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The World of Nightwalkers #3
Forsaken
New York Times bestselling author Jacquelyn Frank continues her scorching and sensual new series set in the world of the Nightwalkers, where an ancient race known as Bodywalkers are the vanguards against the raging forces of darkness.
As a mercenary, Leo Alvarez has signed on for a lot-but he never signed on for his best friend becoming host to the soul of an ancient Egyptian pharaoh. Jackson is now inhabited by a Bodywalker, and Leo is forced to grapple with a realm of supernatural beings far more dangerous than anything he's ever encountered.
But when Jackson is wounded by an attack from a demon god, Leo must team up with another supernatural creature-a Night Angel-to save his friend from utter destruction. With skin as black as midnight, hair as white as snow, and a body of pure perfection, the Night Angel arouses a burning desire in Leo, even as he refuses to be intimidated by her power-or the power of those who would destroy his friend. An unusual alliance is forged, electrified by sexual temptation, and together the two must unite their strengths to bring down a supreme evil.
As a mercenary, Leo Alvarez has signed on for a lot-but he never signed on for his best friend becoming host to the soul of an ancient Egyptian pharaoh. Jackson is now inhabited by a Bodywalker, and Leo is forced to grapple with a realm of supernatural beings far more dangerous than anything he's ever encountered.
But when Jackson is wounded by an attack from a demon god, Leo must team up with another supernatural creature-a Night Angel-to save his friend from utter destruction. With skin as black as midnight, hair as white as snow, and a body of pure perfection, the Night Angel arouses a burning desire in Leo, even as he refuses to be intimidated by her power-or the power of those who would destroy his friend. An unusual alliance is forged, electrified by sexual temptation, and together the two must unite their strengths to bring down a supreme evil.
370 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 14, 2013
37 people are currently reading
1962 people want to read
About the author
Jacquelyn Frank
85 books3,428 followersI live in Asheville NC and have written a book...or two...or is it ten?
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 153 reviews
March 25, 2015
I LOVE, love love this series, but for some reason this book didn't work for me like the previous ones :(
I guess what attracted me here was Egypt and pharaohs and everything, all that this book didn't have. :(
Plus, the way everything went between the main couple...
I just didn't buy it and their relationship wasn't interesting to me after that happened, so yeah.
The thing I liked was the fact that she's so different, and I mean really, really different, and the plot was interesting so at least that.
Still, I'm looking forward to the next book here :)
August 22, 2015
Forsaken is the third book in The World of Nightwalkers by Jacquelyn Frank and in this installment we read about Leo. In this unique story, Ms. Frank was able to once again create a whole new realm that takes our imagination to another level blending Egyptian history, paranormal, and the human world. I enjoyed that Ms. Frank was able to capture the pure raw emotions of Leo throughout the story allowing readers like myself to feel the experiences that Leo tackles in this book. Another great addition to the series!!!!
November 26, 2025
The Nightwalkers' world is expanding. In this installment, a Night Angel finds love in the most unlikely places, in the arms of the human, Leo Alvarez.
Jacquelyn Frank writes a wonderfully conflicted character in Leo. He loves and is loyal to his friend, but still resents and is unsure of the second spirit sharing his body. When his friend is seriously injured, Leo will pull out all the stops to save him.
Leo must deal with his prejudices as well as his growing feelings for the beautiful Night Angel who stands by his side in their quest. It is a tenuous alliance that slowly grows into sexual chemistry and friendship, but will Leo be able to give her his unwavering trust...their very survival counts on it.
Forsaken is a fabulous addition to The World of the Nightwalkers. It is sure to please any paranormal romance fan. With its action-intense scenes, humorous and witty dialogue and ignitable sexual tension, Forsaken made for an utterly entertaining read.
I received this ARC copy of Forsaken from Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine Books in exchange for an honest review. This book is set for publication on January 7, 2014.
Jacquelyn Frank writes a wonderfully conflicted character in Leo. He loves and is loyal to his friend, but still resents and is unsure of the second spirit sharing his body. When his friend is seriously injured, Leo will pull out all the stops to save him.
Leo must deal with his prejudices as well as his growing feelings for the beautiful Night Angel who stands by his side in their quest. It is a tenuous alliance that slowly grows into sexual chemistry and friendship, but will Leo be able to give her his unwavering trust...their very survival counts on it.
Forsaken is a fabulous addition to The World of the Nightwalkers. It is sure to please any paranormal romance fan. With its action-intense scenes, humorous and witty dialogue and ignitable sexual tension, Forsaken made for an utterly entertaining read.
I received this ARC copy of Forsaken from Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine Books in exchange for an honest review. This book is set for publication on January 7, 2014.
February 7, 2017
As the story of the Night Walkers continue, this is the story of Leo Alvarez and a Night Angel named Faith. She's beautiful, mysterious, strong and unique.
Leo loathes all supernatural beings and is weary of them all including his best friend Jackson and his dearest Docia. But certain events forces him to work together with Faith and he can't help but wonder and become attracted to her. Leo fights with all his might the attraction he feels for Faith and he realizes that he can't live without her though he is so jaded and feels that he is not good enough for her.
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Leo loathes all supernatural beings and is weary of them all including his best friend Jackson and his dearest Docia. But certain events forces him to work together with Faith and he can't help but wonder and become attracted to her. Leo fights with all his might the attraction he feels for Faith and he realizes that he can't live without her though he is so jaded and feels that he is not good enough for her.
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August 6, 2016
ORIGINAL POST AT MY BLOG FANGS, WANDS AND FAIRY DUST: http://fangswandsandfairydust.com/201...
Jacquelyn Frank’s FORSAKEN is a Richly Detailed Intersection
Disclosure: E-Galley provided by Publisher via NetGalley.com for review purposes. No remuneration was exchanged and all opinions expressed herein are my own unless otherwise noted.
I’ve read several of Jacquelyn Frank’s series now, and in my opinion this is the best of what I’ve read. I was immediately engaged in this blend of the Bodywalkers’ and Nightwalkers’ series. In fact, the Bodywalkers’ series takes place in the Nightwalkers’ world.
I was captivated by the Night Angel, a type of Nightwalker I had not seen before as she steps onto the Bodywalker stage. Her physical description is delicious. I like it when series intersect like this because it allows an easier suspension of disbelief by creating a larger world. It’s like learning a new language and then learning it is spoken in not one, but two countries.
I don’t know of any other author in the paranormal romance genre who writes such flowing internal monologues for her characters. Nor one who writes such emotionally rich internal landscapes. The story offers layer on layer of individual emotional travail, character interaction and plot.
It hasn’t always worked well for me but herein it works fabulously well.
These characters are walking paradoxes: confused, complicated, unsure, angry, loving, hating.
This combined world has depth, history, and it feels solid in its writer’s hands. She can even tell you the differences between a human’s and Night Angel’s vagina. Bodywalkers are ancient Egyptians who blend with host bodies and their personalities. Nightwalkers are species of supernaturals. The all live pretty much on this earth in our history, with an unaware human population.
It can be hard to grasp the idea of blended souls; it is for the human characters. One thing I don’t like in the blended ancient Egyptians is that the females always seem dependent on the males. Here, the two couples who have been reunited in blended souls take a backseat to the relationship between the human, Leo Alvarez and the Night Angel, Faith. In that way, it is more about the Nightwalkers than the Bodywalkers*. There are other plot points where the series intersect, and if you haven’t read any of the Nightwalkers series it may feel the slightest bit esoteric. But, it’s not too distracting.
I have to note that Frank unapologetically creates species and powers as they are needed. Sometimes this means a problem that seems insolvable is solved by the ubiquitous Deus Ex Machina. They serve a purpose in the writer’s arsenal of devices that I have come to accept as part of her style.
I really enjoyed the development of the relationship between this new couple. Leo is getting over a torture of such magnitude by a Bodywalker that he hates all supernatural beings, but he is also intensely loyal to his blended friends. Getting him through that is brings the couple together as he works out this intense prejudice. Frank really makes the painful emotional journey and his intellectual leaps palpable and powerful . This aspect of the story is the most thought provoking. I think most humans put up biases against emotional/intellectual turmoil. Try as we like, it is rare to find someone who doesn’t harbor some kind of bias and assumption.
Frank’s prose is often passionately purple enough to make me blush, but she really gets it right here, especially the kissing scenes. I loved this line in particular:
He Kissed her slow and deep, as though he were the chocolate of desire melting into her mouth.(loc 3956 – Kindle E-ARC)
My feelings towards Frank’s books have been uneven. I really like some and have had trouble with others. I really, really liked this one. Within the series it doesn’t stand on its own so I have to recommend it in context. But, I do HIGHLY recommend FORSAKEN.
Jacquelyn Frank’s FORSAKEN is a Richly Detailed Intersection
Disclosure: E-Galley provided by Publisher via NetGalley.com for review purposes. No remuneration was exchanged and all opinions expressed herein are my own unless otherwise noted.
I’ve read several of Jacquelyn Frank’s series now, and in my opinion this is the best of what I’ve read. I was immediately engaged in this blend of the Bodywalkers’ and Nightwalkers’ series. In fact, the Bodywalkers’ series takes place in the Nightwalkers’ world.
I was captivated by the Night Angel, a type of Nightwalker I had not seen before as she steps onto the Bodywalker stage. Her physical description is delicious. I like it when series intersect like this because it allows an easier suspension of disbelief by creating a larger world. It’s like learning a new language and then learning it is spoken in not one, but two countries.
I don’t know of any other author in the paranormal romance genre who writes such flowing internal monologues for her characters. Nor one who writes such emotionally rich internal landscapes. The story offers layer on layer of individual emotional travail, character interaction and plot.
It hasn’t always worked well for me but herein it works fabulously well.
These characters are walking paradoxes: confused, complicated, unsure, angry, loving, hating.
This combined world has depth, history, and it feels solid in its writer’s hands. She can even tell you the differences between a human’s and Night Angel’s vagina. Bodywalkers are ancient Egyptians who blend with host bodies and their personalities. Nightwalkers are species of supernaturals. The all live pretty much on this earth in our history, with an unaware human population.
It can be hard to grasp the idea of blended souls; it is for the human characters. One thing I don’t like in the blended ancient Egyptians is that the females always seem dependent on the males. Here, the two couples who have been reunited in blended souls take a backseat to the relationship between the human, Leo Alvarez and the Night Angel, Faith. In that way, it is more about the Nightwalkers than the Bodywalkers*. There are other plot points where the series intersect, and if you haven’t read any of the Nightwalkers series it may feel the slightest bit esoteric. But, it’s not too distracting.
I have to note that Frank unapologetically creates species and powers as they are needed. Sometimes this means a problem that seems insolvable is solved by the ubiquitous Deus Ex Machina. They serve a purpose in the writer’s arsenal of devices that I have come to accept as part of her style.
I really enjoyed the development of the relationship between this new couple. Leo is getting over a torture of such magnitude by a Bodywalker that he hates all supernatural beings, but he is also intensely loyal to his blended friends. Getting him through that is brings the couple together as he works out this intense prejudice. Frank really makes the painful emotional journey and his intellectual leaps palpable and powerful . This aspect of the story is the most thought provoking. I think most humans put up biases against emotional/intellectual turmoil. Try as we like, it is rare to find someone who doesn’t harbor some kind of bias and assumption.
Frank’s prose is often passionately purple enough to make me blush, but she really gets it right here, especially the kissing scenes. I loved this line in particular:
He Kissed her slow and deep, as though he were the chocolate of desire melting into her mouth.(loc 3956 – Kindle E-ARC)
My feelings towards Frank’s books have been uneven. I really like some and have had trouble with others. I really, really liked this one. Within the series it doesn’t stand on its own so I have to recommend it in context. But, I do HIGHLY recommend FORSAKEN.
January 6, 2014
4.5 Wonderful Stars
Review posted at:
http://romanceisoursecretpleasure.blo...
I LOVE this series and this book gives me:
And this book it really gave me Good Vibes.
Since the moment i discovered this series i was fascinated by the world Jacquelyn Frank created and i couldn't get enough of it. So when i saw this book of NetGalley i had to have it and i loved it but not as much as the others but it had nothing to do with the book it was just me. First of all i am not a big fan of books with angels and this was a first for me. But i wanted to read Leo story and i ignored thru the book that Faith was one and get over it.
From the previous book we know that Leo's best friend Jackson is the host to the Pharaoh Menes and cause of that he has been tortured to death and revived again and again, only for the reason the same thing to happen again.
Leo has a hard time to understand the new world he discovered and to connect with Jackson as he done in the past but when Jackson get's hurt he will do everything in his powers to save him even if he has to work with one of them. And that person is Faith, a Night Angel who comes in Jackson's aid when he get's hurt. Leo dose not like her but something strange happens to him when she is around. He hates the fact that he is attracted to her and that she can read him as an open book.
Faith has a hard time being around Leo cause she feels attracted to him but she doesn't like his away of thinking about their world and that he thinks everyone is bad cause of what they done to him.
But together they must find a way to save Jackson and most important they need to find a way to work together and understand each other.
Every time i read a book by this author she leaves absolutely gob smacked with her ability of writing. Her writing it's so flawless, fast paced and not dragged around on and on that you get bored whit the story. Overall this was a great book and i am looking forward to read the next one in this series.
If you love PNR books, you def need to give a go the the wonderful new world Jacquelyn Frank has created in her book. You wont regret it.
Recommend it Read
ARC courtesy to Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine
Review posted at:
http://romanceisoursecretpleasure.blo...
I LOVE this series and this book gives me:
And this book it really gave me Good Vibes.
Since the moment i discovered this series i was fascinated by the world Jacquelyn Frank created and i couldn't get enough of it. So when i saw this book of NetGalley i had to have it and i loved it but not as much as the others but it had nothing to do with the book it was just me. First of all i am not a big fan of books with angels and this was a first for me. But i wanted to read Leo story and i ignored thru the book that Faith was one and get over it.
From the previous book we know that Leo's best friend Jackson is the host to the Pharaoh Menes and cause of that he has been tortured to death and revived again and again, only for the reason the same thing to happen again.
Leo has a hard time to understand the new world he discovered and to connect with Jackson as he done in the past but when Jackson get's hurt he will do everything in his powers to save him even if he has to work with one of them. And that person is Faith, a Night Angel who comes in Jackson's aid when he get's hurt. Leo dose not like her but something strange happens to him when she is around. He hates the fact that he is attracted to her and that she can read him as an open book.
Faith has a hard time being around Leo cause she feels attracted to him but she doesn't like his away of thinking about their world and that he thinks everyone is bad cause of what they done to him.
But together they must find a way to save Jackson and most important they need to find a way to work together and understand each other.
Every time i read a book by this author she leaves absolutely gob smacked with her ability of writing. Her writing it's so flawless, fast paced and not dragged around on and on that you get bored whit the story. Overall this was a great book and i am looking forward to read the next one in this series.
If you love PNR books, you def need to give a go the the wonderful new world Jacquelyn Frank has created in her book. You wont regret it.
Recommend it Read
ARC courtesy to Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine
May 5, 2016
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
In Forsaken, we have the delectable story of our lovely Leo. Now in the previous books he has always been a bit elusive but I have loved his friendship with Jackson/Menes. But In this book we see how he is torn. He has just gone through a terrible ordeal of being tortured over and over again and despises Nightwalkers. Now that he is on the road to recovery, he has many things he needs to come to terms with including his best friend being a Nightwalker. But when Jackson is injured, he joins forces with a Night Angel and find a way to save his friends life. But he discovers a passionate love with the mysterious and beautiful Faith. They go on a journey together of excitement, danger and desire.
I had a blast with this book, and the reader goes through a variety of emotions with this one. Leo is a hero that just calls out to you. You see that the road to healing can be treacherous sometimes and difficult. And oh poor Jackson...he is one of my favorite characters of the series. So it broke my heart when you see what happens to him. But I adored Leo for having the courage to do what it takes to save his friends life even if he has mixed feelings about him. The romance between Leo and Faith was truly wonderful to see unravel. At first they have a chemistry but don't act on it till later. But I admired the way they come together at the right moment. A truly fascinating and thrilling tale to a fantastic series!!
[foogallery id="21393"]
In Forsaken, we have the delectable story of our lovely Leo. Now in the previous books he has always been a bit elusive but I have loved his friendship with Jackson/Menes. But In this book we see how he is torn. He has just gone through a terrible ordeal of being tortured over and over again and despises Nightwalkers. Now that he is on the road to recovery, he has many things he needs to come to terms with including his best friend being a Nightwalker. But when Jackson is injured, he joins forces with a Night Angel and find a way to save his friends life. But he discovers a passionate love with the mysterious and beautiful Faith. They go on a journey together of excitement, danger and desire.
I had a blast with this book, and the reader goes through a variety of emotions with this one. Leo is a hero that just calls out to you. You see that the road to healing can be treacherous sometimes and difficult. And oh poor Jackson...he is one of my favorite characters of the series. So it broke my heart when you see what happens to him. But I adored Leo for having the courage to do what it takes to save his friends life even if he has mixed feelings about him. The romance between Leo and Faith was truly wonderful to see unravel. At first they have a chemistry but don't act on it till later. But I admired the way they come together at the right moment. A truly fascinating and thrilling tale to a fantastic series!!
[foogallery id="21393"]
May 30, 2016
Shocking and could be traumatic for people sensitive to graphic visual images. Yucky parts
that made me shiver and pause reading. Had to shake nasty images away. Felt connected to
the main characters though. Good chemistry. Full of emotion the good, the bad and the ugly.
Really a very good read. 4 + stars!
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Spoiler
Note to Self: New Mexico
Leo Alvarez(mortal,ex Army Ranger,merc,torture survivor,pal)+Faith(Night Angel,Royal Princess,
eldest sis,311yo,messenger, reflector),
Jackson Waverley(older bro,Politic Bodywalker,Egyptian Pharaoh Menes,ex cop,pal)+Marissa Anderson (Politic Bodywalker,Egyptian Pharaoh Hatshepsut,ex psych),
Docia Waverley(younger sis,Templar Bodywalker Tameri,now Politic,pal1,pal)+Ram(Politic Bodywalker,Egyptian Pharaoh Ramses II,pal),
Ahnvil(Gargoyle,Politic guard,Kamen's ex-slave),
Kamenwati(Kamen,Templar priest Bodywalker),
SingSing(Djynn,pal1),
Max(mortal,Politic guard),
Angelina Anderson (mortal sis),
Grey(Marid Djynn,888yo,The Sultan of Western States,matchmaker),
Mystical(Pegasus,nik),
Dax(younger bro,Night Angel,rape survivor),
Desmond(822yo,her dad,leader Night Angels),
Dahlia(her sis,Night Angel heirophant,most powerful),
Balthazar(Dax's dad,Night Angel),
(her mom,leader Australian Night Angels),
Andy(Down Syndrome man).
that made me shiver and pause reading. Had to shake nasty images away. Felt connected to
the main characters though. Good chemistry. Full of emotion the good, the bad and the ugly.
Really a very good read. 4 + stars!
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Spoiler
Note to Self: New Mexico
Leo Alvarez(mortal,ex Army Ranger,merc,torture survivor,pal)+Faith(Night Angel,Royal Princess,
eldest sis,311yo,messenger, reflector),
Jackson Waverley(older bro,Politic Bodywalker,Egyptian Pharaoh Menes,ex cop,pal)+Marissa Anderson (Politic Bodywalker,Egyptian Pharaoh Hatshepsut,ex psych),
Docia Waverley(younger sis,Templar Bodywalker Tameri,now Politic,pal1,pal)+Ram(Politic Bodywalker,Egyptian Pharaoh Ramses II,pal),
Ahnvil(Gargoyle,Politic guard,Kamen's ex-slave),
Kamenwati(Kamen,Templar priest Bodywalker),
SingSing(Djynn,pal1),
Max(mortal,Politic guard),
Angelina Anderson (mortal sis),
Grey(Marid Djynn,888yo,The Sultan of Western States,matchmaker),
Mystical(Pegasus,nik),
Dax(younger bro,Night Angel,rape survivor),
Desmond(822yo,her dad,leader Night Angels),
Dahlia(her sis,Night Angel heirophant,most powerful),
Balthazar(Dax's dad,Night Angel),
(her mom,leader Australian Night Angels),
Andy(Down Syndrome man).
December 27, 2013
Review: Forsaken (The World of the Nightwalkers, Book 3) by Jacquelyn Frank
Publication Date: January 7, 2014
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Donna
Rated: 4.5 Stars
Blog post: http://wp.me/p3d0RZ-UB
REVIEW:
I loved this installment of the Nightwalker series. Leo, vulnerable, but with the strength and courage that makes a girl swoon and Faith with a tender caring heart along with the soul of a warrior. I am enjoying the Egyptian theme that also combines various other paranormal references. It had it all: Suspense, danger, excitement, lust, humor and of course hot romance. I would have scored it a 5, but Leo protected his heart a few pages too long for me. Ms. Frank knows how to reel a reader in and I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book.
*ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
BUY LINKS ➢ Kindle $5.99 http://amzn.to/K9AO6c | Amazon Paperback $7.19 http://amzn.to/1llAP2T | B&N $7.99 http://bit.ly/19t5hIq | Kobo $7.99 http://bit.ly/19t5n30
✦The World of Nightwalkers Series by Jacquelyn Frank ~ Reading Order✦
✦Book 1: Forbidden ➢ http://amzn.to/1fNkN0n
✦Book 2: Forever ➢ http://amzn.to/1hJS7GI
✦Book 3: Forsaken ➢ http://amzn.to/K9AO6c
✦Book 4: Forged (Coming April 29, 2014) ➢ http://amzn.to/1fNl1EL
Publication Date: January 7, 2014
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Donna
Rated: 4.5 Stars
Blog post: http://wp.me/p3d0RZ-UB
REVIEW:
I loved this installment of the Nightwalker series. Leo, vulnerable, but with the strength and courage that makes a girl swoon and Faith with a tender caring heart along with the soul of a warrior. I am enjoying the Egyptian theme that also combines various other paranormal references. It had it all: Suspense, danger, excitement, lust, humor and of course hot romance. I would have scored it a 5, but Leo protected his heart a few pages too long for me. Ms. Frank knows how to reel a reader in and I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book.
*ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
BUY LINKS ➢ Kindle $5.99 http://amzn.to/K9AO6c | Amazon Paperback $7.19 http://amzn.to/1llAP2T | B&N $7.99 http://bit.ly/19t5hIq | Kobo $7.99 http://bit.ly/19t5n30
✦The World of Nightwalkers Series by Jacquelyn Frank ~ Reading Order✦
✦Book 1: Forbidden ➢ http://amzn.to/1fNkN0n
✦Book 2: Forever ➢ http://amzn.to/1hJS7GI
✦Book 3: Forsaken ➢ http://amzn.to/K9AO6c
✦Book 4: Forged (Coming April 29, 2014) ➢ http://amzn.to/1fNl1EL
January 2, 2014
My mistake in this series was skipping the second book. I missed a whole chunk of info from the last book, so it seemed almost as if starting to watch a show from the middle & having to ask the people around you "Hey wait! When did that happen?"
Anyway, Jacquelyn Franks is an amazing writer with all kinds new lore in this book! A dark angel helps Leo find a Djinn who is a high up magical one after an imp who is a male looking like a beautiful woman blasts Jackson's soul apart & left unconscious dying.
Leo has to go through a self realization about his emotions after he was left a helpless victim of an attack by Chatha, a Templar whose host is suppressed, I'm thinking in the last book.
There is so much going on all the time, sometimes it may be hard to keep up. I had to go back a few times to reread parts. Most people are a host and entity together in one soul. I get confused by who is who sometimes. Sooo Just don't read it when you can have several distractions & you have to pick up where you left off. You will get lost.
Jacquelyn Frank is one of those authors who have proven herself. She's good & worthy of your read. I recommend it if you like the Egyptian mythology/God thing. It either is or isn't your thing.
Anyway, Jacquelyn Franks is an amazing writer with all kinds new lore in this book! A dark angel helps Leo find a Djinn who is a high up magical one after an imp who is a male looking like a beautiful woman blasts Jackson's soul apart & left unconscious dying.
Leo has to go through a self realization about his emotions after he was left a helpless victim of an attack by Chatha, a Templar whose host is suppressed, I'm thinking in the last book.
There is so much going on all the time, sometimes it may be hard to keep up. I had to go back a few times to reread parts. Most people are a host and entity together in one soul. I get confused by who is who sometimes. Sooo Just don't read it when you can have several distractions & you have to pick up where you left off. You will get lost.
Jacquelyn Frank is one of those authors who have proven herself. She's good & worthy of your read. I recommend it if you like the Egyptian mythology/God thing. It either is or isn't your thing.
February 18, 2014
Forsaken is the first book that I have read by Frank, and I really enjoyed it. Since this book is the first one that I have read in this series, it took me a little bit to familiarize myself with Frank's world and characters, but Frank does a good job at catching up new readers by thrusting them right into the middle of the action. Leo is recovering from a brutal assault and is distrustful of his friends, but when his friend, Jackson, is injured he doesn't think twice about stepping in to help. Faith goes with Leo on his mission to help his friend, and both characters learn that despite their differences they make a good team. I liked how Frank didn't shy away from showing Jackson dealing with the fallout of his attack, and I liked how she tied his budding relationship with Faith with his healing. Frank does an amazing job with the development of her two main characters, and she also introduces some great secondary characters that capture the reader's attention and interest. Overall Forsaken was a great read that I would definitely recommend if you are looking for a great paranormal romance. I look forward to reading more from this author.
Received a copy of Forsaken through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Received a copy of Forsaken through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 2, 2013
This book was not my cup of tea. It was confusing and disorienting. I have not previously read anything concerning the Nightwalkers or Bodywalkers and this concept was hard for me to grasp. The whole concept was confusing for me and I couldn't quite get a grasp on the mythology. I was bored and it was a chore to finish this book and I would probably not read another book by this writer only because it didn't really interest me. The lead characters were not that likable to me either. I couldn't connect with them and I had no interest in seeing their story resolved. Unfortunately this book was not for me but I am grateful I had the opportunity to review it.
I was provided a free copy of this book in exchange of an honest review.
February 28, 2014
**I received a copy in exchange for an unbiased and honest review**
Review:2.5 stars
General: I typically love the Nightwalkers series and Jacquelyn Frank's work. However I seem to be struggling a lot of with Bodywalkers. Please note that it is an impossibility to read this book without reading the other two first. Very little is explained and will add to the confusion. I absolutely love the concept behind them. Ancient Egypt has always been a love of mine and it was fantastic seeing it used and the concept is insanely original. The characters are also just as dynamic as every other she has ever written and the plots just as compelling. I love that this world has grown so much in the past (I think) five years. The species are always so enjoyable and the introduction of the Night Angels seems like it will be a fantastic one. I will say this novel started off with an immediate bang and I couldn't put it down...through the first chapter.
The biggest issue I have with the Bodywalkers stems from the concept itself. The way Rams and Menes spoke of their "hosts" was extremely degrading. With Marissa I got the feeling it was a mutual share but with the men it felt very much like possession and it got in the way of the storylines in all the books I've read from the series thus far. Also, while Jacquelyn Franks writing is impeccable the amount of confusion I felt in one chapter left me with a headache and I had to put the book down after chapter 3 and walk away for a few hours. What was so confusing? The characters switched names back and forth, sometimes referring to their host names and others to their Bodywalker names. It was an every few times sort of thing and wasn't like Jackson used Menes and Rams used Jackson - it flip flopped to the point that I had no idea who was who in 90% of the first 3 chapters until I got a hang of it. The other was the insane amount of POV hoping. I think 4 narrators in a chapter is absolutely insane and way to difficult to follow as a reader, it is occurring more and more though so I'm starting to wonder if it is a new trend.
Then there was the problem with the plot. The book was flowing well in the beginning and then suddenly after the failed mission there was a time jump that while justified, felt forced and like there was no other way to move the story forward. From that point the story got very unoriginal plot wise and it conflicted with the fantastic world that was written. I will also say the characters were dynamic but I couldn't stand the pairing or Leo in general and really loved him in Jackson/Marissa's book. I love the world that has been built and have every intention of continuing to read with Forbidden next month, every author can have a miss.
Characters: Faith- Faith was the likable of the characters for me. She was very exotic looking and had an interesting outlook on the world from her life and the rules of being a Night Angel. She was kind and also very alien at times, especially in the beginning. It added a level of mystic to here and I found that compelling. As for her match with Leo - I felt nothing between them the entire time and was sad because I love Docia and Rams together and didn't dislike Marissa and Jackson, there was almost no fizzle between them that didn't feel forced.
Leo- Leo had my heart most of the last book, it ended there. I understand after the transformation of Jackson and his torture he would be a cranky jerk. But he was worse than that he was rude and bigoted beyond belief to the point that he became a boring and annoying broken record. Then there was the "lets erase everything and make it ok" moment that happened in the book to give him a connection to Faith. Overall he was such a miss to me after being such a great role prior.
Review:2.5 stars
General: I typically love the Nightwalkers series and Jacquelyn Frank's work. However I seem to be struggling a lot of with Bodywalkers. Please note that it is an impossibility to read this book without reading the other two first. Very little is explained and will add to the confusion. I absolutely love the concept behind them. Ancient Egypt has always been a love of mine and it was fantastic seeing it used and the concept is insanely original. The characters are also just as dynamic as every other she has ever written and the plots just as compelling. I love that this world has grown so much in the past (I think) five years. The species are always so enjoyable and the introduction of the Night Angels seems like it will be a fantastic one. I will say this novel started off with an immediate bang and I couldn't put it down...through the first chapter.
The biggest issue I have with the Bodywalkers stems from the concept itself. The way Rams and Menes spoke of their "hosts" was extremely degrading. With Marissa I got the feeling it was a mutual share but with the men it felt very much like possession and it got in the way of the storylines in all the books I've read from the series thus far. Also, while Jacquelyn Franks writing is impeccable the amount of confusion I felt in one chapter left me with a headache and I had to put the book down after chapter 3 and walk away for a few hours. What was so confusing? The characters switched names back and forth, sometimes referring to their host names and others to their Bodywalker names. It was an every few times sort of thing and wasn't like Jackson used Menes and Rams used Jackson - it flip flopped to the point that I had no idea who was who in 90% of the first 3 chapters until I got a hang of it. The other was the insane amount of POV hoping. I think 4 narrators in a chapter is absolutely insane and way to difficult to follow as a reader, it is occurring more and more though so I'm starting to wonder if it is a new trend.
Then there was the problem with the plot. The book was flowing well in the beginning and then suddenly after the failed mission there was a time jump that while justified, felt forced and like there was no other way to move the story forward. From that point the story got very unoriginal plot wise and it conflicted with the fantastic world that was written. I will also say the characters were dynamic but I couldn't stand the pairing or Leo in general and really loved him in Jackson/Marissa's book. I love the world that has been built and have every intention of continuing to read with Forbidden next month, every author can have a miss.
Characters: Faith- Faith was the likable of the characters for me. She was very exotic looking and had an interesting outlook on the world from her life and the rules of being a Night Angel. She was kind and also very alien at times, especially in the beginning. It added a level of mystic to here and I found that compelling. As for her match with Leo - I felt nothing between them the entire time and was sad because I love Docia and Rams together and didn't dislike Marissa and Jackson, there was almost no fizzle between them that didn't feel forced.
Leo- Leo had my heart most of the last book, it ended there. I understand after the transformation of Jackson and his torture he would be a cranky jerk. But he was worse than that he was rude and bigoted beyond belief to the point that he became a boring and annoying broken record. Then there was the "lets erase everything and make it ok" moment that happened in the book to give him a connection to Faith. Overall he was such a miss to me after being such a great role prior.
December 14, 2013
Forsaken is the third book in the World of Nightwalkers series by Jacquelyn Frank and is scheduled for release on January 7 2014. I would highly suggest reading this series in order (Forbidden is first, Forever is second) rather than jumping in here, only because the Nightwalkers used in this series are not ones that are well know. Getting the groundwork of the mythology here will help readers get lost in the story rather than trying to figure out the particulars as they go. Frank does do a good job of getting the needed information in there, so newcomers can enjoy the book, however I think it would be a more satisfying read if approached in order.
In Forsaken, mercenary Leo Alvarez is recovering from torture, discovering the paranormal world around him, and dealing with the fact that his best friend Jackson and the woman he considers like a daughter have become host to ancient Egyptian soul. The idea of Jackson being host to a Bodywalker, the same sort of creature that tortured Leo, is hard for him to handle and has made him distrustful of anything not completely human. But the damage is not yet done, while under attack Jackson is severely injured and a Night Angel (new creature to all of us) arrives and does what she can. Leo and the Angel, Faith, embark of a journey to get help from the only kind of magic that might be able to save Jackson. While on a mission the pair struggle with Leo's distrust of all supernatural creatures, mutual attraction, and self doubt from both. Their unusual alliance is forged, electrified by sexual temptation, and together the two must unite their strengths to bring down a supreme evil.
I am typically a fan of Frank's writing. Forsaken was a solid addition to this series, but it is not my favorite book from her. Leo is a man struggling with himself. He is a mercenary with a stringent code of honor, afraid that he might cross the line. He needs to deal with what has been done to him while facing the facts about the sheer numbers and power involved in the supernatural aspects of the world around him. Faith is a Night Angel, a Nightwalker race we have not met before, and one that I think will play a big part in the future. Faith can see the thoughts and emotions of those they can see, and somehow she still is not infallible. I liked that the two were flawed, and had to come to grips with themselves before even considering coming together. The moments with the Jinn and some of the side stories within the book offered more questions than answers, though I have faith that Frank will resolved those in the near future.
I would recommend Forsaken to fans of the World of Nightwalkers series, and this series as a whole to those that enjoyed Frank's other books. While this was not what I think of as the best example of Frank's writing, it was still a good read and on that set up much of the drama and conflict that will be dealt with as the story continues.
In Forsaken, mercenary Leo Alvarez is recovering from torture, discovering the paranormal world around him, and dealing with the fact that his best friend Jackson and the woman he considers like a daughter have become host to ancient Egyptian soul. The idea of Jackson being host to a Bodywalker, the same sort of creature that tortured Leo, is hard for him to handle and has made him distrustful of anything not completely human. But the damage is not yet done, while under attack Jackson is severely injured and a Night Angel (new creature to all of us) arrives and does what she can. Leo and the Angel, Faith, embark of a journey to get help from the only kind of magic that might be able to save Jackson. While on a mission the pair struggle with Leo's distrust of all supernatural creatures, mutual attraction, and self doubt from both. Their unusual alliance is forged, electrified by sexual temptation, and together the two must unite their strengths to bring down a supreme evil.
I am typically a fan of Frank's writing. Forsaken was a solid addition to this series, but it is not my favorite book from her. Leo is a man struggling with himself. He is a mercenary with a stringent code of honor, afraid that he might cross the line. He needs to deal with what has been done to him while facing the facts about the sheer numbers and power involved in the supernatural aspects of the world around him. Faith is a Night Angel, a Nightwalker race we have not met before, and one that I think will play a big part in the future. Faith can see the thoughts and emotions of those they can see, and somehow she still is not infallible. I liked that the two were flawed, and had to come to grips with themselves before even considering coming together. The moments with the Jinn and some of the side stories within the book offered more questions than answers, though I have faith that Frank will resolved those in the near future.
I would recommend Forsaken to fans of the World of Nightwalkers series, and this series as a whole to those that enjoyed Frank's other books. While this was not what I think of as the best example of Frank's writing, it was still a good read and on that set up much of the drama and conflict that will be dealt with as the story continues.
October 5, 2016
Fascinating new characters added to this new installment of the Nightwalkers. With it all taking place in the new World of the Nightwalker races. I had to take a break in between my readings to go back and get reacquainted with the various series leading up to this one. I loved all the characters and now that they are coming together under one roof (so to speak). Things are getting very interesting.
Franks gives it to me again. This time I get Leo and there was no holding him back. Even with all the odds that were stacked against him. He did not give in or give up. He was out of his realm of realness but he was still aware of what it took to get the job done. I was caught up in how he would continue to fit into the world that his best friend, Jackson/Menes and his best friend’s little sister, Docia, were now part of. He loved them as family and protected them just as fiercely. His loyalty and bond was what got him through the tough parts of it all.
Not once through any of this did he ever consider that he too would meet someone that would love him with the same devotion and intensity. So it was safe to say that he never ever considered that she would be a part of the new world he became acquainted with. Leo had a lot to overcome and come to a resolve of. Do he? Won’t he? Should he? Could he? There were a lot of questions gathering steam and slowly each was answered.
One kindhearted, strong-willed, opinionated Night Angel showed him there was more to the world than just getting the job done.
This third installment of the Nightwalker World has added another element that has intensified the playing field.
Franks gives it to me again. This time I get Leo and there was no holding him back. Even with all the odds that were stacked against him. He did not give in or give up. He was out of his realm of realness but he was still aware of what it took to get the job done. I was caught up in how he would continue to fit into the world that his best friend, Jackson/Menes and his best friend’s little sister, Docia, were now part of. He loved them as family and protected them just as fiercely. His loyalty and bond was what got him through the tough parts of it all.
Not once through any of this did he ever consider that he too would meet someone that would love him with the same devotion and intensity. So it was safe to say that he never ever considered that she would be a part of the new world he became acquainted with. Leo had a lot to overcome and come to a resolve of. Do he? Won’t he? Should he? Could he? There were a lot of questions gathering steam and slowly each was answered.
One kindhearted, strong-willed, opinionated Night Angel showed him there was more to the world than just getting the job done.
This third installment of the Nightwalker World has added another element that has intensified the playing field.
October 14, 2013
3.5 stars. Which I hate to give to a book by Frank.
I will continue to buy Franks book, but this particular book in this series is not my favorite. I can usually finish one of her books in a couple of hours, but I felt like this kind of dragged on. I loved the characters for sure. The plot was interesting as well. I am not sure why this book didn't do it for me, but it didn't.
Leo was wounded and damaged. Maybe too damaged for too long. Faith was sweet and almost perfect. I loved them together. My heart was squeezed during the djynn part (I won't spoil). The beginning was hard to read, the end was much better. Again, this wasn't my favorite by her, but I will still keep reading!
I was provided a copy in exchange for my honest review.
I will continue to buy Franks book, but this particular book in this series is not my favorite. I can usually finish one of her books in a couple of hours, but I felt like this kind of dragged on. I loved the characters for sure. The plot was interesting as well. I am not sure why this book didn't do it for me, but it didn't.
Leo was wounded and damaged. Maybe too damaged for too long. Faith was sweet and almost perfect. I loved them together. My heart was squeezed during the djynn part (I won't spoil). The beginning was hard to read, the end was much better. Again, this wasn't my favorite by her, but I will still keep reading!
I was provided a copy in exchange for my honest review.
January 7, 2019
Recensione INEDITO
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Il personaggio di Leo è quello che mi è piaciuto di più, un umano con i cosiddetti attributi, nonostante tutto quello che ha passato, una testa calda, che però conosce il vero valore dell’amicizia ed è disposto ad affrontare i suoi demoni interiori e, in questo caso anche reali, per salvare un amico in pericolo.
Perché è così importante questo aspetto del carattere di Leo? Perché nonostante il suo odio per le creature soprannaturali, o la sua indifferenza nei confronti delle regole e della legge, per lui il suo legame con Jackson è così forte da essere disposto a rischiare la sua vita. Pur sapendo che il suo amico non è più quello di prima, e che forse potrebbe non esistere più un Jackson all’interno di quel corpo.
La trama è ricca di colpi di scena e “trucchetti”, che questa autrice ogni tanto ama tirar fuori dalla sua penna, creando scenari catastrofici, dai quali i personaggi potrebbero essere travolti; in questo caso, anche se sono realtà ipotetiche, hanno comunque una grossa influenza nella storia che sta nascendo tra Leo e la Night Angel.
Incomincia lo scontro tra Menes e i suoi nemici, e ci troviamo di fronte non solo a Bodywalkers, ma anche ad altre creature soprannaturali, come Gargoyle , che sinceramente non ho incontrato spesso nelle mie letture, Jiin e Night Angel.
Finalmente, lasciatemelo dire, in questo libro si ha un barlume della coppia Menes/Hatshepsut, del loro amore immenso al di là del tempo e degli ospiti umani.
La Night Angel, Faith, che è la protagonista femminile del libro, non mi ha molto impressionato, eccezion fatta per le meravigliose descrizioni sul suo aspetto.
Al contrario, sono rimasta colpita dai cattivi di turno Chatha e Apep, e alcune scelte di Ms Frank le ho trovate inquietanti.
“Forsaken” è per ora il libro che preferisco in questa nuova serie “The World of Nightwalkers” di Jacquelyn Frank, anche se a mio parere non è allo stesso livello dei “Nightwalkers”, manca qualcosa, i personaggi dei Bodywalkers non riescono a prendermi totalmente, peccano forse di un po’ di carisma e infatti il personaggio che mi ha colpito di più in questo racconto è l’unico interamente umano.
Vedremo cosa succederà nel prossimo libro… questa volta la Frank non ha lasciato indizi su chi potrebbe esserne il protagonista o la protagonista.
.
Il personaggio di Leo è quello che mi è piaciuto di più, un umano con i cosiddetti attributi, nonostante tutto quello che ha passato, una testa calda, che però conosce il vero valore dell’amicizia ed è disposto ad affrontare i suoi demoni interiori e, in questo caso anche reali, per salvare un amico in pericolo.
Perché è così importante questo aspetto del carattere di Leo? Perché nonostante il suo odio per le creature soprannaturali, o la sua indifferenza nei confronti delle regole e della legge, per lui il suo legame con Jackson è così forte da essere disposto a rischiare la sua vita. Pur sapendo che il suo amico non è più quello di prima, e che forse potrebbe non esistere più un Jackson all’interno di quel corpo.
La trama è ricca di colpi di scena e “trucchetti”, che questa autrice ogni tanto ama tirar fuori dalla sua penna, creando scenari catastrofici, dai quali i personaggi potrebbero essere travolti; in questo caso, anche se sono realtà ipotetiche, hanno comunque una grossa influenza nella storia che sta nascendo tra Leo e la Night Angel.
Incomincia lo scontro tra Menes e i suoi nemici, e ci troviamo di fronte non solo a Bodywalkers, ma anche ad altre creature soprannaturali, come Gargoyle , che sinceramente non ho incontrato spesso nelle mie letture, Jiin e Night Angel.
Finalmente, lasciatemelo dire, in questo libro si ha un barlume della coppia Menes/Hatshepsut, del loro amore immenso al di là del tempo e degli ospiti umani.
La Night Angel, Faith, che è la protagonista femminile del libro, non mi ha molto impressionato, eccezion fatta per le meravigliose descrizioni sul suo aspetto.
Al contrario, sono rimasta colpita dai cattivi di turno Chatha e Apep, e alcune scelte di Ms Frank le ho trovate inquietanti.
“Forsaken” è per ora il libro che preferisco in questa nuova serie “The World of Nightwalkers” di Jacquelyn Frank, anche se a mio parere non è allo stesso livello dei “Nightwalkers”, manca qualcosa, i personaggi dei Bodywalkers non riescono a prendermi totalmente, peccano forse di un po’ di carisma e infatti il personaggio che mi ha colpito di più in questo racconto è l’unico interamente umano.
Vedremo cosa succederà nel prossimo libro… questa volta la Frank non ha lasciato indizi su chi potrebbe esserne il protagonista o la protagonista.
January 27, 2014
As a lover of paranormal romance and urban fantasy, I was immediately interested in this series. I had heard of this author before, but had never read any of her books.
The premise of this series, as well as the original one, is fascinating. Several supernatural races of beings, known as Nightwalkers, exist side by side with humans, who are completely unaware that such beings walk the planet. Among these races are the Bodywalkers, humans who serve as hosts to the souls of ancient and very powerful Pharaohs. I did find this concept rather creepy initially, especially when I discovered that the soul of the original inhabitant was supposed to "blend" with that of the new entity. In spite of this, I decided to delve into the story, to see just why Ms. Frank is a New York Times bestselling author.
I definitely found out why! Her characters are so well-drawn, the reader starts to think of them as people who might be friends, or even family. The writing is tight and the plot very well developed. And the world-building.....the world-building is magnificent, to say the least!
There are not only Bodywalkers, but Gargoyles who can be flesh-and-blood people alternatively with their stone selves, Djynn of different orders and powers, Mysticals, Shadowdwellers, Vampires, Lycanthropes, and Night Angels such as Faith, who teams up with Leo Alvarez, the central character, in order to save his friend, Jackson Waverly, after the latter is viciously attacked by the evil god, Apep, and left barely hanging on to his life. Then there are the evil Templar Bodywalkers, who, instead of blending with their hosts' souls, ruthlessly suppress and dominate them.
I was pleasantly surprised to find a Hispanic as one of the main characters in the book. Leo is a man of Mexican descent, a man of explosive emotions, as well as a very good heart. His concern for Jackson, whose sister, Docia, he helped raise, is very touching. Although he has been badly scarred in his encounters with Chatha, a Templar Bodywalker, he strives to put this aside, and do everything he can to save his friend's life.
Faith, the Night Angel, is a very sweet, unassuming character, in spite of the power she obviously possesses. The members of her race have the strange ability to see 'scrolls', which is what they call the beacon of light emanated by every human being, in which Night Angels can read the words that accompany the humans' emotions and thoughts. I find this to be a fascinating, and very original, concept! Faith can immediately see that Leo is a damaged soul. It's her compassion for him, as well as her patience, that slowly helps to heal his tormented emotions, throughout the course of the novel.
The romance between Leo and Faith blossoms rather rapidly shortly after they are thrown together, thanks to the intervention of a very powerful Djynn. Leo was a badly scarred man -- not only physically, but emotionally, so I tried hard not to dislike him in spite of the way he treated Faith at first. After all, his hatred of all supernatural beings was understandable, because of his earlier experiences with Chatha.
Interestingly, the author contrasted Leo's prejudice against the Nightwalkers with his own experiences with prejudice toward Hispanics. I thought this was a very powerful statement on the author's part. I was happy to see that Leo came to realize the irony of hating the Nightwalkers when he himself had experienced such hatred. This realization really hit home after he was reminded by Faith that not all Nightwalkers are as evil as Chatha, whom the author identifies as a psychopath.
Once Leo realizes what a kind, gentle being Faith is, and how selflessly she throws herself into danger just so she can help him, their romance becomes a truly beautiful thing. They are not only a team in the sense that they're both committed to helping save Jackson's life. They become a solid couple as well, and Leo begins to treat her with the tenderness she deserves.
This is the third book in the World of the Nightwalkers series. Still, this novel reads quite well as a stand-alone. Frank doesn't spend countless pages repeating information from the earlier books, and she uses her characters to inform her readers about how her supernatural world works. She does this very skillfully, too, so the reader never feels bored, or loaded with tons of information.
The romance, of course, is very sensual, but this is not 'casual sex'; it's obviously laced with the couple's care for each other. Leo never uses Faith simply to consummate his passion, and it's clear that Faith has fallen in love with him long before he's willing to admit that he has fallen in love with her, as well.
Even though I very much enjoyed reading this book, I did have a couple of issues with it.
The first was the opening scene, in which the violence was very graphically described. It was a dream in which Leo was reliving a horrible, real experience with the evil Chatha. If you're very squeamish, like me, you might want to skip the first pages of Chapter One, and head straight to page 5, beginning with the paragraph that starts with the sentence, "Leo awoke with a savage shout, his body lurching out of bed...."
Another issue I have with the novel is the very frequent use of profanity. The 'F bomb' is dropped very, very often. There are readers, of course, who are not at all put off by these things, so they will be able to enjoy the story without cringing every time they encounter this type of language.
In spite of the above objections, I do think that this is a very well-written novel, with great characters, terrific world-building, and a fascinating plot that holds a reader's interest all the way to the end. Paranormal romance and urban fantasy fans will definitely love this novel, and fans of Jacquelyn Frank will not be disappointed. Frank can tell a very compelling story, and she is definitely a master of this exciting genre!
The premise of this series, as well as the original one, is fascinating. Several supernatural races of beings, known as Nightwalkers, exist side by side with humans, who are completely unaware that such beings walk the planet. Among these races are the Bodywalkers, humans who serve as hosts to the souls of ancient and very powerful Pharaohs. I did find this concept rather creepy initially, especially when I discovered that the soul of the original inhabitant was supposed to "blend" with that of the new entity. In spite of this, I decided to delve into the story, to see just why Ms. Frank is a New York Times bestselling author.
I definitely found out why! Her characters are so well-drawn, the reader starts to think of them as people who might be friends, or even family. The writing is tight and the plot very well developed. And the world-building.....the world-building is magnificent, to say the least!
There are not only Bodywalkers, but Gargoyles who can be flesh-and-blood people alternatively with their stone selves, Djynn of different orders and powers, Mysticals, Shadowdwellers, Vampires, Lycanthropes, and Night Angels such as Faith, who teams up with Leo Alvarez, the central character, in order to save his friend, Jackson Waverly, after the latter is viciously attacked by the evil god, Apep, and left barely hanging on to his life. Then there are the evil Templar Bodywalkers, who, instead of blending with their hosts' souls, ruthlessly suppress and dominate them.
I was pleasantly surprised to find a Hispanic as one of the main characters in the book. Leo is a man of Mexican descent, a man of explosive emotions, as well as a very good heart. His concern for Jackson, whose sister, Docia, he helped raise, is very touching. Although he has been badly scarred in his encounters with Chatha, a Templar Bodywalker, he strives to put this aside, and do everything he can to save his friend's life.
Faith, the Night Angel, is a very sweet, unassuming character, in spite of the power she obviously possesses. The members of her race have the strange ability to see 'scrolls', which is what they call the beacon of light emanated by every human being, in which Night Angels can read the words that accompany the humans' emotions and thoughts. I find this to be a fascinating, and very original, concept! Faith can immediately see that Leo is a damaged soul. It's her compassion for him, as well as her patience, that slowly helps to heal his tormented emotions, throughout the course of the novel.
The romance between Leo and Faith blossoms rather rapidly shortly after they are thrown together, thanks to the intervention of a very powerful Djynn. Leo was a badly scarred man -- not only physically, but emotionally, so I tried hard not to dislike him in spite of the way he treated Faith at first. After all, his hatred of all supernatural beings was understandable, because of his earlier experiences with Chatha.
Interestingly, the author contrasted Leo's prejudice against the Nightwalkers with his own experiences with prejudice toward Hispanics. I thought this was a very powerful statement on the author's part. I was happy to see that Leo came to realize the irony of hating the Nightwalkers when he himself had experienced such hatred. This realization really hit home after he was reminded by Faith that not all Nightwalkers are as evil as Chatha, whom the author identifies as a psychopath.
Once Leo realizes what a kind, gentle being Faith is, and how selflessly she throws herself into danger just so she can help him, their romance becomes a truly beautiful thing. They are not only a team in the sense that they're both committed to helping save Jackson's life. They become a solid couple as well, and Leo begins to treat her with the tenderness she deserves.
This is the third book in the World of the Nightwalkers series. Still, this novel reads quite well as a stand-alone. Frank doesn't spend countless pages repeating information from the earlier books, and she uses her characters to inform her readers about how her supernatural world works. She does this very skillfully, too, so the reader never feels bored, or loaded with tons of information.
The romance, of course, is very sensual, but this is not 'casual sex'; it's obviously laced with the couple's care for each other. Leo never uses Faith simply to consummate his passion, and it's clear that Faith has fallen in love with him long before he's willing to admit that he has fallen in love with her, as well.
Even though I very much enjoyed reading this book, I did have a couple of issues with it.
The first was the opening scene, in which the violence was very graphically described. It was a dream in which Leo was reliving a horrible, real experience with the evil Chatha. If you're very squeamish, like me, you might want to skip the first pages of Chapter One, and head straight to page 5, beginning with the paragraph that starts with the sentence, "Leo awoke with a savage shout, his body lurching out of bed...."
Another issue I have with the novel is the very frequent use of profanity. The 'F bomb' is dropped very, very often. There are readers, of course, who are not at all put off by these things, so they will be able to enjoy the story without cringing every time they encounter this type of language.
In spite of the above objections, I do think that this is a very well-written novel, with great characters, terrific world-building, and a fascinating plot that holds a reader's interest all the way to the end. Paranormal romance and urban fantasy fans will definitely love this novel, and fans of Jacquelyn Frank will not be disappointed. Frank can tell a very compelling story, and she is definitely a master of this exciting genre!
November 15, 2013
Forsaken is my favorite book in this new series The World of Nightwalkers by Jacquelyn Frank, at the moment, though, in my opinion, is not at the same level as the previous Nightwalkers series, it's missing something, the characters of Bodywalkers fail to get me totally, perhaps a lack of a little bit of charisma.
The Bodywalkers, for those who hadn't read the previous books, are immortal creatures living without a body form in a timeless place, waiting to find a mortal as a host in which they can reincarnated, as long as the chosen subject is willing to co-exist his soul with that of the immortal.
As a mercenary, Leo Alvarez has signed on for a lot—but he never signed on for his best friend becoming host to the soul of an ancient Egyptian pharaoh. Jackson is now inhabited by a Bodywalker, and Leo is forced to grapple with a realm of supernatural beings far more dangerous than anything he’s ever encountered.
But when Jackson is wounded by an attack from a demon god, Leo must team up with another supernatural creature—a Night Angel—to save his friend from utter destruction. With skin as black as midnight, hair as white as snow, and a body of pure perfection, the Night Angel arouses a burning desire in Leo, even as he refuses to be intimidated by her power—or the power of those who would destroy his friend. An unusual alliance is forged, electrified by sexual temptation, and together the two must unite their strengths to bring down a supreme evil.
Leo's character is what I liked most, a human with so-called attributes, despite everything that he has passed; a hotheaded, but he knows the true value of friendship and he is willing to face his inner demons and, in this case, even real, to save a friend from danger.
The plot is full of twists and "tricks" that Ms Frank brings to us readers, creating catastrophic scenarios, from which the characters could be overwhelmed, a bit like Adam in the book of the Nightwalkers.
Finally you have a true glimpse of the couple Menes/Hatshepsut and their immense love beyond time and human hosts.
The Night Angel, descriptions aside of her gorgeous appearance, didn't impressed me very much as the female protagonist.
What has done, on the other hand, the bad guys Chatha and Apep: some Ms Frank's choices I found scary and not very pleasant, but then I was going to tell you that the bad guys were not quite so bad, then I shiver in silence.
A question for me remained, and I don't know if it's a forgotten by the author, or a way to leave something else pending, along with other things: what is the price to be paid to the Jinn by Leo for his wish?
Special thanks to Nergalley and the Random House Publishing Group-Ballantines Books for the kind preview.
Forsaken è per ora il libro che preferisco in questa nuova serie The World of Nightwalkers di Jacquelyn Frank, anche se, a mio parere, non è allo stesso livello della precedente serie dei Nightwalkers, manca qualcosa, i personaggi dei Bodywalkers non riescono a prendermi totalmente, peccano un po' di carisma.
I Bodywalkers, per chi non avesse letto i libri precedenti, sono creature immortali che vivono sotto forma incorporea in un luogo senza tempo, in attesa di trovare un ospite mortale nel quale reincarnarsi, sempre che il soggetto prescelto sia disposto a far coesistere la propria anima con quella dell'immortale.
Come mercenario Leo Alvarez ha visto ogni sorta di cose... ma non si sarebbe mai aspettato che il suo migliore amico diventasse l'ospite dell'anima di un antico Faraone d'Egitto. In Jackson adesso coabita un Bodywalker e Leo è obbligato a fare i conti una la realtà nella quale sono presenti creature soprannaturali, che sono molto più pericolose di qualunque cosa abbia mai incontrato.
Ma quando Jackson rimane ferito durante l'attacco di un dio demone, Leo deve allearsi a un'altra creatura soprannaturale, una Night Angel, per salvare il suo amico. Con la sua pelle nera come la notte, i capelli bianchi come la neve e il suo corpo che è pure perfezione, la Night Angel risveglia in Leo un desiderio bruciante, ma si rifiuta di lasciarsi intimidire dai suoi poteri o da quelli di chi vuole distruggere il suo amico. Nasce un'insolita alleanza, carica di tensione sessuale, ma i due devono unire le loro forze per sconfiggere un male superiore.
Il personaggio di Leo è quello che mi è piaciuto di più, un umano con i cosiddetti attributi, nonostante tutto quello che ha passato; una testa calda, che però conosce il vero valore dell'amicizia ed è disposto ad affrontare i suoi demoni interiori e, in questo caso, anche reali per salvare un amico in pericolo.
La trama è ricca di colpi di scena e " giochetti" che l'autrice tira a noi lettori, creando scenari catastrofici, dai quali i personaggi potrebbero essere travolti, un po' come nel libro Adam dei Nightwalkers.
Finalmente si ha un barlume della coppia Menes/Hatshepsut, del loro amore immenso al di là del tempo e degli ospiti umani.
La Night Angel , descrizioni a parte del suo aspetto che è veramente spettacolare, non mi ha molto impressionato come protagonista femminile.
Cosa che ha fatto, invece, i cattivi di turno Chatha e Apep: alcune scelte di Ms Frank le ho trovate inquietanti e poco gradevoli, ma poi vi avrei detto che il cattivo di turno non lo era abbastanza, quindi rabbrividisco in silenzio.
Un interrogativo mi è rimasto, e non so se è una dimenticanza della autrice, o un modo di lasciare un'altra cosa in sospeso, insieme ad altre: ma qual è il prezzo da pagare al Jinn da parte di Leo per il suo desiderio?
Si ringrazia Nergalley e la Random House Publishing Group-Ballantines Books per la gentile preview.
The Bodywalkers, for those who hadn't read the previous books, are immortal creatures living without a body form in a timeless place, waiting to find a mortal as a host in which they can reincarnated, as long as the chosen subject is willing to co-exist his soul with that of the immortal.
As a mercenary, Leo Alvarez has signed on for a lot—but he never signed on for his best friend becoming host to the soul of an ancient Egyptian pharaoh. Jackson is now inhabited by a Bodywalker, and Leo is forced to grapple with a realm of supernatural beings far more dangerous than anything he’s ever encountered.
But when Jackson is wounded by an attack from a demon god, Leo must team up with another supernatural creature—a Night Angel—to save his friend from utter destruction. With skin as black as midnight, hair as white as snow, and a body of pure perfection, the Night Angel arouses a burning desire in Leo, even as he refuses to be intimidated by her power—or the power of those who would destroy his friend. An unusual alliance is forged, electrified by sexual temptation, and together the two must unite their strengths to bring down a supreme evil.
Leo's character is what I liked most, a human with so-called attributes, despite everything that he has passed; a hotheaded, but he knows the true value of friendship and he is willing to face his inner demons and, in this case, even real, to save a friend from danger.
The plot is full of twists and "tricks" that Ms Frank brings to us readers, creating catastrophic scenarios, from which the characters could be overwhelmed, a bit like Adam in the book of the Nightwalkers.
Finally you have a true glimpse of the couple Menes/Hatshepsut and their immense love beyond time and human hosts.
The Night Angel, descriptions aside of her gorgeous appearance, didn't impressed me very much as the female protagonist.
What has done, on the other hand, the bad guys Chatha and Apep: some Ms Frank's choices I found scary and not very pleasant, but then I was going to tell you that the bad guys were not quite so bad, then I shiver in silence.
A question for me remained, and I don't know if it's a forgotten by the author, or a way to leave something else pending, along with other things: what is the price to be paid to the Jinn by Leo for his wish?
Special thanks to Nergalley and the Random House Publishing Group-Ballantines Books for the kind preview.
Forsaken è per ora il libro che preferisco in questa nuova serie The World of Nightwalkers di Jacquelyn Frank, anche se, a mio parere, non è allo stesso livello della precedente serie dei Nightwalkers, manca qualcosa, i personaggi dei Bodywalkers non riescono a prendermi totalmente, peccano un po' di carisma.
I Bodywalkers, per chi non avesse letto i libri precedenti, sono creature immortali che vivono sotto forma incorporea in un luogo senza tempo, in attesa di trovare un ospite mortale nel quale reincarnarsi, sempre che il soggetto prescelto sia disposto a far coesistere la propria anima con quella dell'immortale.
Come mercenario Leo Alvarez ha visto ogni sorta di cose... ma non si sarebbe mai aspettato che il suo migliore amico diventasse l'ospite dell'anima di un antico Faraone d'Egitto. In Jackson adesso coabita un Bodywalker e Leo è obbligato a fare i conti una la realtà nella quale sono presenti creature soprannaturali, che sono molto più pericolose di qualunque cosa abbia mai incontrato.
Ma quando Jackson rimane ferito durante l'attacco di un dio demone, Leo deve allearsi a un'altra creatura soprannaturale, una Night Angel, per salvare il suo amico. Con la sua pelle nera come la notte, i capelli bianchi come la neve e il suo corpo che è pure perfezione, la Night Angel risveglia in Leo un desiderio bruciante, ma si rifiuta di lasciarsi intimidire dai suoi poteri o da quelli di chi vuole distruggere il suo amico. Nasce un'insolita alleanza, carica di tensione sessuale, ma i due devono unire le loro forze per sconfiggere un male superiore.
Il personaggio di Leo è quello che mi è piaciuto di più, un umano con i cosiddetti attributi, nonostante tutto quello che ha passato; una testa calda, che però conosce il vero valore dell'amicizia ed è disposto ad affrontare i suoi demoni interiori e, in questo caso, anche reali per salvare un amico in pericolo.
La trama è ricca di colpi di scena e " giochetti" che l'autrice tira a noi lettori, creando scenari catastrofici, dai quali i personaggi potrebbero essere travolti, un po' come nel libro Adam dei Nightwalkers.
Finalmente si ha un barlume della coppia Menes/Hatshepsut, del loro amore immenso al di là del tempo e degli ospiti umani.
La Night Angel , descrizioni a parte del suo aspetto che è veramente spettacolare, non mi ha molto impressionato come protagonista femminile.
Cosa che ha fatto, invece, i cattivi di turno Chatha e Apep: alcune scelte di Ms Frank le ho trovate inquietanti e poco gradevoli, ma poi vi avrei detto che il cattivo di turno non lo era abbastanza, quindi rabbrividisco in silenzio.
Un interrogativo mi è rimasto, e non so se è una dimenticanza della autrice, o un modo di lasciare un'altra cosa in sospeso, insieme ad altre: ma qual è il prezzo da pagare al Jinn da parte di Leo per il suo desiderio?
Si ringrazia Nergalley e la Random House Publishing Group-Ballantines Books per la gentile preview.
December 3, 2017
Leo Alvarez’s best friend Jackson Waverly is inhabited by a Bodywalker and not just any Bodywalker but Menes, a powerful Egyptian pharaoh. A demon god named Apep has been awakened by a spell gone wrong and zaps Jackson, almost mortally wounding him. Leo teams up with Faith, a Night Angel, to save Jackson from death. This takes them on a journey that seems unreal to Leo but he will do everything he can to save his friend. Along the way, Leo finds that Faith is his calming agent and he loves her. Leo has always been a loner and tells her he's not good at long-term relationships but is he being true to himself or just looking for excuses?
March 6, 2018
I was dying to read this one after what happened to this character in the last and it did not disappoint. Poor Leo went through some serious crap and with a little bit of Faith, he eventually got through it.
Faith brought Leo back into the light where he learned to accept things about himself and the people around him. With the help of a Djinn, they were able to prevent something that would be disastrous had it come to fruition.
Great continuation with loads of action. Excited for the next installment!
Faith brought Leo back into the light where he learned to accept things about himself and the people around him. With the help of a Djinn, they were able to prevent something that would be disastrous had it come to fruition.
Great continuation with loads of action. Excited for the next installment!
November 7, 2019
This book was exceptional. The only thing that I didn't like about it is that where did Faith go after she left Leo? Obviously her mom was around but did she go back to Australia or what? And how many other siblings does she have? There is not way of knowing. Oh and what is the Pegasus really? In the book there was a mention that he Pegasus was something or rather someone else. What is the horse really? These are the questions that aren't really answered and that makes it very hard.
November 21, 2024
I don't usually read this genre, but bought my sisters books & she had most this series. This series wasn't as good as some of her others that I have read, AND I prefer books in print, so UNFORTUNATLY I don't know how the series actually ends because the last book is NOT in print!!! AND I didn't care to by an E-BOOK copy of it.
October 29, 2017
Good book but just a continuation of the story from book 2. A new breed was introduced - the Night Angel. Was very disappointed in the lack of details regarding them.
December 13, 2018
3.5/5 I just didn’t get into this one as much
March 20, 2019
Gah. So hot it burns. Wild tale and excellent read. =)
July 20, 2019
Loved it
March 2, 2021
Muito bom
May 27, 2022
Pour le moment ce n'est pas mon tome favoris, j'espérais quelque chose de différent pour ce tome sur Léo (que je trouvais prometteur...)
Mais bon il n'en est pas mauvais pour autant !
Mais bon il n'en est pas mauvais pour autant !
January 27, 2014
Previous posted at www.smexybooks.com
Forsaken picks up just a short time after Forever. The Bodywalker Kamenwati who had broken an ancient curse to bring forth the Demon God Apep hoping to gain his own power realized his humongous, unforgivable error and in the hopes of gaining sanctuary, rescued Leo and brought him back to Jackson/Menes as a sort of peace offering. Now, the whole group has moved to the desert of New Mexico in the hopes of buying some time while Jackson, his mate Marissa, and Jackson’s sister Docia take the much needed time for their newly received Bodywalker souls to blend within their human bodies. Unfortunately, they are not there long when the Demon God Apep makes an appearance and in a surge of his power, pretty much incapacitates Jackson and causes his newly blended souls to tear apart.
When Faith reveals that her power can only do so much and that that the magic of a high level Djinni is required in order to reattach the souls within Jackson’s body, Leo and Faith set out to track a Djinni and bring him back in the hopes of healing Jackson. Time is of the essence but this journey will have major consequences and Leo and Faith will be changed forever.
I have liked the character of Leo Alvarez from the first book so I was interested to see how his story would be incorporated into this series. Leo has survived horrific torture and he’s dealing with trying to heal not only his body, but his spirit and his heart. He doesn’t know how to respond to the changes that have befallen Jackson and Docia-two people who are his only family. He is struggling with acceptance and more than anything he wishes he could just leave and forget everything that has happened to him. But his love of Jackson and Docia is not something easily forgotten and in the end, he really just cannot walk away.
The author’s interpretation of an angel was surprising to me but at the same time I loved how she steps out of the box, giving us an angel with “skin as black as night and hair as white as snow.” Clearly she picks up on Leo’s animosity toward Nightwalker’s in general so she’s surprised when he volunteers to journey with her to look for the Djinni. Leo is human and therefore can travel during the daylight. Faith can as well, but her physical body loses all it’s Nightwalker powers making her human-like and unable to adequately defend herself. This is where Leo comes in, and they form an unlikely alliance for the sake of the greater good. They are off to a great start after this exchange when Leo first learns the Night Angel’s name:
“Isn’t that a little redundant?” he heard himself asking with a sneer in his tone [...] “An angel named Faith?”
“No different, I imagine, than a man being named Dick,” she said dryly.
When Faith and Leo find the Djinni, he does something that will forever change them both. The experience changes how Leo feels about the Nightwalkers in general, but most especially about Faith. Faith, too, is changed but she has a much harder time dealing with it which causes a lot of tension between them. If feelings and emotions were not enough, the Djinni will not agree to help them unless they do two things, one of them involving a wish, something Faith has been told never to do with a Djinni because the price is always much too high. I thought this aspect of the story was handled well and in the end the goal is achieved.
The psychotic demon God Apep is truly sick in every sense of the word. I expect that this character will continue to play a large role as this series moves forward. Apep, though male, has taken the form of a female in here and is as deluded as a Demon God could possibly be. His sick mind has decided that it needs to procreate and sets forth to do just that. I’m intrigued to see where this goes and especially interested in the male Apep has chosen to father the child.
While I enjoyed Leo and Faith and the journey they take here, I found the pacing a bit inconsistent. Without being too spoilery there are time jumps of a sort and I found that would pull me out of the story a bit. Having said that there are interesting developments in this story as it relates to the war between the Bodywalkers and the connection is clearly revealed between all the Nightwalker species in general which I found very interesting. So, while the story didn’t really move forward, we’re given a bit more of a foundation. Also, I didn’t feel that Leo and Faith experienced a total HEA; I was left more with the feeling of the possibility of it.
Next up is Forged which features a Gargoyle named Ahnvil. I can’t wait to see how the author deals with a character who turns to stone in daylight.
Forsaken picks up just a short time after Forever. The Bodywalker Kamenwati who had broken an ancient curse to bring forth the Demon God Apep hoping to gain his own power realized his humongous, unforgivable error and in the hopes of gaining sanctuary, rescued Leo and brought him back to Jackson/Menes as a sort of peace offering. Now, the whole group has moved to the desert of New Mexico in the hopes of buying some time while Jackson, his mate Marissa, and Jackson’s sister Docia take the much needed time for their newly received Bodywalker souls to blend within their human bodies. Unfortunately, they are not there long when the Demon God Apep makes an appearance and in a surge of his power, pretty much incapacitates Jackson and causes his newly blended souls to tear apart.
When Faith reveals that her power can only do so much and that that the magic of a high level Djinni is required in order to reattach the souls within Jackson’s body, Leo and Faith set out to track a Djinni and bring him back in the hopes of healing Jackson. Time is of the essence but this journey will have major consequences and Leo and Faith will be changed forever.
I have liked the character of Leo Alvarez from the first book so I was interested to see how his story would be incorporated into this series. Leo has survived horrific torture and he’s dealing with trying to heal not only his body, but his spirit and his heart. He doesn’t know how to respond to the changes that have befallen Jackson and Docia-two people who are his only family. He is struggling with acceptance and more than anything he wishes he could just leave and forget everything that has happened to him. But his love of Jackson and Docia is not something easily forgotten and in the end, he really just cannot walk away.
The author’s interpretation of an angel was surprising to me but at the same time I loved how she steps out of the box, giving us an angel with “skin as black as night and hair as white as snow.” Clearly she picks up on Leo’s animosity toward Nightwalker’s in general so she’s surprised when he volunteers to journey with her to look for the Djinni. Leo is human and therefore can travel during the daylight. Faith can as well, but her physical body loses all it’s Nightwalker powers making her human-like and unable to adequately defend herself. This is where Leo comes in, and they form an unlikely alliance for the sake of the greater good. They are off to a great start after this exchange when Leo first learns the Night Angel’s name:
“Isn’t that a little redundant?” he heard himself asking with a sneer in his tone [...] “An angel named Faith?”
“No different, I imagine, than a man being named Dick,” she said dryly.
When Faith and Leo find the Djinni, he does something that will forever change them both. The experience changes how Leo feels about the Nightwalkers in general, but most especially about Faith. Faith, too, is changed but she has a much harder time dealing with it which causes a lot of tension between them. If feelings and emotions were not enough, the Djinni will not agree to help them unless they do two things, one of them involving a wish, something Faith has been told never to do with a Djinni because the price is always much too high. I thought this aspect of the story was handled well and in the end the goal is achieved.
The psychotic demon God Apep is truly sick in every sense of the word. I expect that this character will continue to play a large role as this series moves forward. Apep, though male, has taken the form of a female in here and is as deluded as a Demon God could possibly be. His sick mind has decided that it needs to procreate and sets forth to do just that. I’m intrigued to see where this goes and especially interested in the male Apep has chosen to father the child.
While I enjoyed Leo and Faith and the journey they take here, I found the pacing a bit inconsistent. Without being too spoilery there are time jumps of a sort and I found that would pull me out of the story a bit. Having said that there are interesting developments in this story as it relates to the war between the Bodywalkers and the connection is clearly revealed between all the Nightwalker species in general which I found very interesting. So, while the story didn’t really move forward, we’re given a bit more of a foundation. Also, I didn’t feel that Leo and Faith experienced a total HEA; I was left more with the feeling of the possibility of it.
Next up is Forged which features a Gargoyle named Ahnvil. I can’t wait to see how the author deals with a character who turns to stone in daylight.
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