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Pendant Series #1
Between Dreams
Sidney Sinclair was living the dream of any eighteen year-old girl…
A handsome rock star boyfriend, a closet full of designer clothes, a limousine service at her beck and call, and a mansion in the hills of Los Angeles.
Even with all that glamour and excitement at her fingertips, she still feels as if she’s been missing something in her life so she decides to leave.
While trying her best to put her dysfunctional romantic relationship aside and tend to her beloved Granny, Sidney unexpectedly stumbles upon an intriguing emerald pendant boxed away in her grandmother’s closet.
Soon she learns it once belonged to her long-lost mother who committed suicide when she was just a baby. Suddenly feeling emotionally connected to the woman who had birthed her, Sidney begins to wear the necklace.
This sends her on a whirlwind journey that alternates between fantasy and reality…
Almost immediately, she starts having dreams linked to the mysterious pendant. As danger begins to seep into her life, Sidney refuses to remove the necklace and instead documents each dream to help her further understand them. However, she soon begins to wonder if they are dreams meant to bond her to a mother whom she never knew?
Or a subconscious warning that threatens her very life?
A handsome rock star boyfriend, a closet full of designer clothes, a limousine service at her beck and call, and a mansion in the hills of Los Angeles.
Even with all that glamour and excitement at her fingertips, she still feels as if she’s been missing something in her life so she decides to leave.
While trying her best to put her dysfunctional romantic relationship aside and tend to her beloved Granny, Sidney unexpectedly stumbles upon an intriguing emerald pendant boxed away in her grandmother’s closet.
Soon she learns it once belonged to her long-lost mother who committed suicide when she was just a baby. Suddenly feeling emotionally connected to the woman who had birthed her, Sidney begins to wear the necklace.
This sends her on a whirlwind journey that alternates between fantasy and reality…
Almost immediately, she starts having dreams linked to the mysterious pendant. As danger begins to seep into her life, Sidney refuses to remove the necklace and instead documents each dream to help her further understand them. However, she soon begins to wonder if they are dreams meant to bond her to a mother whom she never knew?
Or a subconscious warning that threatens her very life?
198 pages, Paperback
First published April 28, 2015
17 people are currently reading
411 people want to read
About the author
Cynthia Austin
11 books299 followersCynthia Austin lives in Northern California with her
husband, two boys, and Olde English Bulldogge named Count
Dogula. They love all things horror, gothic, and Victorian
which prompts her friends to dub them as “The Adams
Family.”
She is an avid reader who may be slightly obsessed with
music. She hears music in a way that she believes the
artist intended it to be heard: visually, with a storyline
that follows. Listening to the songs by her favorite
artists, she was inspired to write her first series titled
“The Pendant.”
Cynthia has been published twice in The Writer’s Monthly
Magazine as well as the online news site, Yahoo!
Voices. She currently attends Diablo Valley College, in
Pleasant Hill, California, where she is working to achieve
her degree in English.
husband, two boys, and Olde English Bulldogge named Count
Dogula. They love all things horror, gothic, and Victorian
which prompts her friends to dub them as “The Adams
Family.”
She is an avid reader who may be slightly obsessed with
music. She hears music in a way that she believes the
artist intended it to be heard: visually, with a storyline
that follows. Listening to the songs by her favorite
artists, she was inspired to write her first series titled
“The Pendant.”
Cynthia has been published twice in The Writer’s Monthly
Magazine as well as the online news site, Yahoo!
Voices. She currently attends Diablo Valley College, in
Pleasant Hill, California, where she is working to achieve
her degree in English.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
May 30, 2017
It seemed that Sidney was living in a dream world, her boyfriend was an up and coming rockstar, he took her to LA to share his life in the spotlight and their love was strong. Raised by her grandmother, Sidney knows what love is, and when a tragedy brings her home, her life and her outlook on life are about to take a headlong dive into an often frustrating, but certainly revealing world where dreams can take on new meanings and can point the way to true happiness and enlightenment. But first, to get through reality, one day and one heartache at a time as she assumes the mantle of caregiver for the woman who was her one constant in life.
She found a piece of her past in a small box, an emerald pendant from her mother and that pendant becomes a magical talisman for Sidney the moment she put it on. We all dream, but for Sidney, her dreams feel real, they hold a message she must learn to understand, will her dreams become as real as her reality or will they overtake her ability to process life as it is? Where will they lead her, and to whom? Does her boyfriend still love her or has the glitter and glitz of LA put his ego on high speed, forgetting about those who truly care about him? Will Sidney find the strength to see him for who and what he is?
Between Dreams by Cynthia Austin is more than a young love story struggling to survive, this is a tale of one young woman, overwhelmed with the responsibilities of a person far more mature and able to handle them, as she forges ahead doing “the right thing.” Ms. Austin has taken us inside the heart and mind of Sidney as she struggles with alternating feelings of hopelessness, hope, resentment and longing for the life she had planned on living. Her portrayal of Sidney is spot on for a person in her position, she is young, still a teen and anyone who knows the weight of being a caregiver and of being responsible for the life of someone who once took care of her, you will understand, these are not the feelings of a selfish person, they are real, gut-deep feelings, but natural and far too realistic.
A powerful read if one looks beneath the surface with a touch of something otherworldly crafted as hints to things to come. A little dark, sometimes high on angst, but told in bold strokes of the pen.
My Rating: 4.5 Stars
Series: The Pendant Series - Book 1
Publisher: Limitless Publishing LLC
Publication Date: April 28, 2015
ISBN: 1680581104
Genre: Urban Fantasy Romance
Print Length: 198 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
She found a piece of her past in a small box, an emerald pendant from her mother and that pendant becomes a magical talisman for Sidney the moment she put it on. We all dream, but for Sidney, her dreams feel real, they hold a message she must learn to understand, will her dreams become as real as her reality or will they overtake her ability to process life as it is? Where will they lead her, and to whom? Does her boyfriend still love her or has the glitter and glitz of LA put his ego on high speed, forgetting about those who truly care about him? Will Sidney find the strength to see him for who and what he is?
Between Dreams by Cynthia Austin is more than a young love story struggling to survive, this is a tale of one young woman, overwhelmed with the responsibilities of a person far more mature and able to handle them, as she forges ahead doing “the right thing.” Ms. Austin has taken us inside the heart and mind of Sidney as she struggles with alternating feelings of hopelessness, hope, resentment and longing for the life she had planned on living. Her portrayal of Sidney is spot on for a person in her position, she is young, still a teen and anyone who knows the weight of being a caregiver and of being responsible for the life of someone who once took care of her, you will understand, these are not the feelings of a selfish person, they are real, gut-deep feelings, but natural and far too realistic.
A powerful read if one looks beneath the surface with a touch of something otherworldly crafted as hints to things to come. A little dark, sometimes high on angst, but told in bold strokes of the pen.
My Rating: 4.5 Stars
Series: The Pendant Series - Book 1
Publisher: Limitless Publishing LLC
Publication Date: April 28, 2015
ISBN: 1680581104
Genre: Urban Fantasy Romance
Print Length: 198 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
February 8, 2016
Sidney is only eighteen when she moves to LA to support her rock star boyfriend Ray, leaving her dreams to follow his.
When her grandmother suffers a stroke, she travels home to help her and it is when she is cleaning her grandmother's room that she comes across a pendant which had belonged to her mother. Intrigued by it, she puts it on and thats when the strange dreams begin.
I really liked this book. It had a little bit of everything. Most people, will find that Sidney leaving her dream to be a track star to follow her boyfriend as a weakness, but she's eighteen and thinks she is in love with this boy, what do you expect? I like that the author brought this aspect into the book, because it was just enough to give Sidney's character that real feel.
When her grandmother suffers a stroke, she travels home to help her and it is when she is cleaning her grandmother's room that she comes across a pendant which had belonged to her mother. Intrigued by it, she puts it on and thats when the strange dreams begin.
I really liked this book. It had a little bit of everything. Most people, will find that Sidney leaving her dream to be a track star to follow her boyfriend as a weakness, but she's eighteen and thinks she is in love with this boy, what do you expect? I like that the author brought this aspect into the book, because it was just enough to give Sidney's character that real feel.
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March 14, 2016
Ms. Cynthia Austin contacted me a few weeks ago about a read request for this book and while I almost always say no thank you to fantasy novels, this one piqued my interest because the blurb was interesting and it was highly rated by quite a few people. So I just had to get my hands on it to see what all of the fuss was about. Nothing worse than being left out, right?!?
I actually have quite a few thoughts on this one and I'm not totally sure where to start off. I think talking about Sidney first is a good start... here's the deal ... the girl is a doormat. And let's be honest, I just love a flawed character and her being a doormat kind of appealed to me. I was very interested to see where she would go from that first page because surely there would be some growth involved. Unfortunately, Sid didn't change much from the beginning. She is taken advantage of in multiple different ways and it was a little hard to read after a while. I just wanted to take her by the shoulders and shake some sense into this crazy woman. It almost became painful with each page turn because I wanted her to stand up for herself but it never happened.
The reason that there wasn't much character growth is probably because this book is pretty short and it's part of a series. There was a feeling of escalation from the very beginning and I won't lie, I was uber-irritated when it ended on a cliffhanger. I HATE cliffhangers with a fiery passion. I just hate being left in the lurch. If you don't like cliffhangers, you'll want to wait to pick this one up until the next in the series is out because the bear trap of an ending just snaps shut right in the middle of a scene basically.
And finally ... the thing that I've been perplexed by since I finished the book. There's a religious aspect that I definitely was not expecting. It took me by surprise, actually. At times, it felt a tad bit preachy and then there were religious debates almost that ... I don't know ... it just didn't do it for me. Don't get me wrong, it's an interesting concept within the book about Adam and Eve and the events surrounding that and what if there was another man for Eve but the almost bible-bashing by Sid and then the preachy moments ... I was ultimately just turned off, I guess. I'm not totally for sure why ... I'm not one of those crazy-religious people, so it didn't offend me at all. I think that at the crux of it my unrest is the fact that it felt like two totally different books being mashed together ... the stuff with Sid and her d-bag rocker and then Sid and her dreams. Maybe the next book in the series is going to tie both of these worlds together and it will be all good. It just didn't feel all good with this one. Too disjointed. I think that I'll need to put this one aside for now and then maybe read it again sometime later. Perhaps a second reading will bring up some different feelings.
* I received this novel in exchange for an honest review *
Check out more of my reviews at Little Miss Bookmark!
April 26, 2018
Sidney graduates high school and is about to embark on new life, along with her soon-to-be rock star boyfriend, Ray Ryker. It’s the dream life so why does regret fill Sidney’s heart? Then she gets word her grandmother, who raised her, had a stroke and needs care. Sidney leaves Ray in L.A. and becomes primary caregiver to her grandmother. Ray resents her leaving and Sidney doesn’t know what to do.
One day, she and her best friend are going through her grandmother’s closet. They discover a green pendant. Sidney knows in an instant this necklace belongs to her deceased mother, the one she knows practically nothing about. The necklace is her one connection to her mother and puts it on.
Sidney starts having strange erotic dreams about a green-eyed handsome man and a few days later, he shows up in real life at her job at the grocery store. She’s drawn to him, not knowing why and starts down a path wreaked with deception, lies and attraction.
As a first book in the series, I found it to be well-written with plenty of suspense and mystery. I loved the mystery surrounding Adrian and I spent most of the book trying to figure out what he was. Was he a demon, Lucifer, vampire, ghost or something else?
Two things really bothered: the author’s romanticizing of smoking (mystery man Adrian smokes) and the abrupt ending. If Mr. N had been reviewing this book, he would’ve given it a -500/10. Both of us had fathers who smoked and died at an early age. In this day and age, I find it irresponsible of both the author and the publishing company to promote smoking in this way to youth and adults alike.
I hate endings that just up and end. I’m all for cliff-hangers in books but to just end it like that was horrible and made me want to throw the book out the window. I know it’s a big trend in books to have serial books have an abrupt cliff-hanger (to get readers to buy the next one to see what happens) but I really don’t care for it.
My Rating: 3/5
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/
One day, she and her best friend are going through her grandmother’s closet. They discover a green pendant. Sidney knows in an instant this necklace belongs to her deceased mother, the one she knows practically nothing about. The necklace is her one connection to her mother and puts it on.
Sidney starts having strange erotic dreams about a green-eyed handsome man and a few days later, he shows up in real life at her job at the grocery store. She’s drawn to him, not knowing why and starts down a path wreaked with deception, lies and attraction.
As a first book in the series, I found it to be well-written with plenty of suspense and mystery. I loved the mystery surrounding Adrian and I spent most of the book trying to figure out what he was. Was he a demon, Lucifer, vampire, ghost or something else?
Two things really bothered: the author’s romanticizing of smoking (mystery man Adrian smokes) and the abrupt ending. If Mr. N had been reviewing this book, he would’ve given it a -500/10. Both of us had fathers who smoked and died at an early age. In this day and age, I find it irresponsible of both the author and the publishing company to promote smoking in this way to youth and adults alike.
I hate endings that just up and end. I’m all for cliff-hangers in books but to just end it like that was horrible and made me want to throw the book out the window. I know it’s a big trend in books to have serial books have an abrupt cliff-hanger (to get readers to buy the next one to see what happens) but I really don’t care for it.
My Rating: 3/5
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/
May 26, 2016
Sidney has everything an eighteen year old could possibly ask for. A boyfriend who is a lead singer in a band, and a limitless future. Her life style in LA with her boyfriend, Ray, is quite enviable. But she is missing something that would make her complete--she doesn't quite know what! The destiny has something else in store for her--her grandma has a heart stroke that draws her back to home. She has a chain of dreams--as she wears her mother's pendant--as though a power is trying to communicate something meaningful and important to her. What would Sidney find? Will that shake her world or make it?
A powerful paranormal romance novel from Cynthia that has lot to offer beneath its main story line. Highly recommended for the YA readers of paranormal romance!
A powerful paranormal romance novel from Cynthia that has lot to offer beneath its main story line. Highly recommended for the YA readers of paranormal romance!
March 14, 2016
I wasn't sure how I was going to feel about this book. In my teenage days, I got sucked into the Gossip Girl, A-List style novels about these young girls with ridiculously unbelievable lives of fame and Grandeur. Looking back now, I realize how utterly annoyed I actually was by these stories. When I saw the beginning of this description I thought this was just going to be another one of these stories.
- Ciara Elizabeth
Full Review: http://www.yafangirlreviews.com/2016/...
- Ciara Elizabeth
Full Review: http://www.yafangirlreviews.com/2016/...
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April 29, 2016I just couldn't get into this story. The relationship drama between a college aged girl and her musician boyfriend didn't do anything for me, and a quarter of the way in, I'd only just been introduced to the titular pendant.
There might be some interesting mystery and plot to this story, and those who like relationships on the rocks will likely enjoy this, but it's just not for me.
There might be some interesting mystery and plot to this story, and those who like relationships on the rocks will likely enjoy this, but it's just not for me.
April 5, 2016
Truly enjoyed and surprised by the cliffhanger! Can't wait to read book two!
June 26, 2017
This book had a really slow start. I'm not saying that's bad, but it's a matter of preference. The writing is great, and almost to descriptive at times, but it's easy to be taken away by this writer.
Now, it was about halfway into this book when it really grabbed me. I wish it had sooner, but I stuck with it and i'm glad that I did. I really love Adrian's character. He's got a really sexy vibe and totally mysterious, which I think you will love.
And Sidney left me pissed off at some moments. A bit of a doormat when it came to her long term rock star boyfriend, but I guess being that it's all she knows, it's pretty realistic when you think about it. I hated seeing her let him walk on her and charm her over and over again, but isn't that what books are supposed to do? Pull us in, make us mad, sad, happy, and take us on a ride?
Despite the way this book started, I'm glad that I decided to stick with it. It came through in the end. Now, I'll say this, it ends with a massive cliff hanger, pretty abrupt. It jarred me a bit and if not for the fact that the next book is available I would have hated the way it ended. No loose ends were really tied up, it just ends with a stunner and we are left holding the book and looking for the next page that isn't there. After a chat with the author, I discovered that originally this series was one book, at in editing it was broken down into a series. Knowing this, I can understand better why this book ended the way it did. Don't let this stop you, since book two is available. I recommend buying them both at the same time, LOL
Now, it was about halfway into this book when it really grabbed me. I wish it had sooner, but I stuck with it and i'm glad that I did. I really love Adrian's character. He's got a really sexy vibe and totally mysterious, which I think you will love.
And Sidney left me pissed off at some moments. A bit of a doormat when it came to her long term rock star boyfriend, but I guess being that it's all she knows, it's pretty realistic when you think about it. I hated seeing her let him walk on her and charm her over and over again, but isn't that what books are supposed to do? Pull us in, make us mad, sad, happy, and take us on a ride?
Despite the way this book started, I'm glad that I decided to stick with it. It came through in the end. Now, I'll say this, it ends with a massive cliff hanger, pretty abrupt. It jarred me a bit and if not for the fact that the next book is available I would have hated the way it ended. No loose ends were really tied up, it just ends with a stunner and we are left holding the book and looking for the next page that isn't there. After a chat with the author, I discovered that originally this series was one book, at in editing it was broken down into a series. Knowing this, I can understand better why this book ended the way it did. Don't let this stop you, since book two is available. I recommend buying them both at the same time, LOL
November 2, 2017
When Sidney's boyfriend gets an offer for the job of his dreams she puts his dreams ahead of hers but life has other plans. Soon she must return to her tiny town to be the caretaker for her grandmother which prompts a rethinking of her decisions, and a cleaning spree that delivers a box of possessions once belonging to her deceased mother, bearing a mysterious pendant. Soon strange dreams emerge and she meets a new man who interests her, only to find that her boyfriend is back to make another play. Will she have to pick between them? What is the meaning of the dreams? Does the pendant have anything to do with them?
This is a great coming of age story as we watch Sidney struggle to come to terms with her situation, who she is, and what she wants out of life. The author leaves it open at the end with questions that are undoubtedly answered in following books.
This is a great coming of age story as we watch Sidney struggle to come to terms with her situation, who she is, and what she wants out of life. The author leaves it open at the end with questions that are undoubtedly answered in following books.
March 1, 2018
Between Dreams follows the story of Sidney, a young girl whose relationship begins to crumble under the weight of her boyfriend's budding career as a rock musician. While she feels pressured to stay home and take care of her grandmother, whose health is declining, her relationship is naturally strained.
In the midst of the emotional turmoil, she finds a necklace with an unusual pendant, and the startling green color draws her in and piques her interest. It belonged to her mother, who has since passed away. After she starts wearing the necklace, she begins having strange dreams about a man with the same color eyes as her pendant. When the man materializes in real life, it keeps the reader guessing: Is he real? This story is interwoven with concepts that touch on Adam and Eve, and the beginning of everything, while the main character seems to grapple with her own spirituality.
Reader beware: This story ends with a cliff hanger, but it's the kind that will make you want to pick up book two! I found this to be an engaging tale that keeps the pace very well. The only reason I am giving this four stars is because there are areas I would have liked to have seen developed more deeply. Without giving away any spoilers, I recommend this book for anyone who enjoys paranormal romance and fantasy.
In the midst of the emotional turmoil, she finds a necklace with an unusual pendant, and the startling green color draws her in and piques her interest. It belonged to her mother, who has since passed away. After she starts wearing the necklace, she begins having strange dreams about a man with the same color eyes as her pendant. When the man materializes in real life, it keeps the reader guessing: Is he real? This story is interwoven with concepts that touch on Adam and Eve, and the beginning of everything, while the main character seems to grapple with her own spirituality.
Reader beware: This story ends with a cliff hanger, but it's the kind that will make you want to pick up book two! I found this to be an engaging tale that keeps the pace very well. The only reason I am giving this four stars is because there are areas I would have liked to have seen developed more deeply. Without giving away any spoilers, I recommend this book for anyone who enjoys paranormal romance and fantasy.
November 7, 2017
Four and a half stars!
Wow, this has me panting for more. Sydney has a famous boyfriend, at the outset, everything is great for her. But, she is beginning to doubt her feelings for him and his feelings for her. As she begins to see the problems, she is also tempted by something that seems almost magical, beyond this world. And, when she sees the temptation in the flesh, she will begin to wonder about whether everything is as it seems. I will not spoil the story but I can say that the book ends with you wanting to know more, read more. It is one of those feelings where you get the taste of something wonderful, but you haven't really had your fill. That's how I feel. I can't wait to read the other books in the series!
Wow, this has me panting for more. Sydney has a famous boyfriend, at the outset, everything is great for her. But, she is beginning to doubt her feelings for him and his feelings for her. As she begins to see the problems, she is also tempted by something that seems almost magical, beyond this world. And, when she sees the temptation in the flesh, she will begin to wonder about whether everything is as it seems. I will not spoil the story but I can say that the book ends with you wanting to know more, read more. It is one of those feelings where you get the taste of something wonderful, but you haven't really had your fill. That's how I feel. I can't wait to read the other books in the series!
January 25, 2018
From the first page the characters are well formed and invite you into a world that young adults will eagerly delve into. Cynthia Austin seamlessly melds religion, fantasy and real world issues that her readers can relate to. A tale of discovery and coming of age that gives a new take on a classic love theme. This three-book series is sure to keep readers spellbound and coming back for more.
May 6, 2015
Between Dreams is an intriguing book where present day meets paranormal dreams.
Sidney is in love. Head over heels in love with Ray, the lead singer in an up and coming rock band. They have been dating for two years and they can't imagine life without each other -- not even for one second. With that said, when Ray signed his record contract, it was also said that wherever he goes, Sidney goes.
The two were living the dream until tragedy strikes with Granny -- the amazing woman who raised Sid. She knew that she had to go back home. After everything that Granny has done for her, the wonderful life she provided .. she felt that she owed her to be there for her. Therefore, against Ray's wishes, Sid headed back home.
Upon cleaning out her grandmother's closet, Sid came across a gorgeous green pendant. Sid knew she would never take it off, as it held memories of her precious mom with it. She began having dreams. These dreams involved a man with the same green pendant eyes. She immediately feels a connection to him, but she doesn't know who this stranger is. She only sees his eyes. Until one day -- those eyes come through her check-out line at Safeway. Sid was mesmerized and the stranger, later known as Aidan, is mesmerized by that pendant.
The two become friends, after turmoil in her relationship with Ray, due to distance. Ray asks her to stay away from Aidan, but there is just something that draws her toward him.
Is what Sid's feeling for Aidan, love? Lust? Mystery? What will happen with Ray? Will she forgive him and live her fantasy life with him? What do these dreams, the pendant, and Aidan have to do with one another?
This is one interesting, fast read. I read it in one sitting because it is that intriguing. Just be prepared for a cliffhanger at the end. I can't wait for the sequel. Please hurry Cynthia Austin!!!
Sidney is in love. Head over heels in love with Ray, the lead singer in an up and coming rock band. They have been dating for two years and they can't imagine life without each other -- not even for one second. With that said, when Ray signed his record contract, it was also said that wherever he goes, Sidney goes.
The two were living the dream until tragedy strikes with Granny -- the amazing woman who raised Sid. She knew that she had to go back home. After everything that Granny has done for her, the wonderful life she provided .. she felt that she owed her to be there for her. Therefore, against Ray's wishes, Sid headed back home.
Upon cleaning out her grandmother's closet, Sid came across a gorgeous green pendant. Sid knew she would never take it off, as it held memories of her precious mom with it. She began having dreams. These dreams involved a man with the same green pendant eyes. She immediately feels a connection to him, but she doesn't know who this stranger is. She only sees his eyes. Until one day -- those eyes come through her check-out line at Safeway. Sid was mesmerized and the stranger, later known as Aidan, is mesmerized by that pendant.
The two become friends, after turmoil in her relationship with Ray, due to distance. Ray asks her to stay away from Aidan, but there is just something that draws her toward him.
Is what Sid's feeling for Aidan, love? Lust? Mystery? What will happen with Ray? Will she forgive him and live her fantasy life with him? What do these dreams, the pendant, and Aidan have to do with one another?
This is one interesting, fast read. I read it in one sitting because it is that intriguing. Just be prepared for a cliffhanger at the end. I can't wait for the sequel. Please hurry Cynthia Austin!!!
June 6, 2016
I wanted so much for this book
I love the premise. I began to care about the characters, but then, I didn't. The writing style was beautifully descriptive, sometimes overdone to the point that I lost interest and I wasn't sure what was exactly going on.
Yes, Sidney's boyfriend, Ray is a douchbag... I didn't care about that. It was true to his nature because he was young and gaining notoriety. I understood why she would put up with it. I worked through all of that, but my confusion was with Adrian.
Adrian's character was a complete contradiction. He was up and down and too all around to really care. I think about the possibilities of who he could be... Of her dreams, of her mother, and her grandmother and it really got to the point that I didn't care anymore. I wanted more of Sidney's relationship with Ray... Two characters that had substance.
I realize that this book is a first in a series, so I will give it the benefit of the doubt that it is setting everything up. It is a complex story that is hard to tell because it evokes religious beliefs that can deter some readers, but I found that I liked the twist that it provided, but I needed Adrian to maybe be fleshed out a bit more. He seems powerful, but weak, and maybe that is the intention.
I felt like in the end of this that I didn't care about who Sidney ended up with.
On a final note, I will be curious to read further into the series, and it wasn't because I felt the cliffhanger was so bad. I want to see where the writer is going with this very complex tale. The cliffhanger, in my opinion, wasn't that bad. I had enough details to know there was continuance to this saga, and I needed a break. So, it was a break. 3.5 stars.
I love the premise. I began to care about the characters, but then, I didn't. The writing style was beautifully descriptive, sometimes overdone to the point that I lost interest and I wasn't sure what was exactly going on.
Yes, Sidney's boyfriend, Ray is a douchbag... I didn't care about that. It was true to his nature because he was young and gaining notoriety. I understood why she would put up with it. I worked through all of that, but my confusion was with Adrian.
Adrian's character was a complete contradiction. He was up and down and too all around to really care. I think about the possibilities of who he could be... Of her dreams, of her mother, and her grandmother and it really got to the point that I didn't care anymore. I wanted more of Sidney's relationship with Ray... Two characters that had substance.
I realize that this book is a first in a series, so I will give it the benefit of the doubt that it is setting everything up. It is a complex story that is hard to tell because it evokes religious beliefs that can deter some readers, but I found that I liked the twist that it provided, but I needed Adrian to maybe be fleshed out a bit more. He seems powerful, but weak, and maybe that is the intention.
I felt like in the end of this that I didn't care about who Sidney ended up with.
On a final note, I will be curious to read further into the series, and it wasn't because I felt the cliffhanger was so bad. I want to see where the writer is going with this very complex tale. The cliffhanger, in my opinion, wasn't that bad. I had enough details to know there was continuance to this saga, and I needed a break. So, it was a break. 3.5 stars.
June 8, 2015
*I was given a copy of this book as a gift from Stephanie's Book Reports in exchange for an honest review.
3 stars for Between Dreams by Cynthia Austin. This is the first book in the Pendant series and falls within the paranormal genre.
Shorty after graduating high school, Sidney gives up her dreams of going to college and becoming a track star. She does this in order to travel to LA with her long time boyfriend Ray who is pursuing his dreams of becoming the next big rock star. Shortly after arriving in LA, she learns that her beloved granny has suffered a massive stroke, and she decides that she must return home to help care for her.
One day, she is cleaning out her granny's closet and finds a box of her deceased mother's possessions. Among the items is a necklace from which dangles a beautiful emerald pendant. She is excited to finally have some physical connection to her mother, so she puts the necklace on and vows to never take it off. Not long after this, she begins to have mysterious dreams about a man whose eyes match the emerald color of the pendant. She is shocked when she meets a young man who looks exactly like the one from her dreams. She can't explain why, but she is drawn to this man like a magnet. When her deceased mother appears in her dreams to warn her of impending danger, will Sidney listen before it is too late?
This was an okay read for me. Ray and Sidney both ticked me off- him for being a major douche bag and her for being his doormat! The story does end in a huge cliffhanger, and I will probably read the next book in the series to find out how everything comes together. Over all, this was just not my cup of tea.
3 stars for Between Dreams by Cynthia Austin. This is the first book in the Pendant series and falls within the paranormal genre.
Shorty after graduating high school, Sidney gives up her dreams of going to college and becoming a track star. She does this in order to travel to LA with her long time boyfriend Ray who is pursuing his dreams of becoming the next big rock star. Shortly after arriving in LA, she learns that her beloved granny has suffered a massive stroke, and she decides that she must return home to help care for her.
One day, she is cleaning out her granny's closet and finds a box of her deceased mother's possessions. Among the items is a necklace from which dangles a beautiful emerald pendant. She is excited to finally have some physical connection to her mother, so she puts the necklace on and vows to never take it off. Not long after this, she begins to have mysterious dreams about a man whose eyes match the emerald color of the pendant. She is shocked when she meets a young man who looks exactly like the one from her dreams. She can't explain why, but she is drawn to this man like a magnet. When her deceased mother appears in her dreams to warn her of impending danger, will Sidney listen before it is too late?
This was an okay read for me. Ray and Sidney both ticked me off- him for being a major douche bag and her for being his doormat! The story does end in a huge cliffhanger, and I will probably read the next book in the series to find out how everything comes together. Over all, this was just not my cup of tea.
June 8, 2015
When Sidney was a baby , her mother killed herself and her Dad couldn't cope - so he up and left her with her grandmother. During Sidney's final years at high school, she met Ray and they fell head over heels with each other. Now Ray and his band have hit the bigtime and Ray wants Sidney to join him in LA. Sidney arrives in LA with Ray and things are going great until her Grandmother Emmy gets sick and Sidney must choose between being with her Grandmother or Ray. She chooses her grandmother and so begins the rocky relationship between her and Ray - which I have to say he comes across as quite a selfish character. As Emmy gets worse, Sidney and her friend are out clearing and cleaning out Emmy's stuff when they come across a box marked "Isabella" - now this was Sidney's mother's name . Inside the box are a couple of photos and a pendant . A green emerald that looks like a family heirloom. As Sidney wears it though, strange things start happening and she begins to dream of ancient times and a sort-of Adam and Eve Creation story , though in this story - there is an extra person called Samuael who is in love with Eve , but Eve has to marry Adam. What will happen though when Adrian McAllister rocks up to town and he matches the description down to the voice pattern of Sidney's dream guy ? Who will she choose and what powers has she unleashed since finding the pendant ?Has this pendant got something to do with her mother's untimely death and will Sidney succumb to the same fate ?
A word of warning to the reader , this book does end in a major cliffhanger. So if you aren't one for cliffies, then beware.
A word of warning to the reader , this book does end in a major cliffhanger. So if you aren't one for cliffies, then beware.
December 12, 2018
This is one of those books you pick up, plan to read a few chapters, but stay up way past bed time to finish.
When Sidney’s boyfriend Ray gets a big break in the music industry, he takes her along with him on the journey. Who doesn’t want a Rockstar lifestyle? Then, the shattering news. Sidney’s Granny, the woman who raised her, has suffered a massive stroke. Now, she has to leave her boyfriend and her new life to take care of her.
Resentment boils to a stunning edge causing a massive rift in Sidney and Ray’s relationship. One which may never be repaired.
While cleaning out her Granny’s closet, Sidney finds an emerald necklace of her mothers. After putting it on, her dreams take her to a world that has her questioning the difference between reality and fantasy. Especially when she meets the dark and mysterious Adrian, the man she’d been dreaming about.
This book sucked me in and didn’t let go. Sidney’s character is very indicative of a young woman who’s trying to take the next leap in life but realizes the cusp of adulthood is full of pitfalls. My favorite thing is the draw of the two male love interests. Ray is her high school sweetheart. He fights for her to come with him as he makes it big. Then, he makes a woozy of a mistake. One that will make you hate him. In the end, there’s still enough of a romantic edge that I’m vying for things to work out between the two. Adrian, on the other hand is broody and mysterious. It’s as if the city itself swarms around him, the air full of forbidden secrets. Woven into the plot is a sense of foreboding, a dangerous undercurrent that takes you under. I highly recommend Between Dreams!
When Sidney’s boyfriend Ray gets a big break in the music industry, he takes her along with him on the journey. Who doesn’t want a Rockstar lifestyle? Then, the shattering news. Sidney’s Granny, the woman who raised her, has suffered a massive stroke. Now, she has to leave her boyfriend and her new life to take care of her.
Resentment boils to a stunning edge causing a massive rift in Sidney and Ray’s relationship. One which may never be repaired.
While cleaning out her Granny’s closet, Sidney finds an emerald necklace of her mothers. After putting it on, her dreams take her to a world that has her questioning the difference between reality and fantasy. Especially when she meets the dark and mysterious Adrian, the man she’d been dreaming about.
This book sucked me in and didn’t let go. Sidney’s character is very indicative of a young woman who’s trying to take the next leap in life but realizes the cusp of adulthood is full of pitfalls. My favorite thing is the draw of the two male love interests. Ray is her high school sweetheart. He fights for her to come with him as he makes it big. Then, he makes a woozy of a mistake. One that will make you hate him. In the end, there’s still enough of a romantic edge that I’m vying for things to work out between the two. Adrian, on the other hand is broody and mysterious. It’s as if the city itself swarms around him, the air full of forbidden secrets. Woven into the plot is a sense of foreboding, a dangerous undercurrent that takes you under. I highly recommend Between Dreams!
September 8, 2016
As I began to read ‘Between Dreams’, I thought this was yet another heart-breaking love-story where the girl follows her musician boyfriend towards tragedy. But I was surprised and swept away by a unique, unusual story that is equal parts occult, psychological thriller, and straight-up romance.
Sidney, the eighteen-year old protagonist, gives up her dreams of going to college and becoming a track star. Instead, she travels to LA with her long time boyfriend Ray who wants to become the next big rock star. Sidney's confusion over her future with her fiancé, pushes the envelope a bit, and she makes some poor decisions. But then she dsicovers her deceased mother’s pendant. A magical link connects Sidney with her mother, and she begins to have vivid dreams. She's transported to a land of alternate reality, and things begin to turn in a very different direction.
Overall, the characters seem real, especially Sidney, Ray and Chrissy. The dialogue is crisp, real and believable even when you disagree with a character's decision. Sidney is very likable; she's seen her fair share of hardships (losing her mother to suicide and caring for her old grandmother). She's having relationship difficulties but she blossoms into a strong female with a growing sense of self-worth. She stumbles, picks herself up, and figures things out in the world.
Author Cynthia Austin has expertly crafted a powerful paranormal romance novel with a riveting story that is well written, has strong characterizations, and is full of surprising twists.
Sidney, the eighteen-year old protagonist, gives up her dreams of going to college and becoming a track star. Instead, she travels to LA with her long time boyfriend Ray who wants to become the next big rock star. Sidney's confusion over her future with her fiancé, pushes the envelope a bit, and she makes some poor decisions. But then she dsicovers her deceased mother’s pendant. A magical link connects Sidney with her mother, and she begins to have vivid dreams. She's transported to a land of alternate reality, and things begin to turn in a very different direction.
Overall, the characters seem real, especially Sidney, Ray and Chrissy. The dialogue is crisp, real and believable even when you disagree with a character's decision. Sidney is very likable; she's seen her fair share of hardships (losing her mother to suicide and caring for her old grandmother). She's having relationship difficulties but she blossoms into a strong female with a growing sense of self-worth. She stumbles, picks herself up, and figures things out in the world.
Author Cynthia Austin has expertly crafted a powerful paranormal romance novel with a riveting story that is well written, has strong characterizations, and is full of surprising twists.
February 5, 2017
Sidney aka Sid is eighteen when she moves to LA to support her long term boyfriend Ray realise his dream as a Rock Star. She has everything most girls can only dream of but shortly afterwards, her grandmother who brought her up since she was a baby suffers from a stroke and she returns home to look after her.
Whilst tidying up her grandmother's room, she comes across a pendant which belonged to her mother and decides to wear it. She starts having recurring dreams which soon fade when she wakes up. The nature of these dreams are fairly obscure and Sid starts to keep a diary to try and make sense of them. At the same time, she is trying to keep her now fragile relationship with Ray whilst working and looking after her grandmother. She is a strong, dedicated and down to earth character.
Then there is Adrian who claims to be stopping by to see to some personal business. I must admit that I find him intriguing. Who is he really?
I like the twists and turns in this first part of the series and the way it ends has piqued my interest even more, to find out what happens next.
This book would appeal to young adults who like their romance with plenty of suspense, heartache, love and betrayal with a touch of the paranormal.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Whilst tidying up her grandmother's room, she comes across a pendant which belonged to her mother and decides to wear it. She starts having recurring dreams which soon fade when she wakes up. The nature of these dreams are fairly obscure and Sid starts to keep a diary to try and make sense of them. At the same time, she is trying to keep her now fragile relationship with Ray whilst working and looking after her grandmother. She is a strong, dedicated and down to earth character.
Then there is Adrian who claims to be stopping by to see to some personal business. I must admit that I find him intriguing. Who is he really?
I like the twists and turns in this first part of the series and the way it ends has piqued my interest even more, to find out what happens next.
This book would appeal to young adults who like their romance with plenty of suspense, heartache, love and betrayal with a touch of the paranormal.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 21, 2016
Holy moly. I was really surprised by this book. It’s starts off with a slightly typical, my-rocker-boyfriend-is-being-a-douche scenario. Well, it doesn’t stay that way for too long. Between Dreams really did have me from the beginning, even though I thought I knew what was coming. Annnndd I was wrong.
Sidney did piss me off a little bit – giving up on herself and what she worked hard to accomplish for her boyfriend? WTF?! You are going to have to move past this, there never was a moment that clicked “OK, I get it now.” So just accept and move forward. Sid is with Ray (said d-bag) and has to leave him “Buuutt you proooooomissssed!!” Whatevs Ray. Whatevs.
After some time a part, Sidney finds a necklace that belonged to her mother and all I could think of was:
"My Precious!!!"
I loved it!! The inexplicable connection that PNR offers is my favorite. Because you don’t neeeeed an explanation. Well, not a normal one at least. So this necklace catches the eye of someone not Ray (wooo hooo!!) and Sidney starts to think maybe she needs something different.
Now, I am not a fan of the triangle. I usually hate them. But when the BF is a DB, I have a little flexibility. I hope I do not get burned in book two. I always get nervous when resolution is coming, but not here yet. So, bring on Book 2 Cynthia, bring it on! (3.5 stars…..though leaning toward 4)
Sidney did piss me off a little bit – giving up on herself and what she worked hard to accomplish for her boyfriend? WTF?! You are going to have to move past this, there never was a moment that clicked “OK, I get it now.” So just accept and move forward. Sid is with Ray (said d-bag) and has to leave him “Buuutt you proooooomissssed!!” Whatevs Ray. Whatevs.
After some time a part, Sidney finds a necklace that belonged to her mother and all I could think of was:
"My Precious!!!"
I loved it!! The inexplicable connection that PNR offers is my favorite. Because you don’t neeeeed an explanation. Well, not a normal one at least. So this necklace catches the eye of someone not Ray (wooo hooo!!) and Sidney starts to think maybe she needs something different.
Now, I am not a fan of the triangle. I usually hate them. But when the BF is a DB, I have a little flexibility. I hope I do not get burned in book two. I always get nervous when resolution is coming, but not here yet. So, bring on Book 2 Cynthia, bring it on! (3.5 stars…..though leaning toward 4)
April 16, 2019
Sidney is a nineteen year old woman who outwardly appears to be living the dream you only see in the movies. Her rock star boyfriend has gotten a big recording contract and wants her to live with him in the record company's posh digs in Los Angeles. Young and in love, she throws away her own dreams to follow him, but when her grandmother has a stroke she returns home to take care of her. The only parent she has ever known, Sidney loves her dearly, but when Sidney finds a necklace once owned by her mother, strange things begin to happen.
This was a fast-paced and easy to read fun book. The descriptions were vivid and I felt the author did a good job of setting a sense of place. As a character, Sidney was frustrating as she and her best friend, Chrissy, bought into the female stereotype of letting a man convince her that his hopes and dreams were far more important than her own. Since this is a series, I'm hoping this is part of her character arc as there were moments where she finally asserted herself, but then fell back into the trap when her boyfriend started paying attention to her again. Also, the supernatural elements came in a bit late and weren't set up well, and I felt the biblical references came out of left field.
It did end on a serious cliffhanger which might annoy some, but certainly encouraged me to want to buy the next book.
This was a fast-paced and easy to read fun book. The descriptions were vivid and I felt the author did a good job of setting a sense of place. As a character, Sidney was frustrating as she and her best friend, Chrissy, bought into the female stereotype of letting a man convince her that his hopes and dreams were far more important than her own. Since this is a series, I'm hoping this is part of her character arc as there were moments where she finally asserted herself, but then fell back into the trap when her boyfriend started paying attention to her again. Also, the supernatural elements came in a bit late and weren't set up well, and I felt the biblical references came out of left field.
It did end on a serious cliffhanger which might annoy some, but certainly encouraged me to want to buy the next book.
October 11, 2015
The unusual and surprising premise in ‘Between Dreams’ results in a story that is equal parts occult romance, psychological thriller, and straight-up romance. A young woman, Sidney, who is having relationship difficulties finds her deceased mother’s pendant and starts wearing it. As though an occult link connects Sidney and her mother, her vivid dreams begin. This novel is worth reading even for the last ten pages alone – a surprise cliffhanger doesn’t begin to describe it.
Sidney’s confusion over her future with her fiancé, Ray, pushes the envelope a bit. I couldn’t credit a couple of her decisions. But overall the characters ring true, especially principals such as Ray and Chrissy. The dialogue is distinctive, and resonates even when you disagree with a character's decision.
The psychological element is by far the novel’s strongest. You won’t feel the same about dreams ever again! I'm looking forward to reading the 2nd in The Pendant series.
Sidney’s confusion over her future with her fiancé, Ray, pushes the envelope a bit. I couldn’t credit a couple of her decisions. But overall the characters ring true, especially principals such as Ray and Chrissy. The dialogue is distinctive, and resonates even when you disagree with a character's decision.
The psychological element is by far the novel’s strongest. You won’t feel the same about dreams ever again! I'm looking forward to reading the 2nd in The Pendant series.
April 28, 2015
I was given an ARC of Between Dreams. I had never read anything by Cynthia Austin soil did not know what to expect from this book. I do not post any spoilers in any of my reviews.
When I first started to read this book I thought it was another girl follows musician boyfriend,but BAM it wasn't. It was totally unexpected and something so jaw dropping. I was hooked. I have never read a book with such an awesome twist in a belief that most people share.
I have to say that Cynthia is brilliant. I am so honored that I was picked to read such an awesome book with a cliffhanger that a this moment my mind is working overtime trying to figure out what is going to happen next.
I know I am not saying much but I don't want to spoil ANY part of this amazing book.
I hope that I will be honored once again to read the next book in this series.
Thank you Cynthia for such a brilliant book.
When I first started to read this book I thought it was another girl follows musician boyfriend,but BAM it wasn't. It was totally unexpected and something so jaw dropping. I was hooked. I have never read a book with such an awesome twist in a belief that most people share.
I have to say that Cynthia is brilliant. I am so honored that I was picked to read such an awesome book with a cliffhanger that a this moment my mind is working overtime trying to figure out what is going to happen next.
I know I am not saying much but I don't want to spoil ANY part of this amazing book.
I hope that I will be honored once again to read the next book in this series.
Thank you Cynthia for such a brilliant book.
July 14, 2015
I absolutely love Cynthia Austin and her writing technique in Between Dreams. Her colorful display of description throughout the story and her well-developed characters bring the story to life. I've read a lot of books and by far this is one of the best. I haven't found a book recently that has kept me as interested, or has held me in captivity inside the pages so quickly and completely. I'm really looking forward to reading her next books!
If your looking for a gripping story that holds your interest, without stalling, read this book. You won't be disappointed.
If your looking for a gripping story that holds your interest, without stalling, read this book. You won't be disappointed.
July 1, 2015
3.5 stars
So.....yeah I don't even know what to say or where to start at this point. I'm relatively confused by what I just read. At first I thought it was a story about Sidney and Ray and their love story. Enter in Adrian and my next thought drifted to possible live triangle. But that's not what I was reading. Sidney finds a pendant that belonged to her mother and puts it on, only to start having very vivid dreams.
My mind is starting to wander and think about where the book is going but then I laugh and tell myself there is no way that's the direction the author would take it in.
It's a cliffhanger! Be prepared to want to read this next one just so you can find out if your thoughts were accurate.
Reviewer for FMR Bookgrind
So.....yeah I don't even know what to say or where to start at this point. I'm relatively confused by what I just read. At first I thought it was a story about Sidney and Ray and their love story. Enter in Adrian and my next thought drifted to possible live triangle. But that's not what I was reading. Sidney finds a pendant that belonged to her mother and puts it on, only to start having very vivid dreams.
My mind is starting to wander and think about where the book is going but then I laugh and tell myself there is no way that's the direction the author would take it in.
It's a cliffhanger! Be prepared to want to read this next one just so you can find out if your thoughts were accurate.
Reviewer for FMR Bookgrind
August 2, 2017
Between Dreams isn't like any book you've ever read. As soon as you think you know the story, the unexpected happens in very exciting ways. The plot of this story blows me away, though I won't give away any spoilers, I will say you won't be disappointed. If you want a great book with an amazing plot, plenty of twists to keep your mind alert, and a cliffhanger ending - then you need to pick up this book today.
May 28, 2015
This was a great book. I had no idea what to expect when I started reading it. A roller coaster ride is what I got! At first I thought, Ok, girl, rockstar boyfriend, yeah well.. that is not what I got!
When Sidney discovers a necklace left behind by her deceased mother, her world starts to change and odd things start to happen. Could these oddities possibly be linked to the necklace?
This is part one of a trilogy and should definitely be read in order. And yes, there is a cliffhanger--I am anxiously awaiting part two!
When Sidney discovers a necklace left behind by her deceased mother, her world starts to change and odd things start to happen. Could these oddities possibly be linked to the necklace?
This is part one of a trilogy and should definitely be read in order. And yes, there is a cliffhanger--I am anxiously awaiting part two!
January 28, 2018
This is a tale that seems at first to be leading the reader on an adventure with two high school sweethearts. These two characters seem to be embroiled in a tug of war that is just about conflicting life plans and desires. The plot thickens when it becomes clear that the story is not as simple as one of frustrated lovers sorting out their private problems. It is just possible that what is playing out concerns all of humankind. The cliff hanger ending makes the reader want to know what happens next and suggests a delicious bit of future danger and adventure.
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