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Loreena's Gift
Loreena Picket may be blind, but she's a dutiful niece and talented pianist for her uncle's congregation...but they're both hiding a terrible secret. Loreena can kill people with the touch of her hand.
While her uncle sees her as an angel of mercy, helping usher the terminally ill members of his flock into the afterlife, Loreena has her doubts. The true nature of her talent will be tested and will force her to consider how far she is willing to go...
While her uncle sees her as an angel of mercy, helping usher the terminally ill members of his flock into the afterlife, Loreena has her doubts. The true nature of her talent will be tested and will force her to consider how far she is willing to go...
350 pages, Paperback
Published April 12, 2016
1 person is currently reading
325 people want to read
About the author
Colleen M. Story
10 books208 followersColleen M. Story is a novelist, freelance writer, and speaker who loves animals, music, and the great Pacific Northwest.
"The Curse of King Midas," her newest novel, was recognized as a top-ten finalist for the Claymore Award prior to publication. Her previous novels include "The Beached Ones" and "Loreena’s Gift," which was a Foreword Reviews’ INDIES Book of the Year Awards winner.
Colleen has written three books to help writers succeed. "Your Writing Matters" was a bronze medal winner in the Reader Views Literary Awards (2022).
Her previous release, "Writer Get Noticed!," was a gold-medal winner in the Reader’s Favorite Book Awards and a first-place winner in the Reader Views Literary Awards. "Overwhelmed Writer Rescue" was named Book by Book Publicity’s Best Writing/Publishing Book in 2018 and was an Amazon best seller.
With over 20 years as a professional in the creative industry, Colleen has authored thousands of articles for publications like “Healthline” and “Women’s Health;” worked with high-profile clients like Gerber Baby Products and Kellogg’s; and ghostwritten books on back pain, nutrition, and cancer recovery. She continues to work as a full-time freelance writer, helping clients create informative and inspiring communications in a variety of media formats.
Colleen frequently serves as a workshop leader, and motivational speaker, where she helps attendees remove mental and emotional blocks and tap into their unique creative powers. Find more at her author website (colleenmstory.com) and motivational website (writingandwellness.com), or connect with her on Twitter (@colleen_m_story), LinkedIn, and YouTube (@ColleenMStoryteller).
"The Curse of King Midas," her newest novel, was recognized as a top-ten finalist for the Claymore Award prior to publication. Her previous novels include "The Beached Ones" and "Loreena’s Gift," which was a Foreword Reviews’ INDIES Book of the Year Awards winner.
Colleen has written three books to help writers succeed. "Your Writing Matters" was a bronze medal winner in the Reader Views Literary Awards (2022).
Her previous release, "Writer Get Noticed!," was a gold-medal winner in the Reader’s Favorite Book Awards and a first-place winner in the Reader Views Literary Awards. "Overwhelmed Writer Rescue" was named Book by Book Publicity’s Best Writing/Publishing Book in 2018 and was an Amazon best seller.
With over 20 years as a professional in the creative industry, Colleen has authored thousands of articles for publications like “Healthline” and “Women’s Health;” worked with high-profile clients like Gerber Baby Products and Kellogg’s; and ghostwritten books on back pain, nutrition, and cancer recovery. She continues to work as a full-time freelance writer, helping clients create informative and inspiring communications in a variety of media formats.
Colleen frequently serves as a workshop leader, and motivational speaker, where she helps attendees remove mental and emotional blocks and tap into their unique creative powers. Find more at her author website (colleenmstory.com) and motivational website (writingandwellness.com), or connect with her on Twitter (@colleen_m_story), LinkedIn, and YouTube (@ColleenMStoryteller).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
November 14, 2016
This is one of those books where the blurb made it seem decidedly different and interesting - I just couldn’t resist asking to participate in the blog tour promoting it and reading it for myself. This is my honest review.
I was right. This is a unique take on paranormal powers with the strong, blind, leading lady, Loreena Picket, having the ability to kill people just by touching them. Her uncle is the reverend and looks on this as a gift which she can use to help as a form of very caring euthanasia but Loreena isn’t quite so sure, though she appreciates being able to see whilst she does so. When her older brother returns, saving him draws her into a dark underworld where she has decisions to make that will have far reaching consequences, especially regarding how she uses her 'gift'.
This is a well written, enthralling story with well developed characters who grow as the story progresses. The scenarios are vividly expressed, the imagery bringing them to life in the reader’s imagination. As the blurb says, it really is “ a thought-provoking meditation on life and death and what ultimately lies beyond this world.” It makes you wonder just how you would react given similar circumstances and is a suspense filled read which I have no hesitation in highly recommending.
I was right. This is a unique take on paranormal powers with the strong, blind, leading lady, Loreena Picket, having the ability to kill people just by touching them. Her uncle is the reverend and looks on this as a gift which she can use to help as a form of very caring euthanasia but Loreena isn’t quite so sure, though she appreciates being able to see whilst she does so. When her older brother returns, saving him draws her into a dark underworld where she has decisions to make that will have far reaching consequences, especially regarding how she uses her 'gift'.
This is a well written, enthralling story with well developed characters who grow as the story progresses. The scenarios are vividly expressed, the imagery bringing them to life in the reader’s imagination. As the blurb says, it really is “ a thought-provoking meditation on life and death and what ultimately lies beyond this world.” It makes you wonder just how you would react given similar circumstances and is a suspense filled read which I have no hesitation in highly recommending.
July 25, 2016
When I was invited to join this blog tour, I thought it sounded like an interesting book. Wow, was it ever interesting! I read this 350 page book in two days. This was a book that did not disappoint and was very hard to put down.
If this is a debut novel for the author, I look very forward to more of her writings! It was fast paced, exciting, suspenseful, emotional at times, and had a very unusual plot.
The main character, Loreena, is blind and has a special gift. I grew so attached to her as she grew. She was a very strong person. The author gave well developed backgrounds on the characters. Her descriptions of what was happening was like watching a movie in my mind.
I honestly loved this book and highly recommend it if you are looking for a story with suspense and magical realism!
* I was given a copy of this book to read as part of a blog tour. This review is my honest opinion.
If this is a debut novel for the author, I look very forward to more of her writings! It was fast paced, exciting, suspenseful, emotional at times, and had a very unusual plot.
The main character, Loreena, is blind and has a special gift. I grew so attached to her as she grew. She was a very strong person. The author gave well developed backgrounds on the characters. Her descriptions of what was happening was like watching a movie in my mind.
I honestly loved this book and highly recommend it if you are looking for a story with suspense and magical realism!
* I was given a copy of this book to read as part of a blog tour. This review is my honest opinion.
August 4, 2016
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
When I saw the blog tour, I was interested in the book because of the blurb. The book cover didn't appeal to me that much at the beginning but as the story progressed, the picture made sense.
The beginning was intriguing with the way the author introduced the characters one after the other. First the protagonist, Loreena is introduced. She is a very strong character in the book. She doesn't bend to the circumstances but the situation adapts to her. Though she is blind, she sees clearly than others. In addition to her, all the other characters inclusive of Saul and her uncle are all well developed. The author has made the story equally based on the characters and the story.
The tale didn't let up even for one second. I quite enjoyed the book and the supernatural story had me in its grasp and I was turning the pages fast to know the upcoming scenes.The dialogue was very natural and none of the interactions were forced. All were in sync. It 's a very good author who can blend many traits and give an excellent story. This book has all ingredients to make an excellent and entertaining read - emotions, love, thrill and danger.
The way the author has featured the afterlife left me thoughtful on my life. This is one thought provoking novel in some aspects.
The ending had me feeling both sad and happy. If you guys read the book, you will understand what I mean. A strong heroine and a fast plot kept me entertained from the beginning to the end. I can recommend this to readers who like deep and thoughtful novels with an hint of intrigue.
My rating : 5/5
When I saw the blog tour, I was interested in the book because of the blurb. The book cover didn't appeal to me that much at the beginning but as the story progressed, the picture made sense.
The beginning was intriguing with the way the author introduced the characters one after the other. First the protagonist, Loreena is introduced. She is a very strong character in the book. She doesn't bend to the circumstances but the situation adapts to her. Though she is blind, she sees clearly than others. In addition to her, all the other characters inclusive of Saul and her uncle are all well developed. The author has made the story equally based on the characters and the story.
The tale didn't let up even for one second. I quite enjoyed the book and the supernatural story had me in its grasp and I was turning the pages fast to know the upcoming scenes.The dialogue was very natural and none of the interactions were forced. All were in sync. It 's a very good author who can blend many traits and give an excellent story. This book has all ingredients to make an excellent and entertaining read - emotions, love, thrill and danger.
The way the author has featured the afterlife left me thoughtful on my life. This is one thought provoking novel in some aspects.
The ending had me feeling both sad and happy. If you guys read the book, you will understand what I mean. A strong heroine and a fast plot kept me entertained from the beginning to the end. I can recommend this to readers who like deep and thoughtful novels with an hint of intrigue.
My rating : 5/5
August 6, 2016
The Story
This is the story of Loreena, a young woman who has the ability to kill with her touch. Her uncle, the pastor of the local church, persuades her to use her gift to usher terminally ill members of his flock to a merciful death.
But gifts need to be used wisely. And when Loreena's troubled brother comes to town she is pushed to see just what she will do with her gift.
What I Think
I liked this book. I found Loreena to be an interesting character. And she certainly has an interesting gift. I like that this gift is a little bit of a double edged sword. She is able to regain her sight for a short time when she uses this gift. But the end result is that individuals die when she uses her gift. I like that she has to make choices about what she is willing to do with her gift also. It makes for an action packed story. I like that it is an intelligent book.
Who Should Read This Book
This book is definitely for more mature readers. There is violence. And the nature of Loreena's gift is a more mature subject. But if you are looking for a book with a touch of the supernatural and loads of twists and turns, this book is for you.
Disclaimer
I did receive a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, but the opinions are all mine.
This is the story of Loreena, a young woman who has the ability to kill with her touch. Her uncle, the pastor of the local church, persuades her to use her gift to usher terminally ill members of his flock to a merciful death.
But gifts need to be used wisely. And when Loreena's troubled brother comes to town she is pushed to see just what she will do with her gift.
What I Think
I liked this book. I found Loreena to be an interesting character. And she certainly has an interesting gift. I like that this gift is a little bit of a double edged sword. She is able to regain her sight for a short time when she uses this gift. But the end result is that individuals die when she uses her gift. I like that she has to make choices about what she is willing to do with her gift also. It makes for an action packed story. I like that it is an intelligent book.
Who Should Read This Book
This book is definitely for more mature readers. There is violence. And the nature of Loreena's gift is a more mature subject. But if you are looking for a book with a touch of the supernatural and loads of twists and turns, this book is for you.
Disclaimer
I did receive a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, but the opinions are all mine.
September 30, 2017
I really wish I could have given this a 3.5. The write up synopsis of the book was a fair bit bit different then the story so it was a little misleading, which is why I gave a 3 instead of a 4. I still really enjoyed the book.
I am editing my rating, the synopsis on a group library for visually impaired individuals that I found the book, was a bit different then what I am reading here on Goodreads. I think the first chapter was a bit of a slow start and I think it was a couple chapters in before I really got into the book. :)
I think the premise was quite good and the main character was very well written. I think it is clear the author has personal experience with vision loss, or did a fantastic job of researching and developing her character to seem believable. As someone who is legally blind, with reduced visual field, I found the character, Loreena, to be believable. She did seem a bit more mature and confident then I would have thought for her environment she grew up in being so sheltered. Still, very well done!
I hope that perhaps there is another book, maybe a new character, or the same, either is fine, but to really explore the many possibilities of what happens after someone dies.
I think this book is worth reading at least once. I would read more books from this author.
I am editing my rating, the synopsis on a group library for visually impaired individuals that I found the book, was a bit different then what I am reading here on Goodreads. I think the first chapter was a bit of a slow start and I think it was a couple chapters in before I really got into the book. :)
I think the premise was quite good and the main character was very well written. I think it is clear the author has personal experience with vision loss, or did a fantastic job of researching and developing her character to seem believable. As someone who is legally blind, with reduced visual field, I found the character, Loreena, to be believable. She did seem a bit more mature and confident then I would have thought for her environment she grew up in being so sheltered. Still, very well done!
I hope that perhaps there is another book, maybe a new character, or the same, either is fine, but to really explore the many possibilities of what happens after someone dies.
I think this book is worth reading at least once. I would read more books from this author.
August 20, 2017
Calling Loreena's Gift a paranormal thriller would not do it justice, although it certainly is one. The story of Loreena, a blind young woman who has the mysterious ability to kill with a touch and escort a soul into eternity, has more heart, more beauty, and a more thought-provoking take on the afterlife than any other thriller I have read. I cheered and cried through the book and couldn't put it down. The characters are real, the writing is lovely, and the plot is gripping. I was left pondering life, death, justice, and family.
June 14, 2017
When you're blind, with a amazingly terrifying 'gift', you have to trust someone. But who?
Loreena's been sheltered by her pastor uncle. But when her brother returns, how can she turn her back on the closest person to her? Even if he's 'gone astray'.
This wonderful, real, fully rounded character makes me wonder what I'd do, faced with both a blessing and a curse, wrapped up in one package.
Wow. Great book. It'll really make you think
Loreena's been sheltered by her pastor uncle. But when her brother returns, how can she turn her back on the closest person to her? Even if he's 'gone astray'.
This wonderful, real, fully rounded character makes me wonder what I'd do, faced with both a blessing and a curse, wrapped up in one package.
Wow. Great book. It'll really make you think
October 21, 2016
Loved it!!
August 4, 2016
When we first meet Loreena, she is walking back from the Church to her uncle’s home. The opening scene does establish a lot of things about her. With the best of intentions, her uncle has provided her with quite a sheltered life revolving around playing the piano at the church. We soon learn that this is just partly him being protective about her. Well, maybe he would have been more open about her exploring the world a lot more once she became an adult if not for the fact that along with reaching adulthood, she also ends up with “poisonous hands”. When she accidentally kills the gardener, her uncle decides that he can take her help to relieve the terminally ill people of his congregation out of their misery. Maybe, this can be Loreena making amends for her sin of killing a perfectly healthy, innocent man.
The author’s idea of the afterlife is pretty interesting. To be honest, I didn’t know that there would be so many references about the Church and the almighty. I don’t read Christian fiction so I was wondering whether the whole book was going to be filled with religious references. Thankfully, that didn’t happen and the concepts of heaven and hell are discussed in a way that is probably relatable irrespective of whatever faith you subscribe to. In a weird, morbid way, it was actually kind of fun to see what kind of fate is waiting for the different people Loreena ends up killing.
The story is told in third-person but mostly from Loreena’s POV. So, the author does a really good job of walking us through her shoes by not making us see but “feel” and “hear” what’s happening - there is a lot of description about the footsteps and flooring and weather.
The drive was long, but the air still smelled of rain, and it came in fresh through the front vents.
-Pg. 192
The ground was soft, her flat shoes sinking into the dirt with each step.
-Pg. 194
A series of events leads Loreena right amidst a gang war between two groups trying to wrest control of a small town. She is captured by one group and blackmailed into killing their rivals in exchange for her brother’s safety. It was interesting to see her introspecting after she causes each death and whether the person deserved the scenario of heaven/hell that waited for them.
I just couldn’t get into the whole cloak-and-dagger and crime aspect of this book though. It was way too predictable and none of the deaths surprised me either. I could see what went down in the final few pages even before I finished 1/4th of the book. As stated by the synopsis, the book is about life, death and what lies beyond; told by metaphorically using the fantasy element of a girl “literally” walking people into their afterlives. I think that was a really cool idea and one of the book’s stronger suits. But the book also has quite a lot of “crime fiction” as the backdrop. I found this aspect of the book a bit half-baked and just very… linear.
I liked the book though. It had a different concept and well, if you want to read the book more for its transcendental ideas, then you would probably enjoy it a lot more than I did.
*Note: I received a print copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review for iRead book tour. Originally posted on bookmyopia/wordpress*
The author’s idea of the afterlife is pretty interesting. To be honest, I didn’t know that there would be so many references about the Church and the almighty. I don’t read Christian fiction so I was wondering whether the whole book was going to be filled with religious references. Thankfully, that didn’t happen and the concepts of heaven and hell are discussed in a way that is probably relatable irrespective of whatever faith you subscribe to. In a weird, morbid way, it was actually kind of fun to see what kind of fate is waiting for the different people Loreena ends up killing.
The story is told in third-person but mostly from Loreena’s POV. So, the author does a really good job of walking us through her shoes by not making us see but “feel” and “hear” what’s happening - there is a lot of description about the footsteps and flooring and weather.
The drive was long, but the air still smelled of rain, and it came in fresh through the front vents.
-Pg. 192
The ground was soft, her flat shoes sinking into the dirt with each step.
-Pg. 194
A series of events leads Loreena right amidst a gang war between two groups trying to wrest control of a small town. She is captured by one group and blackmailed into killing their rivals in exchange for her brother’s safety. It was interesting to see her introspecting after she causes each death and whether the person deserved the scenario of heaven/hell that waited for them.
I just couldn’t get into the whole cloak-and-dagger and crime aspect of this book though. It was way too predictable and none of the deaths surprised me either. I could see what went down in the final few pages even before I finished 1/4th of the book. As stated by the synopsis, the book is about life, death and what lies beyond; told by metaphorically using the fantasy element of a girl “literally” walking people into their afterlives. I think that was a really cool idea and one of the book’s stronger suits. But the book also has quite a lot of “crime fiction” as the backdrop. I found this aspect of the book a bit half-baked and just very… linear.
I liked the book though. It had a different concept and well, if you want to read the book more for its transcendental ideas, then you would probably enjoy it a lot more than I did.
*Note: I received a print copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review for iRead book tour. Originally posted on bookmyopia/wordpress*
November 21, 2016
Loreena had lost both parents - a father she remembers very little about & a mother who was an angel but died in a tragic car accident involving nine year old Loreena and eleven year old Saul. Saul escaped with a few lacerations and bruises. Loreena became permanently blind. It was several years later the painful discovery was revealed that the blindness was accompanied by a "gift".
Their Uncle Don - a single minister - took them in, loved and raised them the best he could, and became their "father figure". Adventurous Saul often got into trouble and, at the end of his high school years, had a strong disagreement with his uncle and left home to "sew his wild oats". Unfortunately, that led him into an undesirable crowd.
Loreena's Uncle Don resolved her "gift" had to come from God so tried to find ways to use it for the good of mankind. However, he insisted they keep it a secret between just them.
Saul had been Loreena's eyes for years. He was very protective of her and dragged her with him while he described their surroundings in detail. Through him she enjoyed sunrises, sunsets, weather and seasonal changes, plus, descriptions of events and people's appearances. Without him, she felt very lonely.
Although blind, she played the cello and piano for church. She was very adept in doing things by feel and was very self sufficient. She only used her cane in unfamiliar places or on uneven ground.
After using her "gift" at the house of an acquaintance of her uncle, her brother and the daughter of this acquaintance showed up together. The daughter was distraught but she shared a moment with her brother - gone for three years - and planned to meet him on the weekend for a date with him. As the night of the date arrived, she was disappointed to find his new girlfriend was there also.
The evening turned into a disaster! From this point on, Loreena's life turned "upside down" and her brother went missing. oud she ever find him?...If she did, would he be alive? Would she ever escape this nightmare?
The adventures and action steadily move along as Loreena desperately searches for her brother and is forced into despicable situations. The reader will experience emotions of endearment, empathy, anger, frustration, shock, and joy - not I that order. As the reader feels he/she knows what will come next, a twist in the plot is made and the reader is left guessing again.
The Book Cover is passable, but may not catch the "browser's eye". The Title is a great fit. The characters are described well and easily visualized. The situations and background scenery is portrayed well. There is a steady "flow" in literary content and the story line is somewhat unique.
^Reader beware, there is some profanity and a sexual situation.
I offer this book a Four and a Half Stars rating.
I received this book as a gift but am in no way obligated to give a positive review. This is my honest review.
Their Uncle Don - a single minister - took them in, loved and raised them the best he could, and became their "father figure". Adventurous Saul often got into trouble and, at the end of his high school years, had a strong disagreement with his uncle and left home to "sew his wild oats". Unfortunately, that led him into an undesirable crowd.
Loreena's Uncle Don resolved her "gift" had to come from God so tried to find ways to use it for the good of mankind. However, he insisted they keep it a secret between just them.
Saul had been Loreena's eyes for years. He was very protective of her and dragged her with him while he described their surroundings in detail. Through him she enjoyed sunrises, sunsets, weather and seasonal changes, plus, descriptions of events and people's appearances. Without him, she felt very lonely.
Although blind, she played the cello and piano for church. She was very adept in doing things by feel and was very self sufficient. She only used her cane in unfamiliar places or on uneven ground.
After using her "gift" at the house of an acquaintance of her uncle, her brother and the daughter of this acquaintance showed up together. The daughter was distraught but she shared a moment with her brother - gone for three years - and planned to meet him on the weekend for a date with him. As the night of the date arrived, she was disappointed to find his new girlfriend was there also.
The evening turned into a disaster! From this point on, Loreena's life turned "upside down" and her brother went missing. oud she ever find him?...If she did, would he be alive? Would she ever escape this nightmare?
The adventures and action steadily move along as Loreena desperately searches for her brother and is forced into despicable situations. The reader will experience emotions of endearment, empathy, anger, frustration, shock, and joy - not I that order. As the reader feels he/she knows what will come next, a twist in the plot is made and the reader is left guessing again.
The Book Cover is passable, but may not catch the "browser's eye". The Title is a great fit. The characters are described well and easily visualized. The situations and background scenery is portrayed well. There is a steady "flow" in literary content and the story line is somewhat unique.
^Reader beware, there is some profanity and a sexual situation.
I offer this book a Four and a Half Stars rating.
I received this book as a gift but am in no way obligated to give a positive review. This is my honest review.
October 29, 2016
This engaging audio presents a different view (not religious) of afterlife. My Rating 4.25.
Loreena has more troubles than just her blindness. If she touches anyone hand to hand she takes them to their death. The first time it happens as an accident to a growing friend and she is devastated. Guilt is a heavy burden even as her uncle, a preacher, pushes her to assist terminally ill congregants to ‘pass over’. Each death journey is different once they pass through the initial ‘tunnel’. In addition to the guilt she feels Loreena is confused by what she perceives as conflict in the journeys and the faith teachings of her uncle.
Loreena is thrilled to unexpectedly see her brother, Saul, who walked away three years before. She agrees to go out with him and his new girlfriend, who happened to be the daughter of the cancer patient she just helped. During their evening at the bar a business ‘enforcer’ comes after Saul. The man beats Saul and then pulls a gun. Loreena reacts to stop the man – an act that propels her into a nightmare.
This engaging audio presents a different view (not religious) of afterlife. My Rating 4.25.
A strange man appears in the church. Dominic claims to be a journalist who wants to do an interview of the blind church pianist. Loreena steps out of her carefully controlled world and convinces Dominic to help her go looking for her brother. Instead they find a gang boss who wants to use her skills for his own purposes.
The story is told from Loreena’s POV and the author does a good job of presenting her world of sounds, smells and touches. When Loreena is forced to use her ‘gift’ against her will some of the afterlife scenes are far from serene. The story has a certain amount of creepiness and darkness – in more than sight. There is violence and a jolting rape scene. It fits in the story but is painful.
The story is listed under ‘religious and inspirational’ but I didn’t really feel it fit that genre as much as it fits in fantasy and paranormal. I liked the twists of the story and found it very engaging. I recommend this to readers who like paranormal tales with a bit of darkness (no pun intended).
Audio Notes: Alyssa Bresnahan does an effective job of narration. Her voice fits the age of Loreena (21) and even though the presentation is a bit low key (her style I think?) she conveys the emotions of the characters. The narration enhanced my engagement with the story.
I received this title from the publisher.
Loreena has more troubles than just her blindness. If she touches anyone hand to hand she takes them to their death. The first time it happens as an accident to a growing friend and she is devastated. Guilt is a heavy burden even as her uncle, a preacher, pushes her to assist terminally ill congregants to ‘pass over’. Each death journey is different once they pass through the initial ‘tunnel’. In addition to the guilt she feels Loreena is confused by what she perceives as conflict in the journeys and the faith teachings of her uncle.
Loreena is thrilled to unexpectedly see her brother, Saul, who walked away three years before. She agrees to go out with him and his new girlfriend, who happened to be the daughter of the cancer patient she just helped. During their evening at the bar a business ‘enforcer’ comes after Saul. The man beats Saul and then pulls a gun. Loreena reacts to stop the man – an act that propels her into a nightmare.
This engaging audio presents a different view (not religious) of afterlife. My Rating 4.25.
A strange man appears in the church. Dominic claims to be a journalist who wants to do an interview of the blind church pianist. Loreena steps out of her carefully controlled world and convinces Dominic to help her go looking for her brother. Instead they find a gang boss who wants to use her skills for his own purposes.
The story is told from Loreena’s POV and the author does a good job of presenting her world of sounds, smells and touches. When Loreena is forced to use her ‘gift’ against her will some of the afterlife scenes are far from serene. The story has a certain amount of creepiness and darkness – in more than sight. There is violence and a jolting rape scene. It fits in the story but is painful.
The story is listed under ‘religious and inspirational’ but I didn’t really feel it fit that genre as much as it fits in fantasy and paranormal. I liked the twists of the story and found it very engaging. I recommend this to readers who like paranormal tales with a bit of darkness (no pun intended).
Audio Notes: Alyssa Bresnahan does an effective job of narration. Her voice fits the age of Loreena (21) and even though the presentation is a bit low key (her style I think?) she conveys the emotions of the characters. The narration enhanced my engagement with the story.
I received this title from the publisher.
November 18, 2016
There are so many layers to this novel, and once they unfold, there are so many more.
Loreena lives with her uncle, a preacher, and fulfills her role as an ideal niece in every way. Her gift--or curse she wonders--allows her to lead people over the borders of death and accompany them a distance into their beyond with the single touch of her hand against theirs. Her uncle uses her for mercy killings, something she's not sure is right. But this use of her abilities is still much better than the nightmare she soon finds herself, when an attempt to save her brother lands in her the middle of a criminal war.
This book blew me away on so many levels. Loreena is blind due to a car accident, but instead of wallowing in pity or trying to figure out how to live with it, she's already living again. The lack of sight is part of her life, as natural as the nose on her face. The author does a fantastic job allowing this disability to present the scenes in a way which concentrates on other senses besides sight and through this, really brings them to life.
In some ways, this a coming of age. Loreena is about to turn eighteen but leads a very sheltered life. She questions her uncle and situation inwardly but doesn't really plan on rebelling. She's unsure of her talent and doubts that having such a gift could ever be deemed a blessing. The tight and controlled world she lives in some ways isn't much different than the confinement she finds herself in later.
Outside of all this inner struggling depth, the story offers tons of tension, action and suspense. Loreena finds herself in a living nightmare, forced to use her gift to further a powerful man's lust for power. But this isn't only about her, the crime ring comes to life, each member she has contact with hitting with their own personality and importance. It's a gritty battle to survive, where everything takes sudden turns and never good ones. The author brings the fear, uncertainty, disgust and hatred across until it gets under the skin. In other words, this is not the kind of book easily set down until the very end.
This is not a gentle book but bites hard. There is a brief rape scene and violence, although never overly graphic, plays along in many of the later scenes. I wouldn't recommend this to the lower end of the YA group and am sure adults will enjoy it as well.
Loreena lives with her uncle, a preacher, and fulfills her role as an ideal niece in every way. Her gift--or curse she wonders--allows her to lead people over the borders of death and accompany them a distance into their beyond with the single touch of her hand against theirs. Her uncle uses her for mercy killings, something she's not sure is right. But this use of her abilities is still much better than the nightmare she soon finds herself, when an attempt to save her brother lands in her the middle of a criminal war.
This book blew me away on so many levels. Loreena is blind due to a car accident, but instead of wallowing in pity or trying to figure out how to live with it, she's already living again. The lack of sight is part of her life, as natural as the nose on her face. The author does a fantastic job allowing this disability to present the scenes in a way which concentrates on other senses besides sight and through this, really brings them to life.
In some ways, this a coming of age. Loreena is about to turn eighteen but leads a very sheltered life. She questions her uncle and situation inwardly but doesn't really plan on rebelling. She's unsure of her talent and doubts that having such a gift could ever be deemed a blessing. The tight and controlled world she lives in some ways isn't much different than the confinement she finds herself in later.
Outside of all this inner struggling depth, the story offers tons of tension, action and suspense. Loreena finds herself in a living nightmare, forced to use her gift to further a powerful man's lust for power. But this isn't only about her, the crime ring comes to life, each member she has contact with hitting with their own personality and importance. It's a gritty battle to survive, where everything takes sudden turns and never good ones. The author brings the fear, uncertainty, disgust and hatred across until it gets under the skin. In other words, this is not the kind of book easily set down until the very end.
This is not a gentle book but bites hard. There is a brief rape scene and violence, although never overly graphic, plays along in many of the later scenes. I wouldn't recommend this to the lower end of the YA group and am sure adults will enjoy it as well.
December 1, 2016
I had read great reviews about this book so I had high expectations as I began reading it. And I was not disappointed! Loreena's Gift was an engrossing, well-written novel with a great heroine who I liked immediately. As a matter of fact, I so enjoyed reading this book that I didn't want it to end. I actually think the whole concept of this book would make a great TV mini-series.
Loreena is blind at the age of nine from a car accident that killed her mother. She and her older brother Saul are raised by their kind Reverend uncle, but despite this, as soon as he is able, Saul moves out of that small town. Loreena has a strange gift, although she sees it more as a curse. She can kill someone with the touch of her hand. By placing the palm of her hand in another person's palm she temporarily regains her eyesight as she ferrets that person to their afterlife, an afterlife that is different for every person depending on what kind of life they've led. Being Christian, I have my views and beliefs of the afterlife, and the book did not dwell on a Biblical viewpoint. So this concept wasn't religious but rather a fantastical element in this fiction novel much like a superhero complex with a parallel world.
Loreena leads a simple life until two things happen. Her troubled brother returns to town and she meets a stranger to whom she becomes attracted. The book is action-packed and there is never a dull moment as these two individuals inadvertently influence the decisions Loreena makes. She gets into the crossfire between two rival gangs and is forced to make some of the hardest choices in her life.
The author has created an unforgettable character in Loreena. We see the world through her blind eyes and her young innocent persona. I've worked with the blind and I was impressed with the author's ability to bring this world to life realistically. The novel is suspenseful, with moments of romance and coming-of-age for a young secluded but intelligent girl.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this novel with its themes of family, forgiveness, choice of right and wrong, and the question of how we use our gifts, whatever they may be. I look forward to reading more of Colleen M. Story's work and hope she has another novel on the way. Loreena's Gift has made it on my Best Reads of 2016 list.
Loreena is blind at the age of nine from a car accident that killed her mother. She and her older brother Saul are raised by their kind Reverend uncle, but despite this, as soon as he is able, Saul moves out of that small town. Loreena has a strange gift, although she sees it more as a curse. She can kill someone with the touch of her hand. By placing the palm of her hand in another person's palm she temporarily regains her eyesight as she ferrets that person to their afterlife, an afterlife that is different for every person depending on what kind of life they've led. Being Christian, I have my views and beliefs of the afterlife, and the book did not dwell on a Biblical viewpoint. So this concept wasn't religious but rather a fantastical element in this fiction novel much like a superhero complex with a parallel world.
Loreena leads a simple life until two things happen. Her troubled brother returns to town and she meets a stranger to whom she becomes attracted. The book is action-packed and there is never a dull moment as these two individuals inadvertently influence the decisions Loreena makes. She gets into the crossfire between two rival gangs and is forced to make some of the hardest choices in her life.
The author has created an unforgettable character in Loreena. We see the world through her blind eyes and her young innocent persona. I've worked with the blind and I was impressed with the author's ability to bring this world to life realistically. The novel is suspenseful, with moments of romance and coming-of-age for a young secluded but intelligent girl.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this novel with its themes of family, forgiveness, choice of right and wrong, and the question of how we use our gifts, whatever they may be. I look forward to reading more of Colleen M. Story's work and hope she has another novel on the way. Loreena's Gift has made it on my Best Reads of 2016 list.
January 29, 2017
Reviewed by Carol Hoyer for Reader Views (1/17)
Colleen Story is a very creative writer that has developed her characters and story line into a fine craft. “Loreena’s Gift” is a story about loss, love, romance, and suspense.
At the age of nine, Loreena lost her mother in a tragic accident, one that caused Loreena to become blind, and her brother Saul to change drastically. Loreena and Saul were taken in by their Uncle Don, a local minister. Uncle Don, a single man does the best he can raising two young children, however, he and Saul don’t see eye-to-eye and Saul moves out after harsh words were spoken. Saul has always been Loreena’s “eyes” and his moving out is a big loss.
Loreena and her Uncle find she has a “gift” and can help those who are terminally ill move peacefully into death. Although her Uncle thinks this is fine, Loreena always ponders if it is the right thing to do. Very few are aware of her gift and her Uncle wants to keep it that way. When Saul returns home with his outspoken and controlling girlfriend, Loreena finds that he is involved in shady deals in the drug world. Wanting to help her brother get back to his old life, she follows the girlfriend to bargain for his life. Loreena is captured and used for her “gift” to end the lives of competing drug lords. One of the men who guard over her works for the FBI and wants Loreena to cooperate with Frank, the seedy drug lord, so the FBI can take him down. This puts Loreena in a very difficult and dangerous situation, one that might end her life.
Initially, when reading Story’s book, I thought it was going to be a deeply involved religious lecture book, but surprisingly, it was not. The underlying story gave food for thought on the afterlife, and what it means.
“Loreena’s Gift” by Colleen M. Story is very well written, engaging, and a book that is hard to put down. This is one of those books that really provides readers with all they might want in a book. It is easy to read, transitions between scenarios are smooth, and prompts readers to ponder, “What would I do in this situation?”
Colleen Story is a very creative writer that has developed her characters and story line into a fine craft. “Loreena’s Gift” is a story about loss, love, romance, and suspense.
At the age of nine, Loreena lost her mother in a tragic accident, one that caused Loreena to become blind, and her brother Saul to change drastically. Loreena and Saul were taken in by their Uncle Don, a local minister. Uncle Don, a single man does the best he can raising two young children, however, he and Saul don’t see eye-to-eye and Saul moves out after harsh words were spoken. Saul has always been Loreena’s “eyes” and his moving out is a big loss.
Loreena and her Uncle find she has a “gift” and can help those who are terminally ill move peacefully into death. Although her Uncle thinks this is fine, Loreena always ponders if it is the right thing to do. Very few are aware of her gift and her Uncle wants to keep it that way. When Saul returns home with his outspoken and controlling girlfriend, Loreena finds that he is involved in shady deals in the drug world. Wanting to help her brother get back to his old life, she follows the girlfriend to bargain for his life. Loreena is captured and used for her “gift” to end the lives of competing drug lords. One of the men who guard over her works for the FBI and wants Loreena to cooperate with Frank, the seedy drug lord, so the FBI can take him down. This puts Loreena in a very difficult and dangerous situation, one that might end her life.
Initially, when reading Story’s book, I thought it was going to be a deeply involved religious lecture book, but surprisingly, it was not. The underlying story gave food for thought on the afterlife, and what it means.
“Loreena’s Gift” by Colleen M. Story is very well written, engaging, and a book that is hard to put down. This is one of those books that really provides readers with all they might want in a book. It is easy to read, transitions between scenarios are smooth, and prompts readers to ponder, “What would I do in this situation?”
August 2, 2016
*I received a physical copy of this book in return for an honest review.
This story was so much more than I thought it was going to be. The writing was excellent! I was drawn in from the very first page. I didn't want to put it down for one minute, and I read it all in one sitting.
Everything was described in such vivid detail. It drew me into the story and I felt like I was in Loreena's shoes every step of the way. It is a visual book without having any pictures. Everything is so detailed that I could see it all in my mind. The setting, and characters were all described so beautifully. The story moved along at a steady pace and was easy to follow. The chapters were well spaced out. Everything flowed very well. The plot thickened and the pace of the book picked up even more middle way through and it was impossible to put down. There are some twists and turns and a few surprised in the story.
The main character Loreena was really dealt a crappy hand in life. She suffered a horrific death of a parent, she was blind, and well, her gift was more of a curse. I definitely felt better about my life after having to read about her tragic life.
Warning: I just want readers to be forewarned, a rape does occur in this story. It wasn't too hard to handle. It was quick and done in a way that it doesn't completely make you nauseous. It did turn my stomach a little bit. I don't like to read that type of stuff in books. This was my only dislike in the story. I could have done without reading about that. I know what the author was trying to do. She was trying to portray this character as completely evil. It all makes sense why she put this in the book not too long after it happens. It is just hard for me to stomach.
Overall, I really enjoyed reading this book. It held my interest, I was never bored, and it was something different from the norm. I hope this author decides to write more fiction because she is great at it! I will definitely read her next book.
This story was so much more than I thought it was going to be. The writing was excellent! I was drawn in from the very first page. I didn't want to put it down for one minute, and I read it all in one sitting.
Everything was described in such vivid detail. It drew me into the story and I felt like I was in Loreena's shoes every step of the way. It is a visual book without having any pictures. Everything is so detailed that I could see it all in my mind. The setting, and characters were all described so beautifully. The story moved along at a steady pace and was easy to follow. The chapters were well spaced out. Everything flowed very well. The plot thickened and the pace of the book picked up even more middle way through and it was impossible to put down. There are some twists and turns and a few surprised in the story.
The main character Loreena was really dealt a crappy hand in life. She suffered a horrific death of a parent, she was blind, and well, her gift was more of a curse. I definitely felt better about my life after having to read about her tragic life.
Warning: I just want readers to be forewarned, a rape does occur in this story. It wasn't too hard to handle. It was quick and done in a way that it doesn't completely make you nauseous. It did turn my stomach a little bit. I don't like to read that type of stuff in books. This was my only dislike in the story. I could have done without reading about that. I know what the author was trying to do. She was trying to portray this character as completely evil. It all makes sense why she put this in the book not too long after it happens. It is just hard for me to stomach.
Overall, I really enjoyed reading this book. It held my interest, I was never bored, and it was something different from the norm. I hope this author decides to write more fiction because she is great at it! I will definitely read her next book.
August 4, 2016
Loreena was a great leading lady...so unexpected and refreshing. I found her warming my heart with her innocence and bringing a smile to my face with every hesitant step she took towards finding not only her family but herself. Dominic was a welcome distraction to her otherwise sheltered existence (and not hard on the eyes either!) and gave her the first real reason, the first excuse for her to step outside her personal box. Once that first step was taken, there was no turning back and the events that follow wouldn't even allow her if she tried.
I was an emotional rollercoaster while between the pages because honestly, there is so much going on, so much to care or worry about, that you can't help but be anything else. From the moment we learn of Loreena's gift to the first time we experience it in a controlled environment, from the impact it has on her every moment to seeing it released without restraint, it was a lot to take in. I was utterly heartbroken for some of the characters because they truly did not deserve their fate, but there were others that I was elated to be right about. There's just so many emotions jumping right off the page, it's hard to read and not be affected by it.
In the end, it was an amazing and surprising story. Though there are many characters to choose a favorite from, mine would have to be Loreena, hands down. The way she looks at the world, even without actual sight. The way she keeps pushing forward even when all she wants to do is give up because what little hope she had died somewhere along the way. It truly was a great story that I would recommend to adult Fiction readers (due to some content and concepts) without hesitation because there's a little something for everyone while serving as a great reminder to do the best with what we are given, live life with a true heart, and NEVER GIVE UP.
**review copy received in exchange for my honest review... full post can be seen on my site**
I was an emotional rollercoaster while between the pages because honestly, there is so much going on, so much to care or worry about, that you can't help but be anything else. From the moment we learn of Loreena's gift to the first time we experience it in a controlled environment, from the impact it has on her every moment to seeing it released without restraint, it was a lot to take in. I was utterly heartbroken for some of the characters because they truly did not deserve their fate, but there were others that I was elated to be right about. There's just so many emotions jumping right off the page, it's hard to read and not be affected by it.
In the end, it was an amazing and surprising story. Though there are many characters to choose a favorite from, mine would have to be Loreena, hands down. The way she looks at the world, even without actual sight. The way she keeps pushing forward even when all she wants to do is give up because what little hope she had died somewhere along the way. It truly was a great story that I would recommend to adult Fiction readers (due to some content and concepts) without hesitation because there's a little something for everyone while serving as a great reminder to do the best with what we are given, live life with a true heart, and NEVER GIVE UP.
**review copy received in exchange for my honest review... full post can be seen on my site**
July 29, 2016
In this supernatural novel, which the author dedicates to her mother, a young blind woman named Loreena Picket lives with her uncle, a pastor at a community church, serving its congregation as pianist. However, she has a sinister ability, which is to end lives by touching others. While her uncle considers this a blessing in shepherding others into the afterlife, Loreena has a guilty conscience, with her ability, for one thing, allowing temporary recovery of her eyesight. She ultimately reveals her ability to her older brother when she saves him from a drug dealer, although she’s quickly drawn into a world that will test her resolve.
The main action of the narrative opens in 1967, with exposition that the reverend’s residence stands twenty-two steps from the back door of Stillwater Christian Church, and Loreena remembering what the house she and her uncle occupies looks like, a hint at the aforementioned temporary recovery of her eyesight. Among the early recipients of her mortal touch is a lung cancer patient named Russell Pearson, with her Uncle Don insisting her power is a kind of merciful euthanasia. Her brother comes home early on, with the incident involving the drug dealer inciting the chief action of the storyline.
Story’s novel for the most part does a nice job fleshing out the primary narrative, with the perspective mostly being third-person limited, given the looks into Loreena’s mind, and will give those such as this reviewer who very much value their eyesight a nice insight into the psychology of the blind. The author likely did research as well into the lifestyles of the blind, as she acknowledges after the storyline ends the National Federation of the Blind and one of its conventions she attended years ago. Overall, this is very much a recommended novel to those seeking an enthralling, relatively contemporary supernatural narrative.
The main action of the narrative opens in 1967, with exposition that the reverend’s residence stands twenty-two steps from the back door of Stillwater Christian Church, and Loreena remembering what the house she and her uncle occupies looks like, a hint at the aforementioned temporary recovery of her eyesight. Among the early recipients of her mortal touch is a lung cancer patient named Russell Pearson, with her Uncle Don insisting her power is a kind of merciful euthanasia. Her brother comes home early on, with the incident involving the drug dealer inciting the chief action of the storyline.
Story’s novel for the most part does a nice job fleshing out the primary narrative, with the perspective mostly being third-person limited, given the looks into Loreena’s mind, and will give those such as this reviewer who very much value their eyesight a nice insight into the psychology of the blind. The author likely did research as well into the lifestyles of the blind, as she acknowledges after the storyline ends the National Federation of the Blind and one of its conventions she attended years ago. Overall, this is very much a recommended novel to those seeking an enthralling, relatively contemporary supernatural narrative.
July 29, 2016
Loreena spends just about all of her life at the church with her Uncle. She leads a quiet life playing music fo the congregation on Sunday and taking the rest of the week being in a routine with her Uncle. Every once in a while, he takes her out to a parishioner's house with one who is dying and Loreena imparts her gift to them to relieve them of their suffering. Her uncle says it's all a part of G-d's plan. On one of these visit's her brother saul finds her. He wants to take her away from the church and have fun so they go out one Friday night. It turns into a sinister turn of events when Loreena has to use her gift to protect her brother. The wrong people find out and Loreena gets taken. Now bad people have say over how she uses her gift. Will she survive the Biker gangs misuse of her gift. Will she lose her mind before she loses her life?
The Pearls - This book was well done. It had all the elements of good craft. Strong- plotline, great characters, good pacing. It was really good.
Loreena was a highlight for me in this book. She comes off as mousey at first but she quickly grows into her role the circumstances forces her in. I don't think I have ever seen a character grow in a story with such strength and finesse as Loreena did. It was incredible to see her endure though many times she wanted to give up. It was inspiring.
The supporting characters were well done as well. There were characters you wanted to love or really hate there was not many characters that fell in between that. Just overall a healthy offering of characters of all kinds to make for a well-developed story full of depth.
Full Review: Writing Pearls
The Pearls - This book was well done. It had all the elements of good craft. Strong- plotline, great characters, good pacing. It was really good.
Loreena was a highlight for me in this book. She comes off as mousey at first but she quickly grows into her role the circumstances forces her in. I don't think I have ever seen a character grow in a story with such strength and finesse as Loreena did. It was incredible to see her endure though many times she wanted to give up. It was inspiring.
The supporting characters were well done as well. There were characters you wanted to love or really hate there was not many characters that fell in between that. Just overall a healthy offering of characters of all kinds to make for a well-developed story full of depth.
Full Review: Writing Pearls
August 1, 2016
I really enjoyed the unusual, diverse story line in this book. In our interview the author shared it was inspired by, "How we look at life and our beliefs about it greatly affect the kind of lives we live."
First we are introduced to a young woman with a unique ability - by holding their hand she personally escorts them to their after life. Her uncle, a minister, feels this gift is best used to help those in his congregation that are suffering and near death. But there is a personal lure that makes this appealing. Loreena lost her sight when young and as she escorts those to their personal afterlife, the blindness drops away.
What a joy to see again, and the experiences are pleasant. The problem is, it gets harder each time to return to the present - to step back into her blindness. Deep down she also questions whether this is really a gift. She has to wear gloves at all times to protect those around her and she lives in fear of accidentally taking someone's life - something that happened when her gift first appeared.
The story line then moves into a tale of love, intrigue, fear and philosophy. Loreena comes to the attention of a local drug dealer who, against her will, uses her to eliminate unwelcome rivals. This opens the door to the idea that people who embrace evil lives face a very different after life from those she's seen before. Evil actions in life leads to a dark eternity. Can she find a way to escape and will she be able to leave the terrible memories of what she saw behind?
I truly enjoyed the depth offered in Loreena's Gift. The idea of an afterlife defined by our current life, the battle of good versus evil and love are all intertwined into a great read.
First we are introduced to a young woman with a unique ability - by holding their hand she personally escorts them to their after life. Her uncle, a minister, feels this gift is best used to help those in his congregation that are suffering and near death. But there is a personal lure that makes this appealing. Loreena lost her sight when young and as she escorts those to their personal afterlife, the blindness drops away.
What a joy to see again, and the experiences are pleasant. The problem is, it gets harder each time to return to the present - to step back into her blindness. Deep down she also questions whether this is really a gift. She has to wear gloves at all times to protect those around her and she lives in fear of accidentally taking someone's life - something that happened when her gift first appeared.
The story line then moves into a tale of love, intrigue, fear and philosophy. Loreena comes to the attention of a local drug dealer who, against her will, uses her to eliminate unwelcome rivals. This opens the door to the idea that people who embrace evil lives face a very different after life from those she's seen before. Evil actions in life leads to a dark eternity. Can she find a way to escape and will she be able to leave the terrible memories of what she saw behind?
I truly enjoyed the depth offered in Loreena's Gift. The idea of an afterlife defined by our current life, the battle of good versus evil and love are all intertwined into a great read.
November 8, 2016
A very powerful and thought provoking novel. Loreena has a gift that some made not even refer to as a gift. She has to hide it every day of her life, having simple relationships is difficult for her and even trusting people with the truth is difficult for her. Who can believe this gift and if they do how can they not be terrified? That the simple touch of her hand could kill those she loves and those she does not know.
Her Uncle tries to get her to see past the outside aspect of her gift (the killing) and realize that in some ways it can be a blessing in disguise, especially for those suffering from terminally ill diseases. These people in the novel are suffering a pain that so many of us can not even begin to understand. Loreena's touch and guidance into the afterlife is a special gift that only she can give. She is there with them as they cross over into their heaven, which for so many of them is a return to the happiest moments of their lives. These moments are actually quite beautiful in the beginning of the novel.
When the wrong people find out about her gift, she is kidnapped and forced to do something she never wanted to do - kill on demand any of their enemies. She was no longer helping the terminally ill, instead she was forced to do the will of an evil person to even more evil people. You can feel the toll this takes on her. She was already conflicted about her gift and this pushes her over the edge. The story really speeds up here as she tries to escape and an unexpected person comes to her aid. This was an exciting, suspenseful and though provoking novel.
Her Uncle tries to get her to see past the outside aspect of her gift (the killing) and realize that in some ways it can be a blessing in disguise, especially for those suffering from terminally ill diseases. These people in the novel are suffering a pain that so many of us can not even begin to understand. Loreena's touch and guidance into the afterlife is a special gift that only she can give. She is there with them as they cross over into their heaven, which for so many of them is a return to the happiest moments of their lives. These moments are actually quite beautiful in the beginning of the novel.
When the wrong people find out about her gift, she is kidnapped and forced to do something she never wanted to do - kill on demand any of their enemies. She was no longer helping the terminally ill, instead she was forced to do the will of an evil person to even more evil people. You can feel the toll this takes on her. She was already conflicted about her gift and this pushes her over the edge. The story really speeds up here as she tries to escape and an unexpected person comes to her aid. This was an exciting, suspenseful and though provoking novel.
July 25, 2016
At the age of 9, Loreena lost her parents and her sight in a car accident. Her and her brother, Saul are sent to live with their Uncle Don, a preacher. Years later Loreena finds it strange that her palms always smell like sulfur, even after a lot of scrubbing. But when she accidently kills her friend and takes him to the afterlife. Loreena’s uncle convinces her to help terminally ill people cross over. But then her brother shows up and the head of a biker’s club learns of her gift/curse, Loreena is forced to use her gift to save her brother’s life.
Loreena is such a strong young woman. She has the ability to kill and take a person to the afterlife, during this time she regains her vision. But in our world she is blind and helping her uncle to help those suffering. And after she is discovered, she still does what needs to be done to save both her and her brother’s lives.
This book sucked me in and I could turn the pages fast enough to see what was going to happen to Loreena next. I really liked how although Loreena is blind she didn’t let that defeat her. Also, even though she has a gift/curse depending on how you look at it, she does her best with everything she faces.
This is a great story and hard to tell that it is Colleen Story’s first book. I absolutely loved this story and I will be on the lookout for future books from Story.
I received Loreena’s Gift for free from iRead Book Tours in exchange for an honest review.
Loreena is such a strong young woman. She has the ability to kill and take a person to the afterlife, during this time she regains her vision. But in our world she is blind and helping her uncle to help those suffering. And after she is discovered, she still does what needs to be done to save both her and her brother’s lives.
This book sucked me in and I could turn the pages fast enough to see what was going to happen to Loreena next. I really liked how although Loreena is blind she didn’t let that defeat her. Also, even though she has a gift/curse depending on how you look at it, she does her best with everything she faces.
This is a great story and hard to tell that it is Colleen Story’s first book. I absolutely loved this story and I will be on the lookout for future books from Story.
I received Loreena’s Gift for free from iRead Book Tours in exchange for an honest review.
February 16, 2017
Compelling story, beautiful blind girl who takes people to death with her touch. Loved Ms. Story's characters, all of them were well developed and brought the story alive. Ms. Story will keep you turning pages to finish this one. Thank you Colleen for a Goodread.
June 16, 2016
Let me start by saying WOW!! This was a great book. I could not put it down, I couldn't sleep needing to know what happened next so got up and read some more.
Loreena has a gift or a curse depends on who you ask. If she touches the palm of hand to your hand you will die. Loreena delivers you to your afterlife.
When Loreena was 9 she lost not only her mother but her sight in a tragic car accident. Her older brother and her went to live with their Uncle Don who is a preacher. When Loreena was around 15 she thought something was wrong with her hands. They always smelled like sulfur no mater how much she washed them. She really did not know about hr gift until one day she took the hand of a friend and he passed away, and she delivered him to his afterlife. Her Uncle Don convinced her to help people who had terminal illnesses. He would set it up and take her.
One day while helping someone her Brother shows up, he has been gone for 3 years after a fight with Uncle Don. In tow is his Girlfriend, who is also the Daughter of the person she had just helped. From there everything in Loreena's life gets turned upside.
Now that you have had a peek into the story you must read this book to find out how everything turns out.
Loreena has a gift or a curse depends on who you ask. If she touches the palm of hand to your hand you will die. Loreena delivers you to your afterlife.
When Loreena was 9 she lost not only her mother but her sight in a tragic car accident. Her older brother and her went to live with their Uncle Don who is a preacher. When Loreena was around 15 she thought something was wrong with her hands. They always smelled like sulfur no mater how much she washed them. She really did not know about hr gift until one day she took the hand of a friend and he passed away, and she delivered him to his afterlife. Her Uncle Don convinced her to help people who had terminal illnesses. He would set it up and take her.
One day while helping someone her Brother shows up, he has been gone for 3 years after a fight with Uncle Don. In tow is his Girlfriend, who is also the Daughter of the person she had just helped. From there everything in Loreena's life gets turned upside.
Now that you have had a peek into the story you must read this book to find out how everything turns out.
July 30, 2016
Somewhat of a classic good versus evil, the book has a great plot, the story flows at a good pace and the characters are well-developed.
A young girl who at 9 loses her mother and her eyesight in a tragic accident. If that were not enough, she suddenly discovers that she is ‘gifted’ with a curse – people die with a touch of her hand. Her uncle convinces her to use this for good – helping terminally ill people transition into the after life.
When her brother, who is estranged from their uncle, suddenly turns up, Loreena is compelled to help him and so is drawn into violence and evil circumstances. How she uses her ‘gift’ to survive, is what makes the story so absorbing.
I like the way the author handled the story to make it entirely believable despite the supernatural elements in it.
Loreena’s character evolves beautifully from a tentative young girl to a woman, who when confronted with difficult circumstances, proves her mettle. The other characters in the story are well portrayed too.
Although I’m not too keen on reading books in a PDF format, I couldn’t stop reading this one once I started.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
A young girl who at 9 loses her mother and her eyesight in a tragic accident. If that were not enough, she suddenly discovers that she is ‘gifted’ with a curse – people die with a touch of her hand. Her uncle convinces her to use this for good – helping terminally ill people transition into the after life.
When her brother, who is estranged from their uncle, suddenly turns up, Loreena is compelled to help him and so is drawn into violence and evil circumstances. How she uses her ‘gift’ to survive, is what makes the story so absorbing.
I like the way the author handled the story to make it entirely believable despite the supernatural elements in it.
Loreena’s character evolves beautifully from a tentative young girl to a woman, who when confronted with difficult circumstances, proves her mettle. The other characters in the story are well portrayed too.
Although I’m not too keen on reading books in a PDF format, I couldn’t stop reading this one once I started.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 20, 2016
The story line intrigued me to review this book. Fascinated by the Stephen King’s Carrie, I went to read the book.
One of the good thing about the book is the character development. The protagonist is awesome and her character evolved over the period of time in the story. In the genre of bringing the fantasy and supernatural elements the mood of the story plays a huge role. One cannot bring the elements and the necessary feel all out of blue but it has to be injected gradually. The author handled it quite well.
Apart from that If i have to talk on the pace of the book, it is a fast reading book. Author has her way to deal with the words which in turn fascinates the reader too. The character and place and the direction of the story is quite intriguing and convincing according to me.
My personal opinion about the book is you can read it if you are into character evolution or fantasy stuff. I personally liked the book for reason of the journey the protagonist has to take. It is haunting to think of ourselves in her shoes, we can see the fear and that is the success of the author.
One of the good thing about the book is the character development. The protagonist is awesome and her character evolved over the period of time in the story. In the genre of bringing the fantasy and supernatural elements the mood of the story plays a huge role. One cannot bring the elements and the necessary feel all out of blue but it has to be injected gradually. The author handled it quite well.
Apart from that If i have to talk on the pace of the book, it is a fast reading book. Author has her way to deal with the words which in turn fascinates the reader too. The character and place and the direction of the story is quite intriguing and convincing according to me.
My personal opinion about the book is you can read it if you are into character evolution or fantasy stuff. I personally liked the book for reason of the journey the protagonist has to take. It is haunting to think of ourselves in her shoes, we can see the fear and that is the success of the author.
November 13, 2016
FTC: I received a free copy of this book from iRead in exchange for my honest review. I received no other compensation and the opinions expressed in this review are one hundred percent true and my own.
Loreena’s Gift by Colleen M. Story was an interesting book. I find it weird that this week I am reviewing two books that have to do with super natural themes when it isn’t a genre I read very often in fact these might be the first two books that I have read like this. This book was interesting in the sense that it had to do with religion and things like that. I didn’t like Saul at all through the entire book. I love when I hate a character in a book because it means that author really made the characters come to life and she made me care about the story and characters. I did enjoy the book but it is one that I feel like I should read again because I almost feel like it missed something. If you love supernatural books that I would for sure check out this book. If you have read it what did you think of it?
Loreena’s Gift by Colleen M. Story was an interesting book. I find it weird that this week I am reviewing two books that have to do with super natural themes when it isn’t a genre I read very often in fact these might be the first two books that I have read like this. This book was interesting in the sense that it had to do with religion and things like that. I didn’t like Saul at all through the entire book. I love when I hate a character in a book because it means that author really made the characters come to life and she made me care about the story and characters. I did enjoy the book but it is one that I feel like I should read again because I almost feel like it missed something. If you love supernatural books that I would for sure check out this book. If you have read it what did you think of it?
July 4, 2016
Book Tour: Loreena's Gift by Colleen M. Story This is a story about a girl with a special talent. She gets into quite a few bad things. She finds out what her brother gets into. If she can ever get him out? She loves her brother so much that she does something to save him.
She's then pulled into a sinner kind of a life. In the process, she may have found her love of her life. Tough to survive, she got to do something that is within her power and a secret.
Can she save her brother and herself or will she die as well? Her life in the afterlife is different than when she's out of the afterlife.
The author does get your attention and pulls you in. Have ever been wondering what it's like in your afterlife? You can see what it's like by reading this. Is it different for each living person? That is still not answered for it really could be.
She's then pulled into a sinner kind of a life. In the process, she may have found her love of her life. Tough to survive, she got to do something that is within her power and a secret.
Can she save her brother and herself or will she die as well? Her life in the afterlife is different than when she's out of the afterlife.
The author does get your attention and pulls you in. Have ever been wondering what it's like in your afterlife? You can see what it's like by reading this. Is it different for each living person? That is still not answered for it really could be.
June 18, 2016
I am in awe that this is author, Colleen Story's debut novel. The characters were so developed and the storyline was strong. I did enjoy reading this book a lot, except for the brief rape scene. My heart just went out for Loreena when this happened. I could feel her pain...emotionally and physically. Despite Loreena being blind, she did not let this hinder her in any way. In fact, I thought that the story was stronger for this fact. It was like I could experience everything through her on a different level then just by sight.
The story did take a dark turn quickly from Loreena helping people wit her Uncle to the shady, evil world of drugs and greed. Although Loreena's brother, Saul was not very emotional and may not have expressed his love for Loreena, I did still see his love for his sister as the big brother. I look forward to seeing what this author comes out with next.
The story did take a dark turn quickly from Loreena helping people wit her Uncle to the shady, evil world of drugs and greed. Although Loreena's brother, Saul was not very emotional and may not have expressed his love for Loreena, I did still see his love for his sister as the big brother. I look forward to seeing what this author comes out with next.
July 19, 2016
I didn't know what to think of the book, but once I sat down and read the book, I thought it was a decent read. I liked the early part of the book, but once I got into the middle of the book, I got a little confused as to what was going on. But despite the fact that I was little confused to what was going on in the book, I found it to be an engrossing read.
I liked how the author seamlessly made the transitions between Loreena being sighted and blind. I also liked how Loreena took charge of a situation and didn't really feel sorry for herself and pushed on despite her blindness. She seemed to take charge of situations rather than the situation take charge of her. Despite the situation that she found herself in, she didn't really feel sorry for herself and tried to make best of the situation that she was in.
I liked how the author seamlessly made the transitions between Loreena being sighted and blind. I also liked how Loreena took charge of a situation and didn't really feel sorry for herself and pushed on despite her blindness. She seemed to take charge of situations rather than the situation take charge of her. Despite the situation that she found herself in, she didn't really feel sorry for herself and tried to make best of the situation that she was in.
July 18, 2016
I received a free copy of this book for an honest review.
What an amazing novel! I had difficulty putting Loreena's Gift down because it was so interesting. I wanted to know what was going to happen next.
Loreena has a gift, or curse, that she and her uncle use for good, to help terminally ill people go to the other side. When the head of a biker club finds out about her gift, he makes her choose to use her gift or lose her brother. She already believes she's killed two innocent people. Even if she can save herself and her brother, will she ever be able to get over killing others?
I really like Colleen M. Story's writing style. It's fast paced and the descriptions are very well done. The story is complex and has some twists. Her idea of what happens when we die is quite interesting.
I definitely recommend Loreena's Gift.
What an amazing novel! I had difficulty putting Loreena's Gift down because it was so interesting. I wanted to know what was going to happen next.
Loreena has a gift, or curse, that she and her uncle use for good, to help terminally ill people go to the other side. When the head of a biker club finds out about her gift, he makes her choose to use her gift or lose her brother. She already believes she's killed two innocent people. Even if she can save herself and her brother, will she ever be able to get over killing others?
I really like Colleen M. Story's writing style. It's fast paced and the descriptions are very well done. The story is complex and has some twists. Her idea of what happens when we die is quite interesting.
I definitely recommend Loreena's Gift.
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