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Crescent City Creatures #1
Punished
Mary just wants to get away from her boss, but quitting her job would leave her and her sister homeless. Raphael is a criminal living with the never-ending guilt of the crimes he committed centuries ago. Punished brings them together in a romance filled with lore, laugher, and love. Samantha Stone is pleased to present Book 1 of her new paranormal romance series, Crescent City Creatures.
Raphael Saar is an exiled werewolf, a convict on the direct path to a death sentence—for a crime he didn’t commit. He doesn’t care, so long as he can end the human trafficking ring kidnapping women across New Orleans.
Recovering from a horrific tragedy, one particularly bad day for Mary Newman has stretched into months. A nanny for a wealthy family in New Orleans, she can’t understand why she’s being constantly humiliated by her boss until the night she learns that he’s not human—and neither is she.
Only Raphael can save her from the monster feeding from her misery, but will Mary be able to stop his execution?
Punished teams up werewolves, banshees, a wompus cat and a haint in order to rid New Orleans of a group of immortals determined to hurt the city’s women and kill Raphael’s pack.
Content Notes: Spicy, Urban Fantasy, Paranormal, Suspense, Shifters, Wolves, Other Weres, Magic, Ghosts
Raphael Saar is an exiled werewolf, a convict on the direct path to a death sentence—for a crime he didn’t commit. He doesn’t care, so long as he can end the human trafficking ring kidnapping women across New Orleans.
Recovering from a horrific tragedy, one particularly bad day for Mary Newman has stretched into months. A nanny for a wealthy family in New Orleans, she can’t understand why she’s being constantly humiliated by her boss until the night she learns that he’s not human—and neither is she.
Only Raphael can save her from the monster feeding from her misery, but will Mary be able to stop his execution?
Punished teams up werewolves, banshees, a wompus cat and a haint in order to rid New Orleans of a group of immortals determined to hurt the city’s women and kill Raphael’s pack.
Content Notes: Spicy, Urban Fantasy, Paranormal, Suspense, Shifters, Wolves, Other Weres, Magic, Ghosts
212 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 23, 2015
49 people are currently reading
419 people want to read
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October 24, 2015
Keep in mind, I'm the author! LOL
Check out Punished, coming out November 23, 2015!
Check out Punished, coming out November 23, 2015!
November 23, 2015
(from my blog)
Happy Monday! This is a special edition of Literary Friday on a Monday because today is the release date of my daughter's book! And being the Mama Bear that I am, well, I just couldn't wait until Friday to post about it.
Punished is the first in an urban fantasy series set in New Orleans. Shanley Belle has enjoyed spending time with her family in one of our best Southern cities her entire life as Mr. Art @ Home is from New Orleans.
Raphael Saar is an exiled werewolf, a convict on the direct path to a death sentence—for a crime he didn’t commit. He doesn’t care, so long as he can end the human trafficking ring kidnapping women across New Orleans.
Recovering from a horrific tragedy, one particularly bad day for Mary Newman has stretched into months. A nanny for a wealthy family in New Orleans, she can’t understand why she’s being constantly humiliated by her boss until the night she learns that he’s not human—and neither is she.
Only Raphael can save her from the monster feeding from her misery, but will Mary be able to stop his execution?
Punished teams up werewolves, banshees, a wompus cat and a haint in order to rid New Orleans of a group of immortals determined to hurt the city’s women and kill Raphael’s pack.
One thing I love most about the book are the creatures featured in it. They are from Southern lore, and I can remember tales my grandmother Big Mama told me about the wampus cat! The series has many colorful characters, and you'd better pay attention in the first installment because the action is non-stop.
Although this story focuses on Mary and Raphael's love story, they are not my favorite characters in the book (especially Mary). Not that I don't LIKE Mary, it's just that I'm more intrigued with a few of the secondary characters, like Wish and Leila, Mary's sister. I can't wait to read their individual books (they are not a couple).
I think Stone nailed the New Orleans setting. The reader can tell that she's spent quite a bit of time there, and I dare any native to say otherwise! There is truly a sense of place in the book, and the unique atmosphere and culture of New Orleans is almost a secondary character. I think anyone who loves New Orleans will love this series.
Here is an EXCLUSIVE excerpt, only found here @ Art @ Home!
“They only know two things,” Wish said, “mating and killing.”
At Mary’s alarmed gasp, Aiyanna quickly chimed in, shooting Wish an annoyed look. “These men contain themselves with chains enchanted to subdue werewolves with full powers.”
Powers these men didn’t have. So long as Leila and she stayed away from where they were chained, they would be safe.
The thought of crazed wolves still made Mary’s knees weaken. If it weren’t for Aiyanna and Wish’s earnest reassurances about the men, coupled with their lacking abilities most werewolves had, Mary might have run from the firehouse, dragging Leila along with her.
Something wonderful—fragile, but worth cultivating—was forming between her and Raphael, but giant, relentlessly angry wolves were up there with large cats in her book.
She learned the loss of their powers was another punishment for their crimes. No one could tell Mary what the weres, namely Raphael, had done to deserve this.
“They’re all good men,” Aiyanna had assured her. “Whatever they’ve done, they’ve been punished enough for it. I promise you, there is no safer place than here.”
Then why don’t you live here? Leila had signed, earning a growl from the shapeshifter.
“Cael won’t let me,”Aiyanna said.
In keeping with the urban fantasy genre, there is a lot of violence in this book, so it probably isn't for the squeamish. The second installment is scheduled for a February release, and Samantha is already hard at work on her third book.
Punished is an ebook, and you can find it on Amazon and Barnes and Noble. Please visit Samantha's blog HERE.
FYI: Shanley "borrowed" here pen name from her great-grandfather, renowned New Orleans architect Sam Stone.
Please let me know if you read Punished. I'd like to know your thoughts!
Mary, one of the main characters, loves drinking hot chocolate. New Orleans has many local coffee shops, but Mary doesn't appreciate the chicory-rich coffee the city is known for....instead she prefers a rather thick hot chocolate that I will feature on tomorrow's post. Please come back tomorrow so you can make Mary's favorite hot chocolate!
Happy Monday! This is a special edition of Literary Friday on a Monday because today is the release date of my daughter's book! And being the Mama Bear that I am, well, I just couldn't wait until Friday to post about it.
Punished is the first in an urban fantasy series set in New Orleans. Shanley Belle has enjoyed spending time with her family in one of our best Southern cities her entire life as Mr. Art @ Home is from New Orleans.
Raphael Saar is an exiled werewolf, a convict on the direct path to a death sentence—for a crime he didn’t commit. He doesn’t care, so long as he can end the human trafficking ring kidnapping women across New Orleans.
Recovering from a horrific tragedy, one particularly bad day for Mary Newman has stretched into months. A nanny for a wealthy family in New Orleans, she can’t understand why she’s being constantly humiliated by her boss until the night she learns that he’s not human—and neither is she.
Only Raphael can save her from the monster feeding from her misery, but will Mary be able to stop his execution?
Punished teams up werewolves, banshees, a wompus cat and a haint in order to rid New Orleans of a group of immortals determined to hurt the city’s women and kill Raphael’s pack.
One thing I love most about the book are the creatures featured in it. They are from Southern lore, and I can remember tales my grandmother Big Mama told me about the wampus cat! The series has many colorful characters, and you'd better pay attention in the first installment because the action is non-stop.
Although this story focuses on Mary and Raphael's love story, they are not my favorite characters in the book (especially Mary). Not that I don't LIKE Mary, it's just that I'm more intrigued with a few of the secondary characters, like Wish and Leila, Mary's sister. I can't wait to read their individual books (they are not a couple).
I think Stone nailed the New Orleans setting. The reader can tell that she's spent quite a bit of time there, and I dare any native to say otherwise! There is truly a sense of place in the book, and the unique atmosphere and culture of New Orleans is almost a secondary character. I think anyone who loves New Orleans will love this series.
Here is an EXCLUSIVE excerpt, only found here @ Art @ Home!
“They only know two things,” Wish said, “mating and killing.”
At Mary’s alarmed gasp, Aiyanna quickly chimed in, shooting Wish an annoyed look. “These men contain themselves with chains enchanted to subdue werewolves with full powers.”
Powers these men didn’t have. So long as Leila and she stayed away from where they were chained, they would be safe.
The thought of crazed wolves still made Mary’s knees weaken. If it weren’t for Aiyanna and Wish’s earnest reassurances about the men, coupled with their lacking abilities most werewolves had, Mary might have run from the firehouse, dragging Leila along with her.
Something wonderful—fragile, but worth cultivating—was forming between her and Raphael, but giant, relentlessly angry wolves were up there with large cats in her book.
She learned the loss of their powers was another punishment for their crimes. No one could tell Mary what the weres, namely Raphael, had done to deserve this.
“They’re all good men,” Aiyanna had assured her. “Whatever they’ve done, they’ve been punished enough for it. I promise you, there is no safer place than here.”
Then why don’t you live here? Leila had signed, earning a growl from the shapeshifter.
“Cael won’t let me,”Aiyanna said.
In keeping with the urban fantasy genre, there is a lot of violence in this book, so it probably isn't for the squeamish. The second installment is scheduled for a February release, and Samantha is already hard at work on her third book.
Punished is an ebook, and you can find it on Amazon and Barnes and Noble. Please visit Samantha's blog HERE.
FYI: Shanley "borrowed" here pen name from her great-grandfather, renowned New Orleans architect Sam Stone.
Please let me know if you read Punished. I'd like to know your thoughts!
Mary, one of the main characters, loves drinking hot chocolate. New Orleans has many local coffee shops, but Mary doesn't appreciate the chicory-rich coffee the city is known for....instead she prefers a rather thick hot chocolate that I will feature on tomorrow's post. Please come back tomorrow so you can make Mary's favorite hot chocolate!
June 16, 2016
After her parents were murdered, Mary Newman had to take care of her younger sister Leila. There were a lot of debs to pay, and although Mary’s recent job as a nanny pays well, and they can live rent-free in the Van Otterloo’s carriage house, Mary hates it. She is tired of getting pawed by lascivious men, as unfortunately her job involves doing just about anything Richard Van Otterloo makes her do. One evening, for a change, Mary and Leila go to a bar, and Mary is entirely captivated by a man who just walked in: Raphael Saar, who is accompanied by his equally gorgeous friends. Then, they notice that Leila’s drink has been tempered with. They all go back to the sisters’ place, and one of them, Alexandre, stays over; he’s quite smitten with Leila. But things only started, because the man who drugged Leila’s drink belongs to a human trafficking ring.
Women are being kidnapped in New Orleans, and while werewolves are not to get involved in human problems, Raphael cannot help himself. He hates what is happening, and he accepts the consequences of his acts, whatever the were authorities decide regarding his fate. Samantha Stone has created a meticulously detailed, innovative, and captivating world in PUNISHED, putting new twists on werewolves, and other paranormal creatures as well. I had never read about banshees, but they are something else! I loved them; they are very much different quite fascinating. Mary appears meek but her strength goes deep, and she is rather fearless. The weres are extremely complex characters, most of all Raphael: he appears brusque, almost brutal, and it seems it is the way of the were, but merely externally. He has a heart of gold, but he cannot tolerate injustice, and is willing to fight for what he believes in. Given Raphael’s rough demeanour, I was pleasantly surprised at how tender and respectful the romance angle developed. And there was an epic plot twist that nearly made me drop my kindle, and had me rushing to the conclusion like crazy! The reasons for the title are also very interesting, and a small element of note: the cover perfectly represents Mary and Raphael. I must also absolutely stress the exceptional quality of Ms. Stone’s writing: her prose is easy, flowing, and her use of language is superb! I can’t wait for the next instalment; the Crescent City Creatures series has launched on a very promising note!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Women are being kidnapped in New Orleans, and while werewolves are not to get involved in human problems, Raphael cannot help himself. He hates what is happening, and he accepts the consequences of his acts, whatever the were authorities decide regarding his fate. Samantha Stone has created a meticulously detailed, innovative, and captivating world in PUNISHED, putting new twists on werewolves, and other paranormal creatures as well. I had never read about banshees, but they are something else! I loved them; they are very much different quite fascinating. Mary appears meek but her strength goes deep, and she is rather fearless. The weres are extremely complex characters, most of all Raphael: he appears brusque, almost brutal, and it seems it is the way of the were, but merely externally. He has a heart of gold, but he cannot tolerate injustice, and is willing to fight for what he believes in. Given Raphael’s rough demeanour, I was pleasantly surprised at how tender and respectful the romance angle developed. And there was an epic plot twist that nearly made me drop my kindle, and had me rushing to the conclusion like crazy! The reasons for the title are also very interesting, and a small element of note: the cover perfectly represents Mary and Raphael. I must also absolutely stress the exceptional quality of Ms. Stone’s writing: her prose is easy, flowing, and her use of language is superb! I can’t wait for the next instalment; the Crescent City Creatures series has launched on a very promising note!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 5, 2015
Book: Punished (Crescent City Creatures Book 1)
Author: Samantha Stone
Publication Date: 11/23/2015
Reviewed by: Tammy Payne- Book Nook Nuts
My Rating: 4 Stars
REVIEW
If you are, into paranormal that gives you many various creatures then this is the book for you. We get a bit of a cocktail here werewolves who are being punished for little things they have done and they want freedom but at what cost? Raphael meets Mary who is a very strong and loving woman but she is now fighting for her life. Can Raphael save her? And is Mary what she seems to be? We get action and the romance is very sweet between this couple. The writing was good and the characters are strong. However, it seemed a bit jumpy so I found I lost myself here and there. And it could use more proofing.
If this was a first in the series then I can't wait to hear about the other characters.
I was gifted a copy of this book for my honest review.
Samantha Stone
Author: Samantha Stone
Publication Date: 11/23/2015
Reviewed by: Tammy Payne- Book Nook Nuts
My Rating: 4 Stars
REVIEW
If you are, into paranormal that gives you many various creatures then this is the book for you. We get a bit of a cocktail here werewolves who are being punished for little things they have done and they want freedom but at what cost? Raphael meets Mary who is a very strong and loving woman but she is now fighting for her life. Can Raphael save her? And is Mary what she seems to be? We get action and the romance is very sweet between this couple. The writing was good and the characters are strong. However, it seemed a bit jumpy so I found I lost myself here and there. And it could use more proofing.
If this was a first in the series then I can't wait to hear about the other characters.
I was gifted a copy of this book for my honest review.
Samantha Stone
June 9, 2016
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Punished, the first book in the Crescent City Creatures Series is an amazing paranormal/shifter story that grabs in the prologue and won't let you go until you've read the final page. It is a fast-paced, well-written story with characters you can't help but love. It's about love, forgiveness, second chances, family, and finding yourself. Once you start reading Punished, you won't want to put it down.
Merged review:
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Punished, the first book in the Crescent City Creatures Series is an amazing paranormal/shifter story that grabs in the prologue and won't let you go until you've read the final page. It is a fast-paced, well-written story with characters you can't help but love. It's about love, forgiveness, second chances, family, and finding yourself. Once you start reading Punished, you won't want to put it down.
Punished, the first book in the Crescent City Creatures Series is an amazing paranormal/shifter story that grabs in the prologue and won't let you go until you've read the final page. It is a fast-paced, well-written story with characters you can't help but love. It's about love, forgiveness, second chances, family, and finding yourself. Once you start reading Punished, you won't want to put it down.
Merged review:
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Punished, the first book in the Crescent City Creatures Series is an amazing paranormal/shifter story that grabs in the prologue and won't let you go until you've read the final page. It is a fast-paced, well-written story with characters you can't help but love. It's about love, forgiveness, second chances, family, and finding yourself. Once you start reading Punished, you won't want to put it down.
decided-not-to-read
August 15, 2016Lacks the spice I like in my PNR books. Sex scenes are Not fade to black.
November 10, 2018
Unusual paranormals. Interesting take on the supernatural. Not believable, but cute. Mary and Raphael were not the brightest in the group. In fact, their naivety caused their problems. I did love the cast of characters that surrounded them. Very loving group. I found the writing very slow and found myself wandering. I do recommend because it was cute and funny in some places. The supporting cast was pretty good.
November 11, 2017
Highly recommend this unusual mix of supernaturals
Supes whose powers have been taken from them as punishment, unknowing supes, bad supes, supes I've never heard of. What's not to like? Throw in signing (sign language) supes, and dead supes, romance and vengeance. This will be a great series. No cliffhanger! (I hate cliffhangers)
Supes whose powers have been taken from them as punishment, unknowing supes, bad supes, supes I've never heard of. What's not to like? Throw in signing (sign language) supes, and dead supes, romance and vengeance. This will be a great series. No cliffhanger! (I hate cliffhangers)
January 6, 2017
I won a copy of Punished a while back in a goodreads giveaway. Now, I love paranormal books and I really enjoy paranormal romance, which is why I wanted to read this book. My biggest problem with this book was that there were a good number of errors and awkward sentences that should have been caught and fixed in editing. I thought the book was ok and I enjoyed where the story went and how it ended. I did feel like there were some unanswered questions such as Leila's fate and the full story of what happened to Leila's and Mary's parents. The relationship between Mary and Raphael was pretty cute. There were other pairings that would also be cute but did not officially get together in this book.
January 30, 2016
After her parents were murdered, Mary Newman had to take care of her younger sister Leila. There were a lot of debs to pay, and although Mary’s recent job as a nanny pays well, and they can live rent-free in the Van Otterloo’s carriage house, Mary hates it. She is tired of getting pawed by lascivious men, as unfortunately her job involves doing just about anything Richard Van Otterloo makes her do. One evening, for a change, Mary and Leila go to a bar, and Mary is entirely captivated by a man who just walked in: Raphael Saar, who is accompanied by his equally gorgeous friends. Then, they notice that Leila’s drink has been tempered with. They all go back to the sisters’ place, and one of them, Alexandre, stays over; he’s quite smitten with Leila. But things only started, because the man who drugged Leila’s drink belongs to a human trafficking ring.
Women are being kidnapped in New Orleans, and while werewolves are not to get involved in human problems, Raphael cannot help himself. He hates what is happening, and he accepts the consequences of his acts, whatever the were authorities decide regarding his fate. Samantha Stone has created a meticulously detailed, innovative, and captivating world in PUNISHED, putting new twists on werewolves, and other paranormal creatures as well. I had never read about banshees, but they are something else! I loved them; they are very much different quite fascinating. Mary appears meek but her strength goes deep, and she is rather fearless. The weres are extremely complex characters, most of all Raphael: he appears brusque, almost brutal, and it seems it is the way of the were, but merely externally. He has a heart of gold, but he cannot tolerate injustice, and is willing to fight for what he believes in. Given Raphael’s rough demeanour, I was pleasantly surprised at how tender and respectful the romance angle developed. And there was an epic plot twist that nearly made me drop my kindle, and had me rushing to the conclusion like crazy! The reasons for the title are also very interesting, and a small element of note: the cover perfectly represents Mary and Raphael. I must also absolutely stress the exceptional quality of Ms. Stone’s writing: her prose is easy, flowing, and her use of language is superb! I can’t wait for the next instalment; the Crescent City Creatures series has launched on a very promising note!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Women are being kidnapped in New Orleans, and while werewolves are not to get involved in human problems, Raphael cannot help himself. He hates what is happening, and he accepts the consequences of his acts, whatever the were authorities decide regarding his fate. Samantha Stone has created a meticulously detailed, innovative, and captivating world in PUNISHED, putting new twists on werewolves, and other paranormal creatures as well. I had never read about banshees, but they are something else! I loved them; they are very much different quite fascinating. Mary appears meek but her strength goes deep, and she is rather fearless. The weres are extremely complex characters, most of all Raphael: he appears brusque, almost brutal, and it seems it is the way of the were, but merely externally. He has a heart of gold, but he cannot tolerate injustice, and is willing to fight for what he believes in. Given Raphael’s rough demeanour, I was pleasantly surprised at how tender and respectful the romance angle developed. And there was an epic plot twist that nearly made me drop my kindle, and had me rushing to the conclusion like crazy! The reasons for the title are also very interesting, and a small element of note: the cover perfectly represents Mary and Raphael. I must also absolutely stress the exceptional quality of Ms. Stone’s writing: her prose is easy, flowing, and her use of language is superb! I can’t wait for the next instalment; the Crescent City Creatures series has launched on a very promising note!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 6, 2016
I didn’t know what to expect with this book but a loved it. Yes it’s a werewolf romantic suspense story but it also has other paranormal characters as well and it was so good, I couldn’t put it down and read it in one sitting….. even though I needed matchsticks to keep my eyes open the following day!
Raphael is an exiled werewolf who lives with his fellow exiled werewolves in New Orleans namely Alex, Cael, Sebastian and Heath. He knows that human women are being abducted and killed and he decides to go ‘hunting’ for the person abducting them in a local nightclub with 2 of his pack mates. It is there that he meets Mary for the first time after warning her that her sister’s drink has just been spiked. Once outside, Raphael interrogates the abductor to try and find out who he’s working for while Alex takes Mary and her sister Leila home and stays the night to protect them. The girls live in a guest cottage on Richard’s (Mary’s employer) estate and when he sees Alex leaving with Leila, he reacts by hitting Mary and telling her she belongs to him. Against her better judgment, Mary decides to stay in his employ and later that night, she is almost killed by him and his friends but is rescued by Raphael who finds out from Alex about Richard hitting her that morning.
With the girls safely resident in the fire house with the werewolves, Raphael continues in his investigation into the human trafficking and murders but unfortunately for him, because of his exiled status and the fact that is believed to have killed humans, he faces execution in accordance with their laws. The book is non-stop action and there are twists and turns aplenty…. Hence staying up late into the night to finish it. We learn that Alex is the joker of the bunch whilst Cael tends to be the brooding silent type. Sebastian is the business minded one who ensures that none of them want for anything whilst Heath doesn’t seem to have any particular character trait. They are a rag tag group who, whilst having completely different characters, gel very well together but that can only be expected of people who have spent hundreds of years living together. By the time the book ends, the numbers in their clan are increased by banshees, a ghost and another shifter and I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
Raphael is an exiled werewolf who lives with his fellow exiled werewolves in New Orleans namely Alex, Cael, Sebastian and Heath. He knows that human women are being abducted and killed and he decides to go ‘hunting’ for the person abducting them in a local nightclub with 2 of his pack mates. It is there that he meets Mary for the first time after warning her that her sister’s drink has just been spiked. Once outside, Raphael interrogates the abductor to try and find out who he’s working for while Alex takes Mary and her sister Leila home and stays the night to protect them. The girls live in a guest cottage on Richard’s (Mary’s employer) estate and when he sees Alex leaving with Leila, he reacts by hitting Mary and telling her she belongs to him. Against her better judgment, Mary decides to stay in his employ and later that night, she is almost killed by him and his friends but is rescued by Raphael who finds out from Alex about Richard hitting her that morning.
With the girls safely resident in the fire house with the werewolves, Raphael continues in his investigation into the human trafficking and murders but unfortunately for him, because of his exiled status and the fact that is believed to have killed humans, he faces execution in accordance with their laws. The book is non-stop action and there are twists and turns aplenty…. Hence staying up late into the night to finish it. We learn that Alex is the joker of the bunch whilst Cael tends to be the brooding silent type. Sebastian is the business minded one who ensures that none of them want for anything whilst Heath doesn’t seem to have any particular character trait. They are a rag tag group who, whilst having completely different characters, gel very well together but that can only be expected of people who have spent hundreds of years living together. By the time the book ends, the numbers in their clan are increased by banshees, a ghost and another shifter and I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
February 4, 2016
The paranormal world Ms. Stone created was unique and interesting. This alone made reading this story enjoyable. The “Weres” in this story, are able to control elements, not something you generally, see in other books in this genre. The characters were all likable and relate-able. The setting of New Orleans brought flavor to the story, as New Orleans has a rich history and culture of paranormal activity.
Mary is a young woman hurt by the past and not having a much better present. She struggle to help her sister and not get fire. Also, she has to face demons at her place of employment.
She meets Raphael and her world changes forever. Even though, she is a relate-able character I felt she went along with things to easily or she acted to rash; thus, placing her in even more danger.
Raphael is a brooding man determine to pay for things he had no control. He blames himself for all the pain and lost he inflected on knowing onto others. Therefore, he has a hero complex. He wants to save everyone while risking his life and in turn those around him. I understand why he wants to help others but I felt he should have planned things out better before he reacted. At time he does this but not often enough.
The only thing I dislike was how easy everyone fell in to place. There was no fight about staying with each other. No, remark about how fast their life as changed. Everyone just went with it. I can understand seeing things you never have before and needing someone to count on, but with no break down doesn’t feel right. There should have been more conflict to make the story for real.
Overall, this is a good start to a series. I can’t wait to see what happens next to the characters. I would recommend this story if you like shifters and everything paranormal.
3.5 star read
**I was given a copy for an honest review. This plays no part in how I felt about this story.**
Mary is a young woman hurt by the past and not having a much better present. She struggle to help her sister and not get fire. Also, she has to face demons at her place of employment.
She meets Raphael and her world changes forever. Even though, she is a relate-able character I felt she went along with things to easily or she acted to rash; thus, placing her in even more danger.
Raphael is a brooding man determine to pay for things he had no control. He blames himself for all the pain and lost he inflected on knowing onto others. Therefore, he has a hero complex. He wants to save everyone while risking his life and in turn those around him. I understand why he wants to help others but I felt he should have planned things out better before he reacted. At time he does this but not often enough.
The only thing I dislike was how easy everyone fell in to place. There was no fight about staying with each other. No, remark about how fast their life as changed. Everyone just went with it. I can understand seeing things you never have before and needing someone to count on, but with no break down doesn’t feel right. There should have been more conflict to make the story for real.
Overall, this is a good start to a series. I can’t wait to see what happens next to the characters. I would recommend this story if you like shifters and everything paranormal.
3.5 star read
**I was given a copy for an honest review. This plays no part in how I felt about this story.**
March 24, 2016
Take a whole slew of mythical creatures, mix with a heaping helping of werewolf, add love, mystery, revenge, pour it into the city of New Orleans and you have Punished by Samantha Stone. And the combination more than works for this story!!
Raphael is one of four exiled werewolves who live together in New Orleans, and he just knows his life is going to be ending soon – something he is perfectly okay with until he meets Mary. After their eyes meet across the crowded club, he is instantly hooked and he wants to do nothing more than to protect her and make sure she is taken care of. Mary feels herself pulled and trusting Raphael from the instant she met him, and that is not something that comes easy for her. Her employer is horrible, abusive, and she wants to leave, but since she is the sole guardian and provider for her younger sister, quitting is not exactly an option until it becomes the only choice.
Nothing is as it seems in the city of New Orleans…and that includes the people Mary finds surrounding her; however, one thing is perfectly clear, she has fallen for the werewolf who came to her and her sister’s aid in the club, and she never wants to be apart from him. With a countdown clock sitting over Raphael’s head, will they find a way to be together before time is out? Be careful who you trust because not everyone is a friend…nor are they human.
The story was captivating and the main characters were well developed and endearing. There were even a few twists I wasn’t expecting. Now that I have had a taste of some of the supporting characters in this book though, I can’t wait to read their stories!! There were times that the story felt rushed and off beat, but for the most part I loved it and am eagerly anticipating the next book in the series! 4 stars!
Raphael is one of four exiled werewolves who live together in New Orleans, and he just knows his life is going to be ending soon – something he is perfectly okay with until he meets Mary. After their eyes meet across the crowded club, he is instantly hooked and he wants to do nothing more than to protect her and make sure she is taken care of. Mary feels herself pulled and trusting Raphael from the instant she met him, and that is not something that comes easy for her. Her employer is horrible, abusive, and she wants to leave, but since she is the sole guardian and provider for her younger sister, quitting is not exactly an option until it becomes the only choice.
Nothing is as it seems in the city of New Orleans…and that includes the people Mary finds surrounding her; however, one thing is perfectly clear, she has fallen for the werewolf who came to her and her sister’s aid in the club, and she never wants to be apart from him. With a countdown clock sitting over Raphael’s head, will they find a way to be together before time is out? Be careful who you trust because not everyone is a friend…nor are they human.
The story was captivating and the main characters were well developed and endearing. There were even a few twists I wasn’t expecting. Now that I have had a taste of some of the supporting characters in this book though, I can’t wait to read their stories!! There were times that the story felt rushed and off beat, but for the most part I loved it and am eagerly anticipating the next book in the series! 4 stars!
January 31, 2016
I am so hoping there will be more to come.... this story will grab your attention from the very beginning. Mary handmade a huge change from the beginning as a nanny/slave that has lost her fun and living past to this early 20something old lady. Her boss is not human and will use her for anything he wants her to do including being a waitress for his 'friends' and being felt up. Mary has no other choice her parents were murdered and her little sister was there and saw it, her sister have a very big surprise to tell is her story is ever to be written or she comes out to tell Mary. Raphael is a convicted werewolf and has been in New Orleans for centuries trying to live his life helping humans until his death. One night watching woman at a club from becoming victims of paranormal drugging woman's drinks he came across a beautiful woman and her hearing impaired little sister and he saved them but also he felt a connection to the woman. Mary was very grateful for the Greek God saving her sister's life. Mary and Raphael both couldn't get the other out of their minds later on.
Mary is a banchee as her sister, Raphael and his pack are werewolves, Aiyanna a close.and trusted friend and savior is a whopas cat, there are also boto's and they are dolphin parasite shifters that are killing woman. Wish is a ghost but people can see, feel, hear and work like any body living. There are witches but only a couple are mentioned. I can't wait for more of this series, this was a super awesome story.
Mary is a banchee as her sister, Raphael and his pack are werewolves, Aiyanna a close.and trusted friend and savior is a whopas cat, there are also boto's and they are dolphin parasite shifters that are killing woman. Wish is a ghost but people can see, feel, hear and work like any body living. There are witches but only a couple are mentioned. I can't wait for more of this series, this was a super awesome story.
February 15, 2017
Awkward, disjointed dialogue. 2 dimensional characters
January 30, 2016
I love a great paranormal story. Punished has everything I look for. Werewolves, banshees, and many others are all found within this story. I really wanted to love Punished. I tried to love it but for some reason I couldn't totally get into it. There were terms in the story that I didn't know what was being talked about. I also felt that the story jumped around some. One minute a set of characters were having a conversation and then all of sudden it was a different group of characters. There was no lead in to the switch in settings/characters.
Mary had such great potential, yet I felt she fell short. She deserved to be incredible strong and self sufficient yet she fell to her mates demands and wants almost everytime. When she did go against what her mate wanted she would be doing it for her mate. I wanted her to stand up and say HEY! I have skills to, use me, utilize what I have to offer... but it didn't happen.
I feel like this series has great potential and I am hoping to get my hands on book 2 to see if it all comes together. Maybe there was just too much going on in book one to have it all come together as nice and easy as I would have wanted.
Mary had such great potential, yet I felt she fell short. She deserved to be incredible strong and self sufficient yet she fell to her mates demands and wants almost everytime. When she did go against what her mate wanted she would be doing it for her mate. I wanted her to stand up and say HEY! I have skills to, use me, utilize what I have to offer... but it didn't happen.
I feel like this series has great potential and I am hoping to get my hands on book 2 to see if it all comes together. Maybe there was just too much going on in book one to have it all come together as nice and easy as I would have wanted.
January 24, 2016
Raphael Saar is a werewolf who has been exiled to live without his full powers, and under threat of a death sentence. He and the other criminal werewolves live in New Orleans. They have discovered someone in the area is dealing in human trafficking, and are determined to put a stop to it.
Mary Newman has been doing her best to look after her younger sister since the death of their parents. She knows now that taking the job as nanny to a rich family was the wrong choice. The man of the house is making her life a misery.
When on a rare evening out with her sister they draw the wrong kind of attention.
This book is obviously the start of what is going to be a great series. The unlikely hero and his pack are all strong, sexy and incredible brave. Our heroine discovers she has more strength to draw from than she ever dreamed. The main villains of the book are supernatural creatures that are completely new to me, and very nasty. Lots of action, a few laughs and some spicy sex scenes. I can't wait to read the next book. I loved it.
Mary Newman has been doing her best to look after her younger sister since the death of their parents. She knows now that taking the job as nanny to a rich family was the wrong choice. The man of the house is making her life a misery.
When on a rare evening out with her sister they draw the wrong kind of attention.
This book is obviously the start of what is going to be a great series. The unlikely hero and his pack are all strong, sexy and incredible brave. Our heroine discovers she has more strength to draw from than she ever dreamed. The main villains of the book are supernatural creatures that are completely new to me, and very nasty. Lots of action, a few laughs and some spicy sex scenes. I can't wait to read the next book. I loved it.
February 15, 2016
This is a great paranormal fun, interesting and different kind of romances read! Marys parents are dead and she is trying to take care of her sister who's in college! So she works to make the money that her sister needs to be able to finish school! But the jobs she has as a nanny is not like a normal nanny! Marys afraid of her boss and he's not normal she knows that, but she needs the job so the loose hands she has to deal with from her bosses friends she has to deal with! But when things get out of hand Mary finds out that she's anything but human and she's in danger!
The first time Raphel sees Mary he's drawn to her like he's never been drawn to a woman before! So when he finds out she's in danger he goes to help! But when he finds her he also finds out that she's not human and she not a ware like him!
Can he save the girl and himself? Or will things end badly for them both! A great read!
The first time Raphel sees Mary he's drawn to her like he's never been drawn to a woman before! So when he finds out she's in danger he goes to help! But when he finds her he also finds out that she's not human and she not a ware like him!
Can he save the girl and himself? Or will things end badly for them both! A great read!
December 23, 2015
As an exiled werewolf, Raphael Saar knows his actions set him on a path straight to execution but he doesn’t care as long as he puts a stop to the kidnapping of women across New Orleans in this captivating paranormal romance. When I first read the blurb for this story, I was immediately intrigued because of the New Orleans setting (my backyard) and the interesting plot but the beginning of the book had me a bit worried that I wasn’t going to like this book as it seemed a bit scattered, but luckily I continued on and as more became clear the more caught up in the story I became. The author created a paranormal world with a bit of a unique twist to it that certainly has promise, so I will be waiting for the next book to see how the series continues.
See my full review at:
http://erotic.theromancereviews.com/v...
See my full review at:
http://erotic.theromancereviews.com/v...
July 10, 2016
Punished is the first book in the Crescent City Creatures Series. Filled with werewolves, ghosts, banshee, and witches. This series looks very promising.
Rahpael is an exiled werewolf with a passion. He cannot stand the horror of human trafficking that is rampant in New Orleans.. He is wrongly accused of a crime and sentenced to death.
Mary and her sister are destitute after their parents are murdered so Mary takes a job at a wealthy man's home. She is treated badly and does not understand why.
Written with multiple POV's our story is about loyalty, family, love and second chances. It is a well written complex story which i found hard to put down. I look forward to the next in this series.
Punished can be read as a standalone with promise of more to come.
"I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review"
Rahpael is an exiled werewolf with a passion. He cannot stand the horror of human trafficking that is rampant in New Orleans.. He is wrongly accused of a crime and sentenced to death.
Mary and her sister are destitute after their parents are murdered so Mary takes a job at a wealthy man's home. She is treated badly and does not understand why.
Written with multiple POV's our story is about loyalty, family, love and second chances. It is a well written complex story which i found hard to put down. I look forward to the next in this series.
Punished can be read as a standalone with promise of more to come.
"I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review"
February 7, 2016
The multiple POVs are jaw dropping great along with the hot as sin alpha characters they each bring hot to a new level. I could really go on and on all day about the characters but I know for a fact that his paranormal romance story is a must read cover to cover soak every word up great. I loved the end of this story and really craved more of it by the last page I had tears in my eyes thinking the worst then BAM I was hit all at once. I did feel like some of the story was missing and that some parts needing to be explained more but most of the details really brought it out the more and more you read.
***I received this story for free in exchange for an honest review see more of my review @ http://jmhoward2007.blogspot.com/2016... ***
***I received this story for free in exchange for an honest review see more of my review @ http://jmhoward2007.blogspot.com/2016... ***
June 15, 2016
There is so much to love about this book I don’t know where to start. Our hero is an honorable werewolf being punished for a crime he isn’t responsible for. Our heroine is just trying to make ends meet after her parents were killed. She quit school so she could take care of her younger sister. The cast around them each had something to add to the story and I can’t wait till they each get their story. The bad guys are horribly bad and you root for their destruction. This book is for PNR fans and not bad for fans of Urban Fantasy. I look forward to the next installment.
Complimentary copy provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
Complimentary copy provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
February 3, 2016
Punished is a very interesting paranormal story. It has a bit of the innocent vibe to it when reading, even with the talk of killing and death. This story is different in the aspect that we have an alpha male who is not head of his pack but a criminal. The mixing of werewolves, ghosts, banshee, and more keeps you on your toes. Mary is a very strong yet at times gullible character. She was easier to get into than Raphael who at times came across with a juvenile personality even though he has been around for hundreds of years. It says this is book one of Crescent City Creatures. I would read the next one. I was given this story for an honest review and this is mine.
February 13, 2016
Gifted copy for honest review.
I really enjoyed reading Punished. This is a story about Raphael and Mary. The story and characters were great. Raphael who is a werewolf and Mary is a banshee, although she doesn't know that yet). Raphael and a few other werewolves are exile due to crimes that supposedly committed. Mary is trying to support her sister after their parents were murdered. I like that Ms. Stone added new paranormal characters to the story and I look forward to reading about the other members of this clan. If you enjoy paranormal you will enjoy reading this.
I really enjoyed reading Punished. This is a story about Raphael and Mary. The story and characters were great. Raphael who is a werewolf and Mary is a banshee, although she doesn't know that yet). Raphael and a few other werewolves are exile due to crimes that supposedly committed. Mary is trying to support her sister after their parents were murdered. I like that Ms. Stone added new paranormal characters to the story and I look forward to reading about the other members of this clan. If you enjoy paranormal you will enjoy reading this.
February 3, 2016
I went into Punished Crescent City Creatures book 1 by Samantha Stone with no idea what to expect. I got an awesome story. I got unique mystical creatures that leap of the pages . It was so fun to read. I adore the characters of Raphael and Mary. I could feel their pain and then see hope after they meet. I loved watching them become one. Samantha Stone threw in some surprises and I ain't telling.
February 5, 2016
I really enjoyed this book. It had a few paranormal characters that I wasn't familiar with. There were also a few that I haven't read much about. I liked the incorporation of the added characters. Raphael and Mary's story was sweet and very powerful at the same time. It's a must read. I look forward to reading the rest of the series. I received this book from IndieSage PR in exchange for an honest review.
June 9, 2016
OMG, I just finished this book last night & I want more! This book is fantastic. I fell in love with the characters immediately & couldn't wait to find out what happened the further into the book I got. My only complaint is the bomb that got dropped at the end of chapter 10 (no spoilers here, though). I did NOT see that coming at all! I have to read the next one to see what happens next. I was given a copy of this book in return for a fair & honest review.
August 16, 2016
I liked it. It was very thorough in the way it combined the troubles outside of the group with troubles inside the group. The only problem I have with this book and the next one as far as I've read, is the fact that Leila refuses to tell Mary she's dead. If it were me, I would want to know even though she's still able to be around. I do enjoy that Wish is able to stay around. It's nice that Molly still has a family.
August 19, 2016
What a great find. Punished was an unexpected find,was more than I was expecting.
At first I was not sure what to expect. But Samantha Stone looks like an new fresh upcoming writer. Once I started the book I couldn't put it down. What wonderful characters. Can't wait to see what happens with Cale and well you'll figure it out. Great job.
At first I was not sure what to expect. But Samantha Stone looks like an new fresh upcoming writer. Once I started the book I couldn't put it down. What wonderful characters. Can't wait to see what happens with Cale and well you'll figure it out. Great job.
January 26, 2016
Awesome
Awesome!!!
I'm in Banshee love with a Snow wolf
Yup yup
Overall, I'd give this story a B
It had some minor typos but....LOOOOOOVVEEE
My only major issue was the circumstances of Heath's exile.
Awesome!!!
I'm in Banshee love with a Snow wolf
Yup yup
Overall, I'd give this story a B
It had some minor typos but....LOOOOOOVVEEE
My only major issue was the circumstances of Heath's exile.
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