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Tempted #1
Forbidden
Welcome to Whispering Bluff, Tennessee. Where the guys are hot. The girls are sweet. And nothing is what it seems...
Flint DeLuca is sick and tired of moving. Her and her dad have moved three times in the past year. But that's the life of a carnie. Even an ex-carnie like her. Her father swears this is the last move. All Flint wants now is to graduate from High School and put the carnival life behind her. Unfortunately, one of the two ain't gonna happen. So now not only is she back in the life she can never seem to get away from, she's also met this guy who pushes all her "I totally hate you" buttons.
Cain. No last name. Wears shades in school. Dresses entirely in black. And only speaks to her when he's insulting her. She hates him. Hates him. And yet... there's something about the Goth boy that draws her like a moth to flame. God, she can't wait to graduate and get away from Whispering Bluff, only problem is she's pretty sure her high school is infested by vampires. Cain might be one of them. And for some reason, she seems to be on their menu.
Sometimes High School really sucks...
Flint DeLuca is sick and tired of moving. Her and her dad have moved three times in the past year. But that's the life of a carnie. Even an ex-carnie like her. Her father swears this is the last move. All Flint wants now is to graduate from High School and put the carnival life behind her. Unfortunately, one of the two ain't gonna happen. So now not only is she back in the life she can never seem to get away from, she's also met this guy who pushes all her "I totally hate you" buttons.
Cain. No last name. Wears shades in school. Dresses entirely in black. And only speaks to her when he's insulting her. She hates him. Hates him. And yet... there's something about the Goth boy that draws her like a moth to flame. God, she can't wait to graduate and get away from Whispering Bluff, only problem is she's pretty sure her high school is infested by vampires. Cain might be one of them. And for some reason, she seems to be on their menu.
Sometimes High School really sucks...
332 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 15, 2014
184 people are currently reading
1420 people want to read
About the author
Selene Charles
23 books280 followersSelene Charles is the pen name of a NY Times and USA Today bestselling author.
She is an avid penguin sweater knitter. She believes that unicorns really do exist and that skittles aren't really candy at all. She enjoys skydiving in the arctic, chatting with her polar bear friends around a warm campfire while sipping on warm cocoa, and she used to work in a travelling carnival which is where she got all these crazy ideas from. Only two of these statements are actually true.
If you'd like to know more about her or her works feel free to write her at selenecharleswrites@gmail.com
She is an avid penguin sweater knitter. She believes that unicorns really do exist and that skittles aren't really candy at all. She enjoys skydiving in the arctic, chatting with her polar bear friends around a warm campfire while sipping on warm cocoa, and she used to work in a travelling carnival which is where she got all these crazy ideas from. Only two of these statements are actually true.
If you'd like to know more about her or her works feel free to write her at selenecharleswrites@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
April 7, 2015
I have very mixed feelings about this book. It looks like this might have started life as fan fiction for Twilight, with the first few chapters having many similar parallels. New girl at new high school. coming of age, meets bad boy who wants nothing to do with her, weird atmosphere about. HOwever the author pulled it out of the bag to be different and I don't dislike the Twilight inspired books, as long as the writing is of pod quality. I did indeed find the writing to be of good quality and I'll focus on the positive before mentioning what I had issues with.
Flint herself was a likeable, believable character who I did invest in. She took everything on board and made up her mind. I have great hopes for her in the future, both her own character and where her possible 'otherness' might be going. The world building, once I got over the high school issues was fascinating and very original. I found myself constantly wanting to know more about it, although we seem to be learning at the same pace as Flint so it might be while. The carnival itself was something that almost came alive, in fact I would have loved more of the book to have played out there. The whole atmosphere was electrifying and I really wanted to immerse myself there. The characters themselves were fairly original and I wanted to learn more about them and their powers and how that all fit in with carnival life.
Now to my issues with the book, firstly the cover - I felt it was very misleading towards the story, but then I have to say this is often the case these days with fantasy and this book is not alone in that. I wasn't keen on the names of Cain and Abel, I think it's been rather over done and was probably the least original aspect of the book. I had a question with the believability of carnival life linking to school, do they ever sleep, theses school kids? If Abel and Cain had recently moved why were they not also fairly new at school? Surely the carnival moves, as said in explanation to Flint, they move where they are needed with the carnival as cover. Also school seemed to be forever monday morning, there was an awful lot of Mr Wickham in chemistry and never anything else. My other big issue was the order - the humans - and yet the humans aren't allowed to know, in fact they have to be killed if they know about monsters??? Just didn't add up to me. I also had constant questions, I know this is the first book in a series and world building is always an issue but I constantly felt like I needed more, in fact the opposite of the usual info dumping that can happen in first books. Finally my last issue, and the biggest! That was no cliff hanger ending, the book just ended in what seemed like 80% of the way in! A cliff hanger is one thing, but just to stop the story part way through so abruptly felt wrong and in fact if it weren't for this fact I would have rated this book much higher. It felt unsatisfying and incomplete. There was no resolution to any of the big story lines at all.
I will however for it's many good points pick up the next book when it comes out, as Flint is a likeable and interesting character. I will be very interested to see how things pan out for her. I hope we get more than part of a book next time!
Flint herself was a likeable, believable character who I did invest in. She took everything on board and made up her mind. I have great hopes for her in the future, both her own character and where her possible 'otherness' might be going. The world building, once I got over the high school issues was fascinating and very original. I found myself constantly wanting to know more about it, although we seem to be learning at the same pace as Flint so it might be while. The carnival itself was something that almost came alive, in fact I would have loved more of the book to have played out there. The whole atmosphere was electrifying and I really wanted to immerse myself there. The characters themselves were fairly original and I wanted to learn more about them and their powers and how that all fit in with carnival life.
Now to my issues with the book, firstly the cover - I felt it was very misleading towards the story, but then I have to say this is often the case these days with fantasy and this book is not alone in that. I wasn't keen on the names of Cain and Abel, I think it's been rather over done and was probably the least original aspect of the book. I had a question with the believability of carnival life linking to school, do they ever sleep, theses school kids? If Abel and Cain had recently moved why were they not also fairly new at school? Surely the carnival moves, as said in explanation to Flint, they move where they are needed with the carnival as cover. Also school seemed to be forever monday morning, there was an awful lot of Mr Wickham in chemistry and never anything else. My other big issue was the order - the humans - and yet the humans aren't allowed to know, in fact they have to be killed if they know about monsters??? Just didn't add up to me. I also had constant questions, I know this is the first book in a series and world building is always an issue but I constantly felt like I needed more, in fact the opposite of the usual info dumping that can happen in first books. Finally my last issue, and the biggest! That was no cliff hanger ending, the book just ended in what seemed like 80% of the way in! A cliff hanger is one thing, but just to stop the story part way through so abruptly felt wrong and in fact if it weren't for this fact I would have rated this book much higher. It felt unsatisfying and incomplete. There was no resolution to any of the big story lines at all.
I will however for it's many good points pick up the next book when it comes out, as Flint is a likeable and interesting character. I will be very interested to see how things pan out for her. I hope we get more than part of a book next time!
June 13, 2017
Very YA. Book 2 picks up, however as it finally gets intriguing the plot has too many gaps, untapped plot potentials! I noted author has a separate pen name for her adult novels. Scaling down from NA to YA, I can only assume, but imagine that's difficult transition initially.
I'm intrigued to consider trying her adult series.
I'm intrigued to consider trying her adult series.
June 23, 2015
Carnival Diabolique? Oh yeah, count me in. It might be an older young adult read, but I ended up completely enjoying it as much as any good adult book. And it was good! One thing though, when reading this, you immediately think of Twilight. Lots of similarities. As in, I almost put it down after a few chapters-there’s only one Twilight as far as I am concerned. Don’t judge. But the writing drew me in, and the story pretty much did a complete 180, so trust me, the Twilightish parts almost completely go away.
Flint and her dad have recently moved to small town Tennessee. Her dad is what as known as a catcher in the high flying acts in the circus. Flint used to fly too, until her mom died while walking a tightrope the year before. Her dad gets a job at the circus, and it’s not like any circus they have ever worked at. It only operates late at night, and the workers are almost all really strange. Flint starts her senior year, and immediately meets Abel, a friendly outgoing guy that she instantly puts in her friend zone. Then she meets Cain, Abel’s brother, a muscled, super good looking guy, with his eyes hidden by sunglasses,that totally ignores her, at first. She definitely doesn’t put Cain in the friend zone. Turns out the guys live at the circus, and their father is the owner, and her dad’s boss. And nobody is what they seem.
The characters and supernatural beings were my favorite part of this read. Flint is a good person, athletic, pretty, and takes care of her dad. Cain is a brooder type, quiet, and has a temper. Although he’s not friendly in the beginning, the chemistry between Cain and Flint is off the charts most of the time. And of course there’s reasons for why he is the way he is. Abel is a sweetheart and was one of the best parts of the read for me. I enjoyed Flint’s friends from school (and also performers at the circus),Janet and Rhi. They were really different, as in scary different. There’s lots of other interesting secondary characters as well-as you would expect from a high school and circus as the main settings for this book.
As far as the main premise, which I am not going into, I thought it had a lot of unique elements-ones that I wasn’t familiar with. That’s saying a lot when you read as many paranormal books as I do. The writing was good, and actually this writer also writes as at least two other authors-RS Black and Marie Hall. In fact this book is a spin off of RS Blacks, Night Series, which I knew nothing about, but now think I might try it.
The pace was super fast, a one day read for me, and I have already read most of the second one. The reason for this for me was the cliffhanger ending as I had to see what happened next. Cliffhangers are something that I truly don’t enjoy. I was just glad the second one was already released although I have a feeling the second one might end that way too.
Recommended for older young adults and adults as well. Fun read!RabidReads.com)
Flint and her dad have recently moved to small town Tennessee. Her dad is what as known as a catcher in the high flying acts in the circus. Flint used to fly too, until her mom died while walking a tightrope the year before. Her dad gets a job at the circus, and it’s not like any circus they have ever worked at. It only operates late at night, and the workers are almost all really strange. Flint starts her senior year, and immediately meets Abel, a friendly outgoing guy that she instantly puts in her friend zone. Then she meets Cain, Abel’s brother, a muscled, super good looking guy, with his eyes hidden by sunglasses,that totally ignores her, at first. She definitely doesn’t put Cain in the friend zone. Turns out the guys live at the circus, and their father is the owner, and her dad’s boss. And nobody is what they seem.
The characters and supernatural beings were my favorite part of this read. Flint is a good person, athletic, pretty, and takes care of her dad. Cain is a brooder type, quiet, and has a temper. Although he’s not friendly in the beginning, the chemistry between Cain and Flint is off the charts most of the time. And of course there’s reasons for why he is the way he is. Abel is a sweetheart and was one of the best parts of the read for me. I enjoyed Flint’s friends from school (and also performers at the circus),Janet and Rhi. They were really different, as in scary different. There’s lots of other interesting secondary characters as well-as you would expect from a high school and circus as the main settings for this book.
As far as the main premise, which I am not going into, I thought it had a lot of unique elements-ones that I wasn’t familiar with. That’s saying a lot when you read as many paranormal books as I do. The writing was good, and actually this writer also writes as at least two other authors-RS Black and Marie Hall. In fact this book is a spin off of RS Blacks, Night Series, which I knew nothing about, but now think I might try it.
The pace was super fast, a one day read for me, and I have already read most of the second one. The reason for this for me was the cliffhanger ending as I had to see what happened next. Cliffhangers are something that I truly don’t enjoy. I was just glad the second one was already released although I have a feeling the second one might end that way too.
Recommended for older young adults and adults as well. Fun read!RabidReads.com)
December 24, 2014
I am a little ambivalent about this book. First major cliffhanger...should have had less drama at the end and started it for book two. It had a 'Twilight' feel about it. The hero who is cold/hot and no one acknowledging what they are. The randomness of meeting the Pride demon was just strange. Will still check out the next one because series has potential.
December 4, 2014
KILLER cliffhanger @ the end. -1 star
Unpredictable twist @ the end + 1 star
5 stars am definitely following this series. AMAZING!
Unpredictable twist @ the end + 1 star
5 stars am definitely following this series. AMAZING!
August 16, 2015
Sooo I've tried to steer clear of any spoilers, most of what I've said isn't really spoiling anything, but if you don't want to chance it, don't read on! :)
This was an enjoyable read, primarily because it was set in a circus, and it's been a while since I read something like this, having read The Night Circus though, it doesn't compare to the dark and twisted plot, so I only gave it three stars :)
Flint Deluca is a carnie, her mother and father too, so she was raised with it, and thus a bit of a natural, so, given that that is such a catching character backstory, she's just moved to a town with a super cool/creepy circus and hangs out there a lot, I'm so incredibly disappointed that there was only one scene where she did anything remotely circusy..she walked on a tight rope the first night she was there, and after that spent the rest of the book being angsty over a boy.
Flint's mum passed away about a year ago, she fell mid act, so there is a good reason and cause for Flint not bouncing around on a unicycle and swallowing swords, but damn, I could have used a few more pages of her trying out her skills, it let me down a bit there.
Cain and Abel (yeah seriously, their dad is called Adam too..) are brothers, Abel is the skinny best friend and Cain the beefy, moody love interest. I liked Abel, and what sucked the most, was watching her chase after Cain and his brooding temper, while honestly not warming up to Abel until he started to have a bit of a 'change' Don't get me wrong, I am team Cain, those two are in love, but poor Abel.
So, the plot is a bit of a mess, mainly focusing on some unknown threat chasing our heroin, the protagonist is constantly shifting, but in no discernible pattern, but I think that's because without the help and insight of some of the demons, I would have literally no idea what the book was about. It's essentially about a girl who moves to a no-where town, makes instant friends with some demons, and is being hunted by other kinds of demons, for reasons nobody knows, or cares to elaborate on, because it's all sort of centered around the tiny ways Cain touches her, smiles at her and his 'pine scent'. I liked this book because it was a little different, but I also disliked it because what had some promise, ended up being about a teenage couple flirting and trying to be together in some not very normal circumstances.
Not a bad read considering it's free on Amazon's KindleUnlimited, but I'd have been a bit put out if I had paid for it.
This was an enjoyable read, primarily because it was set in a circus, and it's been a while since I read something like this, having read The Night Circus though, it doesn't compare to the dark and twisted plot, so I only gave it three stars :)
Flint Deluca is a carnie, her mother and father too, so she was raised with it, and thus a bit of a natural, so, given that that is such a catching character backstory, she's just moved to a town with a super cool/creepy circus and hangs out there a lot, I'm so incredibly disappointed that there was only one scene where she did anything remotely circusy..she walked on a tight rope the first night she was there, and after that spent the rest of the book being angsty over a boy.
Flint's mum passed away about a year ago, she fell mid act, so there is a good reason and cause for Flint not bouncing around on a unicycle and swallowing swords, but damn, I could have used a few more pages of her trying out her skills, it let me down a bit there.
Cain and Abel (yeah seriously, their dad is called Adam too..) are brothers, Abel is the skinny best friend and Cain the beefy, moody love interest. I liked Abel, and what sucked the most, was watching her chase after Cain and his brooding temper, while honestly not warming up to Abel until he started to have a bit of a 'change' Don't get me wrong, I am team Cain, those two are in love, but poor Abel.
So, the plot is a bit of a mess, mainly focusing on some unknown threat chasing our heroin, the protagonist is constantly shifting, but in no discernible pattern, but I think that's because without the help and insight of some of the demons, I would have literally no idea what the book was about. It's essentially about a girl who moves to a no-where town, makes instant friends with some demons, and is being hunted by other kinds of demons, for reasons nobody knows, or cares to elaborate on, because it's all sort of centered around the tiny ways Cain touches her, smiles at her and his 'pine scent'. I liked this book because it was a little different, but I also disliked it because what had some promise, ended up being about a teenage couple flirting and trying to be together in some not very normal circumstances.
Not a bad read considering it's free on Amazon's KindleUnlimited, but I'd have been a bit put out if I had paid for it.
January 30, 2015
It was obvious pretty early on that the author is a Twilight fan and after a couple of parallels I braced myself for a piece of fan fiction, but Selene Charles went off into a completely different direction. The book was well written and unique, introducing a new supernatural world hidden within the setting of a midnight circus. I loved the details about carny life, in particular the walking and flying. It's as if the writer has first hand knowledge of what it's like to perform. I also really like the concept of the hive. The characters turn out to have surprising depths and I found myself vested in what happens not just to the heroine Flint DeLuca's character, but also several others. I just wish I'd had some closure, given the unanswered questions about some of the character's odd behaviors and afflictions, not to mention a cliffhanger at the end. I expect several big reveals in the future of the series, but unfortunately the second book hasn't been released. You can be sure I'll be checking back often until it is!
I was given this book in return for an honest review through Lovers of Paranormal.
I was given this book in return for an honest review through Lovers of Paranormal.
January 3, 2017
Here goes my second review. To be honest, in the beginning I was thinking about putting this book down. It reminded me a bit too much of Twilight, which isn’t a good thing. Luckily, I pushed through it and found it an interesting read after all. Oke, so it didn’t blow my mind, but at the end of the book I decided that I do want to read the second book.
Flint lost her mother a year ago, and she and her father have been moving to different places ever since. Now they moved to the dark, little town Whispering Buff. There she meets Cain, a boy who seems to hate her at times, but then also seems to like her some of the times. Something seems off about Cain though and not only Cain, but the other high school students as well.
What I liked about this book was that although a lot of the book was predictable the ending came as a surprise to me. I also liked that the supernatural characters were more interesting than just vampires and that the flow of the story got better as it progressed. That’s also why I gave it three starts out of five. So basically, I will read the second book unless a very interesting other book catches my eyes.
Flint lost her mother a year ago, and she and her father have been moving to different places ever since. Now they moved to the dark, little town Whispering Buff. There she meets Cain, a boy who seems to hate her at times, but then also seems to like her some of the times. Something seems off about Cain though and not only Cain, but the other high school students as well.
What I liked about this book was that although a lot of the book was predictable the ending came as a surprise to me. I also liked that the supernatural characters were more interesting than just vampires and that the flow of the story got better as it progressed. That’s also why I gave it three starts out of five. So basically, I will read the second book unless a very interesting other book catches my eyes.
July 1, 2015
big Surprise
High school angst with "otherness" issues.. Ia
Enjoyed it enough to finish it. Not sure about book two. the love/hate was more realistic in this book than books I have read like it before. of course I am not the targeted age range either. I was happy that parents acted like parents, tried to correct behavior instead of being totally out of it.. the characters were well built and really like able. I will probably do book two. The ending has me feeling a little iffy though..
High school angst with "otherness" issues.. Ia
Enjoyed it enough to finish it. Not sure about book two. the love/hate was more realistic in this book than books I have read like it before. of course I am not the targeted age range either. I was happy that parents acted like parents, tried to correct behavior instead of being totally out of it.. the characters were well built and really like able. I will probably do book two. The ending has me feeling a little iffy though..
January 22, 2015
I really enjoyed it. The ending was one hell of a cliffhanger! The author has written the many characters in the book with amazing detail. I like Flint, wonder what she will become. Cain is oh so sweet behind the bezerker thingy. Abel, omg, Abel! I'm hoping there is a second book in this series. It's a quick fluid read which is indicative of her writing style.
February 15, 2016
Ok I don't know about you but.. WHAT THE FUCK? Not only is the COVER for this book a total mislead but it's basically a replica of Twilight with a shitty plot.
I was expecting to read about a reckless red head girl who was about the kill some enemy butt with this kill or sword BUT THAT NEVER HAPPENED.
AND WHAT THE FUCK IS THAT ENDING? stupid
I was expecting to read about a reckless red head girl who was about the kill some enemy butt with this kill or sword BUT THAT NEVER HAPPENED.
AND WHAT THE FUCK IS THAT ENDING? stupid
March 16, 2015
The cover is misleading. No sword wielding heroine here.
She needs saving more than anything.
Still an interesting story though.
The beginning made me think I was reading another book based on the Twilight series but it evolves into it's own.
She needs saving more than anything.
Still an interesting story though.
The beginning made me think I was reading another book based on the Twilight series but it evolves into it's own.
February 23, 2016
Amazing first book!! Anything from this author is just pure perfection.
On to the next book!!
On to the next book!!
February 27, 2016
So this wasn't for me. I liked the idea, and this book had a lot of potential, but it was too high school for me. However, if your into that, then go for it! enjoy.
May 6, 2015
loved it....Cain is hand fan worthy. Exciting pace throughout and can't wait for the next one!
September 30, 2018
Where is the badass heroine with the sword in the book tho?
This was an incredibly slow story where alot of teen angst and drama happens but not much else until the end. I was expecting far more from this. Also I'm not a fan of the mc Flint. She acts like a grade-a tstl moron around Cain who btw is a complete dick to her. Freezes up in do or die situations and the rest of the time all she thinks about is Cain. Honestly Abel is totally the hotter all round awesomer brother.
Didn't feel the chemistry. Liked the twist at the end but really there should have been more action related to the hive through out the book instead of just the last 5%. Will read the next one only because reviews say it gets better but I'm not shipping Janet and Abel so I'm not sure what to look forward too.
This was an incredibly slow story where alot of teen angst and drama happens but not much else until the end. I was expecting far more from this. Also I'm not a fan of the mc Flint. She acts like a grade-a tstl moron around Cain who btw is a complete dick to her. Freezes up in do or die situations and the rest of the time all she thinks about is Cain. Honestly Abel is totally the hotter all round awesomer brother.
Didn't feel the chemistry. Liked the twist at the end but really there should have been more action related to the hive through out the book instead of just the last 5%. Will read the next one only because reviews say it gets better but I'm not shipping Janet and Abel so I'm not sure what to look forward too.
March 21, 2017
I have been reading a lot of "new" authors lately. You know, the free book in return for an honest review? And it's been leaving me a little jaded. Stories too short trying to "sell" the next one. Flat characters, crazy attempts at twists. Formatting so bad that I could barely read it, etc.
THIS IS NOT THAT! I loved this book. Everything was well written, fast paced and unique...very unique. Kudos Ms. Charles. And thank you! I was about to set fire to my Kindle.
THIS IS NOT THAT! I loved this book. Everything was well written, fast paced and unique...very unique. Kudos Ms. Charles. And thank you! I was about to set fire to my Kindle.
May 5, 2017
Quite the fast-paced ride with steam between the main characters and a dandy cliffhanger at the end.
December 10, 2018
It was a light but it was good
June 15, 2019
It was a bit ‘Twilight’ for me.
January 17, 2020
Only got to chapter 11 not my thing
January 29, 2017
This book was definitely not my cup of tea, not for me or whatever.
March 7, 2017
Wicked Magic Anthology
The whole first chapter was Flint embarrassing herself in front of her new school because of an attractive boy. It's one thing to find someone attractive but to lose all brain function because of it just annoys me as a characteristic in my female lead.
The whole first chapter was Flint embarrassing herself in front of her new school because of an attractive boy. It's one thing to find someone attractive but to lose all brain function because of it just annoys me as a characteristic in my female lead.
May 23, 2015
At first Forbidden seem to be another typical young adult paranormal romance, with the mysterious guy and the new girl setting that may seem a little familiar. However in the end I feel it did a rather good job on balancing the romance and the supernatural world-building. I thought the writing was colorful, and the story was very engaging. Not to say it didn't have it’s moment, but overall I really enjoyed reading this book.
What I liked about this book:
Interesting supernatural creatures √
No triangle-love...yet √
Unique leading female character √
Interesting storyline √
Complex yet gripping supernatural world √
Forbidden has build a complex supernatural world with layers of suspense and mysteries, that will keep you attentive throughout the book. Being the first book of the series, it has established a good foundation and a decent world-building.
I thought the author did a great job on building up Flint and Cain's relationship, even thought the supernatural bits does plays a huge part in their attractions. But the slow buildup along with loads of teasing would intensify their connections, which I find it has make it seem more real and believable.
I do think the book cover has given a misleading impression on Flint's character. It would turn out that Flint didn't do any fighting or that sort of things in Forbidden. But I can see her character potentially become someone that could kick-butt in the rest of the series.
Overall, Forbidden is a thrilling beginning of a complex yet intriguing Young-Adult Paranormal Romance series. Although Readers should be aware that this book ended with a cliffhanger (grrr) that may leave you a little confused and a little shocked.
Happy Reading!! XO
November 12, 2015
This was a really great book and start of a series. Flint DeLuca and her father have just moved again for the third time this year and she's sick of it. Her and her parents were carnie people but about a year ago her mother died doing one of the acts and she wants nothing to do with that life anymore. Her father and her just moved to Whispering Bluff, Tennessee. It's a small town with a circus that runs at night and the big show is at midnight. Her father gets a job there. People at school and at the circus are way different and nothing is what it seems. She meets Abel right away and he's sweet and a great friend. Then she meets Janet, Rhiannon, and then she meets Cain. Cain is gorgeous, dresses mainly in black, and wears his shades at school. He pushes Flint's buttons big time but she is so attracted to him as well.
Flint has had a lot to deal with in her young life. They were circus people so they moved around a lot but then she loses her mother doing an act and she's never going to be the same. Her father turns to alcohol a lot to numb his pain and she's got to take care of him more than he takes care of her. She is tired of the moving around and just wants to finish high school. From day one, she knows something isn't right at the school or at the circus. Cain is gorgeous and makes her lust big time for him but then he's a jerk or he embarrasses her.
Cain is definitely not what he appears. He wears dark clothes, he's built, but he has major anger problems. He's a Rager, his father is a demon and his mother is mortal. He was human for years but then the demon genes started factoring in and his emotions were all out of whack but his body grew big time and when he gets really angry he gets bigger. The circus is filled with tons of different demonic entities and Abel is still mostly human and doesn't know about the other side of his family and friends. His body is changing and some of his emotions and feelings. One of his people's worst enemies is called the Hive and it has a Queen that they're hunting for but she has minions and things that follow her orders. He's hunting them down and trying to find the Queen. He's attracted and drawn to Flint but he does everything he can to fight it.
Definitely worth reading and looking forward to reading the next book.
Flint has had a lot to deal with in her young life. They were circus people so they moved around a lot but then she loses her mother doing an act and she's never going to be the same. Her father turns to alcohol a lot to numb his pain and she's got to take care of him more than he takes care of her. She is tired of the moving around and just wants to finish high school. From day one, she knows something isn't right at the school or at the circus. Cain is gorgeous and makes her lust big time for him but then he's a jerk or he embarrasses her.
Cain is definitely not what he appears. He wears dark clothes, he's built, but he has major anger problems. He's a Rager, his father is a demon and his mother is mortal. He was human for years but then the demon genes started factoring in and his emotions were all out of whack but his body grew big time and when he gets really angry he gets bigger. The circus is filled with tons of different demonic entities and Abel is still mostly human and doesn't know about the other side of his family and friends. His body is changing and some of his emotions and feelings. One of his people's worst enemies is called the Hive and it has a Queen that they're hunting for but she has minions and things that follow her orders. He's hunting them down and trying to find the Queen. He's attracted and drawn to Flint but he does everything he can to fight it.
Definitely worth reading and looking forward to reading the next book.
January 16, 2015
I received this book in exchange for an honest review from Lop or Lovers of Paranormal.
Forbidden was excellent! Once I picked it up I couldn't put it down. I mean it's 4 a.m. and I am currently mind blown writing this review. Selene Charles is such a great writer and she keeps you interested from page 1. I think it's such an interesting twist to have the back story be about a circus, I have never seen that before. And that is just one of many differences between this book and others of this genre. The whole story was different from anything I have ever read, in a good way!
Flint is used to moving around alot. After settling into their new town, Flint and her father arrive at Carnevale Diabolique. As an excarnie Flint's dad needs a job, and what better way then to rejoin a circus. But this place is different from any circus Flint has have seen. While wondering around Flint sees Cain, the pain-in-the-ass-bad-boy from school. He has a hot temper and is quick to let Flint know what he thinks of her. But the more he pushes her away, the more Flint feels attracted to him.
As the weeks go by Flint starts to see that all isn't as it seems at Carnevale Dibolique, or even in her new little town. For there are monsters among them and they are out to get Flint.
With the help of Cain, his sweet brother Abel, Rhi, and Janet Flint must figure out who and what is stalking her. As Flint and Cain get closer, and he finally reveals his secrets, Flint realizes she may be in over her head.
Can Cain protect her from the monsters seeking her out? Or will his own monster inside get the better of him?
Flint was a great protagonist. She was strong, resourceful, witty, and so funny! The interaction between her and Cain was so believable. I felt at times like I wanted to jump in the book and smack Cain, but as they got closer, I found him indearing. I can NOT wait to see what happens! That was certhinly one HELL of a cliff hanger!
I recommend this book to all lover of Paranormal and YA book!
~ 5 Stars ~
Forbidden was excellent! Once I picked it up I couldn't put it down. I mean it's 4 a.m. and I am currently mind blown writing this review. Selene Charles is such a great writer and she keeps you interested from page 1. I think it's such an interesting twist to have the back story be about a circus, I have never seen that before. And that is just one of many differences between this book and others of this genre. The whole story was different from anything I have ever read, in a good way!
Flint is used to moving around alot. After settling into their new town, Flint and her father arrive at Carnevale Diabolique. As an excarnie Flint's dad needs a job, and what better way then to rejoin a circus. But this place is different from any circus Flint has have seen. While wondering around Flint sees Cain, the pain-in-the-ass-bad-boy from school. He has a hot temper and is quick to let Flint know what he thinks of her. But the more he pushes her away, the more Flint feels attracted to him.
As the weeks go by Flint starts to see that all isn't as it seems at Carnevale Dibolique, or even in her new little town. For there are monsters among them and they are out to get Flint.
With the help of Cain, his sweet brother Abel, Rhi, and Janet Flint must figure out who and what is stalking her. As Flint and Cain get closer, and he finally reveals his secrets, Flint realizes she may be in over her head.
Can Cain protect her from the monsters seeking her out? Or will his own monster inside get the better of him?
Flint was a great protagonist. She was strong, resourceful, witty, and so funny! The interaction between her and Cain was so believable. I felt at times like I wanted to jump in the book and smack Cain, but as they got closer, I found him indearing. I can NOT wait to see what happens! That was certhinly one HELL of a cliff hanger!
I recommend this book to all lover of Paranormal and YA book!
~ 5 Stars ~
March 24, 2016
3.5 stars
Right out the door this book started to annoy me. It was painfully obvious that the author Selene Charles is a twilight fan. Between all the parallels I thought for sure this was going to be some sort of fan fiction spin off You have your coming of age story where you have the mysterious beautiful and perfect people. The bad boy who is painstakingly gorgeous and the main girl is stuck making googly eyes him in class. But not just class CHEMISTRY, at least it wasn't biology right. Bad boy tells good girl "I'm not good for you, you need to stay away." "I can't stop thinking about you." Is this ringing a bell for you?
You have the pixie type protective best friend, who I swear if she was a psychic I would have stopped reading right then and there. And you have the handful of sparkling vampire comments through out the book. But that is where the parallels end.
Charles was able to spin this book in her own way, and it became a very interesting read. Once I was able to stop seeing the similarities between the two series I was able to sit back and just enjoy the book. The story seemed rushed, but at the same time it dragged. Oxymoron I know. But bare with me. The book was 332 pages long, and it takes place over the course of several months. But nothing really happens in that time frame, and when it does happen, the next section is started with, a week went by, then another, then another. For a story that is making it sound like there is this urgent threat, I guess I expected a little more, you can heal later, now we need to kick some A**.
I didn't think that I was going to read the other book in the series. But that ending OMG. I was on board with Flint's theory this whole time, even before she was thinking it. But what was shown to me at the end was just a wicked curve ball I never saw coming. Good job!! Now I just purchased book 2, so I have more reading to do.
Right out the door this book started to annoy me. It was painfully obvious that the author Selene Charles is a twilight fan. Between all the parallels I thought for sure this was going to be some sort of fan fiction spin off You have your coming of age story where you have the mysterious beautiful and perfect people. The bad boy who is painstakingly gorgeous and the main girl is stuck making googly eyes him in class. But not just class CHEMISTRY, at least it wasn't biology right. Bad boy tells good girl "I'm not good for you, you need to stay away." "I can't stop thinking about you." Is this ringing a bell for you?
You have the pixie type protective best friend, who I swear if she was a psychic I would have stopped reading right then and there. And you have the handful of sparkling vampire comments through out the book. But that is where the parallels end.
Charles was able to spin this book in her own way, and it became a very interesting read. Once I was able to stop seeing the similarities between the two series I was able to sit back and just enjoy the book. The story seemed rushed, but at the same time it dragged. Oxymoron I know. But bare with me. The book was 332 pages long, and it takes place over the course of several months. But nothing really happens in that time frame, and when it does happen, the next section is started with, a week went by, then another, then another. For a story that is making it sound like there is this urgent threat, I guess I expected a little more, you can heal later, now we need to kick some A**.
I didn't think that I was going to read the other book in the series. But that ending OMG. I was on board with Flint's theory this whole time, even before she was thinking it. But what was shown to me at the end was just a wicked curve ball I never saw coming. Good job!! Now I just purchased book 2, so I have more reading to do.
January 4, 2015
Overall, I liked the book. It was a slightly different take on the Nephilim/demon genre. It had a similar theme of boy-hates-girl immediately and girl-hates-boy for the said boy is being a jerk for unknown reason yet they share an intense attraction. And, towards the end they come to realize resistance is futile :). The names of characters were quite interesting. Cain and Abel the two brothers as different as night and day.
The cover is slightly misleading. I liked the cover a lot and that's part of the reason why I wanted to read the book. However, the cover makes Flint (the main character) look like a sword wielding, demon fighting huntress. And, she is not. She can however, throw a knife really well. Cain, the a-hole hot guy, is (per formula) mean and nasty to Flint. We do find out why he is the way he is eventually though.
I felt there was a lack of depth to the characters. I enjoyed reading the book and finished it in one night. It kept me turning pages. I still felt there was something missing. I wonder if there will be more to the characters in the sequel as Flint just seemed somewhat blah. She definitely has potential for a strong character but, I just didn't see quite enough of it in this book. Thankfully, Flint did not annoy me. She was overall likeable despite the strange name :).
The narration is mainly from Flint and Cain's POV. It was nice to see what was going through Cain's head. It did lack some depth though. However, there are few chapters randomly from other minor character's POV as well. Multiple POVs didn't bother me as much as it did not take over the book per se. The author kept those chapters short thankfully.
I do want to read the sequel as this book ended on a cliffhanger and it sort of confused me.
The cover is slightly misleading. I liked the cover a lot and that's part of the reason why I wanted to read the book. However, the cover makes Flint (the main character) look like a sword wielding, demon fighting huntress. And, she is not. She can however, throw a knife really well. Cain, the a-hole hot guy, is (per formula) mean and nasty to Flint. We do find out why he is the way he is eventually though.
I felt there was a lack of depth to the characters. I enjoyed reading the book and finished it in one night. It kept me turning pages. I still felt there was something missing. I wonder if there will be more to the characters in the sequel as Flint just seemed somewhat blah. She definitely has potential for a strong character but, I just didn't see quite enough of it in this book. Thankfully, Flint did not annoy me. She was overall likeable despite the strange name :).
The narration is mainly from Flint and Cain's POV. It was nice to see what was going through Cain's head. It did lack some depth though. However, there are few chapters randomly from other minor character's POV as well. Multiple POVs didn't bother me as much as it did not take over the book per se. The author kept those chapters short thankfully.
I do want to read the sequel as this book ended on a cliffhanger and it sort of confused me.
January 15, 2015
Forbidden was a very entertaining YA paranormal romance - I was intrigued by the first chapter and enjoyed the entire story.
There is a very complex supernatural world at play in the background of this book and it's not quite explained completely, however, I'm assuming that the pieces will fall together during the rest of the series. I've very interested in seeing how the different factions mentioned all interweave together.
Flint is feisty and strong and it's wonderful that she has such special skills that allow her to NOT be the damsel in distress. Obviously there is something "more" about her and I'm very interested to find out exactly what that is.
Cain is a nice example of the anti-hero - he's never so unlikeable that he's irredeemable, even when you know his "big secret." He may take the alpha male thing a bit too far, but when you understand how his personality is hard wired, you understand that he literally can't help it.
Abel is something of an enigma - you are told he's quite similar to Cain and yet it becomes increasingly clear that he's also quite different. I'm interested to see where his story goes.
The "younger" supporting characters are quite fun - I especially liked the twins.
I wish I had learned more about Adam (Cain and Abel's father) because I very much wanted to know a lot more about his history and relationship with Layla.
There is quite a big cliffhanger at the end of this book - and it is pretty shocking. I was totally not expecting it and I'm actually not 100% sure what to make of it. I'm still not real sure who the "Big Bad" is yet.
This is quite a good YA paranormal romance and a solid start to the series.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review (LOP or Lovers of Paranormal).
There is a very complex supernatural world at play in the background of this book and it's not quite explained completely, however, I'm assuming that the pieces will fall together during the rest of the series. I've very interested in seeing how the different factions mentioned all interweave together.
Flint is feisty and strong and it's wonderful that she has such special skills that allow her to NOT be the damsel in distress. Obviously there is something "more" about her and I'm very interested to find out exactly what that is.
Cain is a nice example of the anti-hero - he's never so unlikeable that he's irredeemable, even when you know his "big secret." He may take the alpha male thing a bit too far, but when you understand how his personality is hard wired, you understand that he literally can't help it.
Abel is something of an enigma - you are told he's quite similar to Cain and yet it becomes increasingly clear that he's also quite different. I'm interested to see where his story goes.
The "younger" supporting characters are quite fun - I especially liked the twins.
I wish I had learned more about Adam (Cain and Abel's father) because I very much wanted to know a lot more about his history and relationship with Layla.
There is quite a big cliffhanger at the end of this book - and it is pretty shocking. I was totally not expecting it and I'm actually not 100% sure what to make of it. I'm still not real sure who the "Big Bad" is yet.
This is quite a good YA paranormal romance and a solid start to the series.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review (LOP or Lovers of Paranormal).
January 19, 2015
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review via Lovers of Paranormal.
I have to start by saying that I love this author. I also have to say I hate cliffhangers. Having said that it just leaves me wanting the next book as soon as possible.
This was a great read. It certainly helped having read previous books in and around the Carnival Diabolique. I loved this setting before and it would have been great for a little more to come into this book. It is such a unique idea and enable so many different species to interact.
Having two brothers with the names Cain and Abel with a father named Adam gets your mind working from the off! In fact this book did a lot of that - got my mind working in all sorts of ways. When Pandora popped up I was hoping for more of her but then realised the time line wasn't quite right so moved on from that.
As always the descriptions of the characters, be they demons of whatever kind, are brilliantly written and leaves you feeling that you have a grasp on what they are. The plot is fast moving and gripping. Yes, as somebody else mentioned, there are elements that make you think of 'Twilight' but then in some ways that is quite difficult to avoid. There really isn't much in common other than she meets him, knows he is different, still likes him etc etc. The characters are so different!
I finished this in the early hours of the morning and it is still going around in my head hours later. So many questions..........Will there be a love triangle (I really hope not - it would be hard to choose a side!)Was there something 'special' about Flint's mum? What is Katy? WHO and WHAT is Layla????
The biggest question for me is WHEN IS THE NEXT BOOK OUT??
I have to start by saying that I love this author. I also have to say I hate cliffhangers. Having said that it just leaves me wanting the next book as soon as possible.
This was a great read. It certainly helped having read previous books in and around the Carnival Diabolique. I loved this setting before and it would have been great for a little more to come into this book. It is such a unique idea and enable so many different species to interact.
Having two brothers with the names Cain and Abel with a father named Adam gets your mind working from the off! In fact this book did a lot of that - got my mind working in all sorts of ways. When Pandora popped up I was hoping for more of her but then realised the time line wasn't quite right so moved on from that.
As always the descriptions of the characters, be they demons of whatever kind, are brilliantly written and leaves you feeling that you have a grasp on what they are. The plot is fast moving and gripping. Yes, as somebody else mentioned, there are elements that make you think of 'Twilight' but then in some ways that is quite difficult to avoid. There really isn't much in common other than she meets him, knows he is different, still likes him etc etc. The characters are so different!
I finished this in the early hours of the morning and it is still going around in my head hours later. So many questions..........Will there be a love triangle (I really hope not - it would be hard to choose a side!)Was there something 'special' about Flint's mum? What is Katy? WHO and WHAT is Layla????
The biggest question for me is WHEN IS THE NEXT BOOK OUT??
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