Between the Waters

Symphony of Light #2

by Renea Mason

Magic is no match for love…

Trapped somewhere between life and death, demigod Cyril has lost the ability to communicate with his love. But not before giving her valuable lessons in magic, as well as his blessing to move on without him.

Coming to terms with Cyril’s absence isn’t easy, but Linden is doing her best to honor his wishes. Until she receives an unusual request from Moreaux, an estranged member of Cyril’s family. Bizarre things are going on with Mary, the former housekeeper, and Linden can’t let them go. But when her investigation leads to a mistake that nearly costs her life, Cyril’s best friend, Overton, steps in and violates a promise he made centuries before to bring her back from the dead.

Gratitude turns to comfort, comfort turns to desire, and desire leads Linden to a shocking revelation. In her charge to uncover the truth behind Mary and Moreaux, she discovers a spell she can’t undo without leaving wounds on her heart, wounds she knows will never heal…

Genres: Paranormal, Paranormal Romance, Romance, Fantasy, Audiobook, Thriller, Magic

197 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 15, 2014

About the author

"Sexy, fun and so creative it makes my head spin! I'd read the damn phone book if Renea Mason wrote it."
-NYT and USA TODAY Bestselling author ROBYN PETERMAN

Multi-award-winning and bestselling author Renea Mason writes paranormal and contemporary erotic romance that challenges the definition of conventional love. As the author of the 2016 Audie award-winning Curing Doctor Vincent, Renea prides herself on bringing readers unique storylines and memorable characters in her tales of love, lust and mystery.

When she isn't putting her fingers on the keyboard crafting sensual stories filled with intelligent, larger-than-life lovers, she spends time in the Laurel Mountains of Western Pennsylvania with her beyond-supportive husband, two wonderful sons and two loving but needy cats.

AWARDS & RECOGNITION

Curing Doctor Vincent

WINNER - 2016 Audie Award (Audio Publisher's Association)

3rd Place - 2016 Romance Writers of America New England Chapter - Erotic Romance

1st Place - Ménage Romances Readers Favorite Award - Erotica 2016

1st Place - Book with Most Original Plot - Shameless Book Club Awards 2015

1st Place - Best Ménage and more... - The Romance Reviews Readers Choice Awards 2015

2nd Place - Best Contemporary Erotic Romance -The Paranormal Romance Guild Reviewers Choice Award 2015

Symphony of Light and Winter

2nd Place - Best New Paranormal Series of 2013 - Paranormal Cravings' Battle of the Books 2013

3rd Place - Best New Paranormal Romance of 2013 - The Paranormal Romance Guild's Reviewers Choice Awards 2013

2nd Place - Erotica/Romantica - Write Touch Contest - Wisconsin Romance Writers - Romance Writers of America Chapter

Finalist - Paranormal - The Passionate Plume Contest - Passionate Ink - National Romance Writers of America Chapter

Finalist - Best First Book - National Excellence in Romance Fiction Award - First Coast Romance Writers- Romance Writers of America Chapter

Finalist - Paranormal Romance - Aspen Gold Contest -Heart of Denver Romance Writers of America - Romance Writers of America Chapter

She loves connecting with readers. You can find her on all major social media platforms.

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Reviews

[Sheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am giving an honest review of this book for author Renea Mason. This is book 2 of the Symphony of Light book series. This books starts where book 1 ends and I am looking forward to book 3 when it comes out.

Linden is struggling with the death of Cyril until she gets an unexpected guest that comes to her. Because she has feeling for 2 men her life gets complicated again but in her heart she knows she will always love Cyril no matter where he is.

This second book is just as great as the first and it gives the reader more details of Cyril's life and why he is the way he is. The story line has more action and suspense which will make you not want to put the book down.

Renea Mason has done it again with another great book that compliments book 1. Murder, Suspense, lust, lies, sex and hope can be found with in the pages of the book. Because of the sexual content this book is for mature paranormal book readers.

[Bobbi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have you ever read a book that made your heart stutter to a stop and leave you breathless and wanting to scream "NO" all at the same time? That is exactly what happen to me while reading this book. This book had my pulse racing at some points and frustrated in others. Even had me fighting back tears and laughing out loud. I am not sure I personally would last with being bombarded with others dreams or the man I love's voice in my head. Linden is a very strong woman with a huge heart. She is very protective of those she loves. She fights for what she believes in even if it gets her into trouble every single time.

[Vettech · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this second installment of the wonderful new Symphony of Light series, Linden is finding it difficult to cope with Cyril's absence. For a brief time she still hears him talking to her in her head, but even that is becoming less over time. Struggling to deal with her new found abilities and her growing feeling of love for Overton, Linden is feeling overwhelmed at times.

If you thought Symphony of Light & Winter was steamy...get ready this one is even steamier! When Linden & Overton become closer, their flame of desire for each other blazes with full fury!! Linden comes to love him as much as Cyril.

This story really makes you think. There is an air of mystery about it. It's not just a love story, but a puzzle. With some new menacing evil, makes this one very exciting read and keeps your attention until the end. And what an ending it is. Leaving the door wide open for book three, with some very interesting things to look forward to.

Renea Mason is an amazing story teller and never disappoints as she weaves her tale of suspense, desire, lust, love and magic! I highly recommend this fabulous read to all paranormal lovers with a thirst for adventure!!

[PrettyWittyBitty · Rating 3 out of 5]

Overall, I liked this book. I’d give it 3.5 stars.

SUMMARY:

This installment of “Symphony of Light” series by Renea Mason, continues within the life of Linden—our present-day heroine. She is becoming acclimated to her new powers and all their repercussions. Linden is struggling to learn how to wield her abilities with the guidance of Cyril—her demigod—currently bodiless—lover. They communicate via unreliable telepathy. Cyril doesn’t know how long he will be able to stay in contact—leaving Linden as his only hope of returning (to a corporeal state).

Linden is also dealing with the turmoil of being bonded to/living with four extremely hormonal males. Their desires and needs mirror her own. Linden is plagued by their fantasies every night in her dreams. She wants to stay faithful to Cyril and bring him back ASAP.

She is further waylaid by Moreaux (another of Cyril’s creations)—who appears to have unknown motives. She is exceedingly curious about the mysterious man everyone is warding her away from. She simply wants to understand why they feel apprehensive and what makes him so different.

Mary is seen sneaking about—this troubles Linden. Linden believes she heard Mary chanting, which cannot be possible without a tongue—right? RIGHT? Very curious. Her investigations lead to dire consequences. A little death, a little resurrection, a whole-lotta change. The only thing she knows for sure is—she’ll never be able to return to her former life.

Through it all, Linden finds herself relying on Overton—Cyril’s dearest friend. Linden fights against all of her new feelings. With too many revelations—Linden is torn on what she should do. Ultimately, she knows that her heart will be broken.

Love is more powerful than any magic. ←That right there is the crux of this novel. It is the Achilles’ heel to all involved.

REVIEW:

I really enjoyed the first book in this series (“Symphony of Light and Winter”), because it was neither predictable nor drawn out. I read it in one sitting. This book felt significantly shorter than the first one, and it was. I found myself frustrated with this installment. Cyril was absent too much for my liking. I think I went into this book expecting Cyril to come back A LOT sooner—therefore, at the 50% mark I became beyond annoyed Cyril was not a part of the action.

Linden was certainly less pristine in this book. She made more mistakes than solutions, and some of those mistakes were monumentally bad. Linden’s dedication to helping Cyril was hindered by her inability to focus her magic—as well as—come to terms with her new self. She denies her feelings and is left lost.

Overton plays a very large part. I like him. I just don’t like him as much as Cyril. I’d love if he had his own story and was the hero. Overton can be very sexy—but I was already attached to Cyril. My attentions are not so easily dissuaded/distracted. I don’t particularly enjoy themes of (possible) cheating—even if the hero “Okayed” the union. The book contained plenty of hotness and sex—for anyone worrying about that. The sex was freakin’ hot and definitely had variety.

I enjoyed the secondary characters. They brought levity and range. They evoked aspects of Linden I enjoyed—when the majority of the time I wanted to shake her.

I think depicting Linden’s resistance to change was reasonable, because no one would bounce back (unbothered) by everything that she had going on. The heroine had realistic responses to all the sh*$ swirling around her.

The magic and background information were awesome, albeit not nearly enough. The originality makes me happy. I did not enjoy being confused, or left with whiplash when a scene would change with a new chapter and no real explanation. I was made to assume Linden filled the guys in on anything she found out and/or experienced. It felt glossed over. I’m fine with that to a certain point—but there were clearly times that a discussion was necessary. Don’t rob me of information I would enjoy learning.

I want the next installment to flush out more explanations and action scenes. I look forward to reading the next one—with the hope it will be similar to the first.

I definitely was left intrigued by the cliffhanger of Celestine….

[Terri · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great book this is. I loved it. It is a hot & steamy paranormal romance. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the narration team. The story has a great plot, awesome characters and an author that knows exactly what to write and when! This book is even better than book 1! The story is so good, I read the book straight to the end in one sitting!

The author, Renea Mason has a way of writing stories that makes you feel and believe what you are reading and / or hearing. Her stories are the best ever and she is my favorite author of all! The narration team of Noah Micheal Levine and Erin de Ward nail the performances every time. The chemistry between the author, characters and narrators is spot on. Both the narrators delivered another flawless story - a perfect performance!

[Melissa Weeks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Light has to find a way to free Cyril from her head after she kills him he becomes stuck into her head she loves him but as he dies he ties his 6 Angel friends together she must find a way to free them
After controls death he watches over light know he's stuck he wants light but he's been celabet for over 600 years but he is desperate for her after he finds light severely injured he breaks the rules 1 no magic and 2 Light is curios girl he must not touch will he break all his rules will they find a way to bring Cyril back or will they lose him forever I loved this book it was a good read
Was given an arc copy for an honest review

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

a great follow up to the first. I loved that the story picked up right where the last left off. there is so much action that it is hard to put down. The comedic sarcasm and witty banner will make you laugh out loud. I like Cyril and his love for linden, but exploring Overton's devotion actually had me switching sides and it broke my heart to think they couldn't really be together. This cannot be read as a stand alone. you have to read the first book for this book to make sense. I cannot wait for the next tale. the ending made me gasp out loud a phrase I will not repeat here.

[Kishan Paul · Rating 5 out of 5]

So I fell in love with Cyril and Linden in Symphony of Light and Winter. I assumed that this one would be more about their love affair. I was sooo wrong. This was all about Linden and the dashing Overton. As much as I thought I would hate the idea of them together, I left loving Overton and feeling for him. The story is full of suspense and tenderness and humor. Renea Mason has created a sexy world of magic and passion. I loved every minute of it.

[Nessa · Rating 5 out of 5]

What took me so long to find this series??? I thought I was in love with the Dr. Vincent series, but now I can't decide if this beats it out. The first book was pretty amazing, but this one blew it out of the water. All of the different characters blended well together and all the new characters added more depth to this series. If you haven't started reading this series yet, I highly recommend it!

I received and ARC for an honest review of this story.

[Beckey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book picks up right around the same time that the last book ended.
Cyril is still in limbo but he communicates in small bursts with Linden teaching her how she may be able to survive. Things happen and carnal desires are explored ... But will Linden FINALLY save Cyril...

Full review will be on my blog in a few.

[Mercedes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good second book.
Very different paranormal.
Intriguing.
Very good characters.
Looking forward to the 3 rd book.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series. I cannot wait for the next installement!!!

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

*listened to audiobook*

Steamy paranormal. Love it.

[books are love · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not sure about that ending. This isn't a bad thing just wow not expected. Total wrench thrown in there. That is seriously a clusterpooh. A big clusterpooh. We have some bad juju magumba mojo going on in this book towards Cyril and his friends and Linden. Poor Linden and Cyril. But the one I felt for the most is Stanton (Overton).

In this book of the series we explore the bond of Linden and Stanton. We see a side of Stanton that shows his true character. His kindness and love with the fierce loyalty to friendship and over-protectiveness he possesses. No matter what Linden did he was there to help her and support her. And believe me she made a mess of things.

As Linden is adjusting to life without Cyril and trying to find a way to bring him back, she takes over his duties. In the process she realizes how hard it is to be Cyril and all that he does. She also begins to fall in love with Overton. And Overton has always loved her. That is why it kills him when she goes against his wishes. He knows what he wants. I think really with her last action she went against all the men's desires. She had good intentions but just didn't think of the consequences. Her last act for Moreaux was one of compassion for he could not live that way any longer. So brave.

We learn Moreaux's story as well and it is a tearjerker. This poor guy has suffered. He I believe helps play a part in the future of this group and in what is about to happen.

Ms. Mason has written a more intimate loving compassionate tale in this series. I say this because the raw carnal intimacy is not seen but a coming together of two souls bound to love each other but willing to let go in the end kind of intimacy is written. We see two people who love Cyril love each other as well and try to fight it. When they succumb neither wants to let go but each feels they must in the end. One because of his love for Cyril the other to help ease the pain. We also have some no alot of twists that occur leaving us with many questions-Why all the Mary's? What is the animal shifter exactly? And the ending really leaves us with many questions. The beautiful coming together of Stanton and Linden was wonderfully written and the twists in the story were masterful.

A wonderful book of romance, loyalty and it has a dark twist of revenge and powertrips thrown in.

[Amanda Miller /A Bookaholic's Fix: Feeding the Addiction · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought the first book was one of the best books I had ever read and hoped the second would be just as good, I wasn't disappointed.

This book was absolutely riveting! If you haven't read the first one, you need to start there to get the full effect. So Linden and the others are trying to find a way to bring Cyril back from whatever realm he is trapped in. At first, Linden can hear Cyril in her head but as his communications with her get shorter and farther apart, he gives her permission to seek comfort in Overton's arms, after all, he once had to seek a way to ease the tension with others for centuries until he finally found her. It isn't easy to convince Overton to cooperate with the arrangement, but when he finally gives in to his desires and hers... Lets just say he has several hundred years of catching up to do and he isn't wasting time.

I wasn't too sure about all of it at first... I mean, I was TEAM CYRIL all the way but then, I found myself wondering what Linden and Overton could become. It was like being on a roller coaster. The sex is HOT but there is all of the underlying emotion left to deal with. Then there is something bizarre going on with the former housekeeper which leads to all kinds of trouble... There are problems with Clarence and Moreau's story gets told... I don't want to give anything away so I'm going to stop there.

I am completely in love with this series and I cannot wait until the next installment comes out.

[Nessie Strange · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great follow up to Renea's first book, Symphony of Light and Winter. I love the blend of humor, hot romance and the complete supernatural mythos that she's created. We aren't stuck in an old storyline--familiar mythologies have been molded to create something completely original and exciting. It's a story that has continued to evolve, with many unexpected twists and turns along the way. In this book, Cyril is stuck in another plane of existence, leaving Linden in the care of Overton (and the rest of their supernatural male harem)as they try to figure out a way to get Cyril back. I really don't want to give any of the plot away, but I will say that I LOVE Overton--I think he's probably one of my favorite characters (besides Clarence, who is just plain hilarious). This story has hot sex, it has action, danger...and it ends in a bit of a cliffhanger. It's not a frustrating cliffhanger, but one that leaves the reader thinking hurry up and bring on book three!

[Elle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Between the Waters, Renea Mason’s follow up to Symphony of Light and Winter, is a sexy, wild ride off the beaten path into uncharted paranormal territory. Follow Linden as she copes with the absence of Cyril in a house full of hunky horny immortals that all fantasize about her.

I found this a quick read, very fast paced and cleanly written. An excellent follow up to Symphony of Light and Winter that explores more about the personal history of her dynamic characters. This series is not the for the faint of heart, Renea Mason keeps you on your toes by following none of the rules of traditional romance.

[Lisa Cooper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book! Sex scenes with Linden and Stanton are WOW! To have him for one night! *sigh* Cyril is ok. The story plot is good. The weird creature that Clarence can shift into is difficult to understand. Along with all the "Marys", but I love how Cyril gets turned on by her taking control of situations and not being afraid of anything or anyone. Seriously a great read!!" I seriously look forward to book 3!

[Elizabeth Robbins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful, sexy, humorous at times....I think I liked this one even better than the first! It has a sweet romance, hot sex, and humor...all the best aspects of a really good story. Added to the paranormal elements, it's quickly become the type of series that I rabidly follow. I cant wait for book 3!

[Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great story, and of course now I'm waiting on the edge of my seat to see what happens next. There is a very complicated relationship between Cyril and Linden and it is very interesting to see it come to light. There is also a complicated relationship between Linden and Cyril's " friends ". Now we just have to hang on long enough to see how it all plays out.

[Mariah Kingsley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm team Overton! This story was better then the first not to mention it was told beautifully. I can't wait for book three because I'm all for sharing!

[Diana in SC · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 star overall, 4 stars story, 5 stars narration
An angsty, wild ride

As I continue in this PNR RH series, this novel-length audiobook did not appeal to me as much as the previous two (“Impostors’ Kiss” and “Symphony of Light and Winter”). FYI, this “Symphony” series must be listened to in order. While I loved the magic-filled action scenes and the world-building, the overwhelming emotional turmoil and some annoying male behavior decreased my enjoyment. Regardless, I feel compelled to listen to the rest of the series to find out what happens to everybody.

If you like angsty, super-steamy paranormal romance with splashes of violence and magic, then this is the series for you. There is a reverse harem theme and true love. The love scenes are red-hot. The plot twists made me say “What the hell?” (in a good way). I just wish that the heroine Linden didn’t have to go through such emotional turmoil. Also, Cyril is way to “alpha” for me; he gets on my nerves, but his personality makes sense for the character.

The duet narration continues to be exquisitely perfect. These two narrators, Erin deWard and Noah Michael Levine, blow my mind with how they bring the story to vivid, breathing life. They are equally awesome at love scenes, funny conversations, and death-defying action scenes. I especially loved the British accent of Stanton Overton and the jovial Southern voice of Linden’s gay best friend Clarence.

I requested and received a free audiobook copy via #AudiobookObsession, and I voluntarily wrote this honest review.
#AudiobookObsession Reviewer

[J.L. Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

What I liked?
So this is the second book in the Symphony of Light series and Between the Waters picks up the rest of the tale without ever missing a beat. Again, Renea Mason does a great job continuing to paint the picture with suspense and romance. Also, the relationship between Linden and Overton is more of a feature in this book, which made it even more enjoyable for me because Overton is just wonderful.

Finally, the book was steamy and entertaining to say the least, just like its predecessor.

What I didn’t like?
There was absolutely nothing that I didn’t like about this book.

Overall?
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, Renea Mason is lit. Between the Waters is a perfect mix of emotion and intrigue.

[Karin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Symphony of Light Book Two.

With Cyril between worlds, Linden remains in the house with Cyril's men, including Stanton Overton. Overton is Cyril's second in command and his oldest creation. Linden trusts him almost more than Cyril because of his dominant soul, the priest. However, Linden doesn't understand that Overton is not a priest. Cyril does a little matchmaking from the beyond, leading to Linden and Overton's more personal interactions. Linden is still new to the supernatural world, though, and she makes mistakes. Mary and Moreaux are a mystery that Linden is determined to solve, but can she handle the newcomers in her life?

If you're looking for a supernatural story with a newbie who makes mistakes and her mentors, this is the book for you!

🎧AudiobookObsession

[Sharon · Rating 2 out of 5]

This second in the series (well, there was a novella in between this one and the first...) felt garbled and messy to me. The main love interests are apart for the majority of the book, and a secondary lover comes into the picture. Their connection left me yawning, and most of the book is spent waiting for something to happen.

What really left me cold, however, is that the formatting on the book was all messed up, which makes it harder to read and harder to get lost in the story. It also looks unprofessional and like the author and/or the publisher just don’t care.

Not sure if I’ll go on to the next installment.

[Amanda- LateNightReader · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG.... wow, this audiobook was excellent. It was phenomenal. I mean, the story was great. It was creative, original, and left you not wanting, but NEEDING more. The narrators both did AMAZING jobs. I loved the dual narration. I loved how they seemed to actually be talking to each other. That doesn't always happen. A lot of narrators they seem to be reading. And the way they laughed throughout the book was so cute too. I definitely left me wanting more. Can't wait to see what happens next!!

This book was given to me at my request. *Thank you Audiobook Obsession*. I am providing a voluntary and honest review. <3

[Brandie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let me first state that this book and it's narration are amazing. If you were not aware of my love for this series, see my prior raving reviews for a refresher :)

Renea does such an amazing job with Character development. I truly feel I know each character. I scream at them, I swoon for them, I lust for them. In this book, Linden gets to know each of the other leading men so much more. You learn how they tick and see as she develops those special bonds with each. Linden is also coming into her own and learning her own capabilities. I loved seeing this and can't wait to read more.

[Traceys · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.75 stars .

I enjoyed this read, the second part of this series. It was action packed and very steamy. I knew Linden had feelings for Overton, but her feelings for Cyril were so much more, well in my head they are! So I wasn't keen on them together. He is lovely, caring and sexy but I wanted Cyril. You could say well he is part Cyril and that's how I went with it.

I was happy with the ending of this book.

Be prepared for a sexy read, but one with lots of action and magic along the way.

[Trisha c · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can this series any more intense, sensual? Linden's magic power is getting stronger. Cyril is still in her thoughts. She falls in love Overton. She still doesn't know to bring Cyril back until there is terror, rampage, torment. There's deceit, thrills, torment, murder, love, steamy sex.
Narration by Noah Michael Levine and Erin Deward tell this story with so much emotion. I loved listening to it!🎧audiobookobsessionreviewer🎧

[DDM · Rating 5 out of 5]

I cannot get enough of this author!

Her stories are amazing. You're invested in the characters as soon as you meet them. They just come to life immediately and you get drawn into the story as if you were standing in the same room. Her books are phenomenal. (Especially the Dr. Vincent series! ) I don't regret any lost moments of sleep!