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The Equinox Pact #1
Awakening
HE’S VOWED TO PROTECT HER…EVEN FROM HIMSELF.
ALL SHE WANTED WAS TO SURVIVE SENIOR YEAR.
The island of Dawnhaven has a population of 100 and it’s in the middle of nowhere, i.e., off the coast of Northern Maine. If Taylor can just make it through senior year and survive living with her wicked stepmother, she’ll be free, once and for all…
BUT THEN SHE MEETS THIS GUY.
James Champlain is tall and strapping, with a square jaw. Taylor’s thrilled to discover that in addition to his looks, James is charming, funny and kind. She’s increasingly drawn to him, but…
WHAT’S WITH ALL THE RUMORS?
People say strange things about James—that he takes his boat out on secretive missions at all hours of the night, that the steady stream of visitors to his estate are disciples of some sort of pagan “institute.” Although Taylor doesn’t believe it, James does claim he can read peoples’ auras. But does that make him a cult leader? And does he want to date her, or just recruit her?
AND WHAT’S THAT THING IN THE WOODS?
There’s something dark in the island woods, something dangerous. When Taylor encounters it, she learns that not only James is not what he appears, nothing is.
ALL SHE WANTED WAS TO SURVIVE SENIOR YEAR.
The island of Dawnhaven has a population of 100 and it’s in the middle of nowhere, i.e., off the coast of Northern Maine. If Taylor can just make it through senior year and survive living with her wicked stepmother, she’ll be free, once and for all…
BUT THEN SHE MEETS THIS GUY.
James Champlain is tall and strapping, with a square jaw. Taylor’s thrilled to discover that in addition to his looks, James is charming, funny and kind. She’s increasingly drawn to him, but…
WHAT’S WITH ALL THE RUMORS?
People say strange things about James—that he takes his boat out on secretive missions at all hours of the night, that the steady stream of visitors to his estate are disciples of some sort of pagan “institute.” Although Taylor doesn’t believe it, James does claim he can read peoples’ auras. But does that make him a cult leader? And does he want to date her, or just recruit her?
AND WHAT’S THAT THING IN THE WOODS?
There’s something dark in the island woods, something dangerous. When Taylor encounters it, she learns that not only James is not what he appears, nothing is.
482 pages, Paperback
First published May 21, 2020
1540 people are currently reading
2880 people want to read
About the author
Leigh Walker
25 books255 followersLeigh Walker lives on the gorgeous coast of Maine with her awesome husband, their beautiful kids, and her BFF, Choco the chocolate lab. Her smash-hit series Vampire Royals was previously optioned by Netflix. Leigh also writes Billionaire Romance as USA Today and Amazon Top-Ten Bestselling Author Leigh James. Her books have been translated into German, Italian, French, and Portuguese.
Outside of writing and family, her interests include maintaining a sense of humor, reading, sucking at golf, and lifting weights.
www.leighwalkerbooks.com
Outside of writing and family, her interests include maintaining a sense of humor, reading, sucking at golf, and lifting weights.
www.leighwalkerbooks.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 159 reviews
April 30, 2021
DNF @ p.92
Well, this was a mess. I mean, I've just read 15 chapters and I'm already cringing.
My mood was like
In summary, Taylor is the new girl in an island (i forgot the island's name). She went to live with her fater, her mom died six months ago and she has to spend her senior year living with her lovely father, and oh, with Taylor's bitchy stepmom and her spoiled stepsister. On her first day in the island, Taylor stares like an idiot to this gazillionare (I didn't even know that this word existed tbh) guy who is "really hot" and has a boat.
Taylor has no personality. I mean it. She's like the good flat girl who thinks she's flawless. Also, we have no physical description of her, not even when Taylor's looking herself in the mirror, but in the cover, she's blonde, just like her stepmom and stepsister. Taylor's mom died of an overdose and moved on with her dad. Her stepmom, Becky, hates her and you can really see it from the beginning; Taylor insinuates that Becky and Amelia (her stepsister) are jealous that Taylor's father, Kyle, loves Taylor more than Becky and Amelia.
Becky and Amelia are superficial af. I mean, Taylor describes them as the typical 'blonde tan bitch' who drinks martinis, wine, scroll down her phone 24/7, has expensive clothes than wears only one time (how, in the name of the gods, can people do that? I'm poor af and I'm used to wear the same clothes for years perhaps), has this big ass mansion, a good car, a club with other rich and drunk women, yada, yada, yada. Becky criticizes Taylor a lot, she says mean stuff about Taylor and Taylor acts like "well, yeah, it hurts, but I can't do anything because I'm her guest and I won't tell daddy because they will fight for me and I don't want that either". I mean, girl, stand up and defend yourself; you're so fucking bland. Becky and Amelia only exist in order to make our speshul girl look like she's a heroin (which she's not), and an innocent girl.
As a normal YA father, Kyle is not present so much in this book. I mean, he only appears when Becky is in scene or to apologize for "not being a good father", for not being with her before when her mom was getting high and all that stuff.
James is a creepy old guy. I mean, in the cover of the other two books, James looks like he's 30 years old, and not 21. I mean, he's inmortal and has like 200 years (again, the tiring trope of the +100 years old guy with the 17 years old girl), and falls for Taylor within 10 days. Just like Taylor, James has no description beyond the blue-gray eyes and square jaw *rolls eyes*. He's weird as fuck and he does more weird stuff. He's gazillionare, has like 10 houses, 100 boats and who knows what else more.
The pacing was really slow and maybe that's what made me dnf this book. Or perhaps the fact that looked like a version of Twilight in 2020.
Taylor, Bella, Mary Sue, is obsessed with James, Edward, and I have some evidence.
And then, she pretends like she's not obsessed with James.
And, I don't know, this was like ???? to me, because they've just had two days of meeting each other, but
ALSO, WE HAVE A FEMINIST JAMES.
Then, Taylor hears the doorbell ringing, but, surprise! There's no one outside, and suddenly:
And moments later.
Now, 3 days after met, James goes with this:
In her job, Taylor does nothing else but trying to not to look her drinks and spill them off her tray, which makes me bored, yikes.
Well, this was boring, I must admit it. I thought it was going to be a fast pacing, but no. It was more Becky and Amelia talking about Taylor at "her back", and plot twist, Taylor was listening and feeling like crap, but everytime James appeared, the feeling was gone.
Some sort of Twilight, but the werewolves were missing.
Also, fall in love within ten days (I guess, lmao)????????????
Yeah, I will not bother myself reading the other books, yikes. I said I was in the mood for something bad like this, but this book was beyond that.
Thanks for coming to my ted talk!
Well, this was a mess. I mean, I've just read 15 chapters and I'm already cringing.
My mood was like
In summary, Taylor is the new girl in an island (i forgot the island's name). She went to live with her fater, her mom died six months ago and she has to spend her senior year living with her lovely father, and oh, with Taylor's bitchy stepmom and her spoiled stepsister. On her first day in the island, Taylor stares like an idiot to this gazillionare (I didn't even know that this word existed tbh) guy who is "really hot" and has a boat.
Taylor has no personality. I mean it. She's like the good flat girl who thinks she's flawless. Also, we have no physical description of her, not even when Taylor's looking herself in the mirror, but in the cover, she's blonde, just like her stepmom and stepsister. Taylor's mom died of an overdose and moved on with her dad. Her stepmom, Becky, hates her and you can really see it from the beginning; Taylor insinuates that Becky and Amelia (her stepsister) are jealous that Taylor's father, Kyle, loves Taylor more than Becky and Amelia.
Becky and Amelia are superficial af. I mean, Taylor describes them as the typical 'blonde tan bitch' who drinks martinis, wine, scroll down her phone 24/7, has expensive clothes than wears only one time (how, in the name of the gods, can people do that? I'm poor af and I'm used to wear the same clothes for years perhaps), has this big ass mansion, a good car, a club with other rich and drunk women, yada, yada, yada. Becky criticizes Taylor a lot, she says mean stuff about Taylor and Taylor acts like "well, yeah, it hurts, but I can't do anything because I'm her guest and I won't tell daddy because they will fight for me and I don't want that either". I mean, girl, stand up and defend yourself; you're so fucking bland. Becky and Amelia only exist in order to make our speshul girl look like she's a heroin (which she's not), and an innocent girl.
As a normal YA father, Kyle is not present so much in this book. I mean, he only appears when Becky is in scene or to apologize for "not being a good father", for not being with her before when her mom was getting high and all that stuff.
James is a creepy old guy. I mean, in the cover of the other two books, James looks like he's 30 years old, and not 21. I mean, he's inmortal and has like 200 years (again, the tiring trope of the +100 years old guy with the 17 years old girl), and falls for Taylor within 10 days. Just like Taylor, James has no description beyond the blue-gray eyes and square jaw *rolls eyes*. He's weird as fuck and he does more weird stuff. He's gazillionare, has like 10 houses, 100 boats and who knows what else more.
The pacing was really slow and maybe that's what made me dnf this book. Or perhaps the fact that looked like a version of Twilight in 2020.
Taylor, Bella, Mary Sue, is obsessed with James, Edward, and I have some evidence.
"I inhaled the scent of Jame's blue T-shirt again and decided not to wash it."
And then, she pretends like she's not obsessed with James.
"I just... want to know about him. I don't remember ever hearing about him before." I tried to sound neutral, not obsessed."
And, I don't know, this was like ???? to me, because they've just had two days of meeting each other, but
"When he smiled at me, it was like the sun coming out."
ALSO, WE HAVE A FEMINIST JAMES.
"Here's a little wisdom for you. I think people —men, in particular— should stop telling women what to do."
Then, Taylor hears the doorbell ringing, but, surprise! There's no one outside, and suddenly:
"Taylor". James was suddenly right next to me, gripping my hands."
And moments later.
"James was outside the house; my dad was inside. Both of them would look out of me."
Now, 3 days after met, James goes with this:
"Ah, that's my girl." His dimple peeped out. "I love a woman who knows her boats."
"It was meant to be, Taylor."
In her job, Taylor does nothing else but trying to not to look her drinks and spill them off her tray, which makes me bored, yikes.
Well, this was boring, I must admit it. I thought it was going to be a fast pacing, but no. It was more Becky and Amelia talking about Taylor at "her back", and plot twist, Taylor was listening and feeling like crap, but everytime James appeared, the feeling was gone.
Some sort of Twilight, but the werewolves were missing.
Also, fall in love within ten days (I guess, lmao)????????????
Yeah, I will not bother myself reading the other books, yikes. I said I was in the mood for something bad like this, but this book was beyond that.
Thanks for coming to my ted talk!
September 8, 2020
Following the death of her mother three months earlier, Taylor Hale arrives in Dawnhaven, a small island off the coast of Northern Maine, to reconnect with her father, step mother Becky and their 14 year old daughter Amelia. From the offset, Becky makes her displeasure known regarding Taylor’s presence in their home. If Taylor can just make it through senior year and survive living with her wicked stepmother, she’ll be free, once and for all.
Taylor takes a job waitressing at their local restaurant and befriends fellow waitress, Eden Lambert and Josie who teach her the ropes. Taylor finds herself drawn towards James Champlain, the local billionaire, whose family owns a ton of properties including the old mansion down on the west beach known as ‘The Tower.’ Although James seems equally smitten with Taylor, it soon becomes apparent that not only does he possess the uncanny ability to read auras but seems to be hiding other secrets which only his close knit friends seem privy to. When strange things begin to happen around Taylor, James realises that dark forces are at play which threaten the balance between darkness and light...
Awakening is the first instalment of the Equinox Pact series by Leigh Walker. Having read the author’s Vampire Kingdom trilogy, I was already familiar with her work so I was looking forward to delving into her latest series. The strength of the book lies in the characterisation. Taylor is an appealing protagonist who readers will instantly sympathise with due to her tragic background. Having lost her mother to a drug overdose she must now contend with her stepmother’s vitriol as well as her stepsister’s animosity while living under their roof. Becky and Amelia are particularly nasty antagonists and I found myself wishing more than once that Taylor would be more assertive towards them. On the plus side are the dynamics between James and his closely knit friends who in turn are extremely loyal and protective towards him. I’m hoping to learn more about James, his background as well as his family in the next instalment. I did feel that the romance was a tad rushed, which is a trap that most YA novels typically fall into. I hope to see more of the characters fleshed out in the next instalment.
This instalment had a uniquely developed plot which progressed at a good pace. The island with its descriptive vivid imagery made for a stunning setting and added to the magical ambiance. The plot thickened and twisted in ways that I didn’t see coming. James, in particular was a mystery as I couldn’t figure out what exactly he was until he finally revealed himself. The ending came as a complete surprise and I’m looking forward to seeing how events will unfold in the follow up.
Recommended for fans of paranormal romance, mysteries, witches, dark magic, vampires, psychics etc
Taylor takes a job waitressing at their local restaurant and befriends fellow waitress, Eden Lambert and Josie who teach her the ropes. Taylor finds herself drawn towards James Champlain, the local billionaire, whose family owns a ton of properties including the old mansion down on the west beach known as ‘The Tower.’ Although James seems equally smitten with Taylor, it soon becomes apparent that not only does he possess the uncanny ability to read auras but seems to be hiding other secrets which only his close knit friends seem privy to. When strange things begin to happen around Taylor, James realises that dark forces are at play which threaten the balance between darkness and light...
Awakening is the first instalment of the Equinox Pact series by Leigh Walker. Having read the author’s Vampire Kingdom trilogy, I was already familiar with her work so I was looking forward to delving into her latest series. The strength of the book lies in the characterisation. Taylor is an appealing protagonist who readers will instantly sympathise with due to her tragic background. Having lost her mother to a drug overdose she must now contend with her stepmother’s vitriol as well as her stepsister’s animosity while living under their roof. Becky and Amelia are particularly nasty antagonists and I found myself wishing more than once that Taylor would be more assertive towards them. On the plus side are the dynamics between James and his closely knit friends who in turn are extremely loyal and protective towards him. I’m hoping to learn more about James, his background as well as his family in the next instalment. I did feel that the romance was a tad rushed, which is a trap that most YA novels typically fall into. I hope to see more of the characters fleshed out in the next instalment.
This instalment had a uniquely developed plot which progressed at a good pace. The island with its descriptive vivid imagery made for a stunning setting and added to the magical ambiance. The plot thickened and twisted in ways that I didn’t see coming. James, in particular was a mystery as I couldn’t figure out what exactly he was until he finally revealed himself. The ending came as a complete surprise and I’m looking forward to seeing how events will unfold in the follow up.
Recommended for fans of paranormal romance, mysteries, witches, dark magic, vampires, psychics etc
March 26, 2025
A sweet little story
I don't normally read these types of books but this was cute. The first book was free and I am considering reading the next book.
I have it five stars because it's a perfect YA book. I'd let my kids read it.
I don't normally read these types of books but this was cute. The first book was free and I am considering reading the next book.
I have it five stars because it's a perfect YA book. I'd let my kids read it.
October 2, 2020
There’s something dark in the island woods, something dangerous. When Taylor encounters it, she learns that not only James is not what he appears, nothing is.
I'm just going to say Taylor didn't encounter squat.
There was a creepy alter in a well and that's it. A few people have almost demonic shakes but it's not explained. James is a vampire...but not. He survived a staking and can now see auras and cleanse things with his blue light. Angel? That's the going theory.
But this book was a lot of "I don't knows". James says this a lot and has a roundabout way of explaining himself to Taylor. He also thinks all these crazy things are happening because they're dating.
Why?
This book is more about Taylor and James going on dates, and Taylor trying to survive her step-mom and sister.
Slice of Life with a little mystery that doesn't build up to anything dangerous. There is a climax but it's another girl's boyfriend refusing to let her go? And James, thousands of years old, just does what a 17 year old tells him to and turns someone into a vampire even though he knows its wrong? It was to save her life, sure, but still.
I just had a lot of frustrations with this book.
But, I will say that the author's voice is good. The writing is clear and flows well. She definitely has an idea here. It just came across as long winded and not built up well.
Also, the author has the characters go through some real talks. Taylor worries about James' intentions toward her. Are they genuine? Valid thoughts. Although James sometimes comes across as too perfect.
This series just wasn't for me.
I'm just going to say Taylor didn't encounter squat.
There was a creepy alter in a well and that's it. A few people have almost demonic shakes but it's not explained. James is a vampire...but not. He survived a staking and can now see auras and cleanse things with his blue light. Angel? That's the going theory.
But this book was a lot of "I don't knows". James says this a lot and has a roundabout way of explaining himself to Taylor. He also thinks all these crazy things are happening because they're dating.
Why?
This book is more about Taylor and James going on dates, and Taylor trying to survive her step-mom and sister.
Slice of Life with a little mystery that doesn't build up to anything dangerous. There is a climax but it's another girl's boyfriend refusing to let her go? And James, thousands of years old, just does what a 17 year old tells him to and turns someone into a vampire even though he knows its wrong? It was to save her life, sure, but still.
I just had a lot of frustrations with this book.
But, I will say that the author's voice is good. The writing is clear and flows well. She definitely has an idea here. It just came across as long winded and not built up well.
Also, the author has the characters go through some real talks. Taylor worries about James' intentions toward her. Are they genuine? Valid thoughts. Although James sometimes comes across as too perfect.
This series just wasn't for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 13, 2021
It left me hot and cold
I can't really pin my exact feelings for this book. One minute I'm into it and the next I don't read it for days. Not because I'm busy, but because it dropped me. I started it up again and then it confused me to no end. Towards the end, I was brought back in and then it dropped me again. I'm stuck in between really liking and disliking the book. Hence why I gave it three stars.
I can't really pin my exact feelings for this book. One minute I'm into it and the next I don't read it for days. Not because I'm busy, but because it dropped me. I started it up again and then it confused me to no end. Towards the end, I was brought back in and then it dropped me again. I'm stuck in between really liking and disliking the book. Hence why I gave it three stars.
July 7, 2020
Interesting twist for a vampire series. I’m ready for book 2!
Want to read
March 24, 2021🎁 FREE on Amazon today (3/24/2021)! 🎁
November 2, 2025
i really enjoyed this first book in this series
May 31, 2020
Note: I received this book from the author and I voluntarily give this review, it is my honest opinion.
It's been a while since I've read a ya book, I've been on an ebook, adult, paranormal reverse harem binge. However when I came across Awakening by Leigh Walker I was captivated, then it kept crossing my path and finally, I was presented with an opportunity to read it and I loved it.
Taylor Hale has had a rough life, the summer before her senior year in high school she moves to a little fishing island off the coast of main. There she reconnects with her father and gets to know the locals when she meets James. After Taylor is introduced to James' world things start to look up as their romance gets sweeter. However strange things are happening and Taylor is in the center of it, what happens when the world you thought you knew begins to change? Well, Taylor is about to find out.
I really enjoyed Awakening and I want to give a good review but I don't want to spoil it for anyone and I think this is the type of book that can easily be spoiled, I think readers need to go in blind or assuming to get the full effect of the story.
The background is a small Maine coastal fishing Island and I loved it. Leigh was so atmospheric when describing the quaint little island and the surrounding island communities, it really sets the stage for something unusual happening while giving the readers a beautiful setting for a mysterious story. There is something about a fishing town that sets up a story for a good mystery.
The Characters
As in true storytelling fashion, Taylor Hale has an evil stepmother that is hell-bent on her destruction. Taylor is really sweet but she kinda just takes the verbal abuse from her stepmother and half-sister. The two a vapid and only look at material things, so Taylor who didn't have much is looked down upon. When I say that Taylor's stepmother Becky (yes she is a Becky, haha) is evil, I mean the nasty things that Becky says to Taylor really shouldn't be said to anyone let alone a child and the fact that she teaches her fourteen-year-old daughter, Taylor's half-sister, to say similar things is horrible. As for Kyle, who's Taylor's dad, seems like a good guy but how can he be when he has allowed things to happen.
Eden is one of Taylor's closest friend on the island and I loved their friendship, they are really close, they share things, are supportive and give each other advice. Eden is one of the very people that Taylor has a healthy relationship with and it was good to see her have good moments. James was another good thing in Taylor's life, I liked the two together, he was mature and seemed to understand her in a lot of ways and take into account her feelings at all times. What I didn't like was that he kept things from her or when he said he would explain he just talked in circles and not really explain anything.
The story itself was amazing, with the setting, and the supernatural. There was a variety of supernaturals and the mythology behind some was different than I was use to and I enjoyed that. The biggest plot twist was something that kinda stretched to the end but you didn't realize it until the plot twist popped up in the last fourth of the book. I was truly shocked and loved. During the last fourth of the book, a lot of things happen and the story ends on a cliffhanger that made my jaw drop. Gawd I really need the second book because I got so bad feelings and I need to know what happens, not want to know, I need to know.
Awakening is the first book in the Equinox Pact series and things are just getting started. This first book was filled with mystery, mythology, the supernatural, romance, heartache, family drama and so much more. I am looking forward to the next book in the series and I am hoping I get more of the same.
It's been a while since I've read a ya book, I've been on an ebook, adult, paranormal reverse harem binge. However when I came across Awakening by Leigh Walker I was captivated, then it kept crossing my path and finally, I was presented with an opportunity to read it and I loved it.
Taylor Hale has had a rough life, the summer before her senior year in high school she moves to a little fishing island off the coast of main. There she reconnects with her father and gets to know the locals when she meets James. After Taylor is introduced to James' world things start to look up as their romance gets sweeter. However strange things are happening and Taylor is in the center of it, what happens when the world you thought you knew begins to change? Well, Taylor is about to find out.
I really enjoyed Awakening and I want to give a good review but I don't want to spoil it for anyone and I think this is the type of book that can easily be spoiled, I think readers need to go in blind or assuming to get the full effect of the story.
The background is a small Maine coastal fishing Island and I loved it. Leigh was so atmospheric when describing the quaint little island and the surrounding island communities, it really sets the stage for something unusual happening while giving the readers a beautiful setting for a mysterious story. There is something about a fishing town that sets up a story for a good mystery.
The Characters
As in true storytelling fashion, Taylor Hale has an evil stepmother that is hell-bent on her destruction. Taylor is really sweet but she kinda just takes the verbal abuse from her stepmother and half-sister. The two a vapid and only look at material things, so Taylor who didn't have much is looked down upon. When I say that Taylor's stepmother Becky (yes she is a Becky, haha) is evil, I mean the nasty things that Becky says to Taylor really shouldn't be said to anyone let alone a child and the fact that she teaches her fourteen-year-old daughter, Taylor's half-sister, to say similar things is horrible. As for Kyle, who's Taylor's dad, seems like a good guy but how can he be when he has allowed things to happen.
Eden is one of Taylor's closest friend on the island and I loved their friendship, they are really close, they share things, are supportive and give each other advice. Eden is one of the very people that Taylor has a healthy relationship with and it was good to see her have good moments. James was another good thing in Taylor's life, I liked the two together, he was mature and seemed to understand her in a lot of ways and take into account her feelings at all times. What I didn't like was that he kept things from her or when he said he would explain he just talked in circles and not really explain anything.
The story itself was amazing, with the setting, and the supernatural. There was a variety of supernaturals and the mythology behind some was different than I was use to and I enjoyed that. The biggest plot twist was something that kinda stretched to the end but you didn't realize it until the plot twist popped up in the last fourth of the book. I was truly shocked and loved. During the last fourth of the book, a lot of things happen and the story ends on a cliffhanger that made my jaw drop. Gawd I really need the second book because I got so bad feelings and I need to know what happens, not want to know, I need to know.
Awakening is the first book in the Equinox Pact series and things are just getting started. This first book was filled with mystery, mythology, the supernatural, romance, heartache, family drama and so much more. I am looking forward to the next book in the series and I am hoping I get more of the same.
September 29, 2020
Yet another book that I had high hopes for, but I just didn't feel any connection between the characters. They said they loved each other, but I didn't feel it, and have no idea why James fell in love with Taylor. He is so much older than her, has much more life experience, but I didn't get any inkling as to why she was the one? From Taylor's point of view, James was good looking, rich, thoughtful, protective, so it makes sense that she would fall for him - but what did she offer? Again, I didn't feel their connection, it was a bit wooden. Then we have the supernatural elements -- I kept thinking that some big event would occur, or that other characters (like Becky, or Taylor's mother) would be revealed to have some important paranormal connection, but nothing was really revealed. Nothing really happened until the end of the book, but those events didn't leave me with anticipation or make me want to continue the series.
March 6, 2021
Interesting twist to the vampire trope
I appreciate that the author added a twist to the typical vampire love story. I saw someone describe this as Twilight mixed with Cinderella and that’s a very accurate description. One writing convention that irked my nerves to no end - though was the main character’s go to phrase when nervous - “O-Okay”. It must have been in the book a thousand times and grated after awhile. Odd gripe, I know. Other than that, I personally can’t stand books where one person is stays married to a clearly horrible person (Taylor’s father to her stepmother) who treats their child horribly. I mean, it’s a real occurrence but the extent to which this book takes it is inconceivable. The stepmother doesn’t have a single redeeming quality. Since this is YA, I’m assuming the young adults who read this won’t delve as deeply as I. Other than that, I enjoyed the book and it’s novel take on vampires. I can honestly say I’ve never seen this route (James) explored before. The cliffhanger was nicely done to entice a young person to purchase the next book in the series. I think so much more could have been done with with this story line. The story meandered and nothing was really revealed. The things that were revealed took forever to get to - needlessly.
I appreciate that the author added a twist to the typical vampire love story. I saw someone describe this as Twilight mixed with Cinderella and that’s a very accurate description. One writing convention that irked my nerves to no end - though was the main character’s go to phrase when nervous - “O-Okay”. It must have been in the book a thousand times and grated after awhile. Odd gripe, I know. Other than that, I personally can’t stand books where one person is stays married to a clearly horrible person (Taylor’s father to her stepmother) who treats their child horribly. I mean, it’s a real occurrence but the extent to which this book takes it is inconceivable. The stepmother doesn’t have a single redeeming quality. Since this is YA, I’m assuming the young adults who read this won’t delve as deeply as I. Other than that, I enjoyed the book and it’s novel take on vampires. I can honestly say I’ve never seen this route (James) explored before. The cliffhanger was nicely done to entice a young person to purchase the next book in the series. I think so much more could have been done with with this story line. The story meandered and nothing was really revealed. The things that were revealed took forever to get to - needlessly.
May 21, 2023
(2.5 ⭐️) ‘“i love you. it’s so simple that it’s complicated.”’
while this book was entertaining, i wouldn’t necessarily call it good. it was like if twilight and a teen drama had a child.
becky and amelia pissed me off so much, like how as a 14 year old are you calling your half sister ‘trailer trash’ and a ‘ho-bag’ then calling her mom a trashy hooker junkie 🧍♀️ ridiculous i would’ve beat the shit out of her ngl
idk i just feel like a lot of things in this book were unresolved and a lot of different things were just thrown in at times 🤷♀️
‘“it’s true. every time i look at you, i don’t know. it’s like you undo me.”’
while this book was entertaining, i wouldn’t necessarily call it good. it was like if twilight and a teen drama had a child.
becky and amelia pissed me off so much, like how as a 14 year old are you calling your half sister ‘trailer trash’ and a ‘ho-bag’ then calling her mom a trashy hooker junkie 🧍♀️ ridiculous i would’ve beat the shit out of her ngl
idk i just feel like a lot of things in this book were unresolved and a lot of different things were just thrown in at times 🤷♀️
‘“it’s true. every time i look at you, i don’t know. it’s like you undo me.”’
January 15, 2022
“Here’s a little wisdom for you. I think people—men, in particular—should stop telling women what to do. And they should stop commenting on their looks and telling them to smile. It’s obnoxious. Not to mention patriarchal.”
I went in with average expectations, sort of expecting an easy fantasy romance between a rich vampire, considering the tag line compares it to twilight meets Cinderella, and a poor girl with some apparent mystery in the background keeping the readers interested. And hey, if it was a bit simple, it was free on Amazon, with the added bonus it could have been a fantastic reimagining.
From my one-star review, you may have already guessed it was not a fantastic reimagining.
Taylor moves to a small barely inhabited Island off the coast of the US, outnumbered by the absurdly wealthy including Taylor’s stepmother and, through marriage, her father. Her mother has died after a long addiction to drugs, and she’s forced into a new home where she’s hated and berated by her ridiculous stepmother, Becky, and half-sister, Amelia. Their artificial, fake and a complete stereotype with no depth or purpose apart from to make Taylors angelic light seem brighter. I don’t even understand how Becky has become this super-rich socialite. Furthermore, despite all of this trauma Taylor has no strong feelings whatsoever. She ‘forgives’ her mother’s relationship with drugs without any real conflict or apparent long-lasting effect on her, she obviously doesn’t like the criticism from her family but just admits defeat that she can’t do anything about it apparently, including really standing up for herself without seeming like a wet blanket. To be fair all her dad seems to do is apologise for being a bad father, be mostly absent and then enter a scene and have zero impact on it.
Now for James, thousands of years old, apparently not a vampire but is and it’s all really confusing and doesn’t seem to make any sense- which pretty much sums up all the magic and ‘forces’ at work in this book. He of course falls for a seventeen-year-old girl. Within ten days. FOR NO REASON. They become obsessed with each other within a short space of time when Taylor is literally a one-dimensional character with nothing interesting about her and James has thousands of years on her having met billions of people and lived countless lives- he ‘chooses’ her. People hate on Twilight (I must admit it’s a favourite) but there was a real spark and connection there. Here, if you do manage to push aside this gazillionaire (yep he apparently is a self-stated gazillionaire) and his age, there is still no spark there between them.
James is apparently a feminist, as you can see from the quote above, but still gives condescending comments and Taylor constantly needs to be ‘protected’. From what, I honestly don’t know. This book had no real mystery and really didn’t go anywhere, there was hardly a climax at all. Whenever there was even an inkling of ‘drama’ it consisted of Taylor acting hysterical and James actually listening to her and being vague while ignoring his years of experience.
I’m disappointed, putting it mildly after that long rant.
I went in with average expectations, sort of expecting an easy fantasy romance between a rich vampire, considering the tag line compares it to twilight meets Cinderella, and a poor girl with some apparent mystery in the background keeping the readers interested. And hey, if it was a bit simple, it was free on Amazon, with the added bonus it could have been a fantastic reimagining.
From my one-star review, you may have already guessed it was not a fantastic reimagining.
Taylor moves to a small barely inhabited Island off the coast of the US, outnumbered by the absurdly wealthy including Taylor’s stepmother and, through marriage, her father. Her mother has died after a long addiction to drugs, and she’s forced into a new home where she’s hated and berated by her ridiculous stepmother, Becky, and half-sister, Amelia. Their artificial, fake and a complete stereotype with no depth or purpose apart from to make Taylors angelic light seem brighter. I don’t even understand how Becky has become this super-rich socialite. Furthermore, despite all of this trauma Taylor has no strong feelings whatsoever. She ‘forgives’ her mother’s relationship with drugs without any real conflict or apparent long-lasting effect on her, she obviously doesn’t like the criticism from her family but just admits defeat that she can’t do anything about it apparently, including really standing up for herself without seeming like a wet blanket. To be fair all her dad seems to do is apologise for being a bad father, be mostly absent and then enter a scene and have zero impact on it.
Now for James, thousands of years old, apparently not a vampire but is and it’s all really confusing and doesn’t seem to make any sense- which pretty much sums up all the magic and ‘forces’ at work in this book. He of course falls for a seventeen-year-old girl. Within ten days. FOR NO REASON. They become obsessed with each other within a short space of time when Taylor is literally a one-dimensional character with nothing interesting about her and James has thousands of years on her having met billions of people and lived countless lives- he ‘chooses’ her. People hate on Twilight (I must admit it’s a favourite) but there was a real spark and connection there. Here, if you do manage to push aside this gazillionaire (yep he apparently is a self-stated gazillionaire) and his age, there is still no spark there between them.
James is apparently a feminist, as you can see from the quote above, but still gives condescending comments and Taylor constantly needs to be ‘protected’. From what, I honestly don’t know. This book had no real mystery and really didn’t go anywhere, there was hardly a climax at all. Whenever there was even an inkling of ‘drama’ it consisted of Taylor acting hysterical and James actually listening to her and being vague while ignoring his years of experience.
I’m disappointed, putting it mildly after that long rant.
April 12, 2021
This was one of those really unexpected "finds". I downloaded this because it was free and I was bored enough to try reading a dumb Y A fantasy... Only it was actually really, really good!
It is well written with an actual plot and interesting characters, and if my library doesn't have the sequels, I may actually be compelled to shell out actual money for them, which I never do!
The only reason I'm not giving out 5 stars is because of the lesbians.
Can we not have ONE young adult book that's just boy meets girl and small town America is small town America instead of the California Coast version? I'm really tired of that cliché.
It is well written with an actual plot and interesting characters, and if my library doesn't have the sequels, I may actually be compelled to shell out actual money for them, which I never do!
The only reason I'm not giving out 5 stars is because of the lesbians.
Can we not have ONE young adult book that's just boy meets girl and small town America is small town America instead of the California Coast version? I'm really tired of that cliché.
July 27, 2024
DNF @ 57% Awakening started out alright, but I can not manage to continue as i find the relationship between the main characters off putting as there is instalove and it’s not believable besides that I find that there is nothing really happening in the book and the vampire but not doesn’t really make sense.
November 18, 2020
Wow! I loved that the author took the paranormal world and just put their own spin on it. I loved the characters. The plot was interesting and pulled me in immediately. That ending, though. It left me wanting so much more. I can't wait to read book 2.
March 28, 2021
Taylor’s barely been back to the small island of Dawnhaven in Mount Desert Island where her father lives with her stepmom and her half sister when her stepmom starts laying ground rules. She’s to get a job during her stay and a curfew.she finds her stepmom overbearing and self righteous.
Her mother died from overdose three months previously. Following her mom’s death she spent the last three months of her junior year at Aunt Jackie’s, and now she’s moved back supposed to finish school at Mount Desert Island High.
She finally gets a job waitressing at a restaurant called *Portside* where she first meets James Champlain who’s in town for summer.
Her mother died from overdose three months previously. Following her mom’s death she spent the last three months of her junior year at Aunt Jackie’s, and now she’s moved back supposed to finish school at Mount Desert Island High.
She finally gets a job waitressing at a restaurant called *Portside* where she first meets James Champlain who’s in town for summer.
September 25, 2020
Boring, boring...
June 13, 2024
A book for teen and young adult readers. If you are in that range, go ahead and buy the entire series.
May 28, 2020
I love a good vampire book, add in some romance and I'm sold! This book did not disappoint in that department - very creative take on the vampire world, I loved the creative angle for James's character. Taylor, James, Eden, Josie, and the rest of the gang were likable characters - I was truly rooting for them. Becky and Amelia are horrible, but a good villain is a plus so I enjoyed when they had their temper tantrum moments.
The ending was completely not what I was expecting, which was good in a way, but I was expecting a little more closure on numerous unanswered questions. But I can understand those are now left to be resolved in later books. I thought the Eden/Brian dynamic was a little overplayed to get them where they needed to be at the end, but my biggest issue with the ending was Taylor asking James to turn Eden. That doesn't jive for me with her being so in love with him (see next paragraph for more on that), when he specifically made her promise never to ask him that EVER... about 2 days ago. So, that was a pretty childish moment for Taylor, and I also felt showed that she is a little immature and selfish to truly understand what it means to be in love. So I don't believe her when she says she loves James. There. I said it.
As mentioned above, the main issue I have with this book, and hence the 4 instead of 5 rating, was the romance - complete instalove! Again, I love some good smoldering romance and build, but these 2 jumped right into being in "love" in about 5 minutes. I can see it from James's point of view - hey, the guy is 150 years old so I figure he probably really does know love when he sees it - but I found it completely unbelievable for Taylor to "love" him back so quickly, and it did make me lose a little respect for James to not be experience in life enough to question a 17 y.o. telling him she loves him so quickly. So, in my opinion, Taylor needs to grow up a little before she jumps in to telling a boy she loves him because she is just not there.
I'd also like to see Taylor being a little more honest and straightforward with her dad in future books -but again, she's 17, so that's pretty realistic that she might not be.
All in all an engaging read and I do look forward to the next book in the series!
The ending was completely not what I was expecting, which was good in a way, but I was expecting a little more closure on numerous unanswered questions. But I can understand those are now left to be resolved in later books. I thought the Eden/Brian dynamic was a little overplayed to get them where they needed to be at the end, but my biggest issue with the ending was Taylor asking James to turn Eden. That doesn't jive for me with her being so in love with him (see next paragraph for more on that), when he specifically made her promise never to ask him that EVER... about 2 days ago. So, that was a pretty childish moment for Taylor, and I also felt showed that she is a little immature and selfish to truly understand what it means to be in love. So I don't believe her when she says she loves James. There. I said it.
As mentioned above, the main issue I have with this book, and hence the 4 instead of 5 rating, was the romance - complete instalove! Again, I love some good smoldering romance and build, but these 2 jumped right into being in "love" in about 5 minutes. I can see it from James's point of view - hey, the guy is 150 years old so I figure he probably really does know love when he sees it - but I found it completely unbelievable for Taylor to "love" him back so quickly, and it did make me lose a little respect for James to not be experience in life enough to question a 17 y.o. telling him she loves him so quickly. So, in my opinion, Taylor needs to grow up a little before she jumps in to telling a boy she loves him because she is just not there.
I'd also like to see Taylor being a little more honest and straightforward with her dad in future books -but again, she's 17, so that's pretty realistic that she might not be.
All in all an engaging read and I do look forward to the next book in the series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 1, 2020
Dnf at 64%
Cause it was too slow paced for me and nothing seemed to be happening until like a few chapeters ago and I didn't get sucked into the story like I expected to.
Wasn't bad at all was just too slow for my liking and just not for me sadly.
Cause it was too slow paced for me and nothing seemed to be happening until like a few chapeters ago and I didn't get sucked into the story like I expected to.
Wasn't bad at all was just too slow for my liking and just not for me sadly.
October 8, 2020
A good read involves an explanation or two, or three, etc.
It captured my attention. I liked the concept of a girl who moves In with her dad, wicked stepmother and bratty half sister, gets a job, meets cute guy, and makes a few friends. I liked the mystery of James and how he’s able to read people. It made for a good read, until I began to wondered why I continued to read this.
There are vampires or angels (I’m not sure which one or if both yet), witches, mediums, ghost (I think), and possessed people (I think). I didn’t like that there was no physical description of James, just good looking, square jaw. So imagine what you want. There’s no physical description of Taylor. I think she’s blond, but I’m it sure. They love each other within ten days.
I didn’t like that when it seems like an explanation was near for whatever unbelievable nonsense that was occurring, they would trail off into a different topic or say something like this means something, but I don’t know what. I thirst for more details, yet there were none. The physics lesson was supposedly a way to give more information, but it was instead daunting and repetitive. I felt it was a filler in an attempt to make the book longer.
I didn’t like the repetitiveness of Taylor when she was working saying, “I did not look at the drinks when I carried them on the tray. I did not take food from the line without a ticket”. I think the author may have done some copy and paste for this line.
I was annoyed at Taylor saying she had nothing to wear, and her talking about how dirty and worn the shoes Becky gave her had become. She had a job. What was she doing with her money. There was no mention of a savings account, yet she would make $200 in tips. Maybe she ate the money.
Too much talk about boats and the thingys attached to the boats, and the water, and things to do on the water and see in the water, and watching the sunrise.
I don’t mind a good book that is 250+ pages. It is not necessary to be repetitive and have unnecessary, unexplainable dialogue in a book to make it longer. Take a way a good 100 pages of stupidity from this book and it would be a decent read. My recommendations is to read if you want to.
It captured my attention. I liked the concept of a girl who moves In with her dad, wicked stepmother and bratty half sister, gets a job, meets cute guy, and makes a few friends. I liked the mystery of James and how he’s able to read people. It made for a good read, until I began to wondered why I continued to read this.
There are vampires or angels (I’m not sure which one or if both yet), witches, mediums, ghost (I think), and possessed people (I think). I didn’t like that there was no physical description of James, just good looking, square jaw. So imagine what you want. There’s no physical description of Taylor. I think she’s blond, but I’m it sure. They love each other within ten days.
I didn’t like that when it seems like an explanation was near for whatever unbelievable nonsense that was occurring, they would trail off into a different topic or say something like this means something, but I don’t know what. I thirst for more details, yet there were none. The physics lesson was supposedly a way to give more information, but it was instead daunting and repetitive. I felt it was a filler in an attempt to make the book longer.
I didn’t like the repetitiveness of Taylor when she was working saying, “I did not look at the drinks when I carried them on the tray. I did not take food from the line without a ticket”. I think the author may have done some copy and paste for this line.
I was annoyed at Taylor saying she had nothing to wear, and her talking about how dirty and worn the shoes Becky gave her had become. She had a job. What was she doing with her money. There was no mention of a savings account, yet she would make $200 in tips. Maybe she ate the money.
Too much talk about boats and the thingys attached to the boats, and the water, and things to do on the water and see in the water, and watching the sunrise.
I don’t mind a good book that is 250+ pages. It is not necessary to be repetitive and have unnecessary, unexplainable dialogue in a book to make it longer. Take a way a good 100 pages of stupidity from this book and it would be a decent read. My recommendations is to read if you want to.
January 10, 2021
This happens when someone has a relatively good idea for a book and gets inspiration from stories that already turned out to be a success granting some reasonable income for the writer. I guess. Otherwise why are writers still getting back to the Twilight story, trying to copy it or as in this case mentioning it as the world winning romantic story ever... Getting past the reference and the serious faceslap and eyeroll that caused me, l need to say that the story turned out to be a different, “fresh” one, maybe in some cases a bit too fresh...
Ooh Bram Stoker and Ann Rice, please forgive this lady for the different approach. Let her spread her wings... but maybe limit it first to the chicken coop before she will try to fly. Believe me, l was also thinking in some cases it is nonsense. So some advice to both editor and writer:
1. The web is full with information, maybe doublechecking some information couldn’t actually hurt. As aura is not a magical thing, not a blurry smoky thing over someone’s head. It is not even wodoo to see it. But it is definitely NOT over the head only.
2. Aura won’t SAY anything. “It says you didn’t expect to be dating a former vampire” was it actually talking to him in english? In vampirish?
3. Elsa frim Frozen was not making it snow electric blue sparks! She made it snow (spoiler alert, even if its suprising and sg nobody would expect) SNOW.
4. Putting on cheap mascara before heading to the pool is maybe not a good idea for our main heroe (the girl, l mean the girl!!!) to measure if she looked different after she actually thinks she got a boyfriend. Or maybe l grew up with a different sense. Or actually with a sense?
I am not even commenting the formal vampire feeling like becoming a guardian angel thing.
Anyway it was not too bad. Deserves a 3star rating as l have read worse and was a quick read that made me curious how things will turn out. Yeah even despite of the constant eyeroll.
Ooh Bram Stoker and Ann Rice, please forgive this lady for the different approach. Let her spread her wings... but maybe limit it first to the chicken coop before she will try to fly. Believe me, l was also thinking in some cases it is nonsense. So some advice to both editor and writer:
1. The web is full with information, maybe doublechecking some information couldn’t actually hurt. As aura is not a magical thing, not a blurry smoky thing over someone’s head. It is not even wodoo to see it. But it is definitely NOT over the head only.
2. Aura won’t SAY anything. “It says you didn’t expect to be dating a former vampire” was it actually talking to him in english? In vampirish?
3. Elsa frim Frozen was not making it snow electric blue sparks! She made it snow (spoiler alert, even if its suprising and sg nobody would expect) SNOW.
4. Putting on cheap mascara before heading to the pool is maybe not a good idea for our main heroe (the girl, l mean the girl!!!) to measure if she looked different after she actually thinks she got a boyfriend. Or maybe l grew up with a different sense. Or actually with a sense?
I am not even commenting the formal vampire feeling like becoming a guardian angel thing.
Anyway it was not too bad. Deserves a 3star rating as l have read worse and was a quick read that made me curious how things will turn out. Yeah even despite of the constant eyeroll.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 1, 2021
I should start with saying that I’m really thankful I’ve got this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I’ve wanted to read another vampire book for so long now, but I never found the right one. All kind of repeated themselves or they were complicated for some reason to me.
When I first saw this book what caught my eye was the cover. It’s beautiful and simple, isn’t it? Then of course I needed to know what it is about...so second for me was the about. That’s how I knew I’m going to love the book.
When I started reading this book I didn’t really know what to expect or to say more precisely what direction the book is going to take. I know it kind of reminded me of Twilight, but that’s kind of every book I read, because Twilight was the first vampire book I’ve ever read, so. But it took a very nice detour from it.
For me this book was relaxing. It sound kind of weird. However I really really liked it! The author set a nice and slow tempo with the book, but not the kind where one scene takes 20 pages, but rather when it comes to the way of writing. I understood everything, which is sometimes rare in YA (Young Adult) books. It was exactly what I needed at the moment. Something I’m going to love but I won’t have to think too much about it, just basically ride the tide.
If you love to read books about vampires this is a book for you. If you don’t really want to think too much about what is happening or if you understand it properly, but want to rather live the story...THIS IS A BOOK FOR YOU!
I’d love to tell you more about the book, but I just don’t want to spoil it. But I’m when you meet James, please let me know. And...well, he’s taken. BY ME! I don’t care about Taylor, even tho I love her, haha.
I’ve wanted to read another vampire book for so long now, but I never found the right one. All kind of repeated themselves or they were complicated for some reason to me.
When I first saw this book what caught my eye was the cover. It’s beautiful and simple, isn’t it? Then of course I needed to know what it is about...so second for me was the about. That’s how I knew I’m going to love the book.
When I started reading this book I didn’t really know what to expect or to say more precisely what direction the book is going to take. I know it kind of reminded me of Twilight, but that’s kind of every book I read, because Twilight was the first vampire book I’ve ever read, so. But it took a very nice detour from it.
For me this book was relaxing. It sound kind of weird. However I really really liked it! The author set a nice and slow tempo with the book, but not the kind where one scene takes 20 pages, but rather when it comes to the way of writing. I understood everything, which is sometimes rare in YA (Young Adult) books. It was exactly what I needed at the moment. Something I’m going to love but I won’t have to think too much about it, just basically ride the tide.
If you love to read books about vampires this is a book for you. If you don’t really want to think too much about what is happening or if you understand it properly, but want to rather live the story...THIS IS A BOOK FOR YOU!
I’d love to tell you more about the book, but I just don’t want to spoil it. But I’m when you meet James, please let me know. And...well, he’s taken. BY ME! I don’t care about Taylor, even tho I love her, haha.
July 11, 2020
I can see why the author says this is her favorite book she's written yet! Although I love everything Leigh Walker writes. Her stories flow so well that it's impossible to put the book down until you've finished it.
I love the setting of this one, as it is an island off the coast of Maine where the temperatures are always cool, even in the middle of summer. The ocean and beaches and forests and mountains make me wish I was there! Although I would NOT want to be anywhere near Becky. Becky is one of the worst human beings on the planet, and she taught her daughter to be the same way. I know Taylor loves her dad and seems to forgive him for not being more active in her life up to this point, but I think he is just as culpable for Amelia's behavior since he hasn't tried hard enough to curb it, despite Becky working against him. Taylor has to survive the summer and senior year trapped in a house with her "step-monster", half-sister, and father, and I don't know how she's going to do it. I think she needs to take a stand and tell her dad the truth about how awful Becky and Amelia are to her.
But despite how awful her current home life is, Taylor makes some awesome friends and is drawn to James Champlain, who is just as drawn to her! I absolutely love Leigh Walker's characters. Not only are her main characters awesome, but so are the best friends and other side characters! Walker writes the best best friends!!
I can't say much without giving plot points away, but suffice it to say if you love paranormal/supernatural beings, a human who gets caught up in their world and falls in love, and an overprotective love interest (because really, who doesn't love that), then you need to check this out! It's such a fun book, and I am anxiously awaiting the second one!
I love the setting of this one, as it is an island off the coast of Maine where the temperatures are always cool, even in the middle of summer. The ocean and beaches and forests and mountains make me wish I was there! Although I would NOT want to be anywhere near Becky. Becky is one of the worst human beings on the planet, and she taught her daughter to be the same way. I know Taylor loves her dad and seems to forgive him for not being more active in her life up to this point, but I think he is just as culpable for Amelia's behavior since he hasn't tried hard enough to curb it, despite Becky working against him. Taylor has to survive the summer and senior year trapped in a house with her "step-monster", half-sister, and father, and I don't know how she's going to do it. I think she needs to take a stand and tell her dad the truth about how awful Becky and Amelia are to her.
But despite how awful her current home life is, Taylor makes some awesome friends and is drawn to James Champlain, who is just as drawn to her! I absolutely love Leigh Walker's characters. Not only are her main characters awesome, but so are the best friends and other side characters! Walker writes the best best friends!!
I can't say much without giving plot points away, but suffice it to say if you love paranormal/supernatural beings, a human who gets caught up in their world and falls in love, and an overprotective love interest (because really, who doesn't love that), then you need to check this out! It's such a fun book, and I am anxiously awaiting the second one!
October 30, 2020
★★★This is the first book of a new series, perfect for fans of TWILIGHT and THE VAMPIRE DIARIES. Best for older teens: contains adult language and themes, and there are some scary parts.★★★
~This book IS NOT scary~
Leigh Walker definitely has potential but I believe her writing style needs to change if her main characters are 17 and older. I could not for the life of me picture them when they sound way younger. The theme and the writing style just didn’t mesh well
~This book IS NOT scary~
Leigh Walker definitely has potential but I believe her writing style needs to change if her main characters are 17 and older. I could not for the life of me picture them when they sound way younger. The theme and the writing style just didn’t mesh well
November 12, 2020
Really slow
It took a long time for any significant action to happen in this book. And even when action finally happened, it felt too brief. I will say, though, the author does the best I’ve seen in paranormal romance at capturing the long term anxiety that comes with growing up in poverty. I was very impressed with that.
It took a long time for any significant action to happen in this book. And even when action finally happened, it felt too brief. I will say, though, the author does the best I’ve seen in paranormal romance at capturing the long term anxiety that comes with growing up in poverty. I was very impressed with that.
March 11, 2024
Great start to this first book. A lot of things about this book caught me by surprise.
A very different paranormal plot that I enjoyed and the dynamics of each of the characters were refreshing.
I enjoyed the storyline and the characters.
Happy reading!
A very different paranormal plot that I enjoyed and the dynamics of each of the characters were refreshing.
I enjoyed the storyline and the characters.
Happy reading!
September 25, 2024
Leigh Walker’s *Awakening* offers an intriguing premise, blending supernatural mystery with romance, but ultimately falls short of its full potential. The story follows a young protagonist suddenly thrust into a world of hidden powers and dark secrets, setting the stage for a plot filled with danger and discovery. While the premise is captivating and the world-building is solid, the execution often feels uneven.
The protagonist is likable, with a strong sense of self and resilience, making her someone readers can root for. However, her journey of self-discovery, while central to the story, feels rushed at times. There are moments when her character development lacks the depth and complexity that would make her truly stand out. She adapts to the challenges of this new world rather quickly, leaving little room for the internal struggle that could have added more layers to her character. The supporting cast of characters is diverse and interesting, though some feel underdeveloped, and their motivations are sometimes unclear.
The romantic subplot is one of the more compelling elements, but it relies heavily on familiar tropes. The chemistry between the protagonist and her love interest is palpable, yet the predictability of their relationship arc takes away from its emotional impact. While there are moments of tension and tenderness that work well, the romance feels a bit formulaic, lacking the depth needed to make it truly memorable. It feels as though the love story overshadows other key elements of the plot, which at times makes the story feel unevenly paced.
The pacing of the novel is another area that detracts from its overall effectiveness. While there are some exciting moments, the plot tends to meander, with certain chapters feeling like filler rather than adding significant value to the main storyline. There are several twists and turns, but many of them are predictable, which diminishes the overall suspense. Additionally, the world-building, while intriguing, leaves many questions unanswered. More attention to the lore and history of this supernatural world would have helped deepen the immersion.
Another challenge is the writing style itself. While Walker has a talent for descriptive language and a flair for creating atmosphere, the dialogue can sometimes feel stilted or unnatural. This detracts from the emotional impact of key scenes and makes it harder to connect with the characters on a deeper level.
That said, *Awakening* still has its strengths. The supernatural elements are intriguing, and the promise of further exploration in future installments is enough to keep readers curious about where the story might go. It sets up a solid foundation for the series, even if it doesn’t quite deliver on all fronts in this first book.
Overall, *Awakening* is an enjoyable read, but it struggles with pacing, character depth, and predictability. It has the potential to become something more in the next installments, especially if the author digs deeper into the world and characters she’s created. A solid 3 stars for a story with good ideas but room for improvement."
The protagonist is likable, with a strong sense of self and resilience, making her someone readers can root for. However, her journey of self-discovery, while central to the story, feels rushed at times. There are moments when her character development lacks the depth and complexity that would make her truly stand out. She adapts to the challenges of this new world rather quickly, leaving little room for the internal struggle that could have added more layers to her character. The supporting cast of characters is diverse and interesting, though some feel underdeveloped, and their motivations are sometimes unclear.
The romantic subplot is one of the more compelling elements, but it relies heavily on familiar tropes. The chemistry between the protagonist and her love interest is palpable, yet the predictability of their relationship arc takes away from its emotional impact. While there are moments of tension and tenderness that work well, the romance feels a bit formulaic, lacking the depth needed to make it truly memorable. It feels as though the love story overshadows other key elements of the plot, which at times makes the story feel unevenly paced.
The pacing of the novel is another area that detracts from its overall effectiveness. While there are some exciting moments, the plot tends to meander, with certain chapters feeling like filler rather than adding significant value to the main storyline. There are several twists and turns, but many of them are predictable, which diminishes the overall suspense. Additionally, the world-building, while intriguing, leaves many questions unanswered. More attention to the lore and history of this supernatural world would have helped deepen the immersion.
Another challenge is the writing style itself. While Walker has a talent for descriptive language and a flair for creating atmosphere, the dialogue can sometimes feel stilted or unnatural. This detracts from the emotional impact of key scenes and makes it harder to connect with the characters on a deeper level.
That said, *Awakening* still has its strengths. The supernatural elements are intriguing, and the promise of further exploration in future installments is enough to keep readers curious about where the story might go. It sets up a solid foundation for the series, even if it doesn’t quite deliver on all fronts in this first book.
Overall, *Awakening* is an enjoyable read, but it struggles with pacing, character depth, and predictability. It has the potential to become something more in the next installments, especially if the author digs deeper into the world and characters she’s created. A solid 3 stars for a story with good ideas but room for improvement."
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 26, 2021
In the first chapter of this book, this author paints and very detailed picture of a dream. This book is in the first person pretense with the main character introducing the readers to her new home. Dawnhaven, Maine, is an island, desolate small town with lots of tourists in the summer. Taylor is moving in with her dad and stepmom, and step-sister after her mom passed away. She is a good child who is just trying to get thru her senior year. Her stepmom comes across as a rich snotty woman. She arrives at the island during the summer and immediately gets a job at the local diner.
James is island royalty rich, sweet, and yummy to look at it. He is also uncharacteristically nice and keeps to himself minus his circle of friends. He sees Taylor the first day, and then they have a connection at the restaurant before things get friendly on his property. James has a weird quirk, almost supernatural in nature.
Despite the wicked stepmom and step-sister, Taylor is making friends with co-workers and other town folks. James has some oddities to him, but he is a welcome relief to the pit of vipers she lives with. One thing leads to another, and soon they are in a relationship. But why her?
At this point, I'm pondering what kind of supernatural James is; there are certain clues in the book and conversations but nothing discerning yet. I also love that the relationship is blossoming between them, and her confidence is improving.
Oh, this book gets more exciting and more dangerous. Add in witches, other supernaturals, and I'm not sure what James is still. I'm dying to watch the relationship and the supernatural shift. I love that author included so much mystery surrounding the characters. You definitely don't know who is what till they reveal it.
This book gets even more intriguing as it moves on, even making an off-handed reference to "Twilight". I love that this book ended on a bang. I can't wait to read the next one in this trilogy.
I really enjoyed the author's suspense about what supernaturals we were reading about in this paranormal book. I love that book was very YA, with no super-steamy scenes, some language. I really loved how sweet and protective James was and how smart he was as well. This book is a fabulous read and definitely one to try if you love great paranormal suspense with romance and intrigue.
James is island royalty rich, sweet, and yummy to look at it. He is also uncharacteristically nice and keeps to himself minus his circle of friends. He sees Taylor the first day, and then they have a connection at the restaurant before things get friendly on his property. James has a weird quirk, almost supernatural in nature.
Despite the wicked stepmom and step-sister, Taylor is making friends with co-workers and other town folks. James has some oddities to him, but he is a welcome relief to the pit of vipers she lives with. One thing leads to another, and soon they are in a relationship. But why her?
At this point, I'm pondering what kind of supernatural James is; there are certain clues in the book and conversations but nothing discerning yet. I also love that the relationship is blossoming between them, and her confidence is improving.
Oh, this book gets more exciting and more dangerous. Add in witches, other supernaturals, and I'm not sure what James is still. I'm dying to watch the relationship and the supernatural shift. I love that author included so much mystery surrounding the characters. You definitely don't know who is what till they reveal it.
This book gets even more intriguing as it moves on, even making an off-handed reference to "Twilight". I love that this book ended on a bang. I can't wait to read the next one in this trilogy.
I really enjoyed the author's suspense about what supernaturals we were reading about in this paranormal book. I love that book was very YA, with no super-steamy scenes, some language. I really loved how sweet and protective James was and how smart he was as well. This book is a fabulous read and definitely one to try if you love great paranormal suspense with romance and intrigue.
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