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Spirit Shifters #1

Autumn's Blood

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In a discreet government facility in Chicago, scientists are trying to unearth the truth behind a group of people who appear to have the ability to shift into the form of animals.

Ensconced among the government officials, Blake Wolfcollar hides the truth of what he is, struggling between his desire to help those he’s a part of, while remaining undercover in his position ...

The last thing Autumn Anderson expects upon starting her new job is the dangerous, sexy man whose touch seems to burn. But an accident unleashes a potential she never knew she held inside her, and Autumn and Blake find themselves on the run.

As their feelings for one another grow, they must fight to preserve the secret that could see the end of them both...

220 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 12, 2013

187 people are currently reading
1130 people want to read

About the author

Marissa Farrar

157 books1,081 followers
Marissa Farrar is a multi-published romance and fantasy author. She was born in Devon, England, loves to travel and has lived in both Australia and Spain. She now resides in the countryside with her husband, three children, a crazy Spanish dog, two rescue cats and six hens. She has a degree in Zoology, but her true love has always been writing.

Marissa is the author of sixteen novels, including the dark vampire ‘Serenity’ series. Her short stories have been accepted for a number of anthologies including, Their Dark Masters, Red Skies Press, Masters of Horror: Damned If You Don’t, Triskaideka Books; and 2013: The Aftermath, Pill Hill Press.

If you want to know more about Marissa, then please visit her website at www.marissa-farrar.blogspot.com. You can also find her at her facebook page, www.facebook.com/marissa.farrar.author or follow her on twitter @marissafarrar.
She loves to hear from readers and can be emailed at marissafarrar@hotmail.co.uk.

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5 stars
220 (29%)
4 stars
221 (30%)
3 stars
190 (25%)
2 stars
74 (10%)
1 star
30 (4%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
Profile Image for Nancy Steinle gummel.
507 reviews98 followers
November 1, 2014
Autumn's Blood by Marissa Farrar is a different take on shifters as a whole. These are spirit shifters. The shifted creatures find a human and attach themself to the person. The younger you are, the stronger the shifter. Blake Wolfcollar was chosen as an infant. He has a very close affinity to his wolf. He can send his wolf spirit ahead to look for danger. Blake is a native American and the native Americans as a whole are more readily predisposed to accept shifters. Blake is like a spy for shifters. He is stubborn and has a bad temper. He's employed by the government. His boss, Maxim Dumas wants to find the DNA code that makes a person a shifter. He envisions an army of shifters. They're stronger, heal faster and can spy on the enemy without exposing themselves. Autumn Anderson is hired by Dumas to find the link. She accidently cuts herself and her blood is the catalyst. Blake takes her and flees. She is the last of the makers. Tribal lore as told by Blake's father tells the tale of the makers. Chogan, Blake's cousin is excited. All Blake is interested in is protecting Autumn.
Profile Image for Janie.
235 reviews5 followers
August 16, 2013
I was given this book by the author in return for an honest review.

What an exciting story! I have always loved shifter stories but this was something a whole lot more!!!!

Autumn is a fantastic main character and is made to realise rather quickly that shifter's exist and that SHE is the key to the government being able to build a "SUPER" army!!!
Blake (a shifter) helps Autumn to escape her fate of being locked in a cell and having her blood taken and used against her will!!!
The two with the help of other shifter's plan to rescue the shifter's that a re being held and tortured!!
In the midst of all this Autumn and Blake realise that they have fallen in love with each other!!!
I cannot wait to read the second book to see what happens after Blakes cousin "Chogan" has tried to announce to the world that shifter's do indeed exist!!!

Excellent book and well worth anyones time to read it!!!!!!!!
Profile Image for Sue Wallace .
7,398 reviews139 followers
January 9, 2016
In a discreet government facility in Chicago scientists are trying to unearth the truth behind a group of people who appear to have the ability to shift into the form of an animal.

OMG. Wow. Absolutely fantastic read.
CNPID.
I loved the story and the characters. Blake and Autumn are my favourite characters.
I knew this would be a page Turner.
Lots of action from page one.
Can't wait for book 2.
This is a must read and I would highly recommend this book.
5 * although I would have given more if I could.
Profile Image for Iris Hunter (InstagramREADS).
696 reviews80 followers
January 17, 2015
Fun urban fantasy book, but i would not call it paranormal romance by a long shot. Hard to get in to when the character never have to regular stuff like showers, eat or go to bathroom.
I don't want to read that a couple of days have passed by. I want to experience it.

The book had one main event, hopefully the next one will be a little edit more packed.
Profile Image for Sean.
1,003 reviews22 followers
February 9, 2016
a wonderful start to a series that has such potential. love thr native motif she has used with imagery.

Blake a strong enforcer and gifted as a shifter is out in a horrid spot where he must put his honour to the test.

the Dr is interesting and can't wait to see what happens next with her

Chogan cousin or betrayer what is he really. his story has just begun
Profile Image for Mari.
1,529 reviews10 followers
May 3, 2020
3.5 - 4.0 ***

I received the audio book for free. It was a paranormal story about an undercover shifter and a researcher trying to save imprisoned shifters from an evil gov't facility. It was OK and I'm intrigued enough to put the next book on my kindle. I thought the narrator, Teri Clark Linden was very good.
Profile Image for Tara Lyons.
Author 12 books109 followers
September 27, 2017
This is the first book I've read by this author and I have to say it won't be the last! Autumn's Blood is full of tension, romance and a bulked-up hottie who shifts into a wolf... what's not to love!

The storyline is full of intrigue and had me hooked. The characters are interesting and even though we learn a lot about them, I know there's still so much to come. It's an exciting start to a series.

I thought a paranormal romance would be out of my comforting zone, usually preferring crime and thriller reads, but then I remembered what a fan I am of the Twilight Saga and began Autumn's Blood with high hopes. This author does not disappoint and I'm looking forward to reading the second in the series!
282 reviews8 followers
February 9, 2014
If you're looking for a shifter story with a difference, then this is it. Unlike other stories whereby you are born a shifter or are infected by a bite, the shifters in this series are actually animal guides. According to Native Indian legend, we all have an animal guide and in this series' reality, some shifters integrate with their animal guide from birth (making them much stronger) whilst others are introduced to their animal guide in their teens.

Dr Autumn Anderson is a world renowned geneticist who is something of a genius. She attends an interview for a job with a secret government department but she isn't told exactly what the top secret project is about. The project is run by a General Maxim Dumas and his head of security is Blake Wolfcollar. Dumas has discovered that shifters exist and he has captured three of them to study. It is his intention to create an army of shifters but first, he must discover what it is that makes them shift. Although he runs a tight ship, Dumas is unaware that his head of security and head of research are both shifters who have infiltrated the team to try and keep one step ahead.

On her second day at work, Autumn has a laboratory accident which reveals that her blood is special to shifters. Blake is informed and they both go on the run even though Autumn doesn’t know what she is running from. Blake tries to explain what the project is about but she just scoffs at him believing that shifters are just a myth. He decides that the quickest and easiest way to persuade her of the importance of them staying hidden and on the run is to shift in front of her. From then on, her life is never the same again. Staying one step ahead of Dumas’ team is a mission in itself but throughout it all, Blake keeps her safe. Despite being on the run, they also decide that they have to go back to the laboratory to free the shifter captives. They are assisted by Blake’s cousin Chogan and other shifters from his old reservation but there is animosity between the two which Autumn finds herself caught up in. This is book one of the trilogy and I can’t wait to read the other two, although I may wait until book 3 is released before reading book 2 as I hate having to wait ages for all the books to be written/released!


Profile Image for Lyn Mckenzie.
874 reviews16 followers
March 31, 2016
You always know that when you read marissa farrar's work how amazing it is going to be and also how unique - this one just set the bar even higher. I loved this books so much, i was compelled to just keep turning the pages to find out what was going to happen.
I loved the idea of the spirit shifters, i have read a lot of books about shifters in many different aspects but the idea of spirit shifters just sang to me, it was just so unique and original. Having a spirit choose you is such a compelling read!!!
Autumn's charachter was so well written, it is always so nice to read about a strong capable woman in books, what can i say i like strength in woman and the way she has been written captures her inner beauty and strength. SHe matches up to Blake so well, they are both so strong in completely differnet ways. Blake is such the Alpha male in his caring and protective manner although he tries to cover it all with a mask, this ws portrayed so well.
One of the things i found the most appealing in this book is when they go back to the reservation. There is just such a feeling of family and home there and although Blake hasnt been back for 10 years they all want to help. This is the part of the book that o feel is just so well written. I just cant wait to take on the next book.

As always this deserves more than 5 stars and everyone should read this.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Cheryl.
85 reviews12 followers
December 2, 2014
This was the Audio Version of the book.

" A Whole different type of Shifters"
What made the experience of listening to Autumn's Blood the most enjoyable?
I really enjoyed listening to the Audio Version rather then actually reading the book because I really got immersed into the story.

What did you like best about this story?
The story was so different the other "shifters"stories. Instead of being born a shifter After your born a spirit shifter will choose you. The younger you are when this happens the stronger a connection you will have with your spirit shifter. Your spirit shifter (wolf, bear, panther, eagle, etc) is able to travel ahead of you and send back images to you.

What does Teri Clark Linden bring to the story that you wouldn't experience if you just read the book?
Teri in my opinion was a great narrator. There are some narrators that just do not get the characters tone or the feel of them. But Teri really hit on each character.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?
When Autumn went to see her father and he treated her like she was interfering with his time. I hope we get a better view of Autumns relationship with her father.

Any additional comments?
I looked for book two Saving Autumn but not in Audio yet, I will be buying it when it has been competed.
Profile Image for Lisa.
342 reviews6 followers
August 28, 2014
I've read several of Ms. Farrar's works and this one certainly doesn't disappoint!
I loved e storyline, the action, the characters. The romance was mild and didn't distract from the real story like a lot of paranormal books. The spirit guide aspect and Native American belief isn't lost.
Blake is a super, alpha male, with a broken past. Autumn brings in the nerdy, smart girl that is often never seen as a main character. Chogan is different. I'm looking forward to seeing what is truly going on with him and. What his past with Blake's girl really was. I was surprised by Haverly too...
Multiple perspectives with many twists & turns make for a great read!
Looking forward to the next one in this series.
Profile Image for Helen May.
219 reviews
June 8, 2014
Interesting shifter story. Characters lacked depth. Had a hard time just trying to finish it. Has potential.
Profile Image for Angarad.
1,503 reviews22 followers
June 20, 2014
Alright story and interesting concept to explain the shifters but not my favourite. Also didn't feel any connexion with the characters so I couldn't really get into the book.
Profile Image for Jen.
6 reviews1 follower
August 9, 2014
Interesting concept but unfortunately I could not "get into" the book. Will most likely give it another go at a later date.
Profile Image for Jae.
879 reviews1 follower
October 26, 2022
Autumn's Blood by Marissa Farrar is the first book in the "Spirit Shifters" series. Main characters are Doctor Autumn Anderson and spirit shifter Blake Wolfcollar.

When Autumn is recruited to work for the government conducting genetic experiments, she jumps at the chance. Although annoyed that she's kept in the dark about most of the details of the project, Autumn is aware this will be a good move for her career. Blake is working at the same facility, ostensibly as security, but he's actually there to monitor just how close the government is getting in the effort to learn the shifters' secrets. He doesn't dare let on that he's a shifter, even though it means he must bide his time while the cruel head of the project, Maxim Dumas, mistreats the shifters he's managed to take captive. While Autumn is conducting an experiment, her blood accidentally mixes with her genetic samples, creating the mutation the government has been hoping to replicate. She may be confused by the implications, but Blake knows that Autumn is now in danger. He grabs her and they go on the run. Will they be able to rescue the captive shifters and keep Autumn out of Dumas' greedy hands?

In a word, blah. It took me forever to read this because it simply didn't hold my attention. World building was spotty at best, characters were not fleshed out, precious little background was provided, nor were explanations made to any level of satisfaction. Within mere days Autumn fancies herself in love with Blake. That's not love, sweetie; that's Stockholm Syndrome. And it was boring. The entire story was boring. It was a grueling slog just to get through it.
Profile Image for Cassandra MADEUP BookBlog.
458 reviews9 followers
May 20, 2018
Wow!

I have read many Paranormal, werewolf, part human type romance/action stories before, and i enjoy them.

This was a pleasant surprise! Unpredictable in how it unfolds, it didn’t go the way I expected, and I enjoyed every moment.

The characters have their own pasts, their own quirks and are each likeable for different reasons.

This was the first book I have read by Marissa, but i find myself looking forwards to the next!

This was a brilliant, fast paced read that reminded me exactly why i love these kinds of stories. Heartwarming, with just enough action and suspense, a brilliant mix of emotions and a story that’s just that bit different enough to make you need to know what the next instalment will bring!

If you enjoy paranormal/werewolf/shifter type books, you need to pick this up!
Profile Image for Chyina Powell.
Author 12 books25 followers
February 20, 2019
Blake left his reservation and hasn't returned in ten years. Now, he works in a secret government facility that captures his own people. People who can take the shape of their spirit animal, people known as shifters.

Autumn is a genius who has had to prove herself all her life. Now that she has a chance to work for the government, she feels as though she has made it in the scientific world. When her boss demands that she changes human DNA into something else, she accidentally cuts her hand which forces her into a dark world of government conspiracies and the secret world of the shifters.

I believe that while I enjoyed this novel, it isn't for those looking for a deep intellectual read. It was a fun and interesting tale and I enjoyed the characters' interactions with one another although I wish I could've seen more of it.
Profile Image for Rachel C..
1,074 reviews36 followers
November 8, 2017
1.5 stars. Somewhere between "it was ok" and "it was kinda horrible." I have to admit that my primary dislike of this book is due to the fact that I'm a biologist (and more importantly a geneticist) that is somewhat offended by the scientific attempts in this book. For a layperson it would probably have the "oh cool" effect. For me, it's more like a "you've got to be kidding me" attempt. Don't get me wrong, I love science-fiction. However, this one tried a little too hard in my opinion. Particularly since that wasn't the only thing that bothered me, because honestly? The writing got to me. I felt like editing this book the entire time I was reading it. I have 0% interest in continuing this series.
Profile Image for Brittany Goodman.
920 reviews127 followers
March 4, 2017
Different

This story takes a different approach to shifters and makes it interesting. There is action and romance which never actually progressed to sex, but it got close. There was also profanity. The story itself was captivating, but the almost sex and the profanity brought the stars down.
Profile Image for Emma Turner.
400 reviews9 followers
August 22, 2017
I read this out of curiosity and was very disappointed. Sadly every cliche is in this book - young brilliant scientist, underground government organisation, massively muscled hard man. It just felt very rushed. The shifter concept had some promise but she just rushed far too much and had no time for character development. Very generic.
278 reviews5 followers
November 4, 2018
Very Intriguing and Spellbinding!!!

I was very intrigued with all of the characters, and really enjoyed this different viewpoint about shifters. I am looking forward to reading the next book about Autumn and the shifters!! I would recommend this book to anyone that loves a great read!
Profile Image for Jennifer Holzapfel.
1,037 reviews4 followers
May 28, 2019
Excellent plot with shifters as people who are chosen at birth by a spirit animal. Autumn is a geneticist who gets offered a government job, that has high security and a hot and sexy Blake Wolfcollar, the head of security. A lab accident reveals something about Autumn which forces Blake to run off with her, to protect shifters and her blood is the key that they need. This is first in the series.
Profile Image for Shannon Risdon.
706 reviews
June 20, 2019
Not what I expected

Knew there was shifters in here but must admit the variant and twists in this story were fun. Strong leading characters, good and bad guys, twists and new directions in life take them all in the direction no one expects...Will be interesting to see where they go next...
Profile Image for Victoria Duperron-Haynes .
43 reviews1 follower
May 7, 2019
Well done and different with the spiritual aspect

Interesting story line that differentiates itself from other shifter novels. It has interesting scientific and spiritual aspects. Very good and enjoyable.
Profile Image for Sarah.
158 reviews
September 19, 2017
Eh, it's alright. I liked it when they talked about genetics, and then the start off was filled with fun turns. Interesting idea, but didn't do much for me.
16.6k reviews153 followers
February 14, 2018
What a start

This is such a great start to what will be a wonderful series. Couldn't put it down as wanted to know what would happen next
412 reviews
May 15, 2018
Interesting

It is a interesting story. Different take on shifters. Lots of action and it keeps you guessing about what's up next.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews

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