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I am Arkadia Castner. I am beautiful. I am popular. I am also the most messed-up witch you will ever meet. I can’t make water boil, or make the wind blow; I can’t even light a match without the aid of a flint. My 18th birthday is in six months, and if I don’t pass the Paranormal Safety Exams (PSEs) by then, I will be banished to the Isle of Shadows for eternity, never to be seen again – it will be as though I never existed.

I found myself at the halfway house under the supervision and guidance of Den Mother and telepathic empath, Eloise Mayflower. The halfway house is the last chance for troubled paranormal teens like me to pass our PSEs and avoid banishment. Eloise knows everything I think and feel, and is supposed to be helping me, but I still can’t do basic spells a six-year-old can do. I hate it here, but I have no choice. This is my last chance.

I had all but given up hope, when in walks Bohdan Drak. Tall, dark, and so damn sexy it hurts to look at him – even his muscles had muscles. He is a dragon shifter and wears the mark of having passed his PSEs. When our souls meet, we realize we have found our soul mates and perfect matches. My dying hope has found life again, and I finally have a reason to look forward to a future.

I thought everything would be fine, but darkness and despair creep into my future. I have been framed for a murder, and everyone believes I am guilty. The paranormal council now watches my every move. Can I trust Bohdan and true love? I fear my destiny is to be banished forever …

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First published October 27, 2014

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About the author

Dzintra Sullivan

33 books516 followers
Dzintra is an Australian author, living in Queensland, Australia, where the weather is always warm and sunny.
She writes a perfect blend of drama, comedy and romance all mixed up in a paranormal/fantasy mash up. Her characters are addictive and her books fresh and new.
Her favourite thing to do is to take beliefs aand characters you think you know and turn them upside down.
Take a chance, you won't regret it.

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5 stars
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22 (11%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
Profile Image for Tracy O’Sing.
327 reviews35 followers
September 13, 2020
Arkadia, Halfway House Series #1 ...what can I say other than WOW!!
Loved, Loved, Loved it...

A Huge fan of PNR this book did not disappoint.

A fast paced and well developed story that was captivating and hard to put down. A Magical world created by Ms Sullivan, that included wonderful characters, plenty of Paranormal creatures, magic, humour and a little romance.. An awesome start to a Fantastic new series..

Arkadia a Witch, soon to be 18 and worried about passing her paranormal Safety Exams (PSE's), if she fails to pass, its off to the Isle of Shadows. Fortunately with the help of a new Den mother Eloise, Arkadia learns that to successfully master her Craft she must stop being a self centred little Witch! and start thinking of others, only then will she feel the touch of the goddess.. After a few Magical mistakes Arkadia comes to realise that Eloise means it when she said she will Always be there for her, and the other members of the house.....

Bohdan the Super Sexy Dragon Shifter arrives in town in his Big Black Truck! With an instant attraction to Arkadia, Bohdan must control his Dragon who is also drawn to the Witch.. And oh the chemistry between the two HOT, HOT, HOT.. wow dragon flames hot, scorch the pages hot..

Arkadia finds herself at the centre of a murder investigation, It takes Bohdan, his Dragon, and the other paranormal residents of Huntsville to help Arkadia control her Magic, pass her PSE's and Find why she has been set up for murder. No spoilers I will leave all the excitement for the readers to discover.

Just read it you wont be disappointed.. On my Favourite and Re-Reads list a MUST for all fans of PNR..

Looking forward to the next book in this Halfway House series..
Profile Image for Liz Lovelock.
Author 33 books522 followers
October 7, 2014
OH MY GOODNESS!!

I freakin loved this book! I read it in just one afternoon (thankfully my hubby kept the kids entertained). I haven’t read a good paranormal romance in a while and Arkadia took me right from the start and held me right through to the end and then left me wanting more. You know how when you read a book and you love it so much that when you finish it you don’t know what to read next as you still feel like your living in that last book you read? Well that was Arkadia for me.

Dzintra has done an amazing job on her debut novel and I seriously cannot wait for Raven’s story. If Arkadia’s was anything to go by then Raven’s is going to be just as awesome! I love all the characters especially Bohdan, he captured my heart instantly and the connection between Arkadia and Bohdan was instant and amazing, it gave me tingles. I love this story and all its elements! This is one book I will be recommending to EVERYONE! I loved every minute of it. Great job Dzintra! If I could give you more stars I would!
Profile Image for Nadene.
14 reviews1 follower
February 10, 2015
Love Love Love Arkadia the book the person the whole lot.... First go out for Dzintra Sullivan and it is fantastic....

We meet Arkadia as a smart mouthed self absorbed teen who happens to be a witch with spell issues... For her life to continue she must pass her PSE's (paranormal safety exams) to be allowed to blend in with the rest of the human population.. This will not happen if she doesn't get control of herself and her wayward spells. Welcome Eloise Mayflower the telepathic empath house mother who is there to try and get Arkadia back on track. Watching the relationship blossom and grow between these two was wonderful. The love and support of a parent/guardian for a child is beautifully demonstrated in this novel...

Life is going ahead full steam for Arkadia and then in flys Bohdan a dragon shifter who is HOT HOT HOT and melts Arkadia's frozen selfish heart. Just as life seems to be perfect Arkadia is thrown into turmoil. She is framed for murder and the paranormal council is out to destroy any one that endangers the safety of the paranormal secret... Dzintra has done an amanzing job of keeping you on the edge of your seat, will Arkadia survive and live happily everafter with her amazing dragon lover or will the council banish her forever and she will cease to exist in this world. This book is full of surprises all the way through it has it all, love, drama, suspense and of course a love that is so beautiful you can't help but want that for yourself... Well done Dzintra Sullivan and I can't wait for book 2 in this awesome Halfway House Series.
Profile Image for Kaylene Osborn.
394 reviews24 followers
October 5, 2014
Well, well, well, what a gorgeous book. I absolutely recommend this one ….

This is the first book in the Halfway House series by Dzintra Sullivan.

We start out meeting Arkadia, a pretty young girl who really seems to have no idea about how her witchcraft is supposed to work. She messes up spells and is in dire need of some maternal direction. In steps Eloise, a gorgeous den mother of the halfway house where Arkadia finds herself. Eloise is lovely and being a telephath she is able to see into Arkadia’s mind and read what she is thinking and feeling. Arkadia desperately needs to improve her magic skills and pass her PSEs otherwise she will be banished.

Of course, no good paranormal romance would be complete without the hero, Bohdan, who is a dragon. They both realise fairly quickly that they are a perfect match and Bodham helps her to look forward to a future.

I love, love, love Bohdan’s character, he is hot, sexy and handsome, oh and did I mention hot (literally). I would love a little Bohdan in my life. Arkadia’s character grew thorough out the story, and she was absolutely the star of this book.

Excellent debut novel and I honestly cannot wait to read the next in the series. I give this book five bright shiny stars. I can thoroughly recommend the read.
Profile Image for Fee (Ebook Addicts).
1,471 reviews45 followers
October 28, 2014
I couldn't help but love this book! At first I thought Arkadia was a little bratty then I remembered what I was like at 17...

For a debut book I was impressed. The story flowed well, the character were likable for a paranormal book I loved the idea of dragon shifters. Never read a shifter book with one of them before.

Arkadia is painstakingly trying to get her witch talent to work and pass her PSE or face being banished to the Island. The story finds her falling in love, testing her abilities and wrapped up in murder charges. Just your average 17 year old problems :)

I can't wait to read the second book, and I want to know more about the Island they go to of they don't lass their tests.

A great YA book and an even better debut novel.

5 stars.
Profile Image for Cassie Brooker.
255 reviews1 follower
November 2, 2014
Since I work 3 jobs it took me a little longer to read the entire book.

I FREAKIN LOVED IT!!!!!!!

I couldn't put it down and didn't want too either! Bold an sounds super HOT!

I love that you have paranormal people tired into real life and just trying to be normal but with powers.

I love Eloise and she makes a wonderful mother figure for Arkadia.

What surprised me the most was Violets family history! It's crazy how her family is also paras but I didn't expect it!!

Love dragon too who would do anything to protect his queen and Bo and Arkadia are soul mates.....making my heart melt!

Can't wait for the next book!!!

Thank you Dzintra Sullivan for a wonderful book and look forward to more!
Profile Image for Sue.
1,012 reviews10 followers
June 6, 2016
what a great debut book. a storyline that draws you in from the start with an interesting mix of characters.

Arkadia is a witch who has yet to gain control of her powers and has one last chance to pass her paranormal safety exam (PSE) without it she will be banished to the island of shadows.
Bohdan is the hot sexy Dragon shifter that enters Arcadia's life along with Eloise her new den mother, their support is essential to her surviving the threats against her.

This story has a consistent flow of intrigue, excitement and sizzling attraction (yep, I have a crush on Bohdan) with unexpected twists to keep you hooked, with such a great start to this series, I'm looking forward to reading book 2.
Profile Image for Clara Harding.
149 reviews1 follower
November 2, 2014
I genuinely haven't totally been enthralled by a Young Adult Novel like this since reading Sarra Cannon's Peachville High Demons Series. Simply Arkadia by Dzintra Sullivan ROCKS!!! You will be totally infatuated by the end of Chapter One and hooked instantly by this intense and loveable story about a young witch who is having problems connecting to her magic fully who lives in a "home" with other troubled Paras who have issues such as the Raven the Vampire who hates the sight of blood!!

Arkadia is a young witch who has struggled for years to connect with the Goddess who would inturn help her to connect to her inner magical abilities. But because she can't, her spells always go awry causing havoc and a really huge mess in her wake. Because her parents gave up on her and sent her away to be "fixed" she now lives in a home for other "troubled" Paranormal teenagers, Raven who is a Vampire and the twins; Zahmail & Emerson who are Werewolves. Within the house is a Den Mother whose sole job is to guide them, help them grow and remove their issues that are holding them back so that they are able to take their exams (PSE's : Paranormal Safety Exams), pass them and NOT be banished to the dreaded Island of Shadows. The old Den Mother has just left when we meet Arkadia and a New Den Mother has just arrived, Eloise Mayflower who is not just an Empath but also a Witch.

Arkadia at this point believe's she is a lost cause and no Den Mother will be able to help her regardless of who they are but something about Eloise gives her a small grain of hope, that and the fact she is able to talk to her telepathically and read her thoughts, so much for Privacy! At school she is more successful in her life. She is within a small "Click" of girls; Violet or Vi, Cheyanne or Chey and Catherine or Cat as they called her. All of them including Arkadia are really pretty girls that the other girls look up to and ask advice from. Even though only Chey knew she was a witch as she also was a fellow witch, she feels so much support and acceptance from these girls.They are her world, but ALL of that is about to change and Arkadia's world is about to be dumped upside down in ways she never imagined...............

Sebastian is obsessed with Arkadia and has been asking her out on dates for quite sometime and finally Arkadia breaks and agrees. She thinks "why not?" maybe he is different away from school? As they Mayors son he believes he is someone very special and power has gone to his head and he normally gets everything and anything he wants.....except Arkadia. So he is delighted when she agrees to go on a date with him. Not wanting to send out the wrong message, Arkadia tries to wear clothes that project a "friendly vibe" but still look good on her. What actually happens on that date changes the entire course of her life bringing out things out of the woodwork and from her past that will endanger her life........

Bohdan is six foot four, with messy curly hair, broad shoulders and bulging biceps and when he and Arkadia meet something deeper than magic kicks into gear, something primal and true......... Bohdan is currently living on a farm with his Uncle so that he can grow as a person and as a Dragon Shifter. The two instantly hit it off and the adventures that they fly, the terrors that they face and the relationship that they form is beyond anything the two of them could even begin to consider. As a character Bohdan is incredibly sexy in his approach to Arkadia, he is brave, fearless and a true "hero". I really don't think I could put it in any other way.

I really recommend that you read Arkadia by Dzintra Sullivan it truly is a brilliant Novel, it will surprise you, engage you, pull you in and be-spell you!!! 5*****Stars!!
Arkadia
Profile Image for Solmarie.
295 reviews7 followers
October 30, 2014
I was on the fence about buying this book after reading several of the reviews. I have to agree with everyone else that the first few chapters did not inspire confidence in me actually liking it. However, once Bohdan came into the picture and Arkadia decided to let Eloise more fully into her life it actually became more interesting.

Let's start with Arkadia Castner. Arcadia is self-absorbed, believing herself to be the most popular and beautiful girl in her school. She also happens to be a horrible witch. Unable to control any of her spells no matter how hard she tries. Finding herself in a situation where she only has several months to pass her Paranormal Safety Exam (PSE) or find herself banished to the Isle of Shadows for eternity she lashes out at everyone who is close to her.

When a strange, new boy comes into her life she has no idea the adventure that is about to begin. Bohdan is a Dragon shifter that has moved into town. With one look he knows that Arkadia is his soul mate. However, things are never that simple. Someone in Arkadia's life wants her dead. And will stop at nothing to accomplish.

I really enjoyed the journey of watching Arcadia come into herself. Finally not only loving those around her but also the person that she truly was. She went from a spoiled brat to someone that you would truly want in your life. I loved Bowdan from the start. He was so sweet and determined to make Arkadia his. To protect her no matter what.

It was a sweet, quick read. I will be on the lookout for the next book in the series.
Profile Image for K.E. Osborn.
Author 126 books1,634 followers
October 6, 2014
5 freaking fangtastic stars - If I could give it more I would!!!!

I haven't read a paranormal book other than The Twilight Saga so I was unsure of how I would like this book. Let me just say I didn't like it, I FREAKING LOVED ARKADIA!!!! It was so well written that I was completely lost in this fantasy world of witches, vampires, werewolves and a sexy as hell dragon shifter, just to name a few.

I honestly couldn't put this book down. The chemistry between Arkadia and Bohdan was hot, literally. The flames of desire shot out from the page and set me on fire. I loved the connection they have.

I also loved the witty dialogue and story line. I had moments of laugh out loud humour, but at the same time I found myself shedding a few tears in places, of joy, suspense and of course sadness. This story has it all. Every emotion I have was brought up in this book and I can honestly say I loved it so much that I would read it again. And I hardly ever re-read books.

For a first go Dzintra you knocked it out of the ball park and half way around the world. Well done! I am so glad that I read this book, trust me - you should all one-click it asap!
Profile Image for Renee at Book Happiness.
1,486 reviews36 followers
October 29, 2014
Reviewed by Chantel
This is the first book I have read by Dzintra Sullivan and I really enjoyed this book. I am a huge

paranormal fan and was excited to read Arkadia. It has a well-written storyline and characters that will

have you hooked from the beginning. I read this book in a few hours and could not put it down.

This book takes you on an amazing adventure with a witch named Arkadia Castner and a dragon shifter

named Bohdan Drak. The chemistry between these two characters is explosion and will have you falling

in love with them.

I highly recommend this book to all readers. This is a paranormal story, but with an amazing love story

that will melt your heart. The twist and turns Arkadia and Bohdan go through in their relationship will

have you routing for them and hoping that they have their HEA at the end.

I am looking forward to reading the next book Raven (Halfway House #) that will hopefully be released

soon. I cannot wait to see what adventures Dzintra has in store for us in the next book.

*Complimentary copy for an honest review
Profile Image for F.F..
Author 9 books21 followers
November 3, 2014
Profile Image for Zoe Sands.
8 reviews2 followers
January 14, 2015
The story was an enjoyable easy read and had likeable fun characters. However, the story plot needed development. It felt sometimes like the writer had put very little thought into what would happen next and just wrote the best things she cld think of, making it seem one dimensional & everything 'too convenient'. One thing that REALLY bugged me was the fact that except for the MC's guardian no other parents were involved at all, or even seemed to notice that their children were up to no good? Where were the parents of the 'evil' main antagonist? It mentioned the gardens & house weren't looking as well kept etc. Yet it failed to mention if they were being kept under some sort of control spell too? Then suddenly it mentioned 'the family' again being at the funeral. It was all 'too convenient' for me. The author needs to plot more carefully in future and think about tying up all those loose threads.
Profile Image for T.P. Hogan.
Author 6 books25 followers
November 4, 2014
I was so excited to get this book. I'd been hearing so much about it. I must admit that at first I couldn't get into Arkadia as a character. She was all 'me, me, me', and it was a struggle to connect with her. Then Bohdan hits the scene, and Arkadia begins to change. She becomes more secure in who she is, and less dependent on the 'populist' vote. (Not that she has much of a choice) By the end of the book, I liked her.
Bohdan, well what can I say about Bohdan? He's a little old fashioned, and slightly quirky...and hot. Literally.
I love the world Dzinta Sullivan created where all fantastical species live together. Vampires, werewolves, witches, empaths, dragons, dark-fae and humans...and it's all real.
2,293 reviews91 followers
August 2, 2018
I have to say I've had this book for awhile and am kicking myself for not having read it before!
I loved everything single thing about this story.
The fun humour that is woven throughout the book is fantastic and you can't help but laugh out loud!
Although there is definitely a lighter side there is a darker one too that created a mystery and thriller all in one! It balances the book so well.
I've never been a huge fan of paranormal books until I started reading some Aussie authors and Dzintra Sullivan is right up there at the top!
I can't wait to read Raven next!
Profile Image for Richard Sullivan.
3 reviews1 follower
November 24, 2014
Arkadia had me from the start, even though I am not a fan of the genre from the depth of the characters to the emotional attachment between Arkadia and Bohdan this book takes you on an emotional roller coaster ride full of intrigue, laughter, tears and suspense.A one night read for those in love with paranormal romance.exceptional first novel in a series which I am positive everyone will love.Easily a 5☆ read. Captivating from start to finish.
Profile Image for A. McCarty.
Author 16 books42 followers
October 29, 2014
I had my doubts about reading this one at first, but once I got started I was pulled in and never once wanted to put it down. If I did put it down I would have this urge to pick it back up. I loved every single minute of it. I must say I want more! I recommend reading this book.

Imaginative Dreams was given a copy for an honest review.
Profile Image for Kylie.
28 reviews1 follower
April 8, 2015
I fell in love with a Dragon shifter called Bohdan. I loved this book. I started reading on the friday and finished it on sunday morning. This was a nice read and the story flowed well. I loved the sassieness Arkadia showed whilst getting a glimpse of her fragility. I can't wait for Raven to come out.
Profile Image for S.K. Fordham.
Author 4 books34 followers
January 25, 2015
This is a wonderful fantasy romance. Shifters, witches, magic and a little suspense thrown in. This book is for young adults and adults alike, if you enjoy a paranormal read I recommend you pick this up.
Profile Image for Heather Roach buckels.
94 reviews1 follower
November 2, 2014
This book was a very good read. I give it 4.5 stars!!!! I really enjoyed it and read it quickly couldn't put it down and can't wait to see what happens next in the series!!!!
1,065 reviews11 followers
September 24, 2016
Title: Arkadia
Author: Dzintra Sullivan
Publisher: Create Space Independent Publishing Platform
ISBN: 978-1503084988
Buy Link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/150...
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
Halfway House 1
I am Arkadia Castner. I am beautiful. I am popular. I am also the most messed-up witch you will ever meet. I can’t make water boil, or make the wind blow; I can’t even light a match without the aid of a flint. My 18th birthday is in six months, and if I don’t pass the Paranormal Safety Exams (PSEs) by then, I will be banished to the Isle of Shadows for eternity, never to be seen again – it will be as though I never existed.

I found myself at the halfway house under the supervision and guidance of Den Mother and telepathic empath, Eloise Mayflower. The halfway house is the last chance for troubled paranormal teens like me to pass our PSEs and avoid banishment. Eloise knows everything I think and feel, and is supposed to be helping me, but I still can’t do basic spells a six-year-old can do. I hate it here, but I have no choice. This is my last chance.

I had all but given up hope, when in walks Bohdan Drak. Tall, dark, and so damn sexy it hurts to look at him – even his muscles had muscles. He is a dragon shifter and wears the mark of having passed his PSEs. When our souls meet, we realize we have found our soul mates and perfect matches. My dying hope has found life again, and I finally have a reason to look forward to a future.
I thought everything would be fine, but darkness and despair creep into my future. I have been framed for a murder, and everyone believes I am guilty. The paranormal council now watches my every move. Can I trust Bohdan and true love? I fear my destiny is to be banished forever …
Total Score: 5/5

Summary:
On the surface, Arkadia had everything, beauty, popularity, and poise, but looks can be deceiving. Arkadia is a witch who is in danger of being banished if she can't get a hold of her magic. Their new Den mother, Eloise, is different then any of their old ones and initially Arkadia fights everything she stands for until her world starts to fall apart as her magic spikes out of control for no apparent reason. Bohdan arrives in town and their attraction is mutual. Arkadia knows that Bohdan has very strong magic and she is amazed when she learns he is a shape shifting dragon. The most astonishing thing happens after their first kiss, something clicks and she can control her magic. You would think that her life was finally on the right path threats against her begin. Arkadia may be a witch, but the paranormal society stays hidden in plain sight. Bohemian’s strong and loving character gives Arkadia the strength to fight back knowing that he will always have her back.

The many unique characters in this story brought it to life as it unfolded. The plot twist came form a direction that I for one never expected, but the reason behind it blew my mind and this is only the first story in the series. I for one will be waiting to see what comes next in this series.


















54 reviews2 followers
May 12, 2016
I actually intended to read each book separately and review each one as i went. That so didn't happen!
As soon as i finished Arkadia i started Raven and so on. Dzintra has written a whole world that is fully fleshed out and deep and as you read through this series you feel like you are part of the family experiencing all other their triumphs and and down falls, their love and their loss the Halfway House series is so indepth and flows so smoothly that you can actually see everything and hear everything in your mind as it happens ...Personally i think this series would make a great movie series and even tv series its that good!.Dzintra Sullivan as stunning word smithing skills and has created a world so whole and indepth that i really want this world to exist ( and i want to live there ---- OK maybe not their neighbour though cos i think having a wolf cub pooping on my property may be a tad smelly lol)

Arkadia: A messed up, self absorbed, spell challenged little witch who needs to pass her Paranormal Safety Exams (PSEs) or be banished..Can she get over or get passed what is holding her back to rise above it all and become the young woman/witch she needs to be or will she fail?......A riveting read that pulls you in from the first and wont let you go with twists and turns and danger and one hell of a hot hot dragon shifter a must read!

Raven: A vampire cant be scared of blood can they?..yep they sure can be ask Raven a beautiful soul who also needs to pass her PSEs. But finds out that lies come back and bite you on the bum and can throw your life into even more of a mess than it is already. Enter the hot hot Samuel can he help Raven get over her aversion to blood can he help her sort through the mess that is her life and accept it? ...an exciting read a must have series!

Nevaeh: What to say about her?....Man she is a hard one to love , mind you so would you be if you haven't experienced love before ..Can Nevaeh face her challenges pass her quest will she choose love or duty? Loved Her story so much! Loved to see the growth in this beautiful lippy outspoken little angel with a heart so big!!

Ashja: Well well well what to say about Ashja?..Personally i wanted to smack him upside the head a few times he is arrogant, he is cocky he is adorable, he is caring, he is a force to be reckoned with who needs to learn the lessons he doesn't think he needs to learn, But will he?

I do feel that special mention needs to be made of Eloise and Rumor These ladies hold the Halfway house together one with pure love the other with her tough as nails outlook without these two i do not think the halfway house series would be complete. personally i would've loved a mother who was the exact mix of these to wonderful strong powerful caring women.
Profile Image for Kim Pruitt.
312 reviews
August 1, 2015
**Book provided by the author for an honest review**

The life of Arkadia Castner had a very sad beginning that flourished into a happily ever after at the end of her story. Arkadia had lost both her parents at a young age, and as a witch was placed in a halfway house for young paranormal foster kids. Arkadia was seventeen, had already taken the "magical exams" which they called the PSE's twice, and failed. She had one more chance to take and pass it before her eighteenth birthday! Arkadia had emotional issues from her past that kept her from truly embracing her gift. The more Eloise, the telepathic den mother of the house, reached out to Arkadia, the farther Arkadia pulled away. One fateful night on a date gone wrong Arkadia is forced to trust Eloise to help her out of this mess before she really ends up at the Isle of Shadows!

All I have to say is wow! This book totally blew me away! I was not expecting things to turn out to be as exciting, intense, and hot as it did. The beginning of the book was giving me the impression that it was going to be all about Arkadia trying to pass the PSE's, but HELL TO THE NO! You have some serious players in this story that take it to a whole new level! Shifters, vampires, and witches oh my!

Arkadia feels so out of place and unloved that the only way she can escape that hard reality is to shut it all off and be a fake barbie at school with her popular clique and stylish attire...until Bohdan arrives. Woo doggie does he light her fire, literally! OK, she is seventeen, and in high school still, but because of her "paranormal nature" the romance portion of the book does not go into details, but their is some bow chick a wow wow going on! With all the sexual innuendo and let's get naked talk, the only comparison I have is Twilight, we know they have sex because of the trail off from making out and undressing, then fading to black and picking up the next morning.

I love all the characters! Especially Eloise because of her strong character but also her motherly touch and love with Arkadia. Bohdan was a surprise I surely wasn't expecting! The plot, sub-plot, and twist, (not referring to the nipple kind) was extremely exciting and entertaining! The beginning was misleading, the middle was hot, and the end was fangtastic! I look forward to reading book 2 about Raven, Arkadia's vampire foster sister!
Profile Image for  Aschlie Brake - The Piggy has Flown Books.
160 reviews35 followers
April 5, 2015
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I am a big fan of all kinds of paranormal, and I just love Dzintra's stories! They are not the typical cookie cutter paranormal stories. Each character is unique, whether you like them is up to you. I have always been the fan for 'the not understood' or 'under-dogs', because there is always so much depth to those persons, that you have to root for them always.

In this story we meet Arkadia Castner, a witch, that has not mastered her gifts, but is at a turning point in her life. She must pass her PSE's, an exam that demonstrates that the paranormal individual can contain and handle their gifts, without given out knowledge to the general human population. No matter how hard she has tried she cannot get even the simplest of spells to work, most times they back fire, some are pretty darn funny. But she must learn from her mistakes, but without a good role model or teacher she is just floundering. But Arkadia, can't, or just won't, let people into her life because they just walk away in the end, so why get close? Her way of thinking could cost her, her freedom or her life, until Eloise Mayflower, comes into her life.

Eloise, is someone that everyone can love, being a telepathic she can get to the heart of most problems when it comes to the kids living in the Halfway House for paranormal misfits. Can Eloise help get Arkadia out of her shell? Will she understand Arkadia's apprehensions to the intimacies that could cost her her heart or life?

Then the dark and deadly, Bohdan Drak, rolls into town within his big sexy burly truck. This shifter, has such a pull on Arkadia that she is so confused on to why she is drawn to him. How has to cosmos and her goddess set her up with such a dark and deadly stranger, no matter how sexy he is. What how Bohdan reacts to Arkadia and his own desire for her. Can they be fated mates? Bohdan is a gifted hockey player and is trying to get into the NHL, but will be okay with a witch mate and all the drama she may bring? But he can't get past the "Mine, Mine, Mine!" complex and is deeply rooted to protect his destined mate.

There is plenty of drama, deceit, love and charisma within this story, that you will be begging for the next story!
Profile Image for Jacky.
104 reviews4 followers
June 2, 2016
I took a while to get into this book but I am glad that I kept reading, I really enjoyed how the story developed getting to know the characters and the world they live in better made this an enjoyable read.

There is no sexual explicit scenes in this book more just implied. So it is definitely a story I would recommend to an older teenager who was into Paranormal romance stories.

Story:
I am Arkadia Castner. I am beautiful. I am popular. I am also the most messed-up witch you will ever meet. I can’t make water boil, or make the wind blow; I can’t even light a match without the aid of a flint. My 18th birthday is in six months, and if I don’t pass the Paranormal Safety Exams (PSEs) by then, I will be banished to the Isle of Shadows for eternity, never to be seen again – it will be as though I never existed.

I found myself at the halfway house under the supervision and guidance of Den Mother and telepathic empath, Eloise Mayflower. The halfway house is the last chance for troubled paranormal teens like me to pass our PSEs and avoid banishment. Eloise knows everything I think and feel, and is supposed to be helping me, but I still can’t do basic spells a six-year-old can do. I hate it here, but I have no choice. This is my last chance.

I had all but given up hope, when in walks Bohdan Drak. Tall, dark, and so damn sexy it hurts to look at him – even his muscles had muscles. He is a dragon shifter and wears the mark of having passed his PSEs. When our souls meet, we realize we have found our soul mates and perfect matches. My dying hope has found life again, and I finally have a reason to look forward to a future.

I thought everything would be fine, but darkness and despair creep into my future. I have been framed for a murder, and everyone believes I am guilty. The paranormal council now watches my every move. Can I trust Bohdan and true love? I fear my destiny is to be banished forever ...
Profile Image for Kristen Gough.
379 reviews9 followers
April 14, 2016
This is a great love story about a sexy dragon shifter and a teenage witch who is coming into her powers. Arkadia is the popular girl in school and the one that everyone turns to for fashion tips and she feels on top of the world. The only problem is that she's a powerful witch who's having a lot of trouble controlling her powers and she's got a limited amount of time to prove she can do so or she'll be banished to an island for those who cannot be controlled. She's stressing about over this big time. Eloise is the new house mother in the halfway house for paranormal kids and she's hoping to help Arkadia learn to control her powers. Arkadia hasn't lived an easy life and has issues trusting people and letting them in and doesn't make it easy for Eloise to be there for her. Her life is turned even more upside down when she meets her soul mate in the form of the sexy dragon shifter Bohdan who is new to town and the chemistry between these two is off the charts explosive! I love how protective he is of her and how he is there for her no matter what and without question, even during those times when Arkadia tries to push him away. He is exactly what she needs and I love how both Bohdan and Eloise help Arkadia to learn who she is and how to let people in. I loved reading this and I can't wait to read the next story in this series! I highly recommend this book to anyone to read and I look forward to reading much more from this author in the future.
Profile Image for Tina Tharpe.
32 reviews2 followers
November 11, 2014
Picture going through puberty while having to learn magic. That is basically what Arkadia is doing in this novel. She is a teenager obsessed with shoes, clothes, hanging out with her friends, and just so happens to be a witch. Her biggest issue is passing her PSA exam-if she fails, she will be banished to an island forever.

After losing her mother, Arkadia ends up in a half way house for supernatural kids. She shares the house with a vampire and twin werewolves. The house mother Eloise is an empath and witch. She immediately tries to take a defiant Arkadia under her wing and help her learn to control her spells. After a series of mishaps and a murder, Arkadia bonds with Eloise and learns to trust her. Arkadia finds herself the suspect of a supernatural murder that has both humans and other paranormals after her and in the process finds out who her real friends are.

Arkadia starts out as a selfish self absorbed brat, and by the end of the book she has matured a bit. After meeting Bohdan she learns to love and care about people other than herself. Their romance is a typical teenage sort, except he is a were-dragon and she a witch. There are enough twists and turns to keep this book lively. It is a quick and easy read. I recommend this if you want an easy read that still has some excitement.
Profile Image for Magic Within the Pages.
397 reviews15 followers
December 5, 2014
Reviewer : Kaylene
Rating : 5 Stars

Well, well, well, what a gorgeous book. I absolutely recommend this one ….

This is the first book in the Halfway House series by Dzintra Sullivan.
We start out meeting Arkadia, a pretty young girl who really seems to have no idea about how her witchcraft is supposed to work. She messes up spells and is in dire need of some maternal direction. In steps Eloise, a gorgeous den mother of the halfway house where Arkadia finds herself. Eloise is lovely and being a telephath she is able to see into Arkadia’s mind and read what she is thinking and feeling. Arkadia desperately needs to improve her magic skills and pass her PSEs otherwise she will be banished.
Of course, no good paranormal romance would be complete without the hero, Bohdan, who is a dragon. They both realise fairly quickly that they are a perfect match and Bodham helps her to look forward to a future.
I love, love, love Bohdan’s character, he is hot, sexy and handsome, oh and did I mention hot (literally). I would love a little Bohdan in my life. Arkadia’s character grew thorough out the story, and she was absolutely the star of this book.
Excellent debut novel and I honestly cannot wait to read the next in the series. I give this book five bright shiny stars. I can thoroughly recommend the read.
Profile Image for Karen Voitik.
3,219 reviews
August 11, 2016
>Book Review – Arkadia

>I am an independent reviewer. This young adult book is the first in the Halfway House series and ends in an HEA. Arkadia is a fledgling witch staying at a group home for para normal creatures who need guidance with their abilities. For the most part Arkadia is a normal shallow high school girl, but rumors and a murder will show Arkadia what is truly important and who her real friends are.

>The new hot hockey player, Bohdan, is really a dragon shifter and quickly realizes he is Arkadia’s mate. His protectiveness and tender care for Arkadia is so sweet and romantic. Arkadia quickly falls for Bohdan and also learns to love her new house mother, Eloise. I am glad Arkadia had a change of heart after falling in love, because at the beginning of the book, she was too spoiled to really care about.

>There is some humor in her inability to control spells and her wayward thoughts, forgetting Eloise can read minds. Even though there aren’t any explicit sex scenes, sex is implied, but tastefully. There is danger, action, romance and betrayal: everything a good story needs. This book is appropriate for a young adult (16+) to adult audience. I am giving the story 5 stars.
Profile Image for Book Junky Girls.
840 reviews33 followers
December 22, 2014
This story takes you into the world of a teen witch trying to learn enough magic to pass her exams so she isn't deemed a risk and forced to go live on an island where at risk paranormals are sent so they don't accidently let the human world know about theirs.

Arkadia lives in a halfway house with other young paras who are just trying to live their lives without trouble. But their den mothers are always horrible so they've gone through allot of them until one comes along who might just be what they all needed.

As the date for her birthday comes closer Arkadia is freaking out about her magic and on top of that something crazy keeps happening when the new hockey player is in the same room as her. On top of all that... is a murder, and everyone suspects her. But hey it's all in the life of a teen witch...right?

This is her journey into finding herself and her confidence before it's too late.

At the begining I tought Arkadia was a snobby miss priss pain in the butt, but as the story continues you see her growth as she learns and understands more about herself. Interesting paranormal read and a good start to a new series.
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