Faeborne

Otherworld #7

by Jenna Elizabeth Johnson

Brennon Roarke is cursed. Stolen from his family at the age of sixteen and forced to use his glamour in the service of Eile's most malevolent goddess, Brenn has little room for warmth in his heart. For seven long years, he endured hardship and pain, only to escape and find his parents and sister murdered, his nephew left blind and broken. With the stain of dark magic on his soul, Brennon perseveres for the sake of his young ward, always worrying that one day the evil infecting his spirit will destroy him for good. Seren is an outcast among her own kind, ridiculed and ostracized by all but her mother. Born to the Fahndi tribe of the Weald, Seren's glamour allows her to transform into a deer, but it also grants her the power to heal grave wounds. When she reveals this gift to her peers, jealousy and hatred drive them to murder, forcing Seren to either flee or fall victim to their malice. Taking on her animal form, Seren leaves her old life behind hoping to find a safe haven in a world that has only ever offered her hardship. Despite being worlds apart, Seren and Brennon are brought together in a single life-altering moment. When the doe Brenn shoots turns into a young woman before his very eyes, he has no choice but to bring her home with the hope that she'll recover. What he doesn't realize, however, is that Seren is quite capable of healing herself with glamour that may be able to cure his wounds as well, and not only the ones that run skin deep."

Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Young Adult, Ebooks, Paranormal, Fae, Paranormal Romance

394 pages, Paperback

First published December 23, 2015

About the author

Fantasy Author. Swordswoman. Chicken Mama. These are just a few of the titles Jenna Elizabeth Johnson proudly goes by. She is the author of over a dozen novels, novellas, and short stories, including the award-winning Legend of Oescienne series, the Otherworld series, and the Draghans of Firiehn novella series.

Besides writing fantasy adventures featuring domineering dragons, headstrong heroines, brooding Celtic warriors, and all the magical creatures in between, she is a competitive HEMA (Historical European Martial Arts) practitioner, participating in longsword tournaments whenever she gets the chance.

During her down time, Jenna can be found exploring the open spaces of California’s Central Coast, camping in Yosemite National Park, reading books and webcomics, or hanging out with her flock of overly-affectionate lap chickens.

You can join Jenna’s readership at www.jennaelizabethjohnson.com.

Reviews

[Staci Black · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very deep and different perspective.

Seeing from eyes of one so timid yet full of strength. So much darkness surroundings all angles. Bound to such a fate. Difficult to read at some points so steeped in the suffering. Yet... could there be a brighter path.

[Ashley Martinez (ilovebooksandstuffblog) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dark and haunting. A wonderful emotional story of two tortured souls who discover what they were missing with each other. I really enjoyed the story and the characters as well. The story was beautiful full of darkness yet bright healing hope.

[Monica · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a bit slow but I loved the characters. Both have some tragedies in their lives. Seren is very unique and although timid at first I found her sweet and warm. Brenn has deep scars but loves his nephew Rory. He's a good man considering what he's been through. Hes drawn to Seren from the start but keeps his distance. Enjoyable for the most part except it was hard getting through it being slow and the constant POV changes. It was hard to keep straight and confusing. Otherwise it was pretty ok

[Kristine · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a captivating story that had me staying up late into the night to finish. The characters are intriguing and complex. I enjoyed getting to know these characters and follow along on their journey. There is something for everyone in this story from fantasy, mystery and romance. A great story, well worth reading.

[Nikki Bao · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brennon believes he is cursed. The Morrigan forced him to use his ability for evil. Seren is a deer shifter that's an outcast. She has a healing ability that no one else in her village has. After running away, she's shot by a Brennon. They fall for each other, but evil's near.

[Elizabeth Wood]

I like that this is a stand-alone. You can pick it up and read a new story without having to read all of the previous books. {although, that's exactly what I did ;)}

Seren is extremely timid and Brenn is gruff. It's a winning combination that makes sense as the story unfolds. If you like fantasy writing, then give this one a try. It keeps you entertained and riveted throughout.

[Literary Classics Book Awards & Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Following the death of his parents and sister, Brennon assumes the role of guardian for his blind nephew, Rori. The boy and his uncle, living a solitary existence, both ache for a life that once was. Brennon harbors guilt over his family’s death, the burden of which haunts him relentlessly. One day, while on a hunting expedition, he hits a deer, only to discover it is actually a changling. The deer morphs into a beautiful young woman, named Seren, and he offers to give her shelter over the winter to allow time for her to regain her strength.

As the story unfolds we are introduced to a skillfully layered tale of fantasy fiction. In what ultimately becomes a wonderful love story, Seren introduces a beauty and light into Brennon’s formerly dark and somber world. Author Jenna Elizabeth Johnson’s Faeborne is part of the Otherworld series, but reads well as a stand-alone. This book earns our recommendation and has received the Literary Classics Seal of Approval.

[Librarian Jessie (BibliophileRoses) · Rating 2 out of 5]

I do not wish to be rude to this author, as the penmanship was very good. However, this novel simply was not for me. It was hard to stay involved and focused throughout the novel. However, I am sure that others enjoy it with good reasoning.

[Ray Simmons · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Faeborne by Jenna Elisabeth Johnson. It is full of magic, romance, and mystery. Attention to detail is one of the key elements that can take a book from the so-so ranks and send it up the charts to bestseller. The attention to the details of this fabled mystical land is just one of the elements of a great book that Jenna Elisabeth Johnson does very well. Not only the details of magic and glamour but also the details of everyday life combine to draw us into Faeborne and compel us to keep reading. I honestly didn’t want to put it down. Another key component of any good book is the characters. Faeborne excels in this area also. Brennen, Seren, Rori, they all come to life. You care about their lives and what will happen to them. Without this element a book may still be good but with this element a book can be great. Faeborne is great.

My old drill sergeant used to always tell us new recruits “pain purifies”. These are characters with a lot of pain in their lives, characters who face a great foe and many personal hardships. This makes for a great story with a compelling plotline. Jenna Elisabeth Johnson makes a very smart creative choice by throwing in a lot of vocabulary with an archaic Gaelic feel. Just one more example of her mastery of the elements of successful fiction that draw you deep into Faeborne. There is no greater attraction to me than great characters facing a powerful foe. If you love romance, action, magic, and great writing, do yourself a favor and buy Faeborne today.

[Patricia · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Brennon is stolen from his family at the age of sixteen . He is made to use his glamour in service of an evil fae . He has been conditioned to keep away the evil . But there is goodness in him but it has been turned from seven long years of servitude. When he shoots a deer his life changes for the better cause that deer is more . Seren a special woman who can change into a deer but she also can heal . She is an outcast also . Together they find a way to help each other out and heal the wounds of the past.
Seren and Brenn are such well written characters , they are complex . Brenn is a broken man who is doing what needs to be done . He is cold and is doing to keep everything is ok. I feel he is more then the dread that is going on in his life . Seren is so sweet and kind but she is an outcast who is shunned by the people in her tribe. She is stronger then she believes . Brenn brings out her magic and she becomes stronger and more brave . They both really compliment each other and watching them together gives you a warm spot in your hot.
This is a book that you can sit down and start reading and then realize it is hours later and you are done . The author really creates an universe where you can be right in the middle o the action . You get to know the characters really well and fall for them . The author creates aw world full of magic and romance and on the edge of your seat action . I would say add this book to your summer reading list . If you love the fae world this is the book for you

[Breen · Rating 4 out of 5]

"The story started really slow. The first few chapters chapters I'd no clue of how things were going to be, not exactly a bad point but yet confusing and somehow boring but then the plot changed and things were growing up. The slow burn at first was worth for Brenn and Seren's story of heal but on a more romantic side the paced almost kill me. Have you seen k-dramas where the girl is so shy and takes ages before tbe main couple kiss and they're just awkard? It felt like that! The tension was so frustrating yet it had me hooked up. That first kiss was so special and Brenn made it even more perfect in a sweet way not 'almost burn my kindle' type. Did o mention how h*t his possessiveness was? Sorry, I had to say it. Anyway, it was a good story about romance but mostly healing two souls and it was beautifu."

[Betty · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 3rd book I've read by this author and I loved this one the best so far. She's an outstanding author and love the worlds she's created.
Brennon Roarke is a tortured soul who has suffered such tragedy and horrors in his life. He's trying to deal with his horrible nightmares and is also raising his nephew Rori. Rori is such a sweet, brave and loving boy despite his being blind.
Then Seren, an outcast from her clan, enters their lives. How I enjoyed how the relationship between the three of them progresses. Both Brennon and Seren have very powerful powers which come in very handy.
This is an amazing story with strong characters, and I especially fell in love with Rori. There's magic, angst and some very emotional moments along with suspense.
I highly recommend this book. If you enjoy this type of genre - you'll love it too.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book 9 in a series as it is a little confusing not knowing some of the back story, so I suggest reading them in order. I thought it dragged along a bit in the middle but after that I enjoyed the book. The connection between Rori and Brennon was touching, and I knew the closeness between them was real. I was surprised by the finding of Seren. Some of the descriptions were so well done , it was like being right there. In a land of of magic, dangers, evil and goodness, there are those that fight against those the evil and those who live in goodness. Will evil win and destroy any good, or will all find happiness in a world that evil is almost everywhere? This was an enjoyable read and I'm sure young adults will feel the same way

[Leanne · Rating 3 out of 5]

What a wonderful stand alone addition to The Otherworld Series! Reading this only deepened my love and understand for the world Jenna has created. It adds a valuable, different perspective, introducing a whole new group of characters, in a totally different part of Eile.

[Lori Hammons · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brennon and Seren's story is amazing. The main characters are well-developed, to the point I felt I knew them intimately. I like how the fae and gods are approached from an "everyday people" angle, but they're immortal. This made the book fascinating to me.

[zoying · Rating 4 out of 5]

brilliant world-building and descriptions. the story was beautiful. my only comment is that it felt a little rushed at the end and i would’ve loved to see what happened to them once they reached their destination!

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wonderful fantasy romance where good triumphs over evil. Clean, kisses only which is my preference.

[Deseret Baker · Rating 4 out of 5]

seems like a first book

I appreciated the effort the author made to never slide into erotica; however there was so much more telling than showing in this book.

[Nina Acosta · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was alright compared to what I have been reading.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good

I love this story. I enjoyed a lot. I love the characters as well. Would like to see if they reach their final destination.

[Kerliza Foon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Faeborne by Jenna Elizabeth Johnson is a tale of magic and romance. Brennon Roarke and Seren are Fae with rare glamour (magical abilities) that make them feared and envied by their peers. Brennon's mind control ability was brought to the attention of Morrigan, the goddess of war and strife, leading him to taken from his home and forced into slavery. He managed to escape but only in time to save his last remaining family member, his nephew Riordan 'Rori" O'Faolain.
Seren's grew up being bullied by other Fae children, for her late blooming abilities and even then, she kept her gift a secret. Until one day, deciding she has had enough, she reveals her gift and is almost murdered for it. She escapes, changing into a doe and running for her life. This causes her to cross paths with Brennon. Wary and mistrustful of each other, Brennon and Seren are brought together by fate and must learn to love and trust one another if they are ever to find peace and happiness. Can they do it? Or will their fear of others keep them apart?

This book was an interesting read. This book is a standalone book in the Other World series by Jenna Elizabeth Johnson. Although I have read other books mentioning Fae and the Tuatha Dé Danann (the tribes of the goddess Danu, Irish mythology), there were still some words that I was unfamiliar with. If you have not read any books with Fae, I suggest you look it up to at least familiarize yourself with the concepts before picking up this book. I am a big fan of reading novels in which the hero and heroine must overcome their past so that they can be together. This book had that and more. The family element also added another dimension to the story, giving the readers another aspect of the characters. This novel showcased true friendship and love. Despite the characters circumstances growing up, they managed to be kindhearted and respectful. I recommend this book to those who love to see characters rise up against their circumstances and change their expected outcomes.

[Autumn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having read Ms. Johnson's other work (and being a fan) I think this story is her most well written yet. It has a poeticness that reads throughout the book. The historical/celtic mythology feel and being in the Otherworld ties it to the rest of the series perfectly. But being an independent novel within the series you can read this without having ever read any of the other books and not feel like you've missed a beat. The story has a modern fairy tale quality that not only held my interest (I was up until 3:00 am last night reading) but enchanted me in a totally different way then any of her other work.

My favorite character was Seren. I love the combination of her back story mixed with her loving heart. She really seemed to move the story forward in exciting and interesting ways. I found it interesting that she was able to use her "gift" in totally different ways. I'm curious if we will be seeing her again in any other Otherworld stories.

I would rate this book PG12. I think it would be fine for any middle school student. There is action, and a little violence, but nothing I felt was overly graphic. There is also some romance in the book but you don't read about much more then some heavy kissing.

[Margaret · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have enjoyed Jenna Elizabeth Johnson's Otherworld Series very much. I love the Celtic world she paints, the in depth story and the interesting characters she creates. Faeborne brought me back into that world.
Brennon is a tortured soul who is dealing with his past while taking care of his nephew, Rori. Seren is an outcast of her kind and is still full of hope. I enjoyed the anticipation of Brennon and Seren's relationship. I loved Rori, his ability to move forward despite being blind. I was locked into this book from the beginning. Whether you've read the previous books in the series or are looking for an entertaining read, I think you would enjoy Faeborne.

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a beta reader for Ms. Johnson and a big fan of the Otherworld series. Though this book is the 9th installment, it has a separate story line with completely different characters in another part of Eilé. The main characters are both outcasts looking for someone to accept them as they are. Seren has unique gifts that make her a target. Brennan has terrible tragedy and loss in his life. Both are stronger than they think and find themselves and each other in the face of adversity. It is a lovely story and I hope we see more of these characters in future novels!

[Jacqueline Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing!

What an awesome book! As always the author sucks you in and leaves you wanting more! I loved the strong characters in this book.... One a man with a strong past filled with demons, a small child who's left blind by nasty ugly demonic humans and a woman with a very painful past, but is filled with life, love and a brightness that can heal. With heart wrenching moments... It's no wonder that this book has received an award!
Awesome job Miss Johnson!
I would defiantly recommend this book to any and all readers!
As always.... Happy reading!

[Ann-marie Morency · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book for a honest review. Seren is a outcast in her clan and is searching for acceptance, and love. She comes across Brennan and his nephew. And in the process help each other to fight the demons that haunt them. Can't wait to read another book in this series.