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Psy-Changeling #0.75
Susurro de Pecado
San Francisco, año 2072, Emmett, un cambiante y su clan de leopardos rescatan a Ria Wembley de las garras de un violador. Ria está bajo la protección del clan mientras luchan contra un mal que está destruyendo su amada ciudad. Emmett sabe que Ria es su compañera.
88 pages, ebook
First published August 3, 2010
176 people are currently reading
2322 people want to read
About the author
Nalini Singh
251 books26.7k followersI've been writing as long as I can remember and all of my stories always held a thread of romance (even when I was writing about a prince who could shoot lasers out of his eyes). I love creating unique characters, love giving them happy endings and I even love the voices in my head. There's no other job I would rather be doing. In September 2002, when I got the call that Silhouette Desire wanted to buy my first book, Desert Warrior, it was a dream come true. I hope to continue living the dream until I keel over of old age on my keyboard.
I was born in Fiji and raised in New Zealand. I also spent three years living and working in Japan, during which time I took the chance to travel around Asia. I’m back in New Zealand now, but I’m always plotting new trips. If you’d like to see some of my travel snapshots, have a look at the Travel Diary page (updated every month).
So far, I've worked as a lawyer, a librarian, a candy factory general hand, a bank temp and an English teacher and not necessarily in that order. Some might call that inconsistency but I call it grist for the writer's mill.
I was born in Fiji and raised in New Zealand. I also spent three years living and working in Japan, during which time I took the chance to travel around Asia. I’m back in New Zealand now, but I’m always plotting new trips. If you’d like to see some of my travel snapshots, have a look at the Travel Diary page (updated every month).
So far, I've worked as a lawyer, a librarian, a candy factory general hand, a bank temp and an English teacher and not necessarily in that order. Some might call that inconsistency but I call it grist for the writer's mill.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 404 reviews
December 12, 2018
Ria (human) and Emmett (Changeling, leopard)
“Stop acting like the big bad cat.”
A blink, and when he raised his lashes, the eyes that looked back at her were in no way human. “Mmm, I smell a pretty little human in my territory.” A soft whisper against her lips, bright green-gold eyes daring her to respond.
Emmett and Ria has taken a place in my heart as one of my favourite Changeling couples.
Although it is a fairly short novel, it is packed with passion, mystery and funny moments.
Ria's family was a joy to read. Especially her wise grandmother, Miaoling, made laugh out loud several times.
You also get to read about other favourite characters before they mated like Lucas and Dorian.
This story involves around the DarkRiver community, so no Psy side stories are included.
“Stop acting like the big bad cat.”
A blink, and when he raised his lashes, the eyes that looked back at her were in no way human. “Mmm, I smell a pretty little human in my territory.” A soft whisper against her lips, bright green-gold eyes daring her to respond.
Emmett and Ria has taken a place in my heart as one of my favourite Changeling couples.
Although it is a fairly short novel, it is packed with passion, mystery and funny moments.
Ria's family was a joy to read. Especially her wise grandmother, Miaoling, made laugh out loud several times.
You also get to read about other favourite characters before they mated like Lucas and Dorian.
This story involves around the DarkRiver community, so no Psy side stories are included.
May 30, 2018
2.75 stars
It wasn't a bad read, but somehow, I didn't enjoy it as much as I expected. I felt like there was something missing but still can't quite put my finger on it. Not my favorite from this series.
It wasn't a bad read, but somehow, I didn't enjoy it as much as I expected. I felt like there was something missing but still can't quite put my finger on it. Not my favorite from this series.
August 25, 2021
A cute quick read.
It makes me smile and is easy and light.
It makes me smile and is easy and light.
January 12, 2015
Rating: 2.5
Hmmm... So it seems the short stories in this series really are a lot more romance-oriented than the full-length novels. This one isn't as bad as Beat of Temptation but it still is too much for me.Too much sweetness, not enough kinkiness. I know this is PNR so sweetness is pretty much mandatory but I wish there would be more paranormal and less romance.
What I like about Psy-Changeling is the world building but it's virtually non-existent here. This is the second story I read in this series and I realize that what I really love about Psy-Changeling is the Psy and their world. There is a vague plot here about the DarkRiver Changelings claiming control of San Francisco and challenging the Psy's dominance but that's about it. Not a single Psy in sight:/
It's not that I disliked either Emmet or Ria, it's just I wasn't particularly interested in their story. It's not like sparks were flying between them either and the whole thing was pretty meh. The blurb describes Emmet as being possessive and dominant. Really? He seems like a diet alpha to me. Ria is a sweet girl but, well, I guess that's the problem, she's a sweet girl… "She has a few demands of her own" says the blurb. Well they must be very few because she sure didn't seem demanding at all to me… The only interesting element in their story is that he's a Changeling and she's human. Then again it's not a big part of the plot either.
Whisper of Sin is yet another disappointing short story in this series. I'll give Stroke of Enticement (book #3.5) a try but I'm guessing it will probably be too bunnies & rainbows for me…
Hmmm... So it seems the short stories in this series really are a lot more romance-oriented than the full-length novels. This one isn't as bad as Beat of Temptation but it still is too much for me.Too much sweetness, not enough kinkiness. I know this is PNR so sweetness is pretty much mandatory but I wish there would be more paranormal and less romance.
What I like about Psy-Changeling is the world building but it's virtually non-existent here. This is the second story I read in this series and I realize that what I really love about Psy-Changeling is the Psy and their world. There is a vague plot here about the DarkRiver Changelings claiming control of San Francisco and challenging the Psy's dominance but that's about it. Not a single Psy in sight:/
It's not that I disliked either Emmet or Ria, it's just I wasn't particularly interested in their story. It's not like sparks were flying between them either and the whole thing was pretty meh. The blurb describes Emmet as being possessive and dominant. Really? He seems like a diet alpha to me. Ria is a sweet girl but, well, I guess that's the problem, she's a sweet girl… "She has a few demands of her own" says the blurb. Well they must be very few because she sure didn't seem demanding at all to me… The only interesting element in their story is that he's a Changeling and she's human. Then again it's not a big part of the plot either.
Whisper of Sin is yet another disappointing short story in this series. I'll give Stroke of Enticement (book #3.5) a try but I'm guessing it will probably be too bunnies & rainbows for me…
August 2, 2021
Buddy read with Ange
Whisper of Sin was previously published in the Burning Up anthology and is also available as a separate ebook. The story is set before events in Slave to Sensation but to be honest I think you'll probably have more appreciation for the characters if you've already familiar with the world building so I would recommend reading at least one book first. Although I've read the whole series now I don't actually remember much about either Emmett or Ria, their names were vaguely familiar but they definitely haven't been major players in the series so it's a testament to Nalini Singh's writing that she was able to make me care so much about both of them in less than 90 pages!
Events take place at a time when the DarkRiver leopards are only just solidifying their claim over San Francisco, the Psy still think they are in charge but the leopards are definitely claiming territory and part of that claim comes a duty to protect the citizens who live within their boarders. Unfortunately a gang of human thugs seem determined to muscle in, something that DarkRiver will not stand for, not if they don't want to lose face and risk a territory dispute with other packs of predatory changelings. When human Ria is attacked on her way home she is rescued by Dorian and Emmett and the pack take her whole family under their protection. Emmett has more than Ria's safety on his mind though, he immediately recognises Ria as his mate and he will do whatever it takes to convince her to take a chance on him.
I thoroughly enjoyed this novella, Ria and Emmett's courtship is so sweet but I also love the fact that Ria is strong enough to stand up to Emmett and won't let him push her around even though he's obviously so much stronger than her. The banter between them was great but Ria's grandmother was absolutely hilarious and she made me giggle out loud more than once. The rest of Ria's family aren't so keen on Emmett to start with but he isn't the kind of guy to give up without a fight and it doesn't take him too long to win them around. This is a lovely little edition to the Psy-Changeling series and I'm sure fans will devour it.
Whisper of Sin was previously published in the Burning Up anthology and is also available as a separate ebook. The story is set before events in Slave to Sensation but to be honest I think you'll probably have more appreciation for the characters if you've already familiar with the world building so I would recommend reading at least one book first. Although I've read the whole series now I don't actually remember much about either Emmett or Ria, their names were vaguely familiar but they definitely haven't been major players in the series so it's a testament to Nalini Singh's writing that she was able to make me care so much about both of them in less than 90 pages!
Events take place at a time when the DarkRiver leopards are only just solidifying their claim over San Francisco, the Psy still think they are in charge but the leopards are definitely claiming territory and part of that claim comes a duty to protect the citizens who live within their boarders. Unfortunately a gang of human thugs seem determined to muscle in, something that DarkRiver will not stand for, not if they don't want to lose face and risk a territory dispute with other packs of predatory changelings. When human Ria is attacked on her way home she is rescued by Dorian and Emmett and the pack take her whole family under their protection. Emmett has more than Ria's safety on his mind though, he immediately recognises Ria as his mate and he will do whatever it takes to convince her to take a chance on him.
I thoroughly enjoyed this novella, Ria and Emmett's courtship is so sweet but I also love the fact that Ria is strong enough to stand up to Emmett and won't let him push her around even though he's obviously so much stronger than her. The banter between them was great but Ria's grandmother was absolutely hilarious and she made me giggle out loud more than once. The rest of Ria's family aren't so keen on Emmett to start with but he isn't the kind of guy to give up without a fight and it doesn't take him too long to win them around. This is a lovely little edition to the Psy-Changeling series and I'm sure fans will devour it.
September 25, 2015
What was I thinking? I know better than to read the prequel to a series before reading the first book! This was a rookie move!
But, I also know better than judging a series by a short novella, so this book won't deter me from starting book one (which all of my friends rated 4's & 5's).
This story was boring, too cutsie, and had a massive amount of insta-love.
But, I also know better than judging a series by a short novella, so this book won't deter me from starting book one (which all of my friends rated 4's & 5's).
This story was boring, too cutsie, and had a massive amount of insta-love.
January 1, 2022
Reread on December 31, 2021: What if I didn't read new books in 2022 and just reread comforting faves?
Reread on April 14, 2019: I could read a million Psy Changeling novellas and I’d still want more.
Reread on April 14, 2019: I could read a million Psy Changeling novellas and I’d still want more.
January 1, 2022
4 stars
Ria and Emmett were everything!
Ria’s grandmother, the best!
Ria and Emmett were everything!
Ria’s grandmother, the best!
July 5, 2021
How have I missed this sweet little story?! It was super quick and very insta-lovey, but Ria was strong and fun, Emmet was passionate and hot - so what's not to like?
April 23, 2023
1st read: May 2020
2nd read: September 2020
This was still cute, but I didn't enjoy it as much as the first read.
********************
Original review:
This novella is adorable. I like pretty much everything about it.
2nd read: September 2020
This was still cute, but I didn't enjoy it as much as the first read.
********************
Original review:
This novella is adorable. I like pretty much everything about it.
October 28, 2021
This was slightly better than the first prequel novella but definitely fell victim to some of the more tragic and (probably) dated tropey bits. I liked that we have already branched into human/changeling relations and had that explained, that it's not taboo or anything, and I enjoyed some of Ria's family dynamics but the whole arranged marriage bit.. that seemed rather forced, all things considered.
We've had two virgin lady love interests back to back. Please tell me this isn't a formula we get to see more of.
Also still struggling a bit with the world though this definitely fleshed it out more and I have a better understanding of some hierarchy at least. But like.. are changelings only leopards? Or that's just what this particular area is populated with? I imagine I'll find out but this is why I say the world feels a tiny bit hazy.
I think ultimately, despite this chronological order suggestion, these probably would've meant more after a few full length novels once we had been introduced to, what I imagine are, the main cast and I could go back to learn their origin stories or whatever. Too late now! I have one more little short and then it's on to book one.
We've had two virgin lady love interests back to back. Please tell me this isn't a formula we get to see more of.
Also still struggling a bit with the world though this definitely fleshed it out more and I have a better understanding of some hierarchy at least. But like.. are changelings only leopards? Or that's just what this particular area is populated with? I imagine I'll find out but this is why I say the world feels a tiny bit hazy.
I think ultimately, despite this chronological order suggestion, these probably would've meant more after a few full length novels once we had been introduced to, what I imagine are, the main cast and I could go back to learn their origin stories or whatever. Too late now! I have one more little short and then it's on to book one.
June 23, 2020
I forgot how much I adore this novella :) 5 stars :) even for such a short story, I liked how the romance progressed... was it fast? yes, but with changelings I don't mind it that much :) especially since it's usually very well developed beyond that first attraction ;) I'm already in the middle of the next book, the first full length novel and I am very deep in my feels about this series :) starting my reread of all those stories was one of the best decisions I made recently :)
disclaimer
until further notice, I will be adding this little disclaimer at the end of all my reviews… without boring you with unnecessary details I will say this… I’ve been in a writing slump for a while now… it’s happened before, but usually didn’t last very long… it’s connected to a lot of different things in my life, but all those details are personal so I won’t get into them right now… this time unfortunately it’s been already six weeks and it doesn't look like it’s gonna change anytime soon… in all this time I was unable to sit down and write reviews for the books I’ve been reading… and I don’t want to wait any longer, cause I already accumulated quite a few to do… so going forward I will be just writing a very short ones… with maybe an exception here and there if I feel like it ;) I don't want to put pressure on myself to write long and detailed reviews that I used to do for the longest time… instead I will try and add some links to other reviews here on Goodreads if I see ones that I feel share my thoughts and opinions on the stories I read… in the meantime I wish you all happy reading :)
XOXO
A
disclaimer
until further notice, I will be adding this little disclaimer at the end of all my reviews… without boring you with unnecessary details I will say this… I’ve been in a writing slump for a while now… it’s happened before, but usually didn’t last very long… it’s connected to a lot of different things in my life, but all those details are personal so I won’t get into them right now… this time unfortunately it’s been already six weeks and it doesn't look like it’s gonna change anytime soon… in all this time I was unable to sit down and write reviews for the books I’ve been reading… and I don’t want to wait any longer, cause I already accumulated quite a few to do… so going forward I will be just writing a very short ones… with maybe an exception here and there if I feel like it ;) I don't want to put pressure on myself to write long and detailed reviews that I used to do for the longest time… instead I will try and add some links to other reviews here on Goodreads if I see ones that I feel share my thoughts and opinions on the stories I read… in the meantime I wish you all happy reading :)
XOXO
A
August 1, 2025
Una noche que debía ser tranquila Ria sufre un ataque horrible por parte de un delincuente, por suerte un cambiaformas estaba ahí y puedo evitar y salvar a Ria, ahora el quiere ser su guardaespaldas hasta que todo esto se calme, pero hay un algo entre ellos que con cada día se va haciendo más difícil de ignorar.
En esta relectura me había olvidado de este libro así que termino siendo un 1.5, igual no afecta en que orden se lea, creo que más bien para conocer el mundo de los cambiantes, es muy corta pero linda, intensa también podría describirlo, Emmett sabe que Ria es su pareja y hace todo lo que está en sus manos para cuidarla y la va seduciendo en el proceso y a Ria le encanta, Jajaja.
No tengo mucho que decir, fue una lectora muy rápida y adictiva.
13/02/22
No pude resistirme y empece esta saga, veamos que tal va 🙈
En esta relectura me había olvidado de este libro así que termino siendo un 1.5, igual no afecta en que orden se lea, creo que más bien para conocer el mundo de los cambiantes, es muy corta pero linda, intensa también podría describirlo, Emmett sabe que Ria es su pareja y hace todo lo que está en sus manos para cuidarla y la va seduciendo en el proceso y a Ria le encanta, Jajaja.
No tengo mucho que decir, fue una lectora muy rápida y adictiva.
13/02/22
No pude resistirme y empece esta saga, veamos que tal va 🙈
April 29, 2018
Ahora que ya no tengo otro libro más que leer de la serie y no la quiero soltar me pondré con las novelas cortas.
Esta es la de Emmet y Ria, tenía ganas de leer como se conocieron y se enamoraron porque en los libros Ria es bastante especial, además que ya vemos su relación consolidada.
A pesar de que es corta me gustó y Emmet tan adorable como todos los leopardos Ria y él hacen una pareja genial.
Esta es la de Emmet y Ria, tenía ganas de leer como se conocieron y se enamoraron porque en los libros Ria es bastante especial, además que ya vemos su relación consolidada.
A pesar de que es corta me gustó y Emmet tan adorable como todos los leopardos Ria y él hacen una pareja genial.
July 7, 2015
2.5 - 3 Stars
I was less than impressed with this, quite honestly.
The writing was flawless Singh, of course, but the story just didn't pack the same punch as some of her other novellas, e.g., Beat of Temptation (Tamsyn/Nate's book and my FAVORITE Psy-Changeling novella) and Declaration of Courtship (perhaps runner up to Beat).
Oh well, a decent addition to the series, but definitely not a must read in my opinion.
I was less than impressed with this, quite honestly.
The writing was flawless Singh, of course, but the story just didn't pack the same punch as some of her other novellas, e.g., Beat of Temptation (Tamsyn/Nate's book and my FAVORITE Psy-Changeling novella) and Declaration of Courtship (perhaps runner up to Beat).
Oh well, a decent addition to the series, but definitely not a must read in my opinion.
August 8, 2016
This was great, cute, short and a quick read. It also had a lot of humor.
I love reading short stories like this! I also loved Emmett and Ria together.
But there wasn't really much about Psy's, in my opinion. Still loved this one though.
I love reading short stories like this! I also loved Emmett and Ria together.
But there wasn't really much about Psy's, in my opinion. Still loved this one though.
January 8, 2017
*2'5/5*
August 17, 2023
Emmett is a DarkRiver soldier who rushes to rescue a damsel in distress. Said damsel, Ria, proves to be a handful and the leopard changelling finds in her the woman of his dreams. I loved the fact that Ria is just human and her family has long ties in the area of San Fransisco. It proves that there are no concrete boundaries between species and that makes the stories more interesting. I loved Ria's grand mother, she was so funny.
March 19, 2023
Buddy read with Sarah
I read this originally when it first came out in the Burning Up anthology and, as always, adored any time that we get to spend within the Psy/Changeling world.
This novella takes us back and shows how DarkRiver began to exert it's claim on San Francisco, slowly - and more importantly, subtly - eroding the control of the Psy. When Ria's attacked one night on her way home because her family refused to pay the protection money of a new gang in town, Emmett steps up. After he and Dorian rescue her while on their patrols, it's clear that DarkRiver's right to hold the city is being threatened. If they don't take care of the gang, and soon, they'll lose their right and other predatory changelings can come in, trying to take over.
Ria thinks that's all Emmett wants to be close to her for - to protect her. But he has far more delicious thoughts in mind.
I enjoyed the banter between them, the progression of their relationship, and the fact that Ria stands up to Emmett - not letting him run all over her. Emmett, for his part, is eminently sweet.
I also really love the way Nalini Singh slides in little tidbits on how the relationships work between Humans and Changelings (or Psy and Changelings, Psy/Human, etc) - things like perfume, or how to have private conversations. Small details that make everything seem so much more real.
Nalini Singh is one of the few authors that I have consistently trusted to provide me with a fun, romantic, and sexy novella. This is no exception to that rule.
I read this originally when it first came out in the Burning Up anthology and, as always, adored any time that we get to spend within the Psy/Changeling world.
This novella takes us back and shows how DarkRiver began to exert it's claim on San Francisco, slowly - and more importantly, subtly - eroding the control of the Psy. When Ria's attacked one night on her way home because her family refused to pay the protection money of a new gang in town, Emmett steps up. After he and Dorian rescue her while on their patrols, it's clear that DarkRiver's right to hold the city is being threatened. If they don't take care of the gang, and soon, they'll lose their right and other predatory changelings can come in, trying to take over.
Ria thinks that's all Emmett wants to be close to her for - to protect her. But he has far more delicious thoughts in mind.
I enjoyed the banter between them, the progression of their relationship, and the fact that Ria stands up to Emmett - not letting him run all over her. Emmett, for his part, is eminently sweet.
I also really love the way Nalini Singh slides in little tidbits on how the relationships work between Humans and Changelings (or Psy and Changelings, Psy/Human, etc) - things like perfume, or how to have private conversations. Small details that make everything seem so much more real.
Nalini Singh is one of the few authors that I have consistently trusted to provide me with a fun, romantic, and sexy novella. This is no exception to that rule.
November 6, 2016
A bit longer than her other short stories from this series, but really interesting, sweet and so very HOT
Emmett and Ria were great, had chemistry like crazy, I'd say more than some of her couples from the "real" Psy books. The story starts after someone attacked and tried to rape Ria. Emmett and Dorian saved her, and Emmett took upon himself to take care of her and protect her from further attacks. So, him being her bodyguard of sorts, they spend a lot of time together and of course it all goes in the direction of him climbing the wall of her house to get into her room in the night
And may I repeat, they were very hot
Emmett and Ria were great, had chemistry like crazy, I'd say more than some of her couples from the "real" Psy books. The story starts after someone attacked and tried to rape Ria. Emmett and Dorian saved her, and Emmett took upon himself to take care of her and protect her from further attacks. So, him being her bodyguard of sorts, they spend a lot of time together and of course it all goes in the direction of him climbing the wall of her house to get into her room in the night
And may I repeat, they were very hot
March 24, 2024
4.5 Stars
This is my 2nd time reading this story and I loved it. The 1st time I read it I only liked it.
It's a short story about Ria and Emmet. How they met etc.
It's fast paced and flows smoothly.
Both mc's are sweet and lovable.
The steamy scene, when it comes, is hot and intimate and just full of love. You can really feel their connection to each other in that scene and throughout the story.
You can find this story in the Burning Up
anthology.
This is my 2nd time reading this story and I loved it. The 1st time I read it I only liked it.
It's a short story about Ria and Emmet. How they met etc.
It's fast paced and flows smoothly.
Both mc's are sweet and lovable.
The steamy scene, when it comes, is hot and intimate and just full of love. You can really feel their connection to each other in that scene and throughout the story.
You can find this story in the Burning Up
anthology.
August 14, 2017
Solo he leido el primer libro de esta serie y dos novelas cortas pero estoy encantada con estas historias, generalmente cuando una saga tiene novelas " intermedias " no son demasiado complejas, por eso estoy gratamente sorprendida con estas lecturas, ya que estan bien escritas y tienen un buen desarrollo.
En esta ocasion conocemos mas en profundidad a Emmett y Ria, personajes que son nombrados brevemente en el primer libro y aunque su relacion es un poco rapida, a mi me gusto mas de lo que esperaba.
Ahora a por el segundo, tengo muchas ganas de conocer a Vaughn.
2.5 Estrellas!
May 27, 2016
Reread
July 23, 2020
Ria und Emmett gehören mit zu meinen Lieblingsnebenpärchen der Gestaltwandler-Reihe und ich habe mich echt gefreut, endlich über diesen Kurzroman zu stolpern, der ihre Geschichte erzählt. Kurz und knackig wird das Kennenlernen und Verlieben der beiden beleuchtet und man lernt schon einige der späteren Hauptcharaktere in den Hauptbänden der Reihe kennen, Lucas und Dorian zum Beispiel.
Wunderschöne Geschichte, die ich definitiv nicht zum letzten Mal gelesen habe.
Wunderschöne Geschichte, die ich definitiv nicht zum letzten Mal gelesen habe.
April 19, 2019
Recensione Inedito
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Recensione in ANTEPRIMA
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4.5 - Voto
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“Emmett nascose un sorriso nel suo tè al gelsomino. Il suo udito da leopardo era accentuato. Riusciva a sentire tutto ciò che la nonna di Ria stava dicendo e dannazione se non era già innamorato della signora. Non sorprendeva che il nonno di Ria l’avesse sposata. Alzando lo sguardo colse l’espressione di Alex, mentre suo marito la abbracciava. Tutta la sua furia messa da parte, Alex era veramente preoccupata per Ria. “Nessuno farà del male a vostra figlia di nuovo,” disse tranquillamente, alzandosi in piedi. Lo guardarono tutti per lunghi minuti, finché finalmente Simon, il padre di Ria, annuì. Ma quando parlò, fu per dire, “Non è per te. È già impegnata.” Emmett sollevò un sopracciglio. “Non indossa anelli.” E se qualche imbecille era stato abbastanza stupido da non reclamarla quando ne aveva avuto la possibilità, allora non era un problema di Emmett. “Lo avrà,” disse Simon. “Siamo amici con la famiglia di Tom, i Clark, da anni. La proposta di matrimonio è una formalità.” Emmett riusciva a sentire Ria e sua nonna persino ora ridere nel bagno. Nessuna di loro aveva menzionato questo Tom nella loro discussione sull’utilizzo delle parti femminili.”
Oggi, Fenici, voglio parlarvi di una novella davvero molto carina: Whisper Of Sing. Fa da prequel alla serie Psy/Changeling di Nalini Singh, che purtroppo per noi nessuna casa editrice ha pensato di tradurre. Si colloca prima della storia di Lucas con la Spy Sascha Duncan, e ci permette di vedere l’inizio del rapporto fra l’assistente di Lucas e il suo compagno Emmett.
San Francisco sta subendo l’attacco di una famiglia criminale che la stampa ha ribattezzato “V”, mentre gli Spy, che dovrebbero vigilare sulla città, sembrano voler ignorare gli scontri e i ricatti alla popolazione umana e Changeling. Il Clan dei mutaforme DarkRiver, che da tempo vi è insidiato, è deciso ad annientarli. Per questa ragione, i membri del branco di Lucas pattugliano le strade della metropoli, ed è proprio durante una di queste ricognizioni che avviene il salvataggio di Ria, una giovane donna molto combattiva. I “V” l’hanno presa di mira per dare una lezione alla madre che non vuole sottostare alle loro intimidazioni e dimostrare alla popolazione di poter agire impuniti. L’intervento della pattuglia di Emmett impedisce loro di farle del male. Fin dal primo momento in cui la prende fra le braccia, confusa e ferita, l’uomo capisce di trovarsi di fronte alla sua compagna, e conta molto poco che la ragazza abbia già un fidanzato; il leopardo che è in lui sa che farà qualsiasi cosa per proteggerla e farla sua. La necessità di rimanerle al fianco per trovare il capo dei ”V”, è l’occasione buona per fare in modo che la giovane si renda conto che lui è il suo destino; in questa sua missione viene aiutato da una stravagante e meravigliosa nonna che fin dal primo momento parteggerà per lui.
Pur se breve, questa storia riesce a essere interessante: ci presenta personaggi davvero intriganti e meravigliosi. Ria infatti ha una famiglia davvero particolare, che vi strapperà qualche risata, ma è la sua incredibile e stupefacente nonna che vi lascerà senza parole. È da lei che Ria ha preso il suo carattere tutt’altro che docile. Da tempo ha capito che il fidanzato impostole non è innamorato di lei, ed è decisa a non permettere che il fidanzamento prosegua. A frenarla, solo la certezza del dolore che avrebbe provocato ai suoi genitori che l’amano teneramente, ed erano convinti di agire per il meglio. Emmett la intriga, ma la sua ignoranza del mondo Changeling la rende insicura e non crede che possa avere una relazione stabile con lui, pur cedendo alle lusinghe di un uomo protettivo e affascinante come Emmett. Specialmente quando si rende conto che, al contrario dei genitori e del loro modo soffocante di amarla e volerla tutelare a ogni costo, lui è disposto a insegnarle a difendersi e ad aiutarla a trovare un lavoro, confidando nel suo buonsenso e nella sua capacità di gestire la sua vita. Benché le scene erotiche siano poco dettagliate, la Nalini riesce a infondere sensualità e passione e per il lettore è facile innamorarsi di questa coppia davvero carina.
Se avete letto i libri della serie, questa è l’occasione per conoscere meglio questi due personaggi che troveremo anche nei romanzi seguenti, mentre se non la conoscete, potete farvi una piccola idea di questo mondo così straordinario e dare una sbirciata al fascinoso Lucas prima del suo incontro con la Psy che gli farà perdere il cuore. Deliziosa e intrigante, una lettura più che piacevole per una serie bellissima e unica, e purtroppo per noi, come spesso capita, inedita.
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Lucia63 - per RFS
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Recensione in ANTEPRIMA
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4.5 - Voto
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“Emmett nascose un sorriso nel suo tè al gelsomino. Il suo udito da leopardo era accentuato. Riusciva a sentire tutto ciò che la nonna di Ria stava dicendo e dannazione se non era già innamorato della signora. Non sorprendeva che il nonno di Ria l’avesse sposata. Alzando lo sguardo colse l’espressione di Alex, mentre suo marito la abbracciava. Tutta la sua furia messa da parte, Alex era veramente preoccupata per Ria. “Nessuno farà del male a vostra figlia di nuovo,” disse tranquillamente, alzandosi in piedi. Lo guardarono tutti per lunghi minuti, finché finalmente Simon, il padre di Ria, annuì. Ma quando parlò, fu per dire, “Non è per te. È già impegnata.” Emmett sollevò un sopracciglio. “Non indossa anelli.” E se qualche imbecille era stato abbastanza stupido da non reclamarla quando ne aveva avuto la possibilità, allora non era un problema di Emmett. “Lo avrà,” disse Simon. “Siamo amici con la famiglia di Tom, i Clark, da anni. La proposta di matrimonio è una formalità.” Emmett riusciva a sentire Ria e sua nonna persino ora ridere nel bagno. Nessuna di loro aveva menzionato questo Tom nella loro discussione sull’utilizzo delle parti femminili.”
Oggi, Fenici, voglio parlarvi di una novella davvero molto carina: Whisper Of Sing. Fa da prequel alla serie Psy/Changeling di Nalini Singh, che purtroppo per noi nessuna casa editrice ha pensato di tradurre. Si colloca prima della storia di Lucas con la Spy Sascha Duncan, e ci permette di vedere l’inizio del rapporto fra l’assistente di Lucas e il suo compagno Emmett.
San Francisco sta subendo l’attacco di una famiglia criminale che la stampa ha ribattezzato “V”, mentre gli Spy, che dovrebbero vigilare sulla città, sembrano voler ignorare gli scontri e i ricatti alla popolazione umana e Changeling. Il Clan dei mutaforme DarkRiver, che da tempo vi è insidiato, è deciso ad annientarli. Per questa ragione, i membri del branco di Lucas pattugliano le strade della metropoli, ed è proprio durante una di queste ricognizioni che avviene il salvataggio di Ria, una giovane donna molto combattiva. I “V” l’hanno presa di mira per dare una lezione alla madre che non vuole sottostare alle loro intimidazioni e dimostrare alla popolazione di poter agire impuniti. L’intervento della pattuglia di Emmett impedisce loro di farle del male. Fin dal primo momento in cui la prende fra le braccia, confusa e ferita, l’uomo capisce di trovarsi di fronte alla sua compagna, e conta molto poco che la ragazza abbia già un fidanzato; il leopardo che è in lui sa che farà qualsiasi cosa per proteggerla e farla sua. La necessità di rimanerle al fianco per trovare il capo dei ”V”, è l’occasione buona per fare in modo che la giovane si renda conto che lui è il suo destino; in questa sua missione viene aiutato da una stravagante e meravigliosa nonna che fin dal primo momento parteggerà per lui.
Pur se breve, questa storia riesce a essere interessante: ci presenta personaggi davvero intriganti e meravigliosi. Ria infatti ha una famiglia davvero particolare, che vi strapperà qualche risata, ma è la sua incredibile e stupefacente nonna che vi lascerà senza parole. È da lei che Ria ha preso il suo carattere tutt’altro che docile. Da tempo ha capito che il fidanzato impostole non è innamorato di lei, ed è decisa a non permettere che il fidanzamento prosegua. A frenarla, solo la certezza del dolore che avrebbe provocato ai suoi genitori che l’amano teneramente, ed erano convinti di agire per il meglio. Emmett la intriga, ma la sua ignoranza del mondo Changeling la rende insicura e non crede che possa avere una relazione stabile con lui, pur cedendo alle lusinghe di un uomo protettivo e affascinante come Emmett. Specialmente quando si rende conto che, al contrario dei genitori e del loro modo soffocante di amarla e volerla tutelare a ogni costo, lui è disposto a insegnarle a difendersi e ad aiutarla a trovare un lavoro, confidando nel suo buonsenso e nella sua capacità di gestire la sua vita. Benché le scene erotiche siano poco dettagliate, la Nalini riesce a infondere sensualità e passione e per il lettore è facile innamorarsi di questa coppia davvero carina.
Se avete letto i libri della serie, questa è l’occasione per conoscere meglio questi due personaggi che troveremo anche nei romanzi seguenti, mentre se non la conoscete, potete farvi una piccola idea di questo mondo così straordinario e dare una sbirciata al fascinoso Lucas prima del suo incontro con la Psy che gli farà perdere il cuore. Deliziosa e intrigante, una lettura più che piacevole per una serie bellissima e unica, e purtroppo per noi, come spesso capita, inedita.
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Lucia63 - per RFS
August 26, 2018
Reviewed for THC Reviews
Whisper of Sin is a Psy/Changeling novella that falls between the prequel novella “Beat of Temptation” and the first full-length novel, Slave to Sensation, in the series chronology. It’s the story of Emmett and Ria, who my foggy memory seems to recall may have been in Slave to Sensation. Emmett is a soldier for the DarkRiver pack and an engineer for DarkRiver Construction. Ria is just finishing up college classes and looking for her first real job outside of her family’s store, and eventually finds employment as Lucas’s administrative assistant at DarkRiver Construction. Ria’s family is being shaken down for protection money by a gang that’s moved into DarkRiver territory in San Francisco. On her way home one night, she’s brutally attacked by their goons who assault and nearly rape her before Emmett and other pack members come to her aid. Feeling guilty that a lady was harmed on his watch, Emmett sets up a protection detail for Ria and her family, and assigns himself the task of being her personal bodyguard. Although Ria’s overprotective family is trying to steer her into an arranged marriage, she has no interest in the guy they’re pushing on her, while Emmett holds all kinds of attraction for her. While Emmett and the pack investigate and work to eliminate the gang, things heat up between him and Ria.
For its short length, Whisper of Sin was a pretty good novella. I generally liked both Emmett and Ria. I like the way Emmett comforts Ria following the attack and can’t seem to let her go. With their inner beast in play, the male Changelings in this series tend to be pretty intensely alpha, which doesn’t always work well for me. I thought that maybe Emmett came on just a tad too strong, too soon, given that Ria was so recently attacked, but otherwise, I liked him and felt that he found a decent balance between being protective and possessive of his woman and having gentler moments, too. Ria is a little spitfire, who can be rather temperamental at times, but not to the point that she was irritating. She still lives at home with her family, which I think is mainly a product of her Asian heritage. But that doesn’t stop her from standing up for herself and seeking her independence. Due to the shortness of the story, Emmett and Ria’s relationship does develop very quickly, almost a little too quickly to be entirely believable even with Emmett’s animal mating nature in play. I struggled a bit to put my finger on exactly what drew them to each other and made them fall in love, although I’ll admit that I felt a connection between them during the intimate scenes.
There are several common Changeling characters who pop up during the story including Lucas (Slave to Sensation), Tamsyn and Nate (“Beat of Temptation”), Dorian (Hostage to Pleasure), and Clay (Mine to Possess). I also enjoyed Ria’s family, particularly her grandmother, who despite their overprotectiveness are good people who really care about her. The writing was generally good with my only small issue being that the author has a penchant for using short phrases in place of full sentences (eg. “A small wicked smile.” instead of He gave her a small wicked smile. Or “Another kiss before he straightened.” instead of He kissed her again before he straightened.) These are peppered throughout the narrative. I can’t recall if Nalini Singh commonly did this in her other stories I read or not, but it kind of annoyed me here because IMHO, writing this way both makes the narrative passive rather than active and it feels lazy, as though the author couldn’t be bothered to form complete sentences. Also while Emmett does use his cat senses to investigate, he never shifts, which was just a tad disappointing. Otherwise, though, I didn’t have any major problems with the story, so overall this was a good novella and a nice addition to the series. Whisper of Sin was originally published in the multi-author anthology Burning Up and was later reprinted as a stand-alone ebook.
Whisper of Sin is a Psy/Changeling novella that falls between the prequel novella “Beat of Temptation” and the first full-length novel, Slave to Sensation, in the series chronology. It’s the story of Emmett and Ria, who my foggy memory seems to recall may have been in Slave to Sensation. Emmett is a soldier for the DarkRiver pack and an engineer for DarkRiver Construction. Ria is just finishing up college classes and looking for her first real job outside of her family’s store, and eventually finds employment as Lucas’s administrative assistant at DarkRiver Construction. Ria’s family is being shaken down for protection money by a gang that’s moved into DarkRiver territory in San Francisco. On her way home one night, she’s brutally attacked by their goons who assault and nearly rape her before Emmett and other pack members come to her aid. Feeling guilty that a lady was harmed on his watch, Emmett sets up a protection detail for Ria and her family, and assigns himself the task of being her personal bodyguard. Although Ria’s overprotective family is trying to steer her into an arranged marriage, she has no interest in the guy they’re pushing on her, while Emmett holds all kinds of attraction for her. While Emmett and the pack investigate and work to eliminate the gang, things heat up between him and Ria.
For its short length, Whisper of Sin was a pretty good novella. I generally liked both Emmett and Ria. I like the way Emmett comforts Ria following the attack and can’t seem to let her go. With their inner beast in play, the male Changelings in this series tend to be pretty intensely alpha, which doesn’t always work well for me. I thought that maybe Emmett came on just a tad too strong, too soon, given that Ria was so recently attacked, but otherwise, I liked him and felt that he found a decent balance between being protective and possessive of his woman and having gentler moments, too. Ria is a little spitfire, who can be rather temperamental at times, but not to the point that she was irritating. She still lives at home with her family, which I think is mainly a product of her Asian heritage. But that doesn’t stop her from standing up for herself and seeking her independence. Due to the shortness of the story, Emmett and Ria’s relationship does develop very quickly, almost a little too quickly to be entirely believable even with Emmett’s animal mating nature in play. I struggled a bit to put my finger on exactly what drew them to each other and made them fall in love, although I’ll admit that I felt a connection between them during the intimate scenes.
There are several common Changeling characters who pop up during the story including Lucas (Slave to Sensation), Tamsyn and Nate (“Beat of Temptation”), Dorian (Hostage to Pleasure), and Clay (Mine to Possess). I also enjoyed Ria’s family, particularly her grandmother, who despite their overprotectiveness are good people who really care about her. The writing was generally good with my only small issue being that the author has a penchant for using short phrases in place of full sentences (eg. “A small wicked smile.” instead of He gave her a small wicked smile. Or “Another kiss before he straightened.” instead of He kissed her again before he straightened.) These are peppered throughout the narrative. I can’t recall if Nalini Singh commonly did this in her other stories I read or not, but it kind of annoyed me here because IMHO, writing this way both makes the narrative passive rather than active and it feels lazy, as though the author couldn’t be bothered to form complete sentences. Also while Emmett does use his cat senses to investigate, he never shifts, which was just a tad disappointing. Otherwise, though, I didn’t have any major problems with the story, so overall this was a good novella and a nice addition to the series. Whisper of Sin was originally published in the multi-author anthology Burning Up and was later reprinted as a stand-alone ebook.
April 11, 2019
Novella Prequel to Psy-Changeling Series
THE STORY: Ria Wembly is attacked. She is saved by leopard shapeshifters known as changlings. Emmett is a leopard changeling and he immediately knows that Ria is important to him. He is determined to find out who is trying to hurt Ria and to eliminate that threat. Emmett is possessive and dominating and Ria lives with a family that has tried to control her for too long. Can she deal with Emmett?
OPINION: I liked this novella. Singh has created an interesting world and set of characters and I look forward to reading the actual novels in the series. The story between Ria and Emmett is fast and intense. I really enjoyed the glimpses into her family who are a unique bunch. I recommend this novella whether or not you have read the other books in the series.
WORTH MENTIONING: I read this book before any of the major novels in the series. While I suspect that there are lots of cameos by characters that appear in the series, I did not feel that I had missed anything. I understood what was happening in the story.
FINAL DECISION: I enjoyed this story and can't wait to read the full length novels in the series.
CONNECTED BOOKS: This novella is 0.6 of the Psy-Changeling series.
STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars.
THE STORY: Ria Wembly is attacked. She is saved by leopard shapeshifters known as changlings. Emmett is a leopard changeling and he immediately knows that Ria is important to him. He is determined to find out who is trying to hurt Ria and to eliminate that threat. Emmett is possessive and dominating and Ria lives with a family that has tried to control her for too long. Can she deal with Emmett?
OPINION: I liked this novella. Singh has created an interesting world and set of characters and I look forward to reading the actual novels in the series. The story between Ria and Emmett is fast and intense. I really enjoyed the glimpses into her family who are a unique bunch. I recommend this novella whether or not you have read the other books in the series.
WORTH MENTIONING: I read this book before any of the major novels in the series. While I suspect that there are lots of cameos by characters that appear in the series, I did not feel that I had missed anything. I understood what was happening in the story.
FINAL DECISION: I enjoyed this story and can't wait to read the full length novels in the series.
CONNECTED BOOKS: This novella is 0.6 of the Psy-Changeling series.
STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars.
June 15, 2022
WHISPER OF SIN was such a fantastic novella and I'm always amazed at how much story Nalini Singh can pack into such a short page count. I loved seeing the early days of the DarkRiver pack, before they became a well known force in San Francisco. I also adored going back and seeing how Ria and Emmett met since they were already together in SLAVE TO SENSATION.
Ria was such a sassy and feisty character and I loved her mix of sometimes being shy but never afraid to speak her mind and stand up for herself. She has the force of will to stand up to Emmett's protectiveness and not let herself get steamrolled by her meddling family. I also loved Emmett and all his growls and cat-like moments. I love how Singh writes her changeling characters with such a great balance of human and animal characteristics.
Every time I read WHISPER OF SIN it just makes me so excited to read the rest of the PSY-CHANGELING series!
Content Warning: book starts with the immediate aftermath of an attempted rape (assault not shown); pregnant side character with on page complications during labor
Ria was such a sassy and feisty character and I loved her mix of sometimes being shy but never afraid to speak her mind and stand up for herself. She has the force of will to stand up to Emmett's protectiveness and not let herself get steamrolled by her meddling family. I also loved Emmett and all his growls and cat-like moments. I love how Singh writes her changeling characters with such a great balance of human and animal characteristics.
Every time I read WHISPER OF SIN it just makes me so excited to read the rest of the PSY-CHANGELING series!
Content Warning: book starts with the immediate aftermath of an attempted rape (assault not shown); pregnant side character with on page complications during labor
September 2, 2021
These guys were seriously the cutest couple. A lovely pairing, fun family, and nice dab of cultural/ heritage incorporation. The description made it sound like a way darker gang story than it is, that stuff was pretty much incidental. The usual simplistic style and insta love of most novellas to be overlooked of course.
July 27, 2016
Pues lo leí por recomendación de Neus y comprendo la recomendación xD Yo quiero un Emmet (aunque la verdad es que Dorian también me llama mucho la atención (: Cualquiera me parece bien xD).
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