Beyond Your Touch

The Dark Heart #2

by Pat Esden

She wants more than he can promise.His desires could lead to betrayal.But without each other, neither can survive the dangers ahead.  Annie Freemont knows this isn’t the right time to get involved with a man like Chase. After years of distrust, she’s finally drawing close to her estranged family, and he’s an employee on their estate in Maine. Though she never intended to stay on the estate for long, her father’s illness and the mysteries surrounding her family made leaving impossible. And now with the newfound hope of rescuing her long-missing mother, Annie’s determined to be involved with the family’s plans one way or another.  If only she could keep her mind off Chase and focus on the impending rescue. But there’s something about the enigmatic Chase that she can’t resist. And she’s not the only woman. Annie fears a seductive stranger who is key to safely freeing her mother is also obsessed with him. As plans transform into action and time for a treacherous journey into a strange world draws near, every move Annie makes will test the one bond she’s trusted with her secrets, her desires—and her heart.

Genres: Paranormal Romance, Paranormal, New Adult

304 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 1, 2016

About the author

Pat Esden would love to say she spent her childhood in intellectual pursuits. The truth is she was fonder of exploring abandoned houses and old cemeteries. When not out on her own adventures, she can be found in her Northern Vermont home writing about brave, smart women who are determined to protect the people and places they love. She is the author of the contemporary fantasy Dark Heart series, and the Northern Circle Coven series.

(I only review and rate books that I've enjoyed reading)

Reviews

[Mads · Rating 4 out of 5]

To the Author

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. I'm rating this book at four and a half stars.

I enjoyed the second book in the series a bit more than the first. There is less of a gothic feel to this novel and more of a mystery as Annie and Chase make preparations to rescue an important character from the djinn realm. Lotli, a young woman with the magic necessary to allow Chase and Annie to visit the djinn realm, enters the picture and makes trouble for the new lovers.

Mystery meets sizzling romance in the second book of the Dark Heart series. For those who enjoyed the first book, this one is a definite must-read.

[Dani (Dani Reviews Things) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

First off, if you haven't read the first book yet, check out my review of A Hold on Me to see why you should definitely read it!

I stand by what I said about the first book: this is a great New Adult paranormal series, one that I recommend to anyone who likes paranormal and a wants to try NA, or vice versa.

Again, Annie was flawed and made plenty of mistakes. Plenty. She was jealous and paranoid and let it get the best of her, but I could understand why. The one relationship she'd had before had resulted in the guy ditching her for someone else as soon as she'd slept with him. I still feel like, realistically, I would have probably done similar things to her. I know my own flaws!

I still love Chase and Selena (as much as she can annoy me). I liked how the younger generation banded together in this one, ready to work as a team. Also, I am quietly shipping Selena and Tibbs and hope she'll open her eyes to him soon...

The setting for most of the book was the same: creepy big house that's become less creepy and more like a museum/spy headquarters. However, a team does go into the djinn realm, which was really cool and equally disturbing. I liked how Esden took certain well-known "facts" about genies and twisted them, like how magic carpets don't actually fly.

The ending of this one killed me. How could you leave it like that, Esden?! Now I have to wait until July for the complete mess to hopefully be cleaned up. Actually, multiple messes, as a tiny side story has turned into something a lot bigger... AHHHH give me book 3 soon!!!

See this review in its natural environment, Dani Reviews Things.

You can find me on Twitter and Instagram.

[Terri · Rating 3 out of 5]

Review also found at http://kristineandterri.blogspot.ca/2...

I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher Kensington in exchange for an honest review. The expected publication date is August 30th, 2016.

This is the second book on the Dark Heart series. This can not be read as a stand alone. It is necessary to read the first story A Hold on Me first. Otherwise the reader would have no clue what was going on as this story continues on from the first one.

This series would be labeled as a mash up of NA meets paranormal although the NA portion is a bit tame compared to most. If you are not a fan of reading about genies and alternate dark worlds where the inhabitants are evil to the core than this would not be a good choice. If you are a fan, this may be exactly what you are looking for.

Although I have been off of the paranormal genre for a while, I was curious about this story as I wanted to see where the romance of Annie and Chase would lead. I was captivated by them from the first story and needed to find out if they would get their happy ending or not.

This story spends more time on the dark side than the first. As the synopsis suggest, it is all about trying to rescue Annie's mother and the romance is essentially set aside to accomplish this goal. Although I wanted more of Annie and Chase, I believe it will be available in the next instalment. With the way this story played out, there will be without a doubt a third story in the series.

While this story was entertaining and read much faster than the 320 pages, I was left a little wanting more. This may be intentional in order to draw the reader in to the third story. At this point I am more invested in what will happen to Annie and Chase than what will happen with Annie's mother. I will need to read the next story to find out!

[Beth Cato · Rating 4 out of 5]

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

Beyond Your Touch (out in September 2016) is in many ways a stronger book than its predecessor. A Hold On Me embodied very gothic overtones while building up a paranormal romance. In this second book, the romance between Annie and Chase is well established--with forthright depictions of a sexual relationship between young adults, with protection use and all. However, they must cool off their passions as they prepare for a foray across the veil to save Annie's mother, long held captive by Chase's cruel father. I was concerned at the build up of a love triangle with newcomer Lotli--I really don't like love triangles--but I was pleased that the plot didn't dwell on that for long, and I ended up really liking Lotli.

Esden's writing is strong. Annie is a relatable young woman contending with love, jealousy, and an inherent drive to save her mother. The tension really picks up as the book continues. This is a book to blaze through in a day or two. I found the mystery and adventure aspects to be stronger than the romance, but all of the elements blend well for a solid, fast read.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beyond Your Touch is a phenomenal sequel, taking the established world and characters from A Hold On Me and putting them into situations that test their resolve, their trust, and their friendships. I could NOT put this book down. Pat Esden's writing is lyrical and beautiful, creating an eerie yet nostalgic atmosphere. What I really loved and honestly appreciated was the refreshing and mature way Annie handles her relationship in this book, especially with things (spoilers, hence being vague). I CANNOT wait for the third and final book to see how this story ends because omg... this was so, so, so good. This series is hands-down one of my favorites in the new adult speculative fiction category/genre. 5 stars.

[Casey Griffin · Rating 5 out of 5]

With this second installment in the series, I loved to see the continuing development and growth of the main character, and the entire story seems to reflect that journey. It was fast-paced and hot, hot, hot! I love this world that Pat Esden has created for the reader, and I’m certain you’ll get sucked right in like I did! I highly recommend it!

[Liz Gavin · Rating 5 out of 5]

5*** Fast-paced, thrilling paranormal novel

** I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review**

I don’t write spoilers because I don’t like reading them so the following quote from Beyond Your Touch is intended to show a little of the high-quality of its writing. Pat Esden opens each chapter with a quote and this happens to be my favorite one:
“There is a border no eye can see, a place beyond my touch. But if I listen to the wind and sea, I hear your voice: A whisper in the sky, a catch in my breath, the ache in my hollow heart”.
If you haven’t read the book yet, the text doesn’t give away anything; but if you have, it’s full of meaning. Intrigued? You should be! This book is awesomely written and this is a tiny example of Pat Esden’s skills.
She creates believable and realistic characters to the point that some will annoy the heck out of you like was the case with both Annie and Serena for me. Granted, they’re quite young and I kept reminding myself of that; but they made me very angry sometimes. Serena can come off as a spoiled brat and Annie’s jealousy seemed a bit exaggerated for a one-month-long relationship. However, I know people her age with similar mindset so that’s the realistic part I mentioned before. LOL Being fifty allows me to see Annie’s and Serena’s flaws from a greatly different perspective than readers close to their age so my comments on their behavior should be taken with a grain of salt. On the other hand, Chase is a fascinating character in many aspects. Although still quite young, his upbringing under ruthless conditions in the djinn realm has given him a furiously loyal disposition, which is endearing. You can’t help but root for him and suffer with him. Believe me, you’ll do a lot of both.
As for setting and plot, the author does a great job with establishing a fast pace full of twists and turns. I particularly liked Annie’s dream sequences and her flashes of intuition. They’re insightful and it’s a pity she doesn’t listen to them. Also, the use of first-person POV from Annie’s perspective helps readers identify with her at the same time as it keeps us in the dark as to what’s really going on, which adds to the thrill and sense of mystery. I loved that. Finally, I liked that Pat Esden introduces key elements of the first book to readers who, like me, have started the series in its second installment. It’s possible to follow the action; but I’m sure I missed a lot on background story development. That’s why I recommend reading the first book in the series, which I intend to do.
Although there’s no conclusion to this story as it ends in a massive cliffhanger, we do see the outcome of the protagonists’ quest. I obviously won’t say what but technically speaking, there’s a final result. And even though the addition of the first chapter of book 3 at the end doesn’t give away much, it is quite tantalizing. It allows a quick glimpse into what’s to come and makes the reader salivate for the next installment.
I recommend this book for fans of extremely well-developed stories filled with paranormal elements wrapped in tons of deliciously elusive mysteries.

[Isabelle MBTL · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mysterious; thrilling; fast-paced!!!
 

I've loved Annie's growth. She has matured in this book. She is less involved with the mystery of her father, and is more invested in her family as a whole.
The romance has really grown in this book. I've really enjoy their relationship. Nothing like competition to spice it up a relationship.
This book is better  than book one. It's not as gothic, horror as the first, but more mysterious.
Really addictive. I could start book 3 right now!
I like the cover. I can see Annie and Chase.

 

*Warning* This book cannot be read as a stand-alone. To understand you need to read book 1 first.
There are still a lot to be explained, which the author probably left to be explored on book 3.
I still find this book a bit confusing sometimes with too many things going on, but I love the exploration of the djinn world, and the good X evil theme.

 

You MAY read this book because you have read book one, you SHOULD read this book if you enjoy paranormal world; you MUST read this if you want to be wowed!!!

This review was originally posted on More Books Than Livros

[Anniek · Rating 5 out of 5]

Annie Freemont lives in Maine together with her family. Her mother has been kidnapped a long time ago. Her kidnapper is a cruel man and she is held captive in another realm. Annie and her family are searching for a magical flute. There aren't many of them in the world. Even those who have a flute that opens the possibility to go across the veil have to find someone who can play its magical music. Annie and Chase find this person when they're exploring a museum. Annie knows that they need this stranger, but she isn't very happy with the attention this girl is giving Chase.

Chase has spent many years in the other realm, living under the cruel thumb of his father. When he was rescued he had to leave family and friends behind. There wasn't enough time for everyone to go through the veil before it closed again. Chase has had many nightmares caused by all the things that have happened. Together with Annie's family he is working on a way to go back and rescue as many people as he can. This of course especially includes Annie's mother. It won't be an easy task and Chase will need to do everything in his power to be at his best. He needs to train, because this will be one of the hardest quests he will ever have to undertake.

Annie and Chase are attracted to each other and they are exploring their new love. Annie is a young woman who is loyal, strong and confident. When searching for the necessities that will enable her to get her mother back Annie is resourceful and she makes smart decisions. Every now and then she gets jealous of the attention that Chase is giving the new girl and these feelings made Annie feel like a real person to me.

Chase is a man who is easy to love. He is strong, handsome and determined to achieve his goals. Chase had to endure a lot in his past and even though these events still haunt him, Chase isn't afraid to face his fears. Chase is dependable and he's always there for the people he loves. When he is laughing and temporarily forgets everything he went through, Chase shows who he could really be. Both Chase and Annie are very strong characters who have a great chemistry together.

Beyond Your Touch is an interesting story with plenty of mysteries. Every chapter begins with a quote, which adds something extra to the story. The quotes can even have hidden messages that tell the reader more about the story as a whole. I loved this extraordinary detail. Beyond Your Touch is a fast-paced story with great adventures. Because of the large number of twists and turns there is never a dull moment.

I do recommend to read the first book of the series before you start the second one. I didn't read the first book and this gave me a little bit of difficulty to fully get into the story in the beginning. Pat Esden explains more than enough throughout the chapters for you to understand the story, but it will be easier and more fun if you know how it all started. Dark Heart is a great series, which will definitely keep the reader's attention. Because of this book I now can't wait to read more books by Pat Esden.

[Darla Cain · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found Beyond Your Touch to be a wonderfully satisfying sequel to A Hold on You, which I also read and enjoyed. I very much enjoyed the main character, Annie. She is strong, intelligently written, and relatable—with a realistic amount of insecurity regarding her all-encompassing first love. I was very pleased that not too much of the plot lingered on the heroine (Annie) doubting the feelings of Chase, her lover, as sometimes happens in the second book in a trilogy. As expected, there were plot twists and a newcomer who brings doubt into Annie’s mind about her and Chase’s relationship, but fairly quickly Annie determines to take action. She doesn’t dwell in her insecurities long, which I found very refreshing. Sometimes I want to shake sense into YA/NA heroines, but didn’t feel this way about Annie at all. Her emotions felt real and well-founded and I was continually rooting for their relationship. And Chase is an ogle-worthy hero with loads of mystery, sympathy and appeal.

I especially love the pacing of the sequel. It’s a page-turner to be sure and I can’t wait to find out what happens in the series finale. The story seldom lingers in plotting or indecision long. I don’t often read gothic/paranormal romance and some of the mythical aspects were new to me (such as djinn realms), and this is my first series involving genies. At the start of book one, I was a bit intimidated that I wouldn’t be able to follow along, but Esden’s writing is strong, clear, and offers simple descriptions to engage readers of all genres.

I am sharing the series with my reader friends and they are very much enjoying the series as well. I highly recommend to anyone interested in NA love stories packed with mystery and action. I am a fan of Esden’s strong, clear, and descriptive writing and will read anything she writes.

I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Sara · Rating 4 out of 5]

4/5 Stars!
Book two starts where book 1 left off.
Annie is drawn to Chase, but she isn’t sure she can trust him. She is finally feeling comfortable around her family and Chase being their employee doesn’t make things easy. Plus, there’s a mysterious stranger that seems to want Chase for her own. The bigger problem, the stranger might hold the key to getting her mother back.
There are a lot of twists and secrets to this book. Whereas book one was mostly back story and character development, book two moves the story along and the action picks up a bit. I enjoyed the developing relationship between Annie and Chase.
Mysterious and a little steamy, Beyond Your Touch was a great follow up!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Fawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first book was fun and lighthearted with some dark undertones. This second book gets deep and dark. It grows right along with Annie as she is thrust into more grown up dealings. I found myself very angry and frustrated at times with some of the things happening. I wanted to give Annie a shake, and yell at anyone who would listen. She is young and trying very hard to cope with things out of her control. The story develops at a good speed and we discover new things here in the second book. Sorry gotta stop there, no spoilers. I am ready for the next in this series. Bring it on. I was given this story from Netgalley for an honest review and this is mine.

[Ruby Rice · Rating 5 out of 5]

I throughly enjoyed each paragraph of this book. After reading the first book I could hardly wait until I got my hands on this one and I was not disappointed. In fact, I enjoyed it even more than the first one because it took me to other realms with the ease necessary to make me a believer. Never before have I enjoyed "paranormal" writing. The way this mystery unfolds, with such loving attention to detail has me hooked. When, oh when will the third book be out?

[Jamie (Books and Ladders) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Disclaimer: I received an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Actual Rating: 3.5*

Full review to come tomorrow on Books and Ladders!

[Sheila Arel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book #2 of 3 for The Dark Heart Series really set me into the plot. I feel like I have known the characters all my life . I finished it a few days ago and jumped right into the final book in the series : Reach For You. The mystery of the plot has me just waiting to see if it ends as I hope it will. This genre is new for me . I am pleased I have got into it and that I purchased all 3 books at once so I did not have to wait to dive into the next one . I would read more by Pat Esden.

[Nicole Kelleher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it!
Pat Esden has that magical writing gift that casts a spell over her readers, making them want to turn page after page. It’s what happened to me when I was reading Beyond Your Touch—I looked at the clock and it was 2:30 in the morning.
I fell in love with her characters all over again, and can’t wait until Reach For You queues up in my to-be-read list.

[Shae · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this sequel very much! A great follow up to the first novel! I can't wait for the final installment!

[K.L. Hallam · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC for an honest review.

Beyond Your Touch (The Dark Heart, #2), leaves off where Annie Freemont did, in Chase’s arms, the Freemont family employee from their Maine estate. Her father’s illness and the mysterious disappearance of her long-lost mother holds her to this place. She’s determined to help in her mother’s rescue, no matter what. But a mysterious, and beautiful stranger, with a magical flute, has Annie questioning her intentions for helping Chase and her family, rescue her mother from the djinn realm.

Annie questions everything and everyone, and slips into doubts, doubts that could ruin the plan to rescue her mother. Surrounded by women who have certain magical powers, while Annie has, maybe her intuition, but it’s been failing her. She questions her allies. Before long she decides to change things, takes charge. Will it be enough to save Chase, help her mother, and the mysterious stranger she was sure had something going on with Chase?

I finished this book pretty quickly, once I dug in. The creativity the author weaves is quite magical. The djinn realm, the carpets, secret passageways with mixed messages, fun stuff and vividly drawn. The quotes above each chapter are “clues and hints about the characters motives and connections, and things to come,” adding to the mystery. “A glimpse behind the magical curtain.”

Open, Close. Warp and weave.
Who, what, where, and when.
Open the door. Close the door.
Wool into yarn into magic charm.
Warp, woof, and weave.

~~www.MagicOfDjinn
“The Carpet Weaver’s Song”

Beyond Your Touch, is a (NA) supernatural, mystery, forthcoming from Kensington Press, August 30, 2016.

[The Book Junkie Reads . . . · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mystery, suspense, intrigue, romance, deception, misdirection, illusions, and a bit of confusion. I did not read book one and must admit to having a few questions on things here and there.

I found the scenery vividly described and the characters scope wide. The relationship between Chase and Annie had deep connection. With the introduction of a new female more dynamic undertones the paranormal aspects picks up and intensify. Annie for me shows her strength, courage, and establishes her resolve. She did allow for doubts to linger for a long period of time. She took charge and did what she had to do. Her focus needed to be on the task at hand. Complications of a relationship and the added jealousy and twist was not needed.

I found much to enjoy about this read but felt that I did need to have book one under my belt before tackling this one. I felt like I missed a chapter or two. Walking in on the act was not endearing but did allow for me to find a series to follow more after attaining book one. I look forward to book three but I do recommend reading book one before jumping in to book two. You just don't know what doors were open before and need to be closed or opened again.
**This ARC was provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.**

[S S · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adored this follow up to the first book (A Hold on Me) in The Dark Heart series! Pat Esden did not disappoint in the second installment. In fact, she only drew me further into this story and its cast of pop-off-the page, amazingly flawed and perfectly lovely characters. In this book we get to dive deeper into both Annie and Chase's relationship (to say there are some serious sparks flying would be an understatement) and the legends and mysteries that hide beyond the veil (which was glorious... Esden literally build an entire other-world!). There's new adventure, new settings, and new, unforgettable characters! A definite must read! I'll be anxiously awaiting book 3.

[Jen McConnel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Esden creates a world where the paranormal seems perfectly normal, and it's a world you'll get lost in. This novel weaves mystery, magic, and romance together into one thrilling package; the perfect guilty-pleasure read!

[⊱ Poppy ⊰]

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am very much looking forward to the next book. This one left the readers wondering what will happen.

[poppy · Rating 4 out of 5]

this is a great second book in the series just cant wait for the third one should be read in order a great read

[K. Lincoln · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited by the release of the third book in this series I forgot I hadn't read the second one yet! So I plowed through "Beyond Your Touch" in record time.

It wasn't that hard to do, actually. This sequel is better than the first book. I feel like not only our heroine, Annie, but also the plot grew more mature in terms of being more active, full of layers, and dense with action.

Annie is still at Moonhill with cousins, aunt, and half-ifrit hottie, Chase. Her father is better, but her mother is still imprisoned in the realm of the djinn.

Her newfound family is on the hunt for flutes-- ancient flutes made of bone that can pierce the veil between our world and the djinn realm. While the men of the family are away in Europe, Annie and her cousin discover a girl with her own bone flute, and set things into motion that will leave us at the end of this second book eager for the third one (yes, there's a cliffhanger.)

Meanwhile, Annie and Chase's relationship has grown...er...quite mature. There's donut olympics and kissing, and stroking of pectorals, and....yeah. I'll leave that up to your imagination, but those scenes quite squarely put this book in the New Adult/Adult category despite the youngish status of the main group of characters.

What I love about this series is the layered details. Annie's the daughter of an antique dealer and that important part of her character is not forgotten in this installment, as well as cool info-bytes about ancient flutes, myths, etc.

But Esden has gotten sneaky on us, as well, creating an intriguing tapestry of quotes from various characters that heads each chapter-- a series of clues that bring a further layer of characterization to light as you read along.

Now on to the third one!

[Diane Tracy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pat is my new favorite author ! Loved the book !