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Creatus #0.5
Creatus (They Exist)
For four thousand years, creatus have concealed themselves from the humans who hunted them almost to extinction. Unwittingly, one creatus will endanger them all...
As with most of his family, Derrick Ashton knows his future and what position he's destined to fill within his unique society. Everything changes, however, when he breaks one of his family's strictest laws and falls in love-with a human.
In his quest to protect the woman he can never have, a twist of faith propels him into a new role that will cause dissension among his family and endanger the anonymity that they've strived for thousands of years to protect. Now, he will risk everything to save the girl from humans and his own kind. The one thing he can't save her from, however...is herself.
The Creatus Series is not your normal paranormal story...it's a realistic romantic mystery based on the myths you've heard your entire life. Prepare to believe...
As with most of his family, Derrick Ashton knows his future and what position he's destined to fill within his unique society. Everything changes, however, when he breaks one of his family's strictest laws and falls in love-with a human.
In his quest to protect the woman he can never have, a twist of faith propels him into a new role that will cause dissension among his family and endanger the anonymity that they've strived for thousands of years to protect. Now, he will risk everything to save the girl from humans and his own kind. The one thing he can't save her from, however...is herself.
The Creatus Series is not your normal paranormal story...it's a realistic romantic mystery based on the myths you've heard your entire life. Prepare to believe...
248 pages, Paperback
Published February 10, 2014
82 people are currently reading
978 people want to read
About the author
Carmen DeSousa
43 books648 followersReader Profile: First and foremost, I am a reader. From the moment I could hold a book, I've been fascinated with the written word. I enjoy almost everything, but lean toward romantic-suspense and magical realism. If you're looking for poor reviews, you won't find them here. The reason...life's too short to read bad books. If a book isn't at least three stars halfway through, I stop reading, and therefore, don't feel as though I have the right to review it. That's my policy! Please don't send me requests, though. If you are one of my cyber friends, I will eventually find you. :)
Author Profile: I write stories that overflow with romance, mystery, suspense, a hint of paranormal sometimes, and of course, tragedy. After all, what would a great story be without a tragic event setting the stage? All of my novels are sensual but not erotic, gripping but not graphic, and will hopefully make you cry, laugh, love, and hope.
New Series: Midnight Sons
#1 Sam's Folly
#2 Alex's Atonement
#3 Vince's Chance
The Southern Collection:
#1 She Belongs to Me
#2 Land of the Noonday Sun
#3 Entangled Dreams
#4 When Noonday Ends
#5 Split Decisions
Creatus Series (Paranormal Romantic Suspense)
#0 Creatus (They Exist) The Prequel
#1 Creatus
#2 Creatus Rogue
#3 Creatus Eidolon
#4 Creatus Animus
#5 Creatus Talis
Author Profile: I write stories that overflow with romance, mystery, suspense, a hint of paranormal sometimes, and of course, tragedy. After all, what would a great story be without a tragic event setting the stage? All of my novels are sensual but not erotic, gripping but not graphic, and will hopefully make you cry, laugh, love, and hope.
New Series: Midnight Sons
#1 Sam's Folly
#2 Alex's Atonement
#3 Vince's Chance
The Southern Collection:
#1 She Belongs to Me
#2 Land of the Noonday Sun
#3 Entangled Dreams
#4 When Noonday Ends
#5 Split Decisions
Creatus Series (Paranormal Romantic Suspense)
#0 Creatus (They Exist) The Prequel
#1 Creatus
#2 Creatus Rogue
#3 Creatus Eidolon
#4 Creatus Animus
#5 Creatus Talis
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
April 28, 2014
I finished book 1, CREATUS, and had just started book 2, when CREATUS (THEY EXIST) came out. So I paused my reading and grabbed this one instead.
So glad I did!
Book 1 starts pretty late in the game, leaving many questions as to how the characters got to the point they are when we meet them. Creatus (They Exist)covers these holes. Unlike most stories, this one was probably pretty tricky to write, simply because anyone who has read book 1 already knows the outcome. With that in mind, Carmen still creates a story with all the tension and unexpected twists and turns needed to keep a reader's attention.
New aspects are brought into the characters' backgrounds, which really deepens the understanding of their later actions as well as adds a new insight into their personalities. I felt as if I were getting to know the characters all over again.
The pacing is great, always introducing new aspects that I didn't see coming. I read this in two sittings and had trouble putting it down after the 1st one (but we all need our sleep). I still found myself fevering for the main character's safety although I knew she'd be okay, since I'd read book 1.
Summed up, Carmen DeSousa did a great job in filling in the information that I really felt was missing in book 1 and accomplished it while still adding new bits, twists and turns. I really recommend this to anyone who has already read the other books in this series as well as to anyone who is just starting with it.
So glad I did!
Book 1 starts pretty late in the game, leaving many questions as to how the characters got to the point they are when we meet them. Creatus (They Exist)covers these holes. Unlike most stories, this one was probably pretty tricky to write, simply because anyone who has read book 1 already knows the outcome. With that in mind, Carmen still creates a story with all the tension and unexpected twists and turns needed to keep a reader's attention.
New aspects are brought into the characters' backgrounds, which really deepens the understanding of their later actions as well as adds a new insight into their personalities. I felt as if I were getting to know the characters all over again.
The pacing is great, always introducing new aspects that I didn't see coming. I read this in two sittings and had trouble putting it down after the 1st one (but we all need our sleep). I still found myself fevering for the main character's safety although I knew she'd be okay, since I'd read book 1.
Summed up, Carmen DeSousa did a great job in filling in the information that I really felt was missing in book 1 and accomplished it while still adding new bits, twists and turns. I really recommend this to anyone who has already read the other books in this series as well as to anyone who is just starting with it.
November 17, 2016
was OK. would read the series if it's was at the library. can buy the 3 book series for 5.99 on Amazon might consider. story doesn't make a lot of sense. not sure what Derrick is. I mean he's creatus but that's not explained. at first he is infatuated with Janelle but she was human and that was totally off limits so he wouldn't pursue any relationship not even friendship once he thought she was falling for him. but once she was killed her took on the role of watcher of her 8 year old "daughter" and eventually 15years later decided he wants to have a relationship with that daughter and his family is like"OK when she turns 25 go for it" basically. when before with Janelle he wasn't even allowed to be friends because she was human, makes no sense.
June 5, 2014
I won an ecopy of this book in a giveaway, and I already had the first two books in this series (Creatus and Creatus Rogue) on my Kindle. The prequel was published after the publication of these two books, and I’m glad I started with it.
I really enjoyed the prequel. It gives the readers the opportunity to get to know the characters better.
There is a twist in this story I never saw coming (no spoilers here), and as soon as it happened I couldn’t put the book down. The ending is highly intriguing, and now I really look forward to reading Creatus (Book 1).
I really enjoyed the prequel. It gives the readers the opportunity to get to know the characters better.
There is a twist in this story I never saw coming (no spoilers here), and as soon as it happened I couldn’t put the book down. The ending is highly intriguing, and now I really look forward to reading Creatus (Book 1).
February 8, 2018
Great way to hook me in!!! Now I have to know whats going to happen in the next books!
July 28, 2015
Unlike many of the other reviewers, "They Exist" is my first exposure to the Creatus series. While I enjoyed the world building and where the plot was heading, I was rather disappointed at the end. Yes, I realize that this is really a prequel and only meant to lay the foundation for the series; nonetheless, I wanted a little more or rather I wanted the main character, Derrick to do more.
Derrick Ashton is a Creatus (vampire) who is is medical school. This schooling is necessary if he is going to work in his father's medical clinic. While attending a lecture, he notices a woman stumble into the classroon. For some strange reason, Derrick is immediately attracted to her unlike the feelings he has for his intended, Tori. His fascination for this woman and her safety is all for naught when she is killed leaving an eight year old daughter behind. Now his fascination is about to go to a whole new level!
I enjoyed this book and find that I am definitely interested in going on with the series, I'm just not sure I know who Derrick really is yet. I find his inability to do more than sit on the sidelines and watch Kris disturbing rather than romantic. I am hoping the other books in the series will flush out their relationship better. If you are interested in this book and this series, I recommend that your purchase the boxed set. It is much cheaper than buying each book separately.
Derrick Ashton is a Creatus (vampire) who is is medical school. This schooling is necessary if he is going to work in his father's medical clinic. While attending a lecture, he notices a woman stumble into the classroon. For some strange reason, Derrick is immediately attracted to her unlike the feelings he has for his intended, Tori. His fascination for this woman and her safety is all for naught when she is killed leaving an eight year old daughter behind. Now his fascination is about to go to a whole new level!
I enjoyed this book and find that I am definitely interested in going on with the series, I'm just not sure I know who Derrick really is yet. I find his inability to do more than sit on the sidelines and watch Kris disturbing rather than romantic. I am hoping the other books in the series will flush out their relationship better. If you are interested in this book and this series, I recommend that your purchase the boxed set. It is much cheaper than buying each book separately.
May 20, 2014
Let me just say, I knew right from the very beginning that I would love this book. I have read one Carmen DeSousa book before (She Belongs to Me) and I thought it was a great read. When I got this Prequel (Creatus: They Exist), I instantly placed first on my TBR list (I know, sounds, unfair, right?) but I did not regret this decision.
Creatus: They Exist is the story behind Derrick's "stalkerish" behavoir towards Kristina. I haven't actually read Book 1 (Creatus) but I've seen the book blurb, so I got the idea. Eventually, I was drawn to Derrick's world, captivated by his protective, brotherly concern to Janelle, intrigued by his real identity.
There are a lot of things I liked and was glad of in this book.
I'm glad there's no sex scene in the story (a welcomed change after reading a number of erotica lately!)
I'm glad that this is a paranormal book that doesn't involve vampires.
I'm glad that Carmen DeSousa left me imagining and hanging at the end. Yes, I like that feeling of thirsting for more!
Oh, by the way, I also love the cover art, it is simply beautiful!
Creatus: They Exist is the story behind Derrick's "stalkerish" behavoir towards Kristina. I haven't actually read Book 1 (Creatus) but I've seen the book blurb, so I got the idea. Eventually, I was drawn to Derrick's world, captivated by his protective, brotherly concern to Janelle, intrigued by his real identity.
There are a lot of things I liked and was glad of in this book.
I'm glad there's no sex scene in the story (a welcomed change after reading a number of erotica lately!)
I'm glad that this is a paranormal book that doesn't involve vampires.
I'm glad that Carmen DeSousa left me imagining and hanging at the end. Yes, I like that feeling of thirsting for more!
Oh, by the way, I also love the cover art, it is simply beautiful!
April 29, 2014
I love that Carmen DeSousa has written a prequel to this series that I've quickly grown to love. The insight here adds clarity to the relationships of the characters in the first book. But it's definitely not all background and fill-in material. This story has tension and build-up that makes you want to keep turning pages.
If you have already read the first two books in the Creatus Series, this is a fun addition taking us back to how it all began. If you haven't read the series yet, this is the perfect place to start.
If you have already read the first two books in the Creatus Series, this is a fun addition taking us back to how it all began. If you haven't read the series yet, this is the perfect place to start.
January 4, 2015
I like this series very much. I was reading Creatus when my Kindle notified me of this prequel. I had already read the first 20% so reading this went over the same time period but with a different perspective. I am so glad I did. It was an interesting experience. The note from the author at the end cracked me up. So, back to book one - feeling excited!
April 7, 2018
World Building: A-
Mythology: A-
Plot-Twists: A
Villains: B-
Girl Power: C
Guy-Hero: A
Love-Interests: A
Suspense: A+
Feels: A++
For you clean-readers: this book does not have mature content.
Mythology: A-
Plot-Twists: A
Villains: B-
Girl Power: C
Guy-Hero: A
Love-Interests: A
Suspense: A+
Feels: A++
For you clean-readers: this book does not have mature content.
July 4, 2014
Pleasantly surprised! Snagged this freebie book and now I'm hooked!!!!
May 23, 2016
DIVINELY ENTERTAINING !!!
Title: They Exist
Series: Creatus
Author: Carmen DeSousa
Designation: Series Prequel, NOT a Standalone
Reading Platform: Kindle Unlimited
My Rating: FIVE DIVINELY ENTERTAINING STARS*****
Loved, loved, loved it! The Creatus Series is my first time reading the work of Carmen DeSousa but it certainly won't be my last. I began my adventure with DeSousa after downloading Creatus, the first book of the series, when it was offered as a free download on Amazon. I enjoy discovering new authors and what better way to discover new talent without breaking the bank than with a free read, right? I started reading on a Saturday morning and within five minutes, I knew I'd struck gold! I raced back to Amazon and discovered Books Two and Three, Creatus: Rogue and Creatus: Eidolon, had already been released. And the icing on the cake, they were both available under the Kindle Unlimited program. SWEET! By Sunday evening, I had devoured all three books of the series as well as the prequel novella, They Exist, which was included as a bonus in the first book. Now, please allow me to state that this is actually more like a serial since the books should be read in sequence. Although the author does include a fair amount of backstory in each book, I recommend reading the books in order. These stories are not meant to be read as standalone reads. Although each book primarily features a specific couple, there is an interconnected story arc running through the entire series with a recurring cast of characters. I found all of the books to be exciting, thrilling, imaginative, original, suspenseful, romantic, seductive, exceptionally well crafted and edited. The narratives are all beautifully written in the third person with multiple points of view. My favorite! The dialogue is smart, well executed and flows effortlessly. But my favorite component of this remarkable saga is the magnificent cast of characters. They are unique, intriguing, well developed, engaging, relatable and sexy as sin. I not only fell head over heels for the protagonists of each book but I also loved the masterfully depicted antagonists. Nothing is as it seems! Be very careful which antihero you choose to hate; he may very well turn out to be a hero in disguise! And vice versa, of course! Oh my! DeSousa demonstrates her talent as a gifted storyteller by skillfully combining every single one of these elements to craft a masterful supernatural saga filled to the brim with fantasy, danger, drama, action, betrayal, heartache, undeniable love, and enough spine-tingling suspense, shocking plot twists and perplexing mystery to blow your mind! And just when you think you have it all figured out -WHAM - DeSousa hits you with another surprising and totally unexpected piece of the puzzle. Folks, this definitely ISN'T your ordinary romance. This is an extraordinary, suspense filled whodunnit with a delicious side of tantalizing romance - without the calories! OMG! Who knew you could have a sexy romance without the sex? Obviously, Carmen DeSousa did since she just pulled it off magnificently! Once I started reading, I could not stop! I was immediately drawn into the story, glued to my seat, completely lost in time with the hours passing seemingly as minutes while my heart pounded in my chest. It was bloody brilliant! So sit back, my lovelies, get comfy and prepare to meet the Creatus, an alien species who have been living in plain sight among the humans of Earth for the past four thousand years. And you know all those supernatural beings based on myth, well, they just might be real and they may be creatus. Oh my!
This is not a book report nor do I give spoilers in my comments. What I attempt to do is give my humble opinion on the merits of the book itself. When rating and reviewing a book, I always ask myself several questions. First, what did I love about this story? As I stated earlier, all the books were beautifully written, well crafted and well edited with gorgeous covers. The world created by DeSousa for this series was imaginative as well as intelligent. It may have been fantasy but it was totally believable in the realms of science fiction and the supernatural. Oh, did I forget to mention the science fiction part? Well shucks, it's like Donnie and Marie Osmond with their little bit country and little bit rock 'n roll. This series is a little bit paranormal, little bit supernatural, little bit fantasy and a little bit science fiction. It's a divinely delicious all you eat buffet! And the characters were unlike anything I've ever experienced in a previous book. They were unique but fascinating and completely relatable. I cried for them, empathized with them and even laughed at some of their antics. The narratives of each book were fast paced but comfortable. At no point in any of the books was I ever bored or distracted. The pages as well as the time literally flew. I was so engrossed in the story, I even refused to answer my phone. My second question is always, what didn't I like about this story? Truthfully, not a darn thing! Well, other than the fact I didn't want it to end but isn't that true with all great stories? I think so. Third, would I recommend this book? You bet and I am for a wide range of readers including young and mature adult readers. There are a few curse words which I could probably count on one hand for all three books. There is some violence but it's NOT graphically portrayed and has NO gory details. The book is romantic but not erotic. There are NO explicit sex scenes but there are dreamy love scenes. And this is one thing that really surprises me since I generally go for books with more erotic romance and often find myself bored out of my mind without at least a few steamy sex scenes but not so with this series. It never actually occurred to me until I began writing this review. Fourth, will I read this author again? Abso-freakin-lutely! At the end of Book Three, the author offered a sneak peek at the fourth book of the series, Creatus: Animus and believe me when I say, I rushed to her web page to sign up for her newsletter so I'll know when the next book is released. As far as I'm concerned, tomorrow wouldn't be soon enough so bring it on Carmen DeSousa! lol..... And finally, was I entertained? Oh lawd, yes! I was completely captivated and totally entertained! I'm a DeSousa fan for life! Fabulous entertainment and an awesome read!
Title: They Exist
Series: Creatus
Author: Carmen DeSousa
Designation: Series Prequel, NOT a Standalone
Reading Platform: Kindle Unlimited
My Rating: FIVE DIVINELY ENTERTAINING STARS*****
Loved, loved, loved it! The Creatus Series is my first time reading the work of Carmen DeSousa but it certainly won't be my last. I began my adventure with DeSousa after downloading Creatus, the first book of the series, when it was offered as a free download on Amazon. I enjoy discovering new authors and what better way to discover new talent without breaking the bank than with a free read, right? I started reading on a Saturday morning and within five minutes, I knew I'd struck gold! I raced back to Amazon and discovered Books Two and Three, Creatus: Rogue and Creatus: Eidolon, had already been released. And the icing on the cake, they were both available under the Kindle Unlimited program. SWEET! By Sunday evening, I had devoured all three books of the series as well as the prequel novella, They Exist, which was included as a bonus in the first book. Now, please allow me to state that this is actually more like a serial since the books should be read in sequence. Although the author does include a fair amount of backstory in each book, I recommend reading the books in order. These stories are not meant to be read as standalone reads. Although each book primarily features a specific couple, there is an interconnected story arc running through the entire series with a recurring cast of characters. I found all of the books to be exciting, thrilling, imaginative, original, suspenseful, romantic, seductive, exceptionally well crafted and edited. The narratives are all beautifully written in the third person with multiple points of view. My favorite! The dialogue is smart, well executed and flows effortlessly. But my favorite component of this remarkable saga is the magnificent cast of characters. They are unique, intriguing, well developed, engaging, relatable and sexy as sin. I not only fell head over heels for the protagonists of each book but I also loved the masterfully depicted antagonists. Nothing is as it seems! Be very careful which antihero you choose to hate; he may very well turn out to be a hero in disguise! And vice versa, of course! Oh my! DeSousa demonstrates her talent as a gifted storyteller by skillfully combining every single one of these elements to craft a masterful supernatural saga filled to the brim with fantasy, danger, drama, action, betrayal, heartache, undeniable love, and enough spine-tingling suspense, shocking plot twists and perplexing mystery to blow your mind! And just when you think you have it all figured out -WHAM - DeSousa hits you with another surprising and totally unexpected piece of the puzzle. Folks, this definitely ISN'T your ordinary romance. This is an extraordinary, suspense filled whodunnit with a delicious side of tantalizing romance - without the calories! OMG! Who knew you could have a sexy romance without the sex? Obviously, Carmen DeSousa did since she just pulled it off magnificently! Once I started reading, I could not stop! I was immediately drawn into the story, glued to my seat, completely lost in time with the hours passing seemingly as minutes while my heart pounded in my chest. It was bloody brilliant! So sit back, my lovelies, get comfy and prepare to meet the Creatus, an alien species who have been living in plain sight among the humans of Earth for the past four thousand years. And you know all those supernatural beings based on myth, well, they just might be real and they may be creatus. Oh my!
This is not a book report nor do I give spoilers in my comments. What I attempt to do is give my humble opinion on the merits of the book itself. When rating and reviewing a book, I always ask myself several questions. First, what did I love about this story? As I stated earlier, all the books were beautifully written, well crafted and well edited with gorgeous covers. The world created by DeSousa for this series was imaginative as well as intelligent. It may have been fantasy but it was totally believable in the realms of science fiction and the supernatural. Oh, did I forget to mention the science fiction part? Well shucks, it's like Donnie and Marie Osmond with their little bit country and little bit rock 'n roll. This series is a little bit paranormal, little bit supernatural, little bit fantasy and a little bit science fiction. It's a divinely delicious all you eat buffet! And the characters were unlike anything I've ever experienced in a previous book. They were unique but fascinating and completely relatable. I cried for them, empathized with them and even laughed at some of their antics. The narratives of each book were fast paced but comfortable. At no point in any of the books was I ever bored or distracted. The pages as well as the time literally flew. I was so engrossed in the story, I even refused to answer my phone. My second question is always, what didn't I like about this story? Truthfully, not a darn thing! Well, other than the fact I didn't want it to end but isn't that true with all great stories? I think so. Third, would I recommend this book? You bet and I am for a wide range of readers including young and mature adult readers. There are a few curse words which I could probably count on one hand for all three books. There is some violence but it's NOT graphically portrayed and has NO gory details. The book is romantic but not erotic. There are NO explicit sex scenes but there are dreamy love scenes. And this is one thing that really surprises me since I generally go for books with more erotic romance and often find myself bored out of my mind without at least a few steamy sex scenes but not so with this series. It never actually occurred to me until I began writing this review. Fourth, will I read this author again? Abso-freakin-lutely! At the end of Book Three, the author offered a sneak peek at the fourth book of the series, Creatus: Animus and believe me when I say, I rushed to her web page to sign up for her newsletter so I'll know when the next book is released. As far as I'm concerned, tomorrow wouldn't be soon enough so bring it on Carmen DeSousa! lol..... And finally, was I entertained? Oh lawd, yes! I was completely captivated and totally entertained! I'm a DeSousa fan for life! Fabulous entertainment and an awesome read!
November 26, 2014
Creatus,pic
I grabbed this book as an introduction to the Creatus novel series that I had read about which mixes elements of mystery, romance, suspense and a touch of the supernatural. The action in this prequel takes place fourteen years before Book One and is intended to develop the characters and fill in some gaps in the story line.
While there is no overt sex or graphic violence, the protagonist named Kris witnesses her mother being stabbed to death, and experiments with drugs and sex in her quest to find herself. For this reason, I would not recommend the book for younger teens. Derrick Ashton, her hero, is a Creatus, one of a species almost wiped out by humans. He struggles to fulfill his destiny as an overseer, while feeling a tremendous pull to be a “watcher” protecting this young human girl even though it is forbidden by his kind. Derrick cannot explain why he feels compelled to be her Dark Angel though he knows his destiny and a mate has already been chosen for him. Here we have two main characters struggling to overcome their demons and find their niche in the world. Derrick cannot help himself and Kris cannot control her destructive behavior. Every time she is at the point of self-destruction, she feels the presence of her Dark Angel. Fans of other books in the series will want to read this novella to round out the Creatus experience.
The author draws the reader in with the skillfully developed plot and imbues the reader with the conflict and torment the characters are experiencing. There is a nice balance of story elements including the right combination of mystery, suspense, and paranormal presenting an interesting drama. Fans of all three genres will enjoy the novella. Older teens will identify with Kris and her struggles to find her way.
July 1, 2015
INTERESTING AND MYSTERIOUS!!
Creatus is about a race of being who have been around for over 4 thousand years. They use to protect mankind but now are forbidden to be in contact with them . Derrick Ashton is studying for his Ph.D in internal medicine. He meets another student Janelle and thinks he has fallen in love with her but she is a human. Janelle is robbed and murders while taking her 8yr. old daughter Kristina for ice cream. You find out that Kristian isn't really her daughter but her sister. After there parents were killed by a drunk driver Janelle wants to keep her baby sister with her and she pretends to the authorities that she is Kristina's mother and that her father and mother was raising Kristian as there own becasue Janelle was only 17. Derrick is watching over the growing Kristian to protect her. This part didn't make a lot of sense. His parents wanted to adopt her but Derrick thought it best to let her live a human life in foster care!! Now that was stupid and irresponsible. No one comes out of foster care in unharmed by either the people they live with or the system. The age timeline in the story is very confusing. are they 4 thousand yrs old and look like they are 20 to 35 or is there race 4 thousand years old. The story was OK the suspense as to who the Creatus are was OK. It was very ad when Janelle was murdered and poor Kristina was life all alone in life. There is enough in this prequel for me to read book 1 Which is Derrick and Kristina's story. I want to see what happen and how they wine up falling in love. When Derrick was sure he loved Janelle! and here is a 3rd person love interest. Tori a women who is in love with Derrick and she should be his soul mate. She is a Creatus too and the family's want them together!!
Creatus is about a race of being who have been around for over 4 thousand years. They use to protect mankind but now are forbidden to be in contact with them . Derrick Ashton is studying for his Ph.D in internal medicine. He meets another student Janelle and thinks he has fallen in love with her but she is a human. Janelle is robbed and murders while taking her 8yr. old daughter Kristina for ice cream. You find out that Kristian isn't really her daughter but her sister. After there parents were killed by a drunk driver Janelle wants to keep her baby sister with her and she pretends to the authorities that she is Kristina's mother and that her father and mother was raising Kristian as there own becasue Janelle was only 17. Derrick is watching over the growing Kristian to protect her. This part didn't make a lot of sense. His parents wanted to adopt her but Derrick thought it best to let her live a human life in foster care!! Now that was stupid and irresponsible. No one comes out of foster care in unharmed by either the people they live with or the system. The age timeline in the story is very confusing. are they 4 thousand yrs old and look like they are 20 to 35 or is there race 4 thousand years old. The story was OK the suspense as to who the Creatus are was OK. It was very ad when Janelle was murdered and poor Kristina was life all alone in life. There is enough in this prequel for me to read book 1 Which is Derrick and Kristina's story. I want to see what happen and how they wine up falling in love. When Derrick was sure he loved Janelle! and here is a 3rd person love interest. Tori a women who is in love with Derrick and she should be his soul mate. She is a Creatus too and the family's want them together!!
April 19, 2016
I have to admit that the cover is the reason I gave this book a second glance. It was intriguing. Then the synopsis had me rushing over to Amazon to check on price. Free! Yep, I was going to give it a try.
This is a story of a those with paranormal skills hidden among us though they remain reserved among their own. But one encounters a human woman who is more than just attractive. He sees a beauty within as well. But a tragic attack at night has him interfering in human lives when it is strictly forbidden. Leaving her dead, he is able to save her younger sister and embarks on a self-appointed journey of shadowing the child as she grows. It is not easy to try to save the life of a teen who is hell bent on self-destruction while your own kind try to stop you.
This was a well-written book that had me hooked though it did not go down the path I first thought it would. The writer kept me guessing and brought about many surprises which kept me on my toes.
The characters were also well-done. I loved the young girl who struggles with the memories of that tragic night and a life of living in the foster care system. She is crying out to the world, but the world just keeps pushing her aside. I think her development was excellent.
A great read. If you like paranormal with emotion and little bit of obsession, this is the book for you. Looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
Note: I received this book through my own accord with no expectation of a positive review.
August 26, 2015
Free download. Wow, I've been waiting to read this but I have no clue why, this was a beautiful story and I can't wait to continue Derrick and Kris' story. Derrick is creatus, not human. When he meets Janelle he feels different. He's not supposed to feel anything for a human, he's supposed to fall for a creatus woman and when he falls, he'll fall but Janelle makes him feel. Like nobody has ever made him feel, he knows that nothing can come of it but he feels protective of her and her 8 year old daughter Kristina. When tragedy strikes Derrick is crushed but will this be the catalyst that brings him to his hearts most desire?
This story is so lovely, I actually had tears at one point, it brought heart to a story that was realistic even though it's not possible. I love Derrick as a character, he's powerful, protective and beautiful. He doesn't hold back his feelings and jumps with his whole self. You can't help but empathise with Janelle, Derrick & Kris. This story, plot, writing and characters are great. There's so much angst but lots of lovely, sweet beautiful moments. I would highly recommend this story to everybody who enjoys romantic, beautiful paranormal stories.
This story is so lovely, I actually had tears at one point, it brought heart to a story that was realistic even though it's not possible. I love Derrick as a character, he's powerful, protective and beautiful. He doesn't hold back his feelings and jumps with his whole self. You can't help but empathise with Janelle, Derrick & Kris. This story, plot, writing and characters are great. There's so much angst but lots of lovely, sweet beautiful moments. I would highly recommend this story to everybody who enjoys romantic, beautiful paranormal stories.
July 14, 2015
3.8 stars
Not too bad and different than a lot of this type of book. Pretty well written and mostly interesting, Wouldn't say it's actually dragging on but could be a little faster paced on places and a tiny bit more interesting, plus we don't find out Mich at all about the vampires if that's what they even are...see the books over and we still don't find out what the check they even are or what they can even do besides go out on day light. I know the author must want them to be kind of mysterious but I'd have liked to know a bit more about them by now! Like I said the first books done and a I know is a bunch are doctors and they can't get involved with humans oh and the mature very slow which is new for a vampire at least the ones I have read so far which are quite a few.
Not too bad and different than a lot of this type of book. Pretty well written and mostly interesting, Wouldn't say it's actually dragging on but could be a little faster paced on places and a tiny bit more interesting, plus we don't find out Mich at all about the vampires if that's what they even are...see the books over and we still don't find out what the check they even are or what they can even do besides go out on day light. I know the author must want them to be kind of mysterious but I'd have liked to know a bit more about them by now! Like I said the first books done and a I know is a bunch are doctors and they can't get involved with humans oh and the mature very slow which is new for a vampire at least the ones I have read so far which are quite a few.
November 24, 2015
I started reading this book and then ended up buying Book 2 and the Boxed Set, somehow by accident. Anyway, I like these books. I spent the first book trying to figure out what the creatus were and then the other books enjoying the characters. There are a few things that bug me for instance "falling", I'm not a big romance reader these days so it just annoys me more than anything. I like this book because it is not pornographic or revolve around sex. I like the character development and the interactions of the characters as well as the storylines. I feel it is more of a series instead of stand alone novels. She could literally write books every week and it could continue like a soap opera indefinitely. Carmen is a great story teller. I recommend reading these books if you are a fantasy/sci-fi lover.
February 7, 2017
I can't give a full review, as I didn't actually finish it. I did try, though, trust me; seeing as I got it free from Goodreads First Reads, I felt obligated to complete and review the book. Unfortunately, I couldn't get into the story.
Three chapters in and I was distinctly uncomfortable with Derrick and his instant obsession with Janelle. And while that seems to be a popular theme when it comes to supernatural romance stories, this particular relationship was setting off my "creeper alert" on an alarming level.
The writing style wasn't really my cup of tea, either, though that may have been influenced by the story matter.
Three chapters in and I was distinctly uncomfortable with Derrick and his instant obsession with Janelle. And while that seems to be a popular theme when it comes to supernatural romance stories, this particular relationship was setting off my "creeper alert" on an alarming level.
The writing style wasn't really my cup of tea, either, though that may have been influenced by the story matter.
October 30, 2014
The Beginning: Creatus ( they exists) The Prequel By Carmen Desousa
I've read every book in this series, it's one of my favorite series. I like that Carmen wrote a prequel it gives me more insight about the characters beginnings. If you haven't read any of this series, this is a great one to start with. Strong characters that are consistent through the whole series. The author writes flawlessly from one book to the next. I believe there could be Creatus out there, you'll see what I mean when you read this series. The characters are so real, the settings are clear in your mind, you feel like you get a feel for Boston. I highly recommend this series.
I've read every book in this series, it's one of my favorite series. I like that Carmen wrote a prequel it gives me more insight about the characters beginnings. If you haven't read any of this series, this is a great one to start with. Strong characters that are consistent through the whole series. The author writes flawlessly from one book to the next. I believe there could be Creatus out there, you'll see what I mean when you read this series. The characters are so real, the settings are clear in your mind, you feel like you get a feel for Boston. I highly recommend this series.
December 7, 2014
I thoroughly enjoyed this well written and intriguing prequel to the Creatus series - so much that I bought the box set...I need to know what happens next.
This tale was cleverly done, with just the right amount of mystery to keep me reading. I loved the concept and look forward to the interesting mix of fantasy, science fiction and 'reality'.
I have kept this vague because I don't give spoilers.
Overall, a great read with an interesting 'something different'.
Recommended if you are prepared to want more.
This tale was cleverly done, with just the right amount of mystery to keep me reading. I loved the concept and look forward to the interesting mix of fantasy, science fiction and 'reality'.
I have kept this vague because I don't give spoilers.
Overall, a great read with an interesting 'something different'.
Recommended if you are prepared to want more.
April 13, 2015
Unlike a lot of other reviewers I actually started reading this series with the prequel. I thought it was a great introduction to a different type of story and makes me very interested to read the series. Derreck was a little obsessive but I can understand why given his strong friendship with Janelle plus the fact that Derreck kind of blames himself since he should've been there when they were getting ice cream. I found the introduction of the Creatus to be very enthralling and it definitely make me want to pick up the first book to see if my interest continues to be peaked.
December 30, 2016
Disclaimer: I read this book in the bundle (1-5).
I should have reviewed the book as I read them. Instead now they tend to blend into each other. Still...this book was a good opening for the series and while people often skip prequels, I would advise not to in this case.
Warning: The book ends with a cliffhanger but since I had the whole series, it didn't feel like one. I just moved to book two. I believe I would have continued anyway. I love aliens and while this would not actually fit in the sci fi genre, it did satisfy my hunger for them.
I should have reviewed the book as I read them. Instead now they tend to blend into each other. Still...this book was a good opening for the series and while people often skip prequels, I would advise not to in this case.
Warning: The book ends with a cliffhanger but since I had the whole series, it didn't feel like one. I just moved to book two. I believe I would have continued anyway. I love aliens and while this would not actually fit in the sci fi genre, it did satisfy my hunger for them.
July 10, 2014
I finished this book long time ago. I really liked this book. It was much different than her "Happily Ever After" books. Of course it is a prequel and she does a good job not only giving you a bit of the back story of Creatus. There always seems to be a no no in stories like this between someone not quite human and a human. It maes you wonder why. Maybe when I read the next book, I'll find out.
June 1, 2015
I would recommend that you read this book first as well as getting the rest of the Creatus Series. Carmen DeSousa is one of my favorite authors. I was hooked when I read She Belongs to Me, and the Pit Stop, therefore when I noticed the Creatus Series, I downloaded it. This is one author's books that would keep your attention until the very last page. She wrote stories that expertly blend romance with mystery and a good dash of paranormal/suspense. I'm hooked.
October 23, 2015
This is the first book in the series that I've read. I know this is supposed to be a background story, but it can stand on it's own. The characters are interesting, definitely not an insta- love thing. The story moves along well. Without any background knowledge of the story I found determining Derrick's identity a bit of a mystery. I also liked Janelle's skepticism when meeting Derrick. I will be continuing the series.
January 27, 2016
Just didn't grab me
The first two chapters of the series in the back of this prequel was more entertaining than the prequel. It's interesting back ground story of why Derrick was so obsessed with Kristina. But it didn't answer any questions about what a creatus is. Too much mystery in trying to figure out the unspoken. Writing is descent. Clean read.
The first two chapters of the series in the back of this prequel was more entertaining than the prequel. It's interesting back ground story of why Derrick was so obsessed with Kristina. But it didn't answer any questions about what a creatus is. Too much mystery in trying to figure out the unspoken. Writing is descent. Clean read.
October 4, 2016
This was just a prologue to the Creatus story. I thought Derrick would get together with Janelle, but it seems he'll fall for her "daughter". She doesn't do well with drugs so,I wonder if she's different too
Want to read
June 20, 2014Free 06-20-14 (fantasy / PNR prequel)
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JQQ3BNM?i...
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JQQ3BNM?i...
November 23, 2016
Very good read it is a prequel so I didn't expect much in the story but the characters were developed well and o didn't have a problem understanding the history or the story
October 27, 2024
Loved this and can't wait to start the series. Though it doesn't go into exactly what Derrick is, it didn't matter to me. I'm assuming I'll find out when I continue the series.
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