What do you think?
Rate this book
Diventando: The Vessel
Owen McIntyre is no stranger to the Grim Reaper. Diagnosed with leukemia at the age of fifteen, he's spent the last ten years slowly dying. With only two weeks until his next checkup, Owen's body is already warning him that he is no longer in remission. Tired of the countless meds and chemo, not to mention the way his family coddles him, he decides to live and die on his own terms and forgo treatment. When he meets a lively college professor named Turk, conquering the man becomes part of Owen's bucket list. But as Owen gets to know Turk, he starts to see him as more than a fling, a luxury that a dying man doesn't have.
But what if, suddenly, everything Owen knew to be true turned out to be a web of lies and deceit—even his diagnosis of cancer?
Taken hostage, tied to a bed and subjected to painful experimentation, Owen's nightmare of leukemia is a far cry from the horrors he will face. No longer able to trust anyone in his life, including Turk, Owen is alone and cut off from the world. He has to make the hard decision to trust those who have betrayed him, including Turk (for whom he deeply cares), or die a lonely death.
Soon, with time running out, Owen will not only fight to live, but fight to want to live again. But will that be enough to save him from the evil that lurks inside his body and mind?
Gay / Dark Fantasy / Paranormal
230 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 30, 2014
3 people are currently reading
74 people want to read
About the author
Jake C. Wallace
16 books225 followersJake C. Wallace (JC) started writing from a young age, but took a break for marriage, kids, and college (in that order). He started writing again and publishing three years ago. At night and on the weekends, Jake writes about all things men, believing there is nothing hotter than two men finding and loving one another, whether for a night or forever. An avid reader of M/M romance, Jake loves a good twist of a plot, HEA, HFN, or tragic ending. He also writes what his bestie calls HUNK (Happy Until the Next Kidnapping). In his daytime hours, Jake works with individuals with autism and behavior problems. He is owned by a beautiful partner, three kids, two grandchildren. He lives in the beautiful Northern VT.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
January 27, 2018
Cross-posted at Outlaw Reviews and at Shelf Inflicted
Well, this book was a little different than I expected. I should have paid closer attention to the title, for it suggests what will eventually happen in this story. That’s not a bad thing, if you like suspense and supernatural elements with your romance. Normally I do, but I found that I was far more interested in 25-year-old Owen McIntyre’s journey with a terminal illness and the changes he undergoes as he seeks independence from his family, learns to live in the moment, comes to terms with death, and falls in love with Turk, who was just supposed to be a fling.
Complications arise in the form of Owen’s strange nightmares, Turk’s unusual research on demon possessions, Owen’s sudden onset of symptoms after being in remission for two years, and a hospital visit that makes his life a nightmare. As he is strapped down to a stretcher, he learns that his cancer diagnosis is a hoax, that he will not leave the hospital, and that there’s no one he can trust, not even Turk.
I know this sounds like it’s going to be a tension-filled thrill ride; strangely, this is the point where the story begins to lose steam. I would have liked more professionalism and dialogue between the medical staff and less of Owen’s rambly inner thoughts. The secondary characters, including Turk, could have been developed more. I felt Turk’s and Owen’s relationship moved too quickly in the face of a serious breach of trust. The action scenes moved along without a sense of urgency, and I never felt that Owen was in any real danger despite his callous treatment at the hands of the medical staff.
The writing was uneven and didn’t flow, particularly in the second half. Minor errors jumped out at me and pulled me out of the story.
As much as I enjoyed seeing Owen and Turk get their happy ending, I’m glad it’s over.
*Book provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
Well, this book was a little different than I expected. I should have paid closer attention to the title, for it suggests what will eventually happen in this story. That’s not a bad thing, if you like suspense and supernatural elements with your romance. Normally I do, but I found that I was far more interested in 25-year-old Owen McIntyre’s journey with a terminal illness and the changes he undergoes as he seeks independence from his family, learns to live in the moment, comes to terms with death, and falls in love with Turk, who was just supposed to be a fling.
Complications arise in the form of Owen’s strange nightmares, Turk’s unusual research on demon possessions, Owen’s sudden onset of symptoms after being in remission for two years, and a hospital visit that makes his life a nightmare. As he is strapped down to a stretcher, he learns that his cancer diagnosis is a hoax, that he will not leave the hospital, and that there’s no one he can trust, not even Turk.
I know this sounds like it’s going to be a tension-filled thrill ride; strangely, this is the point where the story begins to lose steam. I would have liked more professionalism and dialogue between the medical staff and less of Owen’s rambly inner thoughts. The secondary characters, including Turk, could have been developed more. I felt Turk’s and Owen’s relationship moved too quickly in the face of a serious breach of trust. The action scenes moved along without a sense of urgency, and I never felt that Owen was in any real danger despite his callous treatment at the hands of the medical staff.
The writing was uneven and didn’t flow, particularly in the second half. Minor errors jumped out at me and pulled me out of the story.
As much as I enjoyed seeing Owen and Turk get their happy ending, I’m glad it’s over.
*Book provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
October 3, 2014
I totally loved
First, I have to say I have not really read any "demon-succubus-incubus-genre either in the m/f or m/m romances. I just did not like the idea of "demons" probably a carry over of my Catholic upbringing. However, I thought this book rocked. It had the angst, the up and downs between the two m/c Owen and Turk; each hiding secrets but wanting the other. It was sweet and some WTF moments. Pretty much read it in a day (breaking, unfortunately to work). I like JC Wallace unique, creative stamp on the demon lore. I have loved everything I have read by JC Wallace from my first: Curiosity Killed Shaney to this one. I like the way he structure his sentences, his word usage and his creative imagination. A pet peeve of mine: awkward sentences. If I have difficulty reading it, I put it down. I would recommend this book to any one wanting an entertaining read.
First, I have to say I have not really read any "demon-succubus-incubus-genre either in the m/f or m/m romances. I just did not like the idea of "demons" probably a carry over of my Catholic upbringing. However, I thought this book rocked. It had the angst, the up and downs between the two m/c Owen and Turk; each hiding secrets but wanting the other. It was sweet and some WTF moments. Pretty much read it in a day (breaking, unfortunately to work). I like JC Wallace unique, creative stamp on the demon lore. I have loved everything I have read by JC Wallace from my first: Curiosity Killed Shaney to this one. I like the way he structure his sentences, his word usage and his creative imagination. A pet peeve of mine: awkward sentences. If I have difficulty reading it, I put it down. I would recommend this book to any one wanting an entertaining read.
June 13, 2015
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
-
I'm… honestly glad that this wasn't the first book by this author that I've read. Okay, that came out harsher than I expected. But in my defence, I really didn't know what to make of this book for the longest time.
Owen has been sick with leukemia for most of his life. He had been in and out of chemo and during his most recent remission, had moved to live with his aunt and cousin. It was there that he met Turk and unfortunately, it was also shortly after that meeting that his sickness came back with a vengeance. He was rushed to the hospital and instead of the typical bad news he expected, he learned that he was never sick to begin with. Instead, there was a demon inhabiting his body and the hospital he happened to find himself in was one that forcefully carried out research on the possessed.
The story was odd to say the least. Not bad or weird or anything, but just… strange. Then the ball started rolling and the pieces all fell into place. Well, sort of. Everything was completely sane or normal one second and utterly unbelievably insane the next. And I guess, the fact that it all happened within two pages sort of made the story seem farfetched. (Yes, I just called a fantasy with demons farfetched...)
That I didn't find any of the characters particularly likeable didn't make things any easier. I didn't like Owen at all and Turk was only marginally better. While I can't fault Owen's take charge attitude, especially in the face of his predicament, it still didn't sit right with me. He wasn't an endearing character by any means. He was someone who thought they only had weeks left to live and was going to do whatever the hell they wanted. Regardless of the consequences or who would end up hurt. Granted, he did change quite a lot as the story progressed.
I honestly felt like the story was too short. There were a lot of different characters, each of which came with a ton of backstory of their own, and nothing was really fleshed out. I think the other issue I had was with Owen as the sole narrator. A dual narration between Owen and Turk probably would have carried the story much better.
Overall, I'd say the book was okay, if not a little rough around the edges. The story did manage to paint an interesting world and I would love to see a story told from the perspective of a hunter instead of a possessed.
-
I'm… honestly glad that this wasn't the first book by this author that I've read. Okay, that came out harsher than I expected. But in my defence, I really didn't know what to make of this book for the longest time.
Owen has been sick with leukemia for most of his life. He had been in and out of chemo and during his most recent remission, had moved to live with his aunt and cousin. It was there that he met Turk and unfortunately, it was also shortly after that meeting that his sickness came back with a vengeance. He was rushed to the hospital and instead of the typical bad news he expected, he learned that he was never sick to begin with. Instead, there was a demon inhabiting his body and the hospital he happened to find himself in was one that forcefully carried out research on the possessed.
The story was odd to say the least. Not bad or weird or anything, but just… strange. Then the ball started rolling and the pieces all fell into place. Well, sort of. Everything was completely sane or normal one second and utterly unbelievably insane the next. And I guess, the fact that it all happened within two pages sort of made the story seem farfetched. (Yes, I just called a fantasy with demons farfetched...)
That I didn't find any of the characters particularly likeable didn't make things any easier. I didn't like Owen at all and Turk was only marginally better. While I can't fault Owen's take charge attitude, especially in the face of his predicament, it still didn't sit right with me. He wasn't an endearing character by any means. He was someone who thought they only had weeks left to live and was going to do whatever the hell they wanted. Regardless of the consequences or who would end up hurt. Granted, he did change quite a lot as the story progressed.
I honestly felt like the story was too short. There were a lot of different characters, each of which came with a ton of backstory of their own, and nothing was really fleshed out. I think the other issue I had was with Owen as the sole narrator. A dual narration between Owen and Turk probably would have carried the story much better.
Overall, I'd say the book was okay, if not a little rough around the edges. The story did manage to paint an interesting world and I would love to see a story told from the perspective of a hunter instead of a possessed.
September 12, 2015
The author was kind enough to provide me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Unlike many other reviewers, this book failed to impress me. I really liked the beginning, where Owen still believes he's about to die from leukemia. His internal struggle was very well written and I found myself feeling heartbroken for him. I loved how supportive his family was, especially his cousin. And then Turk shows up and Owen thinks that he might just be worth to go through yet another round of grueling chemo-therapy.
Then Owen goes to a different doctor to get his leukemia results. At the hospital, he gets kidnapped and wakes up in some weird lab, where doctors and nurses run all sorts of strange tests. Turns out he's got a demon inside him. While this was an interesting idea, I just didn't really get the whole thing. How does a demon transfer from father to son? The fantasy part just felt kind of random, as if the author needed a reason to make a relationship between Owena and Turk impossible.
I wasn't very fond of the insta-love between Turk and Owen, either. They barely know each other, have a couple of dates that go wrong and wham, bam, he's the love of my life, no matter what. The insta-lust was, under the circumstances, fine, but the feelings could have used more time to grow.
The ending was what really bothered me, though. All of it was somehow too easy, too simple, and too fast. And then the author just had to find a love interest for EVERYBODY involved. Ugh, how I hate that.
Overall, this book wasn't really as good as expected. The first part was interesting and well-written, but the fantasy aspect could have used more work.
Unlike many other reviewers, this book failed to impress me. I really liked the beginning, where Owen still believes he's about to die from leukemia. His internal struggle was very well written and I found myself feeling heartbroken for him. I loved how supportive his family was, especially his cousin. And then Turk shows up and Owen thinks that he might just be worth to go through yet another round of grueling chemo-therapy.
Then Owen goes to a different doctor to get his leukemia results. At the hospital, he gets kidnapped and wakes up in some weird lab, where doctors and nurses run all sorts of strange tests. Turns out he's got a demon inside him. While this was an interesting idea, I just didn't really get the whole thing. How does a demon transfer from father to son? The fantasy part just felt kind of random, as if the author needed a reason to make a relationship between Owena and Turk impossible.
I wasn't very fond of the insta-love between Turk and Owen, either. They barely know each other, have a couple of dates that go wrong and wham, bam, he's the love of my life, no matter what. The insta-lust was, under the circumstances, fine, but the feelings could have used more time to grow.
The ending was what really bothered me, though. All of it was somehow too easy, too simple, and too fast. And then the author just had to find a love interest for EVERYBODY involved. Ugh, how I hate that.
Overall, this book wasn't really as good as expected. The first part was interesting and well-written, but the fantasy aspect could have used more work.
April 20, 2017
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
If you haven't read the blurb you wouldn't know that it was a paranormal book. I had read the blurb a while before actually starting to read the book so I didn't really remember what it was about. Only as I progressed through the book did I remember. This story starts off really normal and because of that I was a bit reluctant to continue reading. I'm glad I continued reading past the first chapter because it definitely became interesting after that.
The book is not just an m/m romance. I mean yes, it's a book about someone who has pretty much given up fighting for his life and then finding that one person who might actually be worth living for, but it's also basically about trust; how to know who to trust and when.
I really enjoyed reading the book, but the reason why I didn't give it full 5 stars is because it ended way too fast. Practically everything happened really fast in the book.
So overall it was a great read, very easy to read and lots of vivid imagination on paper/screen. I'd definitely recommend it to anyone who is looking for a fun and quick read.
If you haven't read the blurb you wouldn't know that it was a paranormal book. I had read the blurb a while before actually starting to read the book so I didn't really remember what it was about. Only as I progressed through the book did I remember. This story starts off really normal and because of that I was a bit reluctant to continue reading. I'm glad I continued reading past the first chapter because it definitely became interesting after that.
The book is not just an m/m romance. I mean yes, it's a book about someone who has pretty much given up fighting for his life and then finding that one person who might actually be worth living for, but it's also basically about trust; how to know who to trust and when.
I really enjoyed reading the book, but the reason why I didn't give it full 5 stars is because it ended way too fast. Practically everything happened really fast in the book.
So overall it was a great read, very easy to read and lots of vivid imagination on paper/screen. I'd definitely recommend it to anyone who is looking for a fun and quick read.
September 11, 2014
This is a hard review for me to write. I am a huge fan of Mr. Wallace and because of that I guess I hold his writing to higher standards. I have become accustomed to reading his books and having him throw curve balls at me every time I think I know how a plotline will progress. However, in Diventando while he was able to still get me on a few details the main plot line of the story seemed very predictable and almost formulaic to me. Saying all this I have to make sure you understand that I did not dislike the story by any means, I just expected more from Mr. Wallace.
One of the things I love about Mr. Wallace is how his characters are always so well developed and believable. From the beginning of the book you fall in love with Owen and Turk and can’t help but pull for them throughout the book. Owen is the cute video game nerd who is getting tired of battling cancer and Turk is the handsome university professor who gives him a reason to fight again.
Overall this is a wonderful m/m paranormal romance and I look forward to more books by Mr. Wallace.
One of the things I love about Mr. Wallace is how his characters are always so well developed and believable. From the beginning of the book you fall in love with Owen and Turk and can’t help but pull for them throughout the book. Owen is the cute video game nerd who is getting tired of battling cancer and Turk is the handsome university professor who gives him a reason to fight again.
Overall this is a wonderful m/m paranormal romance and I look forward to more books by Mr. Wallace.
September 13, 2014
Jc Wallace has such a creative, vivid and amazing imagination. This story was awesome from start to finish, it started With Owen and Turk meeting, wow talk about sparks flying. Wow! I loved Owen from the beginning, his thoughts, what he went through and how strong he is...Turk oh Turk, he's a warrior through and through, so damn handsome, sweet and smitten with Owen. A lot of emotional ups and downs with Owen and a shit ton of WTF moments, oh my! I loved this story. It's so creative, unique and so damn loving I thought my heart was going to stop. Love Wayne too wow! His character is so supportive and loving...I was in awe of the writing throughout and the creativity and the ups and downs, great story. Love reading stories by JC Wallace, 5 huge stars review y Nanee at upallnightreadallday.blogspot.com
December 1, 2014
4.5 star review by Roberta
Wow!! That’s the thing that comes to mind from this book!! I read a previous book by JC and I found it really engrossing, so I was really happy when this book came up for review. I wanted to see if JC could live up to the expectation I had regarding his work. I can say….it truly did!!
Owen…wow this character just made my heart hurt. I wanted to cry reading his story. That this young man had been living the last 10 years of his young life thinking that he had cancer. That this was his life. How he’s trying to live his life away from home for the first time. I just felt for him. Owen….this character broke my heart and yet, he was still this really great heart. His love for his family and just wanting to be normal. I swear…Owen is one character that I will ALWAYS remember. I liked him from jump and as he was going through all of the horrible things that started to befall him…he still had this wonderful heart and such a kind soul. This character just called to every instinct that I had to just hold him tight and take him away from the hell his life had been and was going through.
Daniel “Turk” Turek…this guy who from the description given….HOLY HOTNESS, BATMAN!! I loved that Turk was a mix of Scottish, and Jamaican and African. He’s a Hunter, a elite group of people who hunt demons. I love the fact that man was more than just the big, burly Alpha man. He was such a great man. He had so much heart. I loved how when he first met Owen, how he treated him. I liked how he took things slow with Owen. Got a chance to know him. I felt for him when he felt that he had been lied too. I loved how he battled with himself when dealing with Owen. I really liked that once he made up his mind to help Owen…he was all in!! Turk was so used to doing things the way that he’d been taught that I loved seeing his growth as a character.
The secondary characters in this book were great. You hate Malcolm from the first moment you meet him until the very end. He’s an Ass and he stated true to his nature. Harrison, Turk’s friend…Wow…this man had a whole lot of jerk in him, but once you get to know him better…you almost can forgive him. Wayne…golly, I really liked this guy. Owen’s cousin who in actuality is more like his brother. I loved their relationship. I loved how close they were and all that Wayne did for Owen. Such unconditional love was so wonderful to see. Matthew…you didn’t see a bunch of Matthew…but he is such a wonderful part of the story. I would truly love to see more of him. Loquis….whoa…this guy…is true to his nature, but what a dick!!! I did kinda like him. I’m always amused by characters that are bad and yet, their kinda amusing to me about it.
I will say that the intimate scenes between Owen and Turk were pretty damn HOT!! I loved that they moved slow regarding them getting together. They actually took the time to get to know each other. That when they finally did get together…it wasn’t just sex…it was truly making love.
The writing was AMAZING!! I have to say the growth of each character was wonderful to watch. To hear their stories…they reason they were the way they were…I have to say…Owen made me tear up so many times that I had to put the book away and try not to cry at work. JC really did such a GREAT JOB bringing these characters to life that you were on the ride with them. I couldn’t wait to see how this book was going to end. I couldn’t stop reading, except for the small bout of trying not to cry. I stayed up late to finish this book.
This is such wonderful book that you will definitely get caught up in and it won’t let you go. I enjoyed the tension, the thrill and the drama of this story. I was on this thrill ride with Owen and felt EVERY EMOTION that he was going through and I was just as invested in his story as he was. Great Job, JC!!! I can’t WAIT for your next book!!
A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review. Please visit www.lovebytesreviews.com to see this and many more reviews, author interviews, guestposts and giveaways!
Wow!! That’s the thing that comes to mind from this book!! I read a previous book by JC and I found it really engrossing, so I was really happy when this book came up for review. I wanted to see if JC could live up to the expectation I had regarding his work. I can say….it truly did!!
Owen…wow this character just made my heart hurt. I wanted to cry reading his story. That this young man had been living the last 10 years of his young life thinking that he had cancer. That this was his life. How he’s trying to live his life away from home for the first time. I just felt for him. Owen….this character broke my heart and yet, he was still this really great heart. His love for his family and just wanting to be normal. I swear…Owen is one character that I will ALWAYS remember. I liked him from jump and as he was going through all of the horrible things that started to befall him…he still had this wonderful heart and such a kind soul. This character just called to every instinct that I had to just hold him tight and take him away from the hell his life had been and was going through.
Daniel “Turk” Turek…this guy who from the description given….HOLY HOTNESS, BATMAN!! I loved that Turk was a mix of Scottish, and Jamaican and African. He’s a Hunter, a elite group of people who hunt demons. I love the fact that man was more than just the big, burly Alpha man. He was such a great man. He had so much heart. I loved how when he first met Owen, how he treated him. I liked how he took things slow with Owen. Got a chance to know him. I felt for him when he felt that he had been lied too. I loved how he battled with himself when dealing with Owen. I really liked that once he made up his mind to help Owen…he was all in!! Turk was so used to doing things the way that he’d been taught that I loved seeing his growth as a character.
The secondary characters in this book were great. You hate Malcolm from the first moment you meet him until the very end. He’s an Ass and he stated true to his nature. Harrison, Turk’s friend…Wow…this man had a whole lot of jerk in him, but once you get to know him better…you almost can forgive him. Wayne…golly, I really liked this guy. Owen’s cousin who in actuality is more like his brother. I loved their relationship. I loved how close they were and all that Wayne did for Owen. Such unconditional love was so wonderful to see. Matthew…you didn’t see a bunch of Matthew…but he is such a wonderful part of the story. I would truly love to see more of him. Loquis….whoa…this guy…is true to his nature, but what a dick!!! I did kinda like him. I’m always amused by characters that are bad and yet, their kinda amusing to me about it.
I will say that the intimate scenes between Owen and Turk were pretty damn HOT!! I loved that they moved slow regarding them getting together. They actually took the time to get to know each other. That when they finally did get together…it wasn’t just sex…it was truly making love.
The writing was AMAZING!! I have to say the growth of each character was wonderful to watch. To hear their stories…they reason they were the way they were…I have to say…Owen made me tear up so many times that I had to put the book away and try not to cry at work. JC really did such a GREAT JOB bringing these characters to life that you were on the ride with them. I couldn’t wait to see how this book was going to end. I couldn’t stop reading, except for the small bout of trying not to cry. I stayed up late to finish this book.
This is such wonderful book that you will definitely get caught up in and it won’t let you go. I enjoyed the tension, the thrill and the drama of this story. I was on this thrill ride with Owen and felt EVERY EMOTION that he was going through and I was just as invested in his story as he was. Great Job, JC!!! I can’t WAIT for your next book!!
A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review. Please visit www.lovebytesreviews.com to see this and many more reviews, author interviews, guestposts and giveaways!
May 30, 2015
*** This book was kindly provided by the author in exchange for an unbiased review ***
This story starts out as a completely normal, reality-bound book. Owen is fighting leukemia since he was 15, but every 2 years he goes in remission. He's never able to really win the fight.
Owen has given up. He is tired and he had enough. He decided not to continue with the treatment, that he knew he would need to live.
When he meets Turk, he wants to allow himself two weeks to live. But after only a very short time, he doesn't want to let go, wants to stay with Turk, learn more about him.
But the illness is advancing and to spare his family the sorrow of having to wait for the invatable results of the test, he sees a doctor by himself.
But everything comes different than expected. He is told that he doesn't suffer from leukemia, that in fact he never had, but in the same move he is kidnapped and held captive as a test subject. He has a demon inside of him and as if that wasn't cruel enough, he "meets" Turk at the facility where he also works. Turk doesn't act like he knows or even ever liked Owen.
What happens to Owen in that time is really terrible, he feels like he slowly loses his mind and with all that's happening a feeling of detachment starts to emerge that is overwhelming at that time. And all while trying to keep his mind intact, to keep the thing in him at bay and not be stuffed in a lonely corner of his mind.
This book has a happy end and I think it was very well done and realistic (I mean, there WERE demons, a priestess, hunter that live several hundred years and so on, but ...). You could really feel with Owen throughout the book, his feelings of betrayal but also his love for Turk and his family and his wish to finally live. Turk also wasn't a bad person, definitely naive in a way but resolute in others, which really didn't help Owen. But it wasn't Turk's fault. He's also just "human".
All in all I liked this book. It really displayed the emotions of the characters and the story was very interesting. I also liked the others, e.g. Wayne and Matthew (They were great) and I believe that paranormal fans should definitely read it. But I wouldn't recommend it to somebody who wants a medical story. Because that just isn't in this book. However, I really liked it.
This story starts out as a completely normal, reality-bound book. Owen is fighting leukemia since he was 15, but every 2 years he goes in remission. He's never able to really win the fight.
"I may have won the battles, but this illness is going to win the war."
~Owen
Owen has given up. He is tired and he had enough. He decided not to continue with the treatment, that he knew he would need to live.
When he meets Turk, he wants to allow himself two weeks to live. But after only a very short time, he doesn't want to let go, wants to stay with Turk, learn more about him.
"You make me want to fight again."
~Owen to Turk
But the illness is advancing and to spare his family the sorrow of having to wait for the invatable results of the test, he sees a doctor by himself.
But everything comes different than expected. He is told that he doesn't suffer from leukemia, that in fact he never had, but in the same move he is kidnapped and held captive as a test subject. He has a demon inside of him and as if that wasn't cruel enough, he "meets" Turk at the facility where he also works. Turk doesn't act like he knows or even ever liked Owen.
What happens to Owen in that time is really terrible, he feels like he slowly loses his mind and with all that's happening a feeling of detachment starts to emerge that is overwhelming at that time. And all while trying to keep his mind intact, to keep the thing in him at bay and not be stuffed in a lonely corner of his mind.
This book has a happy end and I think it was very well done and realistic (I mean, there WERE demons, a priestess, hunter that live several hundred years and so on, but ...). You could really feel with Owen throughout the book, his feelings of betrayal but also his love for Turk and his family and his wish to finally live. Turk also wasn't a bad person, definitely naive in a way but resolute in others, which really didn't help Owen. But it wasn't Turk's fault. He's also just "human".
All in all I liked this book. It really displayed the emotions of the characters and the story was very interesting. I also liked the others, e.g. Wayne and Matthew (They were great) and I believe that paranormal fans should definitely read it. But I wouldn't recommend it to somebody who wants a medical story. Because that just isn't in this book. However, I really liked it.
June 12, 2015
I was given a free copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 Stars
Wow! Diventando:The Vessel was such a good read. Mr. Wallace wove a very intriguing PNR story that kept me turning pages. So if you like M/M PNR you gotta give this one a try.
Owen has lived most of his life fighting to live. Going every two years to his doctor to fight his "cancer" over and over again, Owen has decided this time he wouldn't fight. Owen is determine to let the cancer run it's course and enjoy what he can while he can. That is until he meets Turk. I love when Owen says "you make me want to fight again". Turk is a super hot, classic muscle car enthusiast, or so Owen thinks. Turns out he's a professor of sociology at the local college on sabbatical doing research. They meet through Owen's cousin, Wayne, who drags him out of the house to go to a car show and get him away from his computer.
The connection is there but Wayne's over concern for his cousin cuts things short. Owen just wants a taste of Turk and it seems as if Turk wants the same thing. Owen's "illness", "sickness", "cancer" gets in the way; ending their first two dates prematurely...you know before pow, bam, boom!
When Owen's symptoms become too much for him to ignore a trip to the doctors turns all kinds of crazy. Secrets, lies, and betrayal are thrown at Owen from every direction and he can't trust anyone, not even the voice in his head...
The story moved at a nice pace and there were quite a few action scenes that I really enjoyed...the only thing I didn't like was the really nice bow that wrapped it all up at the end and everyone's friends, no hard feelings. Nope I didn't care for that too much but overall a very good PNR read, it had the right amount of suspense and spook!
4.5 Stars
Wow! Diventando:The Vessel was such a good read. Mr. Wallace wove a very intriguing PNR story that kept me turning pages. So if you like M/M PNR you gotta give this one a try.
Owen has lived most of his life fighting to live. Going every two years to his doctor to fight his "cancer" over and over again, Owen has decided this time he wouldn't fight. Owen is determine to let the cancer run it's course and enjoy what he can while he can. That is until he meets Turk. I love when Owen says "you make me want to fight again". Turk is a super hot, classic muscle car enthusiast, or so Owen thinks. Turns out he's a professor of sociology at the local college on sabbatical doing research. They meet through Owen's cousin, Wayne, who drags him out of the house to go to a car show and get him away from his computer.
The connection is there but Wayne's over concern for his cousin cuts things short. Owen just wants a taste of Turk and it seems as if Turk wants the same thing. Owen's "illness", "sickness", "cancer" gets in the way; ending their first two dates prematurely...you know before pow, bam, boom!
When Owen's symptoms become too much for him to ignore a trip to the doctors turns all kinds of crazy. Secrets, lies, and betrayal are thrown at Owen from every direction and he can't trust anyone, not even the voice in his head...
The story moved at a nice pace and there were quite a few action scenes that I really enjoyed...the only thing I didn't like was the really nice bow that wrapped it all up at the end and everyone's friends, no hard feelings. Nope I didn't care for that too much but overall a very good PNR read, it had the right amount of suspense and spook!
June 1, 2015
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Owen was diagnosed at fifteen y.o. with leukemia and every two years he goes into remission. After ten years of fighting he's come to the decision not to do it anymore. With his next visit to a specialist, he plans to get the test results to break the news to his family. But a few weeks from his appointment his cousin drags him to an auto show. It's there he meets Turk. Turk makes him want to continue fighting.
But an early rushed visit to see the specialist results in more than Owen bargained for. Confused about why he's being treated in such a way, Owen isn't exactly sure he hasn't suffered a mental break. Especially when Turk seems to be in on the ordeal unfolding.
This was a really compelling story. On the surface it first seemed like it was going to be a slow romantic story. Owen and Turk were just getting to know each other and dating. Owen trying to keep his worsening condition under wraps from his family. Then Owen starts having these weird dreams and his illness gets bad enough that he can't hide it from everyone. From there everything just explodes and the story becomes hard to put down.
The emotions of the characters were wrecking havoc on my own emotions. In such a short time, Owen really got under my skin and it was easy to just side with him and feel his betrayal, his pain, his love and his will.
Owen was diagnosed at fifteen y.o. with leukemia and every two years he goes into remission. After ten years of fighting he's come to the decision not to do it anymore. With his next visit to a specialist, he plans to get the test results to break the news to his family. But a few weeks from his appointment his cousin drags him to an auto show. It's there he meets Turk. Turk makes him want to continue fighting.
But an early rushed visit to see the specialist results in more than Owen bargained for. Confused about why he's being treated in such a way, Owen isn't exactly sure he hasn't suffered a mental break. Especially when Turk seems to be in on the ordeal unfolding.
This was a really compelling story. On the surface it first seemed like it was going to be a slow romantic story. Owen and Turk were just getting to know each other and dating. Owen trying to keep his worsening condition under wraps from his family. Then Owen starts having these weird dreams and his illness gets bad enough that he can't hide it from everyone. From there everything just explodes and the story becomes hard to put down.
The emotions of the characters were wrecking havoc on my own emotions. In such a short time, Owen really got under my skin and it was easy to just side with him and feel his betrayal, his pain, his love and his will.
May 30, 2015
*This book was received free in return for an honest review via the Goodreads Don't Buy My Love program*
Loved it! A really refreshing and unique plot line. I was suckered into it so fast I couldn't put it down till it was finished. The wow factor was the paranormal twist, I was totally caught off guard on that, never saw it coming!
Owen has been fighting leukemia off and on for 10 years, and now he's tired of fighting it. He's decided to live away from his mother for the first time, enjoying what time he has left. He only needs to have a doctor tell him how much that time is.
Then the shock comes after visiting the new doctor. He doesn't have cancer, never has. It was all a lie. Why? Numb with shock, he is kidnapped and held prisoner for experimentation, and nobody will tell him what's going on.
The story is enthralling and fast pace. To give up on life, then to unexpectedly find love, only to have the rug pulled out from underneath his feet to find it was all a lie, and everyone, family and newly found love, are all part of the conspiracy.
And I also found it an emotional roller coaster, and shedding a few tears with Owen when he made his final farewells believing sacrificing his life would save those he loved.
Loved it! A really refreshing and unique plot line. I was suckered into it so fast I couldn't put it down till it was finished. The wow factor was the paranormal twist, I was totally caught off guard on that, never saw it coming!
Owen has been fighting leukemia off and on for 10 years, and now he's tired of fighting it. He's decided to live away from his mother for the first time, enjoying what time he has left. He only needs to have a doctor tell him how much that time is.
Then the shock comes after visiting the new doctor. He doesn't have cancer, never has. It was all a lie. Why? Numb with shock, he is kidnapped and held prisoner for experimentation, and nobody will tell him what's going on.
The story is enthralling and fast pace. To give up on life, then to unexpectedly find love, only to have the rug pulled out from underneath his feet to find it was all a lie, and everyone, family and newly found love, are all part of the conspiracy.
And I also found it an emotional roller coaster, and shedding a few tears with Owen when he made his final farewells believing sacrificing his life would save those he loved.
May 29, 2015
I received this copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
First of all, I read this as a blog story a while back. It was incomplete but I was intrigued. I had figured out pretty early that Owen did not have cancer as he was led to believe . And Turk was always more than a simple car guy.He was involved with some secret organization. But I didn't expect the facility that tested on the possessed or the ancient hunters of demons or the Matthew connection. I was really surprised by his role in this. Wayne also surprised me. He was so protective of Owen and didn't give up on him. What a great cousin/brother. I loved Owen and Turk together. Even though there wasn't (couldn't be) a lot of sex. Their feelings for each other were very real. And this I believe, gave Owen the strength to fight his demons. Literally and Figuratively. The priestess was cool and I liked that she was willing to work with the doctors. I felt sorry for Wes. But maybe he'll be in the next book. My only WTF moment was about Malcolm at the end. Is he possessed? Is that why he left?
I guess I'll have to wait and find out. 4 stars
First of all, I read this as a blog story a while back. It was incomplete but I was intrigued. I had figured out pretty early that Owen did not have cancer as he was led to believe . And Turk was always more than a simple car guy.He was involved with some secret organization. But I didn't expect the facility that tested on the possessed or the ancient hunters of demons or the Matthew connection. I was really surprised by his role in this. Wayne also surprised me. He was so protective of Owen and didn't give up on him. What a great cousin/brother. I loved Owen and Turk together. Even though there wasn't (couldn't be) a lot of sex. Their feelings for each other were very real. And this I believe, gave Owen the strength to fight his demons. Literally and Figuratively. The priestess was cool and I liked that she was willing to work with the doctors. I felt sorry for Wes. But maybe he'll be in the next book. My only WTF moment was about Malcolm at the end. Is he possessed? Is that why he left?
I guess I'll have to wait and find out. 4 stars
June 14, 2015
The whole time reading this book I just kept thinking, this would be a great movie. This a wonderful combination of paranormal mystery and drama set in an contemporary setting. Owen is a wonderful character and his discovery that his reality is not as he perceives makes for a great action and romance. His budding romance with Turk is sweet and intense, just like I like it. I hope this is not the last we hear from this couple or this world, as it has some interesting possibilities. This is the second book I've read from Mr. Wallace and I have to say I am now a fan. Both books were a one day reads with a great romance, wonderful supporting friends and family, and lots of action and drama.
July 12, 2015
3.75 stars
For some reason, while I wasn't blown away with this story, I liked it well enough and it made me really like the author. It was technically well written and edited, which I really appreciate, the characters were fairly well developed, the world building reasonably good, and the storyline very original. However, I spent too much time in Owen's head and some of the details were very repetitive. I would have liked a bit more background on our main characters.
All in all, a very interesting story, and I'm going to watch and see what else Wallace publishes. Recommended.
For some reason, while I wasn't blown away with this story, I liked it well enough and it made me really like the author. It was technically well written and edited, which I really appreciate, the characters were fairly well developed, the world building reasonably good, and the storyline very original. However, I spent too much time in Owen's head and some of the details were very repetitive. I would have liked a bit more background on our main characters.
All in all, a very interesting story, and I'm going to watch and see what else Wallace publishes. Recommended.
April 29, 2016
So far, everything I've ready by JC Wallace has been just amazing and this book was no different. Definitely on my insta-buy list. Well developed story and characters. Highly recommended!
December 25, 2014
Strange book - still haven't decided if I really like it. This one will definitely get read again.
December 13, 2015
Diventando: The Vessel by JC Wallace: http://reviews-and-ramblings.dreamwid... 2015 Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention (5* from at least 1 judge)
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews