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The Healer #1
The Healer
A girl, a prophecy, and two warring gods equals destiny!
Hope Fairmont longs for a normal teenage life, but with a gift like hers, normal equals healing illnesses and injuries instantly. Keeping a secret like that isn’t easy, but a small town is the perfect place for her to heal those who can’t heal themselves, and an even better place for her father, James Fairmont, to hide his daughter from the rest of the world.
Life takes an unexpected turn when two handsome strangers move into town and begin unearthing other secrets concerning Hope's future and past, revealing to Hope that her gift for healing may be the fulfillment of an ancient, Japanese prophecy gone wrong.
Staying away from these mysterious newcomers would be the smart thing to do, but Victor's gentle, easy manner, and Tie's mixed signals and strange mood swings draw her hopelessly closer to revealing the secret she and her father have been so desperate to hide.
Hope's life is complicated further with visions of a previous life and the arrival of a supernatural demon sent to assassinate her before she learns what she is truly capable of.
With the support of her father, the fiery loyalty of her best friend Angie, and the child-like love of Kirby, a ten-year-old patient, Hope must fight against the forces of a relentless demon god while unwinding the tangled pieces of her past, proving to herself and those she loves that destiny isn’t determined by some cosmic reading of the stars, but by the individual choices one makes.
Embark upon a journey of heart-stopping adventure in this young adult paranormal fantasy filled with supernatural creatures, ancient prophecies, immortal gods, and divine magical healing powers. A romantic coming of age series filled with love, loss, and second chances. This romantic adventure infuses fantasy, swords and sorcery, traditional myths and legends, and paranormal themes to create a thrilling story readers are sure to enjoy.
**********
Excerpt:
Tie shook his head and opened his mouth as if to say something, but all that came out was a wheezing noise and then an alarming amount of blood. I looked at the gaping hole in his chest and began to panic, feeling certain Tie should have repaired what he could, and Victor should have been able to heal him by now.
“Victor, why isn’t he healing himself?” I asked anxiously.
“He can’t,” he said.
Victor opened his eyes and sat back looking defeated.
“Then you do it,” I cried out. My voice was beginning to shake. I was about two seconds away from becoming as unhinged as Angie.
“I can’t do it. I can’t heal him.” He buried his face in his hands.
“Quit telling me what can’t be done, and tell me what can!”
“Nothing can be done, okay?” The look he gave me was awful. A look of defeat. “There is absolutely nothing that anyone can do. The sword that stabbed him was forged in the land of the dead, and I only have so much power at my disposal. What little power I did have, I used to heal you when we were at the hospital.”
I swallowed down the lump of guilt forming in my throat and let out a trembling breath.
“Even if I hadn’t healed you tonight, I still wouldn’t be able to help him. You can’t heal a stab wound inflicted by that kind of sword,” he whispered. “Tie is going to die.
Hope Fairmont longs for a normal teenage life, but with a gift like hers, normal equals healing illnesses and injuries instantly. Keeping a secret like that isn’t easy, but a small town is the perfect place for her to heal those who can’t heal themselves, and an even better place for her father, James Fairmont, to hide his daughter from the rest of the world.
Life takes an unexpected turn when two handsome strangers move into town and begin unearthing other secrets concerning Hope's future and past, revealing to Hope that her gift for healing may be the fulfillment of an ancient, Japanese prophecy gone wrong.
Staying away from these mysterious newcomers would be the smart thing to do, but Victor's gentle, easy manner, and Tie's mixed signals and strange mood swings draw her hopelessly closer to revealing the secret she and her father have been so desperate to hide.
Hope's life is complicated further with visions of a previous life and the arrival of a supernatural demon sent to assassinate her before she learns what she is truly capable of.
With the support of her father, the fiery loyalty of her best friend Angie, and the child-like love of Kirby, a ten-year-old patient, Hope must fight against the forces of a relentless demon god while unwinding the tangled pieces of her past, proving to herself and those she loves that destiny isn’t determined by some cosmic reading of the stars, but by the individual choices one makes.
Embark upon a journey of heart-stopping adventure in this young adult paranormal fantasy filled with supernatural creatures, ancient prophecies, immortal gods, and divine magical healing powers. A romantic coming of age series filled with love, loss, and second chances. This romantic adventure infuses fantasy, swords and sorcery, traditional myths and legends, and paranormal themes to create a thrilling story readers are sure to enjoy.
**********
Excerpt:
Tie shook his head and opened his mouth as if to say something, but all that came out was a wheezing noise and then an alarming amount of blood. I looked at the gaping hole in his chest and began to panic, feeling certain Tie should have repaired what he could, and Victor should have been able to heal him by now.
“Victor, why isn’t he healing himself?” I asked anxiously.
“He can’t,” he said.
Victor opened his eyes and sat back looking defeated.
“Then you do it,” I cried out. My voice was beginning to shake. I was about two seconds away from becoming as unhinged as Angie.
“I can’t do it. I can’t heal him.” He buried his face in his hands.
“Quit telling me what can’t be done, and tell me what can!”
“Nothing can be done, okay?” The look he gave me was awful. A look of defeat. “There is absolutely nothing that anyone can do. The sword that stabbed him was forged in the land of the dead, and I only have so much power at my disposal. What little power I did have, I used to heal you when we were at the hospital.”
I swallowed down the lump of guilt forming in my throat and let out a trembling breath.
“Even if I hadn’t healed you tonight, I still wouldn’t be able to help him. You can’t heal a stab wound inflicted by that kind of sword,” he whispered. “Tie is going to die.
265 pages, ebook
First published November 1, 2013
784 people are currently reading
3753 people want to read
About the author
C.J. Anaya
27 books520 followersDo you love free romances? Need a new book boyfriend?
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I am always looking for reviewers to read and review my books. If you see a book that interests you please email me at authorandbookspotlights@gmail.com to request a review copy of that book.
I began writing short stories for family and friends when I was thirteen years old. My vivid imagination and love of mysteries and romances eventually led me to following my own dreams of becoming a published author. I also do some book review work on the side for SDE Magazine.
I'm a huge fan of The Mindy Project, Hugh Jackman, and binge eating any and all things chocolate. Who isn't, am I right?
As a mother of four awesome kids I'm usually playing beauty salon with my daughters (my four-year-old shaved my arm one time while I was helping another daughter with her homework. Yep. That happened) getting my fanny kicked in Mario Kart by my snarky little son, and making out with my deliciously handsome looking Latin lover, aka, my hubby.
SEND MY FREE BOOK
SEND MY FREE BOOK
I am always looking for reviewers to read and review my books. If you see a book that interests you please email me at authorandbookspotlights@gmail.com to request a review copy of that book.
I began writing short stories for family and friends when I was thirteen years old. My vivid imagination and love of mysteries and romances eventually led me to following my own dreams of becoming a published author. I also do some book review work on the side for SDE Magazine.
I'm a huge fan of The Mindy Project, Hugh Jackman, and binge eating any and all things chocolate. Who isn't, am I right?
As a mother of four awesome kids I'm usually playing beauty salon with my daughters (my four-year-old shaved my arm one time while I was helping another daughter with her homework. Yep. That happened) getting my fanny kicked in Mario Kart by my snarky little son, and making out with my deliciously handsome looking Latin lover, aka, my hubby.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 240 reviews
July 11, 2016
(Source: I received a digital copy of this book for free on a read-to-review basis. Thanks to author C.J. Anaya.)
This was a YA paranormal romance story, with a bit of mythology.
Hope was an okay character, and she certainly went out of her way to help others, even when it put her own life in danger. She was also very good at lying about her healing abilities when she needed to.
The storyline in this was about Hope having magical healing abilities, and about two new students at her school who somehow knew all about her. It’s hard to say more without dropping spoilers, but Hope found out a lot more about her abilities, we got some mythology, and a love triangle. I did find the pace quite slow in this book though, and it was a little too information-heavy in places for me.
The ending to this was good, and I am curious to see where the second book goes.
6.5 out of 10
“I should have seen what was coming, but his kiss took me by surprise. He wasn’t timid at all, and there was nothing soft about the way he caught my lips with his own. He kissed me as if he’d been waiting hundreds of years to do so, crushing me to him, no longer polite and reserved as he had been earlier.”
This was a YA paranormal romance story, with a bit of mythology.
Hope was an okay character, and she certainly went out of her way to help others, even when it put her own life in danger. She was also very good at lying about her healing abilities when she needed to.
The storyline in this was about Hope having magical healing abilities, and about two new students at her school who somehow knew all about her. It’s hard to say more without dropping spoilers, but Hope found out a lot more about her abilities, we got some mythology, and a love triangle. I did find the pace quite slow in this book though, and it was a little too information-heavy in places for me.
The ending to this was good, and I am curious to see where the second book goes.
6.5 out of 10
May 17, 2020
3,75 stars - English Ebook - first novel in series. 🌹🦋🌹
January 9, 2018
Disclaimer: I was sent a copy of this book by the author, C.J. Anaya, for an honest review
Opinion:
Here it is my loves, the first of many YA/Fantasy/Romance stories of 2018!
The Healer, a young girl with the ability to…What?! Heal?!? NO! Plus, two what vying for her love?? GODS?!? We might as well call this a “Heaven Sandwich”, with extra healer jelly filling just OOZING with tummy butterflies and heartbreak!
Oh, my word…it’s positively swoon worthy already! *insert dainty hand to forehead movement*
When Hope was just seven years old, she learned of her ability to heal people. By connecting with someone’s life force, Hope is able to command and feed instructions to a body’s cells in order to repair it. But Hopes miraculous ability could put her in danger, so it is her duty to keep anyone from finding out what she can do. Now ten years later, two new guys show up at her Northern California high school, and everything changes. Somehow they know what Hope can do, and to make matters worse, someone is throwing fireballs at her and trying to kill her. But with the help of these mysterious boys, Tie and Victor, Hope will realize that there is much more to her life than just an ability to heal.
Woooo! Guys, this series is turning out to be a wild one. I am hooked and I may have already started book 3, because I can’t help but devour these books! Okay, let’s begin with the basics. Our shining star of a female role in this series is Hope, and she has the ability to heal someone by connecting with their life force…or spirt/soul/inner alien (whatever you want to call it). Hope and her father have kept her secret quiet for 10 long years, but that suddenly changes. A new student arrives at Hope’s high school named Tie, and Hope feels an instant connection to him. To make things even weirder, Tie begins hinting at knowing about hope’s healing abilities. RED ALERT! Then, not an hour later, ANOTHER new guy shows up at her high school. His name is Victor, and he ALSO seems to know about Hope’s ability.
But wait guys, it gets even better!
These two handsome and mysterious boys turn out to be gods who have been searching for Hope for HUNDREDS of years, and have come to keep her safe from a fallen deity who wants her dead. You see…there’s this prophecy…
I really can’t go on much further without spilling the entire book to you guys, which is SO hard not to do. But I will give you a little more insight into the characters and what to expect.
There is a lot of great things happening in this story, and the author keeps the reader hooked throughout. I read this in one sitting, and immediately jumped to book 2! I am glad the author created such a strong and caring female lead for this story. Hope feels a bit older than her years, but she has the right amount of youth and inexperience in life to make her character feel believable. Her best friend Angie had me DYING and laughing my ass off. She is such an instigator and puts Hope in some very amusing situations, with only the best intentions. C.J. Anaya really did do a great job of putting some comical aspects in this book, and I found myself literally laughing out loud throughout.
I didn’t get to know the characters of Tie and Victor that well in book 1, but the reader REALLY gets to know them in the following books. Tie is the “bad boy” of our story, while Victor seems to be slightly more mature and kind. Honestly, Victor sounds a little boring in this book…and he is. BUT, the reader will really get to know these guys in the books following. Trust me when I say, these guys have a LOT happening with them.
Though The Healer did feel a little cheesy to me at times, I can ensure you that by book 2 the cheesiness has gone. Don’t get me wrong, it’s written well and developed thoughtfully. It just definitely has those “YA high school” undertones in it. What is interesting to me is that the main part of this story takes place in just 1 or 2 days. This sounds like it might be a little daunting, but the author really made it work. I didn’t feel like anything was rushed over or left unexplained, and there was still so much happening. She made it work!
The ending is going to leave you on a sad note, but also a hopeful one. I suggest getting the entire series at once, and preparing yourself to have a weekend of doing nothing but reading. I am currently on book 3 (I know, I’m behind on my reviews) and I am showing NO signs of slowing down. I don’t want to get to the final book, but I need it in my life. GO GET THIS SERIES! It is something a little different from the normal YA/Fantasy stories out there, and if you’re like me, you are always looking for something different.
Opinion:
Here it is my loves, the first of many YA/Fantasy/Romance stories of 2018!
The Healer, a young girl with the ability to…What?! Heal?!? NO! Plus, two what vying for her love?? GODS?!? We might as well call this a “Heaven Sandwich”, with extra healer jelly filling just OOZING with tummy butterflies and heartbreak!
Oh, my word…it’s positively swoon worthy already! *insert dainty hand to forehead movement*
When Hope was just seven years old, she learned of her ability to heal people. By connecting with someone’s life force, Hope is able to command and feed instructions to a body’s cells in order to repair it. But Hopes miraculous ability could put her in danger, so it is her duty to keep anyone from finding out what she can do. Now ten years later, two new guys show up at her Northern California high school, and everything changes. Somehow they know what Hope can do, and to make matters worse, someone is throwing fireballs at her and trying to kill her. But with the help of these mysterious boys, Tie and Victor, Hope will realize that there is much more to her life than just an ability to heal.
Woooo! Guys, this series is turning out to be a wild one. I am hooked and I may have already started book 3, because I can’t help but devour these books! Okay, let’s begin with the basics. Our shining star of a female role in this series is Hope, and she has the ability to heal someone by connecting with their life force…or spirt/soul/inner alien (whatever you want to call it). Hope and her father have kept her secret quiet for 10 long years, but that suddenly changes. A new student arrives at Hope’s high school named Tie, and Hope feels an instant connection to him. To make things even weirder, Tie begins hinting at knowing about hope’s healing abilities. RED ALERT! Then, not an hour later, ANOTHER new guy shows up at her high school. His name is Victor, and he ALSO seems to know about Hope’s ability.
But wait guys, it gets even better!
These two handsome and mysterious boys turn out to be gods who have been searching for Hope for HUNDREDS of years, and have come to keep her safe from a fallen deity who wants her dead. You see…there’s this prophecy…
I really can’t go on much further without spilling the entire book to you guys, which is SO hard not to do. But I will give you a little more insight into the characters and what to expect.
There is a lot of great things happening in this story, and the author keeps the reader hooked throughout. I read this in one sitting, and immediately jumped to book 2! I am glad the author created such a strong and caring female lead for this story. Hope feels a bit older than her years, but she has the right amount of youth and inexperience in life to make her character feel believable. Her best friend Angie had me DYING and laughing my ass off. She is such an instigator and puts Hope in some very amusing situations, with only the best intentions. C.J. Anaya really did do a great job of putting some comical aspects in this book, and I found myself literally laughing out loud throughout.
I didn’t get to know the characters of Tie and Victor that well in book 1, but the reader REALLY gets to know them in the following books. Tie is the “bad boy” of our story, while Victor seems to be slightly more mature and kind. Honestly, Victor sounds a little boring in this book…and he is. BUT, the reader will really get to know these guys in the books following. Trust me when I say, these guys have a LOT happening with them.
Though The Healer did feel a little cheesy to me at times, I can ensure you that by book 2 the cheesiness has gone. Don’t get me wrong, it’s written well and developed thoughtfully. It just definitely has those “YA high school” undertones in it. What is interesting to me is that the main part of this story takes place in just 1 or 2 days. This sounds like it might be a little daunting, but the author really made it work. I didn’t feel like anything was rushed over or left unexplained, and there was still so much happening. She made it work!
The ending is going to leave you on a sad note, but also a hopeful one. I suggest getting the entire series at once, and preparing yourself to have a weekend of doing nothing but reading. I am currently on book 3 (I know, I’m behind on my reviews) and I am showing NO signs of slowing down. I don’t want to get to the final book, but I need it in my life. GO GET THIS SERIES! It is something a little different from the normal YA/Fantasy stories out there, and if you’re like me, you are always looking for something different.
July 3, 2016
I came across C.J. Anaya through a Goodreads giveaway for this series. Unfortunately, I did not win the series, but I did sign up for her newsletter. Through doing so, I received the first book and a short story. I had intended to read it for quite some time – but my to-read list is ridiculously long. Despite having not read any of her work, though, I signed up to join her advance read team when I saw she was looking for people to join. This meant I got to read her Marry Your Billionaire at the start of the year – and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I knew right then that I would be reading more of her work. Still, I didn’t pick this up right away. It had nothing to do with a lack of interest, rather I had so many advance reads to get through and there were so many new books I’d been waiting on, it just sort of feel to the bottom of my list. Not too long back, however, I noticed that C.J. Anaya was looking for people to review the series for her. Thus, I contacted her. I explained that I had the first book and would love to read the rest of the series. She was lovely enjoy to send me books two and three.
Then came the dreaded exam period that puts a dampener on bibliophiles. Despite wanting to read a book a day, such a thing isn’t really advised. Thus, it was put aside for a while.
Finally, however, I have got to work on the series – and it is safe to say, I’m enjoying it!
I know, I know, I’ve only read the first book. What I mean is that I enjoyed the introduction and I’m more than happy to continue on. In fact, with the way it ended I need to carry on straight away. I need to know what comes next – I’ve been pulled in, and I’m in dire need of answers to so many things.
Don’t get me wrong, I didn’t feel like this for the whole book. It did take me a while to get into the story, and I feared at first it would be a three star read. As I’ve come to expect through reading Marry Your Billionaire and her short stories, C.J. Anaya is a wonderful author. She had a writing style that is very much her own, and she easily brings the characters to life (seriously, the cast in this story is wonderful). But, it was a bit too much on the young adult side of things for me when the story first started. We had details of the high school life and the drama surrounding it – and such a thing never really pulls me it. It doesn’t matter how good the story is, these things will never entertain me. I hated high school far too much to ever get enjoyment from this kind of thing. However, if you enjoy such a thing, then I know you’ll love that aspect of the story. It builds so much for the later story, and it is much better done than a lot of stories out there. It’s a lot more realistic, despite the fantasy aspect of the story.
And oh my, what a great fantasy aspect it is. It reminds me some of other stories, but that is just in the under arching story. The specific details are unique and wonderful. It’s such a great story, with such interesting aspects. I really do fear saying too much. Honestly, there is so much I want to say and yet each time I start to type a sentence my brain screams out with a warning of how I’m inching towards spoilers.
You know a book is good when every tiny detail you can offer up hints towards spoilers. It means it is well thought out, with the story being wonderfully interconnected.
Honestly, there are so many good things about this.
However, I did find myself somewhat annoyed by the romance aspect. Specifically, I found myself annoyed by the instalove and love triangle. I know this links in with so many aspects of the story – yet I found myself unable to truly enjoy the romance aspect as it all seemed too much too soon. This is, in part, is due to the fact that I’m very picky when it comes to romances – but still. Even if I wasn’t so fickle, I fear I would have labelled it too much too soon.
Overall, it was a great introduction to the series and I’m more than intrigued to see where everything goes from here.
Then came the dreaded exam period that puts a dampener on bibliophiles. Despite wanting to read a book a day, such a thing isn’t really advised. Thus, it was put aside for a while.
Finally, however, I have got to work on the series – and it is safe to say, I’m enjoying it!
I know, I know, I’ve only read the first book. What I mean is that I enjoyed the introduction and I’m more than happy to continue on. In fact, with the way it ended I need to carry on straight away. I need to know what comes next – I’ve been pulled in, and I’m in dire need of answers to so many things.
Don’t get me wrong, I didn’t feel like this for the whole book. It did take me a while to get into the story, and I feared at first it would be a three star read. As I’ve come to expect through reading Marry Your Billionaire and her short stories, C.J. Anaya is a wonderful author. She had a writing style that is very much her own, and she easily brings the characters to life (seriously, the cast in this story is wonderful). But, it was a bit too much on the young adult side of things for me when the story first started. We had details of the high school life and the drama surrounding it – and such a thing never really pulls me it. It doesn’t matter how good the story is, these things will never entertain me. I hated high school far too much to ever get enjoyment from this kind of thing. However, if you enjoy such a thing, then I know you’ll love that aspect of the story. It builds so much for the later story, and it is much better done than a lot of stories out there. It’s a lot more realistic, despite the fantasy aspect of the story.
And oh my, what a great fantasy aspect it is. It reminds me some of other stories, but that is just in the under arching story. The specific details are unique and wonderful. It’s such a great story, with such interesting aspects. I really do fear saying too much. Honestly, there is so much I want to say and yet each time I start to type a sentence my brain screams out with a warning of how I’m inching towards spoilers.
You know a book is good when every tiny detail you can offer up hints towards spoilers. It means it is well thought out, with the story being wonderfully interconnected.
Honestly, there are so many good things about this.
However, I did find myself somewhat annoyed by the romance aspect. Specifically, I found myself annoyed by the instalove and love triangle. I know this links in with so many aspects of the story – yet I found myself unable to truly enjoy the romance aspect as it all seemed too much too soon. This is, in part, is due to the fact that I’m very picky when it comes to romances – but still. Even if I wasn’t so fickle, I fear I would have labelled it too much too soon.
Overall, it was a great introduction to the series and I’m more than intrigued to see where everything goes from here.
January 22, 2015
I'm so glad I got the chance to read The Healer. My experience with young adult paranormal books hasn't been too great so I wasn't expecting to like this story as much as I did but wow I was so hooked. Gotta love books that sneak up on you like that.
It took me a good 20% to get into this book but after that I thought it was a really good read. The writing flowed really well and I actually loved the romance, which for me is a big accomplishment on its own. And as a huge mythology fan I was really interested in the japanese mythology aspect of the book. I never read a book about japanese mythology, which is why I decided to read and review this book, and let me tell you it was just awesome to be reading something new and original like it.
The characters in this book were all very realistic. I absolutely loved that. The reactions of the characters, especially Hope and Angie's reactions, to all the paranormal and freaky stuff happening was just real, you know. And that's hard to find in paranormal books these days. I really liked Hope as the main character. She was honestly a kind and good person. I loved how she wanted to help sick and injured people with her powers and she was just a great person to read about.
I also loved her best friend Angie. Lord knows I laughed my ass off with her. Hope's dad is honestly one of the best parent characters I have come across. He was very protective of his daughter and actually knows about her powers, which is really refreshing if you ask me.
Meeting the two love interests was interesting, with them being gods and all. I liked both of them and this certainly isn't just a love triangle. I actually liked the romance, which is very rare for me. Victor seemed like a very sweet guy to me, I liked him a lot but I agree (like Hope and Angie do in the book) that he's most suited for Angie. I do hope they'll end up together eventually. Tie... what can I say about him. He was very entertaining to read about and I just loved him so much. Him and Hope are perfection to me. And that is all!
The overall story was pretty intriguing. I felt myself trying to work out what exactly was going on with Tie, Victor and how they all fit together in the story. The ending was unexpected. I'm not sure what to think of it, to be honest. I want to find out what will happen to them all so badly. Yeah, this was a great book!
I must admit that sometime I zoned out a little when Hope was healing people so I guess that can be considered my least favorite part. Don't get me wrong, I loved her abilitiy and how serious she took it, but I guess it was just a little too much sometimes.
The Healer was more than I expected. The story was really good, the characters realistic and never failed to bore me. I loved the author's writing because it read so easily and the romance was sweet and exciting all at once. Read this book, people!
It took me a good 20% to get into this book but after that I thought it was a really good read. The writing flowed really well and I actually loved the romance, which for me is a big accomplishment on its own. And as a huge mythology fan I was really interested in the japanese mythology aspect of the book. I never read a book about japanese mythology, which is why I decided to read and review this book, and let me tell you it was just awesome to be reading something new and original like it.
The characters in this book were all very realistic. I absolutely loved that. The reactions of the characters, especially Hope and Angie's reactions, to all the paranormal and freaky stuff happening was just real, you know. And that's hard to find in paranormal books these days. I really liked Hope as the main character. She was honestly a kind and good person. I loved how she wanted to help sick and injured people with her powers and she was just a great person to read about.
I also loved her best friend Angie. Lord knows I laughed my ass off with her. Hope's dad is honestly one of the best parent characters I have come across. He was very protective of his daughter and actually knows about her powers, which is really refreshing if you ask me.
Meeting the two love interests was interesting, with them being gods and all. I liked both of them and this certainly isn't just a love triangle. I actually liked the romance, which is very rare for me. Victor seemed like a very sweet guy to me, I liked him a lot but I agree (like Hope and Angie do in the book) that he's most suited for Angie. I do hope they'll end up together eventually. Tie... what can I say about him. He was very entertaining to read about and I just loved him so much. Him and Hope are perfection to me. And that is all!
The overall story was pretty intriguing. I felt myself trying to work out what exactly was going on with Tie, Victor and how they all fit together in the story. The ending was unexpected. I'm not sure what to think of it, to be honest. I want to find out what will happen to them all so badly. Yeah, this was a great book!
I must admit that sometime I zoned out a little when Hope was healing people so I guess that can be considered my least favorite part. Don't get me wrong, I loved her abilitiy and how serious she took it, but I guess it was just a little too much sometimes.
The Healer was more than I expected. The story was really good, the characters realistic and never failed to bore me. I loved the author's writing because it read so easily and the romance was sweet and exciting all at once. Read this book, people!
December 17, 2015
Wow, what an unexpectedly good book!
It did take me a while to fully get into the story as the beginning really dragged for me, which is why I'm withdrawing one star, but once I crossed the 15% mark, I was totally absorbed in the fantastic world C.J. Anaya had built.
So, this book basically depicts the events of just one day in 17-year old Hope Fairmont's life (two days if you count the first 10%, which, however, mainly serve the purpose of introducing the main characters). One day that turns her whole life and everything she knew - or thought she knew - upside down.
10 years ago, Hope discovered she had the ability to heal. Why, she didn't know, but she made it her mission to use her powers to help the people surrounding her as best she could. When one day she discovers she's being followed, the two new boys at her high school show an unnerving interest in her, and strange visions start plaguing her, Hope finds herself in a world full of ancient mythological creatures, unknown dangers and a prophecy she doesn't want to be a part of.
Obviously, and I'm not even spoiling anything by telling you this, we have a love triangle here. I don't inherently mind love triangles in my books but more often than not, I get annoyed by them, especially by the heroine's mindless behavior. However, somehow it really worked in this one. Usually, I feel bad for the two love interests and want to punch the heroine who just won't stop leading them on without having the backbone to make a decision. Reading this book, though, I totally empathized with poor Hope. She is being thrown into a situation she has no control over, a situation she desperately wants to escape but just can't . Still, I loved both Tie and Victor, as different as they may be.
Speaking of loveable characters: I adored Hope's overprotective dad, and her best friend, Angie, was hilarious and quirky and just the perfect counterpart to calm, levelheaded Hope. I'm so happy we'll be seeing more of them in the future. It would have been a shame to have them reduced to mere background characters. I even have my suspicions as to who/what Angie really is.
Anaya also did a different take on the whole mythology surrounding the characters. I've read my fair share of books dealing with Greek or Roman mythology, but this was the first one to approach the subject of Japanese/Asian gods and demons. It was fascinating reading something so unique and I found myself browsing Wikipedia several times to learn more about it.
I've already bought book 2 and can't wait to continue this series.
Free copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
It did take me a while to fully get into the story as the beginning really dragged for me, which is why I'm withdrawing one star, but once I crossed the 15% mark, I was totally absorbed in the fantastic world C.J. Anaya had built.
So, this book basically depicts the events of just one day in 17-year old Hope Fairmont's life (two days if you count the first 10%, which, however, mainly serve the purpose of introducing the main characters). One day that turns her whole life and everything she knew - or thought she knew - upside down.
10 years ago, Hope discovered she had the ability to heal. Why, she didn't know, but she made it her mission to use her powers to help the people surrounding her as best she could. When one day she discovers she's being followed, the two new boys at her high school show an unnerving interest in her, and strange visions start plaguing her, Hope finds herself in a world full of ancient mythological creatures, unknown dangers and a prophecy she doesn't want to be a part of.
Obviously, and I'm not even spoiling anything by telling you this, we have a love triangle here. I don't inherently mind love triangles in my books but more often than not, I get annoyed by them, especially by the heroine's mindless behavior. However, somehow it really worked in this one. Usually, I feel bad for the two love interests and want to punch the heroine who just won't stop leading them on without having the backbone to make a decision. Reading this book, though, I totally empathized with poor Hope. She is being thrown into a situation she has no control over, a situation she desperately wants to escape but just can't . Still, I loved both Tie and Victor, as different as they may be.
Speaking of loveable characters: I adored Hope's overprotective dad, and her best friend, Angie, was hilarious and quirky and just the perfect counterpart to calm, levelheaded Hope. I'm so happy we'll be seeing more of them in the future. It would have been a shame to have them reduced to mere background characters. I even have my suspicions as to who/what Angie really is.
Anaya also did a different take on the whole mythology surrounding the characters. I've read my fair share of books dealing with Greek or Roman mythology, but this was the first one to approach the subject of Japanese/Asian gods and demons. It was fascinating reading something so unique and I found myself browsing Wikipedia several times to learn more about it.
I've already bought book 2 and can't wait to continue this series.
Free copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
May 28, 2022
4 stars - English Ebook
Well written book. It was realy an enjoyable read for me. The characters where mostly highschool adge but their manner of speaking was mature.
I loved the characters, especially Angie. She is such a spitfire. But besides here, you can tell that the author put a lot of thought and care into the creation of each of the characters. They grow along the line.
I loved how all of the different events that occurred in Hope's life ties together, in a way that felt natural and not forced at all. The conections real and believable.
Well written book. It was realy an enjoyable read for me. The characters where mostly highschool adge but their manner of speaking was mature.
I loved the characters, especially Angie. She is such a spitfire. But besides here, you can tell that the author put a lot of thought and care into the creation of each of the characters. They grow along the line.
I loved how all of the different events that occurred in Hope's life ties together, in a way that felt natural and not forced at all. The conections real and believable.
July 8, 2017
+Received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
The thing that attracted me to this book was the Japanese mythology/curse part. I love reading about mythology and I knew nothing about the Japanese one so why not try?
THE WORLD: The normal world but The Gods are real. In this case the Japanese deities but I am guessing the rest should be just as real too.
CHARACTERS: Hope Fairmont, normal high school student except that she can heal people, is the main character. She can actually 'connect' with people's brain and cells and give them orders, tell them how to heal themselves or perform certain tasks, etc. As far as she knows she's the only one who can do this and her father, James, doesn't want anybody to know because a) she would be a freak and b) probably put in a lab by the government... so they hide her powers by making her a cleaning worker at the local hospital where she can heal people safely. She has two best friends, the bestest is Angie who she saved from death when they were children, and the other is Kirby, a leukemia patient she cannot heal because he's actually supposed to die (when people are supposed to die she cannot heal them because their bodies don't respond to anything). Up to here there is nothing too interesting... but then two really hot guys appear suddenly, Tie Hart and Victor, and that's when things get messy because there are also Japanese gods involved. There is a Japanese prophecy that is supposed to be fulfilled and you can already guess who is going to be involved right? *wink wink*
I don't want to reveal it because it would be super spoilery and nope, you should read it and learn about this Japanese prophecy and the Japanese gods...
LOVE: Now this is super confusing. At first it's kinda insta-love (ugh!) and then for an awful 10-20% of the book it looks like an insta-love triangle (double ugh!) *panic! at the bedroom* but then there is a kind of plot-twist and it seems like it's actually not insta-love and nor a triangle... I don't know it's difficult to explain!
PLUS: I was not familiar with Japanese mythology so it was very interesting to read! I mean there is not that much going on in this book (it's only the first) except in the last half when all the mythology starts playing a part and explaining everything that should happen.
Kinda plot-twist? You see it coming though but it makes you very curious about how the next books are going to develop.
MINUS: The first half was not so interesting and also the insta-love panic!moment got me almost regretting reading it but no, then the love part was clarified and the story picked up quickly. Phew! relief...
OVERALL: 4 stars. I am very curious about the next books because this one ends in a cliffhanger. Oh yeah, cliffhangers are the worst I know.
—P.S. I Love That Book!
The thing that attracted me to this book was the Japanese mythology/curse part. I love reading about mythology and I knew nothing about the Japanese one so why not try?
THE WORLD: The normal world but The Gods are real. In this case the Japanese deities but I am guessing the rest should be just as real too.
CHARACTERS: Hope Fairmont, normal high school student except that she can heal people, is the main character. She can actually 'connect' with people's brain and cells and give them orders, tell them how to heal themselves or perform certain tasks, etc. As far as she knows she's the only one who can do this and her father, James, doesn't want anybody to know because a) she would be a freak and b) probably put in a lab by the government... so they hide her powers by making her a cleaning worker at the local hospital where she can heal people safely. She has two best friends, the bestest is Angie who she saved from death when they were children, and the other is Kirby, a leukemia patient she cannot heal because he's actually supposed to die (when people are supposed to die she cannot heal them because their bodies don't respond to anything). Up to here there is nothing too interesting... but then two really hot guys appear suddenly, Tie Hart and Victor, and that's when things get messy because there are also Japanese gods involved. There is a Japanese prophecy that is supposed to be fulfilled and you can already guess who is going to be involved right? *wink wink*
I don't want to reveal it because it would be super spoilery and nope, you should read it and learn about this Japanese prophecy and the Japanese gods...
LOVE: Now this is super confusing. At first it's kinda insta-love (ugh!) and then for an awful 10-20% of the book it looks like an insta-love triangle (double ugh!) *panic! at the bedroom* but then there is a kind of plot-twist and it seems like it's actually not insta-love and nor a triangle... I don't know it's difficult to explain!
PLUS: I was not familiar with Japanese mythology so it was very interesting to read! I mean there is not that much going on in this book (it's only the first) except in the last half when all the mythology starts playing a part and explaining everything that should happen.
Kinda plot-twist? You see it coming though but it makes you very curious about how the next books are going to develop.
MINUS: The first half was not so interesting and also the insta-love panic!moment got me almost regretting reading it but no, then the love part was clarified and the story picked up quickly. Phew! relief...
OVERALL: 4 stars. I am very curious about the next books because this one ends in a cliffhanger. Oh yeah, cliffhangers are the worst I know.
—P.S. I Love That Book!
May 1, 2015
If I were to describe this book in one word it would be "epic". But since this is a review for a blog tour, I'm going to describe it with many more.
Thanks so much, C.J. Anaya and YA Bound Book Tours, for this free book to review!
The Healer truly is epic. My favorite part is how it's entirely inside Hope's head. There's no jumping from character to character or accidental head-hopping--this is Hope's story and she's the only one who tells it. The characters are all awesome too. Here's a rundown:
Hope: Super awesome girl who's tough and knows her rights and isn't afraid to ask for them. Personally, I don't see why she likes Tie over Victor, but at least she's making her own decision. The decisions made for her aren't necessarily bad though, which leads to...
Victor! He's nice, cute, and friendly. There are a couple of times Hope finds him too controlling and possessive, but usually I would have done the same thing. If someone you loved was in danger, wouldn't you try to protect them? I didn't (often) get the impression that he thought she was helpless.
And then there's Tie.I'm not sure if, being the Japanese god of love, he naturally attracts people or not. If so, you can't really blame Hope for her crush on him, but if it's actually real? I don't see how she puts up with him. I have a feeling that will be explored in the next book though, but I can't say anything without spoiling it.
Hope's dad and best friend were awesome too--I love how neither of them fade into the backround once Hope finds out about her destiny.
The whole Japanese mythology and healing powers were totally believable. There's no instant acceptation of everything. Hope already knows something is up because she could heal people since she was seven, so when Tie and Victor appear, she's slightly prepared for their news, and so was I. There weren't any info-dumpings either, because it was spread throughout the whole book. As much as I don't like info-dumping, that may lead to my only issue. The whole thing feels like a set-up for the rest of the series, like it's just the backstory but the real book will come later.
I totally want to read what comes later, though. C.J. Anaya is epic.
Thanks so much, C.J. Anaya and YA Bound Book Tours, for this free book to review!
The Healer truly is epic. My favorite part is how it's entirely inside Hope's head. There's no jumping from character to character or accidental head-hopping--this is Hope's story and she's the only one who tells it. The characters are all awesome too. Here's a rundown:
Hope: Super awesome girl who's tough and knows her rights and isn't afraid to ask for them. Personally, I don't see why she likes Tie over Victor, but at least she's making her own decision. The decisions made for her aren't necessarily bad though, which leads to...
Victor! He's nice, cute, and friendly. There are a couple of times Hope finds him too controlling and possessive, but usually I would have done the same thing. If someone you loved was in danger, wouldn't you try to protect them? I didn't (often) get the impression that he thought she was helpless.
And then there's Tie.I'm not sure if, being the Japanese god of love, he naturally attracts people or not. If so, you can't really blame Hope for her crush on him, but if it's actually real? I don't see how she puts up with him. I have a feeling that will be explored in the next book though, but I can't say anything without spoiling it.
Hope's dad and best friend were awesome too--I love how neither of them fade into the backround once Hope finds out about her destiny.
The whole Japanese mythology and healing powers were totally believable. There's no instant acceptation of everything. Hope already knows something is up because she could heal people since she was seven, so when Tie and Victor appear, she's slightly prepared for their news, and so was I. There weren't any info-dumpings either, because it was spread throughout the whole book. As much as I don't like info-dumping, that may lead to my only issue. The whole thing feels like a set-up for the rest of the series, like it's just the backstory but the real book will come later.
I totally want to read what comes later, though. C.J. Anaya is epic.
August 19, 2019
A part of me is confused. How did I enjoy reading a book that had most of my least favorites cliches? Love triangle? Check. Chosen one? Check. Soulmates? Check.
Hope can heal people. She's been able to since she was seven. Her father made sure she kept it a secret (despite being a janitor at the hospital and healing people anyways) until one day she pushes a little too far.
Now there are demon cats after her, and two boys who claim to want to protect her.
What got me at around the 80% mark is that most of the book happens in one day. One day! She kisses, falls in love, discovers she's got mad skills, and other crazy stuff...in. one. day. Nooo. It's so impractical and argh, dang it, I still liked it.
This book was a pleasant surprise and I plan on finishing the series.
Hope can heal people. She's been able to since she was seven. Her father made sure she kept it a secret (despite being a janitor at the hospital and healing people anyways) until one day she pushes a little too far.
Now there are demon cats after her, and two boys who claim to want to protect her.
What got me at around the 80% mark is that most of the book happens in one day. One day! She kisses, falls in love, discovers she's got mad skills, and other crazy stuff...in. one. day. Nooo. It's so impractical and argh, dang it, I still liked it.
This book was a pleasant surprise and I plan on finishing the series.
October 6, 2016
I received a copy from the author, in exchange for an honest review.
Actual Rating: 3.25
Thank you C.J. Anaya for the opportunity to read your book. This was a good read. I thought this book had potential. Hope was an okay character. I wish there was more scenes between Tie and herself because their relationship is really interesting. This book was at times boring, and it made me lose interest as well. However, I think the book picked up near the end of the story, so I am curious about how the second book will be. Can't wait to read book 2. Overall, an okay read.
Actual Rating: 3.25
Thank you C.J. Anaya for the opportunity to read your book. This was a good read. I thought this book had potential. Hope was an okay character. I wish there was more scenes between Tie and herself because their relationship is really interesting. This book was at times boring, and it made me lose interest as well. However, I think the book picked up near the end of the story, so I am curious about how the second book will be. Can't wait to read book 2. Overall, an okay read.
August 6, 2014
Hope is not like other teenage girls. She has the power to heal and even her best friend Angie doesn't know this secret. Hope’s father is the chief surgeon at the local hospital and although he feels it’s imperative to Hope’s safety that her special talent is kept secret he lets her help him at the hospital. It fulfils her to save people’s lives and help ease their pain.
When new boys Tie and Victor join the school Hope is strangely attracted to them and she starts to have flashbacks of another life.
What a great YA Fantasy read. Suitable for the younger side of young adult from 13 on.
I liked that Hope was strong and resilient. She was very mature and thought of herself as being a little boring. And then we have Angie the crazy, outgoing best friend. They counter balance each other perfectly and their friendship was very natural.
I liked how Hope managed her attraction to both Tie and Victor, the new boys with looks that made every girl swoon. As the boys characters developed they had me jumping back and forward between team Tie and team Victor.
The small glimpses of Hope’s old world and the cliffhanger ending made me very eager to read the next instalment in this series.
A perfect blend of Fantasy, Mythology and Teen Romance.
I received this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review.
When new boys Tie and Victor join the school Hope is strangely attracted to them and she starts to have flashbacks of another life.
What a great YA Fantasy read. Suitable for the younger side of young adult from 13 on.
I liked that Hope was strong and resilient. She was very mature and thought of herself as being a little boring. And then we have Angie the crazy, outgoing best friend. They counter balance each other perfectly and their friendship was very natural.
I liked how Hope managed her attraction to both Tie and Victor, the new boys with looks that made every girl swoon. As the boys characters developed they had me jumping back and forward between team Tie and team Victor.
The small glimpses of Hope’s old world and the cliffhanger ending made me very eager to read the next instalment in this series.
A perfect blend of Fantasy, Mythology and Teen Romance.
I received this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review.
March 23, 2015
**I recieved this book by the author in exchange for an honest review**
Oh wow seriously I'm in shock with that ending. Need to pull myself together to write this review. Don't even know where to begin. God that was bloody good. What a fantastic ending.
okay so when i first started reading this book I was like oh boy another predictable teen romance new guy/guys in school girl is different la de la. But and that is a huge but after a few pages more I realised this book was so much more. Her charaters just sort of brought the story to life. Hope, Tie, Angie and Victor are just great characters I fell for there loveable charm right away and was pulled into this story with its quite unique plotline. Yes some of this book is a bit predictable but it doesn't take away from the amazing characters which I sort of thought pulled me in and kept me reading
I've loved this book through and through and I've heard people mention a second book after this one and I'd quite happily buy the second book well if I want to know what happens I'll need to beware has an awesome cliffhanger ending.
if you like books that are very YA and love a good character and good storyline then you'd most likely enjoy reading this. I know I totally loved it.
Oh wow seriously I'm in shock with that ending. Need to pull myself together to write this review. Don't even know where to begin. God that was bloody good. What a fantastic ending.
okay so when i first started reading this book I was like oh boy another predictable teen romance new guy/guys in school girl is different la de la. But and that is a huge but after a few pages more I realised this book was so much more. Her charaters just sort of brought the story to life. Hope, Tie, Angie and Victor are just great characters I fell for there loveable charm right away and was pulled into this story with its quite unique plotline. Yes some of this book is a bit predictable but it doesn't take away from the amazing characters which I sort of thought pulled me in and kept me reading
I've loved this book through and through and I've heard people mention a second book after this one and I'd quite happily buy the second book well if I want to know what happens I'll need to beware has an awesome cliffhanger ending.
if you like books that are very YA and love a good character and good storyline then you'd most likely enjoy reading this. I know I totally loved it.
August 23, 2015
Actual rating 4.5
buddy read: https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
Wow this was good.
Spoilers:
buddy read: https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
Wow this was good.
Spoilers:
September 3, 2016
I absolutely loved this book and can't wait to read book two. The characters are awesome and they grab you from the beginning. This is a unique healer story with a unique mythological twist. If you enjoy YA paranormal fantasy with mythological themes you'll love this book and the series. If you enjoy captivating characters that are uniquely their own you'll love this story. The author really does an amazing job and has made it into one of my favorite author lists. Thank you CJ Anaya for an awesome story.
September 15, 2016
I got a minute ahead on my review reading and slipped this one in. I really needed a change of genre scenery so I thought this looked good. It's paranormal YA and I really liked it. :) The pacing was fast- like the whole book spans a few days in time. It ended all hanging over a cliff-ish so now I'm equally annoyed and desperate to read the next one. But, alas, I have no time right now to pick up the next book so I'll have to wait. I will definitely be reading this whole series though. It's just a matter of time.
Content: mild swearing
Content: mild swearing
May 13, 2014
Hope tries to be a normal, average teenager, but she conceals a deep secret. A secret, if discovered, that can bring danger to her and those she loves.
This is not your average teenage, paranormal novel. The storyline is dynamic and believable, the characters endearing. It mixes modern times with mythology in a way that keeps you turning pages for more.
I couldn't believe the Book ended! I cannot wait for the next installment in the trilogy.
This is not your average teenage, paranormal novel. The storyline is dynamic and believable, the characters endearing. It mixes modern times with mythology in a way that keeps you turning pages for more.
I couldn't believe the Book ended! I cannot wait for the next installment in the trilogy.
July 11, 2016
(I received a copy from the author, In exchange for an honest review.)
I didn't love the main character in this, but she was okay.
This struggled to keep my interest, so there were times where I felt a bit bored. It dragged slightly in areas for me because of it unfortunately. Overall though, it wasn't bad.
I didn't love the main character in this, but she was okay.
This struggled to keep my interest, so there were times where I felt a bit bored. It dragged slightly in areas for me because of it unfortunately. Overall though, it wasn't bad.
March 17, 2023
This book had a fun, casual way about it despite a lot of pretty tense situations. It started quickly and kept me riveted until the end, though I'm not typically one for fantasy (or mythology). I look forward to the rest of the books in the series!
Want to read
July 9, 2020💝FREE on iBooks today (7/31/2018)!💝
September 27, 2015
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read this free digital edition for an honest review!
Hope is a normal teenager in a normal school with a normal best friend, so she thinks. She, on the other hand is the furthest thing from normal. She is a a person that can heal others by connecting to their “life forces” and
showing their cell what needs to be done to heal themselves. She is in hiding with her father, who is a doctor at the local hospital. She finds it difficult to be around others that are hurting without helping them. Her father struggles to keep her reigned in because of his overwhelming fears of being found out for her abilities. But even with everything he has done to keep them off the grid, she is sought out and discovered.
This was a really great story and a very quick read. It was one of those, that every time I thought I was at a stopping point, it drew me back in with a “No, don’t go” moment. I loved the characters. They were totally believable in a fantastical fictional way. Even though it is obviously fiction, I liked that literary mythology was inserted. The descriptions used are tangible. I could really see the black cherry blossom and the colors of Hope’s dress bleeding from black to red in Hope’s flashbacks with Musubi-no-kami. I enjoy reading things that make me want to look it up and see if it’s on track. I learned about Japanese mythological characters including Nekomata and the Japanese Deities. I felt so many emotions radiating throughout the whole story. I felt true pain for the sadness and feelings of defeat Hope deals with when it comes to Kirby. I felt the excitement with the underlying fear of meeting Tie and Victor. I felt how overwhelmed Hope must feel at the knowledge of her true heritage. I connected with Tie and felt strongly where he should be in Hope’s life. I see Victor as very stiff which makes perfect sense when it is revealed who he is in the ultimate scheme of thing. I think Angela is amazing and I find it interesting that after the accident she experiences when they are young, she becomes withdrawn at times and as Hope details, a “germaphobe.”
There are many instances in the book that I would pull up a note and say, “who is this person in the bigger picture.” I would go back and forth from what I was reading to what I had read and have aha or how did I miss that moments. I stayed intrigued and involved throughout the whole book. Great Job!
Hint to those reading this, you will not get all of the answers you want. The questions are left to be followed up in the series. It does not come all tied up with a pretty bow, but it is worth it!
Hope is a normal teenager in a normal school with a normal best friend, so she thinks. She, on the other hand is the furthest thing from normal. She is a a person that can heal others by connecting to their “life forces” and
showing their cell what needs to be done to heal themselves. She is in hiding with her father, who is a doctor at the local hospital. She finds it difficult to be around others that are hurting without helping them. Her father struggles to keep her reigned in because of his overwhelming fears of being found out for her abilities. But even with everything he has done to keep them off the grid, she is sought out and discovered.
This was a really great story and a very quick read. It was one of those, that every time I thought I was at a stopping point, it drew me back in with a “No, don’t go” moment. I loved the characters. They were totally believable in a fantastical fictional way. Even though it is obviously fiction, I liked that literary mythology was inserted. The descriptions used are tangible. I could really see the black cherry blossom and the colors of Hope’s dress bleeding from black to red in Hope’s flashbacks with Musubi-no-kami. I enjoy reading things that make me want to look it up and see if it’s on track. I learned about Japanese mythological characters including Nekomata and the Japanese Deities. I felt so many emotions radiating throughout the whole story. I felt true pain for the sadness and feelings of defeat Hope deals with when it comes to Kirby. I felt the excitement with the underlying fear of meeting Tie and Victor. I felt how overwhelmed Hope must feel at the knowledge of her true heritage. I connected with Tie and felt strongly where he should be in Hope’s life. I see Victor as very stiff which makes perfect sense when it is revealed who he is in the ultimate scheme of thing. I think Angela is amazing and I find it interesting that after the accident she experiences when they are young, she becomes withdrawn at times and as Hope details, a “germaphobe.”
There are many instances in the book that I would pull up a note and say, “who is this person in the bigger picture.” I would go back and forth from what I was reading to what I had read and have aha or how did I miss that moments. I stayed intrigued and involved throughout the whole book. Great Job!
Hint to those reading this, you will not get all of the answers you want. The questions are left to be followed up in the series. It does not come all tied up with a pretty bow, but it is worth it!
May 26, 2016
**Also posted on my YA Book Blog
I received this book for free from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I give this 3.5 stars.
So, in the end, I enjoyed it, but it took me a while to get there and this book is not without issues.
The book that I started to read felt like a completely different book from the one I finished reading. The beginning led me towards this present day government conspiracy possibly religious oriented story. Which was not what this was at all. Which I am actually kind of glad about, but it made the book a little disjointed. There was this sense that the author wrote the first half of this, then left it alone for a year and came back to continue jt, forgetting where she'd originally been going with it. I wish she'd been less focused on how paranoid about the gov't Hope had been, because it threw me when we got to all this mythology stuff.
Then there was the insta love. The author tried really hard to make it NOT insta love, or at least explainable, but it was there all the same. And a love triangle (which eventually becomes a quartet, but regardless). And the main girl has never kissed a boy, because thats the popular trend right now. And she doesn't see how to gorgeous men could be in love with her. Blah blah blah.
That being sais, the romance was what made this work as a story. It wasn't all "making out with hot guys twenty four seven" and it was interesting because of the rich mythology (a lot of ehich I didn't know which is cool and original for me!) though the whole "belonging" to someone like that is a little annoying for me. The opposing choices in male leads for Hope were at least different e.ough that I appreciated who they were in relation to each otger and their connection to Hope. Even if Tie is a pain and Victor is superior.
I LOVED the relationship of Angie and Hope. They were nicely balanced, if a little cliched in their roles. Angie was fun and quirky and very entertaining. Their bond was sweet and very natural. I also liked the overprotective dad, always overreacting and then not overreacting because the situation DEFINITELY warranted it in the end.
So I guess what I'm saying is, don't read this if you don't like romance. If you do, be aware that this takes a little time to get into. It's a reasonably well written books, though there are some formatting issues and sometimes it's a little stereotypical. I would recommend this and I will read the second when I have time.
I received this book for free from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I give this 3.5 stars.
So, in the end, I enjoyed it, but it took me a while to get there and this book is not without issues.
The book that I started to read felt like a completely different book from the one I finished reading. The beginning led me towards this present day government conspiracy possibly religious oriented story. Which was not what this was at all. Which I am actually kind of glad about, but it made the book a little disjointed. There was this sense that the author wrote the first half of this, then left it alone for a year and came back to continue jt, forgetting where she'd originally been going with it. I wish she'd been less focused on how paranoid about the gov't Hope had been, because it threw me when we got to all this mythology stuff.
Then there was the insta love. The author tried really hard to make it NOT insta love, or at least explainable, but it was there all the same. And a love triangle (which eventually becomes a quartet, but regardless). And the main girl has never kissed a boy, because thats the popular trend right now. And she doesn't see how to gorgeous men could be in love with her. Blah blah blah.
That being sais, the romance was what made this work as a story. It wasn't all "making out with hot guys twenty four seven" and it was interesting because of the rich mythology (a lot of ehich I didn't know which is cool and original for me!) though the whole "belonging" to someone like that is a little annoying for me. The opposing choices in male leads for Hope were at least different e.ough that I appreciated who they were in relation to each otger and their connection to Hope. Even if Tie is a pain and Victor is superior.
I LOVED the relationship of Angie and Hope. They were nicely balanced, if a little cliched in their roles. Angie was fun and quirky and very entertaining. Their bond was sweet and very natural. I also liked the overprotective dad, always overreacting and then not overreacting because the situation DEFINITELY warranted it in the end.
So I guess what I'm saying is, don't read this if you don't like romance. If you do, be aware that this takes a little time to get into. It's a reasonably well written books, though there are some formatting issues and sometimes it's a little stereotypical. I would recommend this and I will read the second when I have time.
September 1, 2014
***I received the eBook free as a review copy from the author in exchange for an honest review***
I did it again. I read a book thinking it was a standalone, then despairing because it was part of a series. Though not in the way you think, no, I loved this book, which is why with such an amazing but killer ending I am desperate for the sequel that is yet to be released! Anyone who knows me personally will understand I am not a patient person, but I will wait (somewhat patiently) for the sequel because I need to know what happens next in this thrilling story.
It follows the journey of Hope, a girl who is anything but ordinary. With a gift that meant she could heal almost anyone instantly I was curious to see the way she used it and how this then affected her character. She is kind and selfless; thinking of others before herself (even when she doesn’t realise it) and if I was in her position I could only hope I’d have the same traits. However it didn’t get to a point where it was unbelievable, and this made it easier to relate.
I also loved the way her more “normal” teenager side shone through with the arrival of Tie and Victor. Tie and Victor *heartfelt sign* couldn’t be more different; Tie being the tortured soul who does not suffer in silence, and Victor the earnest prince who sweeps you off your feet; however saying that I can’t say I’ve picked a side. I’m usually the first to judge characters, especially new love interests, picking sides and rarely shifting them but I was going back and forth on this one, and it was a refreshing change.
It helped that there’s a lot more to their story than meets the eye, and even at the end of the book you don’t know everything. They play a part in the much bigger picture Hope didn’t even know she was a part of, and hold great influence. Hope can’t deny this about them but she still manages to hold her own when everything/everyone is trying to coerce her to do this or that.
Told from her POV I was captivated from the very start of the book, all the way to the last page. The Healer is a very quick read that mixes mythology and fantasy creating a great dynamic what will leave you wanting more.
Posted on: http://enchantedbyya.blogspot.co.uk/
I did it again. I read a book thinking it was a standalone, then despairing because it was part of a series. Though not in the way you think, no, I loved this book, which is why with such an amazing but killer ending I am desperate for the sequel that is yet to be released! Anyone who knows me personally will understand I am not a patient person, but I will wait (somewhat patiently) for the sequel because I need to know what happens next in this thrilling story.
It follows the journey of Hope, a girl who is anything but ordinary. With a gift that meant she could heal almost anyone instantly I was curious to see the way she used it and how this then affected her character. She is kind and selfless; thinking of others before herself (even when she doesn’t realise it) and if I was in her position I could only hope I’d have the same traits. However it didn’t get to a point where it was unbelievable, and this made it easier to relate.
I also loved the way her more “normal” teenager side shone through with the arrival of Tie and Victor. Tie and Victor *heartfelt sign* couldn’t be more different; Tie being the tortured soul who does not suffer in silence, and Victor the earnest prince who sweeps you off your feet; however saying that I can’t say I’ve picked a side. I’m usually the first to judge characters, especially new love interests, picking sides and rarely shifting them but I was going back and forth on this one, and it was a refreshing change.
It helped that there’s a lot more to their story than meets the eye, and even at the end of the book you don’t know everything. They play a part in the much bigger picture Hope didn’t even know she was a part of, and hold great influence. Hope can’t deny this about them but she still manages to hold her own when everything/everyone is trying to coerce her to do this or that.
Told from her POV I was captivated from the very start of the book, all the way to the last page. The Healer is a very quick read that mixes mythology and fantasy creating a great dynamic what will leave you wanting more.
Posted on: http://enchantedbyya.blogspot.co.uk/
January 20, 2020
Too much mystery, too many love triangles and too few answers. The premise of a healer
The sequel is not in my library and I wasn't thrilled about a dream world. And I was very skeptical about a character named Musubi which is a Japanese rice ball. So I am abandoning this series after 1 book.
Likes:
* Hope's healing powers
* Closeness between Hope and her father
* Hope supporting Angie, her friend
Dislikes:
* Hope's controlling, over-protective father
With-reservations:
death and dying, car accidents, murder, cancer, kidnapping
The sequel is not in my library and I wasn't thrilled about a dream world. And I was very skeptical about a character named Musubi which is a Japanese rice ball. So I am abandoning this series after 1 book.
Likes:
* Hope's healing powers
* Closeness between Hope and her father
* Hope supporting Angie, her friend
Dislikes:
* Hope's controlling, over-protective father
With-reservations:
death and dying, car accidents, murder, cancer, kidnapping
July 15, 2015
This book was incredibly interesting and well paced. I first started reading it while on the treadmill and I was so wrapped up in the story that before I knew it I had walked over five miles and the book was done! Not only was I incredibly sore :-) but I immediately wanted to read the next book in the series. That to me speaks of a keeper of a book. A few days later I decided to read the book again. I was happy to see that the story held up to a second read through and I noticed a lot more detail that didn't stand out as much during my first fast read through.
The story is about a girl named Hope and her incredible ability to heal. The process by which she effects this healing is well thought out and described in a way that is believable. There are also tie ins to Japanese mythology and the normal teenage issues in any YA book. What I loved most was the relationship with Hope's best friend Angie. It was exactly like what my relationship with my best friend would have been if we had grown up together instead off meeting right after High School. The back and forth between the two girls is so much like my relationship that I immediately had to call my best friend when I was done with the book.
I am really looking forward to the next book in this series and I know that it will be just as well thought out and engaging as this one was. :-)
The story is about a girl named Hope and her incredible ability to heal. The process by which she effects this healing is well thought out and described in a way that is believable. There are also tie ins to Japanese mythology and the normal teenage issues in any YA book. What I loved most was the relationship with Hope's best friend Angie. It was exactly like what my relationship with my best friend would have been if we had grown up together instead off meeting right after High School. The back and forth between the two girls is so much like my relationship that I immediately had to call my best friend when I was done with the book.
I am really looking forward to the next book in this series and I know that it will be just as well thought out and engaging as this one was. :-)
April 29, 2016
I was so not normal.
I really enjoyed this book! It is different than anything I've read before. I loved all the mythology and Japanese tie ins. Hope is not your average high school girl. She has a secret that she has been hiding from the whole world. But all of that is about to change when a couple of new guys show up at school.
I think I was just ready for something to finally happen and sick to death of hiding who I was and what I was capable of. Instead of ignoring my stalker, I was tempted to turn around and confront this faceless observer.
Hope finds out her life force has a destiny, one she is not sure she wants to follow. With the help of her dad, a fiercely loyal and sarcastic best friend, and a 10 year old boy who has been fighting for his life and is like a brother to Hope, all of their lives are about to get turned upside down.
I look forward to reading the next book!
February 13, 2015
The Healer is an amazing book. In a fast-growing market of young adult/new adult literature, it's often difficult to know what to pick. If you're looking for an amazing, unique, stand above the crowd novel, this is it.
The Healer was so much more than I expected. Original characters, fleshed-out and lovable, a mature, strong story with good pacing, keeps your attention all the way through the book. I will be obtaining and reading the next one... I'll read anything C.J. Anaya pens.
Looking for great things from this author.
I highly recommend this one!
A copy of this book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you C.J.!
The Healer was so much more than I expected. Original characters, fleshed-out and lovable, a mature, strong story with good pacing, keeps your attention all the way through the book. I will be obtaining and reading the next one... I'll read anything C.J. Anaya pens.
Looking for great things from this author.
I highly recommend this one!
A copy of this book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you C.J.!
March 8, 2016
First of all I would like to thank the author for sending me a copy of this book.
I will begin by saying that this was a very good book. Some of the best things were that the characters were all very likable. Especially, her best friend. She was AMAZING and she made me laugh a lot. I feel that pointing that out is important because now days in many YA book the best friend is almost always a crappy person and makes me wonder why anybody would want to deal with them. In this book the main character Hope knows that she is a healer. However, she finds out that there is more to her and her story.
I will begin by saying that this was a very good book. Some of the best things were that the characters were all very likable. Especially, her best friend. She was AMAZING and she made me laugh a lot. I feel that pointing that out is important because now days in many YA book the best friend is almost always a crappy person and makes me wonder why anybody would want to deal with them. In this book the main character Hope knows that she is a healer. However, she finds out that there is more to her and her story.
October 11, 2018
I did not really like it much the first time cause a lot of things just seemed too predictable. The plots were all so common and the love triangle involving gods behaving like any teenager felt just silly. But when I read it this time I likes it. The writing isn't really bad and once I got over my earlier problems it didn't seem as such a bad book. Infact I was enjoying myself way more than I had expected. Bit the second book is what is truly worth reading. So don't give up on this series if you did not like this book as much. The next one isn't really as confusing and is quite entertaining.
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