอื่อยเฉื่อยมาก เหตุผลของนางเอกนี่ก็หน้าเบะปากใส่นะ เปล่าเปลี่ยวหัวใจไม่มีใครดูแล เลยอยากได้ผู้ชายมาอยู่ด้วย และผู้ชายคนนั้นที่เธออยากได้ เธอก็เจอเขาครั้งแรกในวันที่ฝนตก ไปหลบอยู่ในที่พักด้วยกันสองคน เนื้อตัวเปียกปอน แต่ใจนี่สั่นไปหมด ... อยากได้ฝ่ายตรงข้ามรัวๆ 'ดูสิ ! ตัวคุณเปียกไปหมดแล้ว มาถอดเสื้อสิคะเดี๋ยวเป็นหวัดหรอก' พระเอกนี่ยังไม่ทันจะถอดเสื้อ นางเอกชิงถอดก่อนแล้วจ้า! แต่นางเอกก็เป็นคนใสซื่อบอบบางนะ อุ๊ย ! จะแสดงความต้องการไม่ได้ ต้องเก็บกดเอาไว้ ส่วนพระเอกก็ร่ำร้องอยากได้นางเอกแทบตาย แต่ก็ดูแลนางเอกประหนึ่งกับตุ๊กตากระเบื้องจากจีนแดง กระทบกระเทือนไม่ได้เพราะกลัวแตก คนอ่านนี่เหนื่อยใจเหลือเกิน
แต่พอครึ่งเล่มหลัง...อารมณ์ New Species จากเล่มก่อนๆมันกลับมาหมดนะ มีฉาก Action สาดกระสุนปืนใส่กันซะจนบ้านพรุน ด้วยความที่อยากมีส่วนร่วม...นางเอกก็เลยหลับหูหลับตายิงปืนรัวๆใส่กำแพงใส่เพดานบ้านซะเยินไปหมด หงายท้องหงายหลังตีลังกาไปหลายตลบเพราะโดนแรงปืนถีบ (นี่เราควรจะขำใช่มะ 555) ปมประเด็นที่ปูไปเล่มต่อไปก็น่าสนใจนะ แต่ก็คิดว่าคงจะเข้าอีหรอบเดิม พระเอก Growled , Roared , Howled คือมีมาทั้งเรื่อง บางครั้งก็แอบสงสัยว่านี่คนหรือหมา แต่มันก็เป็นนิสัยของ New species อะนะ บางครั้งก็ดูน่ารักดี ...
เลิฟซีนไม่ฮอตเท่าเล่มก่อนๆเลย ... วัยรุ่นเซง !! นี่โทษนางเอกคนเดียวเลยนะ...จะเรียบร้อยใสซื่อไปไหน ถ้าจะเรียบร้อยขนาดนี้ก็ไปนั่งพับผ้าเหอะ 555 พระเอกก็เฉยๆนะ ไม่บ้าเหมือนเล่ม Obsidian (เล่มนั้นเป็นเล่มแรกที่อ่านแล้วรำคาญพระเอกมาก) เล่มนี้ดีหน่อย พระเอกแสนดี แต่แอบหื่น นางเอกก็ใสซื่อ แต่หื่นกว่า !?
แต่พอครึ่งเล่มหลัง...อารมณ์ New Species จากเล่มก่อนๆมันกลับมาหมดนะ มีฉาก Action สาดกระสุนปืนใส่กันซะจนบ้านพรุน ด้วยความที่อยากมีส่วนร่วม...นางเอกก็เลยหลับหูหลับตายิงปืนรัวๆใส่กำแพงใส่เพดานบ้านซะเยินไปหมด หงายท้องหงายหลังตีลังกาไปหลายตลบเพราะโดนแรงปืนถีบ (นี่เราควรจะขำใช่มะ 555) ปมประเด็นที่ปูไปเล่มต่อไปก็น่าสนใจนะ แต่ก็คิดว่าคงจะเข้าอีหรอบเดิม พระเอก Growled , Roared , Howled คือมีมาทั้งเรื่อง บางครั้งก็แอบสงสัยว่านี่คนหรือหมา แต่มันก็เป็นนิสัยของ New species อะนะ บางครั้งก็ดูน่ารักดี ...
เลิฟซีนไม่ฮอตเท่าเล่มก่อนๆเลย ... วัยรุ่นเซง !! นี่โทษนางเอกคนเดียวเลยนะ...จะเรียบร้อยใสซื่อไปไหน ถ้าจะเรียบร้อยขนาดนี้ก็ไปนั่งพับผ้าเหอะ 555 พระเอกก็เฉยๆนะ ไม่บ้าเหมือนเล่ม Obsidian (เล่มนั้นเป็นเล่มแรกที่อ่านแล้วรำคาญพระเอกมาก) เล่มนี้ดีหน่อย พระเอกแสนดี แต่แอบหื่น นางเอกก็ใสซื่อ แต่หื่นกว่า !?
Want to Read
June 1, 2012I can't wait to read Shadow's book. I heard on Laurann's blog that Shadow will be with Beauty (a gift female). Both have been hurt and it will be great to read how each of them overcome their insecurities.
September 15, 2017
Najslađi par celog serijala!
July 11, 2022
Primer libro de la serie que tiene como protagonista femenina a una nueva especie, aunque del tipo de las que eran denominadas “mujeres Regalo”, por lo que nadie podía acercarse a ella
Shadow es un amor, me gustó desde que fue protagonista secundario del libro de Wrath y hacen una pareja realmente preciosa. Bella es la mujer regalo que fue rescatada en el libro de Justice y aquí no sólo tendrá que enfrentar los sentimientos que comienzan a nacer, sino también al desgraciado que la quiere recuperar.
Shadow es un amor, me gustó desde que fue protagonista secundario del libro de Wrath y hacen una pareja realmente preciosa. Bella es la mujer regalo que fue rescatada en el libro de Justice y aquí no sólo tendrá que enfrentar los sentimientos que comienzan a nacer, sino también al desgraciado que la quiere recuperar.
August 26, 2012
**re-read after another re-read I think I would rate this a 4 now. I don't know how Beauty felt with everyone treating her like a kid, that would have driven me mad.
Bumping this up to a 3 1/2 star rating, I still like this book but I still feel the same as the first time I read this one
This is a hard review for me because I love Laurann Dohner I love her stories I love her style of writing and I always get wrapped into her worlds and her characters. But I knew from the beginning that I didn't really want to read this book and it's nothing to do with her stories or her writing style I just have never been interested in reading about a "gift species", and that's why I waited so long to read this book. With Moon coming out in a few days(YAY!) I knew I needed to get down to it and read this book. Even though I wasn't interested in a gift female I have to say that LD still brought a really good story, the world building was great and the incorporation of the side characters were great.
This book was a lot different than the other books in that we don't get a lot of external problems. This book focuses almost completely on Shadow and beauty and them being together the whole time. It was interesting to see how the gift females were treated, and that while the species were trying their best to protect the gift females they were actually giving them a pretty prisons and treating them like kids. After reading this book I dislike Kit more and as always Breeze was great. So yes the story was good but I couldn't connect with the heroine and didn't like it as much as the others.
Bumping this up to a 3 1/2 star rating, I still like this book but I still feel the same as the first time I read this one
This is a hard review for me because I love Laurann Dohner I love her stories I love her style of writing and I always get wrapped into her worlds and her characters. But I knew from the beginning that I didn't really want to read this book and it's nothing to do with her stories or her writing style I just have never been interested in reading about a "gift species", and that's why I waited so long to read this book. With Moon coming out in a few days(YAY!) I knew I needed to get down to it and read this book. Even though I wasn't interested in a gift female I have to say that LD still brought a really good story, the world building was great and the incorporation of the side characters were great.
This book was a lot different than the other books in that we don't get a lot of external problems. This book focuses almost completely on Shadow and beauty and them being together the whole time. It was interesting to see how the gift females were treated, and that while the species were trying their best to protect the gift females they were actually giving them a pretty prisons and treating them like kids. After reading this book I dislike Kit more and as always Breeze was great. So yes the story was good but I couldn't connect with the heroine and didn't like it as much as the others.
April 15, 2012
Very good book like all the others. I'm really in love with all the guys of the serie.
Shadow is cute with beauty and very protective, and even if she's shy about sex things, she try not to be the victim she was when in captivity.
Love their HEA !
Now I want to read the following books, Moon, Vengeance, ... and more Leo now I know he has a tail ^^
Shadow is cute with beauty and very protective, and even if she's shy about sex things, she try not to be the victim she was when in captivity.
Love their HEA !
Now I want to read the following books, Moon, Vengeance, ... and more Leo now I know he has a tail ^^
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 27, 2015
SHADOW & BEAUTY
It was an ok book, but not as good as the rest. It took me ages to finish it and I usually finish the NS books in less than half a day.
I liked the flag incident a lot. It became something like an inside joke in the series.
I think the flags are used again in the Numbers book.
It was an ok book, but not as good as the rest. It took me ages to finish it and I usually finish the NS books in less than half a day.
I liked the flag incident a lot. It became something like an inside joke in the series.
I think the flags are used again in the Numbers book.
September 18, 2013
4-4.5 stars
This was a really good story. I loved Beauty and Shadow and really enjoyed their story. This one has made it to my second favorite of this series (I can't help it, Valiant is still my fave).
Beauty is a NS (New Species - people that were made in a lab with human DNA merged with animal DNA) female but also has the misfortune of being a "Gift" female (the NS females that were made smaller and weaker than most NS and given away to the financiers of the lab that created them). This meant she was put through some really bad stuff by a man that saw her as a possession. Fortunately for Beauty, she was rescued and taken to Homeland (a compound owned by the freed NS people) where she recovered and learned to live free. The problem is that since the "Gift" females as seen as weak, they're highly protected. The NS males aren't even allowed to talk to them and their movements (even within the compound) are very restricted. Most of the "Gift" females don't mind because they have no interest in males but Beauty is different. Beauty is trying to get over her past abuse and wants a relationship with a male. Kind of hard to do when you're not even allowed to talk to them. One night when she's feeling very restrained by her circumstances, she leaves the women's dorms and goes for a run, not expecting to get tackled when she's mistaken for a human.
Shadow is a NS male and has been through a rough past in the labs which has him avoiding females (intimately). He has been working with the human task force that goes out to capture the fugitives still out there wanted for crimes against the NS people and also saving any NS people that discovered being held captive. He's best friends with Wrath and envies him his mate but doubts he'll ever be able to want a female (human or NS) or ever have a mate. Things change when he captures what he thinks is a human intruder in Homeland and she ends up being a "Gift" NS female instead.
When Shadow captures Beauty, there's a bad storm that comes up and as he's trying to get her protection from the rain, he takes them to a storage shed in the area. As soon as they get inside, hail starts up and it's too dangerous to go outside for a while. When it's safer, Shadow wants to go call a female NS officer (standard procedure with a "Gift" female) but Beauty doesn't want him to leave. She's interested in the big NS male and convinces him she'd be too scared if he left her alone (a bit of an exaggeration) so he wont leave. They start talking and share a bit of themselves. During this time, Beauty brings up her feelings of feeling captive by the rules set in place to keep her safe. This is unthinkable to the NS because they were kept captive for so long. She tells Shadow how lonely she is and would like for someone to hold her and sleep with her in their arms. While the storm still rages outside, Shadow decides he'll give her the night in his arm (it's only platonic though). The next morning they're found as they're waking up together and (since being alone with her is really against the rules) Shadow has to go with Security and account for his actions. Breeze goes to talk to Beauty and finds out what happened and also Beauty's need for more than she's allowed by the rules around her. Breeze brings this issue to the attention of the NS leaders and they decide that Beauty and Shadow should spend some time together.
Shadow and Beauty are given a chance to bond by being sent to Reservation (another NS compound) and they have 2 weeks together in a secluded cabin. Beauty is interested in Shadow but is very shy and wont make the first move. Shadow at first is rather pissed that they sent him there without actually asking him but does finally admit his return interest in Beauty. The problem lies in the fact that Shadow doesn't know a lot about females and because of what he was put through in the lab, he's afraid he might hurt Beauty if he does try to share sex with her. Things don't go well at first but eventually Beauty takes the bull by the horns and get them talking, which eventually leads to other things...thing that work out very well between them. There are a few stumbling blocks but everything starts going pretty well between Beauty and Shadow. Things get disrupted when mercenaries manage to get on to Reservation, hired by Beauty's previous captor and sent to bring her back to him. They cause a lot of problems but things do get handled and Beauty shows some real courage in handling herself and not being the weak female they all thought her. There's a little stress at the end until Shadow and Beauty are able to talk things out after the danger has been handled and all but they do talk (Beauty showing more courage in not being afraid to speak up for what she wants) and decide they want to stay together. They become mates and start their well deserved HEA.
This was a really good story. I loved Beauty and Shadow and seeing them work through their pasts to be together. It was a very good romance but I also liked the story it told about Beauty overcoming how she's seen, both by others and herself, striving to be more and showing a lot of courage when facing danger (both physical and emotional). Shadow did well too but I felt Beauty handled it better than Shadow overall. LOL. I can't wait for book #10, Moon's book (I <3 Moon). I'd recommend this book. 2 thumbs up! :D
* note - I listened to the audio version of this book. The narrator did a very good job.
This was a really good story. I loved Beauty and Shadow and really enjoyed their story. This one has made it to my second favorite of this series (I can't help it, Valiant is still my fave).
Beauty is a NS (New Species - people that were made in a lab with human DNA merged with animal DNA) female but also has the misfortune of being a "Gift" female (the NS females that were made smaller and weaker than most NS and given away to the financiers of the lab that created them). This meant she was put through some really bad stuff by a man that saw her as a possession. Fortunately for Beauty, she was rescued and taken to Homeland (a compound owned by the freed NS people) where she recovered and learned to live free. The problem is that since the "Gift" females as seen as weak, they're highly protected. The NS males aren't even allowed to talk to them and their movements (even within the compound) are very restricted. Most of the "Gift" females don't mind because they have no interest in males but Beauty is different. Beauty is trying to get over her past abuse and wants a relationship with a male. Kind of hard to do when you're not even allowed to talk to them. One night when she's feeling very restrained by her circumstances, she leaves the women's dorms and goes for a run, not expecting to get tackled when she's mistaken for a human.
Shadow is a NS male and has been through a rough past in the labs which has him avoiding females (intimately). He has been working with the human task force that goes out to capture the fugitives still out there wanted for crimes against the NS people and also saving any NS people that discovered being held captive. He's best friends with Wrath and envies him his mate but doubts he'll ever be able to want a female (human or NS) or ever have a mate. Things change when he captures what he thinks is a human intruder in Homeland and she ends up being a "Gift" NS female instead.
When Shadow captures Beauty, there's a bad storm that comes up and as he's trying to get her protection from the rain, he takes them to a storage shed in the area. As soon as they get inside, hail starts up and it's too dangerous to go outside for a while. When it's safer, Shadow wants to go call a female NS officer (standard procedure with a "Gift" female) but Beauty doesn't want him to leave. She's interested in the big NS male and convinces him she'd be too scared if he left her alone (a bit of an exaggeration) so he wont leave. They start talking and share a bit of themselves. During this time, Beauty brings up her feelings of feeling captive by the rules set in place to keep her safe. This is unthinkable to the NS because they were kept captive for so long. She tells Shadow how lonely she is and would like for someone to hold her and sleep with her in their arms. While the storm still rages outside, Shadow decides he'll give her the night in his arm (it's only platonic though). The next morning they're found as they're waking up together and (since being alone with her is really against the rules) Shadow has to go with Security and account for his actions. Breeze goes to talk to Beauty and finds out what happened and also Beauty's need for more than she's allowed by the rules around her. Breeze brings this issue to the attention of the NS leaders and they decide that Beauty and Shadow should spend some time together.
Shadow and Beauty are given a chance to bond by being sent to Reservation (another NS compound) and they have 2 weeks together in a secluded cabin. Beauty is interested in Shadow but is very shy and wont make the first move. Shadow at first is rather pissed that they sent him there without actually asking him but does finally admit his return interest in Beauty. The problem lies in the fact that Shadow doesn't know a lot about females and because of what he was put through in the lab, he's afraid he might hurt Beauty if he does try to share sex with her. Things don't go well at first but eventually Beauty takes the bull by the horns and get them talking, which eventually leads to other things...thing that work out very well between them. There are a few stumbling blocks but everything starts going pretty well between Beauty and Shadow. Things get disrupted when mercenaries manage to get on to Reservation, hired by Beauty's previous captor and sent to bring her back to him. They cause a lot of problems but things do get handled and Beauty shows some real courage in handling herself and not being the weak female they all thought her. There's a little stress at the end until Shadow and Beauty are able to talk things out after the danger has been handled and all but they do talk (Beauty showing more courage in not being afraid to speak up for what she wants) and decide they want to stay together. They become mates and start their well deserved HEA.
This was a really good story. I loved Beauty and Shadow and seeing them work through their pasts to be together. It was a very good romance but I also liked the story it told about Beauty overcoming how she's seen, both by others and herself, striving to be more and showing a lot of courage when facing danger (both physical and emotional). Shadow did well too but I felt Beauty handled it better than Shadow overall. LOL. I can't wait for book #10, Moon's book (I <3 Moon). I'd recommend this book. 2 thumbs up! :D
* note - I listened to the audio version of this book. The narrator did a very good job.
February 20, 2019
I’m scared all the time but I’m more afraid of wasting the life I’ve been given by never taking chances.
Shadow (who is blonde and blue eyed) and Beauty are super cute. I liked the story enough to want more but everything just kind of happened. I felt bleh the whole time. I still love Breeze. That girl needs her own book!!
Shadow (who is blonde and blue eyed) and Beauty are super cute. I liked the story enough to want more but everything just kind of happened. I felt bleh the whole time. I still love Breeze. That girl needs her own book!!
December 2, 2020
LD mixes it up with our first NS couple!! I knew from Wrath that Shadow isn’t exactly a badass. I expected (with his name) that he’d be dark and mysterious, but he’s blonde/blue eyed and pretty easy-going/funny. Oh well…they can’t all be Darkness….
Shadow (canine mix) was introduced in Brawn and he's messed up. While imprisoned he was hooked to a masturbation machine and forced to watch porn while they stole his semen and pumped him full of drugs. He’s BFF w/ Wrath. (they were in the underground semen collecting warehouse with Obsidian.)
“I was afraid I might hurt you but I’ve wanted you since the moment we met.” He hugged her tighter to him. “I’m damaged and was worried that would cripple me when it came to sharing sex.” His fingers stroked her arm, glad she relaxed. “There isn’t a damn thing pathetic or lacking in you, Beauty.”
Beauty (primate gift) was introduced at the beginning of Justice when Jessie was shot protecting her. She’d been starved and horribly abused and named monkey/mud. She’s incredibly resilient and brave, but I wish she was more proactive in learning how to defend herself. She’s lonely and wanting some sex… I agree with her that it was TOTALLY annoying that everyone felt like they had the right to determine what was best for her… come on… a meeting to determine if she could partake in the D… stay in your lane people!!!
I’m just a woman, Shadow. I’m getting stronger every day and I refuse to be locked inside a box while you and everyone else tosses away the key.
Bottom Line- Not my fav, it was sweet, but rather boring. The chemistry felt forced/fabricated because they were pretty much matched up, and I kept wondering if Beauty would’ve developed feeling for any male “assigned” to her or if Shadow was special. Other than the shoot out and Breeze to once again save the day/book…. I might have 😴😴. I totally understand she was wading through 2 abused characters so it couldn’t be all… grrr let’s do it… but they’ve all been abused… that’s sort of the premise for the entire series. IMO, it was missing the intensity we typically see… and depressing as they circled around their abuse again and again.
**Kit’s still a bitch in this one especially to Book after they share sex. (she was also really bitchy in Obsidian see review for deets) I’m assuming this is because of her wanting to mate Justice, but I feel like it should’ve been addressed in that book, because now we have a character that was pleasant in books 1-3 suddenly become a raging bitch without any explanation. Also, in Obsidian we were told she was holding a grudge because the male she wanted to mate, mated a human, but here, Shadow reflects on when him and Kit were forced to breed while at Mercile, and she was mean then…so which is it? Cuz now, she was bitchy at Mercile, but nice at the beginning of the series, then bitchy again. I get this is book 9, and it’s hard to keep all the info/personalities straight…it’s just that these tiny inconsistencies make me crazy. 😊 ***Brawn’s kid is named Kismet.
Shadow (canine mix) was introduced in Brawn and he's messed up. While imprisoned he was hooked to a masturbation machine and forced to watch porn while they stole his semen and pumped him full of drugs. He’s BFF w/ Wrath. (they were in the underground semen collecting warehouse with Obsidian.)
“I was afraid I might hurt you but I’ve wanted you since the moment we met.” He hugged her tighter to him. “I’m damaged and was worried that would cripple me when it came to sharing sex.” His fingers stroked her arm, glad she relaxed. “There isn’t a damn thing pathetic or lacking in you, Beauty.”
Beauty (primate gift) was introduced at the beginning of Justice when Jessie was shot protecting her. She’d been starved and horribly abused and named monkey/mud. She’s incredibly resilient and brave, but I wish she was more proactive in learning how to defend herself. She’s lonely and wanting some sex… I agree with her that it was TOTALLY annoying that everyone felt like they had the right to determine what was best for her… come on… a meeting to determine if she could partake in the D… stay in your lane people!!!
I’m just a woman, Shadow. I’m getting stronger every day and I refuse to be locked inside a box while you and everyone else tosses away the key.
Bottom Line- Not my fav, it was sweet, but rather boring. The chemistry felt forced/fabricated because they were pretty much matched up, and I kept wondering if Beauty would’ve developed feeling for any male “assigned” to her or if Shadow was special. Other than the shoot out and Breeze to once again save the day/book…. I might have 😴😴. I totally understand she was wading through 2 abused characters so it couldn’t be all… grrr let’s do it… but they’ve all been abused… that’s sort of the premise for the entire series. IMO, it was missing the intensity we typically see… and depressing as they circled around their abuse again and again.
**Kit’s still a bitch in this one especially to Book after they share sex. (she was also really bitchy in Obsidian see review for deets) I’m assuming this is because of her wanting to mate Justice, but I feel like it should’ve been addressed in that book, because now we have a character that was pleasant in books 1-3 suddenly become a raging bitch without any explanation. Also, in Obsidian we were told she was holding a grudge because the male she wanted to mate, mated a human, but here, Shadow reflects on when him and Kit were forced to breed while at Mercile, and she was mean then…so which is it? Cuz now, she was bitchy at Mercile, but nice at the beginning of the series, then bitchy again. I get this is book 9, and it’s hard to keep all the info/personalities straight…it’s just that these tiny inconsistencies make me crazy. 😊 ***Brawn’s kid is named Kismet.
April 12, 2014
I discovered this series by chance and am I glad I did – I could say I have become totally addicted to the New Species World. Crazy, really!! I finish one book and can’t wait to start the next!!!
So amazing to finally have a story where both mc’s are species. A relationship between a male Species and a gift species female. Totally captivated me.
Shadow and Beauty are the most endearing and lovable couple.
Both with pasts filled with sadness, cruelty and never experienced love or care from anyone, trying to find a meaning in their new free lives. Learning and experiencing new things….the scenes where Shadow and Beauty learn to swim is just amazing.
I was enchanted by Beauty – her innocence, her openness to new experiences and finding someone to love really touched me. She has become my favorite heroine in this series!!
I adored Shadow.
Two people, who want to be loved, who want to be together and build a life…that’s what I loved the most in this story. Less outside influences and more about the two as they grow closer together.
I enjoyed the slow build-up of their relationship and, of course there are hot and steamy sex scenes but none of one after another scene….quite a change from previous books.
The interaction between the Species is really awesome. Loving, humorous, caring….they could show us humans a thing or two about having a heart and soul. A cast of fascinating characters that I can’t get enough of.
I am so looking forward to Breeze’s book…………there is going to be one, right?????? She’s such an unforgettable character and her story should be written!!!!
Yes, you are so right………….I opened page 1 of the next book, which happens to be Moon’s story, after turning last page of this book…..there is a cliffhanger here, after all………Moon getting shot…I have to know what happens to him.
New Species Rock!!!
So amazing to finally have a story where both mc’s are species. A relationship between a male Species and a gift species female. Totally captivated me.
Shadow and Beauty are the most endearing and lovable couple.
Both with pasts filled with sadness, cruelty and never experienced love or care from anyone, trying to find a meaning in their new free lives. Learning and experiencing new things….the scenes where Shadow and Beauty learn to swim is just amazing.
I was enchanted by Beauty – her innocence, her openness to new experiences and finding someone to love really touched me. She has become my favorite heroine in this series!!
I adored Shadow.
He’s alpha-male with a ott protectiveness towards Beauty but at the same time he respects her needs and wants and doesn’t just grab her and “mount” her like most of the other specie males do with their human females!!!!
Two people, who want to be loved, who want to be together and build a life…that’s what I loved the most in this story. Less outside influences and more about the two as they grow closer together.
I enjoyed the slow build-up of their relationship and, of course there are hot and steamy sex scenes but none of one after another scene….quite a change from previous books.
The interaction between the Species is really awesome. Loving, humorous, caring….they could show us humans a thing or two about having a heart and soul. A cast of fascinating characters that I can’t get enough of.
I am so looking forward to Breeze’s book…………there is going to be one, right?????? She’s such an unforgettable character and her story should be written!!!!
Yes, you are so right………….I opened page 1 of the next book, which happens to be Moon’s story, after turning last page of this book…..there is a cliffhanger here, after all………Moon getting shot…I have to know what happens to him.
April 23, 2013
I loved this book! I definitely enjoyed it more than Tiger, and possibly even more tha Justice. So the best, or second best of the series so far. At first, I thought people would try to give them a hard time because she is a Gift. But after that initial mix up, once Beauty told Breeze that she was actually interested in Shadow, everyone did everything possible to help make it work for them. They gave Beauty and Shadow all the time and space they needed to get to know each other. It was so easy for them. I really dont like when pointless complications get between a couple. Thats why I didnt enjoy Brawn as much as most, and why I usually dont enjoy contemporary romances.
Everything just clicked for Beauty and Shadow. They were amazing and both damaged and adorable with each other. And I loved Beauty. Definitely the best heroine so far. She was Gift, so she was naturally meek and afraid. But you cant have courage without fear, and Beauty definitely has courage. I love how she was able to stand up for herself, unlike the other Gifts, and she even fought for Shadow when she had to. The book still managed to fit in an attempted kidnapping and Beauty handled herself amazingly. Just the right amount of action for this story.
There wasnt as much smut-content in this one as the other books. They had sex I think twice before the kidnapping, and once after, which really isnt a lot compared to the rest of the series. But holy eff! They did a 69! I thought, "No way, Laurann isnt gonna go there. Its gonna cut out on us any second now. She's not really gonna go there. Oh my gosh did that just happen?!" I have never seen that done in a book before!
I am so excited to read Moon, but also really sad. Its a lot of fun to marathon a series while it lasts, but when its done its heartbreaking. I dont want it to end, and I am considering checking out one of Laurann Dohner other series, Ral's Woman or Burning up Flint, but New Species is her most highly rated.
Everything just clicked for Beauty and Shadow. They were amazing and both damaged and adorable with each other. And I loved Beauty. Definitely the best heroine so far. She was Gift, so she was naturally meek and afraid. But you cant have courage without fear, and Beauty definitely has courage. I love how she was able to stand up for herself, unlike the other Gifts, and she even fought for Shadow when she had to. The book still managed to fit in an attempted kidnapping and Beauty handled herself amazingly. Just the right amount of action for this story.
There wasnt as much smut-content in this one as the other books. They had sex I think twice before the kidnapping, and once after, which really isnt a lot compared to the rest of the series. But holy eff! They did a 69! I thought, "No way, Laurann isnt gonna go there. Its gonna cut out on us any second now. She's not really gonna go there. Oh my gosh did that just happen?!" I have never seen that done in a book before!
I am so excited to read Moon, but also really sad. Its a lot of fun to marathon a series while it lasts, but when its done its heartbreaking. I dont want it to end, and I am considering checking out one of Laurann Dohner other series, Ral's Woman or Burning up Flint, but New Species is her most highly rated.
November 14, 2020
I was thrilled to see that Beauty would be getting a novel of her own, despite the fact that most of these books seem to be focusing on the male New Species instead of the females. Beauty is a great character, and she’s quite tough despite what she’s been through and the fact that she’s so small compared to everyone else. I love when characters that are perceived as “weak” surprise everyone, and this book does not disappoint in this regard.
The romance between Shadow and Beauty is quite the slow burn. There’s a lot of action in the latter half of the book, making this yet another thrill-ride romantic suspense.
We’re also introduced to a new character in this book--Leo--but I’m disappointed to see that he doesn’t have a book coming up. Darn! He’s a prankster who lives in the Wild Zone, and I really, really, really want to see more of him in the upcoming novels.
The romance between Shadow and Beauty is quite the slow burn. There’s a lot of action in the latter half of the book, making this yet another thrill-ride romantic suspense.
We’re also introduced to a new character in this book--Leo--but I’m disappointed to see that he doesn’t have a book coming up. Darn! He’s a prankster who lives in the Wild Zone, and I really, really, really want to see more of him in the upcoming novels.
May 20, 2012
Shadow is a very damaged new species due to the experiments done to him. He has survived but at what cost. He finds his mate and realizes that life has meaning and purpose.
September 6, 2012
LOVED the first 3/4 so much. Last 1/4 slowed down so much I became frustrated. Shadow and Beauty were lovely characters though!
February 27, 2014
I had forgotten how much I enjoy the New Species series. After taking a break from reading them, it was fun to get back into these characters.
January 20, 2020
3.5 stars!
I'm so glad I've skipped 2 books to read Shadow and Beauty's story just now! :)
As I assumed, Shadow was sweet and protective of the Gift Female and his awkwardness and insecurities made him even cuter ;)
I loved it that a Gift Female got a book of her own! At last! Beauty, formerly Mud, was imprisoned and abused all her life, so, after freeing her, everyone in NSO assumed she was afraid of all and any males and separated her completely...
She spent her time mostly with Tiny and Halfpint, but also with Breeze. And she simply got curious... about males, about other Species females inviting males to their bedrooms, about the sex itself.
It was refreshing to finally see a Species/Species pairing - don't get me wrong, all those big buff NSO officers finding their human mates were so much fun! I simply wanted something new, something fresh and something to show me that those most fragile Species women had 'balls', too... ;)
Shadow was great and supportive of Wrath and Lauren already in book 6 of the series, Wrath, and I simply couldn't wait to read his story. And I loved it! :) He's so damaged inside and yet willing to try being with Beauty because she wanted him and to experiment with the big Species in the bedroom.
Although not my favourite (I think Wrath's story is the best so far), I greatly enjoyed this read. Shadow is a great MC, sweet and protective, but also open to new things and respecting Beauty as a Species. And Beauty was simply amazing: curious, brave, fierce (she surprised me with her determination to defend herself and her close ones) - truly, bravo to Ms Dohner for making her a heroine! :)
I'm so glad I've skipped 2 books to read Shadow and Beauty's story just now! :)
As I assumed, Shadow was sweet and protective of the Gift Female and his awkwardness and insecurities made him even cuter ;)
I loved it that a Gift Female got a book of her own! At last! Beauty, formerly Mud, was imprisoned and abused all her life, so, after freeing her, everyone in NSO assumed she was afraid of all and any males and separated her completely...
She spent her time mostly with Tiny and Halfpint, but also with Breeze. And she simply got curious... about males, about other Species females inviting males to their bedrooms, about the sex itself.
It was refreshing to finally see a Species/Species pairing - don't get me wrong, all those big buff NSO officers finding their human mates were so much fun! I simply wanted something new, something fresh and something to show me that those most fragile Species women had 'balls', too... ;)
Shadow was great and supportive of Wrath and Lauren already in book 6 of the series, Wrath, and I simply couldn't wait to read his story. And I loved it! :) He's so damaged inside and yet willing to try being with Beauty because she wanted him and to experiment with the big Species in the bedroom.
Although not my favourite (I think Wrath's story is the best so far), I greatly enjoyed this read. Shadow is a great MC, sweet and protective, but also open to new things and respecting Beauty as a Species. And Beauty was simply amazing: curious, brave, fierce (she surprised me with her determination to defend herself and her close ones) - truly, bravo to Ms Dohner for making her a heroine! :)
Want to Read
September 7, 2012The cover!!! Love it!
October 30, 2012
I need moon's book NOW!!!!
November 27, 2024
Es el libro más tierno e inocente de la saga.
Grata sorpresa me di cuando caí en cuenta que iba a contar la historia de dos especies siendo compañeros. Fue algo nuevo y no decepcionó
Shadow y Bella están hechos el uno para el otro y no hay discusión en el asunto.
La trama fue buena e igual fue distinta ya que todo ocurre dentro de la Reserva. Nos dio un vistazo de más personajes, cómo se organizan las especies salvajes y espero que en un futuro se profundice en ello
Dejaron la trama abierta para la próxima historia y eso es algo que me gusta ya que llega un hilo toda esta historia, me gusta
Grata sorpresa me di cuando caí en cuenta que iba a contar la historia de dos especies siendo compañeros. Fue algo nuevo y no decepcionó
Shadow y Bella están hechos el uno para el otro y no hay discusión en el asunto.
La trama fue buena e igual fue distinta ya que todo ocurre dentro de la Reserva. Nos dio un vistazo de más personajes, cómo se organizan las especies salvajes y espero que en un futuro se profundice en ello
Dejaron la trama abierta para la próxima historia y eso es algo que me gusta ya que llega un hilo toda esta historia, me gusta
August 16, 2019
Find comfort together
I am so happy that the author told this story. I was really hoping that one of the gift females would find their HEA. The author couldn’t have picked a better mate for Shadow or Beauty, both of them had been through so much. It’s a shame that they had to suffer a few set backs before they found their happiness. I think the author did a fantastic job with this book and I can’t wait to read the next one.
I am so happy that the author told this story. I was really hoping that one of the gift females would find their HEA. The author couldn’t have picked a better mate for Shadow or Beauty, both of them had been through so much. It’s a shame that they had to suffer a few set backs before they found their happiness. I think the author did a fantastic job with this book and I can’t wait to read the next one.
November 9, 2014
Шадоу (Кучешки Нов Вид) и Бюти (Маймунски Нов Вид/Жена подарък)
Бюти е жена подарък. Нов вид създаден умишлено слаб физически, за да бъде дадена като подарък за богатите дарители на Мерикъл. Обикновено съдбата на жените подарък е много тежка, малтретирани, насилвани и поругавани още от дете. Бюти е една от 3те жени подаръци, спасена от екипа работещ за Новите Видове. Именно заради миналото си обаче, Бюти за разлика от останалите жени подаръци, не иска да е непрестанно пазена. Тя чете любовни романи и мечтае да намери любовта. Мечтае към нея да се отнасят като с нормална жена, а не като с дете, което трябва да е закриляно от всички и всичко. След поредната вечер в която не може да слуша как другите жени в общежитието се забавляват с мъже от мъжкото общежитие, тъй като е прекалено самотна и копнее за компания, Бюти решава да излезе навън. Тичайки в дъжда, чувствайки се жива, тя се сблъсква с Шадоу и света й се променя.
Шадоу патрулира през нощта в Хоумленд, когато вижда жена тичаща в дъжда. Решавайки, че може би е човешки шпионин и виждайки я да бяга, той мисли, че може би е заложила бомба и решава да я хване, за да измъкне истината от нея. Събаряйки я на земята обаче, той е ужасен виждайки, че не е човек, а жена подарък. На мъжете в Хоъмленд им е забранено дори да се доближават до жените подаръци. Те са на ясно, че жените са използвани като секс робини, и че се боят да са около други мъже. Той я отвежда в един склад, далеч от бурята и прави опит да повика на помощ жени офицери, но Бюти не му позволява. Той дори не подозира, че тя копнее да остане с него и въобще не се бои.
След някои недоразумения, в крайна сметка Новите Видове разбират, че Бюти не е като другите жени подарък, че е привлечена от Шадоу и иска да се сближи с него. Че е любопитна за интимните отношения между мъжа и жената иска да експериментира. Шадоу и Бюти са изпратени заедно в една колиба в Резервата, където да имат шанс да се сближат. Но Бюти не е като другите жени Ниви Видове, тя е срамежлива и не може да е толкова директна, колкото са другите жени. Шадоу пък е прекалено разтревожен, че кошмарите от миналото могат да му попречат да бъде с нея и предпочита да страни. Но скоро, тези две изтерзани души ще разберат, че единственото щастие, което могат да намерят е щом са заедно.
Тази книга ми отне малко повечко време. Беше ми леко скучна в първата половина от историята. Бюти познаваме от книгата "Джъстис". Там Джеси спаси Бюти, давайки й името й. Шадоу пък познаваме от "Браун", той беше един от мъжете измъчван в лабораторията в която бяха затворени Бека и Браун. Измъчван като му даваха наркотици, карайки го да се възбуди и връзвайки за секс машина, с която да съберат генетичен материал и да го продадат. И двамата герои имаха само неприятни изживявания свързани със секса и по тази причина имаше доста недоразумения помежду им, тълкувайки погрешно нещата, които правеше другият. И все пак като се разбраха станаха много сладка двойка. И в крайна сметка историята потръгна по-динамично, първо, като Терънт нападна Шадоу, мислейки си, че насилва Бюти и след това, когато пристигнаха наемниците на бившият господар на Бюти, за да я върнат отново в плен. Хареса ми как свърши историята и как се развиха нещата между Шадоу и Бюти.
Бюти е жена подарък. Нов вид създаден умишлено слаб физически, за да бъде дадена като подарък за богатите дарители на Мерикъл. Обикновено съдбата на жените подарък е много тежка, малтретирани, насилвани и поругавани още от дете. Бюти е една от 3те жени подаръци, спасена от екипа работещ за Новите Видове. Именно заради миналото си обаче, Бюти за разлика от останалите жени подаръци, не иска да е непрестанно пазена. Тя чете любовни романи и мечтае да намери любовта. Мечтае към нея да се отнасят като с нормална жена, а не като с дете, което трябва да е закриляно от всички и всичко. След поредната вечер в която не може да слуша как другите жени в общежитието се забавляват с мъже от мъжкото общежитие, тъй като е прекалено самотна и копнее за компания, Бюти решава да излезе навън. Тичайки в дъжда, чувствайки се жива, тя се сблъсква с Шадоу и света й се променя.
Шадоу патрулира през нощта в Хоумленд, когато вижда жена тичаща в дъжда. Решавайки, че може би е човешки шпионин и виждайки я да бяга, той мисли, че може би е заложила бомба и решава да я хване, за да измъкне истината от нея. Събаряйки я на земята обаче, той е ужасен виждайки, че не е човек, а жена подарък. На мъжете в Хоъмленд им е забранено дори да се доближават до жените подаръци. Те са на ясно, че жените са използвани като секс робини, и че се боят да са около други мъже. Той я отвежда в един склад, далеч от бурята и прави опит да повика на помощ жени офицери, но Бюти не му позволява. Той дори не подозира, че тя копнее да остане с него и въобще не се бои.
След някои недоразумения, в крайна сметка Новите Видове разбират, че Бюти не е като другите жени подарък, че е привлечена от Шадоу и иска да се сближи с него. Че е любопитна за интимните отношения между мъжа и жената иска да експериментира. Шадоу и Бюти са изпратени заедно в една колиба в Резервата, където да имат шанс да се сближат. Но Бюти не е като другите жени Ниви Видове, тя е срамежлива и не може да е толкова директна, колкото са другите жени. Шадоу пък е прекалено разтревожен, че кошмарите от миналото могат да му попречат да бъде с нея и предпочита да страни. Но скоро, тези две изтерзани души ще разберат, че единственото щастие, което могат да намерят е щом са заедно.
Тази книга ми отне малко повечко време. Беше ми леко скучна в първата половина от историята. Бюти познаваме от книгата "Джъстис". Там Джеси спаси Бюти, давайки й името й. Шадоу пък познаваме от "Браун", той беше един от мъжете измъчван в лабораторията в която бяха затворени Бека и Браун. Измъчван като му даваха наркотици, карайки го да се възбуди и връзвайки за секс машина, с която да съберат генетичен материал и да го продадат. И двамата герои имаха само неприятни изживявания свързани със секса и по тази причина имаше доста недоразумения помежду им, тълкувайки погрешно нещата, които правеше другият. И все пак като се разбраха станаха много сладка двойка. И в крайна сметка историята потръгна по-динамично, първо, като Терънт нападна Шадоу, мислейки си, че насилва Бюти и след това, когато пристигнаха наемниците на бившият господар на Бюти, за да я върнат отново в плен. Хареса ми как свърши историята и как се развиха нещата между Шадоу и Бюти.
January 19, 2015
This is one beautiful heart-wrenching story for me. It was something different, something fresh. A different perspective. And most importantly, I get to know a little more about Gift.
Gift are Species but their genetic engineering was that they were created as docile, meek, and submissive. They were ‘domesticated’. They are small, more human in features, and viewed as fragile. They were specifically created to be given as gift, thus the name, and given to Mercile investors who treated them like pets and sex slaves. Some of them were also sold to the highest bidder.
Mud was a Gift, rescued from her Master. After the rescue, she took the name Beauty. Freedom didn’t suit well for her. Since they are viewed as fragile, male Species gave a wide berth to them, not approaching because they might bolt, or worse, relive their captivity. But Beauty was not like any other Gift. Her captivity was not any less nightmarish than the others, but she doesn’t cringe and feels afraid if males were to ever approach her. She feels longing, wishing for a connection to another Species.
Shadow is tainted and fears sex. He suffered under the breeding drugs, and it was the worst that they could have endure, so much worse than the beatings they receive. He fears physical connection because he was afraid to relive what he endured.
Shadow and Beauty was like a match made from the beginning. That’s all I can think about. And I actually like how they met. I mean, seriously. Tackling someone to the ground under the rain? Yep.
My heart aches for the both of them. I wanted them to have their Happily Ever After. It was, for me like a Beauty and the Beast.
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