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Deep in the heart of the rainforest, the peaceful Wakani people are protected by the nagual -- fierce jaguar warriors able to change from man to feline. Felipe is one of them, but a chance encounter with a mysterious woman becomes more than he could’ve ever bargained for. Upon revealing his true form, the desirable young man immediately captures Dahlia’s interest.

Dynamite, guns, and the spread of an invading civilization are only some of the perils threatening Felipe's tribe. Another hungry danger lurks just beyond the village boundaries, and it eagerly awaits the chance to make the whole tribe its prey.

Felipe becomes torn between duty and desire, but Dahlia’s past makes them natural enemies. Can they overcome their differences in time to face the greater danger… or will a sinister presence consume them all?

202 pages, Paperback

First published May 15, 2014

15 people are currently reading
698 people want to read

About the author

A. Payne

15 books78 followers
Alisha Payne is a Stay-at-Home-Mom with two wonderful children, a son and a daughter, and a husband serving in the United States Navy.

Her interest in writing started during her middle school years, beginning with poetry, and advanced to short stories. Later in high school, she enjoyed writing longer stories with a small group of friends, though none of their projects were ever finished.

Alisha is both an avid reader and, believe it or not, a video gamer. Her current favorites when it comes to games are Dragon Age, the Mass Effect series, anything Elder Scrolls related, Star Wars Knights of the Old Republic, and Fallout 3. She also likes a good hidden object style game and playing Skylanders with her son.
She owes her love of reading to her mother, who introduced her to the worlds of Pern and Xanth. She favors several authors and book genres but the following are among her favorite: Stephen King, Tolkien, Mercedes Lackey, Christine Feehan, J.K. Rowling, James Rollins, and Jim Butcher.

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5 stars
60 (52%)
4 stars
26 (22%)
3 stars
20 (17%)
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5 (4%)
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3 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
Profile Image for Jennifer McDonald.
Author 4 books46 followers
April 26, 2014
I received this novella in exchange for an honest review on the “Lovers of Paranormal” Group on Goodreads.com.
Primal Legacy is the sweet, sensual story of Dahlia, a mysterious artist, and Felipe, a shape shifting jaguar. Though I enjoyed the action and adventure, malicious villains, and a vast assortment of magical creatures, it was that perfectly paced love story that kept me reading well into the night.
I don’t want to give away any spoilers but I’ll say Dahlia is a total badass. I love strong, confident heroines who aren’t afraid to open their heart one moment and kick evil, patasola ass the next. And unlike most paranormal romances, Felipe, her young hunter, isn’t the quintessential alpha male. He is strong and brave yet still curious and uncertain in his youth. The qualities gave him a truly organic feel that’s sometimes hard to find in this genre.
Loved the story and recommend to anyone who likes a little sizzle in their High Fantasy.
2 reviews1 follower
April 27, 2014
This is an ARC review.

I was given this book to provide feedback based on what I'd read in the book.

First and foremost: This is an endearing story. It will twist your stomach and make your heart cry out as you read this story. Dahlia, a mysterious artist and Felipe, a shape-shifting jaguar warrior.

Both are fiercely protective of each other and you come to learn each of their pasts that draw you in ever deeper and make you want to ask more questions and learn more.

Their love-makings flowed quite well in this story and added greatly to the plotlines in this story... and eventually causes contention. Then... ahhh, wait, I'm going into spoiler territory here. Sorry, no can do! :P

All in all, a love story that sizzles quite nicely. Which leads me to say that... it feels unfinished, like there's more to come of the two. I can't wait to get more of the two. Essentially... a foreshadowing of more to come for the couple. I rate this book a 20/10.
Profile Image for Angie Martin.
Author 53 books548 followers
December 16, 2014
I have read The Regent's Gamble by these authors, and I can honestly say that they have a home run with this book as well! I'm not sure which one I love more. Primal Legacy whisked me back into a world of magic and romance, this time in the heart of the Amazon. Very few authors can really nail description like Payne & Taylor. They are masters at bringing the settings, action, and characters to life. Dahlia and Felipe are more incredible characters that I never want to stop reading about. I could feel their emotions, their pain, their love, their sadness, their joy. The dialogue was real and natural. The settings were also so real that it felt as if I had visited there many times and I could see the story play out in my mind. This is all a real testament to the authors' writing style. Once again, the writing was seamless and cohesive; I could not tell that two authors wrote this. Payne & Taylor have a great thing going and I cannot wait to read their next books!
Profile Image for Jacquelyn Smith.
Author 7 books1 follower
May 19, 2014
A journey like no other !!!
Dahlia had no choice, she would have to bite the cat to instill a sense of sedating calm if she wanted to survive the encounter. That seemed a logical compromise until this sleek jaguar turned into a sun-warm, brown skin man. This is a story like no other, you will enjoy the action, adventure and the wild villains. This paranormal is difference from rest of every day hard core alpha male. This beauty will show his uncertain and let Dahlia led the way without a fight. This is a journey you do not want to miss !!!

I was riding high thru out the book on a five star rating dreamers, so check it for yourselves you will not be disappointed.

I was given this book in exchange for my honest review.

http://cometomefantasy.blogspot.com
Profile Image for Sarah Ann.
103 reviews5 followers
June 4, 2014
I found this to be a great story of love that can survive all things. I loved how the story was written, I even found some parts to be poetically beautiful. The characters, I'm absolutely in love with especially Felipe. I loved how the authors kept me on my toes. When I thought the story was going to be all sweet and nice, BAM crazy things happened, but I loved it! This was a great story that I would defiantly recommend!!
Profile Image for BooksandBeyondFiftyShades.
1,350 reviews158 followers
June 6, 2014
Dynamite, guns, and the spread of an invading civilization are only some of the perils threatening the peaceful Wakani tribe. Another danger lurks just beyond the village boundaries, and it eagerly awaits the chance to make the whole tribe its prey.

Fortunately, the Wakani are protected by the nagual - fierce jaguar warriors given the ability to change from man to feline. Felipe is one of them, but a chance encounter with a mysterious woman becomes more than the shifter could’ve ever bargained for. Upon revealing his true form, the desirable young man immediately captures Dahlia’s interest.

Felipe soon finds himself torn between duty and desire, but Dahlia’s past makes them natural enemies. Can they overcome their differences in time to face the greater danger… or will a sinister presence consume them all?

The writers did a great job with this paranormal romance. There was great detail with their surroundings being in an exotic jungle. It was a refreshing twist on vampires, especially when paired with shape shifters. Having a strong heroine and young inexperienced aloha male gives this story line a fresh edge.

A well written Great Story, that I would recommend go for something a little different, put some magic in your life.

From the Author

The tale of Primal Legacy is a sweet love story and the first in a series of romances within the same magical world created for our epic-length novels. While writing this book, we wanted to avoid the typical vampire tale. We hope that you'll enjoy our tale of shapeshifters and the brand new twist that we added to the various supernatural creatures within. About the Author Alisha Payne loves to read and has always had a fondness for creative writing.

She started with poetry and moved up to short stories, before eventually writing novels with her friend Nick. She loves reading a whole range of genres and authors from Tolkien to James Rollins, and blames her love for reading on her mother, who introduced her to the worlds of Pern and Xanth. Alisha is a former Petty Officer of the United States Navy, which is where she met her wonderful husband. Her husband continues to serve while Alisha now stays at home with her six year old son and three year old daughter who keep her busy around the house. As do her cat and dog who, after five years, still do not get along.
Profile Image for Aisha Egal.
13 reviews
September 24, 2015


Primal Legacy was given to me by The Lovers of Paranormal group in exchange for an honest review.

Firstly, I would like to say that this deserves more than the five stars that I gave it, but alas, there is no higher rating on Goodreads so I'll give it my imaginary 10 billion stars!

Let's just say my mid was blown.

This cute (and dangerously hot!) story of Dahlia the vampire and Felipe the panther shifter, takes us to imaginary world in which the natives of the Amazon have more land than what those of today have. Also unlike the real world, there is a paranormal twist. The protectors of the natives were blessed with the ability to shift into jaguars, one of these protectors being Felipe. Felipe and his village are not welcoming to strangers on their lands, that is, until he meets Dahlia. After a rough start, the two build a strong friendship that begins to lead to more.

I was very satisfied with the main characters in this novella. Dahlia was strong, kind and also very wise. She is no young vampire and it shows in her mannerisms and knowledge. While on the other hand, the young Felipe is unsure, cute and ignorant to the world outside his forest. I felt that these two complemented each other so well.

What I loved most about this novella is the imagery in the author's writing. It felt as if I were sucked right into the world alongside the characters. I loved how descriptive and beautiful each scene was. Not to mention the steamy love scenes. *wink wink* This story just makes me want to fly off to the Amazon and find myself a shifter!

In all, Primal Legacy is an awe inspiring book that has given me a new appreciation for native people and their struggle to preserve their way of life. Can't wait to read the main books in this series!!

Profile Image for Book Junky Girls.
840 reviews33 followers
May 24, 2014
Dahlia enjoys the peace of nature, she's different from what you may know but she's not some scary monster. In the depths of the Amazon she comes across Felipe, well at first she's not sure who he is except a shifter panther trying to kill her. Once she proves she means no harm they go their own way. In a world where all types of creatures some are more dangerious than others as Dahlia and Felipe learn about each other and about their different lives they are targets from creatures that could destroy them all.

Dahlia is strong and tough and level headed when it come to dealing with others. She's seen the world and is comfortable with nature and the creatures in it, but you can tell she gets lonely. Felipe is young and inexperienced but he has a good heart and cares for his people. They both have different experiences and learn from each other, their freindship builds them both up and gives them a different type of strength together.

The story itself was interesting and kept me intrigued throughout. The paranormal element was very indepth and my only complaint was that some of it wasn't explained very well. Overall I'll definitely be looking out for the next one in this series.
Profile Image for James Chalk.
Author 5 books127 followers
May 19, 2014
A Great Read!
I loved this novella! It took about three pages to get me hooked and then I couldn’t put it down. The characters are really likable and the authors do a fantastic job slowly revealing details about the intriguing backstory. The action is excellent and the romance is compelling to say the least. The authors have a way with descriptive prose that completely immerses you in the setting without dragging on or distracting from the fantastic, exciting plot. Clearly this novella fits in to a larger imagined universe conjured by these masterful authors for the readers’ entertainment. Also, clearly this is the first installment in what could be an epic tale about the Felipe character’s trials and travails. I can’t stop thinking about this beautiful story and the wondrous amazonian jungle it is set in. Butterflies play a symbolic role in the book and are featured on the cover, this is fitting because I feel like these authors have emerged from a chrysalis to spread their glorious multicolored wings and cary us to a different exciting land of the imagination. I will be reading everything this authoring team publishes! I only wish they would write faster.
Profile Image for Gypsy Madden.
Author 2 books31 followers
November 3, 2016
Though I have read plenty of vampire/shifter stories, including ones about panthers, it is the exotic setting that sets this apart from the rest of the pack, and this book certainly did revel in its setting, fully bringing to life the magic, mystery, danger, and romance of the Amazon. Though the Amazon is already another world of its own, this story wove in its magical world setup adding in a team of magic artifact hunters, as well as vampires, shifters , demonic creatures, natural spirits of the jungle, and a hierarchy of magic users. Dahlia was very reminiscent of the Twilight vampires, in the way that she loved art (akin to Edward’s playing the piano) and especially her “vegetarian” non-human diet and philosophically dwelling on her lost humanity. While Felipe was fun to watch as he grew up over the course of this short book from stubborn hot-head, slowly gaining knowledge in his curiosity, and trying to open the eyes of his village to the larger world around them that not everything out there was a danger to them.
Profile Image for Jana Petken.
Author 54 books739 followers
June 25, 2014
The beautiful descriptive prose flowed through the fist few pages and immersed me in the story.
Dahlia and Felipe gave us a beautiful love story but I feel that there is much more to come, where these two characters are concerned. Aside from the romance, the novella was jam packed with action and adventure, from villains to wonderful magical creatures.

Dahlia is a strong and confident heroine. Felipe brings a unique paradox - he is brave, however he still has so much to learn about himself, others, and the world he lives in. The writers are totally in sync with each other. Their writing is fluid and confident. The phrasing is beautifully executed, making this an easy read, relaxing read.. I am looking forward to reading a sequel to Primal Legacy and hoping I don't have to wait too long for these two great writers.
Profile Image for Linda Watkins.
Author 18 books368 followers
December 17, 2014
The prologue immediately sucks you in and, once caught, you cannot put this book down! It is a beautifully written, and tender, love story, set in the South American rainforest. It features a strong female protagonist, Dahlia, and her lover, Filipe. But this is no ordinary romance - no, Filipe is nagual - a shape-shifting jaguar!

Primal Legacy takes the reader on a magical roller coaster ride of adventure and romance filled with vampires, shifters, and other strange creatures; all in an exotic jungle setting that is wonderfully described. The characters are complex and the plot unfolds smoothly, keeping the reader invested in Dahlia and Felipe's fates.

This is a story any fan of the paranormal or dark fantasy will love and it is highly recommended.
Profile Image for Candice Burnett.
Author 4 books89 followers
May 26, 2014
Thoroughly enjoyed this novel from start to finish. From the moment I picked up the novel I couldn't put it down, which was perfect because I had a nice lazy weekend finishing it :) The romance in it was believable and the chemistry between the characters was riveting. It had me always guessing and always wanting more, was not predictable at all. Had just enough details to make me feel like I was right there walking alongside the characters, and not too much description where it dragged the story down. Excited to read more from this writing duo. The setting was what really set me this book apart from other shifter novels. Overall would recommend this novel to any who enjoy the paranormal :)
Profile Image for Hunter Jones.
Author 23 books1,311 followers
August 4, 2016
Primal Legacy is the story of Dahlia, an artist, and Felipe, a shape shifting jaguar. Their love story is the center of Primal Legacy.

I greatly enjoyed this read. It is a fantastical journey. Exotic setting, dreamy characters, steamy romance and a strong, paranormal plot.

The writing is smooth. The story is easily read and easily imagined. I recommend this story to anyone who enjoys shifter Fantasy and I look forward to the second story of Primal Legacy.

This is my second read from this writing duo. I received a copy of this story for a fair and honest review.
Profile Image for Nicole.
1,850 reviews39 followers
May 28, 2014
Book provided by author in exchange for an honest review.

Another enjoyable book in this series; the story flows at a great pace, with equal amounts of action, romance and paranormal elements. The exotic location is a great choice for the backdrop. The writing is wonderfully descriptive without going overboard on minor, inane details (which for me can kill my level of enjoyment). I don't want to give anything away, but I really enjoyed Dahlia and Felipe's story and I'm looking forward to continuing more books in this fab series!
Profile Image for Suzanne Steele.
Author 77 books614 followers
June 6, 2014
After reading another novel from these authors, I was happy to accept this story in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I loved the rainforest setting and the new twist on vampires. There were so many beautiful scenes in this novel that I didn't want it to end. The steamy romance was perfectly paced and the story was filled with action.
Dahlia is a total bad ass but Felipe's sweet hearted nature made me fall in love with him. Sometimes it's nice to see a guy who doesn't fall into the typical alpha mold in fantasy!
Profile Image for Susan Tarr.
Author 9 books151 followers
May 30, 2014
I read this book soon after finishing another novel by these two authors. Dahlia and Felipe's story is a beautiful tale incorporating adventure and magic. I especially enjoyed the jaguar shifters and the new twist on vampires. The Patasola were quite frightening! It was different from what I normally read, but it was a real page turner. I felt engaged with the characters, and shall eagerly await more about these two and their life in the Amazon.
Profile Image for Justine Gauckler.
54 reviews1 follower
August 25, 2014
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.


Omfg this book was the shit!!!!! Nick and Alisha did their thing with this one.
The story of Felipe and Dahlia is one that touched the core of my imagination. I could smell the scents of the Amazon, feel the water on my skin, hear the voices of the Wakani people. I laughed, cried, loved and lost when they did.
Oh and the end....my poor heart. I swear they made me ugly cry then cheer!!!!!
Profile Image for Sara.
57 reviews
June 18, 2014
This was a first reads book that I received and I really enjoyed it. It had great characters and an amazing plot that keeps the reader's attention and leaves them wanting more. Great book. Can't wait to read more from these authors.
Profile Image for Storm Chase.
Author 13 books212 followers
May 29, 2014
Vampires, shape-shifters, black magic and a tribal community that isn't totally-wonderful-and-in-touch-with-nature. Good fun, well developed characters and a classic storyline. I liked it!

Book given for honest review.
279 reviews7 followers
January 3, 2015
This review is from: Primal Legacy (Spellbound Tales Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
I'm giving this 5 stars for the incredible descriptive scenes. I do not usually
read this kind of fantasy but I am really glad I did. Authors can learn a lot
from these two who amazed me in the details.
Profile Image for Brandy.
11 reviews1 follower
May 27, 2014
This is a great read from beginning to end! I started reading it and couldn't put it down. I can't wait for book 2!
Profile Image for Jerilynn.
13 reviews1 follower
January 11, 2015
O m g!!!

This was an incredible book. Different in the best of ways....the writers as always give their best to their readers...on to the next in the series!!!!!
Profile Image for Vanessa Wester.
Author 25 books168 followers
February 19, 2015
Interesting ideas... An okay read. Took me a while to get into & I found some scenarios confusing. I did like Dahlia a lot - first good female vampire I have read about - nice twist! :)
Profile Image for MiraJane.
360 reviews5 followers
May 15, 2018
I’m a bit ashamed to say that the pretty cover is what drove me to read this book. After all, you should never judge a book by its cover. Still, I was a bit suspicious of the book going in since I literally and deliberately knew nothing of the story, not even the plot. Turns out, not reading the reviews and description of The panther’s legacy was one of the best decisions I’ve made. It made the story so much more suspenseful, mysterious and a absolutely wonderful read. Paint me happily surprised!

What surprised me the most was the setting and world build. I did not expect such a setting as in the jungle and such a rich unique culture, yet similar to humans original inhabitants of the area. When I saw the book cover and started reading I had this prejudice that this was going to be one of those typical “were-animal” or “good vampire” sappy romance stories you usually find in lesser known YA books. I am so happy this book proved me wrong! The storyline was excellent as well as the characters and the intriguing romance blossoming between Dhalia and Filipe. I was afraid that there were going to be this instant connection and suddenly they are in love kind of deal. I find that so underwhelming and lazy. The relationship between them had a rocky start however and instead of having to suffer through insta love as you find in a lot of YA I got to really see and be a part of their relationship developing and their feelings growing for each other. That is exactly what a great romance should be! Read this and learn YA authors out there!

I don’t know much about this author and book, but I think this is a stand-alone novella from a series. I could kind of see it while I was reading. Some detailed and explanations were brushed by or left out like me, the reader should already know this world and it’s supernatural aspects. While too much details can make a story slow-paced and boring, this book just went the opposite way and lacked to much information for me to completely understand everything. It made it confusing sometimes and it felt a bit rushed lacing in depth because of that. I mean, I get why it is that way if it’s part of a series, since the information is already put in earlier books and the author doesn’t want it to become too repetitive. If this is a standalone story however, then you are supposed to be able to read it without having read the series. And sure I could read it, and as you already gathered I enjoyed it a lot. But reading it did not come without difficulty.

The panther’s legacy have made me curious about the author and the reset of the series and that is awesome sign that the book is working out and pulling in readers. Now I just have to look more into the series and this fictional world!
Profile Image for Norma Stevens.
4 reviews
May 24, 2017
Very good book. I really enjoyed the storyline and the scenery details. The characters were so real, also.. I look forward to reading more of this series.
2,904 reviews12 followers
July 18, 2018
Once again I have found a good book in this story. I found it hard to put it down until the end. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy.
Profile Image for Angela Vanasselberg.
Author 1 book5 followers
May 15, 2020
Worth the read

I enjoyed the story but wished the point of views didn't change mid paragraph. Getting past that the story was original and refreshing
285 reviews1 follower
January 20, 2021
Set in the Amazon our heroine meets our hero in an unlikely way...but gaining acceptance even when helping to best their enemies is unlikely.a beautifully written story with wonderful characters.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews