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Shadows and Light
Reap the Shadow, Slay the Light
I don't know what I am, but I'm not human...and neither are the creatures that killed my mom. Running will only carry me so far because there's a darkness within me, ready to destroy me, and a burning light, begging for escape. It's the light that screams to my pursuers and works them into a frenzy. Though the darkness might kill me, releasing the light might kill us all...
WarWolf: Half breed
Ema fights to suppress her werewolf emotions and deny her warlock powers. It isn't easy being a half-breed, but she is determined to slide through life unnoticed by either group. When the warlock leaders team up with humans to force paranormal registration, Ema believes she must choose between her two unwanted worlds. An unexpected companion shows her not all emotions are bad, and power has its benefits.
Moved
"Werewolves are real but the legends are wrong..."
It's the secret Gillian's father has tried to keep from her and the reason he's so overprotective. But, he goes too far when he exiles Gillian to a house in the middle of nowhere. Her new landlord, Racer, is more like a cute jailer who has strict orders to keep her safely trapped.
Battle lines between independence and obligation are drawn as Gillian decides just how far she's willing to go to win back her freedom. And Racer needs to decide what he's willing to endure to keep her close.
I don't know what I am, but I'm not human...and neither are the creatures that killed my mom. Running will only carry me so far because there's a darkness within me, ready to destroy me, and a burning light, begging for escape. It's the light that screams to my pursuers and works them into a frenzy. Though the darkness might kill me, releasing the light might kill us all...
WarWolf: Half breed
Ema fights to suppress her werewolf emotions and deny her warlock powers. It isn't easy being a half-breed, but she is determined to slide through life unnoticed by either group. When the warlock leaders team up with humans to force paranormal registration, Ema believes she must choose between her two unwanted worlds. An unexpected companion shows her not all emotions are bad, and power has its benefits.
Moved
"Werewolves are real but the legends are wrong..."
It's the secret Gillian's father has tried to keep from her and the reason he's so overprotective. But, he goes too far when he exiles Gillian to a house in the middle of nowhere. Her new landlord, Racer, is more like a cute jailer who has strict orders to keep her safely trapped.
Battle lines between independence and obligation are drawn as Gillian decides just how far she's willing to go to win back her freedom. And Racer needs to decide what he's willing to endure to keep her close.
230 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 8, 2014
13 people are currently reading
658 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Haag
47 books1,189 followersI love to write! Sharing the worlds I've created is beyond amazing . Want to read a book for free? Check out my website at:
http://melissahaag.com/free-ebook/
Connect with me on:
https://twitter.com/MelissaHaag
https://www.facebook.com/author.MelissaHaag
I also write adult books under the pen name M.J. Haag. Happy reading!
http://melissahaag.com/free-ebook/
Connect with me on:
https://twitter.com/MelissaHaag
https://www.facebook.com/author.MelissaHaag
I also write adult books under the pen name M.J. Haag. Happy reading!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
April 23, 2014
This really isn't my own rating. I wanted to add something to share a little side story. My dad recently retired. With all of the time he has now, he offered to read my book, provide corrections, and give general feedback...I can't recall my dad ever reading a book. Wait, not true. When I was about twelve, I remember him reading one. Anyway, I wasn't about to say no.
Here's what he texted me: "Done with the book. Liked story 3 the best. I am very impressed with my daughter. Love you." Go ahead, "aw" the moment with me. :D
I had to add this because when you read the novellas, you'll notice family connections in all three. So this is my shout out to family bonds and love. Happy reading!
Here's what he texted me: "Done with the book. Liked story 3 the best. I am very impressed with my daughter. Love you." Go ahead, "aw" the moment with me. :D
I had to add this because when you read the novellas, you'll notice family connections in all three. So this is my shout out to family bonds and love. Happy reading!
April 18, 2015
I would like to avoid spoilers so this will be brief. Each of the three stories contained within Shadows and Light deal with the potential for good and evil in the world, as well as in individuals. We see three strong female leads, something which Melissa Haag does quite well, well enough to be known for her strength in female characters.
The first piece, Reap the Shadow, Slay the Light, brings us into a point of violent upheaval in Phoebe's life, she must make some quick choices that will change her life forever. She gets help she desperately needs in an unlikely friend, and she learns about her true self. I enjoyed the relationship that developed between the male and female leads here, and the fact that they each rose to the occasion once called for.
Next we have War Wolf: Half Breed, which is a confusing title before you read it because you think it's going to be about wolves in conflict and it isn't necessarily. Rather, it's about another young woman, Ema for short, who is incredibly gifted, but lonely. She has to accept who she truly is, and go with her heart, all the while accompanied by the lovable dork and true friend, Declan. This was my least favorite story, really the only reason I have is that I felt like it would have been better as an entire book! There is so much we don't know about the history and future of the supers and the registration, and about the wolves and warlocks disdain for one another.
The third and final story, Moved, was a bit different. It starts off with all but the main character Gillian knowing the who's who and what's what, though she knows a bit more than her father and his associate Larry think thanks to a letter from her mother. This one builds slowly to a beautiful ending, and though the first story is my favorite, this one is special to me too, as it most reminds me of the awesomeness that is MH's Judgment of the Six series.
Overall, this ranks at a 4.5 star rating, and even if you normally don't enjoy short stories, these are a great way to get into the format!
The first piece, Reap the Shadow, Slay the Light, brings us into a point of violent upheaval in Phoebe's life, she must make some quick choices that will change her life forever. She gets help she desperately needs in an unlikely friend, and she learns about her true self. I enjoyed the relationship that developed between the male and female leads here, and the fact that they each rose to the occasion once called for.
Next we have War Wolf: Half Breed, which is a confusing title before you read it because you think it's going to be about wolves in conflict and it isn't necessarily. Rather, it's about another young woman, Ema for short, who is incredibly gifted, but lonely. She has to accept who she truly is, and go with her heart, all the while accompanied by the lovable dork and true friend, Declan. This was my least favorite story, really the only reason I have is that I felt like it would have been better as an entire book! There is so much we don't know about the history and future of the supers and the registration, and about the wolves and warlocks disdain for one another.
The third and final story, Moved, was a bit different. It starts off with all but the main character Gillian knowing the who's who and what's what, though she knows a bit more than her father and his associate Larry think thanks to a letter from her mother. This one builds slowly to a beautiful ending, and though the first story is my favorite, this one is special to me too, as it most reminds me of the awesomeness that is MH's Judgment of the Six series.
Overall, this ranks at a 4.5 star rating, and even if you normally don't enjoy short stories, these are a great way to get into the format!
July 28, 2014
I haven’t read many books made up of individual, unconnected novellas; only novellas that are part of a series, so this was new but really exciting. I found it was actually really easy to get into the different stories even being really short which my one worry was. Saying this though, they were each about 80 pages so still a decent length (but not long enough).
Now, to be honest I wasn’t quite sure how to review this book, whether to do mini-reviews for each novella or a general one but since the 3 synopsis above are better descriptions than I could have done without spoiling too much I won’t go into that kind of detail.
The characters were all well-developed so (and I know I will keep referring back to this) even though they’re not described to the extent they would in a full length novel, you had a good feel for them and could understand where they were taking the story. Melissa also managed to convey the story brilliantly well, with no sudden information drops that you’d expect from a novella with no series backing it up. This meant it kept an even pace, and this worked for all 3 novellas.
I have to say the concepts were equally as good, and not the classic vampire/werewolf/angel stories which made it interesting. I have nothing against those stereotypical paranormal stories and if you’ve seen any of my reviews you’ll know I love them, but everyone wants that unique story which will stand out from the rest and stay in your head. Melissa did this effortlessly, with not just 1 but 3. If they were full length novels I’d still read them in a heartbeat, but it was nicely done this way I’ll admit (I almost forgot they were novellas and when the last one abruptly finished it took me a while to get over it!).
Posted on: http://enchantedbyya.blogspot.co.uk/
Now, to be honest I wasn’t quite sure how to review this book, whether to do mini-reviews for each novella or a general one but since the 3 synopsis above are better descriptions than I could have done without spoiling too much I won’t go into that kind of detail.
The characters were all well-developed so (and I know I will keep referring back to this) even though they’re not described to the extent they would in a full length novel, you had a good feel for them and could understand where they were taking the story. Melissa also managed to convey the story brilliantly well, with no sudden information drops that you’d expect from a novella with no series backing it up. This meant it kept an even pace, and this worked for all 3 novellas.
I have to say the concepts were equally as good, and not the classic vampire/werewolf/angel stories which made it interesting. I have nothing against those stereotypical paranormal stories and if you’ve seen any of my reviews you’ll know I love them, but everyone wants that unique story which will stand out from the rest and stay in your head. Melissa did this effortlessly, with not just 1 but 3. If they were full length novels I’d still read them in a heartbeat, but it was nicely done this way I’ll admit (I almost forgot they were novellas and when the last one abruptly finished it took me a while to get over it!).
Posted on: http://enchantedbyya.blogspot.co.uk/
March 3, 2018
3 short stories, 3 different worlds but oh so good. Funny but serious too. I love that even though Melissa writes Werewolves she always mange to give give us a different version of them and in different worlds
Reap The Shadows, Slay The Light: A bit dark but it had it's funny moments. I loved the support Willam gave to Phoebe. She endured a lot at such a jong age but mange to rise.
WarWolf Half Breed: I laughed out loud a few times. Declan Is defiantly one that will grow on you. I could relate Ema (Evanal May Amberday) being some what of a loner.
Move: Gillian antics had me Loling. Poor Racer. I really wanted more of their story though. I liked the ended but it still doesn't feel finish.
Reap The Shadows, Slay The Light: A bit dark but it had it's funny moments. I loved the support Willam gave to Phoebe. She endured a lot at such a jong age but mange to rise.
WarWolf Half Breed: I laughed out loud a few times. Declan Is defiantly one that will grow on you. I could relate Ema (Evanal May Amberday) being some what of a loner.
Move: Gillian antics had me Loling. Poor Racer. I really wanted more of their story though. I liked the ended but it still doesn't feel finish.
November 11, 2019
What. In. The. World.
I love many of Melissa’s books. But this one, I don’t even know what to say. I’ll admit, I only read the first story. Because it was the most convoluted, disjointed, nonsensical thing I’ve read as an adult. Light and darkness? Ending in shades of gray? Just...what? If you’re looking for a short story with mythical creatures and some love, technically this fits the bill. But that’s all that I can say in its favor.
I love many of Melissa’s books. But this one, I don’t even know what to say. I’ll admit, I only read the first story. Because it was the most convoluted, disjointed, nonsensical thing I’ve read as an adult. Light and darkness? Ending in shades of gray? Just...what? If you’re looking for a short story with mythical creatures and some love, technically this fits the bill. But that’s all that I can say in its favor.
December 7, 2018
So entertaining! From start to end
Loved them all! Short stories bundle together. My favorite one was shadows and lights! But all the 3 were fun to read!
Loved them all! Short stories bundle together. My favorite one was shadows and lights! But all the 3 were fun to read!
September 11, 2014
* Reviewer for Paranormal Romance Authors that Rock*
**4 Fangs**
The three novellas in this book, are amazing. i haven't read many paranormal books, even so, you could get a feel for the caracters & drawn into the story.
1) 'Reap the Shadow, Slay the light was full of emotion. The story is about Phoebe & William. Phoebe saw many tragities throughout her life, the loss of her closest friend & her mother (Williams sister & mother) & the loss of her father & subsequent step fathers till her latest step brother brutally murdered her mother. Willam promised Phoebe that whenever she needed his help or protection, he would help, no question. The male characters are the shadows & the females the light. The shadows need the light as the light needs the shadows to keep peace & balance, but only with consent. Over the years tho, the shadows have overtaken the balance & seek the light with total aggression. Willam helps Phoebe to understand who she is, who they are & the power together they can control.
2) WarWolf (Half-breed) is about Ema (Evanal May Amberday) & Declan. Ema - the daughter of a Warlock & Werewolf, has become somewhat of a recluse till her step father insists on her getting out! She yeilds only to go to get a pizza when she meets Declan- a werewolf, and he follows her home. Turns out that Declans father knew Emas mother. When the Warlock leaders agree with the Humans to start a register for the 'Supers' (Warlocks, Werewolves, Witches) Ema & Declan run to the Westcoast to register but Ema is unwilling to do so as she doesn't want to be forced to choose one super over the other. The whole time they travel they are shadowed by patrols that are making sure the supers are pursuaded to register. As much as Ema has reservations about Declan at the beginning, they stand by each other till their feelings for each other are realised.
3) Moved - Gillian lost her mother when she was young but her mother left her a letter that explained who she was. She was home from college visiting her dad & Larry when her dad noticed someone outside their home, when asked who it was, everything was thrown in the air and Gillian was moved away for her protection. Racer was now to be her protector for nine months or until her stalkers was found. In the middle of no-where & effectively under house arrest, Gillian isn't the easiest at staying under control. Racer is pushed to his limits by her but then their emotions come into the picture. Gillian eases up on him & him to her, then her stalker finds her. Once Racer has him restrained & her dad & Larry see him for themselves, do they realize, that they are in love with each other & Gillian wants to stay with Racer.
All three stories are definately stories i would love in full length books, and would appeal mostly to the YA group but its a great read for everyone!
**4 Fangs**
The three novellas in this book, are amazing. i haven't read many paranormal books, even so, you could get a feel for the caracters & drawn into the story.
1) 'Reap the Shadow, Slay the light was full of emotion. The story is about Phoebe & William. Phoebe saw many tragities throughout her life, the loss of her closest friend & her mother (Williams sister & mother) & the loss of her father & subsequent step fathers till her latest step brother brutally murdered her mother. Willam promised Phoebe that whenever she needed his help or protection, he would help, no question. The male characters are the shadows & the females the light. The shadows need the light as the light needs the shadows to keep peace & balance, but only with consent. Over the years tho, the shadows have overtaken the balance & seek the light with total aggression. Willam helps Phoebe to understand who she is, who they are & the power together they can control.
2) WarWolf (Half-breed) is about Ema (Evanal May Amberday) & Declan. Ema - the daughter of a Warlock & Werewolf, has become somewhat of a recluse till her step father insists on her getting out! She yeilds only to go to get a pizza when she meets Declan- a werewolf, and he follows her home. Turns out that Declans father knew Emas mother. When the Warlock leaders agree with the Humans to start a register for the 'Supers' (Warlocks, Werewolves, Witches) Ema & Declan run to the Westcoast to register but Ema is unwilling to do so as she doesn't want to be forced to choose one super over the other. The whole time they travel they are shadowed by patrols that are making sure the supers are pursuaded to register. As much as Ema has reservations about Declan at the beginning, they stand by each other till their feelings for each other are realised.
3) Moved - Gillian lost her mother when she was young but her mother left her a letter that explained who she was. She was home from college visiting her dad & Larry when her dad noticed someone outside their home, when asked who it was, everything was thrown in the air and Gillian was moved away for her protection. Racer was now to be her protector for nine months or until her stalkers was found. In the middle of no-where & effectively under house arrest, Gillian isn't the easiest at staying under control. Racer is pushed to his limits by her but then their emotions come into the picture. Gillian eases up on him & him to her, then her stalker finds her. Once Racer has him restrained & her dad & Larry see him for themselves, do they realize, that they are in love with each other & Gillian wants to stay with Racer.
All three stories are definately stories i would love in full length books, and would appeal mostly to the YA group but its a great read for everyone!
May 15, 2014
Alright! Let's do this!!
So I was lucky enough to be a beta/arc/given this in exchange for an honest review, sort of thing and I am always honest. I just happened to love every one of these novellas.
My review is going to be different from my normal ones because this was three novellas in one book, cool? Cool.
So overall, I loved the mix of two humorous stories and one more serious, darker story. I thought while they stories were shorter they were complete, would have I liked to have seen more of each? Well yeah I love Melissa's writing of course I did. i think that if she never decided to dip farther into each one of these worlds she totally could. I think though for short, easy, fun reads these were perfect.
Now a little more in depth about each one!
Reap the Shadow, Slay the Light
I really enjoyed the concept of this story, we start off very in the dark with Phoebe, which I think works really well for the story. I enjoyed that we got this very much darker story than the other two were. This was intense, it was get your heart-racing, and what will happen next sort of thing. There was mystery, a bit of gore, but over all just awesome-ness. I enjoyed the relationship between Will and Phoebe. I LOVED Will, so much he was not going to let Phoebe be a hermit and waste away. The entire novella was very creative and interesting. I had never really seen anything like this and I loved it. So very much! Very intriguing.
WarWolf: Half breed
Don't let the name fool you, it is not about a werewolf going to War.....yeah I didn't totally think that when i first saw the title or anything.... hahaha...anyways this was a fun little tale about accepting who you are, even if you are a mix amounts of races. I really enjoyed the different-ness of Declan, he was funny, and sweet, but very emotional. At first I felt a little awkward with him but he really grew on me and I did end up falling for him, much like Ema. She is also a very interesting character who tries to control exactly how she feels, but she indulges both of her sides, Warlock, and Werewolf.
Moved
This. WAS. FANTASTIC. Seriously. I adored this novella. It was hilarious, it was sexy, it was just totally utterly amazing. It had to be my favorite out of these three, and I just loved, loved, loved Racer, and Gillian's chemistry. I loved Gillian's pranks and attics, omgod so funny i was laughing my ass off through out most of the entire book. I enjoyed the splash of action that we get ^.^ cause yay! Love that, and I enjoyed the sort of "we are in the dark" but not quite that much vibe it had. I really just loved this novella, and I can't wait to re-read it again, and again, and again.
So I was lucky enough to be a beta/arc/given this in exchange for an honest review, sort of thing and I am always honest. I just happened to love every one of these novellas.
My review is going to be different from my normal ones because this was three novellas in one book, cool? Cool.
So overall, I loved the mix of two humorous stories and one more serious, darker story. I thought while they stories were shorter they were complete, would have I liked to have seen more of each? Well yeah I love Melissa's writing of course I did. i think that if she never decided to dip farther into each one of these worlds she totally could. I think though for short, easy, fun reads these were perfect.
Now a little more in depth about each one!
Reap the Shadow, Slay the Light
I really enjoyed the concept of this story, we start off very in the dark with Phoebe, which I think works really well for the story. I enjoyed that we got this very much darker story than the other two were. This was intense, it was get your heart-racing, and what will happen next sort of thing. There was mystery, a bit of gore, but over all just awesome-ness. I enjoyed the relationship between Will and Phoebe. I LOVED Will, so much he was not going to let Phoebe be a hermit and waste away. The entire novella was very creative and interesting. I had never really seen anything like this and I loved it. So very much! Very intriguing.
WarWolf: Half breed
Don't let the name fool you, it is not about a werewolf going to War.....yeah I didn't totally think that when i first saw the title or anything.... hahaha...anyways this was a fun little tale about accepting who you are, even if you are a mix amounts of races. I really enjoyed the different-ness of Declan, he was funny, and sweet, but very emotional. At first I felt a little awkward with him but he really grew on me and I did end up falling for him, much like Ema. She is also a very interesting character who tries to control exactly how she feels, but she indulges both of her sides, Warlock, and Werewolf.
Moved
This. WAS. FANTASTIC. Seriously. I adored this novella. It was hilarious, it was sexy, it was just totally utterly amazing. It had to be my favorite out of these three, and I just loved, loved, loved Racer, and Gillian's chemistry. I loved Gillian's pranks and attics, omgod so funny i was laughing my ass off through out most of the entire book. I enjoyed the splash of action that we get ^.^ cause yay! Love that, and I enjoyed the sort of "we are in the dark" but not quite that much vibe it had. I really just loved this novella, and I can't wait to re-read it again, and again, and again.
December 23, 2016
Yes yes yes
These short stories are sweet, beautiful, and quietly thought provoking, not necessarily in that order. ;) Definitely a must read.
These short stories are sweet, beautiful, and quietly thought provoking, not necessarily in that order. ;) Definitely a must read.
June 9, 2014
I thoroughly enjoyed all three of these stories. While I'm admittedly a sucker for the werewolves (WEREWOLVES!), I got a kick out of the whole set.
Reap the Shadow, Slay the Light: A different take on the eternal battle between good and evil and one I found intriguing. Phoebe's panic and pain over what she experienced is compounded by all the things she doesn't know about herself and what she is. Loved Willam's restraint and his desire to be there for her. *thumbs up*
WarWolf: Half Breed: A sweet, little story about a half-breed who is determined to deny both supernatural sides of herself and the werewolf who shows her that being her isn't bad. I kinda loved Declan. From his first slightly loopy appearance to that moment when he stands beside Ema no matter what. Which isn't to say Ema wasn't fun (watching the stranglehold she kept on her emotions crumble under Declan's relentless presence was a hoot), but Declan made the story for me. I like werewolves, okay! I LIKE WEREWOLVES!
Moved: Not going to lie, Racer and Gillian had a hilariously sexy thing going on. You know, as she attempted to drive him batshit crazy with her antics. Poor Racer had no idea what he was getting into when he took her on as a new tenant. Again, I LIKE WEREWOLVES!
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Reap the Shadow, Slay the Light: A different take on the eternal battle between good and evil and one I found intriguing. Phoebe's panic and pain over what she experienced is compounded by all the things she doesn't know about herself and what she is. Loved Willam's restraint and his desire to be there for her. *thumbs up*
WarWolf: Half Breed: A sweet, little story about a half-breed who is determined to deny both supernatural sides of herself and the werewolf who shows her that being her isn't bad. I kinda loved Declan. From his first slightly loopy appearance to that moment when he stands beside Ema no matter what. Which isn't to say Ema wasn't fun (watching the stranglehold she kept on her emotions crumble under Declan's relentless presence was a hoot), but Declan made the story for me. I like werewolves, okay! I LIKE WEREWOLVES!
Moved: Not going to lie, Racer and Gillian had a hilariously sexy thing going on. You know, as she attempted to drive him batshit crazy with her antics. Poor Racer had no idea what he was getting into when he took her on as a new tenant. Again, I LIKE WEREWOLVES!
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
May 23, 2014
I actually really enjoy novellas and love Melissa Haag so this was a no brainer for me. I was especially intrigued when I saw that she was mixing it up with dark and funny stories. I do know that if I want my paranormal fix, Melissa is definitely the person I go to. Her "Judgment of the Six" series is one of my favorite paranormal series out there.
This series was fun and serious at the same time. I found myself eagerly waiting to find out what was going to happen next. Each character was developed beautifully and it was cool to get to know them even if for a short story.
With paranormal it is always an interesting find to me. You've got your stereotypical spins on vampires, werewolves, etc. and then there are these authors that can create an entirely different storyline for a supernatural creature we've been reading about for years. That is what Melissa does. She creates these worlds and scenarios that just absolutely entertain.
I know I didn't go much into the actual stories themselves because, to be honest, they are novellas and I will end up giving it away. The synopsis above is dead on and better than anything I could have done. The only thing I can add is for those of us who like a little romance with our paranormal, this delivered (but its NOT steamy so don't expect that!).
This series was fun and serious at the same time. I found myself eagerly waiting to find out what was going to happen next. Each character was developed beautifully and it was cool to get to know them even if for a short story.
With paranormal it is always an interesting find to me. You've got your stereotypical spins on vampires, werewolves, etc. and then there are these authors that can create an entirely different storyline for a supernatural creature we've been reading about for years. That is what Melissa does. She creates these worlds and scenarios that just absolutely entertain.
I know I didn't go much into the actual stories themselves because, to be honest, they are novellas and I will end up giving it away. The synopsis above is dead on and better than anything I could have done. The only thing I can add is for those of us who like a little romance with our paranormal, this delivered (but its NOT steamy so don't expect that!).
June 12, 2014
Three short stories, each one beautifully told. Honestly, I could have done with the latter two being full on novels, but I'll take what I can get.
Reap the Shadows, Slay the Light
Of the three, this was probably the darkest story. It still has a good ending, though, so don't despair too much. The author has a captivating style that drew me in, which wasn't so good in this case, since it's a bit depressing. But still, kudos for the imagery. Or not. You know what I mean...
WarWolf: Half Breed
This one was a definite change in tone from the previous novella. I did laugh out loud a few times, and I loved the creative use of magic. The author manages to cram in a lot of information in this novella, since she has to explain what the current state of the world is. I liked the characters and, again, the magic was awesome!
Moved
Gillian. I wanted to dislike her, since she comes off a bit too stubborn at first, but she's really a good kid and loves her dad. Can't fault her for that. Not too much, anyway. This novella moves a bit slower than WarWolf, and tone-wise might be right in the middle of the two preceding stories (not quite so happy, not quite so dark). Still, I loved the build up and the ending was nice and swoon-worthy. Last thing I want to say about this: Racer!
Reap the Shadows, Slay the Light
Of the three, this was probably the darkest story. It still has a good ending, though, so don't despair too much. The author has a captivating style that drew me in, which wasn't so good in this case, since it's a bit depressing. But still, kudos for the imagery. Or not. You know what I mean...
WarWolf: Half Breed
This one was a definite change in tone from the previous novella. I did laugh out loud a few times, and I loved the creative use of magic. The author manages to cram in a lot of information in this novella, since she has to explain what the current state of the world is. I liked the characters and, again, the magic was awesome!
Moved
Gillian. I wanted to dislike her, since she comes off a bit too stubborn at first, but she's really a good kid and loves her dad. Can't fault her for that. Not too much, anyway. This novella moves a bit slower than WarWolf, and tone-wise might be right in the middle of the two preceding stories (not quite so happy, not quite so dark). Still, I loved the build up and the ending was nice and swoon-worthy. Last thing I want to say about this: Racer!
July 16, 2014
The first is interested and dramatic and the only darker story. Towards the end at the climax, I found myself having to slow down to get what was going on darkness and light and who's getting what when. Still, a good read.
The second was by far my favorite. The male lead was wonderful and I couldn't help smile throughout most of the story. Really delightful. Ema's transformation was a bit abrupt, but for a short story, it got the job done.
The third had me snorting with laughter. The female lead was brilliant. She took cruel and unusual punishment and made it an art form!
Haag does a brilliant job telling the stories through the female leads while giving just enough hints to know what is going on for our leading guys. Her subtle touch shows without telling making the journey one of discovery with the characters instead of the dissatisfying info dump seen in a lot of indie authors. Looking forward to reading more!
The second was by far my favorite. The male lead was wonderful and I couldn't help smile throughout most of the story. Really delightful. Ema's transformation was a bit abrupt, but for a short story, it got the job done.
The third had me snorting with laughter. The female lead was brilliant. She took cruel and unusual punishment and made it an art form!
Haag does a brilliant job telling the stories through the female leads while giving just enough hints to know what is going on for our leading guys. Her subtle touch shows without telling making the journey one of discovery with the characters instead of the dissatisfying info dump seen in a lot of indie authors. Looking forward to reading more!
June 8, 2021
The 3 stories are very entertaining. "Reap the Shadow, Slay the Light" is the first story, is sort of on the dark/heavy side (my least favorite of the 3 stories in this book, & it's not a bad story, just not my preference). "WarWolf: Half breed", the second story is entertaining with werewolves & witches. And then there's "Moved", the third story, humans & werewolves, is totally hilarious, the female character, Gillian, is so perfect, I love leading lady type characters like this!! I loved this story, I've read the 3rd story, "Moved", 4 times now. I would love to see an expanded version of "Moved", or even a male's (Racer's) point of view since he's the strong silent type werewolf similar to another werewolf character (Clay) from Melissa Haag's series "Judgement of the Six" & would love to know some of his thoughts thru the story. Definitely reccomend this book.
September 23, 2015
An eclectic mix. All 3 different & good
* Shadow & Light
A sweet modern day creation story/morality tale. I kept thinking: this doesn't make sense. Everything created continues to exist only if it can find a way to balance nature. And that was the point.
* War Wolf
A very different fast-paced romantic comedy of a warlock/werewolf who tries to avoid being herself & the emotional & sincere werewolf who attaches himself to her.
* Moved
A cute teenaged story of mistaken identities & werewolf love. A YA classic "life isn't fair, no one treats me like a grown up ... Hello six-pac abs."
* Shadow & Light
A sweet modern day creation story/morality tale. I kept thinking: this doesn't make sense. Everything created continues to exist only if it can find a way to balance nature. And that was the point.
* War Wolf
A very different fast-paced romantic comedy of a warlock/werewolf who tries to avoid being herself & the emotional & sincere werewolf who attaches himself to her.
* Moved
A cute teenaged story of mistaken identities & werewolf love. A YA classic "life isn't fair, no one treats me like a grown up ... Hello six-pac abs."
December 28, 2015
Solid storylines overall. I didn't care for the first story with the shadow and light. It was ok, but it had a lot of boring and slow paced scenes. I did feel the two had true feelings for each other. The second was my favorite and the reason I gave the collection of novellas a 4 vs 3 star rating. I think Ema's ancestry is a really cool idea with lots of possibilities. The third was better than the first, but again very slow. The infamous letter content in this one took too long to be revealed for a short story. I think the timing was more appropriate for a novel. I can't understand how Racer determined he "loved" Gillian after he basically ignored her the whole time, but ok.
September 17, 2014
I haven't really read a book before that had multiple novellas in it but honestly for this book it worked. I really enjoyed and liked all three novellas. They were all great and they connected to each other because of the family ties each character had with their families. I honestly can't say which of the three novellas was my favorite because I really really liked them all. I would recommend this book to everyone. It's just a great set of novellas and they all just stuck you into the story. Overall I give this book 4 out of 5 stars.
April 17, 2015
Okay, I loved the book. What can I say about the book, story one for me, I didn't get at first, but I kept reading, I was able to understand. Story two, I was sad to see ended, I wanted more, but I'll live. Haha. Story three, I want more, no wait, I need more. I really hope, Melissa will think about making another book about these stories, of life after. I really want to know what happens.
All in all it was a great quick read, enjoyable. She gets a five star from me!!
All in all it was a great quick read, enjoyable. She gets a five star from me!!
April 20, 2015
Overall, each story was absolutely unique and has such potential for so much more. But each one is still perfect on its own. Ms. Haag has a very vivid imagination and she doesn’t allow the status quo determine where she takes her stories. If she wrote a vampire story, I might even be tempted to read that too. Maybe. Depends. We’d have to see about...(https://textuallove.wordpress.com/201...) Read the rest of the review behind the link.
September 4, 2015
This is nice collection of three novellas. If you enjoy clean Paranormal Romance that still manages to have a little sizzle, you should check this one out. All three stories were fun reads. Two have werewolves and the third has... Well I'm not a hundred per cent sure what they were. Maybe something sort of like angels and demons. But they were definitely cool. Reap The Shadow, Slay The Light was my favorite.
September 8, 2015
Always rate hers 5 stars
Whether it is a long story, a series, or a short novella, Melissa always out does herself. She is an exceptional writer and it makes me happy that I can read all these wonderful pieces that come from that brilliant brain of hers. Each short story was so good. I always loved her humor and it definitely comes out in these. William, Declan, and Racer seem dreamy and make it hard to chose a book boyfriend I like more!
Whether it is a long story, a series, or a short novella, Melissa always out does herself. She is an exceptional writer and it makes me happy that I can read all these wonderful pieces that come from that brilliant brain of hers. Each short story was so good. I always loved her humor and it definitely comes out in these. William, Declan, and Racer seem dreamy and make it hard to chose a book boyfriend I like more!
May 19, 2015
The first story was my favorite by far. The second one was good and the third one (which from the synopsis was the reason for reading this) was my least favorite. The main character was the biggest spoiled brat and very disrespectful. I can't believe the ending happened because that guy took a lot of abuse from her.
January 24, 2015
An awesome book of novellas
I found the short stories exciting, full of adventure and interesting. It kept me turning pages until the end which left me wanting more. I loved the characters.
I found the short stories exciting, full of adventure and interesting. It kept me turning pages until the end which left me wanting more. I loved the characters.
April 16, 2015
Three great storys, every single one made me want to read more. Three tough heroines each of them finding her own way to deal with the difficulties of her life. And three handsome men to fall in love with.
I loved reading this book although the stories were way to short ;)
I loved reading this book although the stories were way to short ;)
November 13, 2015
3 for 1
Three amazing short stories all under one title. Melissa Haag once again created worlds that I wanted to lose myself in. The only thing I would ask would be for more of each!!
Three amazing short stories all under one title. Melissa Haag once again created worlds that I wanted to lose myself in. The only thing I would ask would be for more of each!!
June 21, 2015
Three stories in one book and it leaves you wanting more. I really enjoyed the unique stories that are included in the Shadows and Light. They definitely had a new take on paranormal/super natural activity in a fun and exciting way. I couldn't put it down.
December 31, 2015
I don't usually read novellas and I don't like werewolf stories. Usually. But I LOVED this book. The characters were entertaining and drew me in. I really, really enjoyed this. Especially the second story because the characters were so dry and amusing. Definitely recommend!
Want to read
June 9, 2014Free 06-09-14 (3 PNR Novellas in 217 p. anthology)
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00K9AMKXG?i...
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00K9AMKXG?i...
June 15, 2014
3 Stars. Three short stories about different relationships between the darkness and light inside of people.
May 18, 2015
I absolutely LOVE Melissa's writing and I cant believe I have never taken the time to read these novella's before now. They cement the fact that Melissa is an amazing storyteller :-) 4 out of 5
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