Librarian's note: This is an alternate cover edition for ASIN B00A1X69X8.
‘Only her love can restore his trust—only with his trust can she win her battle.’
Kilter, an immortal Senses Visionary, excels at being rude and crass with little hope of finding peace after being betrayed and tortured by his brother more than a hundred years ago. Reckless and stubborn he has alienated everyone—just the way he likes it. Until the day he meets Rayne and emotions he buried long ago are reawakened.
Rayne suffers from Anorexia Nervosa. Trapped by debilitating thoughts and a false sense of control, Rayne is slowly dying. Her husband has kept her secluded and alone for years, causing her to withdraw into an emotionless shell. But Rayne’s outward behaviour is deceiving for beneath her delicate existence is a woman with strength. The trouble is—can she find that part of herself that has been driven away? Or has her cruel husband broken her fragile existence?
The two tortured souls are brought together only to be torn apart and forced to relive their horrific pasts in order to find salvation. But Rayne’s past has more significance than the Senses realize and their enemies will do anything in order to get her back.
The Senses are in for one hell of a fight as Waleron is forced to make the hardest decision of his life—Damien is tortured beyond his emotional capability by the witch Abigail—and Delara is drawn into a vampire’s arms only to have him use her darkest secret against her.
(Not a stand alone. JUMP is the first book in the series.) 110,000 words
I have mixed emotions about this book. On the one hand I think it was excellent. So many things, mind boggling, shocking, heartbreaking things, occur in this book. But I still CAN'T give this one the 5 Stars that I wanted to cos of one important factor... There was hardly any Kilter & Rayne together in this one. WHY?!
This book was all over the place. But everything flowed well for what was occurring within the story. Things happened at the right times. The growth that had to happen with Rayne in order for her to be ready to embrace Kilter & his love for her & return it, all of this was done superbly. The pacing of the story was excellent and it was all believable. Rayne's journey was quite heartbreaking & I am so proud of how she handled things & so overjoyed to see where she landed.
Kilter's journey was just as touching & I loved to see the growth of him accepting what was there for him all along with his Senses Brothers & Sisters, but also what he ultimately deserved with Rayne.
The way Waleron, Delara, Damien, Abby, their dilemmas & issues & what was happening with the villains surrounding them, was beyond incredible... SHOCKING! as well. And the action in this one? On point. I do have one issue with Abby in this though. And if you read it, you'll know exactly what I'm talking about. What landed her in her predicament in the 1st place is a MAJOR PLOT HOLE... Not good. Or at least it appears to look this way. I get the feeling all will make sense in time with this. But everything else that occurs here because of it,is great.
Now back to Kilter & Rayne, again where were they Ms. Paterson? I was not at all happy about the lack of intensity we are promised from the set up of such a character like Kilter & his possible relationship with someone like Rayne. I saw beautiful glimpses of what a dynamic like these two could be, but I didn't see anything that needed to be shown that left me warm, fuzzy, & happily exhausted. Where was it? They were a complete tease overall. And all the buildup, all that we go through (other plots unfolding etc..) to get to their 1st & only REAL present tense "Encounter" we get only a PG rated fade to black scene? This was so me when that sh*t occurred or didn't occur, I should say... And this is why this book was not a 5 star for me.
Public Service Announcement To ALL AUTHORS: DO NOT PLACE PREVIEWS OR ALLUDE TO CERTAIN HAPPENINGS IN YOUR STORY/ PLOTS THAT THE READERS WILL NOT SEE IN THE ACTUAL BOOK! Thank you :)
I still would certainly recommend this read, obviously & this series. Just take care & heed this warning, that just cos you're set on fire doesn't always mean you're gonna be hosed down properly...
This series just keeps getting better and better. I really liked the first book. I loved the second book. I have so much to say, but I don't want to spoil anything so I'll keep it short.
Off-Kilter never got Rayne out of his mind, nor could he shake the guilt over having left her behind to face the wrath of her husband, Anton. Her freedom should have been a welcome relief, but it only brings along a whole set of other problems. My heart broke for Rayne. Her sickness was slowly killing her, and she welcomed it. After all, what did she have to live for? And then there's Kilter. He's a complex being all on his own with his own demons, but he has his heart in the right place. He's crass, rude, blunt, no nonsense, and distrustful. But something about Rayne makes protective instincts rise to the fore front. Something completely foreign to him. It does seem like he tries to find salvation and perhaps redemption by doing everything in his power to save her from herself.
I loved this pairing. They were both equally wounded souls yet they each possessed something the other needed. Acceptance, understanding, and compassion. They both know what betrayal and pain feels like. Kilter doesn't sugar coat and he doesn't say something he doesn't mean. Rayne learns that she needs to express her thoughts and feelings honestly, so really they match up pretty well. The timeline and their path to something more was well paced and took their healing into consideration. I found myself being impressed by Rayne's inner strength to no longer be a victim of her circumstances.
If you haven't read the first book, you will get lost. In STEP, there are two other subplots to follow – the Waleron/Delara drama and Damien and Abby. This story definitely couldn't do without them because they're integral in pushing the story forward and set up book #3. Waleron …. I love him and I hate him. There's no way around it. Every time he was around Delara, my heart broke for her a little bit more. The twist at the end took me completely by surprise. Now I'm left to wait and wonder what will become of Delara. As for Damien and Abby – the author kept me in a perpetual state of weeping. There is A LOT to take in, but by the end of the book, it was all worth it.
If you love paranormal romance, you have to read this series. It's definitely one of my favorites of 2012.
Disclaimer: I received a copy from the author. A review in exchange was not promised.
The Senses return with a vengeance with this novel, the 2nd instalment in Paterson’s Senses series. Her fluid writing draws you in right from the get-go and doesn’t loosen its grip until you’ve hit the last page. Paterson writes with such a natural use of the English language and such eloquent descriptions that you feel like you’re watching a movie rather than reading a novel.
I really appreciate how Paterson develops the various supernatural races, species, and being throughout the novel. They are extremely well developed throughout while keeping up with this fast paced novel. I also like how Paterson presents eating disorders within this novel. She tackles a very difficult and troublesome topic with tact and grace. There is a great deal of information on the topic worked into the story and Paterson goes a long way to show how one can approach the subject.
The characters that Paterson has developed for this novel, and for the series as a whole, are phenomenal. Not only is each character individually developed, be they the main character of the novel or simply part of the Talde, but they are also loveable in their own right. Paterson has brought for a very diverse cast that has something for everyone to enjoy. I love the fact that the characters names are short, unique, to the point, and fit each character perfectly.
Overall, this was a phenomenal read that I couldn’t put down, even for a second. It was a phenomenal follow up to Jump, and although this novel could definitely be read as a standalone, I’d suggest reading Jump first as it contains some relevant background information. Also, have a copy of Fall on hand when you finish because you won’t want to let these characters go.
Please note that I received this novel free of charge from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Kay before we jump (there is a pun there) into this (and i giggle like a fool cause its HILARIOUS) also if you don't understand my horrible attempt at humor, the first book of this series is called Jump so if you haven't read it, go ahead and do that. And this review will contain spoilers from the FIRST book not for THIS one, so if you haven't read the first one and you don't want know anything form that one then stop reading this. Kay? kay. (Also i know in the first book there was one sex scene, in this one there is the beginning of one but doesn't go into detail..damn i know but it still good ;) so that is all)
So Song choice: Usually i will pick one or two songs to describe something about the book, or overall theme, or tone, or whatever. But this since book was dealing with three different couples, and one of the couples is an extension from the first book there is that... anyways i have three songs one for each of the couples, and one last song. so for Kilter+Rayne: "I Wasn't Prepared" by Eisley, for Damien+Abby: "Naked As We Come" by Iron&Wine, and for Delara+Waleron (the couple from last book that was like on the side): "Smile" by Lily Allen (also they get an additional song because they need more than one: "All These Things That I've Done" by the Killers. And for the over all song for all three of these, which if you know any of my other reviews, i use this song a lot but i really love it and it just works... "I Know You Care" by Ellie Goulding.
So first gushing moments... i mean thoughts...: Honestly i think that i liked this one better than the first book. I think that this book was a lot more raw, it dealt with things that people rather shy away from, it was emotionally painful (in a good way...) I felt for these characters, It was just soo good. and at first i will admit i was a little annoyed that we weren't dealing with one couple completely focused on them, but at first i was okay with Kilter+Rayne, and Delara+Waleron- because Delara and Waleron had been in the last book as the side couple as well, so i didn't mind that but then adding another, i was like seriously? But then when i read their chapters and their stories I WAS LIKE FUCK IT I LOVE IT. Alright so For my first thoughts on the book ( i was get carried away here) Beautiful love stories, all ranging from heart-wretchingly painful, to heart-breakingly wonderful.
Plot: I know in the first thoughts i was all like ROMANCE! well okay so let me get set the record straight, THERE IS ACTION don't walk away from thinking this is a standing still story of falling in love because its not. And don't walk away because its an action packed, no time for romance book because it also is not. It is a lovely mix of both. Its a story about a girl who had been abused, and tortured, and captive for most of all her life growing, and changing, its about secrets, and a pending war. There is so much in this book that it won't let you get bored for more than a second then its cutting you off to someone's problems so you get to sit in steam about that for i don't know seconds before you are totally engrossed in whoever's chapter it is. The pacing, amazing. The story, even better. The twists in the book, sure i figured it out a little before they revealed it, but before that i was totally in the dark, didn't even see it, i think maybe someone might be able to catch it but i didn't i was to into the story that i didn't even care. I wanted to read through this all night long but i was sooo sleepy, but i woke bright and early to finish and nothing was stopping me! NOTHING...well thats a lie, food did, and an evil puppy who thinks its only like 10 pounds when its more like 100, yeah my puppy is a little fat...hehehe anyways not the point. PLOT? Aamzing, i personally thing a little better than the first, there as more in this, and really that is a personal choice.
Characters: (now there are quite a few so bare with me here)
Well before i go into each character, i want to say this first so i don't repeat myself a 100 times over, i always think people need to be super cautious when dealing with a whole lot of MCs, and different "stories" in one book, or even a series, why you ask? because its common, more common than i like but it happens, characters from one author tend to become like each other, and they have the same characteristics, personality wise, THANK GOD this was not the case in Cindy Paterson's books. There were a few things yeah they seemed a little similar but each character was different, with their own story, their own personality. And UHH-AMAZING
Rayne: Now Rayne has some serious problems, and she was one of the characters that it might be difficult for people to read about. I don't do a lot of contemp. fiction - again if you know any of my reviews, you know this for a fact i say it all the time - so i don't come across a lot of "mortal".. "human".../"mundane" problems such as eating disorders. But from what i read in this i thought it hit it right spot on. And dealt with it beautifully, this isn't a two day change around kids. Growth is gradual for Rayne but it does happen and i loved every moment of it. i loved to see her starting to speak out, and become more than scared out of her mind. She as a hard MC to love but it was only because you wanted the best for her and she wasn't seeing what she was doing to herself, at first, then it was hard not to love her. She was selfless, courageous, and admittedly she did do one stupid thing but i love it when characters do that, well most of the time, it depends because i know it needs to happen for something more to happen in the book. But she was amazing i loved her and yay! she was very raw...and i know i saw the word "raw" a lot but that is the best way to describe these characters and situations.
Kilter: Rayne's man. Now these two met in the last book, while Kilter was trying to save Ryker which he did, but he had to leave Rayne behind. He promised that he would either kill her or help her escape, and he did neither. It has been torturing him for sometime so he goes back to save her. Though he is in denial for the first few, couple of characters its okay we can all see how much he cares. He is crude, crass, sometimes i just wanted to slap him and be like, dude some compassion maybe? but i knew that wasn't his way, and in the strangest ass way i respected that. i really liked him, because he did have another side, and we do learn why he is the way he is, and its understandable. Anyways he does act differently with Rayne he tries. And its obvious that he has a character change as well, maybe not as drastic as Rayne but he does. Man i really did love him. Again he too was raw, real, and unconventional
Let me see i might have a favorite Kilter Line or two...
"She was an angel, and he was the devil ready to break her from the magnificence." This is just a line about these two that i loved... "It was obvious they were both unaccustomed to tenderness." Kay so that was Kilter...LOVED HIM
Damien: We also met him last book, he is a bit of a well an ass, i think that he might be worst then Kilter to be honest...actually if i am being honest, he was. But there is the strangest thing i fell in love with him. God how do you describe the biggest assholes, not like a tool asshole like... JB but like asshole like Dean from Supernatural. He openly hates women, he actually seemingly openly hates everyone. But particularly women. But his and Abby's love story had me wanting to crawl into a corner and cry until my eyes bled, and my heart would just be torn from my chest. So to say the least their love was horrifying, it was the worst pain you can imagine, but in the end it was something that i wanted so badly to cheer for. In his few moments of compassion, in those moments he shared with only Abby and us, i felt like i was intruding. I wanted to look away to give them privacy, but couldn't at the same time... here is one part that i love beyond love...
oh there were soo many so i am going to do two:
"He leaned his forehead onto her arm, his grip on her hand tightening, afraid to let go, terrified that if he did, she’d slip from his grasp forever."
"Damien inched closer to the bed, needing to feel her, needing to hear her voice, feel her hand resting on his chest. Once more. That was all he needed. Just one more time."
Abby: is a free-spirited, fun loving, witch with a problem. Now i can't go into much about Abby without giving out spoilers about later in the book. But know she was fun, and loving and I knew one thing for certain about her. She loves Damien even though most people don't want to get within a five foot radius of him.
Delara: Has been keeping some secrets. And she is spiraling faster in this book than she did the in the first one. Each moment when she was with Waleron, i felt her pain. I wanted so badly for everything she did, and i wanted her to punch him at the same time.
Waleron: Was cold as ever. He had moments when he was so, so, so close to just doing exactly what i wanted him to do. But i suppose as in the last book we will have to continue to wait.
So my interests now lie in Galen, he seems to be the forgotten Sense and i want more of him! I want his story very soon. Don't know why he intrigues me so much but he does. Oh and Quill who we meet in the beginning of the book, and that is the last of him we see but i have this thing about boys and explosives....
So yes i will continue on with this series, silly billys! As i think you should as well.
So as last time...if you happen to stumble across my review for the first book in this series. I have a um..well i have a blog. there i said it. Go ahead hate me i don't care. Honestly no one ever uses these links but if you have read this and the last one that has come out and you are looking for something else to read, i and my friend mostly do indie authors not always but mostly. so you should if you desire so come check us out. http://theviolethourbookreviews.wordp...
Ha, at least I was smart enough not to start reading this second book at eleven at night.
Once again, you have have a well-structured world with well-developed characters and a whole lot of action and drama.
After reading Jump, I had to read this book the following day. I couldn't help it. After the interaction between Rayne and Kilter, it was a necessity for me to find out how these two would end up together.
And I can't help myself. I loved Kilter. He's crude, rude, and really a bit of a bastard to absolutely everyone except Rayne. He's protective of her and determined to see her well. To be honest, he was just the type hero Rayne needed in her tragic life. Even though, she's hard-pressed to step (ha, get it) outside of her shell and open up (with good reason), she saw through all his direct, abrasive mannerisms and speech. I loved the bond formed between these two.
And revelations.. this book had a couple that took my by surprise. With one in particular, it's sort of like I could feel, yes feel, that it might head in that direction, but I thought to myself, "Nah, there's just no way." Then BAM! I gasped and my mouth dropped open.
So, yeah, Cindy Paterson has become one of my pre-order authors now. And my final thought is.. why, oh why must I wait so flipping long for book three. I HAVE to know what's going to happen next with a few secondary characters.
Cindy Paterson’s “Step”—book two in “The Senses” series—is an emotional exploration of the sensuous, treacherous, and often deadly paranormal world of the Senses. Paterson continues the multiple storylines created in book one; however, her voice in “Step” is much darker and more resonant than in “Jump”, which allows her to connect more deeply with her characters. Paterson demonstrates her growth as an author between her two books in her ability to tackle tough issues with grace and tenacity while still conveying a story that is provoking, entertaining, and captivating. Unlike “Jump”, “Step” is not a lively romance, but an earthy reflection of human nature in love, lust, hate, betrayal, and forgiveness. Paterson makes the laws of actions and reactions positively magnetic…you will want to “Step” right back into her world of the Senses.
After reading book one of the Senses(Jump) I was intrigued about the next book in the series and couldn't help myself but find out and boy am I over the moon glad I did!! Step is outstanding and by far takes the story to another level.This story picks up where Jump left off and we get to find out about Rayne and Kilter.Plus we learn more about Delara and Waleron and I'm here to tell you the plot is super juicy with secrets revealed and also leaves you with more questions to be answered.Cindy Paterson writes in a way that slowly pulls you in and before you know what is happening you are hooked!!Step so far is my favorite of her books,But there is also her newest edition of the senses series, Fall to look forward to!!
I liked this book, but I wish we would have had a bit more time with Rayne and Kilter. The book seemed to focus more on Damien and Abby (whom I really like and look forward to their story) and a bit about Waleron and Delara (whom I LOVE and really look forward to their story). I wish though that the book didn't go into such great detail about the other characters...seems weird to say- but all in all, I didn't feel that Kilter and Rayne got their full story told. It was choppy in some parts. However, with that being said, I am a fan and I will definitely be reading future books from this author! :)
ABSOLUTELY AMAZING! Cindy Paterson has done it again with her second title in the Senses Series. This book has twists and turns that I have found in no other. Just when you think you have figured it out, you go racing down a new path. This is more than a romance. Taboo topics with underlying pain that is so real that only a survivor could write. Thank you so much for this journey of love, pain, triumph, betrayal, redemption...the list is neverending of the emotions I have felt in reading this book. My only complaint is waiting for the next! So kudos to you Miss Cindy and to your Senses, I AM THOROUGHLY HOOKED!
Oh kilter, how I love you. Cindy Paterson did it again. This storyline continues to amaze and delight me. I love all of the senses. This book was purely wonderful. Action, fear, love, it was wonderful. Cindy is one of my favorite writers, she is a fabulous story teller and provides all the right amounts of everything that makes a book absolutely amazing. I loved Rayne and Kilter so much and am looking forward to reading the rest of the senses stories. Step as well as the first book, Jump, are definitely books you need to pick up,and devour asap!
Wow! Cindy Paterson really followed up Jump with Step! Who knew Kilter could be so sweet? The way he takes care of Rayne is so unbelievably....sweet. You can't help but root for Rayne also. You want her to succeed in getting over her disease, and triumph each step of the way along her journey. You feel her longing for Kilter and feel his fierce determination to love and protect her. It really is a kick ass, lovely story. I CANNOT wait for book #3. I'll be one of the first in line to get it and devour it!
The first book in this series introduced a few couples and a bit of torture. I had hoped this book would be a continuation of those same characters. To my surprise a few new ones were added in, and I loved each new addition more. This book intertwines so many relationships that at times I felt it could be a real family. I enjoyed this read, and am tapping my foot waiting for the May 7 release of "Fall". Cindy I loved your books, and can't wait to read the next in the series! Thanks for all the entertainment.
Wow, great story. Can't wait for the next one. You really need to read Jump before you start this book. I loved reading about all the characters and that they all add to the story. It was a great story and I loved seeing Rayne find her strength.
I enjoyed reading both the books in the Senses series....You will find romance,action, Its a fast paced read that does not disappoint....I wanted more Kilter.....yummy! Can not wait for the next book in this series.
Cindy's book definitely was everything I expected it to be. Her detail to the characters draws you in. I can't wait to read the third book. Hope she continues with the series.
The Senses return with a vengeance with this novel, the 2nd instalment in Paterson’s Senses series. Her fluid writing draws you in right from the get-go and doesn’t loosen its grip until you’ve hit the last page. Paterson writes with such a natural use of the English language and such eloquent descriptions that you feel like you’re watching a movie rather than reading a novel.
I really appreciate how Paterson develops the various supernatural races, species, and being throughout the novel. They are extremely well developed throughout while keeping up with this fast paced novel. I also like how Paterson presents eating disorders within this novel. She tackles a very difficult and troublesome topic with tact and grace. There is a great deal of information on the topic worked into the story and Paterson goes a long way to show how one can approach the subject.
The characters that Paterson has developed for this novel, and for the series as a whole, are phenomenal. Not only is each character individually developed, be they the main character of the novel or simply part of the Talde, but they are also loveable in their own right. Paterson has brought for a very diverse cast that has something for everyone to enjoy. I love the fact that the characters names are short, unique, to the point, and fit each character perfectly.
Overall, this was a phenomenal read that I couldn’t put down, even for a second. It was a phenomenal follow up to Jump, and although this novel could definitely be read as a standalone, I’d suggest reading Jump first as it contains some relevant background information. Also, have a copy of Fall on hand when you finish because you won’t want to let these characters go.
Please note that I received this novel free of charge from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This is the second book in the series and I enjoyed it just as much as the first. Cindy Paterson is a skilled storyteller who writes a different kind of Paranormal Romance. The Senses are paranormal beings whose duty it is to protect humans from other paranormal beings like Vampire, Lilacs, & other nasty creatures that like to prey on humanity. There are Trackers, Visionaries, Sounders, Reflections, & probably some I don’t know or am forgetting. They all have different abilities but the one thing they have in common is they all have a “familiar” or Scar as they are called. Each ones different but all seem to be quite fierce when called upon.
This story is about several couples although it is mostly about Rayne & Kilter (or Off-Kilter as he is often referred to). Kilter rescues Rayne from her abusive husband & takes her back to the house where the Toronto based Senses live. She is very sick, on the verge of dying & he is VERY protective of her. I really don’t want to go too heavily into their story because I don’t want to give anything away. But it is a really great story & there is a HUGE surprise towards the end of the book.
The other main couple in this book is Damien & Abigail. And theirs is a tragic story. If Kilter is rough around the edges then Damien is like sandpaper. But he does have a soft spot for Abby. She somehow gets under his skin & they have a one-night stand. But something happens to bring them back together & Damien ends up having to care for Abby for a while.
Well, if you want to know more then I suggest you read the book. It is well worth it but please read JUMP first as there is much in this book that is set up in the first. I recommend this book & I will be reading the next one, FALL.
(Cindy gave me copies of Jump and Step so I'm caught up on the series to edit the third, Fall. I didn't intend to review them, nor did she ask me to.)
...but I'm reviewing this because it's a damn good book and my favorite in the series so far. Jump introduced us to characters (and read it first before reading this), but Step takes those characters and puts them through hell. HELL.
I forget the name of the author who said, "What's the worst things that can happen to these people? I'll write that," but I swear she and Cindy talk because these poor Senses and witches and other paranormal-gifted people are just put through traumatic events. And it rocks.
When you're an avid reader, novels rarely surprise you. Foreshadowing is seen and secrets are guessed chapters before they're revealed--that's just how it is.
Step handed me my ass and said thanks for reading. I was floored in the best way.
Not as intense as Jump, though Kitler is pretty scary and annoying in his own way haha. In this 2nd book we focus on Rayne who spent her all life controlled and tortured and Kitler who doesn't trust or need anyone but who is haunted by the memory of leaving her. The two of them are quite a couple. Both scarred and struggling emotionally, they come out so much stronger. And we get a few very good surprises. The only bad point I would have to give is that it is not centred enough on them but on all characters instead. We are actually following 3 couples instead of one and so, enjoying it a bit less in my opinion. However, this is still a great read and I cannot wait to read the 3rd book.
Loved it. Kilters and Raynes story was both heartbreaking ,frustrating,sweet and perfect all at the same time .I so disliked Kilter from book one but knew there had to be a reason behind his behaviour .Add in Abbey and Damian and I was blubbing all over the place.Running through all the books is Delara and Walerons story and you begin to realise what amazing value these books are .So rich in content and brilliantly written .Like three great romances in one *sigh*
I enjoyed this book more than I did the first. It seemed to have a better flow through out and had me captured. Read the whole thing in two sittings. Loved the love story and different twist and turns. The ending had me excited to move on to the next in the series. A very good written sequel.
Ok definitely enjoyed this book a lot better. I am a sucker for the tough badass and the lady who can take him down. This book kept me reading and I always enjoy that. Again not real saucy, but I loved the story. On to book #3 Waleron/Delara
So many things going on! Keep hoping for Waleron to give in to his love for Delara! Will he ever quit being an Ass??? He's really pissing me off! Loving Kilter! I would take his overbearing self any day! He can definitely tell me what to do!