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Destiny #1
Destiny
Self-reliant Reagan Nichols is used to challenges, but ever since twilight fell over Spirit Lake and that murky mist oozed inland, everything felt surreal. She thought she escaped to her isolated cabin to come to terms with her secret past, but when she finds a little girl wandering through the eerie fog, Reagan's attention shifts. Mesmerized by the child, she vows to save the little girl's father from the bowels of a ghostly vessel adrift on the lake. When she manages to find the cocky Jason Monaco aboard the nefarious ship, a supernatural force plots against them. Will they survive a confrontation with pure evil to meet their Destiny?
Award-winning "Destiny" is a novelette––shorter than a novella but longer than a short story––and a winner in the AWC's 2013 writing contest. The judges’
"At first this story reels you in to what appears to be a formula romance. Then it turns the genre on its head, throwing a perfectly aimed, delightful curveball at the surprising and satisfying end. The writer doesn't rush any part of the story, letting the reader see, hear, and feel the magical eeriness of one fateful night."
If you like Destiny, book one of Casi McLean's Destiny Series, you'll love the unique magical twist in every story in her series. Buy each romantic suspense saga separately or SAVE by purchasing all five together in "Destiny Series, Five Novelettes With A Twist."
Award-winning "Destiny" is a novelette––shorter than a novella but longer than a short story––and a winner in the AWC's 2013 writing contest. The judges’
"At first this story reels you in to what appears to be a formula romance. Then it turns the genre on its head, throwing a perfectly aimed, delightful curveball at the surprising and satisfying end. The writer doesn't rush any part of the story, letting the reader see, hear, and feel the magical eeriness of one fateful night."
If you like Destiny, book one of Casi McLean's Destiny Series, you'll love the unique magical twist in every story in her series. Buy each romantic suspense saga separately or SAVE by purchasing all five together in "Destiny Series, Five Novelettes With A Twist."
37 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 18, 2014
34 people are currently reading
57 people want to read
About the author
Casi McLean
38 books674 followersUSA Today & Amazon Best Selling Author, Casi McLean, pens novels to stir the soul with romance, suspense, and a sprinkle of magic. Her writing crosses genres from ethereal, captivating shorts with eerie twist endings to believable time slips, mystical plots, and sensual romantic suspense.
Known for enchanting stories with magical description, McLean entices readers with fascinating hooks to hold them captive in storylines they can't put down. Her romance entwines strong, believable heroines with delicious, hot heroes to tempt the deepest desires, then fans the flames, sweeping readers into their innermost romantic fantasies.
With suspenseful settings and lovable characters you'll devour, you'll see, hear, and feel the magical eeriness of one fateful night. You'll swear time travel could happen, be mystified by other worldly images, and feel the heat of romantic suspense, but most of all you'll want more.
Casi's latest series enters the realm of political thrillers with Reign Of Fire, exclusively found in the #1 bestselling, romantic suspense boxset, Love Under Fire. Watch the trailer exclusively on this page.
Her three-book, time slip, romantic suspense, Lake Lanier Mysteries, hit the stands running with book #1, Beneath The Lake, winner of the 2016 Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence for BEST Romantic Suspense. Watch the trailer on this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lvf0I...
Beyond The Mist, book #2 in her romantic time slip treasure chest, is a stunning tribute to the victims and first responders of the 911 World Trade Center terrorist attack. Here is the trailer link: https://youtu.be/Bj6ySTh_7xI
Between The Shadows brings the saga full circle with an amazing time slip to 1865 and a search for the Confederate gold. Don't miss this trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=voa2q...
Uniquely qualified to write self-help and inspiration, Casi tops the scale with her powerful memoir, Wingless Butterfly: Healing The Broken Child Within, sharing an inspirational message of courage, tenacity, and hope, displaying her unique ability to excel in nonfiction and self-help as well as fiction.
Discover the magic, with Casi McLean books: http://CasiMclean.com
Ms. McLean weaves exceptional romantic mystery, with suspenseful settings and lovable characters you'll devour. You'll see, hear, and feel the magical eeriness of one fateful night. You'll swear her time travel could happen, be mystified by her other worldly images, and feel heat of romantic suspense, but most of all you'll want more.
Find me:
Website: casimclean.com
Twitter: @casimclean
Facebook: Casi McLean
FB Author Page: Casi McLean-Author
Goodreads: Casi McLean
Known for enchanting stories with magical description, McLean entices readers with fascinating hooks to hold them captive in storylines they can't put down. Her romance entwines strong, believable heroines with delicious, hot heroes to tempt the deepest desires, then fans the flames, sweeping readers into their innermost romantic fantasies.
With suspenseful settings and lovable characters you'll devour, you'll see, hear, and feel the magical eeriness of one fateful night. You'll swear time travel could happen, be mystified by other worldly images, and feel the heat of romantic suspense, but most of all you'll want more.
Casi's latest series enters the realm of political thrillers with Reign Of Fire, exclusively found in the #1 bestselling, romantic suspense boxset, Love Under Fire. Watch the trailer exclusively on this page.
Her three-book, time slip, romantic suspense, Lake Lanier Mysteries, hit the stands running with book #1, Beneath The Lake, winner of the 2016 Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence for BEST Romantic Suspense. Watch the trailer on this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lvf0I...
Beyond The Mist, book #2 in her romantic time slip treasure chest, is a stunning tribute to the victims and first responders of the 911 World Trade Center terrorist attack. Here is the trailer link: https://youtu.be/Bj6ySTh_7xI
Between The Shadows brings the saga full circle with an amazing time slip to 1865 and a search for the Confederate gold. Don't miss this trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=voa2q...
Uniquely qualified to write self-help and inspiration, Casi tops the scale with her powerful memoir, Wingless Butterfly: Healing The Broken Child Within, sharing an inspirational message of courage, tenacity, and hope, displaying her unique ability to excel in nonfiction and self-help as well as fiction.
Discover the magic, with Casi McLean books: http://CasiMclean.com
Ms. McLean weaves exceptional romantic mystery, with suspenseful settings and lovable characters you'll devour. You'll see, hear, and feel the magical eeriness of one fateful night. You'll swear her time travel could happen, be mystified by her other worldly images, and feel heat of romantic suspense, but most of all you'll want more.
Find me:
Website: casimclean.com
Twitter: @casimclean
Facebook: Casi McLean
FB Author Page: Casi McLean-Author
Goodreads: Casi McLean
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
February 25, 2022
This is for the audiobook.
Summary –
When Reagan’s destiny comes calling through an eerie mist, will she answer the call, even if it means her own death? Reagan has always been independent and done things her own way. All that is called into question when darkness and mist blanket Spirit Lake. She discovers a young girl walking aimlessly through the fog who pleads for Reagan’s help. The little girl’s father is trapped on a ghostly ship in the middle of the lake. Reagan vows to reunite father and daughter but to do so may cost her everything, including her very life. Is this Reagan’s destiny or is more in store for her, including love?
Narrator’s overall voice –
I found her voice appealing to listen to. She has clear command over her voice and uses intonation to express emotion, action, different characters, and more.
Does the narrator fit the characters?
Yes, Amanda Stribling fits the characters and creates apparent distinctions between the characters.
Narrator’s reading style –
I quite relished Amanda Stribling’s reading style. Partnering with Casi McLean, Amanda Stribling gives the story new life.
Narrator’s impact on reading experience –
Amanda Stribling has an astonishing talent for narration. I closed my eyes on more than one occasion and let her whisk me away. Listening to her narrate is like going to the theater without leaving your home, office, or vehicle.
Narrator’s pacing –
Amanda Stribling’s pacing is brilliant, with just the right amount of tension without going too far.
Audiobook flow –
The flow is seamless. It was a joy to listen to.
What makes this audiobook unique –
I think what makes this exceptional is that Amanda Stribling creates a unique listening experience, all through her voice.
Would I recommend this audiobook –
YES! It’s an affordable, quick listen.
Disclaimer: I read this story as part of the Destiny Series audiobook on Audible US
My Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
Summary –
When Reagan’s destiny comes calling through an eerie mist, will she answer the call, even if it means her own death? Reagan has always been independent and done things her own way. All that is called into question when darkness and mist blanket Spirit Lake. She discovers a young girl walking aimlessly through the fog who pleads for Reagan’s help. The little girl’s father is trapped on a ghostly ship in the middle of the lake. Reagan vows to reunite father and daughter but to do so may cost her everything, including her very life. Is this Reagan’s destiny or is more in store for her, including love?
Narrator’s overall voice –
I found her voice appealing to listen to. She has clear command over her voice and uses intonation to express emotion, action, different characters, and more.
Does the narrator fit the characters?
Yes, Amanda Stribling fits the characters and creates apparent distinctions between the characters.
Narrator’s reading style –
I quite relished Amanda Stribling’s reading style. Partnering with Casi McLean, Amanda Stribling gives the story new life.
Narrator’s impact on reading experience –
Amanda Stribling has an astonishing talent for narration. I closed my eyes on more than one occasion and let her whisk me away. Listening to her narrate is like going to the theater without leaving your home, office, or vehicle.
Narrator’s pacing –
Amanda Stribling’s pacing is brilliant, with just the right amount of tension without going too far.
Audiobook flow –
The flow is seamless. It was a joy to listen to.
What makes this audiobook unique –
I think what makes this exceptional is that Amanda Stribling creates a unique listening experience, all through her voice.
Would I recommend this audiobook –
YES! It’s an affordable, quick listen.
Disclaimer: I read this story as part of the Destiny Series audiobook on Audible US
My Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
November 12, 2015
Casi McLean does it again. While she wrote “Beneath the Lake” first, I read it last. It doesn’t matter as they’re not connected. The Destiny Series will wow you! Every story I read, I wanted more. Then I’d get into the next story and want more again. Every story in this series will enthrall you. When I finished, I…that’s right…wanted more. There are five wonderful novelettes here.
I would love to see Casi write more of these tales. They’re heartwarming, ethereal, paranormal and romantic all rolled into a series that’s well-written, entertaining and charming. I don’t have enough good things to say about this series. All I can say is, if you haven’t read this yet, you should. There’s one story, “The Gift” that is appropriately named. Casi’s words themselves are gifts to readers of all genres.
Casi McLean is on my watch list. Whatever she publishes, I’ll read. She is definitely and up-and-coming tale weaver.
Reviewed by Starr Gardiner, author of “The Other Side: Melinda’s Story,” part of the Other Side series
I would love to see Casi write more of these tales. They’re heartwarming, ethereal, paranormal and romantic all rolled into a series that’s well-written, entertaining and charming. I don’t have enough good things to say about this series. All I can say is, if you haven’t read this yet, you should. There’s one story, “The Gift” that is appropriately named. Casi’s words themselves are gifts to readers of all genres.
Casi McLean is on my watch list. Whatever she publishes, I’ll read. She is definitely and up-and-coming tale weaver.
Reviewed by Starr Gardiner, author of “The Other Side: Melinda’s Story,” part of the Other Side series
June 25, 2021
What I really liked the most about this story is the eeriness conveyed by the prose. I love how it all revolved around a mysterious lake!
"Sycamore and oak branches, interspersed with tall Georgia pines stretched across the cove like fingers pressing the mist into the watery depths. What appeared to be an old wooden mast pierced through the hovering fog toward the hazy moon."
This was an eye unexpected gem of a story that brings two souls together under unusual circumstances. The only thing I didn't really follow was the mentioning of "dark and foreboding spirits" since we don't meet any and the story has a surprise at the end that is pretty far from dark and foreboding. But I loved the characters and the fact that you don't really get a full idea of what was going on. I was ok with that. I believe that there's so much whimsy that you don't always need the black and white to fall for the charms of a story.
"Sycamore and oak branches, interspersed with tall Georgia pines stretched across the cove like fingers pressing the mist into the watery depths. What appeared to be an old wooden mast pierced through the hovering fog toward the hazy moon."
This was an eye unexpected gem of a story that brings two souls together under unusual circumstances. The only thing I didn't really follow was the mentioning of "dark and foreboding spirits" since we don't meet any and the story has a surprise at the end that is pretty far from dark and foreboding. But I loved the characters and the fact that you don't really get a full idea of what was going on. I was ok with that. I believe that there's so much whimsy that you don't always need the black and white to fall for the charms of a story.
December 12, 2019
This is my first read by this author and it's awesome. I love how the author takes you somewhere most fear to tread and gives us a story that will raise the hair on your neck. My only complaint is it's much too short. In this short read the author draws you in immediately and gives you all the feels and it's over. You will find yourself wishing it were longer and sad that it's done. Don't worry there are more books in the series and yes they are standalone reads.
December 19, 2021
( Format : Audiobook )
"Save my daddy."
Short and atmospheric, this is an easy read horror cum romance story which presses all the right 'Eric's buttons but fails to answer some most basic questions (which I cannot rehearse without spoilers, sorry). It is the first of several stories in the Destiny series.
The narration by Amanda Stribling was clear, well modulated and easy to enjoy.
I downloaded this book for free from Audiobook Codes.com.
"Save my daddy."
Short and atmospheric, this is an easy read horror cum romance story which presses all the right 'Eric's buttons but fails to answer some most basic questions (which I cannot rehearse without spoilers, sorry). It is the first of several stories in the Destiny series.
The narration by Amanda Stribling was clear, well modulated and easy to enjoy.
I downloaded this book for free from Audiobook Codes.com.
November 15, 2022
This is a novelette, a quick 45 minute audiobook.
Cute story. Characters are distinct and well developed. Reagan is at her cabin in a sparsely populated area, and hears a child out in the midst. Being a good person, she seeks to help. The story unfolds from there. I like how the story wrapped up. Devine interference explains a lot. The narrator was good, she is a joy to listen to.
I received a copy of this book on StoryOrgin, and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Cute story. Characters are distinct and well developed. Reagan is at her cabin in a sparsely populated area, and hears a child out in the midst. Being a good person, she seeks to help. The story unfolds from there. I like how the story wrapped up. Devine interference explains a lot. The narrator was good, she is a joy to listen to.
I received a copy of this book on StoryOrgin, and am voluntarily leaving my review.
May 23, 2019
A sweet ghost story, but not too sugary, by any means. The writer does a good job in evoking the atmosphere of a foggy night at sea (or in this case, lake) and even the sounds and smells of an old boat. It shouldn't have, but it did remind me of the Scooby Doo on the pirate ship and the spooky fog. The touchstones of our lives, those Saturday morning cartoons.
October 8, 2022
I enjoyed the narration of Amanda Stribling
Reagan is independent and done things her own way. One day Reagan discovers a young girl walking aimlessly through the fog who pleads for help. The little girl’s father is trapped on a ghostly ship in the middle of the lake. Reagan vows to reunite father and daughter but to do so may cost . Is this Reagan’s destiny or is more in store for her.
Reagan is independent and done things her own way. One day Reagan discovers a young girl walking aimlessly through the fog who pleads for help. The little girl’s father is trapped on a ghostly ship in the middle of the lake. Reagan vows to reunite father and daughter but to do so may cost . Is this Reagan’s destiny or is more in store for her.
November 7, 2022
Ahhh. Short and sweet. A little scary. A lot mysterious. Altho, I did have the twist all figured out! Well......only partially........
A super nice listen.
I was gifted an Audible version of this book from the author through Story Origin.
A super nice listen.
I was gifted an Audible version of this book from the author through Story Origin.
January 4, 2019
A romantic ghost tale
This one would be perfect to read on a foggy morning by your favorite lake or pond or even for Halloween.
This one would be perfect to read on a foggy morning by your favorite lake or pond or even for Halloween.
March 9, 2019
Short interesting story
March 21, 2019
Destiny has a vested interest in getting Reagan and Jason to meet. I thoroughly enjoyed this story.
October 29, 2015
With Halloween so close, I bet you are ready for a ghost story. May I suggest Destiny?
Meet Reagan. She is hiding out at remote Spirit Lake in an effort to deal with life altering news. Far away from everything, she finds a young girl named Destiny who implores Reagan to help her to save her dad. That there is a child alone in the middle of nowhere isn’t the oddest part. A ghostly ship, the likes of which haven’t been seen in the area for over a hundred years, appears out of a strange fog and it would seem that Destiny’s dad is somewhere on board. It is up to Reagan to figure out how to save him. Who Destiny might really be is probably the most original twist on a ghost story that I have read in years.
While the story is far too short, it is a great way to spend a few free minutes. Reagan is a fun heroine. Part scrappy gal, part MacGyver, complete with duct tape. Destiny is the beginning of a series and I am certain that I will enjoy the rest as much as this first volume.
Meet Reagan. She is hiding out at remote Spirit Lake in an effort to deal with life altering news. Far away from everything, she finds a young girl named Destiny who implores Reagan to help her to save her dad. That there is a child alone in the middle of nowhere isn’t the oddest part. A ghostly ship, the likes of which haven’t been seen in the area for over a hundred years, appears out of a strange fog and it would seem that Destiny’s dad is somewhere on board. It is up to Reagan to figure out how to save him. Who Destiny might really be is probably the most original twist on a ghost story that I have read in years.
While the story is far too short, it is a great way to spend a few free minutes. Reagan is a fun heroine. Part scrappy gal, part MacGyver, complete with duct tape. Destiny is the beginning of a series and I am certain that I will enjoy the rest as much as this first volume.
Read
April 7, 2016While locked away from the daily hassle and strain of life, Reagan hears a little voice at dusk that scares her. She is not sure of what to think it is. She is in a secluded area where there are not supposed to be any others around. She goes out to look for this little voice and comes across a little girl named Destiny. Destiny is looking for someone that can help save her father. After Reagan takes care of Destiny and makes sure that she is safe and sound, she goes out in search of Destiny's father, Jason. He has fallen through the boards on an old ship and cannot get out from where he has landed. The boat is haunted by a ghostly force and it is trying to keep Jason, and with her attempt to save him, Reagan as well. All around good story. Surprise, sweet ending. - I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 11, 2016
Mrs. McLean created suspensfule settings with loveable characters. The romantic aspects combined with the supernatural twists kept me hooked and I was left wanting more.
Fans of romantic suspense and the paranormal will love her.
Fans of romantic suspense and the paranormal will love her.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews