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The Donor #1
The Donor
[Disclaimer: This is a serial novella that will be told in parts about the length of a short story (20-30 pages)]
Casey Williams and her family are poor. Her parents work non-stop and so does she, just so they can keep the trailer roof from leaking.
They’re getting by fine enough when the headaches start. Then there’s the nosebleeds. And the inevitable medical bills.
Fortunately for Casey, there’s MyTrueMatch.com: an exclusive, quick, and almost easy way to pay it all back before her parents even have to know.
All she has to do is give a man she’s never met whatever he wants from her body.
Inside or out.
Casey Williams and her family are poor. Her parents work non-stop and so does she, just so they can keep the trailer roof from leaking.
They’re getting by fine enough when the headaches start. Then there’s the nosebleeds. And the inevitable medical bills.
Fortunately for Casey, there’s MyTrueMatch.com: an exclusive, quick, and almost easy way to pay it all back before her parents even have to know.
All she has to do is give a man she’s never met whatever he wants from her body.
Inside or out.
ebook
First published July 13, 2014
About the author
Nikki Rae
47 books365 followersNikki Rae is an independent author who lives in New Jersey. She explores human nature through fiction, concentrating on making the imaginary as real as possible. Her genres of choice are mainly dark, scary, romantic tales, but she’ll try anything once. When she is not writing, reading, or thinking, you can find her spending time with animals, drawing in a quiet corner, or studying people. Closely.
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April 4, 2014
Release Date: July 14, 2014
The Donor (Part 1) by Nikki Rae is the first part of a serial novella. It is very short but leaves you wanting more, more, more!
Casey Williams is 18 years old and lives in a run down trailer with her parents. Her father had a serious accident so every penny goes to paying his medical bills. Casey starts having head aches and they consistently are becoming more intense. She has also been getting nose bleeds. So now she has to pay for her own medical bills as well as her Dad’s.
Her friend from work tells Casey about MyTrueMatch.com and through this site she meets Jonah Black.
Nikki Rae is so devious. We watch while Casey and Jonah become acquainted and eventually meet in person. But just what sort of arrangement is this? What is it that Casey will be doing for Jonah?
Even though this little novella is so short, I instantly fell in love with Casey. Nikki Rae completely sucked me into the story and then…it was over. This is a fantastic start to what looks like it is going to be something completely unique and fabulous. There is a darkness to it but also a sweetness. I absolutely loved it and hope I don’t have to wait long for part 2.
Thank you so much to Nikki for allowing me to read this for an honest review. I absolutely loved it!
The Donor (Part 1) by Nikki Rae is the first part of a serial novella. It is very short but leaves you wanting more, more, more!
Casey Williams is 18 years old and lives in a run down trailer with her parents. Her father had a serious accident so every penny goes to paying his medical bills. Casey starts having head aches and they consistently are becoming more intense. She has also been getting nose bleeds. So now she has to pay for her own medical bills as well as her Dad’s.
Her friend from work tells Casey about MyTrueMatch.com and through this site she meets Jonah Black.
Nikki Rae is so devious. We watch while Casey and Jonah become acquainted and eventually meet in person. But just what sort of arrangement is this? What is it that Casey will be doing for Jonah?
Even though this little novella is so short, I instantly fell in love with Casey. Nikki Rae completely sucked me into the story and then…it was over. This is a fantastic start to what looks like it is going to be something completely unique and fabulous. There is a darkness to it but also a sweetness. I absolutely loved it and hope I don’t have to wait long for part 2.
Thank you so much to Nikki for allowing me to read this for an honest review. I absolutely loved it!
May 26, 2014
**I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review**
I was stupidly excited to read this first part of The Donor novella. I had not long finished the Sunshine series, and couldn't wait to see what author Nikki Rae did next.
Although this part was short, Nikki's writing style and captivating characters instantly sucked me in. The synopsis of The Donor was intriguing and I honestly had no clue as to what would happen, other than what was stated.
The stupid thing is, I didn't actually connect the title of this book with anything Sunshine series related. I try to go in to new stories/books completely open minded, I guess this time I was so open minded I missed the huge clue.
So, eventually when my brain clicked in (which was at the 95% point) I finally grasped where things were going, albeit late.
Casey is 18 years old and lives with her parents in a trailer park, following a nasty accident her dad had at work. He was badly hurt and the medical bills are huge and a drain on the family. Following graduation, Casey takes full time work at her office job to grab as much money for her family as possible. Whilst at work, one of her work colleagues lets her in on a secret club/organisation online that matches up people like a dating site. It's basically a way of getting big money for a small amount of your time to do exactly what is needed of you. You are the The Donor. I'm not going to start throwing spoilers around and ruin the story, for those who have no clue what is going on. Or like me were a little slow to remember connections between this Novella and the Sunshine series.
Casey has other problems, that make it even more important to her, to take part in The Donor program. The man that Casey has been matched with, Jonah. We haven't as yet learnt too much about. Other than his age and what he looks like. He seems to be very nice and a gentleman, he cares about Casey's well being and is generous but that is pretty much the extent of what he know. Obviously there is a key feature to him, but that would be a major spoiler leak, so best to read this to find out what it is.
So, 27 pages of an awesome start to this novella series. I loved it and was hooked all the way through. I'm dying to read on and find out more. For a quick, yet captivating read this was perfect. It has all the same addictive qualities that the Sunshine series had, and will make for another unique yet addictive story. 5 stars!
I was stupidly excited to read this first part of The Donor novella. I had not long finished the Sunshine series, and couldn't wait to see what author Nikki Rae did next.
Although this part was short, Nikki's writing style and captivating characters instantly sucked me in. The synopsis of The Donor was intriguing and I honestly had no clue as to what would happen, other than what was stated.
The stupid thing is, I didn't actually connect the title of this book with anything Sunshine series related. I try to go in to new stories/books completely open minded, I guess this time I was so open minded I missed the huge clue.
So, eventually when my brain clicked in (which was at the 95% point) I finally grasped where things were going, albeit late.
Casey is 18 years old and lives with her parents in a trailer park, following a nasty accident her dad had at work. He was badly hurt and the medical bills are huge and a drain on the family. Following graduation, Casey takes full time work at her office job to grab as much money for her family as possible. Whilst at work, one of her work colleagues lets her in on a secret club/organisation online that matches up people like a dating site. It's basically a way of getting big money for a small amount of your time to do exactly what is needed of you. You are the The Donor. I'm not going to start throwing spoilers around and ruin the story, for those who have no clue what is going on. Or like me were a little slow to remember connections between this Novella and the Sunshine series.
Casey has other problems, that make it even more important to her, to take part in The Donor program. The man that Casey has been matched with, Jonah. We haven't as yet learnt too much about. Other than his age and what he looks like. He seems to be very nice and a gentleman, he cares about Casey's well being and is generous but that is pretty much the extent of what he know. Obviously there is a key feature to him, but that would be a major spoiler leak, so best to read this to find out what it is.
So, 27 pages of an awesome start to this novella series. I loved it and was hooked all the way through. I'm dying to read on and find out more. For a quick, yet captivating read this was perfect. It has all the same addictive qualities that the Sunshine series had, and will make for another unique yet addictive story. 5 stars!
April 4, 2014
Dammit.
Dammit.
Dammit.
I want more.
Now.
Please.
Alright here the jist, this was given to me in exchange for an honest review. And that is what I do. Cool? Cool.
~*~*~NOTE: because this is a serial novella release sort of thing my review will be a bit different~*~*~
Song Choice: "You" by Keaton Henson
Overall thoughts: I think this was cleverly written, I liked how it worked as shifting from present to past, and the past slowly revealing only the information that we need for the scenes in the present at the time. I thought it worked well for the overall story.
There are worse ways to spend time. Especially when time is such a limited thing.
I think that the slow reveal of information gives the reader a lot of time to come up with their own conclusions. But when you get the answers, don't be surprised if you are wrong ;). Anyways as always I found Nikki's writing delightfully, dark, but also almost poetic. I enjoyed the first part and I eagerly wait for the next one. The characters were both distinguished and I look forward to learning more about each of them. Since this was just the beginning of their story I thought it was an amazing start.
So bring on the next one.
No seriously.
PWEASE <3
For more Becca-ness check me out here: http://theviolethourbookreviews.wordp...
June 9, 2014
In ‘The Donor’ we meet Casey Williams, a 19 year old hard-working girl. Casey and her family have big money problems and they all work extremely hard just to pay the bills. When Casey starts having headaches and nosebleeds the money problems get worse due to the high doctor bills. But there is one solution to Casey’s problems: MyTrueMatch.com. Through this site Casey meets a man who will pay her a lot of money with the one downfall that she has to give this man anything he wants from her body. But Casey just wants her parents to have less money problems and she will do whatever it takes to achieve her goal.
When I read the first couple of pages of ‘The Donor’ I was immediately intrigued. There is a lot of mystery in this book. When I read the part about Casey having to give whatever the guy wants from her body, my mind immediately thought about what Casey would have to do. But when I read further into this book I saw that what I first thought isn’t at all what was going to happen.
I loved that twist in this first part of ‘The Donor’ and I can’t believe how short this first part was. (I WANT MORE!! LOL!!) I couldn’t put it down and kept clicking on my Kindle, hoping that there was another page hidden. I can’t wait until the next part comes out in August.
This is definitely a book to check out!
When I read the first couple of pages of ‘The Donor’ I was immediately intrigued. There is a lot of mystery in this book. When I read the part about Casey having to give whatever the guy wants from her body, my mind immediately thought about what Casey would have to do. But when I read further into this book I saw that what I first thought isn’t at all what was going to happen.
I loved that twist in this first part of ‘The Donor’ and I can’t believe how short this first part was. (I WANT MORE!! LOL!!) I couldn’t put it down and kept clicking on my Kindle, hoping that there was another page hidden. I can’t wait until the next part comes out in August.
This is definitely a book to check out!
April 5, 2014
I got the opportunity to beta read this short story and I loved it.
In the beginning I had no idea what was going to happen, but I kept reading and I found out that the protagonist (Casey) is actually a donor for a vampire to get money for her medical bills.
I can't wait for part two! I'm so curious what will happen with Casey and Jonah!
And for those who don't know the Sunshine Series, you should definetly check it out!
19th May 2014:Little update
Changed the protagonist's name into Casey.
-I want to thank Nikki Rae for the ARC!
In the beginning I had no idea what was going to happen, but I kept reading and I found out that the protagonist (Casey) is actually a donor for a vampire to get money for her medical bills.
I can't wait for part two! I'm so curious what will happen with Casey and Jonah!
And for those who don't know the Sunshine Series, you should definetly check it out!
19th May 2014:Little update
Changed the protagonist's name into Casey.
-I want to thank Nikki Rae for the ARC!
April 4, 2014
Nikki Rae has a wicked imagination and such a crisp direct way of telling her stories it is almost impossible not to get sucked in! The Donor is no exception. It's amazing what people will do when they have nothing left to lose and that definitely seems to be the case for Casey when she joins an unusual online match site. The thought of meeting someone off the computer for the first time is a little creepy and unnerving enough, but the tension slowly builds as I quickly realized this meeting was definitely more than it seemed. I was so wrapped up in the story I was almost startled when it quickly ended even though I knew it was part of a serial novella. I absolutely can't wait to see what happens next! Nikki Rae is fast becoming one of my new favorite authors and in my opinion The Donor is definitely recommended!
May 23, 2014
Nikki Rae is a masterful storyteller. That's all there is to it. When I began reading The Donor: Part One, I wasn't exactly sure what to expect. Typical vampires. Typical romance. Instead, I found something a lot more creative, a lot darker, and a lot more emotional.
Casey Williams is sick; that much you know from the start, and as I began to read, I wasn't sure how I felt about it. Meeting someone online and flying halfway across the country to meet a guy just didn't seem very typical for an eighteen year old girl.
Until you find out the exact reasons why.
This story, while short, kept me wanting more. Nikki Rae does a wonderful job at pulling you in, making you want more, and feel sympathy for Casey. So what happens next? I'm ready to find out!
Casey Williams is sick; that much you know from the start, and as I began to read, I wasn't sure how I felt about it. Meeting someone online and flying halfway across the country to meet a guy just didn't seem very typical for an eighteen year old girl.
Until you find out the exact reasons why.
This story, while short, kept me wanting more. Nikki Rae does a wonderful job at pulling you in, making you want more, and feel sympathy for Casey. So what happens next? I'm ready to find out!
July 14, 2014
Rae’s take on online dating is priceless. She launches you right into the main character’s life and you’re off for one very unique ride. You simultaneously find out what she’s doing & how she got there. Rae subtly develops her characters. By the end of this first instalment you get an idea of who the female lead is and how she got where she is. The male lead remains a bit of a mystery which adds an extra layer of complexity to this short story.
As a whole, I thoroughly enjoyed the first instalment in this new serial. It is the perfect set up to launch the series. Rae had me completely captivated throughout. I can’t wait for the next!
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
As a whole, I thoroughly enjoyed the first instalment in this new serial. It is the perfect set up to launch the series. Rae had me completely captivated throughout. I can’t wait for the next!
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
June 30, 2014
Quick review:
Cover: Interesting
Rating: R
Thumbs Up: 4.5
Overall: Kept me wondering
Characters: Good
Plot: A girl with nothing to lose but to do whatevers necessary
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? Yes
Recommend: Yes
Book Boyfriend: Jonah
SUMMARY (50 words or less)
This is a serial novella. So we are on our toes wondering what’s all going on. I really liked the intrigue. The story is told in parts that move around in time and made me want more.
For a full review and yummy pic, see my blog post at:
COMING SOON
Cover: Interesting
Rating: R
Thumbs Up: 4.5
Overall: Kept me wondering
Characters: Good
Plot: A girl with nothing to lose but to do whatevers necessary
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? Yes
Recommend: Yes
Book Boyfriend: Jonah
SUMMARY (50 words or less)
This is a serial novella. So we are on our toes wondering what’s all going on. I really liked the intrigue. The story is told in parts that move around in time and made me want more.
For a full review and yummy pic, see my blog post at:
COMING SOON
May 19, 2014
Regardless of the length, this book is great.This is a very vague because you have to read it to understand. Yes it is short but in those few chapters you feel what the emotional highs and lows of Casey's life. Casey is a very brave soul, her level of self sacrifice is commendable...because what would you do if found in her shoes? MyTrueMatch.com, was really her saving grace,and Jonah was ever the gentleman. What an I talking about The Donor silly, your just a few clicks away from finding out... so get to clicking.
July 25, 2014
Oh my! I need more!!! The story is just starting to truly unfold!!!! I have a love/hate relationship with series like this. Just when I start really getting invested in the story, it's over and I have to wait for the next part! This one was dragging me in one calm step at a time and then bam! I need more!!!!
October 29, 2014
Any book that starts with a nod to Silence Of The Lambs is my kind of book! This is more than I thought could be packed into such a short episode. The 2 characters are very well developed in such a short span. I was thrilled with the ending or to be continued. I can't wait to read the rest of this series
July 20, 2014
Okay I have one word….MORE! The Donor was a tasty treat from Author Nikkie Rae, that I did not want to end. In fact, at the end I was startled (there wasn’t more!) my first thought was…”oh no she didn’t!” LOL I groaned in anxiety that the author cruelly left me as a reader hanging! But also thrilled because it really gets me excited for the second novella!
But let me start from the beginning. The Donor is the first novella in a serial that follows the tale of Casey Williams and Jonah Black. We meet Casey who is basically in dire straits. She is an eighteen year old girl working a dead-end office job that she dislikes. In order to pay for a few semesters of college and to help financially her mother and father, who are at a loss to cover their normal bills, as well as her father’s hospital bills, she sticks with it. But she is not only dealing with her family’s troubles, Casey is ill as well, suffering from extreme headaches and nosebleeds. Her condition worsens by the day, but she does not seek care for herself knowing that her family cannot afford it. So when she hears two of her office mates, Emily, who hates her and Gina, who does not hate her as much… chatting about a website called MyTrueMatch, it appears to be a lifeline for her. After befriending the lesser of the two evils… Gina, she discovers it is a website accessible by invite only, that services provided are for a certain clientele with specific requests and desires. The clientele major base’s, main common element is that those who subscribed are very wealthy and will recompense well.
Seeing this as a last ditch effort to help her family, Casey allows Gina to submit her picture and information, after days she receives an invite to the site. There she meets Jonah, who she realizes seems different to many of those on the website. He appears very honest about himself and she likes that he desires to get to know her first…but her only concern is that he does not send any images of himself, as if he is hiding something. But as things worsens at home, after a month of corresponding, Casey agrees to meet with Jonah and from that meeting everything changes!
I believe Author Nikkie Rae did an excellent job with The Donor. She met the challenge of providing an interesting story-line that keeps readers on the edge of their seat with characters that the reader will care about. The fact that Ms. Rae was able to doso in such a short work is incredible! I enjoyed the story and was throughly upset when I realized that I would have to wait to find out what happens with Casey and Jonah! But each part appears to be released quickly, so my wait will not be too long with the second novella scheduled as an August release! Woot!
The novella was well-written, the paced flowed…there was enough mystery to keep me invested in the story and wanting to know what’s next! I liked Casey,her strength and courage and I liked Jonah his gentleness and caring personality. But there is still that slight edge, not knowing what he actually has planned for Casey!
But let me start from the beginning. The Donor is the first novella in a serial that follows the tale of Casey Williams and Jonah Black. We meet Casey who is basically in dire straits. She is an eighteen year old girl working a dead-end office job that she dislikes. In order to pay for a few semesters of college and to help financially her mother and father, who are at a loss to cover their normal bills, as well as her father’s hospital bills, she sticks with it. But she is not only dealing with her family’s troubles, Casey is ill as well, suffering from extreme headaches and nosebleeds. Her condition worsens by the day, but she does not seek care for herself knowing that her family cannot afford it. So when she hears two of her office mates, Emily, who hates her and Gina, who does not hate her as much… chatting about a website called MyTrueMatch, it appears to be a lifeline for her. After befriending the lesser of the two evils… Gina, she discovers it is a website accessible by invite only, that services provided are for a certain clientele with specific requests and desires. The clientele major base’s, main common element is that those who subscribed are very wealthy and will recompense well.
Seeing this as a last ditch effort to help her family, Casey allows Gina to submit her picture and information, after days she receives an invite to the site. There she meets Jonah, who she realizes seems different to many of those on the website. He appears very honest about himself and she likes that he desires to get to know her first…but her only concern is that he does not send any images of himself, as if he is hiding something. But as things worsens at home, after a month of corresponding, Casey agrees to meet with Jonah and from that meeting everything changes!
I believe Author Nikkie Rae did an excellent job with The Donor. She met the challenge of providing an interesting story-line that keeps readers on the edge of their seat with characters that the reader will care about. The fact that Ms. Rae was able to doso in such a short work is incredible! I enjoyed the story and was throughly upset when I realized that I would have to wait to find out what happens with Casey and Jonah! But each part appears to be released quickly, so my wait will not be too long with the second novella scheduled as an August release! Woot!
The novella was well-written, the paced flowed…there was enough mystery to keep me invested in the story and wanting to know what’s next! I liked Casey,her strength and courage and I liked Jonah his gentleness and caring personality. But there is still that slight edge, not knowing what he actually has planned for Casey!
July 6, 2014
Note: I was provided a copy of this book by the author to review.
As a novella that is to become a fuller story, this is an excellent introduction. The Donor is a short read but it is also one that grabs the reader's attention early on. Not necessarily with grand action or immense tension or suspense, but rather with intrigue and curiosity. I think the coupling of reader curiosity with vagueness and mystery in the story are brilliant ways to capture this story. There is something to look forward to, something that makes the reader keep reading, hoping for answers to questions and unprovided explanations.
Casey as a character is interesting. She is independent and loyal, willing to do anything for her family, even if that means keeping secrets from them. I thought of her as a tad foolish in the beginning, not misguided necessarily but maybe a bit easily swayed. Having said that I also understand her actions, and even if I thought she was unwise in the early pages by the end I was more understanding and began to see her as a bit more as brave than foolish.
What I thought was excellent was the way the story has been written and presented. In terms of narrative direction Rae leads you into thinking one thing, and even if you start forming your own alternate theories and expectations she throws you off course again with a simple sentence, something which Rae is extremely skilled at doing. There are flashbacks woven in with present events which draws out the mystery and the answers you are waiting for while also providing us with history and back story allowing the story to progress.
It's wonderful writing, and writing that keeps you engaged while still offering surprises. This story is not written with a focus on constantly keeping you in suspense however, just under a slight blanket of intrigue as you read along. There is also a wonderful joy as you read and become caught up in clever writing and a very well laid out and very well told story.
With The Donor Rae entices you, surrounds you with vagueness, mystery, brilliant narrative, and half given answers that leaves you demanding more.
A longer version of this review was posted on my blog http://lostinagoodbk.wordpress.com/20...
As a novella that is to become a fuller story, this is an excellent introduction. The Donor is a short read but it is also one that grabs the reader's attention early on. Not necessarily with grand action or immense tension or suspense, but rather with intrigue and curiosity. I think the coupling of reader curiosity with vagueness and mystery in the story are brilliant ways to capture this story. There is something to look forward to, something that makes the reader keep reading, hoping for answers to questions and unprovided explanations.
Casey as a character is interesting. She is independent and loyal, willing to do anything for her family, even if that means keeping secrets from them. I thought of her as a tad foolish in the beginning, not misguided necessarily but maybe a bit easily swayed. Having said that I also understand her actions, and even if I thought she was unwise in the early pages by the end I was more understanding and began to see her as a bit more as brave than foolish.
What I thought was excellent was the way the story has been written and presented. In terms of narrative direction Rae leads you into thinking one thing, and even if you start forming your own alternate theories and expectations she throws you off course again with a simple sentence, something which Rae is extremely skilled at doing. There are flashbacks woven in with present events which draws out the mystery and the answers you are waiting for while also providing us with history and back story allowing the story to progress.
It's wonderful writing, and writing that keeps you engaged while still offering surprises. This story is not written with a focus on constantly keeping you in suspense however, just under a slight blanket of intrigue as you read along. There is also a wonderful joy as you read and become caught up in clever writing and a very well laid out and very well told story.
With The Donor Rae entices you, surrounds you with vagueness, mystery, brilliant narrative, and half given answers that leaves you demanding more.
A longer version of this review was posted on my blog http://lostinagoodbk.wordpress.com/20...
August 13, 2014
I received this book for free from the author in exchange for an honest review.
It’s hard to review novellas…because saying much of anything gives away the whole story! But this is an amazing start to a fabulous story. I love Nikki Rae’s writing style. I sped my way through the Sunshine Series and when I found out she had new material coming out, I had to jump on that! This is the story of Casey. After her father suffers a work related injury, her family is forced to downsize quite a lot. They’ve gone from middle class to poor in the blink of an eye. Now Casey is experiencing headaches and nosebleeds; but she knows that they can’t afford for her to go to the doctor and get the necessary tests run. After overhearing a conversation between co-workers, Casey thinks she might have found a solution to her family’s problems; MyTrueMatch.com. But this isn’t your ordinary dating site. Once she’s found a suitable match, she just has to do whatever he wants…and he’ll pay her for it. Jonah seems like a really nice guy. But how much can you really get to know someone over the internet? She’s never even seen his picture! But Casey is desperate, so she takes him up on his offer to buy her a ticket to fly to Boston. She instantly feels at ease with him. But she’s going into this with only a minimal amount of knowledge of what might be expected of her. Just exactly what will his arrangement entail? What secrets will this arrangement reveal about them both? I feel like I’ve been teased! Like my sister got ice cream and I just had to watch her eat it and didn’t get my own! AHHHHHH…. I’m ready for more. I’m excited about where this might go for both characters. Part 2 releases in August… so be on the lookout!
You can check out the whole thing here: http://bookie-monster.com/2014/07/blo...
It’s hard to review novellas…because saying much of anything gives away the whole story! But this is an amazing start to a fabulous story. I love Nikki Rae’s writing style. I sped my way through the Sunshine Series and when I found out she had new material coming out, I had to jump on that! This is the story of Casey. After her father suffers a work related injury, her family is forced to downsize quite a lot. They’ve gone from middle class to poor in the blink of an eye. Now Casey is experiencing headaches and nosebleeds; but she knows that they can’t afford for her to go to the doctor and get the necessary tests run. After overhearing a conversation between co-workers, Casey thinks she might have found a solution to her family’s problems; MyTrueMatch.com. But this isn’t your ordinary dating site. Once she’s found a suitable match, she just has to do whatever he wants…and he’ll pay her for it. Jonah seems like a really nice guy. But how much can you really get to know someone over the internet? She’s never even seen his picture! But Casey is desperate, so she takes him up on his offer to buy her a ticket to fly to Boston. She instantly feels at ease with him. But she’s going into this with only a minimal amount of knowledge of what might be expected of her. Just exactly what will his arrangement entail? What secrets will this arrangement reveal about them both? I feel like I’ve been teased! Like my sister got ice cream and I just had to watch her eat it and didn’t get my own! AHHHHHH…. I’m ready for more. I’m excited about where this might go for both characters. Part 2 releases in August… so be on the lookout!
You can check out the whole thing here: http://bookie-monster.com/2014/07/blo...
Read
July 2, 2014First off, I have little to no experience with short stories, so I can't say how this work compares to others of its genre. However, I can say that I loved this premier installment to what seems a promising series and am left eager for its sequel.
The writing is vivid, flows well, avoids generic clichés, and is in and of itself the most outstanding feature of this piece. Rae is truly an artist with words - but not in the flowery, poetic sense. Instead the style is engrossing in a way that I could best appreciate in retrospect when I realized what a clear image I had of certain scenes, settings and characters.
The in-the-moment plot of this short story is not necessarily eventful, but is skillfully interspersed with interesting background information. The short bursts of present and past, plus the addition of IM conversations to supplement (but not overtake) the story, really add to the flow and build mystery and a quiet intensity. That said, I am really looking forward to seeing how the plot takes off in the next installment. In the authors past works, the plot was often overtaken by meandering writing, so I'd be happy to see something with a stronger sense of direction.
Though I like them so far, the characters haven't had a lot of time to shine yet, so I look forward to seeing more of them in the next installments, too.
But as for this installment, so far it is unfolding perfectly! I especially recommend this to people who are interested in trying out this author's style because it is short (I read it in 20 minutes) and a great showcase of her writing.
The writing is vivid, flows well, avoids generic clichés, and is in and of itself the most outstanding feature of this piece. Rae is truly an artist with words - but not in the flowery, poetic sense. Instead the style is engrossing in a way that I could best appreciate in retrospect when I realized what a clear image I had of certain scenes, settings and characters.
The in-the-moment plot of this short story is not necessarily eventful, but is skillfully interspersed with interesting background information. The short bursts of present and past, plus the addition of IM conversations to supplement (but not overtake) the story, really add to the flow and build mystery and a quiet intensity. That said, I am really looking forward to seeing how the plot takes off in the next installment. In the authors past works, the plot was often overtaken by meandering writing, so I'd be happy to see something with a stronger sense of direction.
Though I like them so far, the characters haven't had a lot of time to shine yet, so I look forward to seeing more of them in the next installments, too.
But as for this installment, so far it is unfolding perfectly! I especially recommend this to people who are interested in trying out this author's style because it is short (I read it in 20 minutes) and a great showcase of her writing.
July 18, 2014
See full review @ The Indigo Quill
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Okay so my review for this is going to be a little different since this is the first volume of a series of novellas. Oh. my. lanta. I am really anxious for the next novella!! Nikki Rae's writing style is smooth and consistent while her story development is rich in content.
The Donor begins with Casey, an 18-year-old who works to make ends meet for herself and her family. A co-worker tells her about this website called MyTrueMatch.com. Granted, we assume what this site is used for. But as the story unfolds, we get a better glimpse into what this website is really about. Thus, Rae sets quite the mystery into motion and leaves you nothing short of wanting more.
So far, I've been captured in these first 31 pages. I wish I could write more, but it was over before I knew it, and the reader is left on a bit of a cliffhanger. It's going to be difficult waiting for the next installment!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Okay so my review for this is going to be a little different since this is the first volume of a series of novellas. Oh. my. lanta. I am really anxious for the next novella!! Nikki Rae's writing style is smooth and consistent while her story development is rich in content.
The Donor begins with Casey, an 18-year-old who works to make ends meet for herself and her family. A co-worker tells her about this website called MyTrueMatch.com. Granted, we assume what this site is used for. But as the story unfolds, we get a better glimpse into what this website is really about. Thus, Rae sets quite the mystery into motion and leaves you nothing short of wanting more.
So far, I've been captured in these first 31 pages. I wish I could write more, but it was over before I knew it, and the reader is left on a bit of a cliffhanger. It's going to be difficult waiting for the next installment!
July 22, 2014
Casey Williams is a recent high school graduate still living at home with her parents. Her family is as poor as church mice but both her parents and Casey work non-stop, trying to keep a roof over all of their heads. They're just about making ends meet - barely - but they're still managing to pay the bills each month.
Then the headaches start. And the inexplicable nosebleeds. And the inevitable doctor's bills. Casey needs help, and she needs it fast.
Fortunately for Casey, there is the website MyTrueMatch.com: an exclusive, quick, and relatively simple way to pay her own medical bills, and her parents wouldn't even have to know. All she has to do is meet with Jonah Black - MyTrueMatch's local representative - he would certainly be able to assist her.
I must say that my senses were on high alert right from the start of this story that something bad would happen to Casey - the entire situation was creepy to me, but I couldn't quite pinpoint what it was that made me so uneasy. I'm interested to discover how this novella will develop, but it certainly is an eye-opening start - I give The Donor Part One by Nikki Rae an A!
Then the headaches start. And the inexplicable nosebleeds. And the inevitable doctor's bills. Casey needs help, and she needs it fast.
Fortunately for Casey, there is the website MyTrueMatch.com: an exclusive, quick, and relatively simple way to pay her own medical bills, and her parents wouldn't even have to know. All she has to do is meet with Jonah Black - MyTrueMatch's local representative - he would certainly be able to assist her.
I must say that my senses were on high alert right from the start of this story that something bad would happen to Casey - the entire situation was creepy to me, but I couldn't quite pinpoint what it was that made me so uneasy. I'm interested to discover how this novella will develop, but it certainly is an eye-opening start - I give The Donor Part One by Nikki Rae an A!
August 31, 2014
I will be very honest, I had never heard of Nikki Rae until I was asked to read the Sunshine series for an honest review, then I wanted to read more of her books.
This one The Donor, I was very sceptical to read though. As I didn't want to spoil what I had just read. (If that makes sense).
Anyway I started to read it and found it very similar as I had no idea what was going to happen next.
It made me very curious and excited wanting to know what was going to happen.
Well I suppose you want a rough outline on this book.
Without giving anything away..........
Casey is a young girl living at home, her father has been in an extremely bad accident at work and to put it bluntly medical bills are high and putting a huge strain on family life.
Whilst at work one day, one of her work friends lets her in on a way of getting big money in quick time (a small amount of time).
I don't really want to say anymore because it will spoil the story.
It was a short story. BUT well done Nikki it is absolutely fantastic.
I really look forward to reading the next one and more of your books.
This one The Donor, I was very sceptical to read though. As I didn't want to spoil what I had just read. (If that makes sense).
Anyway I started to read it and found it very similar as I had no idea what was going to happen next.
It made me very curious and excited wanting to know what was going to happen.
Well I suppose you want a rough outline on this book.
Without giving anything away..........
Casey is a young girl living at home, her father has been in an extremely bad accident at work and to put it bluntly medical bills are high and putting a huge strain on family life.
Whilst at work one day, one of her work friends lets her in on a way of getting big money in quick time (a small amount of time).
I don't really want to say anymore because it will spoil the story.
It was a short story. BUT well done Nikki it is absolutely fantastic.
I really look forward to reading the next one and more of your books.
June 9, 2014
This review and more on So Bookalicious
Nikki is probably one of my favorite independent authors. Her Sunshine series was amazing so when I heard she was working on a new project I was ecstatic.
Even though The Donor is only a short story of twenty-seven pages Nikki manages to pull you right into the story. With her books it’s impossible not to get sucked into it directly. She even manages to let me feel connected with the main characters in those few pages. So many things already happened in this novella, without it being an overload. Nikki revealed everything bit by bit so that you had the time to come up with your own conclusions. Many things I suspected but not Casey’s story. I am looking forward to learn more about Casey and Jonah.
I can’t wait till the next part in this novella comes out in August. The Donor is definitely recommended to everyone!
Nikki is probably one of my favorite independent authors. Her Sunshine series was amazing so when I heard she was working on a new project I was ecstatic.
Even though The Donor is only a short story of twenty-seven pages Nikki manages to pull you right into the story. With her books it’s impossible not to get sucked into it directly. She even manages to let me feel connected with the main characters in those few pages. So many things already happened in this novella, without it being an overload. Nikki revealed everything bit by bit so that you had the time to come up with your own conclusions. Many things I suspected but not Casey’s story. I am looking forward to learn more about Casey and Jonah.
I can’t wait till the next part in this novella comes out in August. The Donor is definitely recommended to everyone!
June 21, 2014
Full Review at: What's Beyond Forks?
The Donor is part one in a three part novella by Nikki Rae. I knew it was going to be super short when I started reading it, but that didn't stop me from wanting the pages to keep going once I reached the end. This first part was a tease. It introduced us to the main characters, let us know a little about what was going on, got us interested in the characters, and then stopped. Nooo! But I'm not worried, more is coming. Nikki Rae has show us with the Sunshine series, that she knows how to keep her readers wanting more, ans it looks like she's going to keep that up with this new three part novella. So far, I'm very intrigued by Casey and Jonah. I'm excited for more.
The ARC of The Donor Part 1 by Nikki Rae was kindly provided to me by the author for review. The opinions are my own.
June 8, 2014
Despite The Donor's intriguing synopsis I had doubts whether a book that was going to take me around 10 minutes to read would deliver. However, these were completely unfounded because Nikki Rae's first installment of The Donor series completely grips the reader.
Nikki Rae's technique is to allow us to make assumptions about the story, but she then shocks us by allowing the plot to develop in the opposite direction.
It would be unfair of me to go into detail about the story because I may unintentionally give away a spoiler, but the author does not attempt to introduce a huge variety if characters, instead we have Jonah, Casey and the catalyst for their meeting, Gina.
Normally I would prefer to read a full-length novel, but by delivering this series in these short stories we become gripped and our interest is piqued, ready for Nikki Rae's next release.
Nikki Rae's technique is to allow us to make assumptions about the story, but she then shocks us by allowing the plot to develop in the opposite direction.
It would be unfair of me to go into detail about the story because I may unintentionally give away a spoiler, but the author does not attempt to introduce a huge variety if characters, instead we have Jonah, Casey and the catalyst for their meeting, Gina.
Normally I would prefer to read a full-length novel, but by delivering this series in these short stories we become gripped and our interest is piqued, ready for Nikki Rae's next release.
June 9, 2014
OMG! Nikki!!! I NEED MORE!! Aaaah! I knew, I knew, I knew!
I so knew this was a short story and it was part one but I was so consumed with the story and it ended!
It was my first short story serial and it was AWESOME!!
When I turned the page and saw, To Be Continued... I nearly lost my mind!
I am excited that I got the chance to read the ARC and I cannot wait to beg for Part Two!! Nikki I heart you.
This story is intriguing and gripping. It has mystery qualities and I love where it ends up even if it was a huge cliffhanger!!
Would I recommend it?? Um hell yeah! I love, love Nikki's writing and The Donor: Part One is no exception. I cannot wait to read Part Two! I heart Casey and I am definitely intrigued by Jonah and the entire situation! I will be waiting on pins and needles until i get my ARC of The Donor: Part Two! (Hint, hint, Nikki)
I so knew this was a short story and it was part one but I was so consumed with the story and it ended!
It was my first short story serial and it was AWESOME!!
When I turned the page and saw, To Be Continued... I nearly lost my mind!
I am excited that I got the chance to read the ARC and I cannot wait to beg for Part Two!! Nikki I heart you.
This story is intriguing and gripping. It has mystery qualities and I love where it ends up even if it was a huge cliffhanger!!
Would I recommend it?? Um hell yeah! I love, love Nikki's writing and The Donor: Part One is no exception. I cannot wait to read Part Two! I heart Casey and I am definitely intrigued by Jonah and the entire situation! I will be waiting on pins and needles until i get my ARC of The Donor: Part Two! (Hint, hint, Nikki)
August 23, 2015
The Donor begins when Casey finds out some tragic news. Now, she wants to do everything she can to make sure her family will be taken care of when the time comes. She doesn't want them to have to work even harder later on to pay for all the bills, and is hoping she has found the solution on a website her friend told her about...
The Donor is something I didn't expect, and totally something I've never read before. I mean seriously, I've never read anything like this one before, and it sort of blew me away. It took a little while for me to decide my actual thoughts about it, but I finally did decide.
I really liked this book! It has a very intriguing story line, and it was written in a way that was both intriguing and a bit frustrating. I also really liked both of the main characters and I can not wait to read more!
The Donor is something I didn't expect, and totally something I've never read before. I mean seriously, I've never read anything like this one before, and it sort of blew me away. It took a little while for me to decide my actual thoughts about it, but I finally did decide.
I really liked this book! It has a very intriguing story line, and it was written in a way that was both intriguing and a bit frustrating. I also really liked both of the main characters and I can not wait to read more!
August 11, 2014
My review? Once I started, I wanted to read the whole book in one sitting, not just part one. Simple.
Nikki Rae expertly draws you in, introducing Casey and her heartbreaking story through some short narration and online correspondence. As you begin to read, lots of juicy need-to-the-answer-to questions pile up and just as you think you may be unravelling the first big plot element, part one finishes . . . nooooo!
Even if I am not lucky enough to receive a review copy of the next part of The Donor, I will be watching and waiting to instantly download as soon it’s available.
Review by Charlotte Foreman on behalf of BestChickLit.com
Nikki Rae expertly draws you in, introducing Casey and her heartbreaking story through some short narration and online correspondence. As you begin to read, lots of juicy need-to-the-answer-to questions pile up and just as you think you may be unravelling the first big plot element, part one finishes . . . nooooo!
Even if I am not lucky enough to receive a review copy of the next part of The Donor, I will be watching and waiting to instantly download as soon it’s available.
Review by Charlotte Foreman on behalf of BestChickLit.com
September 11, 2014
What an intriguing first part to series. It got me hooked, now I need more. This story took a few twists I didn't see coming but I found them to be quite good and kept me guessing. This story ended abruptly but I understand this is the first part of many more to come so I will be waiting on pins and needles until I can read more. It is amazing what people will pay for and what people will do for money. He seems like a descent guy with compassion. She really needs the money and is willing to go to a scary situation to make it to help her parents.
August 12, 2015
*A complimentary copy of this book was given to me by the author in exchange for my honest review.*
As I finished this novella last night, I thought to myself, "I'm going to have to sleep on this before I write a review." I dreamt of this book. I thought maybe I could possibly finish it in my dreams. Silly, right? I don't think so, IMHO. While reading, I was in a whole lot of suspense. I was anxious to know how it would end. I was a little on guard because I have read Nikki's Sunshine series, and I was expecting something darker. Yet, there was this vibe that it would possibly get darker in the next installments. Just how much darker? I do not know. What I do know is that this story is layered. The switch from 'now' to 'then' is what gave this story layers. The realness, by which I mean the emotions, from Casey & Noah gives this story depth. She's dying, and willing to do anything to save her family from financial ruin. As Casey said, it could have been a lot worse, with someone a lot worse. I'm going to tell you my favorite part of this novella. Casey and Noah. It's obvious that Casey hasn't loved before. Noah, has been through the ringer himself, being a vampire and having his life taken away. He had a family, even though I'm fairly certain it was not perfect, especially with his daughter's condition. But to my point, these are two different people who both have experienced being alone. Each in their own way. So when I saw these two come together, it was almost heartbreaking. Yet, beautiful. I can see how Noah cares for Casey and visa-versa. I'm not on edge as much as I thought I'd be with the ending, it just makes you want to read more. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this novella, it really made me, the reader, think & even dream. THAT'S what I love about great books. The fact that they stick with you even after you've finished. :)
As I finished this novella last night, I thought to myself, "I'm going to have to sleep on this before I write a review." I dreamt of this book. I thought maybe I could possibly finish it in my dreams. Silly, right? I don't think so, IMHO. While reading, I was in a whole lot of suspense. I was anxious to know how it would end. I was a little on guard because I have read Nikki's Sunshine series, and I was expecting something darker. Yet, there was this vibe that it would possibly get darker in the next installments. Just how much darker? I do not know. What I do know is that this story is layered. The switch from 'now' to 'then' is what gave this story layers. The realness, by which I mean the emotions, from Casey & Noah gives this story depth. She's dying, and willing to do anything to save her family from financial ruin. As Casey said, it could have been a lot worse, with someone a lot worse. I'm going to tell you my favorite part of this novella. Casey and Noah. It's obvious that Casey hasn't loved before. Noah, has been through the ringer himself, being a vampire and having his life taken away. He had a family, even though I'm fairly certain it was not perfect, especially with his daughter's condition. But to my point, these are two different people who both have experienced being alone. Each in their own way. So when I saw these two come together, it was almost heartbreaking. Yet, beautiful. I can see how Noah cares for Casey and visa-versa. I'm not on edge as much as I thought I'd be with the ending, it just makes you want to read more. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this novella, it really made me, the reader, think & even dream. THAT'S what I love about great books. The fact that they stick with you even after you've finished. :)
December 26, 2014
ARC provided by NetGalley:
Decent enough story although a bit hard to follow. I have a feeling the story will come together with future installments. Lesson to myself: wait for all parts of a story to be released before reading.
Decent enough story although a bit hard to follow. I have a feeling the story will come together with future installments. Lesson to myself: wait for all parts of a story to be released before reading.
May 11, 2014
Short novella...
FULL review to come during tour ~ October 30th
FULL review to come during tour ~ October 30th
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