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Pneuma #1

Pneuma

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Estelle Caldwell caused a war with her birth. Estelle Caldwell has friends, family...everything a girl could ask for. But as she looks back on her life andher birthday approaches, weird things start to happen.Questions are left unanswered. Her feelings are starting to become clear for the one she's been in love with her whole life.People she knows start to become strangers to her.She has to leave to protect them... to protect... him. pneu·maˈn(y)o͞omə/nounthe vital spirit, soul, or creative force of a person.Do you know what it feels like to hold fate in your hand?Was it fate that my whole life got turned upside down? He was the reason I had to leave.Making the sacrifice caused my heart to rip in two.I wanted normalcy. I wanted my life to be my own.But it's nothing without the people I love, and it's forthe people I love that I have to leave. Fate. Please be kind.Will he still remember me?Will our first and last kiss be one and the same? Please remember. Please be with me.Family is tested.Memories are everywhere.Love is one of the biggest reliefs and hurts you can have at the same time.

430 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 13, 2014

51 people are currently reading
430 people want to read

About the author

Serena Kearney

10 books275 followers
I am a Leo. Born August 10, living on the east coast. I self-published my first novel, PNEUMA in 2014, and I have no regrets.
One of my many indulgences is fitting in time to read. My other happy place: having too much to write and not enough hands to type it out. Not enough brains to put the stories together fast enough. Not enough tea or coffee to keep me awake 24/7.

So, like every normal person, I have to take it one day at a time.

My cravings for sweets keep me going, any sort of cakes (especially red velvet), pies, cookies, and ice cream.
I have a cat named Bongo, who loves to get in my way when I'm trying to work but is too cute for me to fight him off.
And then I have my family, who puts up with my endless nights, my tapping of the keyboard, and my ridiculous imagination.
Socials: https://linktr.ee/serenakbelieves

Hey all! I've finally started my own fan group page.

This one is way more intimate and I have made it my goal to keep this one a lot more active than my others.
Why?
Because this group is exclusive to my releases, drafts, teasers, and much more! WAY sooner than any of my other social media.

Even get sneak peeks into my works. Maybe even get ARCs before anyone else!

So if you have reviewed and read my books, this is THE PLACE to be!

If you are interested in keeping up above everyone else, click below and join!

CLICK HERE=> https://www.facebook.com/groups/serenabookbelievers/

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5 stars
114 (44%)
4 stars
65 (25%)
3 stars
47 (18%)
2 stars
11 (4%)
1 star
18 (7%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
Profile Image for Libby Wyatt.
320 reviews23 followers
March 20, 2015
This was sent to me by the author for an honest review!

3.5 surprising stars.

I went into this without knowing a lot about the theme of the book which made it exciting and a mystery that I wanted to uncover. It wasn't until chapter six and seven that we discover that this is a sic-fi book (which I was super excited for!

Estelle (our main protagonist) was defiantly a hit with the guys! Holy cow she had four guys; Reed (I'll get to him soon), Kent, Dennis (the ex) and at the end (SPOILER) Jovian. Personally, I'm not a huge fan of love triangles (or pentagons!), I prefer my love stories to take a back seat to the main plot twists and action, but it seemed to have centre stage in Pneuma. Estelle as a main character was strong willed to a fault at points but her devotion to those she loved was what I liked most about her. The beginning scenes of her meeting Dana and Kent were how I quickly feel for her character. Reed was the typical 'beautiful soul-mate' and it seemed at times in the plots development that was his only characteristic. I do hope in the sequel (Surge, released April 24th) that Reed grows further in his character and we see a closer relationship with his father.

The world had me enthralled and I think that's what I loved most about this book. I'm not a BIG fan of sci/fi but this world was enchanting and I wished (and hopefully we see more in the sequel) that we saw more of the planets and the worlds that only got a quick mention. The concept for Pneuma was interesting and the amount of drama and events kept me reading further for answers, despite how little the issue was. I do wish, however, that the characters/settings/and relationships were able to develop further instead of a "flesh-deep" analysis. For example, although Reed and Es have known each other for well over ten years, I couldn't quite believe their "out-of-this-world" love story. Having read this I tend to think that this should be marketed at a younger age group, possibly 12-17. As an older reader (19, where has the time gone?) I tend to want a deeper meaning in my books and this failed to meet it for me. But this is just a personal observation.

Overall, I did enjoy the fast-past suspense of Pneuma and I can't wait to see what will happen for our characters in Surge. I do want answers to the camatic links and possibly what could develop between Reed/Estelle/and Jovian (defiantly conflict there!). April 24th better come quickly!
Profile Image for Sarah.
40 reviews4 followers
July 24, 2017
This is a good book it's kind of a SYFI fairytale with a strong love story in it. I liked the characters well enough and our main heroine is definitely a hit with the guys and strong willed. She has her weaknesses like any other heroine but seems to overcome them some as the story goes....it was a but cheesy in parts but again over all the world building and the storyline really kept me interested and I'm looking forward to seeing how the series grows over the next books!.
Profile Image for Amber ⋒.
168 reviews23 followers
February 8, 2017
I started this book without knowing a lot towards the theme of the book which had made it a mystery I was determine to uncover. Well I am so very glad I did. Considering I am a massive fan of sci-fi, fantasy and action/drama this book was gold for me. The concept for Pneuma was interesting and the amount of drama and events kept me reading further for answers, despite how little the issue was. As soon as you really get into the story it starts to sink in that you really don't know what's going to happen next. You meet all these new people and somehow they all connect with her friends on Earth and you feel as though everyone is somehow related. I was often just as confused as Estelle was with what was going on and that's what makes this story so great. I felt what she was feeling and really connected with her thought the story. Estelle, known as Es, as a main character was strong willed to a fault but her devotion to stand up to those who do wrong and isn't afraid to hold her ground to protect those she loves was what I liked about her. The scenes in the beginning of the book of her meeting Kent soon followed by Dana were how I understood what kind of character she was. Reed, the perfect knight in shining armor and handsome soul mate type, well let's just say I think I fell in love with a book character. He was the most perfect male lead, I had to say when Jovian decided to come in at the end I nearly had a heart attack (please tell me he does not ruin their perfect relationship). I must say I would have to be a team Reed kind of girl for sure. However Kent was such a great character as well. I am curious to know what happened to Kent and Dana and even Aiden, I do recall Reed mentioning what had become of them when Es was taken from their memories, causing them to live a life without her, but I am curious to know how their story will end. Back to the story line I found the best parts were towards the end when everything starts to pick up pace, all of a sudden so many things are happening and your constantly on the edge of your seat. The ending answers many questions I had throughout the story, while also bringing huge surprises and left me wanting more. There were so many turns that happened in the plot, It was very fast paced, especially some of the battle scenes, but in a book like this, I really enjoyed how it was done. The only thing that sort of irritated me was the love triangle but I did get into it as it was well written and did seem believable. This was something Serena did perfectly. She wrote familiar, real life situations and combined them with the extra-terrestrial. The whole book flowed perfectly and I must say I am on edge trying to get a hold of book two. This kind of book is one that keeps you thinking about it for days after you have finished it, there was no faults in this book and I must say I am grateful for getting the chance to read it!
4 reviews16 followers
February 22, 2015
This was one of those books that when you read the description your unsure what exactly it's about but it sounds good, and then you read the book and it throws you for a big loop but it ends up being amazing!

From reading the first five pages I automatically knew I was going to love it and couldn't put it down.

First off, I love the name Estelle. It's so pretty! Anyways, Estelle was such a relatable character at the beginning of the story. In the first couple chapters I almost thought that it might be a cliché teenage love story, and I'm glad it's not because what's the fun in that! From the moment she put on the necklace I knew that this book had so much more to offer than just a teenage romance. I also knew from the beginning that I was team Reed. He just seems so amazing! :)

As soon as you really get into the story and the science fiction side starts to show you really don't know what's going to happen next. You meet all these new people and somehow they all connect with her friends on Earth and you feel as though everyone is somehow related! I was often just as confused as Estelle was with what was going on and that's what makes this story so great. I felt what she was feeling and really connected with her thought the story.

The best parts were towards the end when everything starts to pick up pace wise and all of a sudden so many things are happening and your constantly on the edge of your seat. The ending answers many questions I had throughout the story, while also bringing huge surprises and left me wanting more. Which is one of the characteristics of all great books.

The story itself was beautifully written and flowed perfectly. The characters were amazing and you really got a feel for how great of friends they all are right from the beginning. I also loved the setting! The whole idea of aliens and space really made me wish that, that kind of stuff existed. Not that we know for sure it doesn't! ;)

The only complaint I had was that I feel as though some parts were rushed. Most "battle" scenes seemed to go really fast and before I knew it she levitates all of them then it's over! Other than that this book was amazing and I'm so glad I got the chance to read it.

I can't wait for book two! :)
Profile Image for Leena.
13 reviews9 followers
August 3, 2016
This book was sent to me by the author for an honest review.

Believe it or not this is my first young adult scifi book. From the description I wasn't sure what to expect. I thought maybe a ghost story book, I want quit sure but as you read, you start getting hints of scifi.

The main character is Estelle and she is what girl power is. I loved Estelle and how she stands up to bullies. I love that Estelle has such great friends and is a normal teen up until later. She does what she wants and is out spoken.

Though i don't personally like love triangles or whatever four people in love with the same girl is called because I feel so bad for the boys who are stuck loving her, like Kent, Reed, Dennis and Jovian later. Because of said love I can't pick between reed and Jovian. Both are so dreamy and they way I picture them in my head I wouldn't be able to choose!

Overall I love the space drama in this book. Though talk about suspensssssseee! I need to read the second book in this series ! What happens with vega and what will Estelle do about reed and Jovian !!!
Profile Image for Undeniably Addicted to Books.
97 reviews4 followers
December 17, 2014
RATING: 4 STARS

Let me just say, Serena Kearney did a fantastic job of giving us real life situations, and making them work with the science fiction side of this story.

This is a young adult, science fiction, romance novel. Does that seem out of place? Yes. Did she make it work? She sure did. This is by far one of the better YA novels I've read. This story centers around Estelle, and the romance that blooms with her long-time best friend. We're taken on a roller coaster of emotion from heartbreak, to heartwarming and it worked beautifully.

I'm excited to see what Serena Kearney has coming for us next after reading such a fantastic production in this novel.

Keri
Profile Image for Kelly Clare.
Author 67 books3,248 followers
July 9, 2015
The sci-fi setting in this book was amazing. I give two thumbs up to the author for her imagination! Estelle was a nice character, I liked how laid-back and relatable she came across. I would have enjoyed a bit more about the minor characters, something to help separate them in my mind, as some were quite similar. Other than that, this book had a good storyline and ending.
P.S. awesome cover.
Profile Image for Chrissy Van Der Laan.
65 reviews4 followers
August 30, 2015
Fantastic, I greatly enjoyed this story. So much going on, a lot of emotions I may have even shed a tear or two. Well written and you get completely caught up in another world. I'm not usually a Sci Fi person but this was great. Recommend for any readers that like a bit of romance, adventure and battles.
Profile Image for Kim.
30 reviews3 followers
January 23, 2015
Great first book!! Look forward to reading more by this delightful new author.
Profile Image for Briana Polden.
32 reviews
February 4, 2015
Great read. Nice to see a blend of everyday life and science fiction. Can't wait to read the next one.
Profile Image for Alexandra.
Author 4 books7 followers
December 19, 2015
I quite enjoyed reading this sci-fi story - the heroine is a strong woman, ready to do what needs to be done, no matter how much it hurts her, only thinking of those around her. She inspires love and protective instincts in each and every young man her age she meets (which I found a bit much, especially because it is always so selfless, so "only her luck matters") and develops to be a very important part of the new world she is thrown into after having to give up near everything she knew and loved. The people she meets aren't shown not only in black and white, they have good and bad moments and she herself has weaknesses and makes mistakes too, I really liked that. The story flows steadily, there are a lot of scenes where we just get to know her better, learn a lot about her life (both here and there) but it was enjoyable and I didn't think it too much. Some logic gaps but then it is sci-fi, so I can live with that, and a cliffhanger ending I didn't like. but that's my personal opinion and it's biased. Read it for yourself, you might enjoy it even more than I did!
59 reviews2 followers
July 13, 2015
A decent YA story. This is about Estelle who right before her eighteenth birthday learns some truths about herself, including her origins, thanks to her grandfather. Reed has been in her life since she was 9 years old, and has always had her back. This book jumps between past and present often and moves quickly. I really liked the interaction between Estelle and Reed. Their bond was special and you could tell how connected they were. There is a lot of action to this story and the cliff hanger ending will make you want to find out what happens next.
1 review1 follower
June 30, 2016
This. Book. Okay let me start off with how amazing this book was. It started out beautifully with very relatable type preferences and entered an entirely new science fiction world for me. There were killer plot twists, sadness, humor, and bravery all together. I cannot wait to read the next one. Thankyou Serena Kearney for writing this amazing story and recommending it to me!
1 review
March 27, 2015
Awesome book!! couldn't stand to put it down!!!
great characters, great story line, great twists and turns!!! This book has it all action, romance, aliens and wars!!!
I simply cannot wait for the second one.
1 review1 follower
June 3, 2015
Great Summer Read!

Excellent Book. I would give this book 5 stars. Full of surprises all along the way. I would recommend this book for those who like Suspense, Action, Thrills and Love.
19 reviews1 follower
July 9, 2015
Absolutely loved it!!

What a unique and captivating fantasy story!! I am so enthralled I need to get book 2 to see what happens next! I love the diverse characters and entertwining storylines.
Profile Image for margaret.
2 reviews1 follower
July 10, 2015
Wonderful

I couldn't put it down. The twists and turns those novels takes you on the adventures. Unforgettable moments, hanging on the edge of my seat the whole time. Highly recommended for the science fiction enthusiast.
Profile Image for Vicki Simms.
53 reviews1 follower
April 27, 2016
Excellent book!! I loved all the characters and i loved the story :) I was hooked from start to finish and the ending has made me buy the next book so i can read what happens next!!!

If your looking for a new book to read i so highly recommend buying this book..you will not be disappointed!!
Profile Image for Heather.
346 reviews5 followers
July 9, 2015
What if everything you knew changed on your 18th birthday, could you handle it? Estelle is a fierce loyal girl that truly has a remarkable ability to stand up for the underdog.
Profile Image for Ashley.
43 reviews
August 14, 2016
Wow

Definitely was not expecting the ending. What a plot twist for the second book. Also ended in a cliff hanger.
Profile Image for Lynda.
45 reviews
July 10, 2018
** I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving a free copy. This is my complete and honest opinion. **
*** This review will not include any spoilers. ***

This is a solid 5-star book!

Estelle Caldwell is your ordinary teenage girl… Or so she thought. Pneuma takes place throughout vital points in Estelle’s life. Moving from the present to key crossroads in her life, where we meet the people most important to her.
As Estelle turns 18 a gift from her granddad, puts her life and the life of her loved ones in a tailspin. Estelle finds out the truth about her past and the unclear truth about her future.
This book has an epic love triangle, unrequited love, flirtation-ship and lots and lots and lots of twist and turns with more action and adventure than on may be able to stand.

Pneuma is such a fast-passed book. Every time I thought I knew what was going to happen I was sent in a different direction.
Serena Kearney is a mastermind when it comes to developing characters and creating an unforgettable world.
I found the love triangle to be sweet without being obnoxious and annoying. In the first part of the book, Estelle is in High School. Her friends Reed, Kent, Aiden, and Dana; help Estelle make it through a life of the average human. Each of those characters are extremely well developed and make you feel like they could be your friends too.
In the last part of the book, Estelle meets family members that she never knew about and finds out who/what she really is. Astra and Eula are characters that you love to hate. Vega is a character that you can’t wait to have knocked off. Dawkins/Dennis is someone that you grow to love. There are just so many wonderful characters that pull this story into an epic tale of love, loss, and adventure.
1 review
August 7, 2022
Couldn't put it down

So good! Not at all what I was expecting. Usually with this type of genre, they are pretty predictable. This book kept me on my toes.
Profile Image for Jennifer Zamora.
324 reviews9 followers
May 23, 2016
I found this to be a rather good story. And do hope to have the ooportunity to continue the story. I think the premise is good. This is definitely a YA book... I did feel Estelle needed a little more personality, we skim over her life pretty quick, but as an 18 year she seemed pretty naive as far as guys in general go. She seems to have only had one "boyfriend" and that was 6 mos and then nothing romantically... Then at 18 her life drastically changes. Basically over night. I am just starting in the whole Sci-Fi world, so I cant say how this story is in comparison to much else. Maybe thats better, or worse. I thought the twists ad turns this story took a nice addition. It really made it all the better. And as soon you think you see whats coming, well youre just wrong. Rated lower due to cliffhanger. I do not mind books that lead into next book, but not a fan of books that end in the middle of a scene.
47 reviews
December 7, 2016
I thought I had reviewed this back when I read it. Welllllll I guess I reviewed all the others and forgot. which is amazing how I could have. This is one of those series that I really enjoyed. I have been reading a TON and there are books that you can tell need a little more fleshing out and editing. But once in a while you stumble over a series you enjoy and can't put down. I was up through much of the night reading this series. It is a keeper. The characters are well thought out and the story line flows and doesn't leave you questioning. Great job.
Profile Image for Kristen Gough.
379 reviews9 followers
September 20, 2015
This is an interesting YA sci-fi story about a girl named Estelle whose entire life changes on her eighteenth birthday. This is a fast paced story that's full of action and suspense and it's a really great read. The characters are interesting and relatable. There are some editing issues, but that doesn't take away from the story. This book does end on a cliffhanger, but the second book is available so this shouldn't be a problem.
Profile Image for Merredith.
1,022 reviews24 followers
June 6, 2016
I got 51% of the way through with this, and then realized it just wasn't that good. I could see a low budget fantasy scifi YA type TV show in my head, like how Power Rangers looked. This is about a teen who realizes she's from another world, yes, an alien. She arrives to a new family and wars between worlds. This sounds like it could be good, but somehow, it wasn't. Others may like it, but not for me.
Profile Image for Nancy.
212 reviews2 followers
May 22, 2015
Might I suggest grammar check and checking for correct word usage? It felt like I was reading one of the better novella produced by my eighth graders during our write every day for a month. Same level of sophistication and plot. Cute, terribly predictable and no substance. Sci fi high school angst.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews

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