Tempted by Evil

Light and Shadow Trilogy #1

by Shannon Morton, Amber Lynn Natusch

"He eyed me wildly from the floor below, and I watched as an unmistakable shift occurred in his gaze―concern bled to ambivalence, then nothing at all. His expression was cold as stone. Within seconds I was sprawled on the floor, pressed heavily against it by the weight of his body.
Escape was futile.
I could not fight the Shadow away."


A sheltered girl.
The perfect boy.
A mysterious stranger.
Random messages delivering a sobering prophecy plague Aspen's existence. With every curious encounter, her sanity waivers further. Before long, Aspen finds herself balancing the fate of humanity on her shoulders, until a single act turns her world upside down. She finds herself alone, isolated from those she thought she could trust.
Alone to damn the world.

Genres: Young Adult, Paranormal, Fantasy, Demons, Urban Fantasy, Supernatural, Romance

226 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 18, 2012

About the author

I'm a reader of fantasy turned writer who enjoys great characters and fascinating plot twists. When I'm not writing, I can be found teaching Pilates, being mommy to two fabulous kiddos, or just generally being a crazy sarcastic insomniac mess!!

Reviews

[Desiree DeOrto · Rating 2 out of 5]

Okay, so I love Amber Lynn Natusch and her books. Seriously I do. But for some reason I just COULD NOT get into this. There was just a 'lacking' in it that I could not get over. The entire time I was reading it I just kept thinking to myself "and your point?". I didn't even begin to fall into the book until near the end, but then it ended to quickly. The lack of action made the book really slow to me. Yeah, some parts were creepy (especially the little girl standing alone on the street staring off into space then saying the creepy omen) but it lacked enough to keep me interested, whether by love, supernatural events, or action. And I can't get over how Aspen was okay with just meeting someone and being like, "oh, I just met you and you want me to follow you to your house and spend the night and accept a job from your parents whom I don't know? OKAY!" I know, she's a convent baby and has NO clue about how evil the outside world is, but still, I like to think that common sense is applicable to everyone regardless of where they were raised. So, even though I have a vague feeling of "eh" when it comes to this book, it doesn't mean other people won't absolutely love it and get all drool worthy over it. I'm just not that into it. Maybe book 2 will pick up the slack where this left off.....

[AmberB · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5/until the ending which gets 4.25 ... I have to say, I really was looking forward to this book (because I love the Caged series by A. Natusch). After I read this I had to take some time to think about how I felt. Lets start off saying that I loved from 70% on and the ending was awesome. I am scratching my head trying to figure it out. My mind is all over the place! Leading up to that, I have mixed feelings except for any part with the yummy mystery man :-) I think I just didn't like Aspen as a character and I was extremely indifferent with Julian. Honestly I cannot put my finger on the reason. It had nothing to do with her lack of life experience, she just annoyed, irritated and frustrated me and not in a good way. Even when she was starting to get into a relationship with Mr. Nice Guy, I just didn't feel any connection to either of them. I don't know, if I think about it some more maybe I could figure it out. Will I read the next one, heck yes. I couldn't walk away after that ending!

[Kristy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tempted By Evil is the first book in a new YA series. The story revolves around Aspen, an orphaned teenager who grew up in a convent. The book picks up soon after Aspen leaves the convent to make a life of her own. She meets a young man, Julian, who befriends her and helps her begin to adjust to her new life; however things are not always as they seem...

There is just so much to love about this story! The characters are fantastic and the story moves along at a good pace. It is unpredictable and original and I loved the paranormal aspects that are introduced throughout this novel. This story is quite dark, but tinged with humor and sweet moments. I am anxious to learn more about the wonderful characters and Aspen's destiny, especially after the heart-stopping ending! I'll be impatiently waiting for the next book in this series!

[BW · Rating 5 out of 5]

All I can say is Julian is to perfect. What he's hiding is major sauce and I can't help but wonder were Merrick fits in!! Can we assign teams? Is that official yet?

Cuz I am team Merrick!! Why do I trust that silent but deadly? The guy that has all the answers yet keeps it all to himself. That's Merrick!!

[Seirra · Rating 4 out of 5]

A review copy was provided by the authors for an honest review. Tempted by Evil grabbed my attention immediately. It's well written, mystifying, a little dark, and has a touch of romance. Aspen is the main character; she's a little naive, sarcastic, and at times shy which creates fascinating characteristics. She is sheltered from the ways of the world because she was raised by nuns in a convent her entire life. Upon turning eighteen she decides to make a break for it and leave all that she's ever known behind. Believing all will be provided she fatefully meets a strange boy named Julian who teaches her how to have fun and provides a place for her to stay. Julian is flawless, gentlemanly, wealthy, and incredibly understanding - the perfect male specimen. That's when strange things start to occur, explicable events begin pushing Aspen to make impossible decisions that war with her very nature.

Then there's Merrick who keeps appearing out of nowhere following Aspen around, piquing her interest in him ever more. At times I felt Aspen acted very childish but as the story continues to progress you start to understand why that is and it lays the groundwork for a really cool concept. She is very out of place in society and even more than she realizes especially when strangers keep coming up to her ranting about a crazy prophecy. Tempted by Evil snowballs from a simple story into that of a more complicated one. The suspense will drive you crazy because soo many events unfold and it's only towards the end you get a good glimpse of how everything fits together and makes sense. I enjoyed the plot building greatly!

Aspen's perspective is engrossing, she has a dark past and an even darker future. The story is creatively cultivated and entertaining. Julian is sexy and interesting to say the least! & Merrick, I want to know more about him! Is there a love-triangle in TBE's future?! It would sure seem that way - a lot of speculating and suspense, great writing; this book was a surprisingly satisfying read. Definitely a fantastic start to a new YA series.


Though seemingly predictable you'll find everything is not what it seems. You are left with a nail biting cliffhanger that will make you immediately want the next book in the light and shadow trilogy. Another thing I liked is the use of classic literature references within the story; such as comparisons between Pride and Prejudice, and Romeo and Juliet. These literary mentions were subtle and well integrated which adds some fun elements of relatability. Overall I found myself reading the entire book in one sitting (approximately 6-7 hours) straight to finish it. That said, I think it's safe to say this was a very good read and my time was in no way wasted! Shannon Morton and Amber Lynn Natusch's writing is clever and makes for a guaranteed fun reading experience. I can't wait to grab the next installment as I'm looking forward to reading how everything will play out!

[Stacy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Aspen grew up in a convent. Her parents died when she was a baby and all she has ever known was the path to good. When she sets out on her own when she hits 18 she is naive about a lot of things but ready to experience the world. Julian, a good looking young man shows up to guide her in her new life and she jumps in head first. Everything seems to be going normally until she starts getting weird visits from strangers and finds out that she is part of a prophecy that could means she alone can damn the world.

There were a few times where I wanted to smack my forehead with my Nook when Aspen didn't see what was in front of her but with her background the way it was and the way she tries to see good before bad you really couldn't fault her way of thinking to much. I did like her personality and the way she stuck by those she cared about. I personally could tell right off the bat what boy was on the side of good and evil. Julian was outgoing, caring and an all around Mr. Nice Guy. Merrick was dark and mysterious but was always there when Aspen needed him. I liked Aspen from the beginning and Julian was ok but I didn't find myself fully connecting to his character. I liked the storyline. It was a bit slow at times but the second part of the book picked up nicely and had some great twists thrown in to make up for the slow start.

I wasn't really shocked with Aspen's ending choice and I totally saw her reasoning but MY GAWD did you have to end it there? Uggh..... cliff hanger *pout* Enough Said. Absolutely no clue how her choice will affect future events and I really couldn't tell what the guys fully thought about the choice either so I'm definitely going to be picking up book 2 so I can see what the heck is going on.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very different read, is how I would describe this.


Aspen has grown up sheltered and finds herself in the arms of a handsome rescuer. Enter a stranger and some crazy people, you are in for a wild ride. It was hard to tell from the synopsis what the story was going to be about, not until the end do you know... and boy, that was kinda weird.

I enjoyed Aspen's character, she was young and naive. What started happening to her would rock anyone's world. Of course there are a couple of hot guys, Merrick and Julian.

And the ending, oh snap. I saw that this is a trilogy, I cannot imagine how this all will play out. Since I am a HUGE fan of Ms. Amber Lynn's I will continue to read on. It is truly a differnt kind of read, that I am not used to but can see that it has potential.

[H.P. · Rating 5 out of 5]

In life we are plagued with choices whether they are good or bad; and Tempted by Evil brings that to life. Aspen’s life has been dictated from the moment she was born and now she is on a down roll spiral to madness. She can’t comprehend her life anymore and is consumed of not knowing what is real or not. The characters are complex just like we are and you just don’t know who is a friend or foe. Her love interests make you want to be Aspen and be completely spellbound but the truth is, she can’t even trust her own heart. It has to be said that this book would ultimately have you on the edge of your seat and you simply just don’t know what will happen next. I read the book in 5 hours because I couldn’t put it down and I am still breathless with the ending. I am sold on this series and can’t wait for the next installment. This book was Sparring Sister approved! ~Kismet

[Doreen · Rating 1 out of 5]

a very forgettable book. the plot was only revealed at the end of the book. i guessed this was to make the story into trilogy. but i don't think i will continue to read it. 70% into the book, was about a girl fresh out from convent and directly got herself into a relationship. huh... and then a mysterious guy showed up now and then... huh.... then left 30% to get into the main plot... only to find out aspen (what kind of name is this?) is a product of an angel and a demon and she will be the one to determine the fate of the world... so the best solution that she came up with was to end her life... please, go ahead.

[Tara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very good character and plot buildup. At over half way through I was on the edge of my seat.

The whole prophecy thing is slight confusing at first but it pulls together real nicely and plays well into the cliff hanger of an ending! NEVER saw that one coming. Definitely one of the better 'to be continued'.

[Alexis Green · Rating 2 out of 5]

I read the cage series and loved it. so I decided to try the first book of the Light and Shadow trilogy. I honestly have to say I'm disappointed. The plot of the story is random. she goes from sitting outside a cafe to having a job and a boyfriend in 5 seconds to hearing voices and then stabbing the old nun from the convent. um what? I wont be reading the remaining two books.

[Kali Stark · Rating 4 out of 5]

Personally I really enjoyed this book. I really enjoyed the pace of the book it wasn't super slow but it still took its time. I really like the characters and their vastly different personalities. Although, I do wish we could have seen more of Alexia. I think Shannon Morton did a great job with this book. I absolutely fell in love with Julian and Merrick.

[Tara · Rating 3 out of 5]

First let me say this is definitely on my list of favorite covers! Is that because she has red hair? Probably. But that’s the best part about all of this being subjective, I can love this cover just because she’s a redhead!

But why does the redhead have to be potentially crazy?!? :)

“My redheaded temper has gotten me into trouble yet again.” – I know how she feels, mine is always getting me into trouble too!

I made a list of authors attending the Boston Author Event whose books I hadn’t read yet. When I looked at the list of books and realized two of them wrote this book, it was a no brainer. I love a good paranormal story, the main character was a redhead and I hit two authors in one read, win-win-win!

I really wanted to love this book. And it definitely had the potential. Good vs. Evil, humanity to potentially save or find out you’re really just not all there upstairs. Sounds exciting…

I loved the idea of this story… Aspen, a girl who is orphaned as a baby, and raised by nuns. Julian, the cute guy that wants to help take care of her when, at 18 she has nowhere to go - who has a seemingly amazing family except his overprotective sister. And then Merrick, a mysterious, sexy guy who shows up at a lot of the same places she goes, and who you can’t quite get a handle on through most of the book. Love triangle perhaps?

In addition to the underlying potential love triangle, there are all these strange messages that Aspen seems to get throughout the story. Talking about the end of humanity and evil overtaking good. They kept me interested to see what was going to happen.

For most of the story I read it thinking, this is okay, I’m not falling head over heels like I’d hoped to, but I like it enough to keep reading. I knew the other two books of the trilogy hadn’t been written/released yet but I wasn’t too upset about it thinking I wasn’t really reading as voraciously as I have other books and I could wait if I decided to continue at all. It’s not that it’s a bad story, it just felt a little flat to me at times.

That was until I got to the very last chapter of this book. I’m not going to pretend like I couldn’t see the writing on the wall and figure out what was going on previously, because it was fairly obvious to me (with one exception), but it’s this very last chapter, hell it may even be the very last sentence that hooked me and will get me to read the next book.

I’m looking forward to seeing if the momentum built in the last chapter of this book will spill over into the next book. I can definitely say for book 2, I’m in! Bring on the crazy redhead…oh, well, the other crazy redhead!

[Jilly · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm a fan of Amber Lynn Natusch but Shannon Morton is relatively new to me and the writing world. I love Natusch Caged Series so I was very intrigued by the prospect of a new series of her to love. And being such a fan I plan to read all I can that she writes. Hopefully this series is no exception.

I have to say I'm not the fence. I did enjoy the book and it definitely had Natusch's writing style which seems to be that you are as "in the dark" as her character. Having said this, the book is by no means boring. It is an captivating story that leaves you guessing at every turn. I can also see the differences in the writing which I assume are Morton's influences and seem to mesh very well with Natusch.

My only real issue is the Shadow or the Dark of this book. I've read many good and evil books in my wanderings but at times the idea of the evil in the book is a little hard for me to want to read about simply because it is evil.

The characters as always aren't don't feel completely fleshed out but at the same time you feel like you have a clear grasp on who they are. I did like Aspen even though at times I wanted to smack her upside the head. I felt she was a little too vulnerable but I suppose her upbringing would make that possible.

Then there are the men. Julian and Merrick. I don't want to say too much because really you have to read it to know more. But I will say that right off the back I liked one and not the other. And I did enjoy that it seemed to clearly mark one good and one evil. Can you guess which one?

This book really does push the scales for me but likely not for others. And as is too often the case with Natusch's books this one ends with a cliffhanger so whether or not I continue the series really comes down to what happens in the next book.

I think that actually means I plan to continue and while I can't decide whether or not I love the series the book was enjoyable and well done. I think Morton couldn't have choosen a better co-author than Natusch because together they produced a book worth reading.

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

This will be the 2nd book by Amber Lynn Natusch that I am reviewing. However, she wrote it along with Shannon Morton so it has an added voice to it. This story is about a young girl named Aspen, who was orphaned and raised by nuns in a convent. She turns 18 and decides to venture out on her own. She has no one and virtually nothing, until she meets Julian. He takes her under his wing and offers her a place to stay as well as a job at his parents cafe. Then things start getting weird. Strangers come up to her and start spouting about the end of the world. She has dreams about her dead parents. She also meets a strange guy named Merrick who seems to show up all the time, almost as if he is stalking her. But, does Merrick have the answers to what is happening to her? What about Julian? Is he someone that she can trust or is he working with the forces that are trying to make her think she's lost her mind? This story is left on a cliffhanger so we will have to wait for the next book Tried by Fire to know the answers to those questions.

This is a really good story and it is really well written. It is labeled as YA, but I think anyone any age will enjoy this book. It took a little while for me to get into it, but once the messages & creepy people got weirder and Merrick became involved more in the story, I got really hooked. Because you don't know what is happening in the story until close to the end, it is very gripping. Plus, the writing style is such that it sucks you in and you find yourself reading and saying "I'm going to go to sleep as soon as I finish this chapter." And then the chapter ends and you go "Well, maybe 1 more." And then you get to the end of that chapter and the cycle just keeps going! I really cannot wait for the 2nd book to find out what is going to happen to Aspen, Julian and Merrick. I'm assuming the world does not end because there is a 3rd book, but knowing how these two ladies write, book 2 could be a total cliffhanger on that point. I will be impatiently waiting the release of Tried by Fire!!

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. When she describes the library it reminds me of my local library. Brought me back to my childhood/teen years of how the library was set up. A part of the book kinda reminded me of the Twilight Series in a way of finding out who Aspen really is. I felt really sad for Aspen and all she had been through. I really felt I was her. When you read Tempted By Evil it puts you so into the book that you can't help but be part of the book and feel the emotions Aspen had gone through. This book was so hard to put down. Actually I couldn't put it down I stayed up all night and read it. Amber Lynn Natusch and Shannon Morton did an excellent job writing this and I can not wait for the other books in the series to be release. I highly recommend this book.

[Franjessca · Rating 3 out of 5]

Full Review posted on Book Lovin' Mamas

I give the beginning and the middle of the book three stars...but the end four stars, which is the reason why my review is 3.5 stars for the total.  I am planning on reading the next book because Shannon and Amber had me in shock after Aspen chose her path.
I would have chosen the other side...Ahh!
Aspen has her reasons, I guess.
I recommend this book to readers who love the YA paranormal genre.  If you are a fan of Amber's Caged Series, you'll want to check out this new trilogy from her and Shannon.

I was provided a complimentary copy of "Tempted by Evil" for the blog tour in exchange for an honest review.

[Sallie Griffin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't know what's up with all the negative reviews but this book deserves more than five stars. It a beautifully written story by Shannon Morton and Amber L. that factors in religion without over doing it or using it in a boring way. There's also mystery,romance, suspense, intrigue and originality. I'm positive that people will love it. Shannon Morton and Amber L. was able to incorporate emotion in this book like no other. You feel what they feel on a level that is indescribable. The only flaws you might have is the choices that are made. But other wise a terrific story to read! :-)

[Marsha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tempted by Evil by Shannon Morton and Amber Lynn Natusch is nothing short of WOW. Completely unexpected, I really enjoyed the surprise. This book is an apocalypse of epic proportions, emphasising that we must make our choices. Aspen makes her based on very few facts, that only come to light in the ending. These characters are strongly written within an expertly finessed story line. I am thrilled with the direction it is taking and am happily anticipating the rest of the series. What a cliffhanger of all cliffhangers!

[Carol Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

thoroughly enjoyed this book , brought up by nuns Aspen has had a sheltered life & at the age of 18 is on the streets trying to survive . A meeting with Julian brings her a new job , new home & possibly new relationship , only cloud on her horizon is random people quoting an unknown prophecy to her also Merrick makes an appearance & tells her to trust herself & not others .A good story with plenty of twists& revelations , trying to guess who is good or bad will keep on your toes , can't wait for the next instalment .

[Kara Byers · Rating 2 out of 5]

Very slow......

I really wanted to like this book, I love the Caged series, but reading it felt like pulling teeth. I realized, after having my kindles text to speech program read for me while driving, that the writing matched the monotone reader on my kindle. The last few chapters were interesting, but the ending left me feeling less than impressed.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was fun! Left me all "What the ..." , and with way too many questions to wait a year!! Aspen was just starting to show a few character qualities at the end, so I hope she continues to develop. Overall, fun read with a great dark tone and mysterious characters!

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book started off really slow for me. It was hard to finish. I would say that it became more interested when it was close to done and left off in a little bit of a cliffhanger making you wonder what happens next..I will be reading the next book to find out

[Lindsay · Rating 3 out of 5]

Liked story and concept, slower to start from what I am expected from this Author, but from the ending and how it was left off I think that safe to say that it will be a great next installment. I will definitely put it on my to read list.

[Haley · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this book, it started off really promising, then lost my interest for awhile then BAM the ending was awesome. It's been awhile since this book came out, so hopefully book 2 comes out soon. Will be continuing this series (: Full review soon.

[Runningrabbit · Rating 1 out of 5]

I confess to picking this novel for it's cover. I can't tell you enough how i paid for that mortal sin.

i tried to stick it out to no avail.

Immature , wooden, amateur , cliched .

I could go on , but why bother?

Totally tragic .

[Christie S · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Christie Stars!

Not sure when the 2nd book will be out, but I need answers! :)

[Hope · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a story. I couldn't see where it was going but I was hanging on and what an ending! Looking froward to the next!

[lynn williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great

Great book kept me waiting to read it each day. Going to read the next book now. Would tell everybody to read this

[Scooper Speaks]

Don't know what I was expecting, but this didn't do it for me.