Professional animal trainer, Carmen Rockwell, is happy living her life on the edge of society. She owns a high profile business that is run by her best friend, Lissy, the only person she thinks she needs in her life. Because of an unusual gift, she is the best in the country at what she does. She goes away for work and finds herself suddenly drawn into a new world- one that she never knew existed and against her will, it follows her home, demanding that she enter into the life she was destined to live. An important date is approaching fast, but will she turn away from this new world and hide or will she face her fate head on? One man could make all the difference- but does he love her or is she only a means to an end?
TITLE: Infinity SERIES: Xandrian Circle Book 1 AUTHOR: Allaina Daniels GENRE: Paranormal Romance RELEASE DATE: August 13, 2015 MY RATING: 4 Stars
Wow...let me start by saying I have to really be in the mood to read a paranormal- sometimes it's just not my thing...that being said, this book blew me away...the writing was excellent! The story was so unique and interesting. I absolutely loved the lore...and there was so much character development! For me, really getting to know the characters are what really draws me in..
Our heroine, Carmen! Loved her! She meets my qualifications of NOT being a 3W's (weak wishy washy female. She was so strong! And Gabriel. Ugh! Gabriel is definitely book boyfriend material!!
This was a great read, easy to get lost in, and difficult to put down..I just HAD to know what was going to happen next, lol...I look forward to the next book in the series...
I didn’t know what to expect going in to this book, but holy freaking wow I am so, soooo glad I read it. I feel like I could be best friends with Carmen her snark, her wit, her over all self. I know she has a bestie already, Lissy but why can’t we make it a 3 besties rule? Seems totally logical to me!!
At first I thought oh shifters yay, bring on the wolves but it’s not that it’s a type of book. It’s the Fae magic and you don’t get to choose what your abilities are. Carmen was raised human and had no idea she was part of this race called Xandrian’s . She knew she was different her ability to telepathically speak to animals, isn’t “normal”. Lissy is human, she and Carmen grew up in the same foster home from the time Carmen was 8.
Getting to know Carmen you see her life before was pretty upsetting, a lot of hurt and anger. But it followed her into adulthood too. So when Gabriel shows up in her dreams, then in real life she does not trust him as far as she can throw him, and boy does she want to throw him. Lmao ..
Lissy is all for Carmen letting a little man candy in to her life but she has to make sure he is worthy of her besty. I love that when Gabriel shows her a little bit of himself, she doesn’t react like you would assume. That’s because Carmen who doesn’t know it yet but she never truly acted human and Lissy just went with the flow, see we are totally besties I would be ok with that too! I swear it.
Carmen is very angry, she uses it as a protection around herself as to not let people in.
“The lamp offended you, and you taught it a lesson.” - Gabriel
Gabriel sticks by her even when she isn’t so nice to him, but he has had many lifetimes of waiting for her. So he will wait for her until she is ready to accept who and what she is.
“I have nine years unbounded. And if it takes you nine years to make up your mind about whether or not you will have me, I can be patient.” – Gabriel
Mostly Carmen is just scared of what is to come. But she has this connection to Gabriel that won’t be ignored.
“In all my life, I have only ever had one person not leave me. One person who hasn’t used me and left me to pick up the pieces on my own.” - Carmen
This was a totally awesome blew me away book!! I can’t wait to read more about these characters and this unique world. Also totally freaking loved that Gabriel calls Carmen Darlin’ just like that darlin’ it’s so unlike any “pet” name I have read in a while. LOVE IT!
Wow! This was my first book by this author and I was so impressed!
Infinity is a fun read with believable characters, an exciting plot, and superb writing throughout.
The main character, Carmen, is well-developed and likable, although I wanted to shake her silly at times. A former animal trainer and foster kid, she turns out to be a reserved adult who wants nothing to do with love. She has her business and her best friend...what more could a girl need?
But as often is the case, her first real chance at love sneaks up on her and doesn't quite fit in with her carefully plotted life plans. Gabriel, a great steamy male character, won't let her push him away. Try as she might, the pair are made for each other even though they seem drastically different.
There's a lot of tension in this book and build-up, which I thoroughly enjoyed. The story was well-paced and easy to read.
I'm excited that this is going to be a series and I look forward to the next!!!!
Great writing and storytelling by Ms. Daniels! This book earns a well-deserved five stars.
When I started this book I was hooked with Allaina’s ability to tell a story, I looked to the bottom of my screen and was shocked to see that I was only 4% in and yet so invested.
I loved every bit of this book, the writing, the story, the romance, the characters (even if I wanted to slap Carmen stupid a couple of times, with love), everything.
Carmen is a professional animal trainer with a special ability which makes her the best in her industry. I loved her attitude, right from the start. She has everything she believes she needs and just simply does not have room in her life for anything else, much less being thrusted into a new world or finding love. But like all great loves, it sneaks up on her and pushes her off her carefully laid plans.
It was such a fun and easy read, exactly what I needed at the moment.
Take a chance on a new author and pick Infinity up.
If you are looking for a different type of romance that is somewhat in the paranormal realm of things, then I highly suggest this book. Ms. Daniels has done an amazing job with this novel and I recommend it to anyone who wants to take a chance on it. Carmen and Gabriel are both very different, but yet they are somewhat the same. They both have abilities though they are different from each other, and Gabriel and his family and friends are all there to help Carmen when things get tough for her. They go through so much and find out so many different things, mainly things about Carmen and her past and her parents. Carmen works with animals as her day to day job and her best friend is also her boss. She has seen Gabriel in her dreams and knows that she is destined to meet him. She doesn't know his name and she doesn’t know when or where she will meet him only that she will. Gabriel has seen her in his dreams and knows that she is his soul mate, but again he doesn't know her name only that they will meet and he knows when she is close to him. As a couple and as a team they work so very well together, helping each other in harmony, which is nice to see in a couple who is working together even if it isn't in the day to day job. Again I love the work Ms. Daniels has done in this book and I absolutely cannot wait to read more from her!
Professional animal trainer Carmen Rockwell, thinks she only needs her friend Lissy and the foster family that raised her. She doesn't think she needs anyone else. "Guys?" She doesn't need a guy. Who could blame her after the previous relationship. However, she goes away for a job and finds herself suddenly drawn into a new world! In walks Gabriel. A sexy, badass of a guy who I would love to get my hands on. Yummy! Sigh. He turns Carmen's life upside down. I wanted to slap Carmen and say, "Come on girl, sexy guy who is sweet and charming. Give it up already!" Yes she has been through a lot, but I still screaming at her. Infinity is such a tease! Oh you get your hot and steamy and trust me, it was worth it when it does come. I was like finally. Finally! This is a must read. I loved this book, it's a fun-easy-read and I cannot wait until the next book. Author Daniels is a wonderful writer, she is witty and charming. I would love it if the author would write about Lissy and Riley. I was really loving Riley's character! Maybe the author will wright about them soon? Five stars!
Growing up human with no knowledge of what you truly are, then finally learning you are something else sntirely, is a shock. That's what happened to Carmen. After being orphaned at 5 y/o, and basically fending for herself, she was able to live by putting a barrier on herself, wrapping herself with anger. The only family she considers is her best friend Lissy, her foster family the Greer's, and Mary her anger management counselor.
Ok enough of the background. I took out a star for a couple of reasons. One is the editing. There are a number of errors, but not to mich that you won't understand what is being said. Formatting is another issue, but not a biggie. But the one I'm a bit concerned eith is Lissy's easy acceptance of what Gabriel is and what Carmen is becoming, and how easily the Doctor was beaten in the end. Maybe there is more to it on the next book, or not. I just felt that it needed more. But that being said, I am looking forward to the next book.
Wowsers! Allaina Daniels is an amazing breakout author. Infinity is filled with everything you could hope for in a novel. Mystery, intrigue, mouth watering sex, comedy & drama.
The characters are well developed and have so much personality. Carmen has grown up living a rough life and keeps her heart sheltered from pain. She relies and the strength and courage of her best friend Lissy. They represent the epitome of friendship. In walks Gabriel all sex on a stick like and turns Carmen's world on it's axis. He has all the answer she needs and is exactly what she wants even if she can't realize it.
I was sucked into the original plot line from the beginning. I was cracking up, biting my nails and cussing the story. The emotion that is drawn out is so worth it. This story has me begging for the next book to be released. Allaina is sure to go far and I can't wait to witness it.
Infinity is about a young lady, Carmen, who has had a tough upbringing. She loves her OCD best friend and business partner, Lissy. Carmen has the ability to talk to animals via telepathy which makes her extremely good at her job as an canine behaviour specialist, although she has no idea where this ability arises from. Lissy runs the business and Carmen does the business! All is well until Carmen comes across a ridiculously attractive guy that she has seen before, in her dreams! Carmen runs for the hills, terrified at this bizarre turn of events but gorgeous Gabriel follows her. Determined to win Carmen’s affections, a battle of wills ensues.
I’ll be honest, I found the first quarter of the book quite hard-going. I just couldn’t get invested in the plot at all and wondered if I’d ever get through the book. However, I stuck with it and I’m really glad I did. Once the momentum of the relationship between Carmen and Gabriel got going, this book was a much easier and enjoyable read. In fact, I couldn’t put it down to the point that I read it way past my bedtime to finish it!
I’m not sure if I found the whole “talks to animals” a bit too Dr Doolittle and just a bit bizarre or if Carmen’s attitude was just a bit too annoying to make her likeable initially, but the more Carmen showed her vulnerabilities, she became a much more endearing character. I found myself championing Gabriel eventually, but not before I wondered why he was bothering. Daniels has written a lovely character in Gabriel and it felt a bit like he was fighting a pointless battle. However, I did come round to the plot eventually and found myself cheering them both on.
Daniels’ writing style is engaging on the whole. As I say, I haven’t really been able to pinpoint why I found the beginning of this book a bit hard work but the narrative is eloquently written, perhaps more so as the book goes on. I preferred Lissy and Gabriel’s characters than Carmen’s. I found her a tad self-absorbed and irritating, but I think that was supposed to be the point, to show how much Carmen had been damaged by her traumatic childhood and the deep distrust she has for anyone other than Lissy and her family. Ultimately, Daniels effectively shows how love can conquer all, even when you try to deny it, and that there are good, honest people in the world, you just have to believe that they are there.
Once Carmen and Gabriel are on the same page, this book flows so much better and gripped me enough to want them to find a happy ever after. I read the last three quarters of the book in two nights. It took me considerably longer to read the first quarter. What I would say is, stick with it. It gets so much better that you will not regret giving this book the benefit of the doubt. It may be a slow burner but by the end of the book it is on fire! I look forward to reading the next instalment!
I'm only giving this 3 stars and not 4 stars because of the editing. *This review does contain some spoilers* This is a great concept, and really interesting. I mostly liked how I couldn't predict what was going to happen. I did, however, not like Carmen. Half the time I wanted to punch her, the other half I wanted to hug her. Gabriel was an angel to put up with all her bs. So Carmen can talk to animals. That is really awesome! She is great at her job! The book starts out with her at a clients house. This could have been elaborated a little more. It's talking about a rich snob owning a German Shepard. When I think rich snob, I think little Chihuahua or something. Then you get to know a little about Carmen, how shes an orphan and she has a fantastic best friend, Lissy. Some of the details of her life were a little too over done. I didn't really need to know the color scheme of her living room, but I did... at least three times. Still, I wanted to know what was happening. So Carmen has these cool dreams that she can altar at will for the most part, and that's how she meets Gabriel. Gabriel is Xandrian. He's part fae, and so is Carmen (though she doesn't know it). They are soul mates. When Carmen first meets Gabriel in real life she freaks out and runs. Kind of stupid to run from that much hotness, but whatever. So Gabriel follows her back to her home (not in a stalker way) and does literally EVERYTHING he can to win her over. This is where I start really disliking Carmen. You get to meet Gabriel's friends and family. They all seem very cool and interesting. So Carmen has another dream and gets to see her dead parents. I thought this was going to be so much more tear jerking, but I was a tad disappointed. After she's thrown back into reality, Carmen goes crazy...like seriously. So I didn't like her even more. If I got to see a long dead relative, I would have been so happy at just the possibility, but Carmen freaks out and has a hissy fit. (She does that a lot). All of a sudden, Carmen is all about Gabriel, and jumping his bones. About time, but it was done so quickly my head kind of hurt. After that, they have Carmen's birthday, she almost kills her best friend, then she is being stalked/hunted down by her half-brother? That threw me for a loop. I would have loved more info on that topic. I feel I didn't get enough of that particular background. All in all, the book is very interesting. I was very disappointed in the editing, and I know it's not the author's fault. There were a lot of editing misses (especially in the last half of the book) that tended to take me away from the story. I will say, it is DEFINITELY worth the read, and I am looking forward to the next one!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I was presented by Allaina Daniels with a copy of Infinity to read and review. This book pulled me completely out of my comfort zone, it was the first book of this genre, Urban Fantasy Romance, that I’ve read and I can say that I liked it. This book is narrated by the author giving it a more personal touch. Carmen and Gabriel are the central characters of this plot. Every chapter that passes, the more we explore their lives, beliefs, we feel that we are part of history which brings us to share their emotions, frustrations, and conflicts. To what extent can we deny love? We can live just focused on our careers and forget about everything else? Infinity explores a topic that is usually not very usual, the existence of a soul mate for each of us. Does that exist? Or it’s a Myth? Why is it that when something terrible happens to us we tend to close ourselves to the world? Why do we refuse the chance to be happy? One thing is certain, in life nothing is guaranteed but love will always be a part of our lifes even if we want to deny it, and this book shows that, it proves that we can find true love in the most bizarre situations. I still do not have an opinion about this book genre so I cannot say that I love, but I can surely say that I do not hate. This book is very interesting and very intense in some chapters and also has some hot scenes in the mix. Overall I liked it and I am wanting to know what happens with the other characters, so Allaina Daniels begin to write the next books as soon as possible, because I do not want to wait too long.
So imagine this, living life normally-well as normally as possible- with a little bit of animal communication thrown in... We can all imagine that right?!? Well that is Carmen's reality! When she takes a job she has no idea that she will meet the one guy to ever make her feel anything. It annoys her that he seemingly holds power over her so she fights it.. Until saving her best friend and him forces her to realize a few things.
Imagine growing up and living the life of a different race than human. Being happy and knowing you'll live far longer than a human.. That's Gabriel's reality. When he stops looking for his soulmate the last thing he expects is for her to walk through his dream... literally. When she refuses his efforts and insists they be friends he has no choice but to go with it. When his life and his soul mates best friend are in danger, he receives a gift from her that he didn't think was possible.
Find out exactly what happens when Carmen's world turns upside down and she learns that everything isn't always what it seems. With more gifts than she ever thought about having she has some decisions to make.
5 beautifully painful stars to Allaina Daniels as she spins a web of beautiful characters with true to their world happenings and just enough heart ache to have you grasping your chest in an effort to keep breathing.
This book was a quick and easy read for me - enjoyable plot, characters and a little romance too! It had a believable air of mystery, a little fantasy, and spunk!
While I did find that it didn't quite meet up to the polished/edited books I'm mostly used to - I was able to look past some of the issues I noticed and really just enjoyed the story. Daniels has a way of telling a story that just kept me wanting to see what happened next.
Carmen is a professional animal trainer who grew up in foster care... she is a bit insecure and really only has a handful of people she knows that she can trust. She's closed off to dating and guys after a bad relationship. After leaving on a business trip, she meets Gabriel.... and he's kind of a badass. The two are like oil and water, but he lights her fire! The dialogue between them was witty and hilarious!
This story was unlike anything I've read before, and I will definitely be picking up the second book in the series.
Growing up human with no knowledge of what you truly are, then finally learning you are something else sntirely, is a shock. That's what happened to Carmen. After being orphaned at 5 y/o, and basically fending for herself, she was able to live by putting a barrier on herself, wrapping herself with anger. The only family she considers is her best friend Lissy, her foster family the Greer's, and Mary her anger management counselor.
Ok enough of the background. I took out a star for a couple of reasons. One is the editing. There are a number of errors, but not to much that you won't understand what is being said. Formatting is another issue, but not a biggie. But the one I'm a bit concerned with is Lissy's easy acceptance of what Gabriel is and what Carmen is becoming, and how easily the Doctor was beaten in the end. Maybe there is more to it on the next book, or not. I just felt that it needed more. But that being said, I am looking forward to the next book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Infinity is one of those books that pull you in, don't let you go and leave you wishing the book were longer.
I don't like leaving what I consider to be in depth, spoiler reviews. I'm the type of reader that rarely reads the back before reading the book for fear of spoilers. That being said...
Read this book! The characters are human and flawed, written perfectly so that you understand why they act the way they do. The world Allaina Daniels paints is magical, in multiple definitions of the word. Infinity flows smoothly and is full of wit, friendship, humor, destiny and love.
I have one bookshelf where books by my favorite authors are put and Infinity has easily earned a spot on that shelf.
If you are looking for a new "world" to explore and you like people with abilities, heart and a bit of sarcasm, read Infinity by Allaina Daniels.
This book is not the typical kind of book that I would read. It took me till about chapter four before it got to the point I could not put down. Very strong characters and some funny spot in the dialoge. Some of the powers the characters had was amazing. There are some parts that just hook you and then you can't put down. The love story and growing up in the foster care system tugged at times. Being very angry about her life is very understanding as you get to know her. I loved that there is no cliff hanger.
I wish some of the background was given sooner in the story so you understood some of the things that were happening. There were a few editorial edit errors in the book. I was able to figure it out.
This review was written for Kylie's Fiction Addiction.
I have to admit right up front that this type of novel is not generally something I would read. However, intrigued as I was at some of the reviews, I dove in and enjoyed it. Great character development, nice chapter lengths, and a wonderful pace. I particularly like the way the author paints the imagery with her words. Took me there, creating place and time, and I had no problem whatsoever picturing in my mind what was going on. Well done Ms. Daniels.
This book was so good, I love how much romance, suspense, paranormal and action were all packed in one great book. Gabriel is my personal favorite, he is very sexy and addicting! The storyline is gripping and had me eager to find out the ending! I love how Carmen is such a loner at times. It is a beautiful journey of a girl haunted by her past an she finds a sexy hunk that is her soulmate an she slowly learns how to be at peace with her past an to fall in love with someone she deserves.
OH MY GOODNESS!! This book is to die for!! You know the type.. That makes you want to put what needs to be done now, can wait? Or to stay up as late as you can to read just a few more pages even though you have to wake up soon? This book made me chuckle out loud... Made me cry.. With words.. Thats right! Words! Beautiful writing! I want to read all her books now! *crawls into a cave* Lol. Thnx for writing! I really enjoyed this book!! <3
I am in love with Author Allaina Daniels and the world she has created in her book, Infinity.
She draws you in and doesn't let you go to the very in. Which in turn means front start to finish, you won't be able to set this book down. Guaranteed. My only wish is that it were longer, I wanted more and more.
This is the first book I've read by this author but it won't be the last.
****I received this author copy in exchange for any honest Review.****
Infinity was a very good read. I loved that Carmen's ability was being able to talk and communicate with animals and is able to understand them and help them. That's something I've always wished I could do. Carmen was hurt once before will she be able to open her heart to someone she barely knows? Will she give in to fate or will she defy her destiny? Read Infinity to find out now. Infinity was an amazing read and I can't wait for book two to come out!
I am so lucky to have had the chance to read this book. I enjoyed this book so much!! The way the author used her words to describe the events taking place was marvelous. I loved the story of Carmen And Gabriele so much. And the Xandrian world is so amazing a full. I can't wait to read book 2. I would highly recommend this book for anyone who loves romance and paranormal abilities.
Spitfire characters, drama, action, romance and the paranormal, now that's just my cup of tea. This story will make you feel every emotion there is. You'll laugh, feel heartbroken for Carmen, get mad and will even have your pulse racing, errr-humm. You'll even catch yourself rolling your eyes at Carmen's stubbornness. A well written story and I can't wait for the next book. I didn't want the book to end. Thank you for the great read.
For those who are fans of romance, but complain they don't get the sexy with fuller, in-depth, character development, I would veer then to Ms. Daniels' debut novel. And I always offer extra points for books not easily categorized - is this YA/NA? Fantasy? Romantic suspense?
The good ones always defy being pigeonholed - as Daniels proves here. Worth the time and definitely a twisty ride!
Loved how fast this book pulls you in. I really enjoyed how fae get honey drunk! Such a cute idea! Gabriel is a total babe and a fictional heart throb! I can't wait for the next one! Carmen is a firecracker and doesn't take shit from anyone. Really enjoyed!
I was truly in a book slump and the characters Gabriel and Carmen came into my life !! Their love was a slow burn and their merry band of friends and family had me laughing non stop....can't wait to hear Riley's story one day..fingers crossed!
Ahh the tension build up was awesome I love that in a book. I won this beautiful paperback couldn't wait to dive in. Such a interesting story and very well written. Can't wait for the next one. Absolutely held my attention. Unique story and great characters. Loved Carmen. 5 star book.
Now here is a writer who knows how to make their characters and story lines pull you into the story so that you forget that you are reading. Loved this. A new writer for me, but one I intend to follow.