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Shifted #1
Shifted
There’s a carnival in Layol filled with magic. It travels every night with some of the worst creatures imaginable. Ever since the war started these creatures have been hunted for crimes they didn’t commit. Owen wants to forget that things will never be as they were before the war. He’s pretty skilled at finding things to distract him or finding someone for that matter. It was easy enough.
Then Asher and Shara had to show up and mess everything up. Just when he thought he was close to getting Asher from his mind and going back to being the careless Casanova they all took him for, Shara slams into his life running from something. He had chosen an easy, vapid life. He wasn’t supposed to want, especially not both of them. If life taught him anything, you can’t always have what you want, and life has always forced him to choose. With darkness wrapping the carnival and hunters around every corner, his choices might very well cost him his life or theirs.
Then Asher and Shara had to show up and mess everything up. Just when he thought he was close to getting Asher from his mind and going back to being the careless Casanova they all took him for, Shara slams into his life running from something. He had chosen an easy, vapid life. He wasn’t supposed to want, especially not both of them. If life taught him anything, you can’t always have what you want, and life has always forced him to choose. With darkness wrapping the carnival and hunters around every corner, his choices might very well cost him his life or theirs.
311 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 18, 2024
12 people are currently reading
258 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 149 reviews
May 12, 2024
Brilliant! I’m so in awe 😍
Owen's story with Asher and Shara was truly captivating! Exploring these characters outside of the Twisted Fates Series was a delight – a romantasy I cherish very much!
SHIFTED is beautifully crafted. I enjoyed exploring the characters' backgrounds, their journeys, how they meet, and their tales of love (and heartbreak.) The conclusion left me yearning for more!
If you haven't yet delved into the Twisted Fates series, I highly recommend starting before SHIFTED is released, as it will enrich your experience of this story!
Reuniting with Alice and Soran—my favorite vampire, for a brief moment made my heart beat with excitement!
I truly enjoy these characters and everything they have to share with us! So make sure to get your tickets to the Great Bazaar when SHIFTED releases June 18th!!
Owen's story with Asher and Shara was truly captivating! Exploring these characters outside of the Twisted Fates Series was a delight – a romantasy I cherish very much!
SHIFTED is beautifully crafted. I enjoyed exploring the characters' backgrounds, their journeys, how they meet, and their tales of love (and heartbreak.) The conclusion left me yearning for more!
If you haven't yet delved into the Twisted Fates series, I highly recommend starting before SHIFTED is released, as it will enrich your experience of this story!
Reuniting with Alice and Soran—my favorite vampire, for a brief moment made my heart beat with excitement!
I truly enjoy these characters and everything they have to share with us! So make sure to get your tickets to the Great Bazaar when SHIFTED releases June 18th!!
June 19, 2024
I loved this book! The shifter romance There was a lot of spice in the beginning but I enjoyed it. I’m glad there was a backstory, I hope there will be another book!!
June 18, 2024
wow, I loved this spicy shifter romance. Started off super spicy, had some heartbreak, laughed out loud moments, and the characters were great.
I received an ARC for this
I received an ARC for this
May 2, 2024
Thank you, Danielle Cancel, for the opportunity to read this ARC!
So, the intro of how this carnaval works kinda reminded me of "The Night Circus." To be warned, there is a LOT of spice in the beginning of the book. Most of it, in my opinion, did not actually help the story. It was just there to be there. Once it gets passed it I thought the book got quite good. It just feels like there should have been more to the big event at the end of the book. It felt like it moved fast, and I wanted more about the background of what happened in the war to draw it out a bit more. Plus, our main character, Owen, reaches out to his out ahem friend in the carnival, but we only see 1 second of that outcome. I wanted to see that and how it would play out. I hope she writes more about these characters and more in-depth stories of the world.
So, the intro of how this carnaval works kinda reminded me of "The Night Circus." To be warned, there is a LOT of spice in the beginning of the book. Most of it, in my opinion, did not actually help the story. It was just there to be there. Once it gets passed it I thought the book got quite good. It just feels like there should have been more to the big event at the end of the book. It felt like it moved fast, and I wanted more about the background of what happened in the war to draw it out a bit more. Plus, our main character, Owen, reaches out to his out ahem friend in the carnival, but we only see 1 second of that outcome. I wanted to see that and how it would play out. I hope she writes more about these characters and more in-depth stories of the world.
May 17, 2024
Shifted
By Danielle Cancel
4 ⭐️ 3🌶️
Main Characters:
Owen - Shifter (Elemental)
Asher - Human
Shara - Witch (possibly Green Witch)
Stand-out lines/comments:
“So mean for something so tiny”
“Are you always like this?”
“My little creature”
“You’re safe with me “
My thoughts :
I really enjoyed Shifted! It was steamy, and a little goofy, and just the right amount of romance. This book had my emotions all over the place! Started off spicy, then broke my heart a bit, started heading into angsty territory then hit me with some spice! Had a little hiccup there with Shara but I knew Owen was gonna come through and that ending…. I need to know… what is happening?!?!?! “Come Home”, that’s how you left us!
This book was sent to me as an ARC for my honest review.
By Danielle Cancel
4 ⭐️ 3🌶️
Main Characters:
Owen - Shifter (Elemental)
Asher - Human
Shara - Witch (possibly Green Witch)
Stand-out lines/comments:
“So mean for something so tiny”
“Are you always like this?”
“My little creature”
“You’re safe with me “
My thoughts :
I really enjoyed Shifted! It was steamy, and a little goofy, and just the right amount of romance. This book had my emotions all over the place! Started off spicy, then broke my heart a bit, started heading into angsty territory then hit me with some spice! Had a little hiccup there with Shara but I knew Owen was gonna come through and that ending…. I need to know… what is happening?!?!?! “Come Home”, that’s how you left us!
This book was sent to me as an ARC for my honest review.
June 6, 2024
This is the first book in the Shifted duology, which is a sort of spin off prequel to the author’s Twisted Fates series. That said, it can be read independent of that series. Tropes include witches & shapeshifters, fated mates, second chance romance, secret identity, friends to lovers, and angst/comfort. The relationships include both MM and MF pairings (where one of the Ms is in both relationships) but not at the same time. Please check the content warnings for spicy scenes and dark themes.
The Lovely: I loved the exploration of Owen, and later, Shara’s back stories in the context of their relationships with each other, and other characters. The dark carnival setting provides the backdrop for the first half of the book but I see this as a story about relationships and how past experiences impact interactions in a relationship. The first quarter of the book is deliciously spicy, then turns angsty, then fluctuates between sweet, tension filled and emotional. So, I of course loved it (even if my heart did break).
What I Wanted More Of: I would have liked to have seen more of Owen’s story with Asher and how they became so close. I like their relationship but want to understand how they got to that point after the war.
Rating: 4/5 Stars 3/5 Flames
Recommendation: I received an advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. This book doesn’t end on a major cliffhanger but it’s not wrapped up with a bow either. I loved who we met towards the end - that was a pleasant surprise. I was also glad to see the LGBTQ+ representation in the relationships and this is a great read for June if you’re specifically looking for main character LGBTQ+ representation.
The Lovely: I loved the exploration of Owen, and later, Shara’s back stories in the context of their relationships with each other, and other characters. The dark carnival setting provides the backdrop for the first half of the book but I see this as a story about relationships and how past experiences impact interactions in a relationship. The first quarter of the book is deliciously spicy, then turns angsty, then fluctuates between sweet, tension filled and emotional. So, I of course loved it (even if my heart did break).
What I Wanted More Of: I would have liked to have seen more of Owen’s story with Asher and how they became so close. I like their relationship but want to understand how they got to that point after the war.
Rating: 4/5 Stars 3/5 Flames
Recommendation: I received an advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. This book doesn’t end on a major cliffhanger but it’s not wrapped up with a bow either. I loved who we met towards the end - that was a pleasant surprise. I was also glad to see the LGBTQ+ representation in the relationships and this is a great read for June if you’re specifically looking for main character LGBTQ+ representation.
May 24, 2024
ARC review…. Thank you Danielle for the opportunity to get my hands on this book.
❤️🔥I devoured this book!!! No spoilers!
Okay, so if you're into shifters, witches, war-torn civilizations, the circus, romance, this book is 100% for you. LGBTQ+ 🌈
It kept me interested from the very first chapter. I like the fact that it took the time throughout the book to go back and explain the history of the world that they were living in at this time, and why all the problems that they have have arisen. The main character is Owen, who is a shifter who, like all of us, has very deep insecurities about who he is, and is struggling to tell the people that he loves how much he actually feels for them. He pushes people away, and deep down inside, he wants somebody to fight for him. We continue that theme with multiple love interests, and the book leaves you on just a super juicy cliffhanger when it comes to the relationships that he's in.
The spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ hits hard in the beginning of the book, like very hard, and slowly towards the end becomes less spicy, but more romantic, which I kind of enjoyed. I see the way the character views his relationships differently, how it goes from very physical to more emotional and mental.
This book includes tropes like secret identities, friends to lovers, soulmates, why choose... and a bunch more I’m probably not listing.
Trigger Warnings:
War in a fantasy setting
Violence with magic
Death with magic
Threat of sexual assault
Prosecution/Genocide of a group of people
Thoughts of suicide
Alcoholism
Verbal abuse
I hope you guys take the time to read this book and enjoy it as much as I did!
❤️🔥I devoured this book!!! No spoilers!
Okay, so if you're into shifters, witches, war-torn civilizations, the circus, romance, this book is 100% for you. LGBTQ+ 🌈
It kept me interested from the very first chapter. I like the fact that it took the time throughout the book to go back and explain the history of the world that they were living in at this time, and why all the problems that they have have arisen. The main character is Owen, who is a shifter who, like all of us, has very deep insecurities about who he is, and is struggling to tell the people that he loves how much he actually feels for them. He pushes people away, and deep down inside, he wants somebody to fight for him. We continue that theme with multiple love interests, and the book leaves you on just a super juicy cliffhanger when it comes to the relationships that he's in.
The spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ hits hard in the beginning of the book, like very hard, and slowly towards the end becomes less spicy, but more romantic, which I kind of enjoyed. I see the way the character views his relationships differently, how it goes from very physical to more emotional and mental.
This book includes tropes like secret identities, friends to lovers, soulmates, why choose... and a bunch more I’m probably not listing.
Trigger Warnings:
War in a fantasy setting
Violence with magic
Death with magic
Threat of sexual assault
Prosecution/Genocide of a group of people
Thoughts of suicide
Alcoholism
Verbal abuse
I hope you guys take the time to read this book and enjoy it as much as I did!
May 30, 2024
ARC Review - Shifted by Danielle Cancel
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
MILD SPOILERS
Owen is a shape shifter who has a bit of an identity crisis after having to become Jasper, the ringmaster. He feels unworthy because of a fall out with Asher and the night he meets Shara changes everything!
After leaving the Great Bazaar he longs to find Shara and one day sees her walking down the street in Hawthorne.
I loved the character development in this book! I wasn’t the biggest fan of Shara for a majority of the book but really liked her towards the end!!
This is book includes shapeshifters, witches, mm/mf, a dark carnival and a love triangle. It is out June 18th!!
I absolutely cannot wait for book two!! I am so excited to read more about Owen, Shara and Asher!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
MILD SPOILERS
Owen is a shape shifter who has a bit of an identity crisis after having to become Jasper, the ringmaster. He feels unworthy because of a fall out with Asher and the night he meets Shara changes everything!
After leaving the Great Bazaar he longs to find Shara and one day sees her walking down the street in Hawthorne.
I loved the character development in this book! I wasn’t the biggest fan of Shara for a majority of the book but really liked her towards the end!!
This is book includes shapeshifters, witches, mm/mf, a dark carnival and a love triangle. It is out June 18th!!
I absolutely cannot wait for book two!! I am so excited to read more about Owen, Shara and Asher!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 31, 2024
Rating- ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice-🌶️🌶️🌶️
Some small spoilers ahead!
ARC reader here! Shifted was a great, fun read! It’s a spicy fantasy story following Owen, who is a shapeshifter scared to give his heart up fully to an individual due to some insecurities with his abilities. I loved the whole circus theme in the beginning! It was very entertaining and lively. Shara is a witch on the run.
The magic dynamic was fun and easy to follow! The ending note had me reeling for more. I’m hoping for book two to give some answers on the end of the story with Asher and Shara!! Check the trigger warnings before reading! Comes on July 18th!! Happy reading!!
Important Highlights-
“It’s like you have two hearts in one.”
“I don’t want to lose you now. All of that is real. My words and my feelings have never been a lie.”
“You’re two halves of a whole.”
“Come home.”
Tropes-
Secret identity
Love triangle
Forbidden magic
Kidnapping
Spice-🌶️🌶️🌶️
Some small spoilers ahead!
ARC reader here! Shifted was a great, fun read! It’s a spicy fantasy story following Owen, who is a shapeshifter scared to give his heart up fully to an individual due to some insecurities with his abilities. I loved the whole circus theme in the beginning! It was very entertaining and lively. Shara is a witch on the run.
The magic dynamic was fun and easy to follow! The ending note had me reeling for more. I’m hoping for book two to give some answers on the end of the story with Asher and Shara!! Check the trigger warnings before reading! Comes on July 18th!! Happy reading!!
Important Highlights-
“It’s like you have two hearts in one.”
“I don’t want to lose you now. All of that is real. My words and my feelings have never been a lie.”
“You’re two halves of a whole.”
“Come home.”
Tropes-
Secret identity
Love triangle
Forbidden magic
Kidnapping
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 6, 2024
He’d liked that she was short. She was a treat he could pocket and take with him wherever he went. But it did make it hard to track her past Gooseberry Street.
Absolutely love fantasy books with witches, werewolves and the special bonds. This story showed all that. The beginning relationships built the main characters path and pain. I wasn’t expecting the spice to happen so quick(MM) but then the story happened and I really enjoyed it. Would have liked to have more back story about the war and Shara and Owen’s past.
It ended hopefully showing there would be more and I would be really interested to continue this series.
“I don’t want them.” He said it and it was firm. “Any of them. I want you. I thought that was obvious.”
Absolutely love fantasy books with witches, werewolves and the special bonds. This story showed all that. The beginning relationships built the main characters path and pain. I wasn’t expecting the spice to happen so quick(MM) but then the story happened and I really enjoyed it. Would have liked to have more back story about the war and Shara and Owen’s past.
It ended hopefully showing there would be more and I would be really interested to continue this series.
“I don’t want them.” He said it and it was firm. “Any of them. I want you. I thought that was obvious.”
August 2, 2024
♥️ ARC Review 🖤
Spice:
🌶️🌶️🌶️
🎩 Welcome to the Great Bazarre! 🎩
Like most ARCs, I go in blind with the smallest glimpse at the synopsis of the story so I can have a clean slate.
The multiple POVs of Owen, Shara and Asher are written so beautifully that I devoured this book so quickly!
We have shifters, witches, seers and so many more of our favorites!
⭐️
I love circus freaks and this was a story of magical creatures hiding to stay safe in a circus that is constantly moving to the outside world. 🎪
If you enjoy love triangles and main characters who learn to express their feelings while falling in love, this book is for you! 🐺
Owen is in love, but with who? You’ll just have to read to find out!
⭐️
This book ended nicely and I was shocked to see Danielle is coming out with a second book that continues the love triangle story!
I highly recommend you read this book and tell me what you think!
Spice:
🌶️🌶️🌶️
🎩 Welcome to the Great Bazarre! 🎩
Like most ARCs, I go in blind with the smallest glimpse at the synopsis of the story so I can have a clean slate.
The multiple POVs of Owen, Shara and Asher are written so beautifully that I devoured this book so quickly!
We have shifters, witches, seers and so many more of our favorites!
⭐️
I love circus freaks and this was a story of magical creatures hiding to stay safe in a circus that is constantly moving to the outside world. 🎪
If you enjoy love triangles and main characters who learn to express their feelings while falling in love, this book is for you! 🐺
Owen is in love, but with who? You’ll just have to read to find out!
⭐️
This book ended nicely and I was shocked to see Danielle is coming out with a second book that continues the love triangle story!
I highly recommend you read this book and tell me what you think!
May 8, 2024
I can’t get past the fact that the first 25% of this book was just s.e.x. and NO plot movement. I wanted the thrill of the circus and the dangers and excitement that comes with magical creatures in the circus, but instead we were introduced to a guy who loves to F anyone and anything, and one of his lovers pining/whining for him to be exclusive the entire time.
June 16, 2024
“She was the living embodiment of an entire garden. The daisy that cracked through the cobblestone to breathe. A black dahlia when the fury graced her face like an elegant cloak, showing she wasn’t as delicate as everyone judged her as. An orchid that would break to the wrong touch.” 🥀
There’s a magic filled carnival in war ridden Layol that hides the creatures being hunted in the world. Every night it changes destinations, protecting those who are wanted for crimes they did not commit. Owen is a shifter, skilled at distracting himself from the life he had before the war. As he continually has to shift into the ringmaster every night, he loses himself a little more every time. When his favorite distraction Asher causes a falling out, he finds himself swept into the union. Until Shara stumbles into his life, and swept into another whirlwind. With darkness wrapping the carnival and hunters at every corner, Owen must make a choice to protect those he cares about.
Honestly I could have read like 100 more pages just about the circus lol. It gave me slight Night Circus and AHS Freakshow vibes. This book can be a standalone, but is in the same world as the Twisted Fates series (admittedly I have not read them, but after this it is HIGH on my tbr!)
Owen is a complex character, struggling with his self identity as someone that can literally be anyone. The exploration of his relationships and how they have impacted him was powerful. I loved his banter with Shara! She was so sweet throughout the entire book, and her tragic backstory and then continual perseverance was heart wrenching.
Tropes:
• dark carnival 🎪
• MM / MF
• love triangle
• forbidden magic
• hidden identity
• SPICEY 🌶️
Thank you SO much @dmcancel for the early copy of this book! 🖤
There’s a magic filled carnival in war ridden Layol that hides the creatures being hunted in the world. Every night it changes destinations, protecting those who are wanted for crimes they did not commit. Owen is a shifter, skilled at distracting himself from the life he had before the war. As he continually has to shift into the ringmaster every night, he loses himself a little more every time. When his favorite distraction Asher causes a falling out, he finds himself swept into the union. Until Shara stumbles into his life, and swept into another whirlwind. With darkness wrapping the carnival and hunters at every corner, Owen must make a choice to protect those he cares about.
Honestly I could have read like 100 more pages just about the circus lol. It gave me slight Night Circus and AHS Freakshow vibes. This book can be a standalone, but is in the same world as the Twisted Fates series (admittedly I have not read them, but after this it is HIGH on my tbr!)
Owen is a complex character, struggling with his self identity as someone that can literally be anyone. The exploration of his relationships and how they have impacted him was powerful. I loved his banter with Shara! She was so sweet throughout the entire book, and her tragic backstory and then continual perseverance was heart wrenching.
Tropes:
• dark carnival 🎪
• MM / MF
• love triangle
• forbidden magic
• hidden identity
• SPICEY 🌶️
Thank you SO much @dmcancel for the early copy of this book! 🖤
June 19, 2024
“There was one thing everyone knew at the Great Bazaar. If you went against the ringmaster, you didn’t have a home there anymore.” I was looking forward to reading this as soon as I saw it was about a dark paranormal circus which reminded me immediately of The Night Circus by Erin Morganstern which is one of my all time favorite books. The two novels had a lot of similar things in common such as being powered with real magic as well as appearing and disappearing randomly with no warning. The one thing I found super interesting about this novel was the transition of main characters throughout the entire novel Owen was a main character but through the first part of the novel Asher was also viewed as a main character while by the end the second main character seems to shift from Asher to Shara. I thought this was super interesting as I have never really seen a shift in character focus In a singular book before. I really loved learning more about the art of “witchcraft” and I feel like this novel definitely has a vibe similar to that of 1600s Massachusetts during the Salem Witch Trials. This novel just gave off that kind of feel with a similar hunt for witches and their execution after they are captured. I think the one part of this novel I would personally change would be changing the narration from third person to first person. For me the third person narration was super confusing especially in the beginning of the book. When the early chapters are discussing Owen and Asher there were multiple times when the narrator was referring to the characters as “he” however there were multiple “he’s” and I was super confused of which character was being referred to at different times. I also felt that some of the spicy scenes in the beginning of the novel were a little unnecessary. The first chapter starts out with a lot of spice and continues for most of the earlier chapters which took me kind of off guard. Overall I really enjoyed the plot and story line and am definitely looking forward to a sequel to find out what happens next after this novel ended on a cliff hanger. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes romance, fantasy or romantasy novels as well as anyone who likes LQBTQ+ novels or are fans of the novel the Night Circus.
June 11, 2024
Wow! I loved Shifted! Honestly, I read this during a time where I was feeling like I needed to change genres and move away from fantasy. With that being said, I finished this book fairky quickly and thoroughly enjoyed it! All of the characters, side and main, felt fleshed out in a way that I was rooting for them, so frustrated for them, and loved them for the way that they took care of each other.
The author has a very good way of using descriptors for characters and settings where it doesn't feel like she's trying too hard to set the scene. It felt very natural and and easy to read. I had such vivid images of the Great Bazaar as I was reading and could easily imagine being there amongst the crowds in the tent and walking between the game booths.
This was such a fun story to read and I can't wait for book 2!
The author has a very good way of using descriptors for characters and settings where it doesn't feel like she's trying too hard to set the scene. It felt very natural and and easy to read. I had such vivid images of the Great Bazaar as I was reading and could easily imagine being there amongst the crowds in the tent and walking between the game booths.
This was such a fun story to read and I can't wait for book 2!
June 6, 2024
(arc) Review …This is one of the first “Fantasy “books I read that the first 25% was just pure “Smut” 😂 It just smacks you right in the face “Bang”🎇 lol 😂 it just seemed very odd. I was interested in reading this book because certain aspects like “Shifters” and the Carnival/Bazaar” atmosphere but there was very little of that . The plot was ok … dragged through the middle of the book and I just felt very disconnected. To me this book has so much potential but just fell flat for me.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
June 14, 2024
*Arc Review* This book is very interesting! I loved the world building and explanation for everything thats going on. Very spicy in the beginning then goes more towards romance. My emotions were all over the place!! Can't wait to see where the next book is going to go with that ending!! Definitely check triggers before reading!
May 22, 2024
I got this as an ARC and was super excited to read it BUT It was really hard for me to get into this book. The first 25% was all spice and no plot. I love spicy books but this was a bit much. It does pick up a bit once you get past the initial smut
June 4, 2024
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Review: First let me say that this book has some trigger warnings and I would definitely recommend checking them out prior to reading, some people may not be comfortable with certain aspects of this book.
That being said, this was EXCELLENT. Overlooking some technical errors with spelling and mechanics, this story is unique, devilishly sexy, and entertaining. I will say though, that it did leave me wanting for more. I want to learn more about the war, I want to learn more about what Owen has been doing in the time he's been away, I feel like there's so much background to be explored that could have easily been satisfied with maybe another 100 pages, which would have still kept the book at a very reasonable length.
Quick read, extremely spicy and pretty early on, with some interesting magic and lore.
I hope that a sequel is written because this is a wonderful tale that I'd love to see more of.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Review: First let me say that this book has some trigger warnings and I would definitely recommend checking them out prior to reading, some people may not be comfortable with certain aspects of this book.
That being said, this was EXCELLENT. Overlooking some technical errors with spelling and mechanics, this story is unique, devilishly sexy, and entertaining. I will say though, that it did leave me wanting for more. I want to learn more about the war, I want to learn more about what Owen has been doing in the time he's been away, I feel like there's so much background to be explored that could have easily been satisfied with maybe another 100 pages, which would have still kept the book at a very reasonable length.
Quick read, extremely spicy and pretty early on, with some interesting magic and lore.
I hope that a sequel is written because this is a wonderful tale that I'd love to see more of.
May 23, 2024
Thank you for allowing me to ARC read this book in exchange for an honest review!
*may* contain minor spoilers!
The first 25% of this book gave the vibes of 'The Night Circus' if it was spicy. I'm really sad that after the first 25%, we move out of the circus and into the city. I was THOROUGHLY enjoying everything the circus was, and I absolutely loved Asher and all the other circus characters. The city, however, was very fun to experience, and I honestly think it was needed to help Owen's development as a character. My boy needed the city life back at the circus (as if he wasn't already living it 👀). The shifter element was also quite interesting, and I thought it was a more unique take on shifters and the types of powers they can have!
Shara also had some great character development, especially in the trust department! I can't wait to see how it translates over to her new relationships moving forward. I really loved the other characters we got to meet within the city, and I hope we get to see them in the future. I'm really hoping this story continues and leads us right back to the circus! I'd love to really get to know the magic of it and know more about the different supernatural creatures that reside there. I'd also really love to see the relationships between Asher and Owen, Shara and Owen, and Asher and Shara develop separately and how they all end up working together.
*may* contain minor spoilers!
The first 25% of this book gave the vibes of 'The Night Circus' if it was spicy. I'm really sad that after the first 25%, we move out of the circus and into the city. I was THOROUGHLY enjoying everything the circus was, and I absolutely loved Asher and all the other circus characters. The city, however, was very fun to experience, and I honestly think it was needed to help Owen's development as a character. My boy needed the city life back at the circus (as if he wasn't already living it 👀). The shifter element was also quite interesting, and I thought it was a more unique take on shifters and the types of powers they can have!
Shara also had some great character development, especially in the trust department! I can't wait to see how it translates over to her new relationships moving forward. I really loved the other characters we got to meet within the city, and I hope we get to see them in the future. I'm really hoping this story continues and leads us right back to the circus! I'd love to really get to know the magic of it and know more about the different supernatural creatures that reside there. I'd also really love to see the relationships between Asher and Owen, Shara and Owen, and Asher and Shara develop separately and how they all end up working together.
May 10, 2024
I was given the exciting opportunity to read an ARC copy of this book and was not disappointed! The book is spicy, and lets you know right away. I personally love a spice up front book and can get annoyed with a slow burner spice so it was right up my alley. The shifter romance is beautifully written and I can’t wait to read more from this author! I don’t want to write too much detail and spoil the experience for others before it releases, but I hope you do yourself a favor and pick up a copy.
June 18, 2024
I honestly forgot how much I adore books by this author. Once I started this book I could not put it down. It’s a fantastic story of how Owen and Shara started and it’s so nice getting to know them more. They fit perfectly together. They are both so kind and take care of others. I am intrigued to know more about Asher and the carnival. Seems a lot changed since Owen left. I love these stores and can’t wait for me.
June 5, 2024
📚ᎪᏒᏟ ᏒᎬᏉᎥᎬᎳ📚
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Danielle Cancel has delivered yet another magical, jaw-dropping Romantasy story full of longing, sex, self-discovery and adventure that you won't want to put down. You know a book is going to be good when there is spice introduced in the first chapter and Shifted delivers. These scenes sink their claws into you and hold you down with their sultry thoughts and hungry, voracious actions which describe our MMC Owen’s personality to a core. BUT be warned….because Danielle is a tease and after the claws have sunk in, they will shred your heart with lost love, sadness and feelings of rejection. If you’re looking for a book that focuses heavily on mental trauma, strong character development and growth, overcoming life-lessons then this is the book for you.
This adventure mostly delves into what it means to be a shifter; especially from Owen’s POV and the mental toll that shifting can make on one’s mind and personality. I loved watching Owen’s character grow and mature throughout the book and the different life lessons that he had to endure. The love triangle dynamic plays a huge role in Owen’s story so it was interesting to see how both lovers, Asher & Shara mingled with Owen and affected his life. Both of Owen’s lovers were two different sides of a coin and showed the different dynamics of the love triangle. Asher and Shara both came into Owen’s life at different times and each gave him what he needed in that time of pain and self-discovery.
I hated some of Owen’s decisions earlier on and wanted to just smack him in the head for being so stupid but Danielle’s writing translates his personality well as to WHY he acts out or doesn’t commit the way he should (but i still don’t have to like it. lol) I liked that Owen’s friends and our FMC, Shara, had a part in his growth and helped open his eyes to what he’d missed and lost and eventually how to rectify things from his past.
The world-building in the beginning of the book was fast-paced, easy to grasp and not overwhelming. I honestly loved learning anything about the carnival and the supernatural creatures that lived within and would have enjoyed seeing more of the carnival life. I understand though, that this story follows Owen and his feeling of being caged, which meant we would get other settings. The city life fitted his needs at that time but I loved that he and his friends still stayed as a group, opening up their home for strays and the misfits.
The characters in this book are amazing!! I absolutely loved Asher’s character from the very beginning. He’s kind, he’s sexy and he took care of Owen when he was hurting. I can’t wait to see more of him in the next book, what has happened to him that we’ve missed and more importantly, how his development and relationship with Shara and Owen will go now. Shara was fierce, snarky and teasing and I loved her character from the moment she was introduced. Even though she was supposed to be hiding, she took what she wanted from Owen and didnt care what he thought. I love that she took his hat when they first met.
Personally, I also loved that Danielle squeezes in LOTS of life lessons in this book; lessons that not only Owen had to work through mentally but lessons that the reader can take away from too!!
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Danielle Cancel has delivered yet another magical, jaw-dropping Romantasy story full of longing, sex, self-discovery and adventure that you won't want to put down. You know a book is going to be good when there is spice introduced in the first chapter and Shifted delivers. These scenes sink their claws into you and hold you down with their sultry thoughts and hungry, voracious actions which describe our MMC Owen’s personality to a core. BUT be warned….because Danielle is a tease and after the claws have sunk in, they will shred your heart with lost love, sadness and feelings of rejection. If you’re looking for a book that focuses heavily on mental trauma, strong character development and growth, overcoming life-lessons then this is the book for you.
This adventure mostly delves into what it means to be a shifter; especially from Owen’s POV and the mental toll that shifting can make on one’s mind and personality. I loved watching Owen’s character grow and mature throughout the book and the different life lessons that he had to endure. The love triangle dynamic plays a huge role in Owen’s story so it was interesting to see how both lovers, Asher & Shara mingled with Owen and affected his life. Both of Owen’s lovers were two different sides of a coin and showed the different dynamics of the love triangle. Asher and Shara both came into Owen’s life at different times and each gave him what he needed in that time of pain and self-discovery.
I hated some of Owen’s decisions earlier on and wanted to just smack him in the head for being so stupid but Danielle’s writing translates his personality well as to WHY he acts out or doesn’t commit the way he should (but i still don’t have to like it. lol) I liked that Owen’s friends and our FMC, Shara, had a part in his growth and helped open his eyes to what he’d missed and lost and eventually how to rectify things from his past.
The world-building in the beginning of the book was fast-paced, easy to grasp and not overwhelming. I honestly loved learning anything about the carnival and the supernatural creatures that lived within and would have enjoyed seeing more of the carnival life. I understand though, that this story follows Owen and his feeling of being caged, which meant we would get other settings. The city life fitted his needs at that time but I loved that he and his friends still stayed as a group, opening up their home for strays and the misfits.
The characters in this book are amazing!! I absolutely loved Asher’s character from the very beginning. He’s kind, he’s sexy and he took care of Owen when he was hurting. I can’t wait to see more of him in the next book, what has happened to him that we’ve missed and more importantly, how his development and relationship with Shara and Owen will go now. Shara was fierce, snarky and teasing and I loved her character from the moment she was introduced. Even though she was supposed to be hiding, she took what she wanted from Owen and didnt care what he thought. I love that she took his hat when they first met.
Personally, I also loved that Danielle squeezes in LOTS of life lessons in this book; lessons that not only Owen had to work through mentally but lessons that the reader can take away from too!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 25, 2024
I was really looking forward to Shifted. Anything dark circus, right here. MMF - I'm all in. The beginning of this book really intrigued me. I was immediately sucked into the world and I was invested in Owen and Asher's relationship. I loved the spice between them. For me, there can never be too much sex as long as there's an interesting story going on to support it. And in this case, sex is a huge part of who Owen is and how he copes with being a shifter, so it didn't feel gratuitous. An emotionally layered and complicated love story was started between these two characters and I was excited to see where it was going.
However, the minute Shara entered the story, I pretty much lost interest. I DID NOT buy Owen's instant attraction to her. Her appearance felt intrusive. She annoyed me to no end (I've seriously reached my quota of cookie cutter feisty FMCs and their "secrets") and her and Owen's slow burn relationship felt forced. It didn't help that Shara was too dense to recognize Owen - despite talking just like him and knowing he was a shifter, she couldn't see what was right in front of her face. Which didn't track given how perceptive she was with everything else going on. The lack of trust between these two characters was too drawn out and it undermined any investment I could have had in them. Lastly, Shara's backstory, the little we got of it, was predictable and a let down.
I stuck it out with this book because I was hoping the storyline would circle back to Asher and tie the whole thing together. But alas...
Even though there is a sequel forthcoming that will explore Asher's story, I'm so disappointed with Owen and Shara's story, I doubt I'll go any further. The overriding feeling I had throughout this book was heartbreak - for the one that got left behind (pretty ruthlessly IMO) and his glaringly abandoned POV.
There were other problems, which wouldn't have been a huge deal if the story had worked. The writing was choppy in places. I often couldn't figure out who was talking and I'd have to go back and reread the sequence to figure out what was going on. I think the book could have used another edit to smooth out the flow of dialogue. I liked some of the secondary characters, but really didn't get enough of them.
Shifted really felt like two different books to me - one I loved and one I had to force myself to finish. As an author myself, I really avoid giving 2** reviews. If I'm invested and care about the characters, I can forgive a lot problem spots. But unfortunately, not with this one.
However, the minute Shara entered the story, I pretty much lost interest. I DID NOT buy Owen's instant attraction to her. Her appearance felt intrusive. She annoyed me to no end (I've seriously reached my quota of cookie cutter feisty FMCs and their "secrets") and her and Owen's slow burn relationship felt forced. It didn't help that Shara was too dense to recognize Owen - despite talking just like him and knowing he was a shifter, she couldn't see what was right in front of her face. Which didn't track given how perceptive she was with everything else going on. The lack of trust between these two characters was too drawn out and it undermined any investment I could have had in them. Lastly, Shara's backstory, the little we got of it, was predictable and a let down.
I stuck it out with this book because I was hoping the storyline would circle back to Asher and tie the whole thing together. But alas...
Even though there is a sequel forthcoming that will explore Asher's story, I'm so disappointed with Owen and Shara's story, I doubt I'll go any further. The overriding feeling I had throughout this book was heartbreak - for the one that got left behind (pretty ruthlessly IMO) and his glaringly abandoned POV.
There were other problems, which wouldn't have been a huge deal if the story had worked. The writing was choppy in places. I often couldn't figure out who was talking and I'd have to go back and reread the sequence to figure out what was going on. I think the book could have used another edit to smooth out the flow of dialogue. I liked some of the secondary characters, but really didn't get enough of them.
Shifted really felt like two different books to me - one I loved and one I had to force myself to finish. As an author myself, I really avoid giving 2** reviews. If I'm invested and care about the characters, I can forgive a lot problem spots. But unfortunately, not with this one.
July 24, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ⭐️Review for Shifted
Okay y’all, let me tell you I was lucky enough to be selected as an ARC reader for Shifted (!!!) but then I lost my Kindle… tragic, I know. So this review is fashionably late, but let me just say: worth the wait.
From the very first chapters, I was like “Whoa, this is spicy!” I mean, SO much sex right off the bat — not a bad thing at all, just way more than I was expecting. But once I settled into the rhythm of it, the magic of the story took over, and I devoured the whole thing in just three hours.
I was instantly captivated by Owen and his Shifter powers. The way Danielle builds her world is chef’s kiss fast, immersive, and full of emotion. Her writing makes you feel like you’re in the story, living through each character’s heartbreak, desire, and transformation.
The carnival was captivating I found myself desperately wishing the Great Bazaar was real, just so I could experience the magic firsthand. Fairies, mermaids, dark creatures… I want to walk among them all.
Owen? Misunderstood, powerful, and so vulnerable beneath his bravado. I felt for him deeply.
Asher? Their relationship broke me. I kept switching between “ugh I get it” and “I AM SO MAD AT YOU.” The emotional whiplash was real.
And Shara? Absolute queen. Fierce, soft, complex — I wanted to be her and protect her at the same time. I also love that she wasn’t your stereotypical fantasy heroine. More curly-haired witches, please!
My only tiny gripe: the ending felt a little rushed. The moment they were captured, I was buckling up for a wild ride and wanted more. But then—BAM—“Come home.”
EXCUSE ME??? What kind of cliffhanger was that?! 😭 I need book two immediately.
Favorite lines
✨ “So mean for something so tiny”
✨ “Are you always like this?”
✨ “My little creature”
✨ “You’re safe with me”
Final thoughts:
Shifted was steamy, a little goofy, heartbreakingly sweet, and full of messy, passionate romance. I laughed, I got mad, I cried, I swooned. 4 stars because I really enjoyed it, and I know book two is going to blow things wide open. Danielle, I’m ready for more! 🐺💚🔥
Okay y’all, let me tell you I was lucky enough to be selected as an ARC reader for Shifted (!!!) but then I lost my Kindle… tragic, I know. So this review is fashionably late, but let me just say: worth the wait.
From the very first chapters, I was like “Whoa, this is spicy!” I mean, SO much sex right off the bat — not a bad thing at all, just way more than I was expecting. But once I settled into the rhythm of it, the magic of the story took over, and I devoured the whole thing in just three hours.
I was instantly captivated by Owen and his Shifter powers. The way Danielle builds her world is chef’s kiss fast, immersive, and full of emotion. Her writing makes you feel like you’re in the story, living through each character’s heartbreak, desire, and transformation.
The carnival was captivating I found myself desperately wishing the Great Bazaar was real, just so I could experience the magic firsthand. Fairies, mermaids, dark creatures… I want to walk among them all.
Owen? Misunderstood, powerful, and so vulnerable beneath his bravado. I felt for him deeply.
Asher? Their relationship broke me. I kept switching between “ugh I get it” and “I AM SO MAD AT YOU.” The emotional whiplash was real.
And Shara? Absolute queen. Fierce, soft, complex — I wanted to be her and protect her at the same time. I also love that she wasn’t your stereotypical fantasy heroine. More curly-haired witches, please!
My only tiny gripe: the ending felt a little rushed. The moment they were captured, I was buckling up for a wild ride and wanted more. But then—BAM—“Come home.”
EXCUSE ME??? What kind of cliffhanger was that?! 😭 I need book two immediately.
Favorite lines
✨ “So mean for something so tiny”
✨ “Are you always like this?”
✨ “My little creature”
✨ “You’re safe with me”
Final thoughts:
Shifted was steamy, a little goofy, heartbreakingly sweet, and full of messy, passionate romance. I laughed, I got mad, I cried, I swooned. 4 stars because I really enjoyed it, and I know book two is going to blow things wide open. Danielle, I’m ready for more! 🐺💚🔥
June 30, 2024
This was an interesting concept and story. In a world where magical creatures and people with abilities are hunted, many go into hiding or into safe areas, while some join the Carnival. The carnival is magicked in that you need ticketed entry and when the festivities end, it disappears without a trace. MMC Owen is a shifter, he can take on the looks of anything he desires, and scary creatures are what the ringmaster desires. When Owen is faced with having to take on the appearance of the ringmaster to keep the carnival and its features going, he is plagued with feelings and mannerisms that are of the ringmaster, which, when even in his own body are hard to shake off. Once he meets Shara, his life takes an interesting turn.
The start of this book had a lot of promise, and I did like the carnival protection aspect to this story. I would have liked to see this further explored in this story, granted, I understand as this is the first book in the series, this will likely come in to more of the future of Owen. Though as that is a high background in this story, I do believe it deserved more than ~30% of the book and really only taking on setting the foreground of Owen's tale. I also had a bit of a hard time investing myself in Owen and Shara's relationship. I liked their original connection at first meet, but to have Owen not feel good enough to be truthful, and Shara so blind to believe what is in front of her face gave miscommunication trope vibes which I think did not necessarily add to the complexities of their dynamic. Especially with Owen's friends continually attempting to help him better accept himself and the positives that he brings to any relationship or friendship.
I will likely continue this series as I think there is a lot of promise for this story to continue on that I would like to be explored. Do I think this story could have had a stronger start, yes, but I did still enjoy the read.
The start of this book had a lot of promise, and I did like the carnival protection aspect to this story. I would have liked to see this further explored in this story, granted, I understand as this is the first book in the series, this will likely come in to more of the future of Owen. Though as that is a high background in this story, I do believe it deserved more than ~30% of the book and really only taking on setting the foreground of Owen's tale. I also had a bit of a hard time investing myself in Owen and Shara's relationship. I liked their original connection at first meet, but to have Owen not feel good enough to be truthful, and Shara so blind to believe what is in front of her face gave miscommunication trope vibes which I think did not necessarily add to the complexities of their dynamic. Especially with Owen's friends continually attempting to help him better accept himself and the positives that he brings to any relationship or friendship.
I will likely continue this series as I think there is a lot of promise for this story to continue on that I would like to be explored. Do I think this story could have had a stronger start, yes, but I did still enjoy the read.
May 31, 2024
I am so glad I had the opportunity to read the ARC for this book.
**There are minor spoilers in this review**
My main issue with this book is that the first several chapters were very spicy (MM/MMM/MMF), but it had nothing to do with helping the story along. I am a fan of spice but it got to the point where it was a bit boring. Like, we get it.. the MMC loves to f*ck anything and everything he can touch. I was starting to worry this book would have no actual plot. However, that changed rather quickly after the first 6ish chapters. I do wish there were more details about the actual carnival (excitement, dangers, magic, etc.)
Overall, I did end up really enjoying the story. It definitely got better the further I read. I am a big fan of banter and found family, which this book has. Danielle did a wonderful job of making me fall in love with all of the characters. No matter how small their part was in the story, they mattered and really added to the book. The character building for Owen (MMC) and Shara (FMC) was fantastic. I could feel Owen's heartbreak and want to be selfish but also his desire to care for everyone around him. Shara is so used to being on her own and on the run, it was nice to see her give someone a chance.
It is also set in an interesting world. I loved the carnival and Hawthorne. I feel like this book flowed really well and I am excited to see what happens in the second book. I hope the second book provides more details about the world before the war, as well as even more details about life in the carnival. There are so many ways this story could go!
You also meet some characters that I guess are from another series, Twisted Fates. I don't think you need to read that series before you read this book, but because I read this book, I am definitely going to read that series LOL I need to know more about Soran and Alice.
**There are minor spoilers in this review**
My main issue with this book is that the first several chapters were very spicy (MM/MMM/MMF), but it had nothing to do with helping the story along. I am a fan of spice but it got to the point where it was a bit boring. Like, we get it.. the MMC loves to f*ck anything and everything he can touch. I was starting to worry this book would have no actual plot. However, that changed rather quickly after the first 6ish chapters. I do wish there were more details about the actual carnival (excitement, dangers, magic, etc.)
Overall, I did end up really enjoying the story. It definitely got better the further I read. I am a big fan of banter and found family, which this book has. Danielle did a wonderful job of making me fall in love with all of the characters. No matter how small their part was in the story, they mattered and really added to the book. The character building for Owen (MMC) and Shara (FMC) was fantastic. I could feel Owen's heartbreak and want to be selfish but also his desire to care for everyone around him. Shara is so used to being on her own and on the run, it was nice to see her give someone a chance.
It is also set in an interesting world. I loved the carnival and Hawthorne. I feel like this book flowed really well and I am excited to see what happens in the second book. I hope the second book provides more details about the world before the war, as well as even more details about life in the carnival. There are so many ways this story could go!
You also meet some characters that I guess are from another series, Twisted Fates. I don't think you need to read that series before you read this book, but because I read this book, I am definitely going to read that series LOL I need to know more about Soran and Alice.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 13, 2024
⚫︎ friends to lovers
⚫︎ second chance romance
⚫︎ why choose
⚫︎ fated mate(s)
⚫︎ hidden identity
⚫︎ dark circus
𝙒𝙖𝙧𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜—There are explicit sex scenes with MM MF MFM MMM, the first 25% of this book is just pure 𝙎𝙈𝙐𝙏.
Danielle pulls you in instantly with the dark circus settings, strong characters, and the war against magic! The plot was a slow but enticing build, letting you enjoy the beautiful friendships and growing romance the characters share.
Owen has a captivating tale that breaks your heart while simultaneously warming your soul and that inner child that always wondered what it would be like to be anyone else can see the tragedy in what being anyone but yourself is. The books dedication fits Owen perfectly.
↳ 𝙏𝙤 𝙖𝙣𝙮𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙬𝙝𝙤’𝙨 𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙛𝙚𝙡𝙩 𝙖𝙘𝙘𝙚𝙥𝙩𝙚𝙙.
He starts off as a major playboy, his relationships are casual, his emotions are guarded, his self worth is low and everyones expectations weigh heavy on him as a shifter. His character build throughout the story is phenomenal, Shara and Asher both bring out the best parts of him—even when he tries to hide them!
The loyal friendships are admirable, the romance is slow and burning, overall the diverse characters were all fun to meet! I adored the 𝙢𝙞𝙨𝙛𝙞𝙩 vibes they had!
Shara? Asher? Shara? Asher? This is a why choose, but I am still going to choose Asher! He has an addicting personality, a strong dedication to Owen, and I could not help but love him. I wanted so much more of this man, but instead we got Shara! Shara has such a bubbly and light personality that rivals Owen perfectly! These two share such fun banter, lust filled moments, and adorably, loving scenes where you really see the real Owen!
The ending was great, just enough to leave me satisfied but anxious for more! The butterflies I got in my stomach from the 𝗟𝗔𝗦𝗧 𝗧𝗪𝗢 𝗪𝗢𝗥𝗗𝗦 🦋 I can not wait to see where the story takes Owen, Shara, and Asher!
⚫︎ second chance romance
⚫︎ why choose
⚫︎ fated mate(s)
⚫︎ hidden identity
⚫︎ dark circus
𝙒𝙖𝙧𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜—There are explicit sex scenes with MM MF MFM MMM, the first 25% of this book is just pure 𝙎𝙈𝙐𝙏.
Danielle pulls you in instantly with the dark circus settings, strong characters, and the war against magic! The plot was a slow but enticing build, letting you enjoy the beautiful friendships and growing romance the characters share.
Owen has a captivating tale that breaks your heart while simultaneously warming your soul and that inner child that always wondered what it would be like to be anyone else can see the tragedy in what being anyone but yourself is. The books dedication fits Owen perfectly.
↳ 𝙏𝙤 𝙖𝙣𝙮𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙬𝙝𝙤’𝙨 𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙛𝙚𝙡𝙩 𝙖𝙘𝙘𝙚𝙥𝙩𝙚𝙙.
He starts off as a major playboy, his relationships are casual, his emotions are guarded, his self worth is low and everyones expectations weigh heavy on him as a shifter. His character build throughout the story is phenomenal, Shara and Asher both bring out the best parts of him—even when he tries to hide them!
The loyal friendships are admirable, the romance is slow and burning, overall the diverse characters were all fun to meet! I adored the 𝙢𝙞𝙨𝙛𝙞𝙩 vibes they had!
Shara? Asher? Shara? Asher? This is a why choose, but I am still going to choose Asher! He has an addicting personality, a strong dedication to Owen, and I could not help but love him. I wanted so much more of this man, but instead we got Shara! Shara has such a bubbly and light personality that rivals Owen perfectly! These two share such fun banter, lust filled moments, and adorably, loving scenes where you really see the real Owen!
The ending was great, just enough to leave me satisfied but anxious for more! The butterflies I got in my stomach from the 𝗟𝗔𝗦𝗧 𝗧𝗪𝗢 𝗪𝗢𝗥𝗗𝗦 🦋 I can not wait to see where the story takes Owen, Shara, and Asher!
November 11, 2024
"He probably would have done better if he wasn’t eating a roast beef sandwich as he followed her."
This is a great story with a diverse cast and wonderfully deep internal workings of the main characters. It's easy to fall into the plot and in love with the characters. As a reader, I felt what the characters were feeling—joy, terror, arousal, angst, worry, hope—and it was hard to let go of the world when the book ended.
It's set in a world where the main characters are marginalized, scorned and sometimes even hunted. This elicited a lot of strong emotions and for a large portion of it I was uncomfortable—not because the writing was bad or the story was awkward or problematic, but because the writing was good and I could really emphasize with the characters.
One of the main interpersonal conflicts was hard for me to swallow personally, because it skirted the edges of one of my least favourite tropes: Miscommunication. This wasn't quite that, but more like Bad communication? Scared to love, and mean because of it? I wanted to yell "Just talk to each other, you nitwits?" There's also a series of choices happening that was physically painful to watch, like a train wreck waiting to happen. However, when put in context with the rest of the story, it both made sense and worked for me.
One of the most difficult thing for me to wrap my head around was the narrator tense. I think I eventually narrowed it down to "3rd person, omnipotent narrator, multiple POV's (but mostly limited to a single character at a time)"? This made it harder for me to differentiate between who was narrating at any given time, because there were hints at the other characters' inner workings and reactions as well that the POV character wouldn't reasonably be aware of.
⭐ 4
🌶️ 3
🧅 1
🤢 2
Would recommend
Might read again
Will continue the series
This is a great story with a diverse cast and wonderfully deep internal workings of the main characters. It's easy to fall into the plot and in love with the characters. As a reader, I felt what the characters were feeling—joy, terror, arousal, angst, worry, hope—and it was hard to let go of the world when the book ended.
It's set in a world where the main characters are marginalized, scorned and sometimes even hunted. This elicited a lot of strong emotions and for a large portion of it I was uncomfortable—not because the writing was bad or the story was awkward or problematic, but because the writing was good and I could really emphasize with the characters.
One of the main interpersonal conflicts was hard for me to swallow personally, because it skirted the edges of one of my least favourite tropes: Miscommunication. This wasn't quite that, but more like Bad communication? Scared to love, and mean because of it? I wanted to yell "Just talk to each other, you nitwits?" There's also a series of choices happening that was physically painful to watch, like a train wreck waiting to happen. However, when put in context with the rest of the story, it both made sense and worked for me.
One of the most difficult thing for me to wrap my head around was the narrator tense. I think I eventually narrowed it down to "3rd person, omnipotent narrator, multiple POV's (but mostly limited to a single character at a time)"? This made it harder for me to differentiate between who was narrating at any given time, because there were hints at the other characters' inner workings and reactions as well that the POV character wouldn't reasonably be aware of.
⭐ 4
🌶️ 3
🧅 1
🤢 2
Would recommend
Might read again
Will continue the series
May 11, 2024
I just read the most amazing first half of a story that I've ever read and I seriously cannot wait for the next half of this story! We are brought to the Great Bazaar (a magical carnival that moves every night to a new location); a carnival where our main male character Owen is working as a shape shifter. He slowly takes over as ring leader because the man who was in charge of the whole carnival is a drunk and is frequently passed out. Owen has trysts with several people who work with him. Archer is the man who Owen is in love with but does not do relationships so they're often found hooking up. One night; Owen is run into and knocked on his butt by the most adorable blonde woman named Shara. He doesn't know why but she has captivated his attention.. he doesn't know how but she snuck into the carnival... They spend time playing games and chatting - he is hiding his true face by shifting into someone who isn't him. While talking and the hour getting late; Shara disappears as the carnival has closed. It would be 2 years before Owen would set eyes on Shara. In Hawthorne; Shara is working in a cafe as a server. She ends up walking into the apothecary that Owen works in... He is himself and she doesn't recognize him. He gives the name Collin instead of his real name. Over the next few weeks; they get to know each other and eventually; Shara pieces it together that Collin and Owen are the same person. She does not run from him but embraces him and is so happy to be reunited with him as he is with her. They both had often thought of each other. Shananigans and chaos ensues.. it is fun, exhilarating and exciting. This is a must read!! There are familiar characters as well as new ones that you're introduced to!
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