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Legends of the Middle Kingdom #1
The Longing
Everyone longs for undying love...if only it can be found in this world.
Jobless and betrayed by his friends, aspiring writer Aaron Pace flees to Shanghai, a glittering metropolis promising love and fortune. An exclusive poker party thrusts him into China's elite world, catching heiress Audrey Chen’s eye. After losing, Aaron is forced to spend a night in a haunted mansion, encountering Willow, a spectral beauty who evokes his deepest longing.
Torn between Audrey's golden allure and Willow's otherworldly pull, Aaron's quest for truth plunges him into a perilous war between ancient astral powers and modern moguls, challenging everything he believes about love, reality, and himself.
Prepare to enter a world where fantasies and nightmares play for keeps. Aaron's about to learn that in this game, the most shocking truth might be hiding in plain sight.
Two women. Two worlds. One choice. The price? His soul.
Inspired by Pu Songling's Strange Tales from a Chinese Studio, the seminal paranormal anthology written in the 1600s, THE LONGING series brings the spellbinding world of seductive ghosts, beguiling fox spirits, and demonic shapeshifters to life through a modern Western protagonist's point of view. For the first time, fans of paranormal fantasies can experience a fresh and unique supernatural mythology unlike other works in this genre.
Fans of books by Sarah J. Maas, Carissa Broadbent, Stephanie Garber, and Holly Black will find THE LONGING a thrilling and satisfying read.
Jobless and betrayed by his friends, aspiring writer Aaron Pace flees to Shanghai, a glittering metropolis promising love and fortune. An exclusive poker party thrusts him into China's elite world, catching heiress Audrey Chen’s eye. After losing, Aaron is forced to spend a night in a haunted mansion, encountering Willow, a spectral beauty who evokes his deepest longing.
Torn between Audrey's golden allure and Willow's otherworldly pull, Aaron's quest for truth plunges him into a perilous war between ancient astral powers and modern moguls, challenging everything he believes about love, reality, and himself.
Prepare to enter a world where fantasies and nightmares play for keeps. Aaron's about to learn that in this game, the most shocking truth might be hiding in plain sight.
Two women. Two worlds. One choice. The price? His soul.
Inspired by Pu Songling's Strange Tales from a Chinese Studio, the seminal paranormal anthology written in the 1600s, THE LONGING series brings the spellbinding world of seductive ghosts, beguiling fox spirits, and demonic shapeshifters to life through a modern Western protagonist's point of view. For the first time, fans of paranormal fantasies can experience a fresh and unique supernatural mythology unlike other works in this genre.
Fans of books by Sarah J. Maas, Carissa Broadbent, Stephanie Garber, and Holly Black will find THE LONGING a thrilling and satisfying read.
- GenresFantasy
440 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 29, 2024
85 people are currently reading
179 people want to read
About the author
Ann Rose
5 books14 followersAnn Rose believes a good book should have a beginning, a middle, and an end, but never in that order. She also believes in tormenting her readers so they can never figure out how it's going to end. But she does reward them with compelling characters, humor, unexpected plot twists, and always a splash of romance for good measure.
Before becoming an author, Ann was an award-winning screenwriter for film and TV. Now she's found her happy place crafting mysteries and weaving urban fantasy tales while consuming copious amounts of coffee.
When she's not writing, she's likely watching baking competitions or taking sunset walks with her husband, daughter, and their Maltese-Chihuahua who thinks she rules the world.
For updates on Ann's new releases, sign up for her newsletter. Links are found in all her books. Or visit her website www.annrosebooks.com.
Before becoming an author, Ann was an award-winning screenwriter for film and TV. Now she's found her happy place crafting mysteries and weaving urban fantasy tales while consuming copious amounts of coffee.
When she's not writing, she's likely watching baking competitions or taking sunset walks with her husband, daughter, and their Maltese-Chihuahua who thinks she rules the world.
For updates on Ann's new releases, sign up for her newsletter. Links are found in all her books. Or visit her website www.annrosebooks.com.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
October 9, 2024
I don't know why this isn't already a Netflix series!! Season 1, 16 episodes...I can see it now! There are so many Chinese and Korean drama series out right now that pair historical/mystical with modern day, and The Longing would hold it's own amongst the best of them!
I LOVED this story. Aaron was such an unassuming character at first, but as his story unfolded, more and more facets of his personality were revealed. I also really enjoyed how each character held hidden depths. Very rarely were they who they were 'stereotyped' by society to be.
Every time I thought I had things figured out, the storyline twisted in an unexpected (but good) way. I enjoyed being surprised because, too often, 'what happens next' is usually too obvious.
In a world where nothing is as it seems, ghosts might be real, and no one can be fully trusted, can Aaron stay alive long enough to solve the mystery of the haunting of Royal Garden? Or will the answers just lead to even more questions...
I am now impatiently waiting for Book 2 The Reckoning!
I LOVED this story. Aaron was such an unassuming character at first, but as his story unfolded, more and more facets of his personality were revealed. I also really enjoyed how each character held hidden depths. Very rarely were they who they were 'stereotyped' by society to be.
Every time I thought I had things figured out, the storyline twisted in an unexpected (but good) way. I enjoyed being surprised because, too often, 'what happens next' is usually too obvious.
In a world where nothing is as it seems, ghosts might be real, and no one can be fully trusted, can Aaron stay alive long enough to solve the mystery of the haunting of Royal Garden? Or will the answers just lead to even more questions...
I am now impatiently waiting for Book 2 The Reckoning!
October 11, 2024
-3.5/5-
Thank you Ann Rose for giving me the absolute honor to be part of your ARC team.
Im confusd, the first chapters were so slow and hard to stay focused on but then the last 5 chapters changed everything, then came the last chapter with brilliant plot twist I truly didn't see coming, how's that even possible,
Ann in this book took me from "why I'm torturing myself by reading it' position to 'what the hell is going on' and now she made longing for the next one.
it's good book for this season, should be read with clear mind, grab your coffee or tea, sit by your fire place or in your most comfortable place, take your time to process what's happening, there is a lot of details you should focus on, and just enjoy it, and deffintly Im rereading it again.
Thank you Ann Rose for giving me the absolute honor to be part of your ARC team.
Im confusd, the first chapters were so slow and hard to stay focused on but then the last 5 chapters changed everything, then came the last chapter with brilliant plot twist I truly didn't see coming, how's that even possible,
Ann in this book took me from "why I'm torturing myself by reading it' position to 'what the hell is going on' and now she made longing for the next one.
it's good book for this season, should be read with clear mind, grab your coffee or tea, sit by your fire place or in your most comfortable place, take your time to process what's happening, there is a lot of details you should focus on, and just enjoy it, and deffintly Im rereading it again.
October 31, 2024
Thank you for allowing me to be an Advanced Reader of this book!
I have to admit, the beginning was slow enough that I had to drop a star. But, despite that, the author does weave everything together and creates a fast-paced and satisfying ending with a twist. It is worth it to read to the end. The characters start off having very stereotypical traits and attitudes, but as the story progresses they begin to take on a life of their own. I enjoyed that no one character was completely good or completely bad, and the pull between Audrey and Willow didn't feel like a stereotypical love triangle.
I especially loved the cultural and historical aspects at play in the book. It was very interesting that it was told through Aaron's point of view - someone who was obviously not as familiar with Shanghai or the history and stories of the culture. It allowed the author to explain the world enough for any reader to follow along without having to resort to chapters of info-dumping, which I appreciated. I think that touch coupled with the modern aspects of the story running alongside the past/ghost aspect of the story grants a really unique take on a paranormal romance. I've never had the pleasure of encountering a book quite like this one.
A great debut novel and I hope to see more from Ann Rose in the future!
I have to admit, the beginning was slow enough that I had to drop a star. But, despite that, the author does weave everything together and creates a fast-paced and satisfying ending with a twist. It is worth it to read to the end. The characters start off having very stereotypical traits and attitudes, but as the story progresses they begin to take on a life of their own. I enjoyed that no one character was completely good or completely bad, and the pull between Audrey and Willow didn't feel like a stereotypical love triangle.
I especially loved the cultural and historical aspects at play in the book. It was very interesting that it was told through Aaron's point of view - someone who was obviously not as familiar with Shanghai or the history and stories of the culture. It allowed the author to explain the world enough for any reader to follow along without having to resort to chapters of info-dumping, which I appreciated. I think that touch coupled with the modern aspects of the story running alongside the past/ghost aspect of the story grants a really unique take on a paranormal romance. I've never had the pleasure of encountering a book quite like this one.
A great debut novel and I hope to see more from Ann Rose in the future!
November 20, 2024
I had the privilege of reading an advanced copy of The Longing. The Longing masterfully weaves a tale of love, loss, and the supernatural in a shadowy urban setting. The story is gripping, with richly developed characters and a brooding, gothic atmosphere that lingers long after the final page. Its themes of forbidden love and redemption are beautifully explored, while vivid imagery and lyrical prose pull readers into its dark, enchanting world. Perfect for fans of dark fantasy and haunting romance, this book delivers suspense, emotion, and a touch of the otherworldly.
October 11, 2024
I feel like whatever I write here won’t do the story justice! So many layers. Such beauty.
This book was such a cool ride. Set in Shanghai with haunted houses, maniacal laughing women, and the astral plane…. I was here for it all! I love a good undercurrent and this novel had the best one. I refuse to give any story pieces away, so suffice it to say, pick this book up if you’re wanting a great paranormal experience.
I loved the cast of characters, with all of them feeling vibrant and thoroughly done. The writing was easy to follow and of page turning quality. My absolute favorite were the bookish and pop culture breadcrumbs the author left in her wake for us to nibble on throughout the novel. I live for those!
I would love to see A24 pick this up and give us a movie or a show based on this storyline. I feel like it would be done so well and give us all the immaculate vibes. This story had such perfect fall feels for me with the ghosts and the other-worldly fun we got to have. I’ll definitely move forward and read the next one. I have favorite characters! I have thoughts! I am INVESTED here. Impatiently waiting for The Reckoning to grace my shelf.
This book was such a cool ride. Set in Shanghai with haunted houses, maniacal laughing women, and the astral plane…. I was here for it all! I love a good undercurrent and this novel had the best one. I refuse to give any story pieces away, so suffice it to say, pick this book up if you’re wanting a great paranormal experience.
I loved the cast of characters, with all of them feeling vibrant and thoroughly done. The writing was easy to follow and of page turning quality. My absolute favorite were the bookish and pop culture breadcrumbs the author left in her wake for us to nibble on throughout the novel. I live for those!
I would love to see A24 pick this up and give us a movie or a show based on this storyline. I feel like it would be done so well and give us all the immaculate vibes. This story had such perfect fall feels for me with the ghosts and the other-worldly fun we got to have. I’ll definitely move forward and read the next one. I have favorite characters! I have thoughts! I am INVESTED here. Impatiently waiting for The Reckoning to grace my shelf.
October 31, 2024
Rating: 4.25/5
"The Longing" by Ann Rose is an intriguing dive into a world filled with rich lore, where themes of death and the spirit realm weave together beautifully. Although this isn't my typical genre, I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly I found myself absorbed in the story. Ann Rose does a remarkable job of painting a hauntingly vivid world that lingers in the mind.
One minor issue I encountered was the pacing—at times, scenes moved too slowly, only to shift into faster segments that felt slightly rushed. However, this didn’t detract too much from the overall narrative, and I’m sure with a bit of fine-tuning, it would be nearly flawless.
I’m already looking forward to book two to see where Rose takes this story next, as her world-building and the captivating spiritual elements leave a lasting impression.
"The Longing" by Ann Rose is an intriguing dive into a world filled with rich lore, where themes of death and the spirit realm weave together beautifully. Although this isn't my typical genre, I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly I found myself absorbed in the story. Ann Rose does a remarkable job of painting a hauntingly vivid world that lingers in the mind.
One minor issue I encountered was the pacing—at times, scenes moved too slowly, only to shift into faster segments that felt slightly rushed. However, this didn’t detract too much from the overall narrative, and I’m sure with a bit of fine-tuning, it would be nearly flawless.
I’m already looking forward to book two to see where Rose takes this story next, as her world-building and the captivating spiritual elements leave a lasting impression.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 13, 2024
thank you to ann for sending me the ARC.
a great story with wonderfully well written characters. they had depth with each possessing many layers to get through to fully understand each character. working towards piecing together willow’s death and aaron’s draw towards audrey, creates an interesting tale with a creative take on “strange tales from a chinese studio”.
if you’re looking for a great paranormal and historical anthology, this work certainly has the potential for it. i look forward to when the second, the reckoning, is released.
a great story with wonderfully well written characters. they had depth with each possessing many layers to get through to fully understand each character. working towards piecing together willow’s death and aaron’s draw towards audrey, creates an interesting tale with a creative take on “strange tales from a chinese studio”.
if you’re looking for a great paranormal and historical anthology, this work certainly has the potential for it. i look forward to when the second, the reckoning, is released.
November 1, 2024
The Longing by Anne Rose <3
I honestly enjoyed the book, but I feel that near the beginning was very slow. I wanted the story to be more
Focused with Aaron (mmc) , Audrey and Willow. I felt like the connection between Aaron, Audrey and Willow were so good! I was yearning for more focus towards these people . It seems the stores digressed to other people.
The most intriguing parts of the book is the last 5 chapters as well as the history included in this read. I was so intrigued in learning about emperor Yongzheng and the poets Li Bai, Bai Juyi, Du Pu, and Wang Wei.” Some of their poems got to make it in the book which made it enjoyable.
My favorite quote from the book is, “Though I sail a thousand seas passing a million stars, I will never be free of you”.
Thank you Anne rose for this read ! I can’t wait to see the story evolve in the next series.
I honestly enjoyed the book, but I feel that near the beginning was very slow. I wanted the story to be more
Focused with Aaron (mmc) , Audrey and Willow. I felt like the connection between Aaron, Audrey and Willow were so good! I was yearning for more focus towards these people . It seems the stores digressed to other people.
The most intriguing parts of the book is the last 5 chapters as well as the history included in this read. I was so intrigued in learning about emperor Yongzheng and the poets Li Bai, Bai Juyi, Du Pu, and Wang Wei.” Some of their poems got to make it in the book which made it enjoyable.
My favorite quote from the book is, “Though I sail a thousand seas passing a million stars, I will never be free of you”.
Thank you Anne rose for this read ! I can’t wait to see the story evolve in the next series.
October 24, 2024
Welcome to a dazzling world where love is undying, ghosts roam, and poker games can lead you straight to a haunted mansion! If that doesn't scream adventure, I don’t know what does!
Meet Aaron Pace, an aspiring writer whose life just took a nosedive into the dumpster of betrayal and joblessness.
Fleeing to Shanghai, he’s on a quest for fortune and love, but spoiler alert: he might just find something a bit more... supernatural.
After getting roped into an exclusive poker party (because who doesn’t want to gamble their soul away?), Aaron catches the eye of the stunning heiress Audrey Chen. But when fortune doesn’t favour him at the table, he’s forced to spend the night in a haunted mansion.
Enter Willow, the spectral beauty who ignites a longing deeper than any flush or full house. Talk about being torn between two worlds!
The interplay between the glittering elite and the haunting supernatural is beautifully crafted. Ann Rose crafts a tale rich with mythology, inspired by Pu Songling's Strange Tales from a Chinese Studio. It’s like stepping into a lush painting where every stroke tells a story, mystical, enchanting, and filled with danger.
As Aaron grapples with his feelings for Audrey and the irresistible pull of Willow, he’s thrust into a high stakes war between ancient astral powers and modern moguls. Who knew love could be so complicated? Will he choose the life of the living or the allure of the spectral? And what does it really mean to long for something?
The Longing isn’t just a paranormal romance; it’s an exploration of identity, desire, and the essence of love itself. Get ready for shocking twists, otherworldly encounters, and a journey that challenges everything Aaron believes about reality and himself.
If you’re a fan of paranormal fantasies with a fresh twist, The Longing is a must-read! Dive into a world of seductive ghosts, beguiling fox spirits, and the kind of choices that could cost you your soul!
Meet Aaron Pace, an aspiring writer whose life just took a nosedive into the dumpster of betrayal and joblessness.
Fleeing to Shanghai, he’s on a quest for fortune and love, but spoiler alert: he might just find something a bit more... supernatural.
After getting roped into an exclusive poker party (because who doesn’t want to gamble their soul away?), Aaron catches the eye of the stunning heiress Audrey Chen. But when fortune doesn’t favour him at the table, he’s forced to spend the night in a haunted mansion.
Enter Willow, the spectral beauty who ignites a longing deeper than any flush or full house. Talk about being torn between two worlds!
The interplay between the glittering elite and the haunting supernatural is beautifully crafted. Ann Rose crafts a tale rich with mythology, inspired by Pu Songling's Strange Tales from a Chinese Studio. It’s like stepping into a lush painting where every stroke tells a story, mystical, enchanting, and filled with danger.
As Aaron grapples with his feelings for Audrey and the irresistible pull of Willow, he’s thrust into a high stakes war between ancient astral powers and modern moguls. Who knew love could be so complicated? Will he choose the life of the living or the allure of the spectral? And what does it really mean to long for something?
The Longing isn’t just a paranormal romance; it’s an exploration of identity, desire, and the essence of love itself. Get ready for shocking twists, otherworldly encounters, and a journey that challenges everything Aaron believes about reality and himself.
If you’re a fan of paranormal fantasies with a fresh twist, The Longing is a must-read! Dive into a world of seductive ghosts, beguiling fox spirits, and the kind of choices that could cost you your soul!
January 17, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
🌶.5
I am extremely pleased with this book. The ending had me in TEARS, and I am now in eager await for the second book, "The Reckoning."
This book follows Aaron, a young teacher/writer from America, who comes to Shanghai to start anew after losing his love to his friend and his mother to cancer. He soon finds himself lusted after by the daughter of one of Shanghai's most rich and powerful men. Meanwhile, Aaron finds himself drawn toward and longing for another, a paranormal entity, whom he finds he must save from the hands of Madam Fu and her energy siphoning/redistributing brothel.
There was rarely a dull moment in this story. I do have to giggle a little when I think of Aaron drinking/eating everything he's given with all the trust in the world. I believe that's why he gets into half the trouble he's in. He blacks out on more than one occasion, and Shanghai's sweetheart, Audrey Chen, is always the one to save him. His character arc was by far my favorite as he learns how to navigate his new strengths and grasps an understanding on what could cause him weakness.
As the kids say nowadays. This book ate and definitely left no crumbs. I will definitely be reading it again, and it will always be on my recommendation list to others.
Trigger warning: implied prostitution- not detailed in graphic way, but power is definitely taken away from the "courtesan."
🌶.5
I am extremely pleased with this book. The ending had me in TEARS, and I am now in eager await for the second book, "The Reckoning."
This book follows Aaron, a young teacher/writer from America, who comes to Shanghai to start anew after losing his love to his friend and his mother to cancer. He soon finds himself lusted after by the daughter of one of Shanghai's most rich and powerful men. Meanwhile, Aaron finds himself drawn toward and longing for another, a paranormal entity, whom he finds he must save from the hands of Madam Fu and her energy siphoning/redistributing brothel.
There was rarely a dull moment in this story. I do have to giggle a little when I think of Aaron drinking/eating everything he's given with all the trust in the world. I believe that's why he gets into half the trouble he's in. He blacks out on more than one occasion, and Shanghai's sweetheart, Audrey Chen, is always the one to save him. His character arc was by far my favorite as he learns how to navigate his new strengths and grasps an understanding on what could cause him weakness.
As the kids say nowadays. This book ate and definitely left no crumbs. I will definitely be reading it again, and it will always be on my recommendation list to others.
Trigger warning: implied prostitution- not detailed in graphic way, but power is definitely taken away from the "courtesan."
October 26, 2025
Do you believe in fantasy that’s entangled with karma and past lives? If you do, this book will resonate deeply.
As an ardent believer in karmic destiny and the way our actions ripple through lifetimes, I found this story beautifully reflective.
It follows a teacher whose search for meaning takes him across oceans, only to find himself caught in an otherworldly realm where he meets a soul trapped by longing for her lost love. Together, they must face their karmic burdens and make choices that test the essence of good, evil, and redemption.
Personally, I felt the book carried a deeper, hidden message — about the selfless desire to help someone, regardless of your social standing, physical strength, or emotional capacity. The idea that you can go so far as to sacrifice your own peace to lift another’s soul is profoundly moving. It reminds us that compassion itself can dissolve karmic barriers and lead us toward spiritual awakening.
Even the minor characters add dimension and meaning, enriching the book’s reflection on fate, choice, and the cycles of karma.
If you’re drawn to stories that blend spirituality, destiny, love, and moral introspection, this book is worth picking up. I truly enjoyed it.
As an ardent believer in karmic destiny and the way our actions ripple through lifetimes, I found this story beautifully reflective.
It follows a teacher whose search for meaning takes him across oceans, only to find himself caught in an otherworldly realm where he meets a soul trapped by longing for her lost love. Together, they must face their karmic burdens and make choices that test the essence of good, evil, and redemption.
Personally, I felt the book carried a deeper, hidden message — about the selfless desire to help someone, regardless of your social standing, physical strength, or emotional capacity. The idea that you can go so far as to sacrifice your own peace to lift another’s soul is profoundly moving. It reminds us that compassion itself can dissolve karmic barriers and lead us toward spiritual awakening.
Even the minor characters add dimension and meaning, enriching the book’s reflection on fate, choice, and the cycles of karma.
If you’re drawn to stories that blend spirituality, destiny, love, and moral introspection, this book is worth picking up. I truly enjoyed it.
October 31, 2024
Ann Rose's debut novel, The Longing, is a mesmerizing journey that blends fantasy, suspense, and romance in a way that will leave you spellbound. The story revolves around Aaron Pace, a struggling writer who unexpectedly finds himself immersed in a world of incredible wealth and ancient secrets in vibrant Shanghai. Rose does a wonderful job bringing the city to life, capturing its dazzling skyline while revealing the mysterious supernatural layers lurking beneath the surface.
The characters are wonderfully developed, especially the intriguing Willow and the captivating Audrey, each stealing a piece of Aaron's heart uniquely. With plot twists that will keep you on your toes and heartfelt exploration of themes like love, loss, and self-discovery, this story offers plenty of depth.
The Longing is a tale that will linger with you long after you've turned the last page. It's a must-read for fans of Neil Gaiman and anyone who loves a dash of the supernatural mixed with their romance.
The characters are wonderfully developed, especially the intriguing Willow and the captivating Audrey, each stealing a piece of Aaron's heart uniquely. With plot twists that will keep you on your toes and heartfelt exploration of themes like love, loss, and self-discovery, this story offers plenty of depth.
The Longing is a tale that will linger with you long after you've turned the last page. It's a must-read for fans of Neil Gaiman and anyone who loves a dash of the supernatural mixed with their romance.
December 19, 2024
I chose this book because I felt drawn to the cover design, title, and description.
This is a romantic suspense thriller set in Shanghai. The protagonist, Aaron, was a wonderful character, and there was something about the way he expressed himself that tugged at my heartstrings; I found that I could identify with him on a deeper level. It wasn't long before I became invested in the story, and I felt it was beautifully written, but dark, eerie and chilling all at the same time. I believe this book is the first in a series, and I would be interested in reading the next one.
I have reading moods, and I chose this when I was in the mood for a darker read. I would recommend this if you like dark fantasy or maybe paranormal romance.
Thank you to Booksprout and the author for a free copy to review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a romantic suspense thriller set in Shanghai. The protagonist, Aaron, was a wonderful character, and there was something about the way he expressed himself that tugged at my heartstrings; I found that I could identify with him on a deeper level. It wasn't long before I became invested in the story, and I felt it was beautifully written, but dark, eerie and chilling all at the same time. I believe this book is the first in a series, and I would be interested in reading the next one.
I have reading moods, and I chose this when I was in the mood for a darker read. I would recommend this if you like dark fantasy or maybe paranormal romance.
Thank you to Booksprout and the author for a free copy to review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 31, 2024
I was able to read an early ARC copy of this book and I couldn't put it down. If you want a story with fully realized characters and a unique setting, then THE LONGING is for you. The main character, Aaron, is very relatable, and the love triangle he stumbles into plays out in some very interesting ways. The supernatural elements are revealed in layers, backed up by a deep mythology inspired by the Eastern classic STRANGE TALES FROM A CHINESE STUDIO. Saying more would spoil the book but there are some great twists and turns that leave you wanting more, and more is on the way. This is the first book of 4.
November 6, 2024
I am always hesitant to pick up a paranormal romance, because although I enjoy paranormal mysteries, authors tend to put in too much romance for my taste. That being said, The Longing was worth the risk. There is just the right balance between the genres to make it an enjoyable read. The book takes a bit to get going, but the author uses this space to lay the groundwork for a deeply enchanting story. The character development was rich, and as the book progressed my empathy for their circumstances grew. I am looking forward to continuing the journey in the next book.
December 19, 2024
This story was written beautifully and the details were compelling.
Aaron, Audrey and Willow are the characters in this story and their stories were intriguing and engaging. I enjoyed the unraveling of their intertwined paths as the story progressed.
I recommend this book to everyone into this genre, and I would read another story from this writer.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Aaron, Audrey and Willow are the characters in this story and their stories were intriguing and engaging. I enjoyed the unraveling of their intertwined paths as the story progressed.
I recommend this book to everyone into this genre, and I would read another story from this writer.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 14, 2025
not my thing
Sorry guys, not my thing! Sorry if that's harsh! Just what I feel. I'm not a fan of how the introduction is set up, and his friends peer pressure him into betting and then threaten hin that he needs to show up somewhere as if his life depends on if because what is this the mafia??? The book just seems stupid and pathetic! Maybe the book gets later on, but I couldn't get past this detail!
Sorry guys, not my thing! Sorry if that's harsh! Just what I feel. I'm not a fan of how the introduction is set up, and his friends peer pressure him into betting and then threaten hin that he needs to show up somewhere as if his life depends on if because what is this the mafia??? The book just seems stupid and pathetic! Maybe the book gets later on, but I couldn't get past this detail!
December 24, 2025
A mesmerizing blend of romance, mythology, and supernatural intrigue. The Longing pulls you into a richly imagined world where love, temptation, and danger collide. Aaron’s emotional journey is compelling, the two female leads are unforgettable, and the fusion of modern Shanghai with ancient astral lore feels fresh and addictive. Dark, romantic, and beautifully atmospheric—this book is impossible to put down.
February 27, 2025
This books starts out terribly slow, builds up then slams a plot twist that leaves you reeling!! I went from semi-bored to "whoa! What the heck!!" in a matter of chapters.
Honestly worth sticking through the first few chapters to really get into the book and begin to see it develop and become something that you want to pursue.
I am ready to see how the story unfolds!!
Honestly worth sticking through the first few chapters to really get into the book and begin to see it develop and become something that you want to pursue.
I am ready to see how the story unfolds!!
October 13, 2025
This short story is actually a prequel to book two of this series. It begins a bit slower than I expected but it picks up steam and flows nicely into a mystery with a twist. I’m looking forward to reading book in order to discover what happens next!
I received this ebook from BookFunnel and this is my honest opinion.
I received this ebook from BookFunnel and this is my honest opinion.
October 28, 2025
I received an ARC for this book. It started out slow and I was confused early on into the start of the book. Ann takes you into this world with Aaron. It leads you to a love triangle and immersing you into paranormal realm.
October 7, 2025
I loved the setting and the end surprised me! If you like fantasy and mysteries then this is worth a read.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews