Persecution

Dyphillum #1

by Elizabeth Montgomery

They were exiled from their clan. Made to leave the only home they ever knew. They knew the curse would kill them if they didn’t leave. Isaac erased her memories to give her a better life. SHE HAS TO COME BACK. SHE IS THE CHOSEN ONE. Only Cecily can defeat the hunters. Isaac swore his heart to protect her. Julian swore his life to protect her. But in the end will it be Isaac and Julian that needs saving?

Genres: Paranormal, Romance, Paranormal Romance, Novella

112 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 4, 2014

About the author

Elizabeth Montgomery was born in Williamsburg, Va and raised in Yorktown, Va. Growing up in and around the historic triangle spurred her love for the unusual and paranormal. She is a mom to four amazing kids, a wife to an extraordinary husband and a full-time pediatric nurse. When not writing, working or helping with homework you can find Elizabeth with her nose stuck in a book or hovering around her Keurig waiting for that next cup. She is the author of the best-selling Dyphillum Series, an Upper YA paranormal series, and her latest release Scarred that hit #1 Hot New Release on Amazon for her category. A portion of all proceeds for Scarred are donated to an antibullying foundation.

Reviews

[Mercedes Roth · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've already read this book because I was lucky enough to edit it:) yes, you can all hate me
Okay, so this wonderful book is short & fun.
The main character, Cecily, is spunky, fun & absolutely wonderful! She's strong, brave & definitely a great main character.
Her counter part, Isaac, is sweet, caring & sometimes funny. He would do anything for Cecily, loves his family (even his evil brother) & is just a great guy. (Totally crush worthy)
Isaac's older brother, Julian, is my definition of an amazing wet dream, lol. He's a total bad boy (with a small amount of good) he's loyal, trustworthy, and bossy.
This book has romance, action, suspense & is really funny sometimes.
This book starts with action & just doesn't stop till the very end. You'll lose sleep staying up to read it, I promise! I just finished it & I can not wait for the sequel!
While you will have questions after, it just adds to the anticipation of the sequel.
I truly loved editing & reading this novel & highly recommend it. I promise you won't be disappointed!

[Erica · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to be able to read Persecution! All I can say is WOW!!! What a debut for E. Montgomery! This was a short, fun, action packed, intriguing read! From start to finish I just could not put it down. yea it was short, but you know how you always have distractions no matter what. Nope I wasn't having it. I put everyone and everything on the back burner until I finished reading! I just could not get enough of Isaac and Julian. I want to say so much more, but if I do that then that'll make for spoilers and I hate spoilers so I can't do that. But I was sitting there talking to my iPad, No you can't trust him, OMG I knew you couldn't trust him... O WAIT what just happened??

There isn't really much more I can rave about this. This goes to speak for itself, the second I finished this book; I started stalking the author. Ok not really, that's why we have social media, it isn't stalking right? Just cause I follow her on Facebook, and blog, and goodreads, and twitter, and anywhere else she pops up, I will be there! Totally not stalking! And so what if I am private messaging her begging to have book 2 out already! I have to know what happens! Hopefully I get lucky enough to read that one while in progress also! Ya know, not to rub it in that I got it before you or anything! I am just dying to read more!!! Yes I totally recommend this book.

I usually a not one for shorts much, but this one caught my attention! So I guarantee you will love it too!!
5 out of 5 action packed stars!
Erica - The Book Nuts

[Steph · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5-3 stars

Pro: originality factor ~ dyphillum (1/2 vamp, 1/2 witch)
Con: terrible editing job ~ missing spaces, tense issues, rushed story & relationships

I'm considering it a serial versus series because it was so short and open-ended. Parts had a YA feel, but there is sex and drinking, so I'm guessing that wasn't the author's intention.

Sad. Interesting concept, poor execution, which surprised me after spotting mostly 4-5 star reviews.

[Angela Cruz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is paranormal romance short story. The first book of E Montgomery's, you will not be disappointed. Book one in the Dyphillum Series, and I can not wait to read the whole series. I would recommend this to anyone whom loves paranormal. I really enjoyed the way Cecily thought everything over in her head. And I love the dedication the brothers had toward each other and Cecily. Not to mention how much Issac loved Cecily, he loves her so much he was willing to have her forget him to keep her safe.


This is the story about Cecily, a girl with enough problems to handle without well...what was fixing to be dropped into her lap. She was on her way out of town when she bumps into Issac, someone she doesn't know, or does she? Issac tries to help her to remember, only to have a lot of explaining to do. Will she get all of her memories back, what will she never recover? What had Issac done, he would do anything to protect her, she owned his heart. Julian will give his life to protect her, but in the end is she the one whom will save them all, please remember everything.





Favorite passages:

"She could feel the warmth of his breath across her face as he moved down to her lips and then kissed her like she was his lifeline. "
" ... they were convinced I had the devil in me."
"Hes as harmless as a dove."
"The beast of a man appeared at my side."
"She attempted to scoot past me and it felt as if my non beating heart fluttered as she brushed up against me."
"I 'spose you want me to pump your gas for you too since you're so high up on the horse you must'a rode in on."
"I air kissed through the phone"
"No emotion combined with silence in a woman was one of the only things in this world I was scared of."
"How do you ask a woman if she loves you without sounding like a pansy?"
"I always have, I just didn't know it was you that I loved."
"It doesn't work like that, C, He may be a pompous a** (some might find the author's word choice offending) but he is still my brother."
"I kissed my thumb and put it to her lips."

[Tammy ~Witching Hour Reads~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

So let me just start by saying I love, love this book, everything about it the concept was awesome, I love witches, my second favourite is vamps, so a book about witch vampire hybrids called Dyphillums I'm so in!
Elizabeth Montgomery weaves a story where you feel like you are right there, her characters are beautifully written. Cecily was refreshing, she was not a damsel in distress, she seemed like the girl next door, Isaac was fun I love how he wanted to, no needed to protect Cecily.
I loved watching the bond that Cecily & Isaac have flourish. I want more of these two.
Persecution is chalk full of adventure, magic, danger, betrayal, plot twists, & love. This is a must read! I can't wait to read Damnation!

I received this book from the author for an honest review.

[Casha · Rating 4 out of 5]

What can I say this book had me hooked from the very beginning!!! I thought the story was very original and I enjoyed the action scenes. Cecily was full of spunk and a bad ass once she got her memory back. Isaac is very swoon worthy and a total sweet heart. This book is defiantly worth the read and I cant wait until book 2.

[Amanda Vinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first time reading E. Montgomery. I enjoyed Persecution although it did start out a little weird for me. However, I'm glad I kept reading! Can't wait for part 2!

[Mary Bernsen · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have to admit: the cover is what drew me to this one. Isn't it amazing?? After reading the synopsis, I was dead set on reading it. It's a short story, part one to a series as I understand. The premise is unique and fresh. The narration style is definitely unique to the author and stays consistent throughout. The romance between Cecily and Isaac is one that tugs at the heart strings—lovers separated by hundreds of years, one remembering everything while having to watch the other recall nothing at all. Though, once Isaac explains things to Cecily I feel like she accepted his claim way too easily. I don't know about you, but if someone kidnapped me and started telling me that we were soul mates, and that I had lived countless lives filled with false memories he implanted...I'd be getting the hell out of dodge, not strolling into his pad. I had a difficult time getting into the story because I couldn't really relate to any of the characters except Isaac—he was fleshed out remarkably well, while the others were left lacking. Cecily was too trusting and unnecessarily emotional. Julian was a jerk from the get-go. And Isaacs sister, well she was only in one chapter but I have her labeled as an over-reactive psycho. Overall, it's a good, light read with a few issues

[Cathrina Constantine · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author, Elizabeth Montgomery has written an action packed, fast paced story that I thoroughly enjoyed. The book begins 500 years ago and the reader is instantly in the thick of action with Cecily and Isaac. The hybrid vampires, are on the run, being persecuted by the Elders. At this point, we don't know why, and I'm not going to tell you. Then we find ourselves in present time and Cecily seems like a normal teenager, until she meets her past, Isaac.

Ms. Montgomery keeps us on our toes as we quickly swipe the pages to read more. If you like fantasy driven books, then I recommend Persecution.

My only disappointment came when I reached the end of this book. I'm looking forward to Elizabeth Montgomery's next book, Damnation!

[lovestoread · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow! Such an awesome read. Can you imagine having a feeling that you are missing something...a piece of you is? Ceci has been hidden from the Hunters for years. Feeling like she's being watched/followed, uncertain who she can talk to because she has nothing definite to report. She encounters a man who really strikes her interest only to find he's the one who has been hiding her. Mad? You betcha! The fireworks are amazing. You have to read this book. I am so anxious for the next!

[Books&Dreams · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Book Worms Review by Leigh

Cecily can’t remember her life before her tragic accident, and her parents are trying to convince her that she isn’t normal and will never fit in with society. So, she packs up her car and is heading to her best friend’s house. After seeing her gaslight come on, she makes a stop at a gas station that will change her life that she knows into nothing but a lie.
Isaac knows he shouldn’t interfere with Cecily’s life right now, but he can’t seem to stop himself when he sees her entering the gas station. He goes to talk to her and follows her as she leaves. She just had to get herself into trouble at the rest stop. He knows that he has to tell her everything and keep her with him. There’s no problem with being back together on his side, but will she feel the same?
Isaac and his brother work together to try to keep Cecily safe and inform her of her past. Cecily will learn secrets from her past and things that will change her future.

I give this book 3.5 out of 5 stars.

I am pretty sure that this series will grow on me and get better as it goes. I love this kind of supernatural fiction. This first book gives me an introduction to the characters and a hint as of what is to come. I just wish I could have gotten a little more of the story in this first book.
Now let’s talk about the characters. I LOVE Isaac and Cecily. I can’t wait to see how their relationship evolves in the future. Will it be as good as in the past? It did get pretty steamy for a minute, but I am wanting to see how hot it can get when their bond gets stronger as Isaac said it was before.
Like I said, I love where this story is going, I just wish that I could have gotten more within the first book. I needed it to be a little longer just to get some more meat into the story. I can’t wait to continue this story and see what else this wonderful author has to offer!

[Crystal Melloh · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Dyphillium are a rare supernatural breed: half vampire, half witch. Isaac and Cecily are centuries old and because of an ancient document are forced from their home along with others of their kind. As Cecily tries to lead the group to the safety of the forest, they are ambushed. The others captured and Cecily left for dead. Once Isaac finds Cecily he is forced to make a decision, keep her with him, or help hide her from the Elders. Isaac decides hiding Cecily is the safest option so he wipes all of Cecily's memories and plants new ones. He keeps this up, every 10 years, until she is in danger no matter where he hides her. Isaac takes Cecily home and explains everything, hoping she will remember. With the gentleness of a kiss, Cecily is thrown back into the Dyphillium world. Isaac thinks Cecily is safe until his older brother Jules shows up with a letter from Cecily's mother. Things are not what they seem and the trio must head to New Orleans for Jules' safe house. There, they find out they are anything but safe. Dark hooded figures spring up everywhere and Cecily is becoming more powerful. But as the last female Dyphillium capable of breeding, what do the dark hooded figures really want with Cecily?

Persecution is a real quick read. The story begins with the Elders forcing Isaac and Cecily out of the clan without any reason except a mention of a centuries old document. The story moves very quickly and in some places, a little too quickly. Even though I would have like more character building and back story, I can't wait for the next book.

[Andrew · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wanted to like this book, and I'm happy to say that I did.
I wanted to love this book – and I have to settle for liking it.

Why? For starters, I have high standards for “love”. “Like” is pretty easy, but “love” is tough – the book has to be free of typos and spelling/punctuation errors. (Check). Either not drop a cliffhanger on us (or at least warn us up front that it's coming) OR have conclusion to at least part of the story if it's going to leave the rest to a future work. (Check). The dialog has to feel “right” / be believable. (Check.) It has to have likeable characters (check) and the characters, plot, some scene(s), or a message, or a few quotes, or … have to be so powerful as to stay with me as I move on and read other books. (uh … semi-check. Two weeks later, and the impression is not indelible, but it IS still with me.)

I think the reasons this fell just short of “love” had to do with the number of times I hit a “huh?” point in the plot … something I couldn't figure out where out of left field THAT came from! Perhaps future books in the series will explain things, but I've never been a fan of series in which I HAVE to buy future books. WANT to, yes – but if the plot in each edition doesn't totally stand alone, I find myself disappointed.

This is the first in a series – I suspect (hope? expect?) some to all of my questions will be resolved in future sequels.

RATING: 3 stars

[Casia Pickering · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book from the author for an honest review.

Persecution is a paranormal romance for the New Adult audience. It centers on the life of a young woman and her importance to a race of people. The race are hybrids of witches and vampires. They are powerful, fast, but don't feed on blood often. They are known as the Dyphillum.

The first thing I want to point out with this book is its length. It is eighty-six pages long. With the writing style, it feels shorter than that. I was gripped in the prologue, but the rest of the book needed help.

I personally feel that the book is unfinished. I wanted more detail. I wanted to experience what was going on. The last chapter did that that, but I wanted the rest of the book to reflect that. The two different point of views felt a bit confusing too. I wanted to understand Cecily better, but I couldn't get into her with every other chapter being Isaac. Even though he had the same situation, he was easier to understand in motives.

I would love to see the book rewritten with more detail. I wouldn't say no to the sequel either. I did preview a sample of it and it looks like there is a bit more detail than this book.

[Patrick Hodges · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cecily is the last Dyphillum - half-vampire, half-witch - with the capability to breed, and as such, she is the hottest commodity there is. Hunted by mysterious forces, she has only the handsome Isaac and his brother Julian to protect her, which up till now has consisted of Isaac wiping all memory of her past and her heritage from her brain in order to keep her safe. That is, until now.

Cecily no sooner gets her memory back when she is beset by the dark forces intent on taking her for their own nefarious purposes. The term "out of the frying pan and into the fire" definitely comes to mind.

I really enjoyed this book. It was very short, and I was able to finish it quickly, as it moved along at a lightning-fast pace and there was plenty of action and "adult humor" in it. It was certainly enough for me to want to continue the series. However, if I'm being honest, there were times when I wish there could have been more to the story - more character development, more background, more than just barreling toward the finish line. I do enjoy quick reads, but not at the expense of quality, and as good as it was, I think it could have been even better with more explanation. I barely had time to get invested in the characters before I turned the last page.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Persecution is a little different from what I would normally read but I'm so glad I did. This is an awesome story that has everything you could possibly want: fast paced plot, characters that come to life on the page, lots of action, romance and they all weave together seamlessly.

There are few books that at the end, leave you screaming wanting more, but this is one of them!! This is part of a series so don't expect a HEA at the end and I'm ok with this because I want to read more from this author and I want to read more about these characters.

A paranormal book of the first class. It's dialogue is witty and natural. It's story flows smoothly and the characters just work. And for those of you new to the genre it is easy to slip into their world different entities.

Cecily and Isaac have been separated for hundreds of years. Something wants to destroy them. Isaac has been protecting and keeping his distance from Cecily, while she has no idea who he is. A chance meeting brings them back together and all hell breaks loose.

I would say that this has to be one of this year's must reads! Must have more!!

[The Color of Ink · Rating 5 out of 5]

They were exiled from their clan and in order to escape a curse that would kill them they ran. Realizing the danger Cecily would be in Isaac swore to keep her out of harm’s way. He erased her memories and moved her around to keep her safe. Now she is in more danger than before. Her memories come back and she now not only has one, but two protectors as Julian also swore to keep her safe as well. When the enemy closes in you will find out if Cecily really needs protecting.

The characters and story started of decently, but turned into great. You slowly feel the connection between the characters and by the end are left wanting more. Cecily is strong headed, sassy, and alert. Isaac is caring and protective. Julian is sharp, strong, and snarky. I can’t wait to see where the story takes these characters.

This was a shorter read that leaves you waiting for the next installment; however this is definitely a recommended series to dive into. It has action, attraction, and draws you in. This great debut read by author E. Montgomery has a little bit of everything. So I will be one of the many who gladly waits for the next in the series.

[Kelly Smith Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Vampire-witch hybrids. I've read books about those, but .ever quite like Persecution.
The title is pretty much the plot: Cecily has to escape persecution from...what? That's what I want to mention first in this review. You think you know who's hunting her, but there's a pretty big twist that even I didn't see coming! Mrs. Montgomery has a vivid imagination and great skill.
The characters are each fun. Oddly enough, I found Cecily, the lead, to be the most flat out of all of them. Issac is protective and kind, and will probably be your next book boyfriend. Isobel is not around as much, but even she's got a lot of spunk. Julian...now there is a character I want to see more of! He is by far my favorite with his snarky attitude.
The plot was extremely fast-paced, and I think I read this in an hour. It kept you reading page after page, never slowing down.
My only complaint would be a slight lack of detail. The emotional moments go by too quickly and I'd like to have had more of the background detailed when Isaac explains it to Cecily. It's so interesting I don't think I could get enough of the fantastical elements.

[SheReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one was a take on the normal paranormal world that I haven't seen before. Vampire-witch hybrids that live forever. As soon as they step outside the village, and out from under the protection of a powerful spell, they are no longer safe from those who's mission it is to kill them. The hunters.

Exiled from that village, Cecily is now a prime target of the hunters. The love of her life, Isaac must do the only thing he can to protect her. But what is the cost? Can you really live if all the memories you think you have aren't real? If your supposed friends and family are lying to you? If you can't even remember the man you love?

When Cecily meets a strange man at a gas station, feeling a strange attraction to him, her false life begins to fall away. It isn't long before she remembers who she is and just how much danger she is in. But, only she can save the day.

I enjoyed this story and will definitely go on to read the next one. It's worth giving it a shot if you want a book that isn't just your run of the mill vampire tale.

[Shasta Mosley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was uncertain of what I was getting myself into when I started Persecution by Elizabeth Montgomery, but let me just say that I am so glad that I read this book. It captured me from the beginning and would not turn me loose. The book is a paranormal short read, but although it is a short read it makes you crave going on to the next book, because you have to know what happens next.

There are things that Cecily thinks she knows about her life that are not true. But when she is fed up with her parents and decides to leave home, only then will she find out the truth about herself and her life. Only it is not what she thought and when her memories do resurface now she knows she is in the fight of her life.

With Persecution, the author gives you some great characters with Cecily, Isaac, and Julian. There are twist that make this a great fun, fast, and intriguing read. The author gives new meaning to vampires and witches.

[Nicola · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. I absolutely loved it. I really loved the fact it was different to any other paranormal book I have read before, this book is totally unique. This is only a short story but it had me captivated from the start. It's very fast paced, not a dull moment. Full of action and excitement. The characters are great very likeable and interesting. Isscac is one HOTT guy, he's very caring and protective. Julian Is arrogant but likable, I found myself warming to him throughout the book. Cecily is one strong, awesome chick and I liked her instantly. I can't wait for the next book so I can read more about these characters and see were the journey leads.them next. I highly recommend this book to all paranormal fans. I rate this book 5 stars.

[Jennifer Moody · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book for my honest review from the author.

You could not tell this was the authors first book because it was amazing. Rather she had an awesome editor or the fact that herself came up with this story is unbelievable.
The main character Cecily is weird corky, weird and down right amazing if you think about it. Then there was her other half if you will Issac, who is a part of Cecily's past but she doesn't know that and he tries to help her remember who he is and who she is. Then there is Julian who you can just tell is all kinds of yummy. You just want to jump through the book and lick him. lol Although, this book is only 65 pages it was full of emotion and fun. I recommend this book to anyone teenager and older.

[Hooked On Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cecily is a dyphillum - half vampire and half witch, she has no memory since her car accident. She has her car all packed up to leave town, when she stops at a service station and meets Isaac ... everything changes.

This is a short and gripping book, I really enjoyed this unique supernatural read and I was drawn in right from the beginning - I felt it was different from the usual 'vampire' books I've read and the characters were great. It was action packed with never a dull moment making this a really exciting read however, I felt this book could've been a bit longer in places and it was just that little bit too short. I was really surprised to learn that this is Elizabeth Montgomery's debut novel.

I am so looking forward to reading the next book.

[Sarah Pepper · Rating 5 out of 5]

I actually loved the fact that this book was such a short read. dont get me wrong, I love deep, interacted reads, but I absolutely enjoyed this shortie just as much if not more because of the lenght. I love books but my schedule doesn't always allow me to curl up to a good book and read for an entire weekend.

It was my first to read by this author but not my last. it had everything I was looking for in a book without being over the top or unbelievable: love hate passion fighting betrayal mystery and of course a sexy but not perfect man-ish. well to be fair he's not really a man but rather a vamp witch of sorts.
overall it was very entertaining and gave me some much needed time out of my own head. I was impressed!

[Yaritza · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome Paranormal with a kick of Romance. Really enjoyed the way this story started. I was heart broken to see Isaac so sad since he had to protect Cecily while having to lose her at the same time. It takes great courage to do what Isaac did to his soul mate. I loved the action in this book. I love it when the girl is the main character and gets to kick some bad guys butts. As you read you go through so much emotion from love, hate, betrayal, defense, protection. I could only imagine how hot Isaac really is. I could run into his chest anytime he want's lol. It's a very short book with another book in continuation. Cecily is the only one left from the Dyphillum left that is able to breed. Another clan is trying to capture her in order to mix breeds I guess for ultimate power.

[Arlene Mullen · Rating 5 out of 5]

First I just have to say I loved this book. Cecily is so awesome.The story moved at a good pace and made sure to keep you interesting. I picked up the book and couldn't put it down until the end. I was sad when it was over and excited for the next book.
So Isaac erased Cecily memories so that she would be safe from whoever is trying to hurt her. She finally gets her memories back after Isaac takes her to safety but its hard to forgive and forget after 500 years of lies. Then in comes Julian with a note from her mother.
You definitely need to read this book!
I recieved this book in return for an honest review. My opinions are my own

[Denette Garcia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bewitching Tale

Cecily and Isaac are two of many Delphinium, a half-witch and half-vampire clan, banished from their home only to be ambushed while fleeing. Forced to protect Cecily, Isaac erases her memory and implants a whole new false life without him or their clan. Hiding from her as well, only ever watching to keep her safe. When she is found and gets her full memory back, Isaac and his older brother Julian try to protect her from the evil hunting her.
This high-speed paranormal short is crammed with action, suspense and romance that will not allow you to put it down. This is a marvelously bewitching tale that will have you moving like lightning to get the sequel!

[Kristin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cecily and Isaac were exiled from their clan. Isaac erases Cecily's memories to give her a better life and a chance to survice those hunting her becuase only Cecily can defeat them. Isaac swore his heart to protect her and his brother, Julian, also swore his life to protect Cecily.

The pace of the story is really fast, for me almost too fast. The love between Cecily and Isaac is almost not believeable, there isn't much of scene description and left to the readers' imagination. This isn't a bad thing though. Sometimes I feel that books are too descriptive. I did enjoy the dual point of view and the author does a nice job writing the same scene from a male and female perspective.

[Tina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was sad when this story ended. Elizabeth Montgomery's writing flows beautifully and the story keeps you entertained from start to finish. This is not your typical vampire paranormal read it's more! I love how strong the bond between the main characters Cecily and Isaac are, them being able to talk to each other telepathically and how the story progresses with the relationships and story line. It definitely leaves you wanting more. I definitely think Julian Isaac's brother is swoon worthy. This is a wonderful debut novel from Elizabeth Montgomery and it won't disappoint.

[Desiree · Rating 4 out of 5]

My 3.5 Star Review

This was awesome! E. Montgomery really blew it away with a brand new look on old realm of paranormal for me!

This short and fast paced read was fun from the beginning to the end. I loved the characters and the story line. This book was definitely full of action and emotion. If I had anything to complain about at all it would be that it ended way to soon. I will definitely be on the look out for the continuation of this story!