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Above and Beyond #1
The Empath
Aeron Lorelei is a young woman with a troubled past and a troubling gift. Blessed and cursed with the ability to sense the feelings, past, and future of those around her, Aeron lived as a misfit child. When she was sixteen, she took the blame for the death of her best friend’s little brother. Eleven years later she's released from the correctional facility and must go back to her hometown–the scene of the crime that no one has forgotten.
But Aeron must deal with more than just animosity. Someone in town is abducting and killing young girls. Aeron becomes the number one suspect and her distant father, the specter of her grandmother, and her mysterious psychiatrist must work together to discover the real killer. To prove her innocence, Aeron is forced to use the gift she has spent her life hiding.
But Aeron must deal with more than just animosity. Someone in town is abducting and killing young girls. Aeron becomes the number one suspect and her distant father, the specter of her grandmother, and her mysterious psychiatrist must work together to discover the real killer. To prove her innocence, Aeron is forced to use the gift she has spent her life hiding.
344 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 24, 2014
15 people are currently reading
288 people want to read
About the author
Jody Klaire
23 books71 followersJody has been everything from a serving police officer to working in kitchens before finding her home in writing. She can often be found chuckling to herself at her own jokes; being pounced by her golden retriever Fergus; eating cake or chocolate or preferably both, and sometimes, when Fergus hasn’t run off with her keyboard, she writes stuff.
Best Maid Plans is Jody’s first book independently published but you can find her other published works online or in most book stores (you’ll just need to order them in.)
Website: jodyklaire.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/jodyklaireauthor
Twitter: @jodyklaire
Best Maid Plans is Jody’s first book independently published but you can find her other published works online or in most book stores (you’ll just need to order them in.)
Website: jodyklaire.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/jodyklaireauthor
Twitter: @jodyklaire
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
March 16, 2018
Great series! surprisingly an enticing read/storyline from start to the finish with very good pacing,great chemistry build up,fantastic supporting cast,the P.O.V was spot on because this series and plot twist was a good lead-in book#2 Highly recommended series to everyone!
May 9, 2020
I had a lot of fun with this read. I needed to take a break from ARC reading and I kind of randomly ran into this book on my kindle. I have wanted to read this series for years but always forgot about it. The mixture of mystery, light thriller, and a paranormal twist just sounds about perfect for my tastes. I’m glad I read this because it was really entertaining. There were a few issues, but for the most part this was a lot of fun.
Aeron has been locked in a correction facility for the criminally insane for over a decade for murdering her childhood friend. Aeron is not insane but an Empath. She can feel what people are experiencing and can sometimes read their mind and even see bits of the future. Most people don’t believe her and the ones that do are afraid of her. When a new doctor enters the facility it may be the chance for Aeron to finally be free. But after spending her whole adult life locked up, being free may be harder than being locked away.
I really liked the empathetic powers Aeron had. While this does have a supernatural twist, it’s not too far out there. I mean a little but not too much. I recently read a book by Gerri Hill called Gillette Park. If you liked that book chances are high you will enjoy this one. Both characters have similar powers but Aeron reads people more whereas Grace from Gillette Park reads ghosts more.
As the book moves on there is a murder mystery with a serial killer who is preying on teenagers. The problem for Aeron is while she is the main person who can probably solve the case, as a murderer she is also the main subject. It sure added a twist to the mystery and you didn’t know what was going to happen to Aeron. The mystery itself was easy to figure out but it was still done well for this type of book.
This book doesn’t really have a romance. There is the start of something for Aeron, but just the start. Since she has been locked up since 16 she is still very stunted with her feelings so pushing her into a relationship in book one of a series would have been really unbelievable. I’m glad this is very slow-burn instead.
My one main issue is about Aeron’s family. They are horrible to Aeron just horrible. That part is fine for dramas sake, but the fact Aeron is willing to start forgiving them for what they did at the end, is like no, no, no! They don’t get to say a few words and be forgiven. That was annoying. I really wish Klaire was not trying to wrap things up in a little happy bow at the end. And they need to get the hell out of Aeron’s house while they are at it.
Anyway, besides that one major issue, I really had fun with this. I also like that Aeron’s story is just beginning so I can only imagine the type of mystery-thrillers left to come. Not to mention the potential romance I have a feeling will really pay off as the series goes on. This was Klaire’s debut so I’m interested to see how her writing improves. I think there are 6 total books right now with maybe one still to come? I’m not sure how soon I will get back to this series but I will be back. I’m hooked enough that I have to read more.
Aeron has been locked in a correction facility for the criminally insane for over a decade for murdering her childhood friend. Aeron is not insane but an Empath. She can feel what people are experiencing and can sometimes read their mind and even see bits of the future. Most people don’t believe her and the ones that do are afraid of her. When a new doctor enters the facility it may be the chance for Aeron to finally be free. But after spending her whole adult life locked up, being free may be harder than being locked away.
I really liked the empathetic powers Aeron had. While this does have a supernatural twist, it’s not too far out there. I mean a little but not too much. I recently read a book by Gerri Hill called Gillette Park. If you liked that book chances are high you will enjoy this one. Both characters have similar powers but Aeron reads people more whereas Grace from Gillette Park reads ghosts more.
As the book moves on there is a murder mystery with a serial killer who is preying on teenagers. The problem for Aeron is while she is the main person who can probably solve the case, as a murderer she is also the main subject. It sure added a twist to the mystery and you didn’t know what was going to happen to Aeron. The mystery itself was easy to figure out but it was still done well for this type of book.
This book doesn’t really have a romance. There is the start of something for Aeron, but just the start. Since she has been locked up since 16 she is still very stunted with her feelings so pushing her into a relationship in book one of a series would have been really unbelievable. I’m glad this is very slow-burn instead.
My one main issue is about Aeron’s family. They are horrible to Aeron just horrible. That part is fine for dramas sake, but the fact Aeron is willing to start forgiving them for what they did at the end, is like no, no, no! They don’t get to say a few words and be forgiven. That was annoying. I really wish Klaire was not trying to wrap things up in a little happy bow at the end. And they need to get the hell out of Aeron’s house while they are at it.
Anyway, besides that one major issue, I really had fun with this. I also like that Aeron’s story is just beginning so I can only imagine the type of mystery-thrillers left to come. Not to mention the potential romance I have a feeling will really pay off as the series goes on. This was Klaire’s debut so I’m interested to see how her writing improves. I think there are 6 total books right now with maybe one still to come? I’m not sure how soon I will get back to this series but I will be back. I’m hooked enough that I have to read more.
March 17, 2018
All the positive praise this gets baffles me. I didn't buy any of it, not only she was neglected, she was straight and abandoned and abused. No one comes out of that so good-natured, so kind to everyone (even to her own abusers). Her experiences don't reflect who she is and that's just not how it happens.
And her parents are literally the worst,
All of her suffering could be avoided if only the parents weren't so damn terrible.
God, this is the only book that has managed to make me this angry.
Not to mention the very predictable identity of the criminal that wasn't a surprise at all. And her powers are literally deus ex machina, they have no rules, they do everything and nothing at random times so the plot progression can be stopped or moved at author's whims. That's not how you properly write paranormal powers into your book. There should be boundaries.
Strong start with a stale middle and terrible end.
And her parents are literally the worst,
All of her suffering could be avoided if only the parents weren't so damn terrible.
God, this is the only book that has managed to make me this angry.
Not to mention the very predictable identity of the criminal that wasn't a surprise at all. And her powers are literally deus ex machina, they have no rules, they do everything and nothing at random times so the plot progression can be stopped or moved at author's whims. That's not how you properly write paranormal powers into your book. There should be boundaries.
Strong start with a stale middle and terrible end.
October 9, 2014
Locked in a mental institution for most of her adult life for a crime she didn't commit, Aeron is finally set to be released back to her hometown--a small, out of the way place called Oppidum. But for Aeron, it is no longer a home. Her own parents have practically disowned her. Everyone else either hates her or fears her. And the only person who ever cared, her Nan, is long dead. But Aeron is no ordinary troubled girl. She can feel other people's feelings and then some. For Aeron, it had always been more of a curse rather than a gift. And, as if it can't get any worse, the minute she returns to Oppidum, young women and girls start disappearing. Aeron senses the victims' suffering in real time. But her 'knowledge' of the crimes also means she is, in the eyes of the townsfolk, the prime suspect.
I haven't had such an intense and satisfying read in quite a while. I love the author's use of multiple POVs--first person for Aeron, third person for the others. Aeron is so perfectly drawn--cynical and hardened by loss and rejection, yet there is still a trace of that gentle, innocent and trusting girl hiding underneath all the baggage. The other characters (love interest, antagonists, dead people(!), other folks) are similarly drawn with care and attention. While the book's premise rests on the paranormal abilities of the protagonist and how she deals and comes to terms with it, this is a cut above the rest as it delves deeper to explore the various relationships that Aeron has with other people. In fact her relationship (or non-relationship) with her tough, police-chief father is, surprisingly, one of the most emotional highlights of the book. ) There is so much drama (yey!) its a wonder the book doesn't forget that it is primarily a thriller. I must admit I didn't see the twist coming. I can normally smell these things a mile a way, but I guess I got distracted by all the drama and that :)
5 stars
I haven't had such an intense and satisfying read in quite a while. I love the author's use of multiple POVs--first person for Aeron, third person for the others. Aeron is so perfectly drawn--cynical and hardened by loss and rejection, yet there is still a trace of that gentle, innocent and trusting girl hiding underneath all the baggage. The other characters (love interest, antagonists, dead people(!), other folks) are similarly drawn with care and attention. While the book's premise rests on the paranormal abilities of the protagonist and how she deals and comes to terms with it, this is a cut above the rest as it delves deeper to explore the various relationships that Aeron has with other people. In fact her relationship (or non-relationship) with her tough, police-chief father is, surprisingly, one of the most emotional highlights of the book. ) There is so much drama (yey!) its a wonder the book doesn't forget that it is primarily a thriller. I must admit I didn't see the twist coming. I can normally smell these things a mile a way, but I guess I got distracted by all the drama and that :)
5 stars
January 31, 2022
Good entertaining book! The writing was lacking in some places and too quick at others.
The way Aeron forgave her dad and the way her dad forgave Lilia so quick just didn’t sit right with me. At the end her dad definitely served redemption but there were moments before that where he was definitely undeserving of any and all care.
The way Aeron forgave her dad and the way her dad forgave Lilia so quick just didn’t sit right with me. At the end her dad definitely served redemption but there were moments before that where he was definitely undeserving of any and all care.
July 12, 2018
A real hero is someone who undergoes great troubles without giving up.
Aeron Lorelei has been unjustly accused of a murder at sixteen, condemned by all her town people, abandoned by her family and reclused in a psychiatric institute where her treatment is prolonged over time by a dishonest, corrupt medical doctor.
Not only that. Because of her remarkable medium and telepathic powers, she is generally held up as a freak since her childhood, and later considered as an actual witch, by the nasty town gossip.
She underogoes so much trouble, pain and injustice, that she loses her own self-confidence. Of course, she is hurt, scared and angry. And yet...
And yet, deep inside, she is a generous, innocent person, unable to hate even her persecutors.
She is a wonderful, complex character, full of contrast: frail but also strong, tormented but very sweet.
The adventure begins when the new doctor in charge decides to trust her and to send her back outside the institute. Aeron returns to Oppidum, her little hostile native village, exactly when a vicious serial killer starts to kill women in the area.
By her powers, Aeron is dragged into a powerful empathic connection both with the killer and the victims. She feels in herself their terrible sufferings and she communicates with them after their death.
But of course she is also accused to be the killer by the town, arranging an actual witch hunt.
So she must investigate to solve the mistery and try to save the victims as well as herself.
A sincere new friend, a regretful father and a formidable nanny ghost will be her unexpected allies in this gripping paranormal-mistery adventure.
Romance (lesbian, of course!) is just hinted in this novel, because Aeron really isn't in the right mood for a love story nor she has any time to.
However we have the sweet beginning of a new blooming feeling, and it's really delicate.
Hopefully to be continued in a new adventure of the series...!
Overall, a very pleasant reading.
Aeron Lorelei has been unjustly accused of a murder at sixteen, condemned by all her town people, abandoned by her family and reclused in a psychiatric institute where her treatment is prolonged over time by a dishonest, corrupt medical doctor.
Not only that. Because of her remarkable medium and telepathic powers, she is generally held up as a freak since her childhood, and later considered as an actual witch, by the nasty town gossip.
She underogoes so much trouble, pain and injustice, that she loses her own self-confidence. Of course, she is hurt, scared and angry. And yet...
And yet, deep inside, she is a generous, innocent person, unable to hate even her persecutors.
She is a wonderful, complex character, full of contrast: frail but also strong, tormented but very sweet.
The adventure begins when the new doctor in charge decides to trust her and to send her back outside the institute. Aeron returns to Oppidum, her little hostile native village, exactly when a vicious serial killer starts to kill women in the area.
By her powers, Aeron is dragged into a powerful empathic connection both with the killer and the victims. She feels in herself their terrible sufferings and she communicates with them after their death.
But of course she is also accused to be the killer by the town, arranging an actual witch hunt.
So she must investigate to solve the mistery and try to save the victims as well as herself.
A sincere new friend, a regretful father and a formidable nanny ghost will be her unexpected allies in this gripping paranormal-mistery adventure.
Romance (lesbian, of course!) is just hinted in this novel, because Aeron really isn't in the right mood for a love story nor she has any time to.
However we have the sweet beginning of a new blooming feeling, and it's really delicate.
Hopefully to be continued in a new adventure of the series...!
Overall, a very pleasant reading.
June 10, 2021
Ok I'm not sure why I liked it so much, but I really did. The writing is good, the premise is interesting and, even though I can't pinpoint what exactly catapulted it from 4 stars to 5 in my head, I'm not going to argue with my subconsciousness.
Five stars it is
Five stars it is
March 12, 2015
Yup, got me another favorite charcter to add to my list.
This book captivated me from the start. We get a deep insight into the troubled mind of Aeron, as she explains us what she can do. Troubled, because she can sense, feel and experience every emotion of everyone around her. And she never got a manual, so she has no clue how to deal with it. Realitively speaking she's at peace in the mental institution she was sentenced to 12 years ago, convicted of manslaughter when she was sixteen.
That peace is shattered when she meets the new psychiatrist, and she is released from the institution and thrown back into a life Aeron doesn't know, really doesn't want to know. She's sent off to her hometown and immediately, all the troubles Aeron thought were behind her, start up again. And it gets more sinister with every chapter, when young girls start disappearing and are found dead. Aeron finds herself in the epicenter of it all, the very subject of a modern witchhunt.
The book starts alternating POV's when she arrives. Usually I'm not a big fan of that, but here it somehow worked for me. Aeron's father plays a big role and the author does a very good job showing how a tormented man he really is. He wants to make things right, but he has everything against him, first and formost his own daughter.
The book strangely enough looses some momentum when the "action" starts ramping up. In my opinion, that has to do with the fact you immediately know who's behind it, the second the character is introduced. And I think Aeron's reactions when her past is finally revealed to her are a bit flat. If it were me, I would have levelled the entire goddamn town that has shunned her for all of her life. The explanation of some key character's motives wasn't as indepth as I hoped. Aeron's reaction is like: "Oh, OK." I think an entire book could be written to do that and would have been a good follow up. It's all crammed into a few chapters (which this novel has a lot of!).
It takes a long time before there even is a hint of romance but I'm sure that will be explored more in the sequel.
This book captivated me from the start. We get a deep insight into the troubled mind of Aeron, as she explains us what she can do. Troubled, because she can sense, feel and experience every emotion of everyone around her. And she never got a manual, so she has no clue how to deal with it. Realitively speaking she's at peace in the mental institution she was sentenced to 12 years ago, convicted of manslaughter when she was sixteen.
That peace is shattered when she meets the new psychiatrist, and she is released from the institution and thrown back into a life Aeron doesn't know, really doesn't want to know. She's sent off to her hometown and immediately, all the troubles Aeron thought were behind her, start up again. And it gets more sinister with every chapter, when young girls start disappearing and are found dead. Aeron finds herself in the epicenter of it all, the very subject of a modern witchhunt.
The book starts alternating POV's when she arrives. Usually I'm not a big fan of that, but here it somehow worked for me. Aeron's father plays a big role and the author does a very good job showing how a tormented man he really is. He wants to make things right, but he has everything against him, first and formost his own daughter.
The book strangely enough looses some momentum when the "action" starts ramping up. In my opinion, that has to do with the fact you immediately know who's behind it, the second the character is introduced. And I think Aeron's reactions when her past is finally revealed to her are a bit flat. If it were me, I would have levelled the entire goddamn town that has shunned her for all of her life. The explanation of some key character's motives wasn't as indepth as I hoped. Aeron's reaction is like: "Oh, OK." I think an entire book could be written to do that and would have been a good follow up. It's all crammed into a few chapters (which this novel has a lot of!).
It takes a long time before there even is a hint of romance but I'm sure that will be explored more in the sequel.
November 30, 2018
Fascinating and flawed at the same time. Aeron has quite the special talent and I look forward to seeing her use it in future novels.
I was less impressed with the overblown hatred shown by the townspeople and her own family. The murders were handled well but the killer was easy enough to identify.
I’m okay with suspending belief but
I do like the premise and am curious to see what becomes of Areon in her new career. An uneven beginning but I’m game to read more into the series.
3.5 stars
I was less impressed with the overblown hatred shown by the townspeople and her own family. The murders were handled well but the killer was easy enough to identify.
I’m okay with suspending belief but
I do like the premise and am curious to see what becomes of Areon in her new career. An uneven beginning but I’m game to read more into the series.
3.5 stars
May 12, 2015
Wonderful book. The beginning was especially strong and really setup the rest of the book.
There is a HEA and the plot does end too neatly, but by that point I would forgive many worse crimes given the roller coaster ride we had been on.
Looking forward to the next book due out soon.
There is a HEA and the plot does end too neatly, but by that point I would forgive many worse crimes given the roller coaster ride we had been on.
Looking forward to the next book due out soon.
August 15, 2019
Fantastic way to start a series!
Aeron, a woman with a gift and a troubled past, returns home from a correctional facility to find herself judged, and exiled. She finds herself embroiled in a crime for which the town immediately point the finger at her for blame, but is she just being set up?
I absolutely loved this story. It was heart-felt, deep with emotion and feeling, and fed my curiosity. There is nothing better than people with mystery, and Aeron has lots of it. Her story is unique, and I am so glad this is a series because I adore her, and can’t wait to find out more about her. Jody Klaire brilliant used Aeron’s gift as an Empath to create this uncertainty, but never letting enough doubt creep in for you to misjudge Aeron. You saw a kind, compassionate woman, who faced many challenges, but was always noble, trusting, and forgiving.
The story was a thrill! Paranormal, mystery, and tons of intrigue building quite the complex and intricate crime thriller. As a reader I was encapsulated by the events going on in town, and invested in working out if they were all connected and whether I should doubt Aeron. Using both first person, and third person points of view really helped add to the confusion and distortion, in deceiving the reader to create such uncertainty in this thriller.
I never could have guessed how intense this story was going to be, nor did I realise how emotional it was going to be until I started reading, but the journey was amazing, thought-provoking, and for me just a wonderful start to a series that is really going to keep me entertained, but also challenge me mentally.
Really every second of this story was amazing, and there was anything I didn’t like.
Aeron has to be one the most unique characters I have ever encountered. Everything she embodies is the ultimate reminder that no matter what, we are all human, we all have feelings, and we will be judged. Good or bad, you decide when it comes to Aeron, but I know I wouldn’t be frightened of her no matter what her capabilities, or her past. Aeron’s actions, thoughts, and feelings, were so well put to me in the first person narrative that I definitely felt a connection to her, and she is one of my all-time favourite characters. Nothing better than a misunderstood, misfit, with unique paranormal skills. Love Aeron.
The ultimate reminder to never judge a book (person) by its cover!!! You will be surprised.
Aeron, a woman with a gift and a troubled past, returns home from a correctional facility to find herself judged, and exiled. She finds herself embroiled in a crime for which the town immediately point the finger at her for blame, but is she just being set up?
I absolutely loved this story. It was heart-felt, deep with emotion and feeling, and fed my curiosity. There is nothing better than people with mystery, and Aeron has lots of it. Her story is unique, and I am so glad this is a series because I adore her, and can’t wait to find out more about her. Jody Klaire brilliant used Aeron’s gift as an Empath to create this uncertainty, but never letting enough doubt creep in for you to misjudge Aeron. You saw a kind, compassionate woman, who faced many challenges, but was always noble, trusting, and forgiving.
The story was a thrill! Paranormal, mystery, and tons of intrigue building quite the complex and intricate crime thriller. As a reader I was encapsulated by the events going on in town, and invested in working out if they were all connected and whether I should doubt Aeron. Using both first person, and third person points of view really helped add to the confusion and distortion, in deceiving the reader to create such uncertainty in this thriller.
I never could have guessed how intense this story was going to be, nor did I realise how emotional it was going to be until I started reading, but the journey was amazing, thought-provoking, and for me just a wonderful start to a series that is really going to keep me entertained, but also challenge me mentally.
Really every second of this story was amazing, and there was anything I didn’t like.
Aeron has to be one the most unique characters I have ever encountered. Everything she embodies is the ultimate reminder that no matter what, we are all human, we all have feelings, and we will be judged. Good or bad, you decide when it comes to Aeron, but I know I wouldn’t be frightened of her no matter what her capabilities, or her past. Aeron’s actions, thoughts, and feelings, were so well put to me in the first person narrative that I definitely felt a connection to her, and she is one of my all-time favourite characters. Nothing better than a misunderstood, misfit, with unique paranormal skills. Love Aeron.
The ultimate reminder to never judge a book (person) by its cover!!! You will be surprised.
April 13, 2015
I'd go 2.5 if I could.
January 6, 2023
I loved this so much.
January 1, 2023
I really enjoyed this one. Aeron is my baby. She's been through a lot. Oh how my baby suffered. I am so glad that everything is turning out better. Her mom is back, her dad is better and she got two baby sisters and soon-to-be girlfriend and esp Nan.
I can't wait to see what the remaining books in the series has to offer because this whole empath thing is really something I dig and fancy.
I can't wait to see what the remaining books in the series has to offer because this whole empath thing is really something I dig and fancy.
September 7, 2014
This was a compulsive read which I actually intended to buy in paperback, but as I had to know what happened next after reading a sample on kindle, I ended up getting the ebook instead (couldn't wait for the paperback to be released.) It follows the story of Aeron Lorelei, tom-boy, misfit and unwilling heroine, burdened with abilities that mean she will never be accepted by society as a whole. At age sixteen, Aeron goes into a kind of self-imposed exile in a secure mental facility, having taken the blame for the death of her friend's brother. But while she can run and hide from the town that hates her, the friend who said nothing when she took the blame and the father who never wanted her, she can't hide from her own gifts. Released back to her birthplace eleven years later, Aeron sparks off a chain of events that forces her to use her abilities unless she too wants to end up like the girls who've started to go missing...
Aeron's voice is very clear. She is a multi layered character - on the surface appearing antagonistic and misanthropic but beneath that warm, honest and honourable. It actually makes a lot of sense for someone who is empathic to be such a grouch - if you are constantly bombarded by other peoples thoughts and feelings, pains and joys, with no way to turn it off, then it is reasonable that you would try and put up barriers to keep people away from you - and perhaps resent them a little for the pain you feel because of them even as you wish you could help them. So while her character seems to spin on a dime it all makes a lot of sense and is very cleverly thought out. I did like Llys as well although I found the initial 'readings' on her a bit disconnected with what we later found out - it's not really explained but then reading someone isn't an exact science and Llys has had to 'be' a lot of people...
I found the small town setting, and the small town mind set that went with it, convincing, although such unmitigated hatred is hard to comprehend. I do now want my own mill - that sounded awesome. Oddly, though we never meet her, Nan is the character who best stays with me. She does an ample job of playing 'fate' in the events that unfold.
I felt that in some places the editing wasn't as good as it could have been from a professional publishing house - silly things like missed commas and the odd typo. Perhaps I noticed that more as I write myself. It was nothing that detracted from the story. I also wasn't sure about the cut-aways to third person POVs of people around Aeron. However these got stronger as the book went on - it might be personal preference; I am often suspicious of a narratorial voice coming in on what is essentially a first person POV novel.
The brief flashes we get of the killer's voice are exceptionally chilling and what actually happens to his victims is left mostly to the imagination with a few hints - this is pretty effective in establishing a character who is essentially as far removed from human as it is possible to be.
The novel's biggest strength is its fresh, engaging Voice. I read it in two days, pulled along by that voice and it was with a herculean effort that I didn't read the teaser from the next book at the end; I didn't need to. I already know I'm going to read it. Hats off for a brilliant debut novel and I look forward to the next one. Try this if you like a strong female lead who is also vulnerable, is you enjoy a foray into the paranormal or if you just want a darn good read with a twist of mystery thriller to it.
Aeron's voice is very clear. She is a multi layered character - on the surface appearing antagonistic and misanthropic but beneath that warm, honest and honourable. It actually makes a lot of sense for someone who is empathic to be such a grouch - if you are constantly bombarded by other peoples thoughts and feelings, pains and joys, with no way to turn it off, then it is reasonable that you would try and put up barriers to keep people away from you - and perhaps resent them a little for the pain you feel because of them even as you wish you could help them. So while her character seems to spin on a dime it all makes a lot of sense and is very cleverly thought out. I did like Llys as well although I found the initial 'readings' on her a bit disconnected with what we later found out - it's not really explained but then reading someone isn't an exact science and Llys has had to 'be' a lot of people...
I found the small town setting, and the small town mind set that went with it, convincing, although such unmitigated hatred is hard to comprehend. I do now want my own mill - that sounded awesome. Oddly, though we never meet her, Nan is the character who best stays with me. She does an ample job of playing 'fate' in the events that unfold.
I felt that in some places the editing wasn't as good as it could have been from a professional publishing house - silly things like missed commas and the odd typo. Perhaps I noticed that more as I write myself. It was nothing that detracted from the story. I also wasn't sure about the cut-aways to third person POVs of people around Aeron. However these got stronger as the book went on - it might be personal preference; I am often suspicious of a narratorial voice coming in on what is essentially a first person POV novel.
The brief flashes we get of the killer's voice are exceptionally chilling and what actually happens to his victims is left mostly to the imagination with a few hints - this is pretty effective in establishing a character who is essentially as far removed from human as it is possible to be.
The novel's biggest strength is its fresh, engaging Voice. I read it in two days, pulled along by that voice and it was with a herculean effort that I didn't read the teaser from the next book at the end; I didn't need to. I already know I'm going to read it. Hats off for a brilliant debut novel and I look forward to the next one. Try this if you like a strong female lead who is also vulnerable, is you enjoy a foray into the paranormal or if you just want a darn good read with a twist of mystery thriller to it.
July 12, 2015
a woman with a lot of heart
Aeron is a wonderful character with a lot of hard gifts. It's not completely clear what all of them are, or how they work, but they've turned her into an outcast all her life. I really liked the opening section when Aeron was in the institution and getting to know Dr. Lys. Their mutual hostility on first meeting and long struggle to trust each other was very well written, as were the following chapters on the first murders and the townspeople's suspicion of Aeron. Parts of it were hard to read, especially the scenes involving with Aeron's father, the Sheriff, and his harshness towards her. The story stumbled a bit for me once the govt. agency got involved. The coincidences began piling up and the explanations given for some of them were rather weak. In particular, those around Aeron's mother and the reasons why she'd abandoned her husband and baby daughter. The way the unit worked also made little sense to me, especially during the discussion of Aeron's possible guilt. The woman arguing for Aerin's innocence never offered her strongest reason for believing in Aeron (the fact that during the whole time Dr Lys had worked at the institution, Aeron had never attacked a person, just property). Then, too, some of the team members seemed rather professionally inept, especially the forensic tech. The ending was also rather weak. All's forgiven and seemingly forgot, even the townspeople's cruel slurs and vicious attacks on Aeron? Even the fact that Aeron's own father never told her that her mother wasn't his second wife? Or that she'd never known who her grandmother was? The reason for Aeron's mother abandoning her husband and baby seemed especially weak. Just because she had one vision, she had to go and never come back (and why? it was never clearly explained why she couldn't at least keep in touch with Aeron). At any rate, all that and somehow Aeron and her father just get over it, and now everything's fine, no hard feelings? (except for Bill's wife Mary, that is).
If it weren't for the ending I'd have given the book 5 stars for the unusual heroine with an anything-but-ordinary skill-set and a heartwrenching childhood, and for the way the relationship between the romantic leads develops. The weak ending and lack of crucial explanations knocks it down a star, but I'm hoping for better as the series continues.
Aeron is a wonderful character with a lot of hard gifts. It's not completely clear what all of them are, or how they work, but they've turned her into an outcast all her life. I really liked the opening section when Aeron was in the institution and getting to know Dr. Lys. Their mutual hostility on first meeting and long struggle to trust each other was very well written, as were the following chapters on the first murders and the townspeople's suspicion of Aeron. Parts of it were hard to read, especially the scenes involving with Aeron's father, the Sheriff, and his harshness towards her. The story stumbled a bit for me once the govt. agency got involved. The coincidences began piling up and the explanations given for some of them were rather weak. In particular, those around Aeron's mother and the reasons why she'd abandoned her husband and baby daughter. The way the unit worked also made little sense to me, especially during the discussion of Aeron's possible guilt. The woman arguing for Aerin's innocence never offered her strongest reason for believing in Aeron (the fact that during the whole time Dr Lys had worked at the institution, Aeron had never attacked a person, just property). Then, too, some of the team members seemed rather professionally inept, especially the forensic tech. The ending was also rather weak. All's forgiven and seemingly forgot, even the townspeople's cruel slurs and vicious attacks on Aeron? Even the fact that Aeron's own father never told her that her mother wasn't his second wife? Or that she'd never known who her grandmother was? The reason for Aeron's mother abandoning her husband and baby seemed especially weak. Just because she had one vision, she had to go and never come back (and why? it was never clearly explained why she couldn't at least keep in touch with Aeron). At any rate, all that and somehow Aeron and her father just get over it, and now everything's fine, no hard feelings? (except for Bill's wife Mary, that is).
If it weren't for the ending I'd have given the book 5 stars for the unusual heroine with an anything-but-ordinary skill-set and a heartwrenching childhood, and for the way the relationship between the romantic leads develops. The weak ending and lack of crucial explanations knocks it down a star, but I'm hoping for better as the series continues.
September 24, 2015
Intense and gripping plot line right from the start. The Empath tells the story of a trouble minded Aeron, who bares the gift of foresight and is able to read people. Aeron was locked up in a mental institution for a decade, and for a crime she hadn't commit.
When the new psychiatrist Dr. Llys arrives at the institute, she found out that Aeron was not a psychopath, but a person with a unique gift, she recommended for her release. In a decade's time, Aeron first step back to the home town where everyone shuns her out. When subsequent murders surface in the small town of Oppidum, Aeron was yet again dragged into the center of the storm.
Aeron aside, I also find Dr. Llys very intriguing. Without giving away the plot, you'll find more about who she is and her back story when you read through the book. I'm hoping that Aeron soon realize what an important person she has found in her life.
Absolutely loving the book and so glad this is going to be a series. I'm already on the second book!
When the new psychiatrist Dr. Llys arrives at the institute, she found out that Aeron was not a psychopath, but a person with a unique gift, she recommended for her release. In a decade's time, Aeron first step back to the home town where everyone shuns her out. When subsequent murders surface in the small town of Oppidum, Aeron was yet again dragged into the center of the storm.
Aeron aside, I also find Dr. Llys very intriguing. Without giving away the plot, you'll find more about who she is and her back story when you read through the book. I'm hoping that Aeron soon realize what an important person she has found in her life.
Absolutely loving the book and so glad this is going to be a series. I'm already on the second book!
June 22, 2025
I have to start by saying, that this series is not in my usual genre. But I loooove the trope with an Empath, so I thought: „why not?“ And it was such a good decision!
All in all, in the seven books, we have:
- paranormal, slow burn (but really really slow), muscles, found family, love (in all shapes and forms)
- violence, action, mystery, child trafficking, slaves, thriller, a lot of surprises and ghosts.
I am going to write one big review for all seven books, since I read them all at the same time, in quick succession. It took me less than a week to read them all and I did little else.
The Empath
it’s the beginning, solid, kept me reading 14/10, I love Aeron, I love Llys, thriller, very brutal
I was on the killer’s tail, but changed my mind like 3 times. Even tho it’s the first book, there are scenes, that are more important later on, which i loved! The beginning, when Aeron calls her Tess is one of them. Plus Llys's reaction to it only gets explained somewhere in the last book.
The scene, where Aeron finds out Llys's real Name is so cool.
My favorite scene:
All in all, I highly reccomend this series! I laughed, I cried, I was scared, tense, hiding, and literally every other emotion you can Imagine.
PS: I don’t know if I’ve said it, but I love Nan!
All in all, in the seven books, we have:
- paranormal, slow burn (but really really slow), muscles, found family, love (in all shapes and forms)
- violence, action, mystery, child trafficking, slaves, thriller, a lot of surprises and ghosts.
I am going to write one big review for all seven books, since I read them all at the same time, in quick succession. It took me less than a week to read them all and I did little else.
The Empath
it’s the beginning, solid, kept me reading 14/10, I love Aeron, I love Llys, thriller, very brutal
I was on the killer’s tail, but changed my mind like 3 times. Even tho it’s the first book, there are scenes, that are more important later on, which i loved! The beginning, when Aeron calls her Tess is one of them. Plus Llys's reaction to it only gets explained somewhere in the last book.
The scene, where Aeron finds out Llys's real Name is so cool.
My favorite scene:
„She beamed at me, her aura once again like a firework display. “What are you looking at when you do that?”
I shrugged, feeling like a snooper. “Your aura.“
„She cocked her head. “I have an aura?”
“Everyone does.” I felt a wave of guilt wash over me and shrugged. “I see your mood an’ well . . .”
“What?” Her gray eyes studied mine.
Ah heck, she must already know I was crazy. “It’s kinda pretty.”
Her smile lit up her face. “It is?”
My cheeks were so hot they got itchy. “
All in all, I highly reccomend this series! I laughed, I cried, I was scared, tense, hiding, and literally every other emotion you can Imagine.
PS: I don’t know if I’ve said it, but I love Nan!
October 22, 2014
2.5 stars, started out great then lost steam at about the half way mark
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 14, 2015
I was constantly engaged and if I had been more of an ardent reader, I would have had to have read it all in one go, however it was hard to put it down.
PS. I loved Mrs Squirrel...
PS. I loved Mrs Squirrel...
August 29, 2018
A terrific read
The beginning was brilliant. I was hooked straightaway with “The problem is that I know too much.” The powerful writing about Aeron’s past and how she coped with it and was learning to acknowledge her powers kept me gripped throughout the book. The scenes describing her life in the correctional mental facility were exceptional. I loved the writing style and the POV making it so easy to read. I was captivated by the troubled Aeron and Renee, and the enigmatic Lilia. Skilfully written by Jody Klaire the book was full of emotions, and left me wanting more. I have bought Blind Trust and the Above and Beyond Series is on my can’t wait to read list. Highly recommend this wonderful book.
The beginning was brilliant. I was hooked straightaway with “The problem is that I know too much.” The powerful writing about Aeron’s past and how she coped with it and was learning to acknowledge her powers kept me gripped throughout the book. The scenes describing her life in the correctional mental facility were exceptional. I loved the writing style and the POV making it so easy to read. I was captivated by the troubled Aeron and Renee, and the enigmatic Lilia. Skilfully written by Jody Klaire the book was full of emotions, and left me wanting more. I have bought Blind Trust and the Above and Beyond Series is on my can’t wait to read list. Highly recommend this wonderful book.
April 14, 2018
This review applies to the entire Above and Beyond series (Book 1-5)...
If you haven't read Jody Klaire's Above & Beyond series, I highly recommend it! OMG! It's epic! A mammoth of an arc spanning 7 books in total. Very original, unique, fantastic thrills, action-packed, funny, extremely heartbreaking and heartwarming jammed into one, romantic, truly memorable journey & adventures.
First off, it's NOT what you think. The premise reads like an adventure/thriller but it's SO MUCH more than that because not only is the MC (Aeron) a very unconventional character, how she feels, thinks, behaves, is very unique because of her circumstances.
Jody's skillful wordplay and story structure hook you in because you literally FEEL Aeron, her surroundings, the situations/scenarios, as well as the characters she comes into contact with, one of them in particular - which sets off a whole new plethora of emotions so hypnotic you simply MUST find out what's next! It's literally off-the-charts THRILLING! A bloody fantastic roller coaster ride! And you can't just read Book 1 ("The Empath")! You MUST, for your sanity, read the rest of them as Jody turns up the drama/humour/thrills/romance (the most unique, addictive, slow-burn you'll ever read, tbh!)/action a notch as you go through Book 2 onwards, with amazing secondary characters. Oh, I especially love the grandmother!! You'll know when you read the books!
Although the series is created around Aeron, it's the 2 other primary characters, Renee & Frei, who give the story arc depth, complexity & make Aeron whole. I call them the Terrific Trio! Their affinity & special connection with each other are not unlike Harry Potter, Ron & Hermione in the Harry Potter series. They go through all the adventures, thrills, drama & angst together.
All 5 (out of 7 that are released) books will make you laugh, cry, mad, angry, scream, cheer with the characters. The devastatingly slow-burn romance between Aeron & Renee...omg. Their language, their words, their actions will leave you yearning for more! Literally kills me with all the feels! (don't know how many "awwww!"'s I'd uttered whilst devouring the series!). As for Frei, you'll find out and discover her past and I can guarantee you it'll break your heart. But it'll give you a deeper level of understanding about why Frei's what/who she is. Extraordinarily heartfelt.
As the story progresses throughout the books, the action gets more intense. Klaire's masterful use of words to describe the heart-pounding action sequences will literally put you on the edge of your seat! It did for me every time there was one! It's like watching it in motion on-screen! Gobsmackingly spectacular! I was holding me breath during the entire car chase scene,& then the....scene...& then the... Errr...I'd better not reveal anymore because...spoilers! You simply have to read the books to find out!
I also want to add that the subject matter of the story arc that spans several books (which you'll find out) is what is happening to the world we live in today, although, unfortunately it's not being talked about and pretty much "hidden" because of the powers that be (money, power, influence) that have their hands in it. So many actually believe it's in the past & not happening anymore or just happening to certain groups of people. For Jody to use it to build her A&B world (perhaps shine a light on it, albeit it's fiction, but really makes one ponder at what's really behind the curtain of our world) is something that I'm grateful for & appreciative of. I don't think it's been told like that in fiction.
This series really, must be read chronologically as follows:
1. The Empath
2. Blind Trust
3. Untrained Eye
4. Hindsight
5. Noble Heart
6. Black Ridge Falls (not released yet)
7. Full Circle (not released yet)
**I'm hoping Book 6 will feature Renee's backstory and more about her.Simply her character - as an individual, as Aeron's romantic interest, as Frei's close/best friend. She's basically a badarse! And then, finally, everything comes full circle (as Book 7 alludes to, maybe?), we see the Terrific Trio ride into the sunset together!!! Well, that's my wish, anyway!**
All in all, the Above & Beyond series is a resounding MUST-READ!! You won't regret it!
Thank YOU so much, Jody, for creating this absolutely memorable series!! I put A&B alongside HP as one of my favourite series of all time! Well done, mate!
Now, Bedazzled Ink Publishing, I IMPLORE you to release the last 2 books SOON! PLEASE!!
If you haven't read Jody Klaire's Above & Beyond series, I highly recommend it! OMG! It's epic! A mammoth of an arc spanning 7 books in total. Very original, unique, fantastic thrills, action-packed, funny, extremely heartbreaking and heartwarming jammed into one, romantic, truly memorable journey & adventures.
First off, it's NOT what you think. The premise reads like an adventure/thriller but it's SO MUCH more than that because not only is the MC (Aeron) a very unconventional character, how she feels, thinks, behaves, is very unique because of her circumstances.
Jody's skillful wordplay and story structure hook you in because you literally FEEL Aeron, her surroundings, the situations/scenarios, as well as the characters she comes into contact with, one of them in particular - which sets off a whole new plethora of emotions so hypnotic you simply MUST find out what's next! It's literally off-the-charts THRILLING! A bloody fantastic roller coaster ride! And you can't just read Book 1 ("The Empath")! You MUST, for your sanity, read the rest of them as Jody turns up the drama/humour/thrills/romance (the most unique, addictive, slow-burn you'll ever read, tbh!)/action a notch as you go through Book 2 onwards, with amazing secondary characters. Oh, I especially love the grandmother!! You'll know when you read the books!
Although the series is created around Aeron, it's the 2 other primary characters, Renee & Frei, who give the story arc depth, complexity & make Aeron whole. I call them the Terrific Trio! Their affinity & special connection with each other are not unlike Harry Potter, Ron & Hermione in the Harry Potter series. They go through all the adventures, thrills, drama & angst together.
All 5 (out of 7 that are released) books will make you laugh, cry, mad, angry, scream, cheer with the characters. The devastatingly slow-burn romance between Aeron & Renee...omg. Their language, their words, their actions will leave you yearning for more! Literally kills me with all the feels! (don't know how many "awwww!"'s I'd uttered whilst devouring the series!). As for Frei, you'll find out and discover her past and I can guarantee you it'll break your heart. But it'll give you a deeper level of understanding about why Frei's what/who she is. Extraordinarily heartfelt.
As the story progresses throughout the books, the action gets more intense. Klaire's masterful use of words to describe the heart-pounding action sequences will literally put you on the edge of your seat! It did for me every time there was one! It's like watching it in motion on-screen! Gobsmackingly spectacular! I was holding me breath during the entire car chase scene,& then the....scene...& then the... Errr...I'd better not reveal anymore because...spoilers! You simply have to read the books to find out!
I also want to add that the subject matter of the story arc that spans several books (which you'll find out) is what is happening to the world we live in today, although, unfortunately it's not being talked about and pretty much "hidden" because of the powers that be (money, power, influence) that have their hands in it. So many actually believe it's in the past & not happening anymore or just happening to certain groups of people. For Jody to use it to build her A&B world (perhaps shine a light on it, albeit it's fiction, but really makes one ponder at what's really behind the curtain of our world) is something that I'm grateful for & appreciative of. I don't think it's been told like that in fiction.
This series really, must be read chronologically as follows:
1. The Empath
2. Blind Trust
3. Untrained Eye
4. Hindsight
5. Noble Heart
6. Black Ridge Falls (not released yet)
7. Full Circle (not released yet)
**I'm hoping Book 6 will feature Renee's backstory and more about her.Simply her character - as an individual, as Aeron's romantic interest, as Frei's close/best friend. She's basically a badarse! And then, finally, everything comes full circle (as Book 7 alludes to, maybe?), we see the Terrific Trio ride into the sunset together!!! Well, that's my wish, anyway!**
All in all, the Above & Beyond series is a resounding MUST-READ!! You won't regret it!
Thank YOU so much, Jody, for creating this absolutely memorable series!! I put A&B alongside HP as one of my favourite series of all time! Well done, mate!
Now, Bedazzled Ink Publishing, I IMPLORE you to release the last 2 books SOON! PLEASE!!
May 4, 2015
I enjoy opportunities to read offerings from new authors. I admit that I don’t get to do it often. Life keeps me pretty busy. So busy, in fact, that I don’t get to read often at all. Full stop. That saddens me because I love reading so much. Strange. Seems like I had more time to read when I was working. Huh.
Happily, however, I was able to find time to read The Empath by Jody Klaire (Bedazzled Ink). I’m glad I did.
I was expecting to read a book that fell under the Paranormal genre. It’s the first place my brain goes to when I see words like “empath” in a title. Or, perhaps even SciFi/Fantasy, with visions of Deanna Troi dancing through my head. (Though, that may just say more about me and what/who dances through my head. TMI?) The back cover description, however, told me different. Okay. A mystery. Cool. I could deal with that. I like a good mystery.
Well, my friends, this was a good mystery!
The opening of the book drew me in. I’m not often a fan of the first person point-of-view, but this worked for me. I like that Aeron tells her story. I like that insight. This being a mystery, however, it’s necessary for varying points of view. Klaire chose to have the story told from other characters’ points-of-view, as well. However, only Aeron told her own story. The others were told by a third-person narrator. I like this choice. It keeps the focus on Aeron. Where it should be.
Usually with a mystery, I expect the first chapter to dive right into things. Murder! Mayhem! But not so with The Empath. Instead, we get a chance to get to know Aeron and get some insight into the way she operates. Rather than a mundane character description (which would be so easy to do), Klaire keeps it interesting by having Aeron interact with various people in various situations. Her actions and reactions do an excellent job of showing readers what we need to know before the heart of the mystery is upon us. It’s excellent back story without being an “information dump.” Nicely done.
Once the mystery in The Empath was introduced, it was fast and hard. But, at the same time, it was delightfully slow to develop. Klaire took the time to lay out the plot. The twists and turns kept things interesting and always moving forward. Even events that you wouldn’t expect to be related to the crime were deftly folded into the plot and given purpose. At no point did I think, “Well, that was a nice scene, but what does it have to do with solving these murders?” It all made sense. It was crafted well.
I figured out the mystery. BUT…I didn’t figure it out until about 5 pages before it was revealed! For me, that’s pretty darned awesome. I can usually figure it out 1/2 to 3/4 of the way through a book. It’s one of the reasons I don’t usually read mysteries – they don’t keep me hanging long enough. But Klaire kept me hanging!
The Empath is the first in a planed series of books. I’m looking forward to learning more about Aeron and her circle of family and friends. The characters are rich and multi-layered, but there’s so much more to uncover about all of them. I’m glad Klaire is going to let us into their lives again.
So, if you get the chance, get your hands on The Empath by Jody Klaire. You’ll thank me for it. (And if you want to send flowers and chocolate…or Deanna Troi…as a way of thanks, I won’t complain.)
Happily, however, I was able to find time to read The Empath by Jody Klaire (Bedazzled Ink). I’m glad I did.
I was expecting to read a book that fell under the Paranormal genre. It’s the first place my brain goes to when I see words like “empath” in a title. Or, perhaps even SciFi/Fantasy, with visions of Deanna Troi dancing through my head. (Though, that may just say more about me and what/who dances through my head. TMI?) The back cover description, however, told me different. Okay. A mystery. Cool. I could deal with that. I like a good mystery.
Well, my friends, this was a good mystery!
The opening of the book drew me in. I’m not often a fan of the first person point-of-view, but this worked for me. I like that Aeron tells her story. I like that insight. This being a mystery, however, it’s necessary for varying points of view. Klaire chose to have the story told from other characters’ points-of-view, as well. However, only Aeron told her own story. The others were told by a third-person narrator. I like this choice. It keeps the focus on Aeron. Where it should be.
Usually with a mystery, I expect the first chapter to dive right into things. Murder! Mayhem! But not so with The Empath. Instead, we get a chance to get to know Aeron and get some insight into the way she operates. Rather than a mundane character description (which would be so easy to do), Klaire keeps it interesting by having Aeron interact with various people in various situations. Her actions and reactions do an excellent job of showing readers what we need to know before the heart of the mystery is upon us. It’s excellent back story without being an “information dump.” Nicely done.
Once the mystery in The Empath was introduced, it was fast and hard. But, at the same time, it was delightfully slow to develop. Klaire took the time to lay out the plot. The twists and turns kept things interesting and always moving forward. Even events that you wouldn’t expect to be related to the crime were deftly folded into the plot and given purpose. At no point did I think, “Well, that was a nice scene, but what does it have to do with solving these murders?” It all made sense. It was crafted well.
I figured out the mystery. BUT…I didn’t figure it out until about 5 pages before it was revealed! For me, that’s pretty darned awesome. I can usually figure it out 1/2 to 3/4 of the way through a book. It’s one of the reasons I don’t usually read mysteries – they don’t keep me hanging long enough. But Klaire kept me hanging!
The Empath is the first in a planed series of books. I’m looking forward to learning more about Aeron and her circle of family and friends. The characters are rich and multi-layered, but there’s so much more to uncover about all of them. I’m glad Klaire is going to let us into their lives again.
So, if you get the chance, get your hands on The Empath by Jody Klaire. You’ll thank me for it. (And if you want to send flowers and chocolate…or Deanna Troi…as a way of thanks, I won’t complain.)
October 25, 2014
This is a very impressive novel from a debut author!
Aeron Lorelei has to contend with constant injustice and rejection not only from strangers but also from her family. Following the release from a mental institution for committing manslaughter through the rollercoaster ride of her freedom, we are witness to her amazing big heart and compassion for others.
Aeron possesses gifts that she never wants others to witness but can they help with a serial killer on the loose?
The author shows us the best and the worst in human nature with great skill and use of dramatic tension and as a result I could not put this book down! I cannot wait to read the rest in the series!
This is the first book that I've read, that I have felt the need to publically review to allow other readers to take a chance on it regardless of what genre you usually read.
If you go check out the online preview trust me you will be hooked! As you read you will realise there is something for everyone to enjoy in this book and the fade to black when the killer appears on the page allows the reader to draw their own conclusions using their imagination.
This is definitely one to read so add it to your read list, but make sure when you sit down to read it you have enough time to read without putting this down!
Aeron Lorelei has to contend with constant injustice and rejection not only from strangers but also from her family. Following the release from a mental institution for committing manslaughter through the rollercoaster ride of her freedom, we are witness to her amazing big heart and compassion for others.
Aeron possesses gifts that she never wants others to witness but can they help with a serial killer on the loose?
The author shows us the best and the worst in human nature with great skill and use of dramatic tension and as a result I could not put this book down! I cannot wait to read the rest in the series!
This is the first book that I've read, that I have felt the need to publically review to allow other readers to take a chance on it regardless of what genre you usually read.
If you go check out the online preview trust me you will be hooked! As you read you will realise there is something for everyone to enjoy in this book and the fade to black when the killer appears on the page allows the reader to draw their own conclusions using their imagination.
This is definitely one to read so add it to your read list, but make sure when you sit down to read it you have enough time to read without putting this down!
October 13, 2018
Breathtaking. Can't stop reading. Thrilling. With a good dash of humour! '
September 17, 2014
I'd been SO looking forward to reading this; I started reading around lunchtime and did not stop until 10pm the same day, when I finished it. Jody Klaire draws you so deeply into the world of Oppidum, you won't want to leave.
Aeron Lorolei's story is gripping, tense, brutal in places - yet never graphic. Twisted through a series of kidnappings and murders - which Aeron is blamed for because of her past - is a touching love story which I am looking forward to seeing develop over the course of the rest of the series.
If you can 'squirrel' yourself away to read this uninterrupted, do - you won't be disappointed. A stunning debut novel.
Aeron Lorolei's story is gripping, tense, brutal in places - yet never graphic. Twisted through a series of kidnappings and murders - which Aeron is blamed for because of her past - is a touching love story which I am looking forward to seeing develop over the course of the rest of the series.
If you can 'squirrel' yourself away to read this uninterrupted, do - you won't be disappointed. A stunning debut novel.
October 17, 2014
This was a great story with an unusual protagonist. Aeron's abilities appear to be more hindrance than help and we are taken on her traumatic journey, agonising with her as she experiences not only rejection by the community she has to return to but her family also. Friendless and alone she re-starts her life with barely enough to survive. Jody Klaire takes us rushing along through Aeron's trials and tribulations with scarcely time to take a breath. The pace is always fast but we never lose sight of our heroine's big heart and humanity. To cap it all we have a serial killer on the loose, what more could you want. What an enjoyable series this should be.
May 8, 2019
Not the typical
This was an interesting read. I got sucked in to the story quickly and couldn’t wait to turn the page. It’s certainly not your typical lesbian fiction and was a most welcome change. Excellent.
This was an interesting read. I got sucked in to the story quickly and couldn’t wait to turn the page. It’s certainly not your typical lesbian fiction and was a most welcome change. Excellent.
August 11, 2023
Second Best Read This Year
Positives: Great plot, storyline, interesting characters, and leaves you wanting more. I normally have trouble reading books over 300 pages, but I wasn't bothered at all with the 500+ and almost didn't want it to end. (Don't want to go into it too much detail in case I give anything away, but it's definitely worth the read!!!)
Negatives: I almost set the book aside for using apostrophes instead of parenthesis for speakers and usage of them for omission for country accent when a character wasn't speaking or having direct thoughts. This was an unusual practice for me, and I had my eye twitching every time I saw it. (Oddly enough, you get used to it.) That and it bothered me when "wasn't" was replaced with "weren't" one too many times. >.< (Yes, I have grammar issues).
I'm from Georgia, so I'm no stranger to country accents and how it's spoken, but there's a reason why most northerners view us as a bunch of uneducated hicks. Improper English being one of them. We omit words and butcher quite a bit of the English language, but I think that should be left to speakers. I suppose you could place the descriptions as being part of the character's thoughts... but it seemed a little excessive to me.
Conclusion:
Second Best book I've read this year, and the only negative thing I can say about it is personal writing pet peeves. If it bothers you too, don't give up on it! I swear you won't regret it. I know I don't.
Positives: Great plot, storyline, interesting characters, and leaves you wanting more. I normally have trouble reading books over 300 pages, but I wasn't bothered at all with the 500+ and almost didn't want it to end. (Don't want to go into it too much detail in case I give anything away, but it's definitely worth the read!!!)
Negatives: I almost set the book aside for using apostrophes instead of parenthesis for speakers and usage of them for omission for country accent when a character wasn't speaking or having direct thoughts. This was an unusual practice for me, and I had my eye twitching every time I saw it. (Oddly enough, you get used to it.) That and it bothered me when "wasn't" was replaced with "weren't" one too many times. >.< (Yes, I have grammar issues).
I'm from Georgia, so I'm no stranger to country accents and how it's spoken, but there's a reason why most northerners view us as a bunch of uneducated hicks. Improper English being one of them. We omit words and butcher quite a bit of the English language, but I think that should be left to speakers. I suppose you could place the descriptions as being part of the character's thoughts... but it seemed a little excessive to me.
Conclusion:
Second Best book I've read this year, and the only negative thing I can say about it is personal writing pet peeves. If it bothers you too, don't give up on it! I swear you won't regret it. I know I don't.
September 29, 2018
Read this book after the author told me about it when I said I was into crime fiction. Jody certainly sold it to me and I'm glad I took a chance on this story.
The chapters at first are short and sharp drawing you into the story and what happens next. The main character, Aeron Lorelei is a strong woman with a gift that she finds very frightening and isn't sure what to do with.
At first the gift gets her into serious trouble, but eventually, with the help of her friend Renee and her Nan, Aeron is able to put it to good use.
The crime story is compelling reading and time seems to run away while you're engrossed in the story.
The story is well written and I will certainly be recommending the book to all my friends.
The chapters at first are short and sharp drawing you into the story and what happens next. The main character, Aeron Lorelei is a strong woman with a gift that she finds very frightening and isn't sure what to do with.
At first the gift gets her into serious trouble, but eventually, with the help of her friend Renee and her Nan, Aeron is able to put it to good use.
The crime story is compelling reading and time seems to run away while you're engrossed in the story.
The story is well written and I will certainly be recommending the book to all my friends.
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