Our perceptions create our reality, even when they're wrong. Nobody understands this better than Gavin. Nobody.
To most, he is a shadowy agent of chaos. His motives are questionable, his methods bizarre. But his journey is one of both protection and redemption, and his story is yet untold. Until now. The past and present you think you know are about to change.
And you’ll never see Ruby, Gavin, or their relationship the same way again.
AMBER LYNN NATUSCH is the author of the bestselling Caged series for adults. She was born and raised in Winnipeg, and is still deeply attached to her Canadian roots. She loves to dance and practice Muay Thai―but spends most of her time running a chiropractic practice with her husband, raising two young children, and attempting to write when she can lock herself in the bathroom for ten minutes of peace. Dare You to Lie is her debut YA novel with Tor Teen.
I went into Concealed very curious about whether or not it would offer more detailed info on Gavin (which it did and we’ll get into that in a minute), but I realized when I finished that it’s also the answer to a common problem with a long series coming to an end.
When you read a lot of long series books, as the final book in a series nears, a lot of readers frantically scramble to re-read the second-to-last book as a refresher. What Concealed offered was a complete recap of all the major events in the series from a new, and totally different point of view, accompanied by a LOT of great extra info – including one BOMB of a secret. Like, to the point that I re-read the chapter because I thought I had misunderstood something.
Anyway, this is a great way to prepare readers for the end of a series. It’s a quick read because you’re already familiar with all of the players and events, but it’s also filled with new content so you dont feel like you’re just reading a book report of the series to date. I dont know if accomplishing this was the author’s intention when she wrote Concealed, but you better believe I will be asking her because it’s a great idea and I wish all long-ish series did it this way. lol
As mentioned, Concealed is from Gavin’s POV, and as a reader who has not been quiet about her displeasure with Gavin’s behavior, I walked away with a deep understanding of why he has been so sketchy since his introduction in the series. Do I trust him 100%? I wouldn’t say 100%, but pretty close to it. The truth is finally there for the readers, and, although it’s not always pretty, you cant help but sympathize with him on a level by the end of Concealed.
That brings us to Betrayed, the final installment in the Caged series. Concealed was a solid reminder of everything piled up against Ruby for her coming swan song. I think this novella may have actually made the wait for Betrayed worse rather than easing it. I am greatly looking forward to seeing how the whole series wraps up now because I have no clue how Ruby will dig her way out of the pile of shit. lol
Overall, I loved Concealed. It was yet another fantastic addition to the series. The writing it tight and nothing feels unnecessary. The story flows well and is the perfect mix of rehashing and new information. I wont lie, it doesn’t shine the prettiest light on our boy Sean, but if you’ve read Tarnished, the other Caged series novella, you already know that he cant be a bit of a prick. A bit. lol
Concealed is definitely a book that people are going to be torn on. I personally find the book extremely important in this series. It gives us a different look at how things have gone down and why.
Gavin has always been in the shadows, watching. He is the King of the Fey. He has been around to see it all; many things that would destroy the best of us. He is Ruby's guardian and protector since she was born. Gavin finally gets to explain why he made certain decisions and other things came to be.
I will admit while reading this book, I will totally shocked. I even texted Amber ranting about parts and going "are you effing serious, right now!?!?!" There are times when I wanted to choke him, throttle him but I totally understand why now. But he also gives us some interesting insights into other situations that have plagued us throughout the series.
Amber did a phenomenal job of bringing so much together. There were so many unanswered questions and holes, that things are really starting to make sense. Huge applause to Amber for writing so well. It's always difficult to write scenes from another person's POV and not make it feel repetitive, but Amber nails this. I was completely enthralled by seeing this from Gavin's eyes. It was truly eye opening.
I went into Concealed very curious about whether or not it would offer more detailed info on Gavin (which it did and we’ll get into that in a minute), but I realized when I finished that it’s also the answer to a common problem with a long series coming to an end.
When you read a lot of long series books, as the final book in a series nears, a lot of readers frantically scramble to re-read the second-to-last book as a refresher. What Concealed offered was a complete recap of all the major events in the series from a new, and totally different point of view, accompanied by a LOT of great extra info – including one BOMB of a secret. Like, to the point that I re-read the chapter because I thought I had misunderstood something.
Anyway, this is a great way to prepare readers for the end of a series. It’s a quick read because you’re already familiar with all of the players and events, but it’s also filled with new content so you dont feel like you’re just reading a book report of the series to date. I dont know if accomplishing this was the author’s intention when she wrote Concealed, but you better believe I will be asking her because it’s a great idea and I wish all long-ish series did it this way. lol
As mentioned, Concealed is from Gavin’s POV, and as a reader who has not been quiet about her displeasure with Gavin’s behavior, I walked away with a deep understanding of why he has been so sketchy since his introduction in the series. Do I trust him 100%? I wouldn’t say 100%, but pretty close to it. The truth is finally there for the readers, and, although it’s not always pretty, you cant help but sympathize with him on a level by the end of Concealed.
That brings us to Betrayed, the final installment in the Caged series. Concealed was a solid reminder of everything piled up against Ruby for her coming swan song. I think this novella may have actually made the wait for Betrayed worse rather than easing it. I am greatly looking forward to seeing how the whole series wraps up now because I have no clue how Ruby will dig her way out of the pile of shit. lol
Overall, I loved Concealed. It was yet another fantastic addition to the series. The writing it tight and nothing feels unnecessary. The story flows well and is the perfect mix of rehashing and new information. I wont lie, it doesn’t shine the prettiest light on our boy Sean, but if you’ve read Tarnished, the other Caged series novella, you already know that he cant be a bit of a prick. A bit. lol
Caged, by Amber Lynn Natusch is one of my very favorite paranormal series. It takes the standard werewolf plot line, and amps it up to almost unrecognizable. Yes, this is about a werewolf, but one that is different from just about any of them out there-well, that I know about anyway. I do read a lot of werewolf shifter books, and when one of them is really different, that stays with me. I was lucky to find this series when I first started reading paranormal books again a few years ago, and have waited pretty impatiently for each to be released. There were three released when I started, and those three were read in a few days time. Couldn’t put them down.
Now that there is six books, and one novella, the plot has thickened to about the size of a redwood tree. This one is the second novella, and while short and easily read in an afternoon-I received it and read it all in a couple of hours today-it contains so many answers to so many questions that fans of this series have, and they are going to appreciate every word. Usually a novella is a short story about something not that important to the gist of the series, or a holiday read about the people from a series. Not so, when this author is writing. This novella is a very necessary part of the Caged experience. A must read in the order that the series goes in. Not a stand alone.
Answers. If you read Strayed, then you did get a lot of answers. Personally, I loved Strayed because it did answer so many of my questions-in addition to loving Ruby’s story as well.This is Gavin’s version of the events of the Caged series. Gavin has always been an enigma to Ruby(the main character)always alluding to things, or using veiled innuendos-anything he could do to keep Ruby guessing. In Strayed, we found out what Gavin is to Ruby’s, and really so much more. If I thought Strayed was the answer book, well this one is the answer book with the cherry on top.
Ruby. As a rare werewolf-actually the only one of her kind left alive, she is one of my favorite female characters to read about. She’s got snark for days, and for a long time, had no idea she was supernatural in any way shape or form. She also has an alter personality inside her-her wolf named Scarlet. Now she knows the back story of everything she has been through, the reasons, who she really is, all of it. Her love, Sean, is a son of the god of war, Ares, and has been tasked with destroying the very thing that Ruby is. Not going to happen of course.
So with this installment, Gavin, and all he is, and all his reasons finally come to light. The story behind the story, if you will. I have hated him pretty much since the first book he appeared in, and always wondered what his purpose was, and what he was as far a the supernatural aspect. Now with his story told, we are ready for the last installment, Betrayed, due sometime in 2015. And by the way, I no longer hate him! (RabidReads.com)
Merged review:
Caged, by Amber Lynn Natusch is one of my very favorite paranormal series. It takes the standard werewolf plot line, and amps it up to almost unrecognizable. Yes, this is about a werewolf, but one that is different from just about any of them out there-well, that I know about anyway. I do read a lot of werewolf shifter books, and when one of them is really different, that stays with me. I was lucky to find this series when I first started reading paranormal books again a few years ago, and have waited pretty impatiently for each to be released. There were three released when I started, and those three were read in a few days time. Couldn’t put them down.
Now that there are six books, and one novella, the plot has thickened to about the size of a redwood tree. This one is the second novella, and while short and easily read in an afternoon-I received it and read it all in a couple of hours today-it contains so many answers to so many questions that fans of this series have, and they are going to appreciate every word. Usually a novella is a short story about something not that important to the gist of the series, or a holiday read about the people from a series. Not so, when this author is writing. This novella is a very necessary part of the Caged experience. A must read in the order that the series goes in. Not a stand alone.
Answers. If you read Strayed, then you did get a lot of answers. Personally, I loved Strayed because it did answer so many of my questions-in addition to loving Ruby’s story as well.This is Gavin’s version of the events of the Caged series. Gavin has always been an enigma to Ruby(the main character)always alluding to things, or using veiled innuendos-anything he could do to keep Ruby guessing. In Strayed, we found out what Gavin is to Ruby, and really so much more. If I thought Strayed was the answer book, well this one is the answer book with the cherry on top.
Ruby. As a rare werewolf-actually the only one of her kind left alive, she is one of my favorite female characters to read about. She’s got snark for days, and for a long time, had no idea she was supernatural in any way shape or form. She also has an alter personality inside her-her wolf named Scarlet. Now she knows the back story of everything she has been through, the reasons, who she really is, all of it. Her love, Sean, is a son of the god of war, Ares, and has been tasked with destroying the very thing that Ruby is. Not going to happen of course.
So with this installment, Gavin, and all he is, and all his reasons finally come to light. The story behind the story, if you will. I have hated him pretty much since the first book he appeared in, and always wondered what his purpose was, and what he was as far a the supernatural aspect. Now with his story told, we are ready for the last installment, Betrayed, due sometime in 2015. And by the way, I no longer hate him! I received a copy of this from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review. (RabidReads.com)
This definitely didn't make me like Gavin more. In fact, it did the complete opposite. All I saw was a creepy voyeur lurking around Ruby's life making bad decisions and not helping her in any way. Yes he has information, information that he could have given her if he wasn't so caught up in his righteous ideals. Gavin was the cause of Ruby's abduction. I hate Gavin. I don't even like his name. Rant over. I'm still giving it 3 stars because the writing was good
Another story set from another point of view. Background information is interesting and necessary but I want to find out what is going on in the real story. However this one is definitely worth reading to get the background.
This short novella is Gavin's story of how events were seen from his perspective and the things he did to try to keep Ruby safe. I'm still not sure how I feel about him, but I do like him better than before.
This really helps you get to know and understand the character Gavin. A great but if information!!! Can wait to read the next book in the series. And a huge thanks for being in Kindel Unlimited
Reading from Gavin’s side of the events reminded me of things I had forgotten. Gavin’s perspective gives new light to some of the events that occurred. His love for his niece unending.
This has been an exhausting, emotional roller coaster ride. And, I've enjoyed every minute of it. Only one more book to go. Have not been able to put it down.
The Caged world will forever be one of my absolute favorite worlds, and I decided that a full reread was in order. I may not have started this world from the true beginning, but the whole world is absolutely epic.
Gavin has been less than forthcoming with Ruby on what she needs to know. This novella gives us the history, back from the start & during Ruby’s life. It gives us the other side of the story from the other novella in the series. It gives us so much more information.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review from the author.
She is strong.
She is proven.
And I will follow where she leads.
~Amber Lynn Natusch
Wow! I have chills all over me! Concealed was simply exquisite. I loved each and every moment, as always, of being sucked into Amber Lynn Natusch's Caged series. I can't get enough...it's like a fix I just can't seem to live without!
My name is Sabrina and I'm a Caged series Addict! (P.S. I don't want help.)
Gavin has always been a mystery to us. Throughout the series I've been frustrated, angry, and down right desperate to know what his intention were! Well we finally know and damn is it good! I won't give to much away, but I will say all of our questions are answered!
Amber Lynn Natusch is always a breath of fresh air. Concealed was so creative and detailed. It will leave you wanting for nothing but more more more! I loved the way it was written, like a Memorandum, or a confession. Every juicy detail will surprise you! I had many moments where I stopped and "Oohhh...I get it now!"
Concealed totally blew me away! So different from anything I have ever read, and I must say absolutely enthralling.
I would recommend this book to all lovers of the Paranormal, and if your not pick up the Caged series anyways! You won't be disappointed!
5 Stars
Merged review:
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review from the author.
She is strong.
She is proven.
And I will follow where she leads.
~Amber Lynn Natusch
Wow! I have chills all over me! Concealed was simply exquisite. I loved each and every moment, as always, of being sucked into Amber Lynn Natusch's Caged series. I can't get enough...it's like a fix I just can't seem to live without!
My name is Sabrina and I'm a Caged series Addict! (P.S. I don't want help.)
Gavin has always been a mystery to us. Throughout the series I've been frustrated, angry, and down right desperate to know what his intention were! Well we finally know and damn is it good! I won't give to much away, but I will say all of our questions are answered!
Amber Lynn Natusch is always a breath of fresh air. Concealed was so creative and detailed. It will leave you wanting for nothing but more more more! I loved the way it was written, like a Memorandum, or a confession. Every juicy detail will surprise you! I had many moments where I stopped and "Oohhh...I get it now!"
Concealed totally blew me away! So different from anything I have ever read, and I must say absolutely enthralling.
I would recommend this book to all lovers of the Paranormal, and if your not pick up the Caged series anyways! You won't be disappointed!
If you reading this and you haven’t read the any of the Caged Series yet, you should start now. Concealed is book 6.5 in the Caged Series by Amber Lynn Natusch. Amber Lynn Natusch is a great story teller. Her characters are rich in personality. Every character has a unique voice and contributes in a way to the story that enhances it. They are not filler. ALN writing makes you laugh, and cry, even at the same time! The stories flow flawlessly.
The mysterious Gavin speaks! In Concealed, we get to hear Gavin’s POV. He’s been around for the last several books speaking to Ruby in riddles making her mad (as well as me). In Strayed, we find out more about him. Concealed shows how loyal he is to Ruby, but sometimes his actions are contrary to how normal “people” behave. Gavin has been sitting on a lot of information for awhile now, which I’m sure will blow up in Ruby’s face at some point. Danger always finds Ruby.
One-click this series, you will not be disappointed. If you can, follow Amber Lynn Natusch on FaceBook. She is hilarious.
The books are must be read in the following order: Book 1 - Caged Book 2 - Haunted Book 3 - Framed Book 4 - Scarred Book 5 - Fractured Book 5.5 – Tarnished(novella) Book 6 - Strayed Book 6.5 – Concealed (novella) ALN’s novella are not filler. They are another character’s POV on history or their storyline in the books. They are important to the overall story. So don’t skip them.
I have always love the way Amber writes her books, they are always so full of mystery. They always leave you wondering. But this one has many many answers, I think both novellas in the series are key to understand better the context in the other books. This is one in particularly. I wasn't a fan of Gavin, he was so full of secrets and enigmas that make him seem as one of the enemies. Now that truth has come to light, his secrets are exposed and knowing the side of his story is a must. I got to say that I love Gavin now, seeing his motives and the way circumstances pushed him to be the way he was, was definitely an eye opening. He was not the enemy, he was just acting as a concern parent (although he wasn't) Ruby was all he had left. Now that things have change and the story has taken a spin, things look much brighter but at the same time, I know that everywhere when Ruby is involved, trouble will find them. I can't wait to see how things will develop from here!! The underground is coming and things won't be pretty. Amber being the mastermind she is, just makes me more anxious about Betrayed. This novella is a must read in the series... I absolutely love it.
Not only does CONCEALED let us learn more about Gavin, but it was a great recap of all the events that have taken place in the Caged Series from a different point of view.
It was nice to finally get an in-depth look at Gavin and learn about his motives and thoughts as the many events of the series passed. He was there in the shadows loving Ruby, keeping her safe and hating Sean before we even knew he existed. He answered a lot of the questions that have been in the back of my mind as well as put a few more in there to look forward to in the final book of the series, BETRAYED. I never disliked Gavin, after reading CONCEALED I am no longer indifferent to him and am excited to see what roles he will play moving forward as part of Ruby's team instead of on the sideline.
If you've been following Amber's books since CAGED you can't not read CONCEALED. I was left feeling that it was an important addition to the series and it got me hyped up for what will come next.
* This book was provided free of charge from the author in exchange for an honest review.
During the whole series I always doubted Gavin. I thought he was a flake. He looked sketchy. Always talking in riddles and never getting to the point. He aggravated Ruby. I didn't get why he was against Sean and Ruby's relationship either. This novella sheds some light on just how much Gavin loves his niece and at what lengths he will go to to save her life. They are the only two left of their kind and he would just about do anything to keep her safe. He realizes through everything that Ruby has gone through maybe Sean is not what he always thought he was. Maybe he truly does love Ruby? Super excited to read the next and last book!
Okay so I absolutely loved this book, I didn't think I cared anything else about Gavin, but boy was I wrong, I can see him in a different light now that I've read his story and why he's done what he's done. I always thought of him as an interesting character but more of a thorn in Ruby's side, now it's much clearer and we find out all the reasons why. Thank you Amber Lynn Natusch for another fantastical (probably not a real word) book!
I'm glad this novella was written. It gives us more incite about Gavin that we didn't get in the last book. I think we all viewed him as the enemy because we all want Ruby and Sean together, I do anyway. I didn't like Gavin showing up and putting bad thoughts about Sean in Ruby's head. Very excited to see what happens next.
I have been reading the caged series for a long time now. The hints makes me anticipate the final book. Amber Lynn Bausch did answer some questions in this book that I had wondered from book one. Such as, how can a blind child know how to dance or do art. She hinted at what Scarlett did when she left. The hints were good.
Reread this so I can be ready for the last installment of the Caged series, Betrayed. This is an awesome series and definitely recommend this to anyone who loves to read YA paranormal books. Concealed is all about Gavin, who is for Ruby.
This novella adds another point of view to the story- Gavin's. If you've already read this far into the series, then you should read this story. It does fill in some gaps and somewhat recaps all that has already gone on. It's a good filler until the next book comes out, which isn't soon enough.
3.5 stars. It was good to get some of Gavin's insights, some answers to previously evaded questions, however I felt like it wasn't entirely necessary (hence it being a novella). Honestly it did nothing for me as far as changing my opinions on him or "the dark eyed one."
This is an excellent book, it is just entirely to short. I know, I know, that's the point of a novella. I'm anxiously awaiting the final book in the series!