Colby Evans can leap from one country to the next in a heartbeat. She can see every sunset in every time zone in the same day. She can travel across the world in a flash. She defies gravity and physics with every breath she takes. She’s tested her abilities and found them limitless. She is the lightning. She is Lucent. And nothing can stop her. Except him. Theodore Ramsey isn’t supposed to be able to flash like Colby. The power of travel is passed on from mother to daughter in their people. Except once in every hundred generations. Theo is the one. He can flash like Colby. And it makes him a target to their enemies and to himself. His abilities change everything he knows about life and throws his future into an uncertain tangent. In fact, the only thing certain in his life is the love he feels for Colby. Their love defies time and space and has been the only constant thing in their lives since childhood. But even their infallible love will be stretched to its limits. She will risk her life to protect him. But he will risk everything to protect them all.
Lila Felix is full of antics and stories. She refused to go to Kindergarten after the teacher made her take a nap on the first day of school. She staged her first protest in middle school. She almost flunked out of her first semester at Pepperdine University because she was enthralled with their library and frequently was locked in. Now her husband and three children have to put up with her rebel nature in Louisiana where her days are filled with cypress trees, crawfish, and of course her books and writing. She writes about the ordinary people who fall extraordinarily in wild, true love.
I got an ARC of this from Lila and loved this book. Ever since she told me about this book last year, I've been waiting for it. Theo is an awesome book boy. I'm so intrigued with the paranormal aspects of the story. Can't wait for book two.
This is the problem and the glory of Lucent women. You can’t hold them down. Any man in love with a Lucent female is doomed and blessed to eternally chase her lightning. You can’t anchor them. You can’t guarantee they will be in your bed the next morning or anytime at all.
But when I had Colby—I had her heart and soul. **
When you have the ability to flash to a different country in the blink of an eye, the possibilities are endless. The world is yours for the taking. But what if you are trying to keep that 'world' at arm’s reach for his own safety? What happens when your world reveals a secret so mind blowing you don't know whether to rejoice or curl up and cry?
Colby has always been the wild card in her world of Lucents. Never one to play by the rules. But when Theo comes back into her life and reveals a few things about himself, she begins to realize her true feelings for him. Together they head out seeking answers about who he is and what this means for their future. Together they will get through this. Or will they?
** “Me and you. It’s always been me and you. No matter how stubborn I am, no matter how hard I fight you. Even when I push you as far away as I can and when it’s not far enough, I cross the planet to get away from you. No matter what, it will always be me and you.”
He brought his face as close to mine as he could. Chocolate chip cookies laced his breath and what girl in her right mind doesn’t want to be kissed by a boy who tastes like chocolate. His gray eyes danced around my face before landing on my lips. It wasn’t his eyes I wanted on my mouth. His eyes and mouth rose simultaneously in a smile, “Took you long enough.” **
I loved the unique storyline of this book. I have read of time travelers and whatnot, but Lucents are not time travelers. They stay in the present but can flash anywhere they put their mind to. Literally. Like lightning. In the blink of an eye they are able to go from point A to point B. As long as they have been there before or seen a picture they can visualize. Simple as that. But it is only the female Lucents. Male Lucents are a rare thing. And of course Theo would be one.
And of course they would have enemies. This whole journey is a fight for their lives and to stay out of the hands of the Resin. But what if the enemies are closer than they think? Yep, this book had me wondering over and over "who could they trust?" Everyone is suspect at this point. But I loved that about the story. I loved the mystery that is produced. I loved playing detective, seeking out the bad guys.
** “Why must you break me?” He breathed into my face. His hair danced along my forehead.
“I’m not.” I defied him.
“Yes, you do. Every time I’m in a room with you and I can’t touch you—you break me. Every time you pretend that we are only friends—you break me. Does it make you happy to break me, Querida?”
“No.” **
And then we have the romance. The first half is romance free. Sort of. Colby is denying her feelings for Theo during most of this time. But we see it. She cannot pull one over on us. We know there are feelings for him. It is only a matter of time before he falters and gives in. Theo is a sweetheart. I loved he was a good guy and played by the rules of his people. For the most part. But he is adorable and sexy and absolutely swoony.
All that is left to say is that LIGHTINING IN MY WAKE is a fabulous read and will leave you gasping for the next book! Oh yes, this ending is sure to please and have you eagerly anticipating what is to come. 5 Amazing Stars!
Other fav line... “That should be us. We should be in the streets, enjoying life together. Sometimes this ability doesn’t seem like a gift at all. Sometimes it seems like false freedom.” I whispered more to the dark than to Colby. I could feel her take a deep breath with her back against my chest.
“One day it will be. That’s all I want.”
“Tell me what you want, Querida. Tell me all of it.” Her hair moved as the motion of my whisper floated across it.
“Just go to sleep, Theo.” Her voice drifted with the last words.
This is a brand new series from Lila Felix...I honestly don't know how she keeps them straight!! She's just that AMAZING!!...this one is another hit!
I loved Colby and her spunk!! I love how she didn't know how to handle Theo, was she suppose to stay away from to keep him save or be with him bc he wasn't save bc he could flash too. I think having the ability to flash would be so awesome!! Of course there are always negatives with any special power.
Then there is Theo...I honesty don't think Lila can write a male lead that I don't fall in love with...Theo was no exception!!! I loved learning about him and how he was so different than the other males! I loved Colby and Theo together!!
There is still so much we don't know!!! So much more to learn and the ending...no cliffhanger Lila!!!! They are always killing and makes you want the next one right away!!
I look forward to seeing where this series is going and learn so much more about everyone!!!
AWESOME!!!!! Full review.... Lila Felix has blown me away...With Lightning in my Wake, she has created a unique, intriguing world that draws the reader in to the complex and dynamic storyline featuring some fascinating characters. We begin by meeting Colby Evans. She calls herself a flasher and when I first read it, I died laughing. Of course it isn't the type of flasher that you are thinking about right now, but she has the ability to flash from one place to another like lightning. What an awesome power to have!! I would soooo die to have it...My commutes would be so much better as well as being about to travel anywhere in the world any time I please?? OH YES!!! But, this isn't all that is so great about her...She is one spunky woman...I absolutely love her strength, her huge heart, her sass, her humor, and her vulnerability. She is a force to be reckoned with and I adored reading about her... But it was the compelling relationship with Theo that kept me glued to the pages. When you meet him, be ready ladies...this guy is remarkable. He captured my heart immediately and that was just after reading his email to Colby. OMG!! I knew right away he was going to a heart-stopper...And boy was her ever... And these two together?? Be still my beating heart...The sparks flew off the pages and the chemistry was explosive...Two souls couldn't have been more perfect for each other yet they were so different. They complimented each other and provided the ideal relationship of compromise that so many people need. *sighs* So, while I was awing over these two, the plot thickened and the events unfolded to prepare me for a tale of brilliance. Stimulated by the action of what Theo and Colby are enduring; I was biting my nails at the suspenseful scenes laid before me. Hard decisions were placed in the hands of these two and my heart ached at what I saw coming... AND THEN...oh yes...it happened...an interesting twist to the ending that has now left me eagerly awaiting the release of book 2...*cries hysterically* Go get this book...seriously...absolute LOVE for this book...
Lightning in My Wake is the first book I've read by Lila Felix, and I'm not sure why I waited so long, other than my "to read" list is simply too long. This story is full of passion, intensity, and some really awesome abilities. It's packed with an amazing amount of history on the Lucent and digs even deeper as the story progresses. This remarkable tale is told from both Colby and Theo's perspectives.
Colby is a Lucent, which means she can travel the world in the blink of an eye. All she has to do is think about a place and she's there in seconds. Colby's mother is also a Lucent, or Flasher as they used to call it. That's how it works; daughters get the power from their mothers. But once every so often, a male can inherit the gift as well. It's generally not as significant in men, and they are limited in their power. After growing up loving each other to their cores, Colby breaks it off with Theo when she learns he can flash. It's the only way to keep him safe from their enemies, and to keep him from suffering the same fate as her father. After two years, Theo returns with some very startling news that will change everything they thought they knew.
Lightning in My Wake is such a unique story built on a solid foundation with a cast of strong and alluring characters. It amazes me that there are still new stories as good as this to be told, and I feel fortunate every time I happen upon one of these gems. Felix blew me away with this one and I can't wait to read more of her work, especially the next book in this series. Gah! What a way to end it.
I highly recommend Lightning in My Wake to all fans of paranormal, fantasy, and romance.
Lila manages to outdo herself AGAIN! I’m convinced there is nothing she can’t do. I haven’t read anything like this, so it was very original for me. I love the idea of flashing from one exotic place to the next in an instant. Who wouldn’t love that?! It was cool to read about all of the exciting places. I am afraid to say that with those kinds of blessings and gifts there are always curses. I honestly couldn’t put it down. I was immediately invested and can’t wait to see more of the story develop in the next book. There is so much more I want to read about. I love Colby and Theo. I say that about all of her leading characters. That’s not a bad thing! They are both so stubborn and fun. I love how they seem so opposite but have such a passion for each other. Colby’s sass and spunk are my favorite. That, to me, is a Lila trait I look forward to each and every time. She doesn’t disappoint. I don’t know that Lila can write a lead male character that I don’t fall for. Theo is just perfection to me. All of the secrets and learning about his identity kept me on the edge of my seat. There were twists and turns that had me in shock and even yelling. There is so much going on that there is never a dull moment. I truly loved getting to know the secondary characters, as well. I am excited to learn much more about Pema, Collin and The Synod. I am afraid to keep going because I won’t know when to stop and I don’t want to give anything away. It's definitely a journey worth taking. Hurry and get this! You won’t regret it. Another amazing job by Lila!
There's Colby a spunky, bold, loud mouthed chicky with a passion for "Flashing" which is the same as teleportation. Theo is our strong, swoony lead guy with heart palpitating manners who yearns to make Colby his once again.
He has always loved Colby from afar. Theo loves her fiery spirit and wants her future tied to his for all of eternity but sadly Colby has fears of being abandoned by her love, Theo so she distances herself until he comes in need of her help. Colby will not lose Theo and will fight to keep him in her life.
Theo comes to discover he comes from a special line of "Lucents" with many gifts but he doesn't know his purpose now?? He needs help finding out more on what is happening to him and many questions he seeks answers to. With the help of Colby "his love", a wise man who was in charge of the historic books, and Pema a family descendant he goes on to try and find out everything he can while being hunted by "Resin" which are like spies/mercenaries sent by the Synod. The Synod is a counsel of sorts who deems themselves judges/lawmakers. They need to know all and control all. Theo is quite important to them, But Why???
What will Theo find out about what/who he is? Who will help Theo stop the Synod if need be? Can Colby place her fears aside and aide Theo in his quest? Find out TODAY when you BUY a Copy!!!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Lightning in My Wake is another dive into the paranormal pool for Lila Felix, and graceful one it is! My only worry going into this was at 138 pages it’s a pretty short novel, but that proved to be groundless as there’s a lot of punch packed into it!
He turned to face me. “There are Resin on my tail-always.” “Mine too. They like to look at my ass as I flash away.”
A detailed and interesting mythology will draw you into the world of the Lucents where you’ll find Colby who oozes an offhanded sarcastic charm, and the sweet yet lost boy next door Theo. Follow along with them as they learn that being able to travel anywhere in a flash of lightning might not be enough to outrun fate.
I've really enjoyed everything LF has written but Lightning in my Wake blew me away! I fell in love with every single aspect of this novel. The characters are all so incredibly likable. The plot was great! You don't know who to trust and what is going to hit the characters next. There's so much emotion flowing through the characters and when we see the loss of a supporting character, you feel the loss deep within your heart. You nearly mourn with the characters and then you get angry right along with her! You want revenge just as bad as she does! I cannot wait for book two in this series because it ends with a hugeeeeeeeee plot twist and I need more!!! Huge 5 star read for me! Definitely a new favorite!
Traveling in a flash, what a concept! Not going to say anything else because you need to read it and I do not want to give a single thing away.
What I liked about the book: Theo - for me it is all about Theo. I love his dedication to Colby, and his strength or character. I love the idea of their abilities, it would be very cool to be able to do what they can do.
What I didn't like about the book: The beginning was just a little slow for me, not enough to ding the author for, because sometimes story building is slow.
Would I recommend this book: Yes! If you want a light, fun read.
I enjoyed this book! Lila has hit another home run with this one. :) This book has some mystery, it has some romance, it has some conflict, and it has some great likable characters. The ending hints at more, with a cliff hanger ending! I certainly can't wait to see what more comes to this story.
Well this was different. Different in a really good way. I did enjoy this. Cliffhanger endings really do my head in though, so I will wait rather impatiently for the next one.
Lila does it again!! I was blown away the moment I started reading LIMW. This story will grab you pull you in and hold you tight with mystery, danger & romance!! This story transcends any other paranormal romance you're every going to read all books will pale in comparison. The reader is woven into a magical world filled with " Lucents" "flashes" ( it's not what y'all are think!) it's a term for time travers, "Seekers" & the ever present rule keepers the "Synod". All brought to vividly to life from the depths of Lila's extremely infinite imagination.
We enter the story meeting the strong, self-assured & independent Colby. I loved her the moment I met her. Lila has such a passion for writing strong female roles & I love her for that!! As a Lucent a "flasher" to be exact (Colby's word not mine y'all) she uses her powers to skirt a little on the shady side. Colby makes deliveries of software to high paying companies. This is risky for many reasons. First, she has to deal with humans who know nothing of her kind (& the Synod make sure of that). Also there are groups of rouge flashers called "Resins" that have been captured by humans, experimented on, tortured & eventually had their powers stripped. With nothing left to lose, Resins can profit greatly by turning any flashers or seekers they find my find over to the humans.
Colby keeps busy with this job in order to her heart from the searing pain of missing Theo *sigh* do I ever LOVE Theo!!! These two have been best friends since the first grade (isn't that sweet??) & a eventually progressed into a relationship. The closer they became, the more anxious Colby became about her job endangering Theo's life. For his safety, Colby broke up with Theo & tries her best not to think about him (yeah right!)
Theo hasn't been sitting around feeling sorry for himself, he's been very busy researching Lucent history & honing his own powers in order to prove to himself (& Colby) he can handle himself no matter what may come. He finds some very fascinating information pertaining to legends shrouded in half truths, but uncovering the secrets will be very difficult & could mean his death.
Theo gets a welcome distraction, when his mom calls & invites him on a long weekend with none other Colby's family *giggle* THIS y'all was one of my favorite parts of the book (there were many)!!! You know in movies when two people are in love & everything around them stops except them?? *sigh* that's how it was when Colby & Theo reunited (but not cheesy I promise!!) the passion that these two attempted to contain while apart overflowed & their undeniably chemistry was flying all over!!
When they are finally able to get some time alone, Theo explains to Colby what he's discovered & the journey he must take to find his answers. Immediately Colby demands she's coming along & there's nothing he can do about it! This, y'all is when the real adventure begins!! The rest of the book is action packed, heart pounding thrills!! Resins constantly on their trail, the Synod not pleased with their secrets becoming revealed....... add the yummy realization that Colby & Theo are beginning to realize they can't stand to apart & you have the book perfection!!! I have to admit, the Hubs had to put the girls to bed by himself for two nights because I didn't want to put this book down!!! (It's good for him tho right?) I was very pleased with Lila's ending but I'm anxiously awaiting the second book!! *bounces up & down* did you hear that Lila???
Lila has done it again. I am blown away. Not only is this a spellbinding story about the complex relationship between Colby and Theo, but it has a paranormal element in it like none other I have read. The world she has built is not only unique, but also felt real. I loved Colby and Theo. They were both stubborn as mules, but in that endearing way that makes you cheer on their stubbornness. I also loved the array of secondary characters. They added so much to this fascinating tale. There are some authors I go to again and again because they are comfortable and I know what to expect every time. Lila is not one of those. I go to her books again and again because I never know what to expect. I would love to talk about this book, but I am afraid that all the amazing things would be too spoilery. While this is in no way a cliffhanger there is so much more of their story to tell. I can not wait to see what happens next.
Nope nope nope this book was so bad that I couldn't take it anymore. It's kind of sickening to watch the unexplained connections between these characters, like how all the men seem to be so compliant and still refer to their love interest as "my female." The plot really didn't move far at all and the "bad guys" just kind of became the bad guys. Murder happens because of a tiny act of rebellion. Everything is topsy turvy in this world and exaggerated, and the worst part is that the setup for all of this is surreal and just not... believable. There are people who are way too powerful that it's hard to relate to them as characters, and I didn't enjoy reading much of it.
I've really enjoyed everything LF has written but Lightning in my Wake blew me away! I fell in love with every single aspect of this novel. The characters are all so incredibly likable. The plot was great! You don't know who to trust and what is going to hit the characters next. There's so much emotion flowing through the characters and when we see the loss of a supporting character, you feel the loss deep within your heart. You nearly mourn with the characters and then you get angry right along with her! You want revenge just as bad as she does! I cannot wait for book two in this series because it ends with a hugeeeeeeeee plot twist and I need more!!! Huge 5 star read for me! Definitely a new favorite!
I could not put this book down! Lila has done it again and has written another fabulous book.
How awesome would it be to be able to think of some place and in a flash you're there, AWESOME! Being able to read about all the places that Colby and Theo have been is like an escape. Colby has such a personality that I fell in love with and Theo is a heartbreaker. The love they have for each other is out of this world sweet. Being able to flash is a blessing and curse but Colby and Theo handle it the best they can.
This story is such a refreshing and unique. I don't know how Lila keeps doing it. You have to read this one!!!
What I like about this book: Well hello new Book Boyfriend Theo!! Let me stalk you daily!! haha!! Okay, in a seriousness Theo is amazing and is great for Colby! I like Colby but Theo makes this story!
What I didn't like: Well, it's a tad slow in some part, BUT .... BUT .. Lila makes up for it at the end and I would like BOOK 2 soon please
It was not bad...not sure if I'll continue the series though. It was definitely original, I've never read any other sort of book like this. But, I personally didn't connect enough with the characters to continue reading the series.