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The Cities Below #4
Sheltered
When the enemy is your mind, there is no escape.
Bette feared the city, and for good reason. Valenna had become corrupt, targeting citizens with any substantial amount of wealth or power to their name. Her self-imposed solitary confinement caused her to lose track of time, and her sanity. She could no longer live this way. Only three solutions allow Valenna to dictate her fate, die in the sun, or flee to the fabled city of peace. Bette ran.
Rollin was a Guardian. His job defined his life, the man he'd become, and his core beliefs. Everything he did was in service to the city of Balinese and the citizens within. When a terrified female crashed into his arms, begging for help, he did not hesitate. Everyone and everything seemed to frighten her, except Rollin. He took her home, and once safe under his protection, she began to flourish.
Problem was, in her plea for sanctuary, she claimed a demon chased her toward Balinese, but none had been found. His affection for her grows rapidly, as does his concern over her lie. Then, the arrival of a demon forces Rollin to question his beliefs, his place among the royal family, and the motives of the woman he so lovingly sheltered.
Bette feared the city, and for good reason. Valenna had become corrupt, targeting citizens with any substantial amount of wealth or power to their name. Her self-imposed solitary confinement caused her to lose track of time, and her sanity. She could no longer live this way. Only three solutions allow Valenna to dictate her fate, die in the sun, or flee to the fabled city of peace. Bette ran.
Rollin was a Guardian. His job defined his life, the man he'd become, and his core beliefs. Everything he did was in service to the city of Balinese and the citizens within. When a terrified female crashed into his arms, begging for help, he did not hesitate. Everyone and everything seemed to frighten her, except Rollin. He took her home, and once safe under his protection, she began to flourish.
Problem was, in her plea for sanctuary, she claimed a demon chased her toward Balinese, but none had been found. His affection for her grows rapidly, as does his concern over her lie. Then, the arrival of a demon forces Rollin to question his beliefs, his place among the royal family, and the motives of the woman he so lovingly sheltered.
265 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 9, 2025
2 people are currently reading
134 people want to read
About the author
Jen Colly
6 books278 followersJen Colly is the rare case of an author who rebelled against reading assignments throughout her school years. Now she prefers reading books in a series, which has led her to writing her first paranormal romance series The Cities Below. She will write about anything that catches her fancy, though truth be told, her weaknesses are pirates and vampires. She lives in Ohio with her supportive husband, two kids, and four rescued cats.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
January 6, 2018
Sheltered by Jen Colly is book Four in "The Cities Below" series. This is the story of Bette Dautry and Rollin Casteel.
Both Bette and Rolling have secrets that they at first try to keep from the other. But they are both drawn to each other so much that Rollin isn't willing to let her go. Bette is even rethinking what she though she would get from Rollin.
I really enjoyed their story and the books I have read in this series. I do think you can make this a standalone book if you choose to do so.
Both Bette and Rolling have secrets that they at first try to keep from the other. But they are both drawn to each other so much that Rollin isn't willing to let her go. Bette is even rethinking what she though she would get from Rollin.
I really enjoyed their story and the books I have read in this series. I do think you can make this a standalone book if you choose to do so.
December 14, 2017
3.5 stars !
This was a pleasant read, but it's plot was a little bland compared to it's previous book. Don't take me wrong, the MC's were good and had a lot of potential, but there were hardly any bumps along the way, so I felt pretty incomplete when the book got over.
So,we have Balinese guardian Rollin who's been a protector all his life and has had to grow up faster because of excruciating circumstances. He's been raised by his adoptive mom Cat (damn, she's bad-ass !!) along with 4 other kids whom he loves as his own. Bette, is a aristocratic vampire from another city, Valenna, which has been dominated by their evil Queen (or Lady in this case) and it's Captain (oohh, the Lady and Captain are doing the dirty !!!). Her parents have been killed and the guardians have been wanting to mark and mate her for the money. So, she's locked herself in the house for around 10 years. She has nothing to live for and apparently the sun calls to her (which means death, of course). But whatever ! So, she thinks she can seduce a man, and maybe get preggers, so that the bond of love between her child and her would save her. But, that she will fall for the said man, was unexpected (only by her, of course!).
I liked to read about how protective Rollin was about everyone, specially Bette. He was patient and sweet. The banter within the guardians was fun and it was fascinating how they were all loyal as a unit. We got glimpses of Rollin's siblings,Cat and Navarre and some of their drama. Let me tell you, Cat and Navarre are simply phenomenal. I loved that Cat was blood thirsty !! Just the women for me !! And that damn pet panther ??? Oh my Gawd !! I want me a pet panther !
Bette is all sophisticated and understands more about Rollin than his own family. The scenes between them were adorable. They are great for each other..Blah blah blah..All this is really sweet, but where is the action??? I would have loved to see some guardian action, some villains with evil intentions, some betrayal, some heartbreak.. Sigh!! For all the hype about the bad Lady of Valenna, she is hardly in the picture.. Like I said, everything was very vanilla in this book.
Thank you NetGalley and Kensington Books for the ARC in exchange for my honest review
This was a pleasant read, but it's plot was a little bland compared to it's previous book. Don't take me wrong, the MC's were good and had a lot of potential, but there were hardly any bumps along the way, so I felt pretty incomplete when the book got over.
So,we have Balinese guardian Rollin who's been a protector all his life and has had to grow up faster because of excruciating circumstances. He's been raised by his adoptive mom Cat (damn, she's bad-ass !!) along with 4 other kids whom he loves as his own. Bette, is a aristocratic vampire from another city, Valenna, which has been dominated by their evil Queen (or Lady in this case) and it's Captain (oohh, the Lady and Captain are doing the dirty !!!). Her parents have been killed and the guardians have been wanting to mark and mate her for the money. So, she's locked herself in the house for around 10 years. She has nothing to live for and apparently the sun calls to her (which means death, of course). But whatever ! So, she thinks she can seduce a man, and maybe get preggers, so that the bond of love between her child and her would save her. But, that she will fall for the said man, was unexpected (only by her, of course!).
I liked to read about how protective Rollin was about everyone, specially Bette. He was patient and sweet. The banter within the guardians was fun and it was fascinating how they were all loyal as a unit. We got glimpses of Rollin's siblings,Cat and Navarre and some of their drama. Let me tell you, Cat and Navarre are simply phenomenal. I loved that Cat was blood thirsty !! Just the women for me !! And that damn pet panther ??? Oh my Gawd !! I want me a pet panther !
Bette is all sophisticated and understands more about Rollin than his own family. The scenes between them were adorable. They are great for each other..Blah blah blah..All this is really sweet, but where is the action??? I would have loved to see some guardian action, some villains with evil intentions, some betrayal, some heartbreak.. Sigh!! For all the hype about the bad Lady of Valenna, she is hardly in the picture.. Like I said, everything was very vanilla in this book.
Thank you NetGalley and Kensington Books for the ARC in exchange for my honest review
January 4, 2018
The Cities Below takes place in an altered world that the author brings to vivid life and really makes it easy for the readers picture each and every scene. Her world includes vampires and demons that she has created with a bit of unique flair and her characters are strong and vibrant which ensures that readers want to know every last detail of the story as they become completely caught up in the story.
Sheltered is full of sweet romance with some very heated passion to heat up the pages and emotional turbulence that grabs readers by their hearts which of course keeps things interesting as the story is also full of suspense and a few twists to keep readers guessing.
First, Bette has a secret agenda and Rollin is keeping secrets, both have good solid reasons for doing so, but they are emotional reasons, so this keeps readers on the edge as they await the final outcome of this romance. There is also some drama and conflict among other characters in the book that adds depth and helps to pull readers deeper into this fascinating world.
As with each and every visit to The Cities Below, I found that I was completely caught up in the book from the very beginning and I am looking forward to my next visit. Jen Colly’s world has some unique qualities that have me recommending that you read the books in order, only so that you more understand the intricacies of her world but they can be read as standalone as well.
Sheltered is full of sweet romance with some very heated passion to heat up the pages and emotional turbulence that grabs readers by their hearts which of course keeps things interesting as the story is also full of suspense and a few twists to keep readers guessing.
First, Bette has a secret agenda and Rollin is keeping secrets, both have good solid reasons for doing so, but they are emotional reasons, so this keeps readers on the edge as they await the final outcome of this romance. There is also some drama and conflict among other characters in the book that adds depth and helps to pull readers deeper into this fascinating world.
As with each and every visit to The Cities Below, I found that I was completely caught up in the book from the very beginning and I am looking forward to my next visit. Jen Colly’s world has some unique qualities that have me recommending that you read the books in order, only so that you more understand the intricacies of her world but they can be read as standalone as well.
January 4, 2018
I'm kind of on the fence about how I feel about this book. Really, nothing much at all happens here. But even so, it wasn't bad. The thing is, I'm not sure I'm okay with the relationship in this one. Rollin and Bette just never seemed to click for me. Number one, their age difference is HUGE. So Bette has so much more life experience and such than Rollin does. Then there's Bette's mental state. I'll be kind of blunt. She has series issues. One of which is her desire to trap a Guardian into mating her so that she can have her own protector, and eventually a child. So while I can certainly see how one could fall for Rollin, with her, I'm not sure it's love or if it's the safety and security he provides her. As for Rollin, let's face it, he's a child in that world no matter his age. Bette is the first women he's ever gotten close to considering his family ties, should I really expect him to know what real love is? Especially when she is not his fated mate.
Bette's life in her city has become a nightmare and she is definitely losing her grip on sanity. It's so bad that the sun calls to her often. To protect herself from having a mating mark forced upon her (because of her station there), she locks herself into her own home. She's tormented by people outside her door and only maybe once a month a friend is able to bring something to eat. I have an issue with something there. How does locking her door actually give her a sense of protection? Her people can take spirit form and literally slip thru solid objects. If somebody really wanted to claim her, I honestly think it wouldn't be that hard. The only thing she can think of that would diminish the call of the sun would be if she had a child. And then by the time the child is grown and on it's own, she's hoping she would have grown to love her mate. So with luck on her side one night, she manages to escape and flees for Balinese in the hopes of seducing a Guardian.
It's been two years since the end of the last book. Rollin has become a full fledged guardian and moved out on his own. Though he does still see Cat every morning. He worries about his siblings, two more than the others, and Cat is close to giving birth to her own. He loves his city and seems pretty happy. He's on shift the night that Bette comes running up to the doors, and even though he doesn't believe her story he takes her in.
From that moment the two of them are rarely apart. Bette's traumas affect everything in her life it seems and she only finds solace when she is with Rollin. And sometimes that's barely enough to calm her. Rollin craves to be needed and Bette definitely needs him. So he takes it upon himself to care for he and try to help her feel safe there. There is an undeniable attraction between the two of them, but I don't know how I would actually define it. It really doesn't take long for the two of them to fall in love with the other. But Bette has kept a lot of truths from Rollin and Navarre also has a huge surprise in store. Add to that the two of them are not fated mates, and it's a lot to deal with. Even for Rollin. But in the end, Bette comes clean and the two of them still decide to be together.
There are other things thrown in here and there. A guardian is helping demons into the city, there are guardians fighting for money, and a couple other things. One of the biggest things would have to be a decision that Navarre has made. One I think can't possibly go over well in the future . I don't know if we'll even find out anyway, but I hope Navarre knows what he's doing. And Rollin's brother (can't remember his name) has left the city on a hunt for a certain demon.
Honestly, my favorite part was the epilogue. I am beyond intrigued by the stalker lord and want to know more about him!
ARC provided by publisher via Netgalley.
Bette's life in her city has become a nightmare and she is definitely losing her grip on sanity. It's so bad that the sun calls to her often. To protect herself from having a mating mark forced upon her (because of her station there), she locks herself into her own home. She's tormented by people outside her door and only maybe once a month a friend is able to bring something to eat. I have an issue with something there. How does locking her door actually give her a sense of protection? Her people can take spirit form and literally slip thru solid objects. If somebody really wanted to claim her, I honestly think it wouldn't be that hard. The only thing she can think of that would diminish the call of the sun would be if she had a child. And then by the time the child is grown and on it's own, she's hoping she would have grown to love her mate. So with luck on her side one night, she manages to escape and flees for Balinese in the hopes of seducing a Guardian.
It's been two years since the end of the last book. Rollin has become a full fledged guardian and moved out on his own. Though he does still see Cat every morning. He worries about his siblings, two more than the others, and Cat is close to giving birth to her own. He loves his city and seems pretty happy. He's on shift the night that Bette comes running up to the doors, and even though he doesn't believe her story he takes her in.
From that moment the two of them are rarely apart. Bette's traumas affect everything in her life it seems and she only finds solace when she is with Rollin. And sometimes that's barely enough to calm her. Rollin craves to be needed and Bette definitely needs him. So he takes it upon himself to care for he and try to help her feel safe there. There is an undeniable attraction between the two of them, but I don't know how I would actually define it. It really doesn't take long for the two of them to fall in love with the other. But Bette has kept a lot of truths from Rollin and Navarre also has a huge surprise in store. Add to that the two of them are not fated mates, and it's a lot to deal with. Even for Rollin. But in the end, Bette comes clean and the two of them still decide to be together.
There are other things thrown in here and there. A guardian is helping demons into the city, there are guardians fighting for money, and a couple other things. One of the biggest things would have to be a decision that Navarre has made. One I think can't possibly go over well in the future . I don't know if we'll even find out anyway, but I hope Navarre knows what he's doing. And Rollin's brother (can't remember his name) has left the city on a hunt for a certain demon.
Honestly, my favorite part was the epilogue. I am beyond intrigued by the stalker lord and want to know more about him!
ARC provided by publisher via Netgalley.
October 30, 2017
Format: kindle ebook
Tissue warning: nope
HEA: cliffhanger
Triggers: none
Narrative: 3rd person, following any and everybody
My reviewer rating: 3 out of 5
Recommend read: yes
Published: January 9, 2018
Thank you, Netgalley and the author Jen Colly, for the ARC of Sheltered #4 in exchange for my honest-to-goodness review.
I knew beforehand that I was receiving part of a series, but I hoped I wouldn't need the other stories to understand this one. And I was okay there. I didn't need to have read the others. But I will need to read the next one! The ending was awful. Only because I haven't had a cliffhanger in a while. I am used to books where things come together in the end, and this just leaves me all flailing and wanting.
I will recommend this, especially for those who've already been following The Cities Below series. I will even recommend this for those who love to read paranormal romance with no hard sex.
The two MAIN characters in this installment are Rollin and Bette (Betty? or Bett? I don't know. I used Bett in my head like Bette Midler).
Being that this is a vampire paranormal with some demons thrown in for good measure, I will say that at least these vampires aren't cliche.
Nobody sparkles.
Nobody has super human strength (I don't think).
They are warm-blooded and breathe for needing to actually have breath in their lungs.
So there's that as a plus side.
Downside is that it reads like you're watching a daytime soap. I'm thrown in, reading about this mad woman in her home, talking to herself. There's vampire Guardians inviting demons into their homeland secretly. There's other vampires and stalkers and I really only want to follow Bette and Rollin. I could have read what's going on with the others in a subtler way rather than dedicating whole chapters to these side plots. Maybe they will be used for later installments, but it was confusing for me.
I think that Rollin and Bette are cute together; I just believe that everything with them moved way too quickly. I have a feeling after reading the Sheltered that the town of Balinese, where Bette meets Rollin, that everyone is catered to? I don't know. She is offered all these things, and Rollin wants to provide for her after only have known her for half a day. It's surreal. (actually, it's paranormal, but who am I to judge?)
That's about as far as I can go without spoiling anything.
Tissue warning: nope
HEA: cliffhanger
Triggers: none
Narrative: 3rd person, following any and everybody
My reviewer rating: 3 out of 5
Recommend read: yes
Published: January 9, 2018
Thank you, Netgalley and the author Jen Colly, for the ARC of Sheltered #4 in exchange for my honest-to-goodness review.
I knew beforehand that I was receiving part of a series, but I hoped I wouldn't need the other stories to understand this one. And I was okay there. I didn't need to have read the others. But I will need to read the next one! The ending was awful. Only because I haven't had a cliffhanger in a while. I am used to books where things come together in the end, and this just leaves me all flailing and wanting.
I will recommend this, especially for those who've already been following The Cities Below series. I will even recommend this for those who love to read paranormal romance with no hard sex.
The two MAIN characters in this installment are Rollin and Bette (Betty? or Bett? I don't know. I used Bett in my head like Bette Midler).
Being that this is a vampire paranormal with some demons thrown in for good measure, I will say that at least these vampires aren't cliche.
Nobody sparkles.
Nobody has super human strength (I don't think).
They are warm-blooded and breathe for needing to actually have breath in their lungs.
So there's that as a plus side.
Downside is that it reads like you're watching a daytime soap. I'm thrown in, reading about this mad woman in her home, talking to herself. There's vampire Guardians inviting demons into their homeland secretly. There's other vampires and stalkers and I really only want to follow Bette and Rollin. I could have read what's going on with the others in a subtler way rather than dedicating whole chapters to these side plots. Maybe they will be used for later installments, but it was confusing for me.
I think that Rollin and Bette are cute together; I just believe that everything with them moved way too quickly. I have a feeling after reading the Sheltered that the town of Balinese, where Bette meets Rollin, that everyone is catered to? I don't know. She is offered all these things, and Rollin wants to provide for her after only have known her for half a day. It's surreal. (actually, it's paranormal, but who am I to judge?)
That's about as far as I can go without spoiling anything.
December 27, 2017
As always, Jen Colly has done a beautiful job building a world that is full of exciting characters, a swiftly moving plot, and a hint at continued mystery to come! While I can't say this one was my favorite, it was still a story I finished in just a few days, and that is saying something during the busy holiday season.
A prisoner in her own home since the death of her parents almost ten years ago, Bette Dautry has finally broken free from her cage. Knowing that her life is coming to an end, as she feels the pull of the deadly sun, she desperately seeks a mate to allow her one of her two dreams in life - to conceive a child. She runs straight to Balinese, a haven for all who need refuge, and into the arms of a Guardian named Rollin. Young and with an instinct to protect, Rollin instantly knows he must keep Bette safe from whatever is frightening her so badly. Taking her into his home, he soon finds himself falling in love with her. However, Bette knows that association with her could ruin his future, and she has doubts that her original plan is worth sacrificing the dreams of the man she has grown to love.
Let me just say - the romance in this book is literally heart-wrenching, and I had a difficult time separating myself from the emotions it dug up within me. Bette was a poor soul who just wanted a child, no matter the cost, but she was such a good person at heart that she couldn't bring herself to ruin Rollin. Rollin was your ultimate protector, ensuring that no one harmed Bette, including herself. Their love seemed doomed from the start, but it ended up being fated. My one issue was the emphasis on their age difference. While they are vampires and thus don't look their age, Bette was hundreds of years old and looked 35, while Rollin was 22 and looked it. Multiple characters brought up the age difference, including Bette, in a way that began to make me a bit uncomfortable. It felt like she was taking advantage of his youth at times, and it was borderline for me in damaging the romance I felt from them. Thankfully, Jen Colly made them so loving towards each other that it transcended any misgivings I had initially.
I can't tell you how excited I am to read the next book in the series. Jen, I need Jovan's book soon and I hope it's next! I just love the taste you've given us of the love between him and Maeryn. I'm craving more of The Cities Below.
**I received a free copy from the author and this is my honest review.**
A prisoner in her own home since the death of her parents almost ten years ago, Bette Dautry has finally broken free from her cage. Knowing that her life is coming to an end, as she feels the pull of the deadly sun, she desperately seeks a mate to allow her one of her two dreams in life - to conceive a child. She runs straight to Balinese, a haven for all who need refuge, and into the arms of a Guardian named Rollin. Young and with an instinct to protect, Rollin instantly knows he must keep Bette safe from whatever is frightening her so badly. Taking her into his home, he soon finds himself falling in love with her. However, Bette knows that association with her could ruin his future, and she has doubts that her original plan is worth sacrificing the dreams of the man she has grown to love.
Let me just say - the romance in this book is literally heart-wrenching, and I had a difficult time separating myself from the emotions it dug up within me. Bette was a poor soul who just wanted a child, no matter the cost, but she was such a good person at heart that she couldn't bring herself to ruin Rollin. Rollin was your ultimate protector, ensuring that no one harmed Bette, including herself. Their love seemed doomed from the start, but it ended up being fated. My one issue was the emphasis on their age difference. While they are vampires and thus don't look their age, Bette was hundreds of years old and looked 35, while Rollin was 22 and looked it. Multiple characters brought up the age difference, including Bette, in a way that began to make me a bit uncomfortable. It felt like she was taking advantage of his youth at times, and it was borderline for me in damaging the romance I felt from them. Thankfully, Jen Colly made them so loving towards each other that it transcended any misgivings I had initially.
I can't tell you how excited I am to read the next book in the series. Jen, I need Jovan's book soon and I hope it's next! I just love the taste you've given us of the love between him and Maeryn. I'm craving more of The Cities Below.
**I received a free copy from the author and this is my honest review.**
January 7, 2018
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a voluntarily and honest opinion.
Bette is basically the last of "royalty" in her city. It is a city that has fallen dark. She basically lives behind doors because of those that would marry her just to gain her fortune and once she marries she doesn't necessarily need to live. For a Vampire to feel this hopeless, she thinks about ending it all....by walking into the light. She decides she must leave this city....
Bette gets help fleeing the city and arrives at the city where Rollin is a guardian. She tells him and his fellow guardian that demons have been pursuing her and Rollin vows to protect her.
Rollin has suspicions though. He can tell that Bette is not telling him everything and wonders what she is hiding. There is a definite attraction between them but can he trust her? Does she have an agenda?
Bette is feeling confused because she finds herself starting to feel for Rollin. This wasn't part of the plan when she fled her city. Why does Rollin run hot and cold?
Along with this, there is danger in the city...
Will they find the trust they need to love?
This book was very different. The Vampires lived in "cities below" and I did wonder at some point id there were cities above where the humans lived or if it were more of a post apocaliptic type of thing. The question was never really answered for me but that aside I really liked the story.
Rollin is such a humble guy. His "father" is royalty but you would never know this by his demeanor. He is just a hard working man who believes in carrying his own weight in life. Bette, I don't think she had a mean bone in her body basically. She'd not really had any kind of life since her parents death and just wanted a chance to live, a chance at some type of happiness.
Bette is basically the last of "royalty" in her city. It is a city that has fallen dark. She basically lives behind doors because of those that would marry her just to gain her fortune and once she marries she doesn't necessarily need to live. For a Vampire to feel this hopeless, she thinks about ending it all....by walking into the light. She decides she must leave this city....
Bette gets help fleeing the city and arrives at the city where Rollin is a guardian. She tells him and his fellow guardian that demons have been pursuing her and Rollin vows to protect her.
Rollin has suspicions though. He can tell that Bette is not telling him everything and wonders what she is hiding. There is a definite attraction between them but can he trust her? Does she have an agenda?
Bette is feeling confused because she finds herself starting to feel for Rollin. This wasn't part of the plan when she fled her city. Why does Rollin run hot and cold?
Along with this, there is danger in the city...
Will they find the trust they need to love?
This book was very different. The Vampires lived in "cities below" and I did wonder at some point id there were cities above where the humans lived or if it were more of a post apocaliptic type of thing. The question was never really answered for me but that aside I really liked the story.
Rollin is such a humble guy. His "father" is royalty but you would never know this by his demeanor. He is just a hard working man who believes in carrying his own weight in life. Bette, I don't think she had a mean bone in her body basically. She'd not really had any kind of life since her parents death and just wanted a chance to live, a chance at some type of happiness.
January 9, 2018
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
When I picked up Sheltered I somehow missed the important fact that this is a story deep within a series. I’m a reader who enjoys, needs to start from the beginning to get all the world building, nuances and background – not everyone feels this way but I do. So, having said that I did enjoy Sheltered for what it is, an engaging Paranormal Romance. I liked Bette and Rollin, even if I didn’t understand them at times. For a novel involving vampires there is little to no action, no real danger that I could feel from this one. There is implied, of course, but missing the beginnings of this series that fell short for me.
So, I’m going to do something I rarely do in a review. I’m going to withhold my final judgement about this story until I can get caught up on the series – then I’ll revise this review when I understand things that I feel I should have known to get the full entertainment value of this story.
For now, I enjoyed Sheltered, even if I wasn’t thrilled with what I consider a cliffhanging ending. Based on this story, I enjoyed Rollin and Bette, there are issues to be dealt with but I believed in their passion for each other. Will I continue with this series? I frankly do not know, that will depend on my reaction to the first story in this series, In The Dark which is now on my Kindle.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
When I picked up Sheltered I somehow missed the important fact that this is a story deep within a series. I’m a reader who enjoys, needs to start from the beginning to get all the world building, nuances and background – not everyone feels this way but I do. So, having said that I did enjoy Sheltered for what it is, an engaging Paranormal Romance. I liked Bette and Rollin, even if I didn’t understand them at times. For a novel involving vampires there is little to no action, no real danger that I could feel from this one. There is implied, of course, but missing the beginnings of this series that fell short for me.
So, I’m going to do something I rarely do in a review. I’m going to withhold my final judgement about this story until I can get caught up on the series – then I’ll revise this review when I understand things that I feel I should have known to get the full entertainment value of this story.
For now, I enjoyed Sheltered, even if I wasn’t thrilled with what I consider a cliffhanging ending. Based on this story, I enjoyed Rollin and Bette, there are issues to be dealt with but I believed in their passion for each other. Will I continue with this series? I frankly do not know, that will depend on my reaction to the first story in this series, In The Dark which is now on my Kindle.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
January 8, 2018
This is a voluntary review of an advanced copy.
When I started reading the first chapter, I was really confused and even wondered if I had the wrong book. When I read the book description, it did not say that his was a paranormal setting, and I had no idea that I was starting the series in book 4. While it took me a few chapters to understand what was going on, I would have enjoyed the book much more if I had read the previous books, and not left with a cliffhanger at the end.
The story itself was interesting and I could understand how Bette was going a little crazy after ten years of hiding out in her home. She takes a risk and leaves for Balinese and the escape is pretty anticlimactic!
I did like that Bette was able to support Rollin and sad that he never really felt that kind of support before her. It seems like even with the age difference between them, Bette is the type of person that Rollin needs in his life since he is a protector type and she needs protecting! I think if he found his true mate was someone like Cat or Dulcina, he would be miserable!
For myself, I would have enjoyed the book a lot more after reading the previous books, as I love when previous characters are featured and we continue to see them in the series. Much of my confusion would have been answered if there was a little preface that gives a little background to this world and its characters. I was never sure if someone was human or vampire!
When I started reading the first chapter, I was really confused and even wondered if I had the wrong book. When I read the book description, it did not say that his was a paranormal setting, and I had no idea that I was starting the series in book 4. While it took me a few chapters to understand what was going on, I would have enjoyed the book much more if I had read the previous books, and not left with a cliffhanger at the end.
The story itself was interesting and I could understand how Bette was going a little crazy after ten years of hiding out in her home. She takes a risk and leaves for Balinese and the escape is pretty anticlimactic!
I did like that Bette was able to support Rollin and sad that he never really felt that kind of support before her. It seems like even with the age difference between them, Bette is the type of person that Rollin needs in his life since he is a protector type and she needs protecting! I think if he found his true mate was someone like Cat or Dulcina, he would be miserable!
For myself, I would have enjoyed the book a lot more after reading the previous books, as I love when previous characters are featured and we continue to see them in the series. Much of my confusion would have been answered if there was a little preface that gives a little background to this world and its characters. I was never sure if someone was human or vampire!
February 10, 2018
3,5 stars
My feelings went back and forth on this one for a variety of reasons. The world of The Cities Below is still just as fascinating as it has been throughout this series, but this one felt more laid back on the action side of things. Rollin and Bette both have secrets and there is plenty of romantic tension, but after so much intrigue and action in the series, I was a little disappointed at the lack of it here. The story is still good and if you've followed the series, we get more of so many beloved characters. There are still some unanswered questions and the epilogue raises a few more. I'll be interested to see where this series goes from here.
My feelings went back and forth on this one for a variety of reasons. The world of The Cities Below is still just as fascinating as it has been throughout this series, but this one felt more laid back on the action side of things. Rollin and Bette both have secrets and there is plenty of romantic tension, but after so much intrigue and action in the series, I was a little disappointed at the lack of it here. The story is still good and if you've followed the series, we get more of so many beloved characters. There are still some unanswered questions and the epilogue raises a few more. I'll be interested to see where this series goes from here.
January 4, 2018
Jen Colly is a new to me author and one I will read again.
I enjoyed the world building and though this book is part of a series it was easy to read it without feeling as though you were missing any key details. The characters were enjoyable, except for the heroine, Bette. I found her so difficult to like and couldn't really get to grips with her motivation. Nonetheless this was an interesting read and I look forward to catching up with the rest of the series.
I enjoyed the world building and though this book is part of a series it was easy to read it without feeling as though you were missing any key details. The characters were enjoyable, except for the heroine, Bette. I found her so difficult to like and couldn't really get to grips with her motivation. Nonetheless this was an interesting read and I look forward to catching up with the rest of the series.
October 24, 2017
Bette can surprise Rollin, “I can do without.” Bette gazed sweetly up at him. “Rollin, you’ve done more than enough for me already. Those other things aren’t necessary. Well, I suppose I’ll need shoes, but truly you can skip the rest.” Rollin gaped at her." I liked this book, Rollin and Bette were really good for each other.
February 9, 2018
It did seem a bit rushed at times, but really enjoying this entire series. If you haven't read the other books, you may be a bit lost with some of the characters and things going on politically between cities. I do think this is a series where you want to start at the beginning and read all of them. It is certainly set up to flow right into the next book! Can't wait for the next one.
January 11, 2018
Only love can save her from certain death. Too bad, she doesn’t believe in love...
When Bette Dautry comes to him, seeking his protection, Guardian Rollin Casteel suspects the mysterious beauty has an ulterior motive. Unable to resist her seductive charms, he soon hungers to mark her as his. Only Bette disappears before he can sink his teeth into her tender flesh, leaving Rollin with one mission: to find her—and to claim her. . . .
Bette seduces Rollin intent on conceiving his child, believing the mother-child bond to be the only kind of love she can sustain—the only kind of love that can keep her alive. But she never expects to feel so much for her strong and silent lover. Then she discovers Rollin is none other than the heir to the Balinese throne—a man too noble—too dear—to play a role in her dark scheme. A man she would willingly die for, if only he would set her free. . . .
Review:
This is book number 4 in the continuing story of the saga of vampires and demons. It is a unique series as it gives a different take on these two warring parties.
This specifically is Bette and Rollin's story. I really liked them both and liked the idea of Bette escaping her city in the hopes to have a child and turn the feeling of needing to die. Rollin is super sweet and alpha, and just an all around good character. There are sweet and sexy together. I liked the story, but I kept waiting for something exciting to happen. Someone to come after Bette or there to be a battle over her or even some real conflict or pregnancy between Bette and Rollin to add some tension. It just was not there. For me it just lacked that excitement to make it an even better story. I will keep on reading the series because I like the storyline, this is just not my favorite of the series.
3.5Stars
*I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this book provided by the publisher.*
When Bette Dautry comes to him, seeking his protection, Guardian Rollin Casteel suspects the mysterious beauty has an ulterior motive. Unable to resist her seductive charms, he soon hungers to mark her as his. Only Bette disappears before he can sink his teeth into her tender flesh, leaving Rollin with one mission: to find her—and to claim her. . . .
Bette seduces Rollin intent on conceiving his child, believing the mother-child bond to be the only kind of love she can sustain—the only kind of love that can keep her alive. But she never expects to feel so much for her strong and silent lover. Then she discovers Rollin is none other than the heir to the Balinese throne—a man too noble—too dear—to play a role in her dark scheme. A man she would willingly die for, if only he would set her free. . . .
Review:
This is book number 4 in the continuing story of the saga of vampires and demons. It is a unique series as it gives a different take on these two warring parties.
This specifically is Bette and Rollin's story. I really liked them both and liked the idea of Bette escaping her city in the hopes to have a child and turn the feeling of needing to die. Rollin is super sweet and alpha, and just an all around good character. There are sweet and sexy together. I liked the story, but I kept waiting for something exciting to happen. Someone to come after Bette or there to be a battle over her or even some real conflict or pregnancy between Bette and Rollin to add some tension. It just was not there. For me it just lacked that excitement to make it an even better story. I will keep on reading the series because I like the storyline, this is just not my favorite of the series.
3.5Stars
*I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this book provided by the publisher.*
December 29, 2017
A good honest paranormal romance. I really enjoyed reading it and appreciate the writing and the way the characters were developed.
Unfortunately there is a cliffhanger so I will need to read the next book :)
Recommended for people who likes paranormal romances.
Many thanks to Kensington Books and Netgalley
Unfortunately there is a cliffhanger so I will need to read the next book :)
Recommended for people who likes paranormal romances.
Many thanks to Kensington Books and Netgalley
January 11, 2018
When you think of vampires you think of strong, capable beings having the ability to do amazing things. But in Jen Colly’s new novel Sheltered the fourth book in The Cities Below, published under the Lyrical Press brand and sold by Penguin Random House Publisher, you find that this is not always true and that there are just some vampires needing to be sheltered.
Though this story was easy to put down, just as quickly you wanted to pick it up to enjoy the rest of the story. I started Sheltered not realizing this story was part of a series, I had no trouble following the plot.
Sheltered follows the story of Bette Dautry a long vampire who feels the sun calling to her. If she doesn’t find something to bind her to this world, she just might take that final step into the sun. So, she decides to take a trip to the mystery city below, where she find Rollin a Guardian to the city. But unknown to Bette, Rollin is not just any Guardian, he is one of the heirs to the Balinese throne.
What I totally adored about Sheltered was the name spin of how the story will go and end. All through this story, Rollin had to shelter and protect Bette and that was totally okay with me. Which made this story very unique and pleasurable; I come to love the characters and the secondary characters.
Though this story was easy to put down, just as quickly you wanted to pick it up to enjoy the rest of the story. I started Sheltered not realizing this story was part of a series, I had no trouble following the plot.
Sheltered follows the story of Bette Dautry a long vampire who feels the sun calling to her. If she doesn’t find something to bind her to this world, she just might take that final step into the sun. So, she decides to take a trip to the mystery city below, where she find Rollin a Guardian to the city. But unknown to Bette, Rollin is not just any Guardian, he is one of the heirs to the Balinese throne.
What I totally adored about Sheltered was the name spin of how the story will go and end. All through this story, Rollin had to shelter and protect Bette and that was totally okay with me. Which made this story very unique and pleasurable; I come to love the characters and the secondary characters.
January 8, 2019
Rollin is a Balinese Guardian who’s been a protector all his life. He was raised by his adopted mom Cat who also raised four other kids whon Rollin loves as his own siblings. Rollin has moved out on his own but still stops to see Cat every morning as she is close to giving birth. Rollin is worried about two of his four siblings more than the other two. Bette is an aristocratic vampire from Valenna and has been dominated by the evil Lady and It’s Captain. Her parents had been killed and she is wanted to mark and mate her for money because of hre station. To prevent a mating mark from being forced on her Betty locks herself in her house for the next ten years.About once a month a friend comes and brings Bette something to eat. Now Bette’s sanity is in question and the sun calls to her which would be instant death. So Bette has decided to seduce one of the guardians and she would have her own protector but also Bette believes the only bond she can form and will save her life is the bond between a mother and child. She wants to get pregnant. Bette gets to Balenere which is a haven for all who need refuge. Rollin and another Guardian are on shift. Bette tells rollin she is being chased by demons. Rollin doesn’t believe her but lets her in anyway and takes her to his own home. Bette and Rollin have secrets that they try to hide from one another.From the beginning Bette and Rollin are barely apart and Rollin doesn’t want to let Bette go.Rollin needs to be needed and Bette needs him. He tries to make Bette feel safe. Bette finds herself falling for Rollin. Bette understands more about Rollin than his family does. Bette is the first woman Rollin has ever got close to. Soon Rollin is falling for Bette and she for him. But she also knows association with her could ruin Rollins future. She is starting to doubt her original plan is worth Rollin sacrificing his dream as she loves him now. But there are guardians letting demons into the city and others fighting for money. Rollin hungers to mark Bette as his own but than Betet disappears.
I had mixed feelings about this book. Like Bette locking herself in wehen Vampires can go right through doors and walls. I also felt this could use some action to liven it up. But I did enjoy this book I just wouldn’t read this again and that goes into my rating. I did love Rollin and Bette together. They were really want each other needed. I also got irritated by hearing about the age difference so what vampires tend to live a long time if not killed or go into the sun. i did also like the plot. I felt bad bette was at the point of wanting to commit suicide. At times this felt a little rushed to me. I also HATE cliffhangers and that also added to the drop in ratings for me. I got a little confused at times while reading this also. There were also a few too many side plots. As you can see i have mixed feelings on this book.
I had mixed feelings about this book. Like Bette locking herself in wehen Vampires can go right through doors and walls. I also felt this could use some action to liven it up. But I did enjoy this book I just wouldn’t read this again and that goes into my rating. I did love Rollin and Bette together. They were really want each other needed. I also got irritated by hearing about the age difference so what vampires tend to live a long time if not killed or go into the sun. i did also like the plot. I felt bad bette was at the point of wanting to commit suicide. At times this felt a little rushed to me. I also HATE cliffhangers and that also added to the drop in ratings for me. I got a little confused at times while reading this also. There were also a few too many side plots. As you can see i have mixed feelings on this book.
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