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Ada Palomino #1
Veiled
Death. It's something that Ada Palomino has always known so well, having grown up in a house of horrors, surrounded by a family plagued by ghosts and demons and things that go bump in the night. But after the sudden and tragic death of her mother two years ago, death has never felt so personal. Or so close. Now eighteen, Ada is trying to move on with her life, and the last month of summer holds nothing but sunshine and promises with her first year at a Portland design school just around the bend. That is, until her increasingly violent and realistic dreams, dreams of other worlds, of portals and veils where her mother is tortured and souls bleed for mercy, start to blend into reality. Ada has to lean on her older sister, Perry, to try and make sense of it all, but even then, she's never felt more alone. Then there's Jay. Tall, handsome, and deeply mysterious, Jay would be just another stranger, a familiar face on the bus, if it wasn't for the fact that Ada has met him before. Every night. In every single dream. And the more that Ada is drawn to him in both worlds, the more she's in danger of losing everything--including her heart, and her very soul. Contains mature themes.
398 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 28, 2016
369 people are currently reading
6225 people want to read
About the author
Karina Halle
122 books19.6k followersKarina Halle is a screenwriter, former music & travel journalist, and the New York Times bestselling author of Grave Matter, Blood Orange, & The Royals Next Door, as well as 80 other romances across all sub-genres, ranging from spicy rom coms to gothic horror and dark fantasy. Needless to say, whatever you're into, she's probably written an HEA for it.
When she's not traveling, she, her husband, and their pup Perry, split their time between a possibly haunted 120 year-old house in Victoria, BC, and their condo in Los Angeles.
When she's not traveling, she, her husband, and their pup Perry, split their time between a possibly haunted 120 year-old house in Victoria, BC, and their condo in Los Angeles.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 485 reviews
August 18, 2016
I swallow hard and my heart begins to thud. It’s not my imagination. I’m not asleep.
Karina Halle at her best.
Halle is back on form. After loving her Sins & Needles trilogy and the spin-offs, I went through a series of disappointing reads from her. Love, in English wasn't my thing, Where Sea Meets Sky was an early DNF, and even the Experiment in Terror series didn't quite hit the spot. But this EiT spin-off featuring Ada Palomino is all kinds of creepy goodness, perfect for old fans and new readers alike.
Seriously, this book is scary. Ada's story was far more terrifying to me than that of her sister, Perry. It uses a lot of traditional horror elements - the voice in the closet, the thing that's there and then isn't - but Halle crafts the tension perfectly, playing with the lines of dreams and reality until you're unsure what's a nightmare and what's really lurking in the darkness of Ada's bedroom.
I was pleasantly surprised to discover that Veiled wasn't as romantic as I'd anticipated. It's being called a paranormal romance, but I'm inclined to call it "urban fantasy with a love story". Sure, there's the typical descriptions of male hotness, but it is excruciatingly slow burn (I mean this in a good way). No instalove - no insta anything, in fact - and a whole lot of ghostly plot to make this a book about more than young lovers.
There were many things I thought the author captured well. She remembers that Ada is a young woman grieving for her mother, and portrays that grief without melodrama. I also felt melancholy along with Ada when she discovers that an old friend is not what she thought - how difficult it must be to count on someone for so long and realise you never really knew each other that well at all.
I foresee fans of the usual New Adult romances coming into this book with certain expectations and not having them met. It's not typical of the genre, and actually does many great things that have nothing to do with romance and have everything to do with being a young woman with problems, heartache and, yes, a sex drive.
Also, it's funny.
If you find words like "twatwaffle" funny.
Which I do.
Creepy, sexy and really enjoyable.
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August 11, 2016
5 Stars!!
I’m a big fan of this author. I love her writing, her vivid storytelling and her well-developed characters. Her stories always keep me at the edge of my seat for one reason or another and her newest release did exactly that. Like many readers I’ve heard about her famous PNR/urban fantasy series “EIT”, but I’ve never been interested in reading it since PNR is not exactly my genre of choice. I can count on my fingers the number of PNR I’ve read in the past few years. Needless to say I was hesitant to pick Karina Halle’s newest book, but dayum I’m so happy did, because I enjoyed it tremendously.
Ada Palomino is a 18 years old girl who lives in Portland, Oregon. She lives only with her father after her mother died several years ago and her older sister Perry married and moved to Seattle. She’s a fashion blogger and she’s about to start college in a month. Like any teenager, Ada wants to live a normal life, but she’s pretty sure her future doesn’t hold the “normal” stuff since she has the power to see dead people and demons. Needless to say she still struggles to come to terms that she’s “a little” different.
Even if her mother passed away years ago, Ada still misses her. She starts to have strange dreams who in a very short time become nightmares. In her dreams she sees a guy named Jay who according to him is her protector. Everything starts to change in Ada’s life when crazy things start to happen around her. In order to survive she will have to learn how to fight all the demons who want her and how to rely on Jay.
'Veiled' was such an awesome, gripping read! I honestly couldn’t put it down even if at times it was creepy as hell. My Gawd, it kept me at the edge of my seat and it made my heart race like no other. Karina Halle’s newest release was a fantastic blend of horror, dark suspense and steam. I loved Ada and Jay’s story. It was well written and so, so intriguing. From beginning until the end I was so engrossed in Ada’s dark, yet magical world. I couldn’t read fast enough!
I loved Ada’s character. Her portrayal was fantastically done. I liked how witty she was and I loved her feistiness and her sense of humor. The way she finds he inner strength was fantastically done and the way she wanted to fight for her loved ones and protect them was admirable and heartwarming.
Jay, the sexy ginger, Ada’s “guardian of the non-angelic kind” was sexy, manly, protective and so very good for our heroine. His protectiveness was sexy as hell and the way he was with Ada as the story progressed so swoon-worthy.
These two were perfect for each other and I simply loved the slow burn relationship between them. Karina Halle did it perfectly and I’m sure like me you will fell for these two as a couple. They were deliciously sexy and so very intense at times.
There weren’t many supportive characters and I honestly didn’t “need” many since Ada and Jay were enough for me in every way.
Overall, 'Veiled' was a fantastic read! I highly recommend reading it even if paranormal reads are not your thing, because this was more than that in every way. I really hope Ada and Jay’s story will continue!
"Sometimes the darkness is our friend."
I’m a big fan of this author. I love her writing, her vivid storytelling and her well-developed characters. Her stories always keep me at the edge of my seat for one reason or another and her newest release did exactly that. Like many readers I’ve heard about her famous PNR/urban fantasy series “EIT”, but I’ve never been interested in reading it since PNR is not exactly my genre of choice. I can count on my fingers the number of PNR I’ve read in the past few years. Needless to say I was hesitant to pick Karina Halle’s newest book, but dayum I’m so happy did, because I enjoyed it tremendously.
"You have a fight ahead of you, one that goes far beyond what you've seen in your dreams."
Ada Palomino is a 18 years old girl who lives in Portland, Oregon. She lives only with her father after her mother died several years ago and her older sister Perry married and moved to Seattle. She’s a fashion blogger and she’s about to start college in a month. Like any teenager, Ada wants to live a normal life, but she’s pretty sure her future doesn’t hold the “normal” stuff since she has the power to see dead people and demons. Needless to say she still struggles to come to terms that she’s “a little” different.
“When you wake up from a nightmare, the reality comforts you. When you wake up from the best dream ever, reality is a burden, a slap-in-the-face reminder that you could feel this, you could have this, but you don’t and you won’t.”
Even if her mother passed away years ago, Ada still misses her. She starts to have strange dreams who in a very short time become nightmares. In her dreams she sees a guy named Jay who according to him is her protector. Everything starts to change in Ada’s life when crazy things start to happen around her. In order to survive she will have to learn how to fight all the demons who want her and how to rely on Jay.
“I don’t even really know who you are.”
“I’m the one who has your back, he says. And I’ve been watching you for a very, very long time.”
'Veiled' was such an awesome, gripping read! I honestly couldn’t put it down even if at times it was creepy as hell. My Gawd, it kept me at the edge of my seat and it made my heart race like no other. Karina Halle’s newest release was a fantastic blend of horror, dark suspense and steam. I loved Ada and Jay’s story. It was well written and so, so intriguing. From beginning until the end I was so engrossed in Ada’s dark, yet magical world. I couldn’t read fast enough!
I loved Ada’s character. Her portrayal was fantastically done. I liked how witty she was and I loved her feistiness and her sense of humor. The way she finds he inner strength was fantastically done and the way she wanted to fight for her loved ones and protect them was admirable and heartwarming.
“Fear gives people their humanity. Fear of loss. I fear nothing.”
Jay, the sexy ginger, Ada’s “guardian of the non-angelic kind” was sexy, manly, protective and so very good for our heroine. His protectiveness was sexy as hell and the way he was with Ada as the story progressed so swoon-worthy.
These two were perfect for each other and I simply loved the slow burn relationship between them. Karina Halle did it perfectly and I’m sure like me you will fell for these two as a couple. They were deliciously sexy and so very intense at times.
There weren’t many supportive characters and I honestly didn’t “need” many since Ada and Jay were enough for me in every way.
Overall, 'Veiled' was a fantastic read! I highly recommend reading it even if paranormal reads are not your thing, because this was more than that in every way. I really hope Ada and Jay’s story will continue!
"The past doesn't define us. It's what we do here and now, today that does. This world was built on second chances."
July 1, 2021
Rounded 3.75 stars and with this one I’ve read all horror romance books of the dearest KH!
Best things about this book are returning of my favorite heroes and heroines from the previous series. When I read the parts about Dex ( who is one of my best book boyfriend; Robert Downey Jr’s mid thirties and skipped the rehab and Marvel movies version meets Bruce Willis’s David Addison character on Moonlight ) and Perry ( wonderful heroine, fights bravely against her insecurities and inner demons and great taste of music. Yay Bad Religion!)
I felt like I finally saw my best imaginary friends that I missed so much!
Don’t forget to Devils series’ favorite couple Dawn and Sage Knightly and of course their ultra skilled manager Jacob!
And of course our new hero is another Jacob (this is definition of reddish guys, who control the passages between universes and guards people who are able to see the creatures and existences from outer worlds ) Yes, I’m talking about a Jay who is gorgeous, loyal, passionate hero. I always find interesting that KH chose to give him name as Silas Black ( I always thought he may be related Sirius Black from Harry Potter :)))
But the worst thing about the book was unfortunately our heroine. Because I never considered Ada,Perry’s little, posh sister as a great kinda heroine that I’m able to like . I only liked her at fifth book of EIT when Perry has been possessed by demons, she has called and brought back Dex to save her. But my sympathy vaporized after the other books.
I gave all my points for great and captivating writing and cameos of my favorite heroes and heroines. I think there are any other books about Ada, I’m not positive to read them. And KH knows it well so she stopped writing about her. But I never say no any comebacks from EIT! Because when I’m reading this book I realized that I missed Dex and Perry so much💕
Best things about this book are returning of my favorite heroes and heroines from the previous series. When I read the parts about Dex ( who is one of my best book boyfriend; Robert Downey Jr’s mid thirties and skipped the rehab and Marvel movies version meets Bruce Willis’s David Addison character on Moonlight ) and Perry ( wonderful heroine, fights bravely against her insecurities and inner demons and great taste of music. Yay Bad Religion!)
I felt like I finally saw my best imaginary friends that I missed so much!
Don’t forget to Devils series’ favorite couple Dawn and Sage Knightly and of course their ultra skilled manager Jacob!
And of course our new hero is another Jacob (this is definition of reddish guys, who control the passages between universes and guards people who are able to see the creatures and existences from outer worlds ) Yes, I’m talking about a Jay who is gorgeous, loyal, passionate hero. I always find interesting that KH chose to give him name as Silas Black ( I always thought he may be related Sirius Black from Harry Potter :)))
But the worst thing about the book was unfortunately our heroine. Because I never considered Ada,Perry’s little, posh sister as a great kinda heroine that I’m able to like . I only liked her at fifth book of EIT when Perry has been possessed by demons, she has called and brought back Dex to save her. But my sympathy vaporized after the other books.
I gave all my points for great and captivating writing and cameos of my favorite heroes and heroines. I think there are any other books about Ada, I’m not positive to read them. And KH knows it well so she stopped writing about her. But I never say no any comebacks from EIT! Because when I’m reading this book I realized that I missed Dex and Perry so much💕
August 27, 2016
LIVE https://www.amazon.com/Veiled-Karina-...
5 STARS (IN LOVE WITH THIS BOOK <3)
I've waiting years for this book! Im a fan of EIT and Karina told us that we would finally have Ada's story I was more than excited!! And once I had it and started reading I was emotional in the beginning because it brought back all the EIT feelings! I'm so passionate for this series and now Veiled! Karina delivers a compelling, creepy, super sexy, intense with some funny moments story!
And Ada and Jay have the perfect chemistry! These two seriously they are amazing together, I loved every part of their moments together! Jay is dark, hot and mysterious and Ada is the perfect heroine! I've had a crush on her from EIT I loved her smart mouth and the fact that she is strong!!
The storyline for one more time is so interesting I love how things developed. For something that happened Ada is still devastated. And now she starts to see and feel things and she is worried. But this is where Jay comes to help her! Ada is special and the demons want her for some reason.
Veiled can be read as a standalone so don't hesitate to buy it because you think if you haven't read EIT you will have problem!!
Beta copy gratefully received from the author in exchange for an honest opinion
5 STARS (IN LOVE WITH THIS BOOK <3)
I've waiting years for this book! Im a fan of EIT and Karina told us that we would finally have Ada's story I was more than excited!! And once I had it and started reading I was emotional in the beginning because it brought back all the EIT feelings! I'm so passionate for this series and now Veiled! Karina delivers a compelling, creepy, super sexy, intense with some funny moments story!
And Ada and Jay have the perfect chemistry! These two seriously they are amazing together, I loved every part of their moments together! Jay is dark, hot and mysterious and Ada is the perfect heroine! I've had a crush on her from EIT I loved her smart mouth and the fact that she is strong!!
The storyline for one more time is so interesting I love how things developed. For something that happened Ada is still devastated. And now she starts to see and feel things and she is worried. But this is where Jay comes to help her! Ada is special and the demons want her for some reason.
Veiled can be read as a standalone so don't hesitate to buy it because you think if you haven't read EIT you will have problem!!
Beta copy gratefully received from the author in exchange for an honest opinion
July 29, 2016
NOW LIVE!!! http://amzn.to/2atEqjl
5 stars!
"I feel like each day is leading me down a dark path I might not be able to come back from."
First off, YOU CAN READ VEILED WITHOUT HAVING READ EXPERIMENT IN TERROR. Wait, did you get that?? YOU CAN READ VEILED WITHOUT HAVING READ EXPERIMENT IN TERROR!!!
Okay, now that we have that out of the way, you're gonna read Veiled now, right??? Right?? (You'd better).
I first discovered Karina Halle when I saw a trusted reviewer on Goodreads review one of her Experiment in Terror books. So one day during jury duty I picked up Darkhouse and the rest is history. I fell in love. So when EIT ended and there was a possibility of an Ada book, I waited and hoped and dreamed. And it didn't come. When I gave up hope that Veiled would happen, something magic happened: Karina wrote it!
So I am beyond ecstatic we have Ada's story, it truly is a special gift to EIT fans and quite honestly, any Karina fan. I want ALL my friends to read this book!!!! Beware, because I will start pushing this one on you if I haven't started already.
"You have a fight ahead of you, one that goes far beyond what you've seen in your dreams."
Now let's get back on track. Veiled is the story of Ada Palamino, eighteen years old and already well aware of the fact that ghosts and demons haunt our world. After the death of her mother, two years later she is still reeling. Her nightmares become more vivid and strange things begin to happen around her. On top of this, a sexy ginger from her dreams pops up in real life, meant to be her guide and protector. As crazier stuff keeps happening, Ada must learn to find her inner strength and fight the demons surrounding her, figurative and literal.
"The past doesn't define us. It's what we do here and now, today that does. This world was built on second chances."
Veiled is equal parts scary, sexy and intense. This is a book where I resented needing to accomplish real world tasks because I wanted to constantly be in Ada and Jay's world! I also made the mistake reading the majority of this book at night, not a wise idea. I was pee in my pants terrified at some parts and wished I had my own sexy ginger to keep me safe and warm at night. Speaking of sexy gingers, leave it to Karina Halle to create a hot sexy GINGER that I swooned over. And I'm not even really attracted to gingers!!!! But Jay is the sexy, smoldery exception.
I loved the feel of this book, it was uniquely Ada if that makes any sense. This book was about Ada transitioning from a girl to a woman and finding her inner strength to fight for the people she loved. Ada overcame her fears and her demons, fighting for the side of good while trying to survive at the same time. Ada and Jay were perfect for each other, their romance sigh worthy. I would love to see more of the two of them, but I am happy enough for this book to have happened!!!
Again I would like to reiterate, Veiled can be read as a standalone despite technically being a spinoff book! You do not have to read the Experiment in Terror series first (unless you want to).
"You're destined for something great, Ada. I know this. And it's an honor to help see you through it."
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review
5 stars!
"I feel like each day is leading me down a dark path I might not be able to come back from."
First off, YOU CAN READ VEILED WITHOUT HAVING READ EXPERIMENT IN TERROR. Wait, did you get that?? YOU CAN READ VEILED WITHOUT HAVING READ EXPERIMENT IN TERROR!!!
Okay, now that we have that out of the way, you're gonna read Veiled now, right??? Right?? (You'd better).
I first discovered Karina Halle when I saw a trusted reviewer on Goodreads review one of her Experiment in Terror books. So one day during jury duty I picked up Darkhouse and the rest is history. I fell in love. So when EIT ended and there was a possibility of an Ada book, I waited and hoped and dreamed. And it didn't come. When I gave up hope that Veiled would happen, something magic happened: Karina wrote it!
So I am beyond ecstatic we have Ada's story, it truly is a special gift to EIT fans and quite honestly, any Karina fan. I want ALL my friends to read this book!!!! Beware, because I will start pushing this one on you if I haven't started already.
"You have a fight ahead of you, one that goes far beyond what you've seen in your dreams."
Now let's get back on track. Veiled is the story of Ada Palamino, eighteen years old and already well aware of the fact that ghosts and demons haunt our world. After the death of her mother, two years later she is still reeling. Her nightmares become more vivid and strange things begin to happen around her. On top of this, a sexy ginger from her dreams pops up in real life, meant to be her guide and protector. As crazier stuff keeps happening, Ada must learn to find her inner strength and fight the demons surrounding her, figurative and literal.
"The past doesn't define us. It's what we do here and now, today that does. This world was built on second chances."
Veiled is equal parts scary, sexy and intense. This is a book where I resented needing to accomplish real world tasks because I wanted to constantly be in Ada and Jay's world! I also made the mistake reading the majority of this book at night, not a wise idea. I was pee in my pants terrified at some parts and wished I had my own sexy ginger to keep me safe and warm at night. Speaking of sexy gingers, leave it to Karina Halle to create a hot sexy GINGER that I swooned over. And I'm not even really attracted to gingers!!!! But Jay is the sexy, smoldery exception.
I loved the feel of this book, it was uniquely Ada if that makes any sense. This book was about Ada transitioning from a girl to a woman and finding her inner strength to fight for the people she loved. Ada overcame her fears and her demons, fighting for the side of good while trying to survive at the same time. Ada and Jay were perfect for each other, their romance sigh worthy. I would love to see more of the two of them, but I am happy enough for this book to have happened!!!
Again I would like to reiterate, Veiled can be read as a standalone despite technically being a spinoff book! You do not have to read the Experiment in Terror series first (unless you want to).
"You're destined for something great, Ada. I know this. And it's an honor to help see you through it."
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review
July 30, 2016
★★★★★ 5 Stars ★★★★★
As an avid reader of the Experiment in Terror series, and having read and been familiar with these characters since 2012, I was absolutely in my element when I discovered that this highly anticipated novel would be written and published by author Karina Halle.
Fear not, however, as Veiled can be read as a complete standalone novel, and whilst I was already in love with Ada Palomino and her family, you will not be totally lost as everything you need to know to enjoy this story is explained very well here.
Ada is our young and witty heroine, she is a fashion blogger who is just about to start college, and is a little spitfire who has a good head on her shoulders, despite the fact that she sees dead people and demons. Luckily for her, she has her sister Perry and brother-in-law, Dex, to help her come to terms with the fact that she is a little different to most people her age.
Grieving the death of her mother, she is starting to have vivid nightmares which also include a gorgeous ginger guy named Jay, who turns out is her protector and the man to help guide her in her journey to slay demonic creatures.
Ada and Jay's romance is a slow delicious burn, that makes you want to keep reading. Jay was an enigma who kept his cards close to his chest, but made you swoon with his protectiveness and strong alpha characteristics, I loved them together and I would love to read more as their relationship develops.
Overall, I would say that this is a scary, but sexy read that will spook you out and make your heart flutter at the same time. If paranormal is not usually your thing, then I urge you to take a chance on this book because sometimes you just need to take a leap into the unknown and escape from reality for a while, and you might just fall in love with Ada and Jay as much as I did.
If you have read EiT, this is a little different, it's unique to Ada and whilst we do get appearances from our favourite characters, the focus really is on her, and if you haven't, and you do end up loving this book, then I do hope EiT gets more readership, because this whole series really does deserve great things.
Beta copy gratefully received from the author in exchange for an honest opinion
Images featured in this review were created by me using stock images either purchased from deposit photo or from free stock sites.
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"Sometimes the darkness is our friend."
As an avid reader of the Experiment in Terror series, and having read and been familiar with these characters since 2012, I was absolutely in my element when I discovered that this highly anticipated novel would be written and published by author Karina Halle.
Fear not, however, as Veiled can be read as a complete standalone novel, and whilst I was already in love with Ada Palomino and her family, you will not be totally lost as everything you need to know to enjoy this story is explained very well here.
Ada is our young and witty heroine, she is a fashion blogger who is just about to start college, and is a little spitfire who has a good head on her shoulders, despite the fact that she sees dead people and demons. Luckily for her, she has her sister Perry and brother-in-law, Dex, to help her come to terms with the fact that she is a little different to most people her age.
Grieving the death of her mother, she is starting to have vivid nightmares which also include a gorgeous ginger guy named Jay, who turns out is her protector and the man to help guide her in her journey to slay demonic creatures.
"I don't even really know who you are."
"I'm the one who has your back. And I've been watching you for a very, very long time."
Ada and Jay's romance is a slow delicious burn, that makes you want to keep reading. Jay was an enigma who kept his cards close to his chest, but made you swoon with his protectiveness and strong alpha characteristics, I loved them together and I would love to read more as their relationship develops.
Overall, I would say that this is a scary, but sexy read that will spook you out and make your heart flutter at the same time. If paranormal is not usually your thing, then I urge you to take a chance on this book because sometimes you just need to take a leap into the unknown and escape from reality for a while, and you might just fall in love with Ada and Jay as much as I did.
If you have read EiT, this is a little different, it's unique to Ada and whilst we do get appearances from our favourite characters, the focus really is on her, and if you haven't, and you do end up loving this book, then I do hope EiT gets more readership, because this whole series really does deserve great things.
Beta copy gratefully received from the author in exchange for an honest opinion
Images featured in this review were created by me using stock images either purchased from deposit photo or from free stock sites.
June 30, 2021
3.5 stars
This is the first book in a series, but this is a spin-off that takes place after the events in the 9th book of the Experiment in Terror series. You do need to read those books (starting with Darkhouse all the way through Dust to Dust) before starting this one.
It's been five and a half years since I read Dust to Dust, but I was still able to pick this right up without too many problems/questions. These books are about as close as I get to reading horror, which is something I generally avoid like the plague. Despite being decidedly creepy, I still like it despite all of that because these books definitely include adult-level relationships and romance. Granted, Ada is only 18 in this book, but it's very much a 'new adult' book instead of a 'young adult'.
I can't really explain this book without spoiling the original series, but I read this in a day. I am definitely going to continue on, but first I need to read the next books in the original series (Ghosted and Came Back Haunted) before I can read the next book in this series (Song for the Dead).
This is the first book in a series, but this is a spin-off that takes place after the events in the 9th book of the Experiment in Terror series. You do need to read those books (starting with Darkhouse all the way through Dust to Dust) before starting this one.
It's been five and a half years since I read Dust to Dust, but I was still able to pick this right up without too many problems/questions. These books are about as close as I get to reading horror, which is something I generally avoid like the plague. Despite being decidedly creepy, I still like it despite all of that because these books definitely include adult-level relationships and romance. Granted, Ada is only 18 in this book, but it's very much a 'new adult' book instead of a 'young adult'.
I can't really explain this book without spoiling the original series, but I read this in a day. I am definitely going to continue on, but first I need to read the next books in the original series (Ghosted and Came Back Haunted) before I can read the next book in this series (Song for the Dead).
August 29, 2016
As a fan of this author's work, I've always wanted to try her famous Experiment in Terror series, but I haven't found the guts to yet. After reading Veiled, I'm more inclined now to give that series a chance.
This was an intense, creepy, yet addicting read and it had some romance in it too. I took the word of others that I didn't need to have read the EiT series to follow this story and I'm happy to report they were right. I loved that even though I have not experienced Dex and Perry yet, I was given just enough to make me want to know their story too. For all of the fans of the EiT series, I'm sure they loved seeing Dex and Perry again.
"You have a fight ahead of you, one that goes far beyond what you've seen in your dreams."
Ada Palomino is the younger sister of Perry. She's eighteen now and is living with her father in Portland. Her mother died two years ago and they are all still grieving, but also trying to get back to normal, whatever that is. Ada is a fashion blogger and getting ready to go to college in a few weeks. Ada is gifted with the ability to see ghosts and demons just like Perry, her mother and even grandmother.
"A ginger, just as I had remembered, though he’s probably the sexiest, most enthralling male specimen I’ve ever seen."
Ada starts having dreams. Some are about her mother, some about a mystery guy named Jay. Others are down right frightening and always followed by three knocks and something dark. But when the nightmares become too much, Jay shows up to protect her. Later she finds out that Jay is what's known as a Jacob, a guardian of sorts. She knows from Perry's experience not to blindly trust Jacobs, but there's something about Jay that makes her feels safe.
Jay is there to train Ada on how to fight the demons and protect her at the same time. He's new at being a Jacob, but has Jacob (yes another Jacob whose name is Jacob) to go to for help. Jay and Jacob actually moved next door to Ada along with Sage and Dawn. As Jay and Ada begin to spend time together training and just surviving, feelings begin to develop. Their time together away from home, Oh My! I loved it! Serious swooning going on there. I loved them together.
"You're destined for something great, Ada. I know this. And it's an honor to help see you through it."
This book was very creepy at times, but it could have just been me. See, I just watched the Netflix original show "Strange Things" and I was expecting this book to be scary like that. In reality, I think I scared myself more than the book. It was more like watching an episode of Supernatural although I haven't seen one in a while. I loved this book!
As it's been said by so many, this is a spinoff from the EiT series, but you don't have to have read that series in order to follow or enjoy this one. Karina Halle mentions that she originally thought this would be a trilogy, but she's not sure if that will come to fruition. If she doesn't, then I'm okay with that and happy with the way things ended, BUT if she did write more of Ada and Jay I would jump all over those books.
I used to read murder mysteries, but moved away from those and have stayed in the romance genre for a while now. I've become a bit of a scaredy cat the older I get and have to take my scares in small doses. This was my first time to venture out again, but it was so worth it! I encourage anyone and everyone who are open to different genres to try this book.
October 24, 2016
4.5 stars
I wont do a full review on this one as there are many out there infinitely better than mine could be. But I will say a few things to give you a heads up in a way.
This is a creepy book but it's not horror. That said don't read it at night and alone. It still gave me goosebumps even if Karina herself has said it's mostly PNR. If you have not read her Experiment in Terror series I suggest dropping everything and reading it. This is a standalone and not depended on the series but it is a spin-off/continuation from it as it picks up two years after the last EiT book.
In my opinion, having read them all, if you plan on reading EIT or you're in the middle of it, finish it before you pick up this one. It contains spoilers from the last book. Not just the act that occurred but also a description of it.
Also this does NOT feel like an EIT book. If you have read the series and are a huge fan, don't expect the same vibe. This is completely and entirely Adas book. Of course Dex and Perry make an appearance but the plot, the adventure is wholly Adas. It's still the same world with the same elements but with some new twists. As usual I was gripped in it and fully engaged and invested.
Another excellent read from Karina Halle. I do hope she feels inspired to re-visit this world.
"When you wake up from a nightmare, the reality comforts you. When you wake up from the best dream ever, reality is a burden, a slap-in-the-face reminder that you could feel this, you could have this, but you don’t and you won’t."
“You are not Perry,” Jay says quickly, his gaze hard, piercing right into me. “You are not Pippa. You are Ada Palomino and your story is completely different. You are completely different. You have a fight ahead of you, one that goes far beyond what you’ve seen in your dreams.”
“And I am bound,” he says. “To watch and protect. To make you open your eyes. To teach you to fight back.”
"You're destined for something great, Ada. I know this. And it's an honor to help see you through it."
I wont do a full review on this one as there are many out there infinitely better than mine could be. But I will say a few things to give you a heads up in a way.
This is a creepy book but it's not horror. That said don't read it at night and alone. It still gave me goosebumps even if Karina herself has said it's mostly PNR. If you have not read her Experiment in Terror series I suggest dropping everything and reading it. This is a standalone and not depended on the series but it is a spin-off/continuation from it as it picks up two years after the last EiT book.
In my opinion, having read them all, if you plan on reading EIT or you're in the middle of it, finish it before you pick up this one. It contains spoilers from the last book. Not just the act that occurred but also a description of it.
Also this does NOT feel like an EIT book. If you have read the series and are a huge fan, don't expect the same vibe. This is completely and entirely Adas book. Of course Dex and Perry make an appearance but the plot, the adventure is wholly Adas. It's still the same world with the same elements but with some new twists. As usual I was gripped in it and fully engaged and invested.
Another excellent read from Karina Halle. I do hope she feels inspired to re-visit this world.
"When you wake up from a nightmare, the reality comforts you. When you wake up from the best dream ever, reality is a burden, a slap-in-the-face reminder that you could feel this, you could have this, but you don’t and you won’t."
“You are not Perry,” Jay says quickly, his gaze hard, piercing right into me. “You are not Pippa. You are Ada Palomino and your story is completely different. You are completely different. You have a fight ahead of you, one that goes far beyond what you’ve seen in your dreams.”
“And I am bound,” he says. “To watch and protect. To make you open your eyes. To teach you to fight back.”
"You're destined for something great, Ada. I know this. And it's an honor to help see you through it."
January 1, 2023
2.5 Jayda STARS
Tengo tanto que decir sobre este libro, sobre los protagonistas, sobre mi reencuentro con Perry y Dex, sobre Karina Halle.
La historia se merece ***3 ESTRELLAS***.
Todo inicia con Ada una joven de 18 años que disfruta de administrar su blog, diseñar ropa y esta por entrar a la universida. Pero que sufre de constantes pesadillas donde ve a su madre sufriendo en el infierno. Ada trata de vivir en la negación tratando de darle una perspectiva razonable y lógica a su vida. Pero teniendo en cuenta que su hermana puede ver fantasmas y su mamá fue poseída por un demonio, las cosas no pintan bien para ella.
Pronto aparece Jay en su vida, un guapo pelirrojo que dice ser su guardián/protector/maestro contra las artes obscurasalgo asi.
Aparte de las pesadillas, Ada sufre del constante acoso de fantasmas y demonios. Además su closet es una puerta hacia el infierno, lo cual la lleva a huir de su casa en compañía de Jay.
Jay y Ada tiene mucha tensión sexual a lo largo de la historia y esta culmina con ellos teniendo mucho sexo salvaje, y cuando digo salvaje es realmente SALVAJE, ya que Jay no es humano.
Mi parte favorita El alter ego de Jay, me intriga mucho saber todas las atrocidades que realizo. La escena donde apareció Silas Black fue la única que realmente me asusto y me dio escalofríos.
Mi experiencia con este libro se merece *1 ESTRELLA*
Karina Halle nos esta vendiendo este libro como un standalone, y si técnicamente lo es, se puede leer sin ningún inconveniente.
Pero hay que tener bien claro que este libro es un spinoff de la Serie Experiment In Terror. De la cual yo soy MEGA HARDCORE FANGIRL.
Eso sonó exagerado y es completamente cierto. Así como muchos aquí aman Cazadores de Sombras o Harry Potter, de ese modo yo amo la serie completa de Experiment in Terror . Es la única serie de terror que he leído, es la única serie larga que he terminado, tiene los protagonistas mas entrañables y que mas adoro en todo el mundo mundial.
Y esa es una de las principales razones por las que no pude disfrutar este libro. Mi amor por Perry y Dex es inmenso, que al leer este libro solo quería reencontrarme con ellos y Ada no me importaba nada.
Desde el inicio la autora nos remarca que no es necesario haber leído la serie de EIT, y advierte que contiene spoilers de esta. PEROOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO no advierte, ni menciona que este libro también cuenta con personajes de su Duología The Devil's Metal.
Por qué no lo hizo? Si nos adviertes de una serie por qué no también de la otra?
Y no son pequeños cameos, Dawn y Sage tienen mucha importancia en el desarrollo de la historia de Ada.
Lo peor es que yo aun no leo esos libro y ahora ya se exactamente que sucede en su historia, asi que yo si se los advierto ESTE LIBRO TIENE GRANDES SPOILERS DE LA DUOLOGIA THE DEVIL'S METAL.
En conclusión: Karina Halle una gran y sincera disculpa desde el fondo de mi corazón porque yo era una de esas odiosas fans que tanto te pedía que escribieras este libro. Ahora veo lo injusta que fui por querer forzar tu proceso creativo. Y una disculpa aun mas grande por no haber sido capaz de disfrutar este libro, lo intente, me forcé pero simplemente no funciono para mi. Igual seguiré leyendo todo lo que escribas, no importa el genero.
“We know monsters are real. They exist in this world. They can be disguised in a crowd. They can be buried in your head. And they are definitely somewhere . . . there.”
Tengo tanto que decir sobre este libro, sobre los protagonistas, sobre mi reencuentro con Perry y Dex, sobre Karina Halle.
La historia se merece ***3 ESTRELLAS***.
Todo inicia con Ada una joven de 18 años que disfruta de administrar su blog, diseñar ropa y esta por entrar a la universida. Pero que sufre de constantes pesadillas donde ve a su madre sufriendo en el infierno. Ada trata de vivir en la negación tratando de darle una perspectiva razonable y lógica a su vida. Pero teniendo en cuenta que su hermana puede ver fantasmas y su mamá fue poseída por un demonio, las cosas no pintan bien para ella.
Pronto aparece Jay en su vida, un guapo pelirrojo que dice ser su guardián/protector/maestro contra las artes obscuras
“You have youth, love. A young body, a young heart, and endless courage. That last part is the most important. Don’t let anyone tell you any differently."
Aparte de las pesadillas, Ada sufre del constante acoso de fantasmas y demonios. Además su closet es una puerta hacia el infierno, lo cual la lleva a huir de su casa en compañía de Jay.
Jay y Ada tiene mucha tensión sexual a lo largo de la historia y esta culmina con ellos teniendo mucho sexo salvaje, y cuando digo salvaje es realmente SALVAJE, ya que Jay no es humano.
Mi parte favorita El alter ego de Jay, me intriga mucho saber todas las atrocidades que realizo. La escena donde apareció Silas Black fue la única que realmente me asusto y me dio escalofríos.
"When I look at his eyes, I don’t see Jay anymore. I see someone else entirely. I into the abyss and the abyss stares right back. "
Mi experiencia con este libro se merece *1 ESTRELLA*
Karina Halle nos esta vendiendo este libro como un standalone, y si técnicamente lo es, se puede leer sin ningún inconveniente.
Pero hay que tener bien claro que este libro es un spinoff de la Serie Experiment In Terror. De la cual yo soy MEGA HARDCORE FANGIRL.
Eso sonó exagerado y es completamente cierto. Así como muchos aquí aman Cazadores de Sombras o Harry Potter, de ese modo yo amo la serie completa de Experiment in Terror . Es la única serie de terror que he leído, es la única serie larga que he terminado, tiene los protagonistas mas entrañables y que mas adoro en todo el mundo mundial.
Y esa es una de las principales razones por las que no pude disfrutar este libro. Mi amor por Perry y Dex es inmenso, que al leer este libro solo quería reencontrarme con ellos y Ada no me importaba nada.
Desde el inicio la autora nos remarca que no es necesario haber leído la serie de EIT, y advierte que contiene spoilers de esta. PEROOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO no advierte, ni menciona que este libro también cuenta con personajes de su Duología The Devil's Metal.
Por qué no lo hizo? Si nos adviertes de una serie por qué no también de la otra?
Y no son pequeños cameos, Dawn y Sage tienen mucha importancia en el desarrollo de la historia de Ada.
Lo peor es que yo aun no leo esos libro y ahora ya se exactamente que sucede en su historia, asi que yo si se los advierto ESTE LIBRO TIENE GRANDES SPOILERS DE LA DUOLOGIA THE DEVIL'S METAL.
En conclusión: Karina Halle una gran y sincera disculpa desde el fondo de mi corazón porque yo era una de esas odiosas fans que tanto te pedía que escribieras este libro. Ahora veo lo injusta que fui por querer forzar tu proceso creativo. Y una disculpa aun mas grande por no haber sido capaz de disfrutar este libro, lo intente, me forcé pero simplemente no funciono para mi. Igual seguiré leyendo todo lo que escribas, no importa el genero.
![Profile Image for [~Ami~]♥Sexy Dexy♥ .](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1388500902i%2F22427047._UY200_CR8%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
July 30, 2016
5 stars
Aw this book gave me a rollercoaster of emotions. The first 30% was awesome because a certain someone <3. I swear he could have been talking about the weather and I would have still been grinning like crazy. The middle was just so creepy and spooky. The last 30% was so intense, it had my adrenaline pumping.
Tbh the only problem I had with it was well as you know no one compares to Dexy. Jay was no exception. I'd like to think maybe if we did get a few more books, he may become book boyfriend material. Nevertheless I love Ada and her sense of humour and this book felt more like her story than their story if that makes sense.
Also it can be read as a standalone. But why would anyone want to miss out on the awesomeness that is EiT is a mystery to me. I really hope KH writes some more books on Jayda (preferably with Dexy cameos). I really feel like there is more to Jayda than just one book.
Aw this book gave me a rollercoaster of emotions. The first 30% was awesome because a certain someone <3. I swear he could have been talking about the weather and I would have still been grinning like crazy. The middle was just so creepy and spooky. The last 30% was so intense, it had my adrenaline pumping.
Tbh the only problem I had with it was well as you know no one compares to Dexy. Jay was no exception. I'd like to think maybe if we did get a few more books, he may become book boyfriend material. Nevertheless I love Ada and her sense of humour and this book felt more like her story than their story if that makes sense.
Also it can be read as a standalone. But why would anyone want to miss out on the awesomeness that is EiT is a mystery to me. I really hope KH writes some more books on Jayda (preferably with Dexy cameos). I really feel like there is more to Jayda than just one book.
August 2, 2016
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️3.5 STARS⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
For as long as I’ve been member on Goodreads I remember having Karina Halle’s Experiment in Terror books on my shelves.
That was 4 years ago or so and I was just discovering romance books so my first interest for horror and spooky stories wasn’t enough to make me read them already. I knew they must be good as many friends recommended me throughout the years. But I knew there was a slow burn love story, spanning over 10 books or so… talk about a daring challenge! I wasn’t sure if I wasn’t up for it just yet.
So when I was offered to read the spin-off new standalone of EiT, I jumped on the occasion. Finally it was my chance to have a taste of the highly recommended romance horror stories.
Ada Palomino is Perry’s little sister, the famous character from EiT, she’s all but eighteen but knows how dark and dangerous the world can be. After all she comes from a long line of gifted women, she has the ability to see ghosts and others hidden powers.
After her mother died two years ago, her whole world started to change and not for the best. Her sister moved out of the house and she’s left alone facing new and disturbing things happening in her house… Knock. Knock. Knock.
Fortunately for her, she’s going to get help from a Jacob, a redhead protector designated just for her. Hers is called Jay, and he is indeed a delicious ginger specimen. Ada is not to be blamed for lusting after such an attractive male, and all those mixed signals he’s sending her are confusing! Together they’re going to fight off demons and creatures from the darkness all the while trying to resolve Ada’s mother errant soul mystery.
Now let me tell you, from page one Karina Halle had me gripping the edge of my bed ( reading at night, what a grand idea) and questioning my sanity as to start such a creepy book at night time. Ada’s POV and matter-o-factness regarding the strange line of events happening to her had me throwing out a thousands questions at a time. I needed to know what monsters were after her and why.
Having not read the EiT books, I had no ideas what to expect in term of surprises or shock value so I was just bracing myself to be spooked and spooked hard I was. Or let just call it a gradually tension, an heavy unease…
I loved Ada’s character, quirky fashion blogger, she was the perfect mixed of girly badass. Jay revealed himself to be a caring and protective alpha and I loved the slow burning feelings developing between them but his position of know it all throughout the book really annoyed me.
Overall I enjoyed this story but to me, it wasn’t truly Ada’s story… Too much Dex and Perry interventions or references had me a little annoyed at times, as I felt that Ada’s story couldn’t stand on its own, or at least that’s what those “apparitions” made me think of. I don’t think it was necessary to refer to Perry and this and Perry that so much, but that’s just me. Now I must admit a few of their verbal exchanges made me want to read more about them, and I will start EiT properly in the near future.
Another thing tainted my enjoyment a little… It was the unanswered questions Ada had for Jay. His answers whenever she was questioning his decisions were often vague or rest solely upon the fact that things were what they were in the Thin Veil or Hell. I wished the author had developed those specific questions, as I was as curious as Ada ! Too much cryptic answers killed it a little for me, sorry!
Veiled is a standalone mixing ingeniously horror, suspense and romance. If you need a thrill, some fun and steam then you should really pick this one up. It reads flawlessly and was intensely addictive.
(Arc kindly offered in exchange for an honest review)
More reviews and book talk at :
You can find me here too ☞
For as long as I’ve been member on Goodreads I remember having Karina Halle’s Experiment in Terror books on my shelves.
That was 4 years ago or so and I was just discovering romance books so my first interest for horror and spooky stories wasn’t enough to make me read them already. I knew they must be good as many friends recommended me throughout the years. But I knew there was a slow burn love story, spanning over 10 books or so… talk about a daring challenge! I wasn’t sure if I wasn’t up for it just yet.
So when I was offered to read the spin-off new standalone of EiT, I jumped on the occasion. Finally it was my chance to have a taste of the highly recommended romance horror stories.
Ada Palomino is Perry’s little sister, the famous character from EiT, she’s all but eighteen but knows how dark and dangerous the world can be. After all she comes from a long line of gifted women, she has the ability to see ghosts and others hidden powers.
After her mother died two years ago, her whole world started to change and not for the best. Her sister moved out of the house and she’s left alone facing new and disturbing things happening in her house… Knock. Knock. Knock.
Fortunately for her, she’s going to get help from a Jacob, a redhead protector designated just for her. Hers is called Jay, and he is indeed a delicious ginger specimen. Ada is not to be blamed for lusting after such an attractive male, and all those mixed signals he’s sending her are confusing! Together they’re going to fight off demons and creatures from the darkness all the while trying to resolve Ada’s mother errant soul mystery.
“A ginger, just as I had remembered, though he’s probably the sexiest, most enthralling male specimen I’ve ever seen.”
Now let me tell you, from page one Karina Halle had me gripping the edge of my bed ( reading at night, what a grand idea) and questioning my sanity as to start such a creepy book at night time. Ada’s POV and matter-o-factness regarding the strange line of events happening to her had me throwing out a thousands questions at a time. I needed to know what monsters were after her and why.
Having not read the EiT books, I had no ideas what to expect in term of surprises or shock value so I was just bracing myself to be spooked and spooked hard I was. Or let just call it a gradually tension, an heavy unease…
I loved Ada’s character, quirky fashion blogger, she was the perfect mixed of girly badass. Jay revealed himself to be a caring and protective alpha and I loved the slow burning feelings developing between them but his position of know it all throughout the book really annoyed me.
“In what way do you want me?”
“Every way. To feel you. To taste you. Every inch of you.”
Overall I enjoyed this story but to me, it wasn’t truly Ada’s story… Too much Dex and Perry interventions or references had me a little annoyed at times, as I felt that Ada’s story couldn’t stand on its own, or at least that’s what those “apparitions” made me think of. I don’t think it was necessary to refer to Perry and this and Perry that so much, but that’s just me. Now I must admit a few of their verbal exchanges made me want to read more about them, and I will start EiT properly in the near future.
“The more human I get, the more dangerous I become. The more dangerous it is for us. And I can’t promise a happy ending.”
“I don’t need your promises”
Another thing tainted my enjoyment a little… It was the unanswered questions Ada had for Jay. His answers whenever she was questioning his decisions were often vague or rest solely upon the fact that things were what they were in the Thin Veil or Hell. I wished the author had developed those specific questions, as I was as curious as Ada ! Too much cryptic answers killed it a little for me, sorry!
Veiled is a standalone mixing ingeniously horror, suspense and romance. If you need a thrill, some fun and steam then you should really pick this one up. It reads flawlessly and was intensely addictive.
(Arc kindly offered in exchange for an honest review)
More reviews and book talk at :
You can find me here too ☞
July 30, 2016
5 Stars!
(ARC provided by author)
Ada Palomino is an 18 yr. old from Portland, Oregon. After losing her mother a few years ago, & her sister Perry marrying & moving to Seattle, it's now just Ada and her dad. Ada is a fashion blogger who loves clothes & make up. She is starting college in about a month, & is excited to study fashion design. She wants to live a normal life, but unfortunately she comes from a family that is anything but average. In her world monsters are real. They exist, & aren't just in your head. Ada is discovering more every day that she's powerful and special like her sister, & she has abilities she hasn't fully grasped yet.
Ada has started having dreams that often haunt her. They cause her real terror. She has hallucinations in her sleep, and has trouble figuring out what's in her head and what's real. She feels paralyzed by these dreams & begins to dread & fear falling asleep. That is until a gorgeous man begins invading her dreams. In her nightmares, this man protects her & makes her feel safe and cared for.
Ada eventually crosses paths with her dream man while awake. It turns out she has met him once before, & his name is Jay. Jay ends up being someone important to Ada, & their lives become entwined. As they start spending time together they become extremely attached to one another. Deep feelings develop & they share a unique beautiful connection. Soon, Ada can't imagine Jay not being a part of her life, but things get very complicated as Ava's dream world & real world begin to collide.
-He's so fucking beautiful.
-I want to touch him. I ache for it. I want to feel his body against mine.
-My entire body, from the top of my scalp, down to my toes, is buzzing with heat and electricity. It's like everything I felt for him before, everything I try to ignore, is coming out in full force, responding to his words, to his body so close to mine.
I loved this paranormal, supernatural book full of ghosts, demons & other dimensions. It deals with the afterlife & the underworld & the many layers of the mind. It has mystery & excitement. Ada is discovering how strong she really is, and at the same time fighting for her life & falling for a delicious guy she wants desperately.
I really loved this book. It was my first paranormal read by Karina. I haven't read the EIT series yet, but this book reads great as a stand alone. If you have read the EIT series already, you will love that you get plenty of Perry & Dex in this book too. I really hope Karina writes more books for Ada & Jay! I need more!!! :))
-Real feelings, slowly creeping into my heart, day by day. The thought is terrifying in the same way that demons are terrifying. They both might take possession of me. They both might ruin me.
-Jay is my story, my world.
(ARC provided by author)
Ada Palomino is an 18 yr. old from Portland, Oregon. After losing her mother a few years ago, & her sister Perry marrying & moving to Seattle, it's now just Ada and her dad. Ada is a fashion blogger who loves clothes & make up. She is starting college in about a month, & is excited to study fashion design. She wants to live a normal life, but unfortunately she comes from a family that is anything but average. In her world monsters are real. They exist, & aren't just in your head. Ada is discovering more every day that she's powerful and special like her sister, & she has abilities she hasn't fully grasped yet.
Ada has started having dreams that often haunt her. They cause her real terror. She has hallucinations in her sleep, and has trouble figuring out what's in her head and what's real. She feels paralyzed by these dreams & begins to dread & fear falling asleep. That is until a gorgeous man begins invading her dreams. In her nightmares, this man protects her & makes her feel safe and cared for.
Ada eventually crosses paths with her dream man while awake. It turns out she has met him once before, & his name is Jay. Jay ends up being someone important to Ada, & their lives become entwined. As they start spending time together they become extremely attached to one another. Deep feelings develop & they share a unique beautiful connection. Soon, Ada can't imagine Jay not being a part of her life, but things get very complicated as Ava's dream world & real world begin to collide.
-He's so fucking beautiful.
-I want to touch him. I ache for it. I want to feel his body against mine.
-My entire body, from the top of my scalp, down to my toes, is buzzing with heat and electricity. It's like everything I felt for him before, everything I try to ignore, is coming out in full force, responding to his words, to his body so close to mine.
I loved this paranormal, supernatural book full of ghosts, demons & other dimensions. It deals with the afterlife & the underworld & the many layers of the mind. It has mystery & excitement. Ada is discovering how strong she really is, and at the same time fighting for her life & falling for a delicious guy she wants desperately.
I really loved this book. It was my first paranormal read by Karina. I haven't read the EIT series yet, but this book reads great as a stand alone. If you have read the EIT series already, you will love that you get plenty of Perry & Dex in this book too. I really hope Karina writes more books for Ada & Jay! I need more!!! :))
-Real feelings, slowly creeping into my heart, day by day. The thought is terrifying in the same way that demons are terrifying. They both might take possession of me. They both might ruin me.
-Jay is my story, my world.
September 20, 2016
4 spooky ass stars!!!
The author said this wasn't suppose to be a horror book, well, I hate to see what she considers horror then. Maybe I am just a chicken sh*t, but this was seriously scary.
Not my usual type of read, but I really liked it. Spooky and a gory, with a little romance.
The author said this wasn't suppose to be a horror book, well, I hate to see what she considers horror then. Maybe I am just a chicken sh*t, but this was seriously scary.
Not my usual type of read, but I really liked it. Spooky and a gory, with a little romance.
November 11, 2019
I am not sure how to rate this book.
I liked the romance, which is why I kept listening, but story wise, I didn’t care much. To be fare, part of the fact that I didn’t enjoy the plot that much is, I think, because I listened to the book in audio, rather than actually reading it. I am a fan of audiobooks in general because they allow me to do something else while listening to a book, and that way I can be more productive with my time. However, exactly because of that reason, listening to an audiobook with a horror genre for me is not as intense as it is when I actually read it. That is why here, I couldn’t appreciate the story as much. My attention was divided and I missed being scared, I missed all the tension. Now I wish I had read it instead so that all my concentration was put on the story. I know I would have enjoyed the whole book much more that way.
Audiobook: I need to say that is obvios that the narrator know what she is doing very well. She does great with emotions, characters and such. I do not question that she is a great narrator. Nevertheless, for me personally, I didn’t like her way of imbuing her voice for this particular 18 year old main character. I don’t think is the right voice and tone for her. It sounded older and dragging. It depressed me at times as well as it gave me an “I don’t care” vibe coming from the character. I had no problem with her voices for other characters.
As a conclusion, if you are planning on picking up this book, I wouldn’t recommend listening to the audiobook, but not because of the narrator’s fault, but because of the dramatics and tension that can be lost with this genre while listening.
I liked the romance, which is why I kept listening, but story wise, I didn’t care much. To be fare, part of the fact that I didn’t enjoy the plot that much is, I think, because I listened to the book in audio, rather than actually reading it. I am a fan of audiobooks in general because they allow me to do something else while listening to a book, and that way I can be more productive with my time. However, exactly because of that reason, listening to an audiobook with a horror genre for me is not as intense as it is when I actually read it. That is why here, I couldn’t appreciate the story as much. My attention was divided and I missed being scared, I missed all the tension. Now I wish I had read it instead so that all my concentration was put on the story. I know I would have enjoyed the whole book much more that way.
Audiobook: I need to say that is obvios that the narrator know what she is doing very well. She does great with emotions, characters and such. I do not question that she is a great narrator. Nevertheless, for me personally, I didn’t like her way of imbuing her voice for this particular 18 year old main character. I don’t think is the right voice and tone for her. It sounded older and dragging. It depressed me at times as well as it gave me an “I don’t care” vibe coming from the character. I had no problem with her voices for other characters.
As a conclusion, if you are planning on picking up this book, I wouldn’t recommend listening to the audiobook, but not because of the narrator’s fault, but because of the dramatics and tension that can be lost with this genre while listening.
October 16, 2016
Karina Halle's Veiled is marketed as a standalone, paranormal novel for readers who have not read her Experiments In Terror series. However, being a reader who hasn't read her EIT series or her Devils series , I think I would have enjoyed this book more if I had made the introductions beforehand. Veiled felt much more like a companion novel, not a standalone. Although Ms. Halle did a superb job of including much needed backstories to both series, these characters' histories and past experiences are blatantly missing and the ones that were included felt like spoilers. What it comes down to is I felt left out. Maybe this was intentional so I would have plenty of motivation to fill in the missing pieces by starting one or both of the series, which kinda-sorta worked. I want to play catch-up now for sure but on the other hand, I know too much about the evolution of Dex and Perry's and Sage and Dawn's relationships and how they ended as well as some minor plot/conclusion spoilers. I know the books aren't only about their personal relationships and with over ten installments available, there is plenty of unspoiled material, but still. Something to consider I guess.
Regardless of the above, I liked Veiled overall. It introduced me to a dark, paranormal world with intriguing characters. It has mystery, suspense, horror, and new-adult romance. The romance was definitely hot, but it was a bit abrupt in my opinion. The hero serves as a guide/guardian to the heroine from the start. The relationship dynamic felt brotherly, almost fatherly, even though the heroine's personal interest in him grew throughout. The mutual interest seemed sudden and abruptly intense in my opinion. But the main storyline is filled with strange experiences, a mother in limbo, demons, and a trip to hell and back which was engaging and made the read worth it. Personally, I would recommend Veiled to readers who are already familiar with both the EIT and Devils series. If you read the book synopsis, Ms. Halle stresses the opposite. So if you have read it or haven't read it, I guess you're safe. Enjoy!
My favorite quote:
"...the past doesn’t define us. It’s what we do here and now, today, that does. This world was built on second chances."
9/15/16:
9/16/16 is read an e-book day!!!
This is the one I'll be reading ❤️
Regardless of the above, I liked Veiled overall. It introduced me to a dark, paranormal world with intriguing characters. It has mystery, suspense, horror, and new-adult romance. The romance was definitely hot, but it was a bit abrupt in my opinion. The hero serves as a guide/guardian to the heroine from the start. The relationship dynamic felt brotherly, almost fatherly, even though the heroine's personal interest in him grew throughout. The mutual interest seemed sudden and abruptly intense in my opinion. But the main storyline is filled with strange experiences, a mother in limbo, demons, and a trip to hell and back which was engaging and made the read worth it. Personally, I would recommend Veiled to readers who are already familiar with both the EIT and Devils series. If you read the book synopsis, Ms. Halle stresses the opposite. So if you have read it or haven't read it, I guess you're safe. Enjoy!
My favorite quote:
"...the past doesn’t define us. It’s what we do here and now, today, that does. This world was built on second chances."
9/15/16:
9/16/16 is read an e-book day!!!
This is the one I'll be reading ❤️
January 8, 2020
Little Fifteen, aka Ada, is gonna get her own freaking SERIES!
YAAAAY!!! Atta GIRL!!! I expect epicness...
YAAAAY!!! Atta GIRL!!! I expect epicness...
February 4, 2017
Karina Halle is back with what she started with (and what she does the best in my opinion) – paranormal romance with horror elements.
Unfortunately, this spin-off to Experiment in Terror series doesn’t have the same x-factor that original series has. The fact that appearances of main EIT duo (Perry & Dex) were highlights of the book made me realize that even though I love spending time in EIT world, Ada’s story didn’t stand on its own for me. This book failed at making me fall in love with Ada as a narrator and I didn’t live her romance with Jay either. Still storyline was interesting enough and I would read a continuation if there ever is one.
Veiled is a book that won’t offend and if you enjoy paranormal romances it will definitely entertain you.
PRE-REVIEW:
YAAAY! I am so so happy that Little Fifteen is getting her own series :)
Unfortunately, this spin-off to Experiment in Terror series doesn’t have the same x-factor that original series has. The fact that appearances of main EIT duo (Perry & Dex) were highlights of the book made me realize that even though I love spending time in EIT world, Ada’s story didn’t stand on its own for me. This book failed at making me fall in love with Ada as a narrator and I didn’t live her romance with Jay either. Still storyline was interesting enough and I would read a continuation if there ever is one.
Veiled is a book that won’t offend and if you enjoy paranormal romances it will definitely entertain you.
PRE-REVIEW:
YAAAY! I am so so happy that Little Fifteen is getting her own series :)
August 11, 2016
I loved this book.
I devoured this book.
Karina had me captured from page one. Veiled was gritty, sexy, and thrilling. Jay and Ada's story was full of so many emotions. I was laughing and then biting my nails the next minute.
Just fantastic.
I devoured this book.
Karina had me captured from page one. Veiled was gritty, sexy, and thrilling. Jay and Ada's story was full of so many emotions. I was laughing and then biting my nails the next minute.
Just fantastic.
Want to read
June 6, 2013I cannot wait for this book! Ada is a badass
August 14, 2016
4 scary, sexy, supernatural stars
As a die-hard fan of the Experiment in Terror series, I have been so excited to get my hands on this book! Ada was a wonderful side character as the younger sister of EIT heroine, Perry, a 15 year old with wit, sass and courageousness, and I knew she would shine as the heroine of her own story, and she totally did!
A quick note - this book is not a direct follow on from EIT. It’s set in the same world of course, taking place about two years after the end of the final book in the series, and there’s a lot of reference made to events from the EIT books but technically this book can be read as a standalone. I think readers would appreciate this one more if they had read EIT first, but there’s a lot of explanation given to the supernatural world and everything that’s happening, and it’s certainly an enjoyable read on its own (but if you are planning on reading EIT at some point in the future, just be aware that there are huge spoilers in this book for that series). And though Dex and Perry do appear in this story, the focus has very much shifted away from them and the feel of this book is very different, and I was really impressed with the way that Karina was able to create a unique story that is wholly Ada’s.
“Little Fifteen” has grown up and is now an 18 year old who is enjoying her summer break before she begins studying fashion design at College. But like her sister and her grandmother before her, she knows that she is not normal. She knows about the supernatural world – about ghosts, demons and other terrifying things, and she knows how dangerously real they are. But when her gruesome and violent dreams start to blur with reality and her mother’s torment becomes all too real, she knows she’s in trouble.
And then there’s the man. The man in her dreams who it seems is actually very real. A man named Jay who has just moved in next door and who is tied to Ada in ways she never imagined, and who is about to guide her through experiences that are the stuff of nightmares.
I can’t really go into detail without giving too much away, but OMG, this is a heart-pounding read! Karina’s writing is vividly descriptive as she drags us into Ada’s personal hell as she comes to realise the reality that is now her life. Demons, creepy-crawlies, ghosts and shadows, it’s all terrifyingly freaky, and the added suspense just adds to the intensity.
And then there’s Jay. Just, damn. The man is fiercely protective of his charge, and his good looks and broody intensity add to his appeal. Ada is smitten, and it soon becomes clear that the attraction goes both ways, and the sexual tension simmers along beautifully. But a relationship between them is strictly forbidden… and we all know what that means!
Yep, there’s some pretty sensational steamy time! And all of that intensity blends with Ada’s mission to saved her loved one and literally face down the demons that are tormenting her. It’s a wildly exciting ride that is gruesome, horrifying and disturbingly creepy, but it’s also freakishly addicting – just read this book with the lights on!
I love Ada. She’s only 18 but with all that she’s been through she’s wise beyond her years. She is strong and determined, though understandably struggles with the grief, confusion and fear over everything that she’s going through, but her sass and wicked sense of humour win through time and time again, and she’s just sensational.
And enigmatic Jay is a wonderfully complex character. He’s got an intriguing backstory and has his own struggles to go through, but he was wonderful with Ada - the perfect combination of sweet and tender, and downright dirty, and I absolutely loved him!
And together they make a fantastic team. Not just because of the sizzling chemistry, and slow burning, banter-filled relationship that is developing between them, but everything that they have to face together. It creates a great dynamic, and though this book ends at a good place, the stage is set for more adventures to come, and I hope we get to see more of Ada and Jay in the future.
I loved it – 4 stars.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Quotes used in this review were taken from the ARC version of the book and may differ from final version.
As a die-hard fan of the Experiment in Terror series, I have been so excited to get my hands on this book! Ada was a wonderful side character as the younger sister of EIT heroine, Perry, a 15 year old with wit, sass and courageousness, and I knew she would shine as the heroine of her own story, and she totally did!
A quick note - this book is not a direct follow on from EIT. It’s set in the same world of course, taking place about two years after the end of the final book in the series, and there’s a lot of reference made to events from the EIT books but technically this book can be read as a standalone. I think readers would appreciate this one more if they had read EIT first, but there’s a lot of explanation given to the supernatural world and everything that’s happening, and it’s certainly an enjoyable read on its own (but if you are planning on reading EIT at some point in the future, just be aware that there are huge spoilers in this book for that series). And though Dex and Perry do appear in this story, the focus has very much shifted away from them and the feel of this book is very different, and I was really impressed with the way that Karina was able to create a unique story that is wholly Ada’s.
“Little Fifteen” has grown up and is now an 18 year old who is enjoying her summer break before she begins studying fashion design at College. But like her sister and her grandmother before her, she knows that she is not normal. She knows about the supernatural world – about ghosts, demons and other terrifying things, and she knows how dangerously real they are. But when her gruesome and violent dreams start to blur with reality and her mother’s torment becomes all too real, she knows she’s in trouble.
After all I’ve been through, I know nothing is impossible. And even though on the surface I have a pretty average life for an eighteen-year-old, beneath the surface I’m anything but average.
Luckily, very few people scratch beneath the surface. If they did, they’d either run screaming or have me committed.
Sometimes I think the latter might be preferable.
And then there’s the man. The man in her dreams who it seems is actually very real. A man named Jay who has just moved in next door and who is tied to Ada in ways she never imagined, and who is about to guide her through experiences that are the stuff of nightmares.
“I don’t even really know who you are.”
“I’m the one who has your back,” he says. “And I’ve been watching you for a very, very long time.”
I can’t really go into detail without giving too much away, but OMG, this is a heart-pounding read! Karina’s writing is vividly descriptive as she drags us into Ada’s personal hell as she comes to realise the reality that is now her life. Demons, creepy-crawlies, ghosts and shadows, it’s all terrifyingly freaky, and the added suspense just adds to the intensity.
“You have a fight ahead of you, one that goes far beyond what you’ve seen in your dreams.”
Well fucking hell. “Please tell me some good news,” I whisper to him, my nails digging into my palm. “Your bedside manner sucks.”
“I’m your good news.”
And then there’s Jay. Just, damn. The man is fiercely protective of his charge, and his good looks and broody intensity add to his appeal. Ada is smitten, and it soon becomes clear that the attraction goes both ways, and the sexual tension simmers along beautifully. But a relationship between them is strictly forbidden… and we all know what that means!
“I may be immortal but I am still a man with blood pumping in my veins.” He moves an inch closer. My skin heats up. Every nerve is burning. “You are off-limits. You are forbidden to me. And all it does is make me want you more.”
Yep, there’s some pretty sensational steamy time! And all of that intensity blends with Ada’s mission to saved her loved one and literally face down the demons that are tormenting her. It’s a wildly exciting ride that is gruesome, horrifying and disturbingly creepy, but it’s also freakishly addicting – just read this book with the lights on!
The normal I’ve always wanted to be will now never be reached. It was always in my grasp…but it’s just smoke in my hand.
I love Ada. She’s only 18 but with all that she’s been through she’s wise beyond her years. She is strong and determined, though understandably struggles with the grief, confusion and fear over everything that she’s going through, but her sass and wicked sense of humour win through time and time again, and she’s just sensational.
“I should have known what I was getting into with you.”
“Oh please,” I tell him. “I am a motherfucking delight.”
And enigmatic Jay is a wonderfully complex character. He’s got an intriguing backstory and has his own struggles to go through, but he was wonderful with Ada - the perfect combination of sweet and tender, and downright dirty, and I absolutely loved him!
“You’re destined for something great, Ada, I know this. And it’s an honor to help see you through it.”
And together they make a fantastic team. Not just because of the sizzling chemistry, and slow burning, banter-filled relationship that is developing between them, but everything that they have to face together. It creates a great dynamic, and though this book ends at a good place, the stage is set for more adventures to come, and I hope we get to see more of Ada and Jay in the future.
“The past doesn’t define us. It’s what we do here and now, today, that does. This world was built on second chances.”
I loved it – 4 stars.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Quotes used in this review were taken from the ARC version of the book and may differ from final version.
August 7, 2016
Been waiting soooo freaking long for this ... and definitely worth the wait .
August 11, 2016
So I'm not really even sure if I can put into words how I feel about this book, but I'm going to at least try.
So I remember way back when I was first interested in the EIT series. I wanted to read it, I mean jeez, everyone kept going on and on about how good it was, but It wasn't really my reading genre and honestly, I was nervous about the whole horror part. So I kept putting it off and putting it off. I remember though, I did a buddy read, and ironically enough we started it around Halloween. And I thought, what have I got myself into, lol. But I was instantly hooked, and I want to say, read them all straight through or maybe as far as we could into the series. Yes, they had the horror but there was also Dex and Perry, and they made the horror part worth reading. I'm not going to lie, some of it scared the heebee Jeeves outta me, but not to the point where I couldn't sleep or anything. So I couldn't wait for Ada's story to come out. (I know I'm babbling.) I actually hadn't realized we all had been waiting on it as long as we had though. I had a baby, moved a couple times, yadda yadda. But was super pumped when my fellow buddy readers asked me to join in again to read this.
Y'all this book......
So I'm not going to lie, when it first started I was like "back the truck up, I don't remember this and that". But seriously just give it a few minutes and it's pretty much self explanatory. And all over again I thought "what the heck did I sign up for", lol. (One night it was massively storming while I was reading and dude I was totally checking all the corners for shadows every time the lightening struck outside, lol) this was so good. There are parts where I'm like reading through my fingers, but mostly, especially after 50% mark I was so hooked I couldn't put the book down. Even now, tomorrow is my little boys first day of school and I should be asleep so I can get up early but I'm still thinking about this book.
Dex and Perry make appearances which totally rocks, because let's be honest I still miss those 2 more than is probably healthy. And of course others from the EIT series. But Ada and Jay are who make this story. I love Ada. I remember her being more stuck up and uppity, but when I got in her head she totally wasn't. I can tell if this series keeps going she's going to be totally bad ass. And then Jay.....He's like an onion that just keeps peeling. Layer after layer, I've read this whole book and still feel like I don't know him at all, but NEED to know more. Him and Ada, I just know they have to be something special, and I just can't wait to find out what it is.....ahhhhhhh.
I totally know this review is a bunch of sentences just jumbled together. It's midnight, I'm supposed to be asleep, but really I can't wrap my head around all of it so I'm just typing my thoughts as they come to me. Plus, I haven't really wrote reviews in a while so I'm out of practice, lol. Read this book dammit!!! Karina Halle says if it goes over well she'll go ahead and write two more books to go with his one. And I guarantee if you read this one with this ending you're going to need those 2 more books like you need air to breathe. For real! This has to be a trilogy. It's amaze balls as is, but I need more from Ada and Jay!!!!!
August 9, 2016
Deliciously creepy and romantic, Karina Halle’s Veiled brims with darkness, passion and suspense. A spinoff from her Experiment with Terror series, this story explores Ada Palomino’s fate as her encounters with death suddenly become more intimate and compelling.
I loved this side of Halle. She easily hit her stride from the beginning, stirring up hair-raising chills. Toss in a little forbidden, menacing romance and a beckoning portal to Hell, and well, I was hooked.
Ada Palomino—Perry’s sister—is used a life shaped by unimaginable horrors. Demons. Ghosts. Death. But her dreams increasingly become more violent, more threatening and realistic, more heart wrenching in a way she can’t shake off. She also keeps dreaming of a man with danger etched into his irresistible features. Ada has met him before, she thinks, but now he’s a recurring element of her restless nights.
But then he’s there. Jay is there, in real life, as things start to swirl out of control.
Ada’s dead mother beckons her from the pits of Hell, asking for help. Jay tries to guide her, protect her, dissuade her from giving in to her mother’s pleas. Horrors from the other world begin to bleed into her own and everything becomes murky and difficult to process. Who can she trust? What should she do? Ada was being pushed into her own destiny, one that promised death, loss, heartbreak.
To make matters worse, the truth she uncovers compromises her intensifying feelings for Jay—and if the truth doesn’t break them apart, his role in it all will bring things to an end.
The novel is written as a standalone, but I hope that Halle continues Ada’s story. There’s so much more to explore both with characters and plot.
I loved the edginess, the touches of horror, the suspense and forbidden romance. It’s an exhilarating rabbit hole to fall into. And although Veiled is classified as a paranormal/ urban fantasy romance, I think readers of all kinds who love stories with dark intrigue and intensity will love this book.
*Note you do not have to read the Experiment in Terror series to read this book.
✦ ✦ ✦ ✦
Follow Vilma's Book Blog: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
I loved this side of Halle. She easily hit her stride from the beginning, stirring up hair-raising chills. Toss in a little forbidden, menacing romance and a beckoning portal to Hell, and well, I was hooked.
“I swallow hard and my heart begins to thud. It’s not my imagination. I’m not asleep.”
Ada Palomino—Perry’s sister—is used a life shaped by unimaginable horrors. Demons. Ghosts. Death. But her dreams increasingly become more violent, more threatening and realistic, more heart wrenching in a way she can’t shake off. She also keeps dreaming of a man with danger etched into his irresistible features. Ada has met him before, she thinks, but now he’s a recurring element of her restless nights.
But then he’s there. Jay is there, in real life, as things start to swirl out of control.
“He could be a ghost, I could be going insane. But there was no doubt he was in my room. A dream brought to life.”
Ada’s dead mother beckons her from the pits of Hell, asking for help. Jay tries to guide her, protect her, dissuade her from giving in to her mother’s pleas. Horrors from the other world begin to bleed into her own and everything becomes murky and difficult to process. Who can she trust? What should she do? Ada was being pushed into her own destiny, one that promised death, loss, heartbreak.
To make matters worse, the truth she uncovers compromises her intensifying feelings for Jay—and if the truth doesn’t break them apart, his role in it all will bring things to an end.
“Sometimes we’re dealt a hand we never see coming. Sometimes there are only two choices. To live. Or die. And sometimes there’s a third choice… To suffer in Hell for all eternity.”
The novel is written as a standalone, but I hope that Halle continues Ada’s story. There’s so much more to explore both with characters and plot.
I loved the edginess, the touches of horror, the suspense and forbidden romance. It’s an exhilarating rabbit hole to fall into. And although Veiled is classified as a paranormal/ urban fantasy romance, I think readers of all kinds who love stories with dark intrigue and intensity will love this book.
*Note you do not have to read the Experiment in Terror series to read this book.
✦ ✦ ✦ ✦
Follow Vilma's Book Blog: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
October 24, 2020
2.5. Rounded down to 2.
Because, here's the thing, if an author promises that you don't need to read previous books in order to understand this one then I'm going to believe them. However, that's not true in this case. 🤬. The first 50%, at least, was constantly referencing the previous books and I felt like I was missing huge aspects of the story because I didn't read those books or understand the nuances of the characters. And the last 50%.....well that was about rescuing the mother from Hell who apparently died in.....you guessed it....the previous series. There was a ton of backstory that I missed because I didn’t read the previous books and I kind of felt like I was in a fog for some of the story.
So it was frustrating to try to stay engaged with the story. It was huge disappointment and I felt like I was misled and it ticked me off. Do not believe the book blurb when it says this is a STANDALONE!!
Because, here's the thing, if an author promises that you don't need to read previous books in order to understand this one then I'm going to believe them. However, that's not true in this case. 🤬. The first 50%, at least, was constantly referencing the previous books and I felt like I was missing huge aspects of the story because I didn't read those books or understand the nuances of the characters. And the last 50%.....well that was about rescuing the mother from Hell who apparently died in.....you guessed it....the previous series. There was a ton of backstory that I missed because I didn’t read the previous books and I kind of felt like I was in a fog for some of the story.
So it was frustrating to try to stay engaged with the story. It was huge disappointment and I felt like I was misled and it ticked me off. Do not believe the book blurb when it says this is a STANDALONE!!
August 3, 2016
My, how I've missed Karina Halle's paranormals! Veiled has an EIT vibe with all of the creepiness and horror, but I loved the new direction. This isn't EIT 2.0, it's better! Ada and Jay are like Buffy and Giles, but much hotter and sexier.
I will say that there were times where I thought I was going to have to sleep with the light on because it was scaring the pants off of me. I couldn't stop reading, though, because I loved it!
(full review to come!)
I will say that there were times where I thought I was going to have to sleep with the light on because it was scaring the pants off of me. I couldn't stop reading, though, because I loved it!
(full review to come!)
October 4, 2016
This book has convinced me that I need to create a new bookshelf: horror-romance. I haven't watched a true horror film since I watched The Exorcist by myself in the basement when I was a teen. Thankfully, I find reading horror slightly less scary. I think it is because there is no creepy music or shrill screaming upping the ante. The gore is still described but somehow seems less....oozy in print than picture. Veiled, by Karina Halle, is a demon-seeking-human type of terror that is tremendously high on the fright factor, but it also contains probably one of the hottest love scenes I've read all year. All I had to hear was, "You gorgeous girl," at just that moment in Jay's Irish brogue and I was sunk for this book.
Ada Palomino is the lead character. She is the younger sister of Perry Palomino, a main character in a slew of other Halle novels in the Experiment in Terror series. I haven't read those books, but there is a link and Ada's story is a spoiler for how that nine-book series ends. I was fine with how this was handled, but be forewarned. Ada is 18, coasting through the summer before college, publicly blogging about fashion, but privately barely hanging onto her mental health in the aftermath of the Experiment in Terror events. Things start going bump in the night, and Ada's hold on her psyche becomes even more tenuous. She is this interesting character transitioning from teen to adult because circumstances of life have forced her to, regardless of whether she is really ready or not. Luckily, the slang (twatwaffle?) and other new adult paraphernalia fall by the wayside as the horror envelops the plot. Ada is no child.
This novel managed to push all the right buttons for the kinds of things I find scariest. Demons are probably the most terrifying because they have such presence in Judeo-Christian religion and are directly sourced from the Bible. Halle immerses you in the horror version of this, complete with the Demon Legion attacking in multiple, disgusting ways. They want Ada, and are devious and determined to get her.
Her guide is a stranger in person but familiar in her dreams. Hunky Jay is a big brute of a red-head, with beautiful blue eyes. He is enigmatic and unconventional, especially for the hero figure of a paranormal book. He is there when she needs him....sometimes. The confusion about Jay is part of what keeps the suspense of this novel churning.
Probably my one complaint about this book is that we only heard the story from Ada's first-person perspective. I think Halle could have successfully incorporated Jay's perspective without diluting the suspense. I could see why Ada wants to "undo him as he undoes me." In turn, she is forbidden fruit to him.
"You're eighteen, Ada. Pretty sure you're allowed to have a man around you. Back in the day, you would have been my bride at sixteen." With that statement, I was thinking, "Who is this guy?" Well, read and find out.
I have to say I found myself impatient as I swiped the pages of this book, and I think that is the hallmark of a well-written suspense novel. 4.5 stars. [Plus, love the cover!]
Ada Palomino is the lead character. She is the younger sister of Perry Palomino, a main character in a slew of other Halle novels in the Experiment in Terror series. I haven't read those books, but there is a link and Ada's story is a spoiler for how that nine-book series ends. I was fine with how this was handled, but be forewarned. Ada is 18, coasting through the summer before college, publicly blogging about fashion, but privately barely hanging onto her mental health in the aftermath of the Experiment in Terror events. Things start going bump in the night, and Ada's hold on her psyche becomes even more tenuous. She is this interesting character transitioning from teen to adult because circumstances of life have forced her to, regardless of whether she is really ready or not. Luckily, the slang (twatwaffle?) and other new adult paraphernalia fall by the wayside as the horror envelops the plot. Ada is no child.
This novel managed to push all the right buttons for the kinds of things I find scariest. Demons are probably the most terrifying because they have such presence in Judeo-Christian religion and are directly sourced from the Bible. Halle immerses you in the horror version of this, complete with the Demon Legion attacking in multiple, disgusting ways. They want Ada, and are devious and determined to get her.
Her guide is a stranger in person but familiar in her dreams. Hunky Jay is a big brute of a red-head, with beautiful blue eyes. He is enigmatic and unconventional, especially for the hero figure of a paranormal book. He is there when she needs him....sometimes. The confusion about Jay is part of what keeps the suspense of this novel churning.
Probably my one complaint about this book is that we only heard the story from Ada's first-person perspective. I think Halle could have successfully incorporated Jay's perspective without diluting the suspense. I could see why Ada wants to "undo him as he undoes me." In turn, she is forbidden fruit to him.
"You're eighteen, Ada. Pretty sure you're allowed to have a man around you. Back in the day, you would have been my bride at sixteen." With that statement, I was thinking, "Who is this guy?" Well, read and find out.
I have to say I found myself impatient as I swiped the pages of this book, and I think that is the hallmark of a well-written suspense novel. 4.5 stars. [Plus, love the cover!]
August 1, 2016
So worth the wait but I need MORE!!!! Ada deserves to have more than just one book, her story is far from over!
August 25, 2016
Super creepy. I did get chills but then again I do get scared easily with anything supernatural.
*Purchased*
*Purchased*
January 26, 2021
4-4.5 ⭐'s
“We make our own light.”
This is Ada's story and I really hadn't planned to read it (big mistake). I just wasn't a fan of hers and since I read Ghosted right before this, I didn't really care for Jay either.
Well, this book blew that all out of the water because these two have become favorites and it only helps that the story is a little bit angsty which I love!
Ada's powers are starting to come out and she's freaking out especially because she starts dreaming about this man. Then, said man moves in next door...is he real or not?
Fortunate for Ada, he's here to help her navigate what's going on in her life. Jay's a rookie so there's still a bit of human in him and it comes out in some interesting ways.
Demons are after Ada and the story does get a bit freaky. The demons know right where to strike and it's so sad.
But it does make Ada and Jay closer and then they get even closer which is against the rules.
I was happy that Jay helped her do something before they were held accountable. It does end on a bit of a sad note. I'm definitely dying to read the next book, Song for the Dead, which is coming out February 25, 2021.
“We make our own light.”
This is Ada's story and I really hadn't planned to read it (big mistake). I just wasn't a fan of hers and since I read Ghosted right before this, I didn't really care for Jay either.
Well, this book blew that all out of the water because these two have become favorites and it only helps that the story is a little bit angsty which I love!
Ada's powers are starting to come out and she's freaking out especially because she starts dreaming about this man. Then, said man moves in next door...is he real or not?
Fortunate for Ada, he's here to help her navigate what's going on in her life. Jay's a rookie so there's still a bit of human in him and it comes out in some interesting ways.
Demons are after Ada and the story does get a bit freaky. The demons know right where to strike and it's so sad.
But it does make Ada and Jay closer and then they get even closer which is against the rules.
I was happy that Jay helped her do something before they were held accountable. It does end on a bit of a sad note. I'm definitely dying to read the next book, Song for the Dead, which is coming out February 25, 2021.
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