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Step into Erin Kellison's captivating Shadow World...

Magic is bleeding into our world, bringing with it banshees, wraiths, and fae from the twisting forests of Twilight. But Ellie's problem is a very different kind of phenomenon...

Her shadow ought to be attached to her; instead it has a life of its own. And her dark mirror image is a wild thing, willfully seducing the very man Ellie hoped could help.

Dr. Cam Kalamos has devoted his career to exploring the elemental properties of Shadow. But nothing could prepare him for the mischief and mayhem of a soul split in two.

Who will surrender the man struggling to unite two halves of one fascinating female; the shadow fighting for freedom to experience the thrill of every emotion; or the woman who is about to discover her own deepest desires?

Shadow Touch is the first in the Shadow World novella series featuring Cam and Ellie's adventures.

86 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2011

24 people are currently reading
777 people want to read

About the author

Erin Kellison

54 books704 followers
Erin Kellison is the bestselling author of the Indulgence series, the Dragons of Bloodfire series, the Reveler series, and the Shadow series. She writes urban fantasy, paranormal romance, and fantasy. She loves other worlds and visits them as often as possible via movies and books and her kids' imaginations. When not daydreaming or writing, she's goofing off with her family in sunny Arizona.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
Profile Image for Linda.
1,128 reviews54 followers
January 10, 2016
SHADOW TOUCH is the first novella in SHADOW TOUCHED.

SHADOW TOUCHED by Erin Kellison is a superbly unique short story compilation. It's set in our world at a time when Shadow aka dark magic is moving into the norm. Shadow originated in Twilight; Twilight is the place between life and what comes after—a dark forest of fantasy, filled with beauty, peril and mystery -and the home of the Fae. Erin previously blew me away with her Reveler series and SHADOW TOUCHED does it, again. I've never read anything like this. It's dark and suspenseful with just the right touch of romance and humor to offset.

This set of stories represent the life story of Eleanor "Ellie" Russo and Doctor Cameron "Cam" Kalomos. I liked both leads. Ellie was an anomaly - born with her shadow unattached. She was raised by her grandmother after both her parents had abandoned her - unable to cope with her and her footloose shadow. Her Grandmother had been good to Ellie. She had moved to a rambling old farmhouse in the wide open spaces outside Phoenix to raise her - so Ellie didn't have to cope with the limelight until recently when her Grandmother passed. However, life has become unbearable for Ellie. Her shadow acts on instinct rather than reason, is much more feral, has been gaining strength and refuses to abide by Ellie's wishes. Ellie is at her wit's end and has sought the help of Doctor Kalomos and the Segue Institute to make her and her shadow completely autonomous. Here's a short description about the Segue Institute:

The Segue Institute was the preeminent research organization for all things paranormal and it was housed in a haunted, renovated turn of-the-century hotel. The place was supposedly loaded with what the scientists there called Shadow, capital S, a scary word for magic. Dark magic.

SHADOW TOUCHED includes four novellas that combined equal the full story of Ellie and Cam. Each story drew me in more as dark magic gained a stronger foothold in our world and Ellie and Cam developed a relationship that was much more than that of a subject and her researcher. Following please find a short description of each novella.

In SHADOW TOUCH, the first novella, we are introduced to Ellie, Cam, the Segue Institute and the situation with Ellie and her shadow. An expert's controversial help is sought to assist.

SHADOW PLAY, the second novella, takes place a few months after SHADOW TOUCH. Cam and Ellie have been working together seeking ways to control and work with her shadow. It is not easy for Ellie. Then... the emergency assistance of the Segue Institute is requested to rescue a child who has been lured into Twilight. Ellie is determined to aid the child's distraught mother. This tale introduces the Mages.

SHADOW HUNT is the third novella. It begins with an horrific murder at the Segue Institute. Cam, now fae-touched, and Ellie are determined to bring the murderer to justice which entails a dangerous, action-packed visit to the domain of one of the Mages' houses. The situation definitely get more threatening in this installment. Cam, Ellie and her shadow must learn to work together to survive.

SHADOW BURN is the final and previously unpublished novella. It's teeming with fast-paced, high-stakes action and heart-felt passion. I was on the edge of my seat for much of it. Have no fear, though - the author deftly wraps Cam's and Ellie's story up with a happy, tidy bow - so the reader is left with a smile.

When I started this book, I was unaware that this set of novellas were off-shoots from Erin's Shadow series - which I have not read. It took me a bit to become acclimated to the setting - but, truly, not that long as the author does fill in any necessary information from what had previously transpired in the Shadow series. However, reading SHADOW TOUCHED has whet my appetite to go back and read her Shadow series.

I thoroughly enjoyed this set of novellas and am fascinated by the encroaching Shadow. I can't wait to read more stories set in this world. I would highly recommend SHADOW TOUCHED to anyone who enjoys dark paranormal urban fantasies. Just be prepared for a roller coaster ride!
Profile Image for Mandi.
2,356 reviews733 followers
June 6, 2011
Since the day she was born, Ellie has lived with her shadow as a separate entity. This shadow has a mind of its own, always trying to undermine Ellie, embarrass her, and Ellie has lived a secluded life because of it. But in essence, this shadow is Ellie. It is her deepest feelings and ambitions. But Ellie has no control over it. It can move through objects, and speak. It is nude, and has no problem flaunting her body or saying inappropriate things.

Ellie has sought the help of Dr. Cameron Kalamos, who works at the Segue Institute – a leader in researching the magical fae beings that live in another realm, called Shadow. Cam is not prepared though for this shadow, and his feelings are not prepared for Ellie.

I very much enjoy this world Erin Kellison has created in her first two books, Shadow Bound and Shadow Fall. They are a dark, paranormal romantic suspense. In this novella (which can be read as a stand alone) we get a brief glimpse into Ellie whose shadow has in essence disconnected from her. What Cam comes to realize is that her shadow really is Ellie, and eventually Ellie must make a difficult decision. Cam is new to the institute and is ready to prove himself. What he learns is that nothing is easy when it comes to Shadow and magic and what you must always expect the unexpected. I think this is a very unique story and although it is quite short, it is very entertaining.

The romance is very understated in this one. There are some feelings on both sides, but we only see the very beginning of the romance. I also think the resolution with the shadow comes a little too quick and easy. But that being said, this story is different and engaging and it makes me yearn for the next in the series, Shadowman coming out this fall.

Rating: B-
Profile Image for Christine.
10.7k reviews34 followers
April 13, 2024
For a honest Review in my own words. Ellie russio has a shadow sided and needs help controlling her so she goes to dr. Cameron kalames . this is a different take on the two sides of our personalities
Profile Image for Emme .
122 reviews9 followers
October 2, 2011
I love a Kindle book bargain--and at $0.00 this one was a steal! Oh, though I do hate falling into the middle of series-- and it seems that this novella falls at 2.5 in Kellison's Shadow series. I take it from reading reviews of other books in this series that I haven't spoiled my fun in reading Shadow Touch first. Good thing!

My, my! This one grabbed me from the very first-- and that is a feat, in and of itself. I love the premise of a woman who has two selves-- her corporeal self, and a shadow self. That Ellie's shadow is the naughty side of her is delectable detail. Sure we have seen a division of selves in other works (Jekyll and Hyde obviously comes to mind...but there are many other examples). I admire how Ellie has tried to keep it together-- even if she can't, in good conscience, meld her shadow with herself. I kept going back and forth trying to decide which was Ellie's true self. Because I have these same struggles (naughty or nice...nice or naughty...dammit, I can't decide. Let's have a glass of milk and ponder this...hehehe), my inclination was to go with the Shadow-- because I wanted to see what further mischief would abound.

Ah, and we come to the hero of this tale-- Cam, a problematic, if well-meaning, hero. It's funny how I felt like I knew how he thinks, when this is such a short story! Some writers seem to have difficulty fleshing out a character in 360+ pages but it is a credit to Kellison's craft that she reveals so much about Cam in such a short story. It doesn't happen often to me, but I was instantly attracted to Cam, and find myself wanting more of him, and his interactions with Ellie.

Let me get down to a few more things I liked about Shadow Touch. There is an overlay of folklore to the Shadow world-- and oh, I love that. Having had folklore as an area of specialty for my English degree I soak up any and all fairytale-like fiction. I like the idea of science investigating magic-- it's a silly indulgence on my part, but maybe some day there will be an intersection of the two beyond (dispelling) alchemy and parapsychology. The small taste of folklore in this story definitely intrigues me enough to want to read the rest of the series.

Something I found amusing is that this is a very sexy story (hmmm, a nude, lascivious Shadow-self--yummy!)but there is nothing graphic about. Oh, there's the tantalizing promise of sex-- Cam, Ellie and the shadow make for a rather interesting menage-a-trollop! But it says a lot for Kellison's talent that she doesn't let sex overwhelm the story, as some less-skilled writers are tempted.

My only disappointment is that I wanted this story to go on and on-- I wanted to know definitely how things turns out and this story ends with a cliffhanger. I guess I will have to appease my curiosity by backtracking to the first books in the Shadow series, and picking up with the newest release. In any case, I am in love with Kellison's characters and story-telling. I'm tickled about having found a new author to follow-- both the naughty and nice in me are undoubtedly hooked!
Profile Image for Yelania Nightwalker.
1,059 reviews185 followers
June 9, 2011
La vida de Ellie no ha sido nada fácil, porque esa parte oscura de ella, su sombra, se separó de su ser desde el nacimiento. Y sus emociones más fuertes, sus deseos más profundos y atrevidos, los posee sólo su sombra. En su búsqueda de una forma de acabar con su problema, se topa con Cam, un especialista del Instituto Segue. Él es el único que puede ayudarla, pero cuando por fin se encuentran, la otra Ellie, la desinhibida sombra, hará todo lo posible por quedárselo, pese a los muchos intentos de la Elli real porque no sea así, ¿quién se rendirá primero?

Pobre Ellie, la pasa muy mal con todo lo que su otro yo, la parte oscura de ella misma; le hace. Ver esa dualidad, esa misma esencia de la que está hecha, dándole problemas, desconectada de su carne pero atada a su alma fue interesante, divertido y sí, no hubo modo de evitar sentir cierta compasión por ella.

Shadow Touch tienen un concepto muy bueno, en una historia corta que no sólo prepara el camino hacia la tan esperada tercera entrega de la serie "Shadowman", sino que también nos jala más y más a un mundo donde todo es posible y los seres fantásticos que han poblado muchas historias conviven en uno sólo, creando un universo rico y lleno de emociones. Ésto estuvo genial.

----------------------

Ellie's life has not been easy, because the dark side of her, her shadow, was separated from her body at birth. And their strong feelings, their deepest desires and daring, those possessing only her shadow. In her search for a way to end the problem, she meets Cam, a specialist of the Segue Institute. He is the only one who can help her, but when they finally meet, the other Ellie, the uninhibited shadow, make every effort to keep him, despite many attempts by the real Elli because it is not so, who will surrender first?

Poor Ellie, passes very wrong with all that her alter ego, the dark side of herself, she does. View this duality, the very essence of which is made​​, giving trouble, off of her flesh but bound to her soul, was interesting, fun and yes, there was no way to avoid feeling some compassion for her.

Shadow Touch, have a very good concept, in a short story that not only paves the way for the much anticipated third installment of the series: "Shadowman", but also pulls us closer and closer to a world where everything is possible and the fantastic beings that have populated many stories, live into one, creating a rich universe full of emotions. This was great.
Profile Image for Laura.
Author 15 books613 followers
June 14, 2011
This novella is 2.5 from Erin Kellison's Shadow series. The next full-length novel is Shadow Man due out in September.

Shadow Touch was different-I haven't read much like it before. I really liked the idea of a girl born separate from her shadow, but still connected. It was a new concept to me.

Ellie and her shadow self are tethered to each other. Ellie has lived a hidden, lonely existence her whole life because she has a shadow...a living sentient shadow. One that acts purely on sensation and whim. This novella opens with Ellie seeking help and wanting to get rid of her shadow. What even Ellie doesn't know is that she can't live without her shadow self.

I like the psychological toll it took on Ellie to live as a rational girl, but having her shadow act out all of her whims and impulses. Her shadow self was a darker version of herself. For example-when Cam kissed her, she needed her shadow to step into herself to make the kiss go from pleasant to WOW factor. It was like she could feel the passion wanting and needing to be there, but she couldn't feel the actual passion itself without her darker self, her shadow self.

I didn't like how long it took to figure out all of that-it's a 60 page novella for crying out loud! Things (ie the plot) should have unfurled more quickly.

But the more I've thought about this novella, the more I want to read the whole series. I think that this one is a bit of a taste of the whole series.

This story, and Laurie's London's Hidden by Blood, is part of Laurie London and Erin Kellison's stop in their Dark Tour at www.demonloversbooksandmore.com on June 15th.


http://www.demonloversbooksandmore.co...
Profile Image for Zury.
74 reviews5 followers
November 1, 2011
How can anyone rate this book above 1 star? A word of advice: Don't Bother!

I thought the concept was interesting and had incredible potential, especially given the plot. However, the author seemed to lack the ability to make this a great story. There are so many problems with this story that I wouldn't know where to begin and end.

One major concept that really bugged me was the painting. It seemed to play such a drastic role in many of the characters including the Shadow, especially since they allude to how it will play a major role in the second book. Yet she never elaborated it very well. If u are you going to explain and describe a painting, learn how to do it. You must explain it in detail to truly capture the essence of what you're staring her. Her description didn't do it justice and in the end I'm still confused on how the painting really is. Gave me the impression that it somehow came to live (literally) yet didn't...? It just wasn't executed properly at all.

Also, how are you supposed to look into the eyes of a shadow? If the shadow is just a complete matte black figure, you wouldn't be able to see its eyes and ESPECIALLY see the expression of a shadow by their facial expression. How is that possible? That makes no sense. Body language? Yes. Facial expression... without a face... No.

And the list just goes on and on. Including the unnecessary need to have certain sexual undertones of how the shadow acted. Overall I was left confused and disgusted over wasting my time on it. Glad I didn't pay for this and it was a freebie. Don't waste your time on it. There are better books out there than this, including freebies.
Profile Image for All Things Urban Fantasy.
1,921 reviews621 followers
Read
June 17, 2011
Even a casual survey of dreams reveals how dark and twisty the human psyche can be, and in SHADOW TOUCH, Erin Kellison puts a new spin on the "went to school naked" nightmare. Ellie was born without the ability to hide her impulses, her reactions, or even her naked body, as her animated shadow struts along next to her, baring their secrets to the world.

SHADOW TOUCH revealed just enough about Ellie and her shadow to make me eager to seek them out in future books, and also piqued my interest about where the Shadow series began. This was my first experience with these books, and Kellison gives enough detail to orient and tantalize without bogging down the action.

It is this deft touch that makes SHADOW TOUCH a good read for both established fans and those of us who have been missing out. By combining the introduction of new characters as well as glimpses of familiar favorites, Kellison has created a novella with a little something for everyone. The next book in the Shadow series is titled SHADOWMAN and will be published on September 6, 2011.

Sexual Content: Kissing and lewd conduct
Profile Image for Kelly.
5,690 reviews228 followers
December 26, 2023
Short, but with lots of potential for some serious crazy. Which I appreciate. Because if you can't enjoy the crazy, what's life about, amirite?

Ellie is a woman with problems. Fairly big problems. She's desperate enough to plead her case to a scientist at a shadowy (heh) research facility. Only her issues with shadow are a little different than what Cam is used to. Which presents a bit of a problem because Cam doesn't have the means to help Ellie.

Did I mention that desperation thing? Yeah. Ellie's a little one edge and she's reached her breaking point. Her shadow's fascination with the sexy scientist might cause a few problems. Or it might be the first step in mending the things inside her that are broken.

Fun with some definite smolder. Part 2 should be interesting!

-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
4,130 reviews21 followers
March 3, 2024
Shadow Touch (Shadow World novella 1) by Erin Kellison is the first in a series of novellas dealing with Dr. Cam Kalamos and Elli Russo. While it is part of the Shadow Series, taking place in the Segue setting but not part of the wraith fight. It is an amazing story of magic leaking into the human world creating characters with unusual abilities and issues. Ellie is one of them but now it is too much for her to handle so she seeks help.

The plot is well constructed with surprises and twists. The fantastic complex characters are ones that you want to see again. Only a few of the original Shadow series make an appearance but they are unforgettable too as they lend their advice to these tow main characters. As for Ellie and Cam’s relationship it is implied but this novella is more about the struggles that Ellie faces. What a wonderful interlude in the series.

The publisher/author gave me a complimentary ARC of the book which I voluntarily chose to read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Myria.
98 reviews3 followers
January 2, 2024
To grow up realising there is a part of you that doesn’t make sense or feel real is something most people disregard after not giving it much thought however for Ellie she grew up knowing that she was different that part of her life never made sense and that was because part of herself was out there in the world walking around showing her naked shadow body to the world causing mayhem and mischief all because Ellie had been born separated from her shadow.
After Ellie’s beloved grandmother passed away her shadow had become more adventurous and not in a good way hopefully with the help of the Segue institute who investigate shadow Ellie could be on her way having a normal life but what good is normal when she could have an extraordinary life with the potential of love in the future all she has to do is choose to be whole instead of separating herself from her shadow the two must join or Ellie’s life will end sooner than she thinks but when you’ve wanted to be separated from something your whole life can it really be that easy to just accept her other half and become whole again!! Guess we’ll have to sit and see what happens next!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Merissa (Archaeolibrarian).
4,192 reviews119 followers
January 4, 2024
SHADOW TOUCH is the first novella in the spin-off series from the Shadow series, so I would recommend you read that first as some of the characters do cross over.

This is a story that features new characters though - Ellie and Cam. Ellie has a problem with her shadow (think Peter Pan) and Cam is the doctor she hopes can help her. He works at the Segue Institute, trying to understand the workings of Shadow.

This is a novella so it is fast-paced and ends on a HFN note. I loved the story and can't wait to continue with the series. Definitely recommended by me.

** same worded review will appear elsewhere **

* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jan 4, 2024
Profile Image for Melanie.
3 reviews
January 10, 2024
I really enjoy Erin Kellison's books. They are fast reading, and the characters have a way of drawing you in and keeping you engaged. Take the main characters in this novella, Dr. Cam Kalamos and Ellie's predicament with her shadow. On one hand you are routing for her to get rid of her shadow, but if she does separate from her, will she be the same person or will her shadow rebel against her or have the same personality. Dr. Cam is just trying to understand what's going on and is trying to remedy the situation. I have been waiting for these novellas to be released for a while. I didn't start reading Erin's books until recently and couldn't find the Shadow Touched book which includes all the novellas. Happy reading.
1,383 reviews19 followers
February 29, 2024
So unique! I really enjoyed the idea of a shadow as a separate entity owning the passions of the physical being. I didn't know that this novella is part of a series although there were some parts that implied a history that I didn't know. Regardless, I really enjoyed this short story.
I liked the premise, the overall plot and the ending. My only con would be that the characters didn't develop enough depth. Perhaps, they would be more complete if I read the series.
I do recommend this novella to anyone looking for a unique and intriguing short read.
Profile Image for Shayay.
2,800 reviews55 followers
September 11, 2024
Interesting premise; Ellie has a shadow of her darker self that is a separate entity from Ellie’s body, this shadow is visible to others and has no filter; sort of like a ghost. This shadow/entity causes major strife in Ellie’s life, so she has asked for the help of a doctor of sorts. The help she expects isn’t exactly what she expected. Enjoyed it! Looking forward to the next one!
133 reviews1 follower
December 23, 2023
Erin has done it again. You are gripped by the story by the end of chapter one. I can’t think of anything scarier than having an uncontrollable dark persona with you every minute of the day. This is a novella with more to follow, I for one will be looking forward to the next gripping tale.
Profile Image for Karen Fisher.
1,277 reviews11 followers
December 21, 2023
This is a fast read filled with action. Ellie is unique and plagued by shadow. The challenges she faces are crazy. I enjoyed this book. Hope the next book in the series is coming soon.
Profile Image for Dhfan4life.
269 reviews10 followers
October 10, 2016
Great cover. But I wasn't all that into the story. As it felt like this was one of those stories that turned from paranormal to some top secret government situation. With a sprinkle of Fae and Angel stuff going on. So not quite my cup of tea.
Profile Image for Nicole.
1,535 reviews173 followers
June 24, 2011
Review originally posted here: http://thebookpushers.com/2011/06/23/...

Publisher: Zebra
Publish Date: Out Now!
How I got this book: eARC form author

Kellison is back with a short novella from her Shadow series. This story was jam packed with both action and romance, and a horribly embarrassing predicament for the heroine.

Ellie has lived her whole life in seclusion. She never got out and about, never left her home, never had the chance to interact with others. Why? Because her shadow was completely detached from her and embodied the dark impulses that Ellie had no chance of controlling. Unfortunately for Ellie, her shadow was always buck naked, always acting on whims and usually a little crazy. When she can’t take it anymore, Ellie does her research and finds someone who she thinks will be able to help her: a doctor at Segue.

Cam has been working his whole life for the chance to study the Shadow. When he gets a call from a woman who has read all his previous research he agrees to meet with her. Little does he know that she is actually split in two, her shadow occupying half of her soul and spirit. Cam isn’t sure that he can help her, but the more time they spend together, the more he realizes that he desperately WANTS to be able to help fix her problems, and keep her around for the long haul.

I have to say I was totally surprised by the premise of this story. I felt so sorry and embarrassed on Ellie’s behalf. At the same time, I was also somewhat blown away by the idea. I really liked Ellie’s character. She was so strong to have lived her entire life different from everyone, secluded away because of her shadow, and yet sadly resigned to live a life alone and depressed. It’s rare that a short novella can have a huge impact on me, but there were times when Ellie was talking about her struggles that brought tears to my eyes.

Cam was definitely not the typical kind of romance hero that I enjoy reading about. He’s a super nerd. He didn’t have many of the Alpha Hero qualities that usually make me swoon. That being said, I was impressed that Cam was so willing to go to bat for Ellie; especially after knowing her for just one short day, and especially since he was going to bat for her against a powerful force. Cam was genuine and caring and that really endeared him to me.

The novella takes place just over two short days, so the romance was pretty rushed. I was glad that there were no declarations of love between Cam and Ellie. Instead the two hinted at wanting to try and make it work. For me, that made their relationship more believable.

All in all, Kellison knocked this one out of the ballpark with a short, action packed, sexy novella that will have her Shadow fans begging for more. I give Shadow Touch a B+

Profile Image for Sharon.
396 reviews18 followers
May 7, 2011
http://ismellsheep.blogspot.com/2011/...

What is it about a story that separates it from the rest of the pack? As a reviewer, I have to decide how many Sheep to give a book (you got to admit, Sheep are way cooler than stars). Reviews are like…er, bellybuttons! Everyone has one. What does it for me, might not do it for you. That being said, Shadow Touch was one of those stories where the author nailed it for me.

Erin Kellison is a new author to me. She writes the Shadow Series (Shadow Bound, Shadow Fall, and coming this Sept. Shadowman). Shadow Touch is a novella coming out in June 1st and is the start of a new series featuring the characters Ellie and Cam (swoon worthy male). Shadow Touch is not part of the central story arc of the Shadow Series, but it ties in with the overall series.

The premise of the story is brilliant: What would happen if your shadow could act independently? Our heroine Ellie’s personality was split in two at birth and her impulsive, instinctual human nature manifested in her shadow. She is starting to lose control of her shadow and in an attempt to get help, she meets Cam (swoon, again). Cam is a scientist at a secret research facility of paranormal phenomenon called the Segue Institute.

Cam recently started working at the Segue Institute and is obsessed with learning all he can about “Shadow”. Shadow is the word for Fae magic from Kellison's Shadow Series. Cam is a smart, good looking (Kellison pictures Ian Somerhalder as Cam because of the eyes), and an all around good guy. He is torn between achieving his lifetime goals or possibly throwing it all away to help a woman he just met. How sexy is that?

What bumps this story from 4 to 5 Sheep for me is the voice of the author. Kellison was able to pull me into her characters minds, and therefore the story, quickly and completely. I guess you can say she had me at “hello”. It is a wonderful feeling, I can feel and see Ellie in my head so clearly. There is one part in the story where Ellie explains how desperate she became to get rid of her shadow and my heart broke for her. When an author can touch me emotionally with her characters, that is when I give 5 Sheep.

I can’t wait to try out Kellison’s Shadow Series and learn more about the world she has created and the people who live there.

*One more little detail I loved; the character Laurence, OMG, I am also going to add a “squee” here too. I so want to read more about him ;)

Check out Erin Kellison's website

Pre-order her book Shadow Touch, it is only $1.29!! Yeah, you read that right!

5 shadowy Sheep!

SS
Profile Image for Jackie Uhrmacher.
432 reviews22 followers
June 20, 2023
Ellie Russo is afraid of her shadow. I would be, too, if my shadow liked to run around naked in order to garner attention. You see, Ellie’s shadow has a mind, and incorporeal body, all her own. She’s the dark half, the one ruled by impulses and desires, two things Ellie’s never been able to indulge in, let alone be ruled by.
At her wit’s end, Ellie contacts scientist Cam Kalamos and pleads for his help. He’s a scientist at Segue, and researching Shadow is what he does best. Unfortunately for Ellie, Cam’s Shadow and hers are nothing alike, and if Ellie can’t learn to control her dark self, the big bad beings behind Segue will do the controlling for her.

Shadow Touch by Erin Kellison is a novella in her astounding Shadows series. It isn’t as much of a romance as the other books, focusing more on the phenomena of Ellie’s shadow acting as a separate self and introducing two characters I have a feeling we’ll see more of when the highly anticipated Shadowman releases in September. That isn’t to say romance is non-existent in Shadow Touch – Ellie and Cam have an instant connection and Ellie’s shadow self has a definite affinity for the scientist – it just isn’t the main focus.

I love the different directions Erin takes her characters and mythology. The effect the picture of the Shadowlands had on both sides of Ellie, and the promises of the things said after, have me on the edge of my seat for Shadowman. If you’re looking for a quick read to whet your appetite that is full of fantasy, mystery, and the dark part of ourselves, I highly recommend picking up Shadow Touch.
Profile Image for Melanie S.
1,841 reviews35 followers
February 29, 2024
Me and my shadow

The boundaries that once separated this world, the afterlife, and the shadows that divided the two have been weakened and frayed. Among other consequences, this peculiar one besets quiet, reclusive, uptight Ellie Russo: her shadow is no longer attached to her. Worse yet, it has a mind of its own, a self-centered, gregarious, and highly libidinous one at that. A shamed and desperate Ellie wants her shadow removed permanently, and contacts Dr. Cameron Kalamos of the Segue research team to help her. But he can't. The only solution to her torment involves forbidden angelic interference in human affairs, and a complete re-unification of Ellie and her rebellious shadow. Ellie won't hear of it. This involves more trust than she is willing to give, but the equally abhorrent alternative is eventual death. The oddly disembodied romance that progresses through this fraught struggle for total self-acceptance is the key to its resolution. Readers of Erin Kellison's Shadow World books will find this side novella powerfully touching. This is a voluntary, independent ARC review.
Profile Image for Jessica (a GREAT read).
1,855 reviews105 followers
June 5, 2011
Erin Kellison's Shadow Touch was another fun quick read! Have really been enjoying these e-books that are either prequels or "halfies". This is book 2.5 as it were, but I did read Shadowman prior to this one and everything was still okay since we looked at different characters once again.

While I liked this one, it didn't have the same faery tale feel to it. It wasn't as prevalent as it was in the previous novels, although it was still good.

Ellie has a Shadow that is separate from herself, her Shadow is kind of a pain and makes her life miserable. She goes to Segue in hopes that they could help her. But there are certain circumstances to the situation and getting rid of the Shadow will not be easy, especially since the Shadow has a mind of her own.

Shadow Touch was a quick read (had a busy weekend, hence why it took 2 days to read it!) that brings you back to the Kellison's world and introduces characters that haven't been main characters before. It was quite interesting! And it is currently on sale at Amazon for .99! What a deal! Click here or on the book title to go to the Amazon page!
Profile Image for Cherry Mischievous.
597 reviews290 followers
January 12, 2012
Review:
I like this author's voice. It reads smoothly. It also makes the reading pace quite quick. And since this is a short story, it makes this book a one-sitting read. So if you are looking for a quick good read, this book is perfect for you. Even though this is just a short story, it managed to be well structured, with well-developed world and really good plot building. This is not something most short stories achieve, so kudos to Ms. Kellison!!

This ebook is also part of a series. But you do not have to read the previous books to be able to follow the story. There are two books before this one, yet despite that there is brilliant world building to be readable on its own. If you are looking to sample this author's work, this ebook is a good place to start. If you didn't like it, you won't loose much since the kindle price is cheap for this one. But I doubt you will regret buying it. In fact I think the price is a bit too cheap for an excellent work such as this one.


Empirical Evaluation:
Story telling quality = 4.5
Character development = 4
Story itself = 4.5
Ending = 4.5
World building = 5
Cover art = 4
Pace = 5

Overall Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Profile Image for James Wilcox.
Author 7 books92 followers
October 3, 2011
I picked this book up because I was intrigued by the story's premise; the idea that someone's shadow, the "dark half" of their personality, could take a physical form separate from, but attached to that person. This is exactly the situation Ellie finds herself in and is the reason she approaches Dr. Cam at the Seque Institute for help. The premise is interesting and the book is well written and fast-paced, but I was disappointed in Shadow Touch because everything seems to easy. Ellie's shadow quickly falls in "lust" with Cam, Cam falls in love with Ellie, and Ellie falls in love with Cam in only a matter of hours and days. All three characters make life changing decisions based on their new found feelings. I realize that this is a novella, but there was not nearly enough explanation of the magic forces involved in the story, although I am interested in reading more about the fae and the shadowland only hinted at in Shadow Touch. This is one of those cases where less isn't necessarily more. This story needed more back-story and more character development. I would give it three and a half stars if that were an option, instead of just three.
Profile Image for Melissa.
1,007 reviews35 followers
July 3, 2012
Although this novella is #2.5, it really is an offshoot of the main series. This one we are introduced to Cam and Ellie. One is a scientist and the other is desperately seeking help. She has an unusual problem. Her Shadow is separate from the rest of her. Still a part of her, but able to act on it's own. She captures the attention of the scientist she sought out for help and he ends up falling for the woman with the unusual problem.

This is a quick read and fun. You could read it as a stand a lone, but I don't suggest you do. The world has already been established for you and that allows the book to take off for the reader. It also brings a question for you... what would you do if the id part of yourself was separate and in full view of everyone you meet? Could you handle that unfettered part of yourself? I'm so not going there in my review (sorry.. heh) but I think Ellie did a great job of handling the situation.

I give this novella 4 stars. It's a great introduction to these characters in the Shadow world.
Profile Image for Anna.
497 reviews167 followers
May 23, 2011
Ellie has a bit of a problem she has a shadow with her 24/7 A much darker version of herself. With no concerns whatsoever... the shadow is a bit of a trouble maker and quite cheeky. So, Ellie seeks out the Seque Institute for help.

This story thoroughly pulled me in. It's been a while since reading the last book, so it was nice venturing back into the world of Shadow. A quick, but thralling read. Shadow Touch was a great story, a bit different than the previous books. I love Kellison's voice and the darkness to the story. If you have enjoyed the first two books in this series you won't want to miss Ellie & Cam's story.
Profile Image for Jamie Welch.
138 reviews10 followers
August 19, 2011
Erin Kellison has become a favorite of mine, I just love the way she tells a story. This is a great short story that reads like a full book packed into just a few pages. I loved the characters Ellie and Cam. Even though this is a short one, the characters are deep and you grow fond of them all the same. The ending is a little abrupt but, it makes me feel like we have not seen the end of Cam and Ellie. I think maybe that this little diddy was just to introduce them to us, or at least I hope. Also, the last 7 pages or so are a preview of the next book and I just can't wait for that one as well. It starts off so sad, but that is Kathleen's story. I can't wait for the next book!
Profile Image for Nawnee.
198 reviews11 followers
March 20, 2012
I accidently read this short story before reading any of the larger series, on a good note it ruins none of the series for you it just made me really interested in the side characters that help the main characters figure out what going on. I ended up buying the three books of the series as soon as I was done with this short story and finished them all in two days. I highly recommend you try this series it.unique story line just gets more intriguing the further you dive into this world. Plus she has another short coming out in a few months that has these same characters in it so it looks like we will get some closure on their story soon.
Profile Image for Kelly at.
1,145 reviews13 followers
May 26, 2012
This was my first Shadow story that I have read. And I really enjoyed the world that Erin has created. I will be honest it took me a little bit to understand what the world was about (need to go back and read the 1st 2 books). But I really loved Ellie's story.

Poor girl has struggled all her life, been so alone, and when she finally reaches out for help she gets treated like a freak.

Thanks goodness for good guys and angels right?

Well that is all I am going to tell you. If you want to know what happens you will just have to go pick up a copy for yourself.

:)
I know I am evil like that.
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