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The Kihn #1

Sweetwater

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They say you can never go home again that what we remember, is just that—a memory. Well, I’m on my way home, and I’m eager to test that theory. Little do I know that what awaits me will change my life forever.

Sofie Reece is returning to Sweetwater, a sleepy little town nestled in the Ozarks to discover evil waiting for her.

As supernatural beings, both good and evil, arrive in town, so does Lucas Santiago. Sofie senses a danger in Lucas but finds herself powerfully attracted to him. Though intimidated by his sexual appeal and power, she cannot help but fall for Lucas.

As both the danger and their passion intensify, Sofie is unaware that Lucas has a dark secret – a secret that will blow her world apart…

This book is intended for mature audiences. It contains sexually explicit content that some readers may find objectionable.

446 pages, Paperback

First published September 20, 2013

17 people are currently reading
426 people want to read

About the author

Rivi Jacks

4 books156 followers
Book-lover and author of the new fantasy romance SWEETWATER: THE KIHN.
I live in the Ozarks of southern Missouri with my husband and critters, and I’m currently writing book two of the Sweet series.

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5 stars
91 (57%)
4 stars
36 (22%)
3 stars
22 (13%)
2 stars
6 (3%)
1 star
4 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
Profile Image for T.E. Ridener.
Author 37 books126 followers
May 2, 2014
So I'm trying to figure out what I want to say, because I DO think this was a great read. It's longer than what I am used to reading, but my goodness, it was worth it. I can't say I've ever read anything quite like it, although you do see the usual paranormal characters we all love to read about. <3 Werewolves, vampires, witches, and so much more are involved with this story, and I really, really enjoyed it.

Sofie Reece returns home after her mother passes away. It's made clear from the beginning that her parents never wanted her. First-they didn't want a baby. Second-if they got one, they wanted a boy. What crappy parents, eh? Anyway, so Sofie goes back home to Sweetwater and I just have to say, I adore her entire family.

What I LOVED MOST about this book was the small southern town feel. Being a small town country girl myself, I enjoyed that immensely. Most of the sayings found in this book, I have heard my entire life. Kudos to Rivi for that! :)

The Kihn is not something I'm familiar with, but they're the enemy Sweetwater fights against, and enter Lucas Santiago and the 'hunters'. There were A LOT of twists I didn't see coming, and ugh. I dislike Nick. Oh well. I also despise Bobbi and Theresa, because these are women you will actually meet in real life. These are women that exist and God..I just hate them so much.

Anyway, the beginning is a little slow, but I promise it picks up. I really love Rivi Jacks' brain and I can't thank her enough for this story. I'm not always okay with Lucas' preferences and how he tries to make Sofie 'obey', but I must admit the man oozes with sex appeal and I totally understood everything by the last page. My favorite character was probably Taylor, and I called his true nature only a few pages into his introduction. All of the characters were very likable, but I just liked Taylor the most.

It's a fantastic story, done a little differently from everything else. I think it was very unique and I am anxiously awaiting book 2. I usually don't read first person POV books, but I had no trouble keeping up with Sofie and the craziness that soon follows after she returns home. I give it 5 of 5 stars.
5 reviews
December 23, 2013
Let me start by saying I love this book! It is one of those story's that has you thinking about it long after you have finished reading it.

Sofie Reece returns home to find that an old race of monster, the Kihn, have come to her community to await the opening of a "gate" to the realm of Kava. Hot on the trail of the Kihn is a host of supernatural beings. Legend has it that if the Kihn reach Kava, they will be restored to their former glory of old. Legend also has it that if they succeed, life will never be the same for supernatural or human.

I really liked the different supernatural in this book. I was particularly interested in the concept of the reborn Nick, even though he is an ass in the story, the idea of his living one life time after the other was something new and interesting to me. And Harvey--I laughed right along with Sofie on that one. I just know the author was referring to the movie about a giant rabbit that no one else could see but the star of the movie.

The character of Sophie is strong and feisty, though she has her moments of having to deal with her fear of abandonment and her deep need to belong. She also has a strong need to protect the ones she loves, landing her in a couple of dangerous situations.

There are 439 pages in this book and it wasn't until page 115 that the sexy charmer, Lucas Santiago comes into Sofie's life. But let me tell you Lucas was well worth the wait, he is seriously hot! And their love story is so good and steam worthy. I loved the way Sofie was afraid to let herself fall for him, fighting her attraction while Lucas was just as determined that she was going to belong to him. And the sex scenes are hot! They don't immediately fall into bed, which truly built the anticipation for me, but when they do...Yowza!

This book is fast paced, which I loved, moving right along in its tale. I enjoyed the host of characters the author weaves into her book, pulling me right in to the realism of her story. I believe the author wanted to show what life is like in a small country town and she succeeds, as I fell in love with more than one character of the book. I really like Jacks style of writing that lets you see what she writes.

There's so much in this book, humor, suspense, love, hot sex, and a creepy night at a farm of some seriously disturbed "hillbillies". I loved Sweetwater and can't wait for the second book to come out. I highly recommend it and give 5 stars to a very enjoyable read. For a debut novel I say well done Ms. Jacks
808 reviews13 followers
June 22, 2018
Slow, dull

This book, crammed with the unnecessary detail and trivial dialog just moves too slowly for my taste. It’s dull and very easy to put down.
Profile Image for Caryn.
2,394 reviews3 followers
December 20, 2019
One of the most annoying female characters EVER. Sofie is immature, petulant and stupid. Lucas, on the other hand, is yummy but must be brain dead to want such a vapid girl. Actually I think all of the men were hot but....crazy for Sofie. Duh. If not for all of the other characters I would give this one or two stars only. Plus it was too wordy.
Profile Image for Lyndsey Gollogly.
1,365 reviews5 followers
July 11, 2020
I loved it!! It was so addictive to read and unlike what I’ve read before. The supernatural element is not always forefront in the story which I found I liked. The different relationships in this book are just brilliant from the best friends and family to the romantic relationships. I’m so looking forward to the next book.
Profile Image for Sadie Forsythe.
Author 1 book287 followers
dnf
May 3, 2015
DNF 21%

Reasons I couldn't finish this book:

1) It's in first person present tense. I didn't know this before reading it. The blurb isn't in first person. I wouldn't have picked the book up if I'd known, as I basically think first person present tense is anathema to reading enjoyment. I can never get over the question of why the character is narrating their everyday life. With past tense I can at least assume the character knows something about the situation is worth relating, as they've already lived through it all. With 3rd person, even present tense, I can assume the external narrator knows something the character doesn't. But with first person present tense I always, always wonder, "Why are they telling me this?" Especially when the narration includes things like, "I decide to leave my hair down, but I use styling gel and scrunch it while I blow-dry with a diffuser. It turns out nice." (Seriously, I just don't care and it's boring...which can be considered number two on this list of why I'm not finishing this book.)

2) I made it 21%, that's roughly a 100 pages and the vast majority of the book has been meeting family, eating, socialising, shopping, etc. It's B.O.R.I.N.G.. I'm bored.

3) Hello Gary Stu, meet Mary Sue and her extended Mary Sue family. Seriously, one Mary Sue/Gary Stu is bad enough. This book has a dozen of them.

4) The writing is stiff, but it has one habit that makes me gnash my teeth. Dialogue uses names far too often to feel natural. Come on, you don't really include someones name every-time you address them. It breaks the flow of a discussion.

5) Speaking of breaking a flow, the descriptions of people and places are very detailed and there are so many people and places that it's constantly breaking the reading flow.

6) Even at 20% I can already see a love triangle in the future, as Sofie is falling for a guy and he's not the one the blurb talks about. I'm not a fan of the love triangle.

7) Sofie is supposed to be 21 and the rest of the family older (though I don't know their ages and I wish I did), but the book reads like YA--a genre I'm currently avoiding.

8) The constant way Sofie has to fight with the men to be included. That alone annoys me, but the fact that she claims the fact that THEY taught her to be self-sufficient and independent as the reason she shouldn't be left home while they fight to protect her and the women is just as annoying. It suggests that this is an aberration and normal women can't fight or defend themselves and those they love.

9) I promised myself I'd read 25% before I gave up. I was struggling, but persevering. But when she FAINTED in fear at 21% I threw in the towel! (Especially considering #7)
5 reviews
December 23, 2013
Let me start by saying I love this book! It is one of those story's that has you thinking about it long after you have finished reading it.

Sofie Reece returns home to find that an old race of monster, the Kihn, have come to her community to await the opening of a "gate" to the realm of Kava. Hot on the trail of the Kihn is a host of supernatural beings. Legend has it that if the Kihn reach Kava, they will be restored to their former glory of old. Legend also has it that if they succeed, life will never be the same for supernatural or human.

I really liked the different supernatural in this book. I was particularly interested in the concept of the reborn Nick, even though he is an ass in the story, the idea of his living one life time after the other was something new and interesting to me. And Harvey--I laughed right along with Sofie on that one. I just know the author was referring to the movie about a giant rabbit that no one else could see but the star of the movie.

The character of Sophie is strong and feisty, though she has her moments of having to deal with her fear of abandonment and her deep need to belong. She also has a strong need to protect the ones she loves, landing her in a couple of dangerous situations.

There are 439 pages in this book and it wasn't until page 115 that the sexy charmer, Lucas Santiago comes into Sofie's life. But let me tell you Lucas was well worth the wait, he is seriously hot! And their love story is so good and steam worthy. I loved the way Sofie was afraid to let herself fall for him, fighting her attraction while Lucas was just as determined that she was going to belong to him. And the sex scenes are hot! They don't immediately fall into bed, which truly built the anticipation for me, but when they do...Yowza!

This book is fast paced, which I loved, moving right along in its tale. I enjoyed the host of characters the author weaves into her book, pulling me right in to the realism of her story. I believe the author wanted to show what life is like in a small country town and she succeeds, as I fell in love with more than one character of the book. I really like Jacks style of writing that lets you see what she writes.

There's so much in this book, humor, suspense, love, hot sex, and a creepy night at a farm of some seriously disturbed "hillbillies". I loved Sweetwater and can't wait for the second book to come out. I highly recommend it and give 5 stars to a very enjoyable read. For a debut novel I say well done Ms. Jacks!

Profile Image for Denise.
4,119 reviews12 followers
December 22, 2014
I must say up front that I had started this novel several months ago not getting to far into it, but others got in the way and somehow until recently did not pick it up again until now. So I started it over and that was all she wrote. I was entranced and was taken away to Sweetwater by the characters that came alive right before my eyes. Sofie has gone back home and welcomed back with open arms. Having been basically for the most part raised by other family members other than her ma and dad this is home to her. This time though things are a little different and they are all a little older with strange events happening. Friends and family are gathered and you are swept away from there. It is revealed also what and who are in Sweetwater and what needs to be done. You also find out just how special Sofie is also. This novel contains some intriguing and refreshing storylines that keep you gobbling this up. She also has some spunk and is a very likable character along with her relatives. Ah to my delight also is romance included in this novel. Thank goodness she is not fast and loose either, it would not fit how she is written. Even though there is one who likes her and she dates him, I the reader am drawn to Lucas when and the way he is introduced has a bit of humor. Him and his men are there to help with the Kihn and he does have quite the bunch with him. Her world is fast being revealed as not what is has seemed and lots of elements and how special some people are come into play. No draggy parts in this novel for sure. When the danger is present it is fast and hard but the way it is handled is even more exciting. To be sure this is one that once you have started it and I do mean really started it you will not be let go of until the last page. Also love the romance that builds between Sofie and her reaction at times gives you chuckles but the heat between her and Lucas is scorching. Now though it took a little bit for me to want to read something else when finished because I so wanted more from this author, she is that addictive.
Profile Image for DebbieReadsBooks.
2,764 reviews50 followers
March 16, 2018
Verified purchase December 2013

Now, I will be honest here, right up front, I only bought this book, because the author was giving away two additional books (from other authors) and it was a good deal.

Sofie returns to her childhood home, after the death of her parents. Parents who made it clear she was never wanted. Things are afoot in Sweetwater, and no one is quite sure what.

Lucas and his Hunters arrive to explain what is going on and how they are going to deal with it.

IT are the Kihn. while it isn't explained fully WHAT they are, they do get up to no good, what with a Gateway opening soon, near to Sweetwater. Sofie has knowledge of the Kihn, she has been seeing them in her dreams for years.

Enter a HUGE cast of supporting actors, witches, Wiccan, werewolves, guardian angels that only the Wiccan can see, various aunts, uncles, cousins and friends!!

The tale took a while to get going, Lucas and Sofie don't meet till almost half way through, and the blur comes with and explicit warning, which again, doesn't arrive til past half way, BUT its a good tale. Lots of interaction between all the characters, with more and MORE added along the way (this huge cast was one of the reasons it got 4 stars instead of 5, the other, the long warm up) Its a different tale and I enjoyed it. There is another planned and it will be purchased when its released, as this one ends on a bit of a cliff hanger!

I particularly liked the way Jacks throws things at you, just like that, "its the only way I know to keep them away, you know" made me go OHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH what are "they"??? and how little hints get dropped along they way as to WHAT the supernatural people are. While its fairly obvious (after a time) what Lucas is, Sofie clicks in the last 3 lines of the book!

A different read, a good read, and I would recommend it!

And! It's present tense!

4 solid stars

Profile Image for Amy Freese.
81 reviews15 followers
February 2, 2015
I read this book in kindle format. Other than the info the blurb gives, I had no idea what to expect. That is sometimes the fun of reading new authors. Oh my goodness, what a story this one is!

I will admit that it did take me a bit to adjust to the writing style used. Once that became easier I felt myself becoming engrossed in the tale. I feel like I came to know Sophie Reece very well, just like a sister or a close cousin. Her friend Emma Rae is a riot, everyone needs a pal like her! I found the Walker family to be very believable, it was fun getting to know them all. I could envision the environment, I felt their fears. It was refreshing to see an author give true 'courting' experiences to the leading lady! That Sophie is given time to search herself and know what she is looking for. Glad that she has standards for herself. When she encounters Lucas, I was thrilled for her! I kept thinking "Girl...what are you waiting for? Quit stalling!" I have never paid much attention when the bloggers ask 'Who is your fav book boyfriend?', now my answer would be Lucas Santiago!

Mostly what I appreciated as I read this, was that I constantly NEEDED to know more. This is a very involved story-line, there is just so much going on! Just the supernatural beings that are introduced, the WAY they are brought in to the tale...none of it is simple. I am grateful that it took time to get some of the answers, for the everyday details that helped create a more tangible world. It became a very...personal experience. This is in NO WAY a "wham-bam-thank you-ma'am" sort of book. One might say this book is one kick-butt fore-play session, with the main event still waiting behind the curtain.

That said, Rivi Jacks...I am eagerly waiting for book 2, like with the jitters and fidgety fingers... :)
Profile Image for Samaris Creech.
376 reviews7 followers
May 8, 2014
I received a gift copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Sophia has been away from home for a few years she has led a rather different life. Her parents were never really parents and a tragedy takes her way from the only home she has known for a few years. Upon her return to her home she finds out that many things have changed. Sophia has always had these terrible nightmares of things that go bump in the night how will she deal with the fact that they are real? How will she deal with the fact that everyone in her family seems to know things about what is going on but keeping secrets from her? Lucas has never met anyone like Sophia and is hell bent on having her for his own. Sophia and Lucas and the whole town of Sweetwater come together to try and stop a supernatural force that is trying to do some very bad things. Lucas and Sophia’s relationship is very entreating to watch unfold and when it finally takes off watch out! This was a wonderful read I truly enjoyed it and cannot wait for the next book.
Profile Image for Caro.
1,573 reviews
September 8, 2017
A re-read as I heard book 2 is coming soon!

I couldn't believe that I only stared this book (5 though!) but didn't leave a review. Time to remedy that!

I remember reading this book back in late 2013 and it stuck with me for those 4 years. I also admit to stalking the author over that time too!!!

This tale follows Sofie, back in the bosom of her extended family after the death of her parents. And then it starts......

Things I love about this book (and have stayed with me):

Emma Rae (her mouth!),
The large, close knit family and how they interact,
The town they live in,
Lucas,
The homely charm of a small town,
Taylor,
The suspense,
Lucas,
The intrigue,
The hint of lust! (and the bloody suspense of it!),
The mystery, what supes are they?!,
Lucas,
The secrets,
The edge of seatness <---- thats a word, right?!,
And finally, Lucas!

This has made my top (re)read again so far this year. Everyone needs to read this book. I'll scream it from the rooftops!  EVERYONE NEEDS TO READ THIS BOOK!
Profile Image for Emily.
286 reviews8 followers
September 3, 2016
The beginning was extremely slow. It was hard to stay interested with so many characters introduced at once. Throughout the book though having that many are what helps make Sweetwater so great. Sophie of course is my favorite. She doesn't put up with anyone's shit but is still very likable and I love heroines like that. Once Lucas arrived in town and I couldn't put the book down. Even though it took forever for their relationship to progress, the scenes between Sophie and Lucas were HOT. I LOVE books with Alphas and that's diffidently what Lucas is.

I can't wait to read Sweetdreams!!!!!!!
Profile Image for Brandi.
686 reviews35 followers
February 14, 2014
I have mixed feelings on this book. On one hand, there are too many characters, many of who are not that relevant to the story (at this point, as the story may continue in future installments, I’m not sure, but the ending does leave that option), which can be a bit confusing at times. On the other hand, it was an interesting and unique read. It was well-written and kept my interest.
Sofie Reece is more likable than many female leads. Lucas Santiago is also an interesting character, and the plot really seems to ‘start rolling’ upon his arrival. Overall, I would give the book a 4.5 (4 for the story and 5 for the author’s writing style). It can be quite explicit at times, so I would urge readers that are easily offended to pass up on this book. I would purchase a sequel if one were to come out, as I found the story engaging and the characters likable for the most part.
Profile Image for BriBri.
26 reviews1 follower
November 28, 2013
Good plot, but I agree that there are way too many characters. Hard to keep track of them all. Some felt a little pointless.
The main character Sofie, was likable in the beginning. She was mature and level headed. That all started to disintegrate when she hooked up with Lucas. She became childish and petty. It was pretty irritating.
The storyline is intriguing, I just wish there had been more action and acting then a lot of the relationship drama. I don't understand the characters of Nick, Bobbi, and Teresa. They are dead weight and just slow it down.
Yet I am looking forward to the next book. Give it a read.
Profile Image for Lee.
Author 12 books3 followers
April 29, 2014
Sweetwater: The Kihn is a book that I couldn't put down. Let me tell you! The Characters are nicely detailed, and give this story a beautiful image of the men. Which they are all HOT! The twists and turns are wonderfully done, and keeps you wanting to see what happens next. Ms. Jacks keeps the level of 'What'? going throughout the book, from beginning to end. I give this book a 3 1/2 stars due to the way the book ends. The ending is not my cup of tea, but this is a personal feeling and not towards Ms. Jacks. But if you really like a mix of Paranormal, you have it here. If you like to be kept on the edge, you have it here!
Profile Image for Linda.
36 reviews3 followers
June 8, 2014
I absolutely loved this story.Extremely intriguing..full of mystery and steamy scenes.Sofie moves back home after 2 yrs.Only to have the town she adores in turmoil. With the help of family and friends,they band together to put a stop to these issues. But as time moves forward Sofie comes to realize that supernatural beings are real.Help comes to their aide at several different angles..One is the hot irresistable badass Lucas Santiago.As their battle continues, things heat up between Sofie and Lucas..Rivi Jacks defintely kept me guessing...as questions got answered,many more popped up.This story sucked me in immediately. I anxiously look forward to book 2!!!
Profile Image for Sandy Wolters.
Author 9 books110 followers
September 1, 2015
Here’s the deal. I don’t like cliffhangers. I don’t read them unless I have the complete series on my Kindle. I don’t like it when the author doesn’t let the reader know in the blurb that it is a cliffhanger. It’s bad enough when a book is 200 pages long and you get to the end only to find there is no end, but when you devote so many hours reading a book that is 456 pages long and it just ends in the middle of a scene with no conclusion on any level, I’m not a happy camper.

Because this book is so long, I feel like I’m vested in it and now I’m expected to pick up another book to find out what happens. Not a happy camper at all.
Profile Image for Columbia Moore.
3 reviews
December 1, 2013
I purchased this book based from reading an exerpt. I could not put it down! As stated, it IS explicit, but it took a build up to explicit. Sophie and Lucas' story is just getting started. Unlike the others, I think the extra characters are key since the story was left "open". It leaves the author open to take different avenues in a sequel. I was so excited to learn there will be a second part to the story! I would like to also get this as paperback if possible. I certainly want to be first in line for the second book! Five stars from me!
Profile Image for Claire Ingram.
Author 2 books16 followers
May 20, 2015
This book is amazing, and by far the best book I've read all year, if the saga continues as it has I think this could easily be the best book series I've ever read (and I've read Harry Potter and 50 shades)
The characters are fantastic the story line draws you in and throws you on a rollercoaster of emotions, leaving you reeling angry and shocked oh and probably a little breathless ... In both a bad (as in omg no freaking way) and a very very good way because the steamy scenes are hot and believable
Profile Image for Mindy Chase-selder.
803 reviews13 followers
September 8, 2014
Loved it! Great paranormal read!
Sofie Reese returns home from being away for two years to find out that things are not and will never be the same in Sweetwater. She quickly learns that all the fairy tales and the things that go bump in the night are very real. And are in her back yard. Could not put this one down and definitely can't wait for book 2 !!
Profile Image for Christy.
66 reviews2 followers
May 12, 2015
A supernatural erotic thriller with all the passion and heat a reader could ask for. The characters are strong, the storytelling fantastic...I could not put this book down! I absolutely love Lucas and Sofie, their connection raw and sensual. I did not want this story to end. Looking forward to the next read in this series!
60 reviews
September 27, 2015
I really enjoyed this read. Paranormal romance is not my cup of tea however, I was drawn in by the characters, those men were hot! There were twists and turns through out the story. This is the first book I have read by Ms Jacks and I can't wait to read more. I would definitely recommend this to my friends.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Malinda McConnell.
162 reviews2 followers
December 17, 2013
Holy Smokes was this book good! A friend read it and lent it to me and I'm so glad she did. Sweetwater has the recipe for a great book. There's action, romance, drama, characters you love and hate. I can't wait for the next book, so if you're a fan of paranormal reads, pick-up Sweetwater.
Profile Image for Roimata Paoo.
96 reviews
August 15, 2014
well that took longer than what im used to. A really good read, characters are well detailed and lovable or despicable depending on who it is. I am left to wonder why Nick and Sophie were not edited out. Looking forward to book two, when will this be out?
Profile Image for Luvtoread45.
194 reviews4 followers
September 11, 2014
This book was amazing! Had me on the edge of my seat the whole time! Talk about a lot of hot alpha males in a book,well this one has plenty! A sexy, hot, suspenseful love story! Can't wait to read the next one!
Profile Image for Elayne.
382 reviews
September 20, 2014
I enjoyed this book to a certain extent. There were a lot of names to remember and I found it to be a bit too long drawn out. I will probably read the next one in the series, but maybe when I'm in between series' and looking for a filler!
Profile Image for Dena.
1,232 reviews13 followers
February 17, 2015
The beginning starts off slow, then it gets good, and towards the end it gets to be too much with the sexual encounters. Overall it's not bad, but it's either to dry in the beginning and too much at the end....CLIFFHANGER!
Profile Image for Amber Daniels.
Author 3 books28 followers
October 16, 2015
Just enough romance for romance readers and just enough mystery for the mysterious and the female lead is full of fire and attitude enough to keep everyone entertained. Rivi Jacks's books are great and I am past ready for the next one
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews

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