Lineage

by J.N. Sheats

"Cameron, why do you call me dove," I asked, ready for disappointment.
"Because, you bring my soul peace."

Joey Morris has spent her young life moving around the country with her constantly absent mother until finally ending up in the small college town of Portstown, Pennsylvania. Here history is thick in the air and Joey discovers that her family has long reaching roots in the town, dating back to the very first settlement. Because of her heritage she is welcomed into the group of the other founding families, and quickly becomes one of the popular girls in school.

After over a year of the good life and Homecoming just days away, Joey is thrown into a terrifying new reality. Happening across a violent black dog with glowing red eyes, and a handsome stranger that puts his life on the line to save her only to stick a gun in her chest moments later.

Now people are dying in Portstown, people close to Joey and she doesn't understand why. Will Joey have anyone left after she discovers the truth about her past?

Cameron Davis is a man from another life, for years he has been focused on his mission. The drive that keeps his soul locked inside a physical body, staving off the reaper. That all changes when he is given the task of protecting Joey and stopping the attacks.

This girl makes him weak and brings up memories of a past he left behind nearly a century ago. What secrets lie beyond his contract with the elusive Warner family, and why does this girl need protecting?

Lineage is a young adult novel but is recommended for readers 16+ due to violence.

Genres: Paranormal

469 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 21, 2016

About the author

A creative mind trapped in a world of reality Jackie Sheats expresses herself in anyway that she can. From illustrating and writing to dancing like a mental patient while preparing dinner. Living in Maryland with her logic driven husband, their six cats, the dog, and a tank full of fish, Jackie spends her free time doing the backlog of housework and studying for her Masters in Illustration. A movie junkie, video game addict, and secret ninja in training she lives life under the idea that "if you don't know how to do something, go learn it!"

Reviews

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Stars

“I froze at sound of loose bits of gravel tumbling down from the incline the iron train tracks sat on at my back. The old decayed rails, no longer in use expect for ghoulish local history, cut Portstown into north and south. Countless paranormal investigators visited this area with hand-held cameras and other strange equipment, stating the tracks were a perfect place to catch a ghost on film. Then, there was the bridge a quarter of a mile up the tracks with a gruesome history of suicides.
It was the influence of those tall tales and the memory of Marty’s creepy voice as she told them that made my spine tingle, because I wasn’t a true believer. My fear was a phantom response.”


Lineage is the spellbinding first book in the J.J Morris Series, by J.N Sheats. It is a fantastic YA, supernatural/paranormal suspense and mystery. It is so brilliant- wonderfully imaginative and skilfully written-containing so many layers and such a complex and thrilling storyline. The author had me guessing the whole way through the book; there were so many twists, turns and surprises that my mind was racing along trying to keep up with everything that was happening. But at the same time, Ms Sheats style is so easy, natural and fascinating- that reading this book is an exciting adventure!
Joey Morris has spent a great deal of her life moving around from town to town. It wasn’t always like that, but after her father died her mother didn’t seem to be able to settle in any one place for very long. But all that changed about 18 months ago- they moved back to Portstown, which is her mother’s home town and where generations of their family have lived before them. Joey was accepted by the other teenagers in town, settling into school easily, even finding a place amongst the ‘popular’ kids- something that had never happened to her before. She finally felt like she belonged somewhere and had a group of really great friends who were really more like family than her mother and brother.
When her boyfriend ditches her after a football, Joey finds herself walking home in the dark. It’s not long before she senses that she isn’t alone and that there appears to be a large animal stalking her in the shadows. When a large ‘dog’ with glowing red eyes emerges from the shadows and acts aggressively towards Joey, she becomes incredibly frightened and her mind races trying to think of what to do, as she doubts that she would be able to outrun the large, powerful and menacing looking creature.

“What I came face to face with stripped away rational thought, and replaced it with a crazed impulse of flight. My mind was empty, too paralyzed by a creature in the tree-line. I wanted to look away but couldn’t, my body wanting to run but unable to move. My breath choked in my throat, leaving me lightheaded while the small portion of me that remained functioning fought to accept reality.
There, down the incline of stone, was a mass. A large...thing hiding between two maple trees, eerie eyes glowing. The ominous shine was not reflected light from somewhere else, because there was no other light and the glow was too intense for a reflection. It pierced through the darkness, targeting me.
A dog, or wolf—maybe both, easily the size of a fawn or calf. With a misty black body I swear I could see through, and faded out of the shadowed tree-line. White fangs extended from a slightly parted mouth to intimidate. It was working.”

All of a sudden a man appears and comes to her rescue. He intrigues her with all his bad-boy, dangerous vibe. He warns her that she will only be safe in her home and to make sure she is always home before dark.


“Hey,” a soft voice said. “Settle yourself.”
"A male voice—a soothing male voice that somehow eased my terror.
I looked, praying the person wasn’t another cruel mental joke, and as I did I met the most amazing pair of deep azure eyes. All worry and fear vanished in those blue pools. My breath caught in my throat, my knees went weak, and I felt my palms start to sweat."

But the next night her friends convince her to go out, as it’s the last night of the summer break and school will be beginning again. The ‘dog’ appears again and seems to have brought a friend. And once again the striking stranger saves her from becoming dog food. As the story unfolds, there are more and more reports of dog sightings and attacks. People are dying and Joey can’t help but wonder if somehow it’s all her fault.
Cameron has a job to do and that is to keep Joey safe and try to discover what is happening in the historical town and why the ‘dogs’ seem to be attracted to Joey and the town. But he has had a difficult and somewhat traumatic past, which leaves him moody and somewhat aloof. He is drawn to Joey; she affects him like no one else has in a very long time. He finds solace and peace in her presence that soothes his tortured soul.
There is a lot more to the whole situation than meets the eye. Discoveries are made and layers uncovered- throwing them into a situation that Joey thought only ever happened in movies, scary books or nightmares. With danger mounting and sinister forces at play, Joey and Cameron must join forces to figure it all out before it’s too late. When people close to her become the victims, she is determined to do everything she can to keep her friends safe. What is happening in town, and why? Will Cameron be able to protect Joey and keep her safe, or will he succumb to the evil that is invading the town? What will Joey discover and what part does she have in it all? Will she be able to save her friends? There is also a spark between Cameron and her. Will they explore this connection, or will circumstances keep them apart?

Wow! What an extraordinary story this is! I really didn’t know what to expect when I first read the blurb and thought I would just ‘give-it-a-go’, believing it would be a 3 or 4 star read. But I was intrigued enough to see where it would take me. To say I am pleasantly surprised would be an understatement. This deserves every bit of the 5 star rating I gave it and if I could have awarded it more stars, I would have!
I opened the book and by the end of the first chapter I was hooked. There was no way I was going to be able to put the book down. I was completely engrossed in this wonderful tale and stayed up till 3 in the morning, just so I could finish it and find out what happened.
The characters are wonderful. They are fully developed, interesting and endearing. I really enjoyed watching as Joey grew in confidence and develop strengths she never thought she was capable of. I loved Cameron. He is so mysterious, tortured and has that dangerous vibe that I find intriguing. I really would like to know more about his background and situation. I hope that we get more of his story in the next book. All the secondary characters had a part to play and added interest to the whole story.
This is a very rich and vividly detailed story that has a fast pace and a smooth flow.
The story continues in the next book ‘Dreamscape’ and I really can’t wait to dive into that book. I really think this is one of the best books that I have ever read!!
A riveting read!

Thank you Ms. Sheats!

[Laura · Rating 3 out of 5]

Just ok

Unfortunately I found this book all a little too confusing. There was a sentence when the leading lady said, “I’m so lost”..... so was I girl!
An interesting story which reminded me a little of Buffy mixed with Twilight.
It just wasn’t for me.

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I give Lineage (J.J. Morris, book 1) by J.N. Sheets 4 stars.

Joey has finally found a place where she seems to belong. After her father’s death, her mother moved them around constantly. She never made friends quickly, she was always just the new girl. Not to mention, why bother with friends when she wouldn’t be here that long anyway?

But this town is different. She was quickly brought into the group of popular kids at high school. She has never had many friends, and was never accepted by the popular kids. It has something to do with her family. Apparently they were one of the found families. Besides this, she has vastly become good friends with these kids and feels like maybe she belongs here.

Then one night she has an unbelievable experience. She does not believe in the supernatural, but things happen that she cannot explain. She is very frightened but quickly realizes that maybe there is more going on in this town than anyone thinks. And then there is the stranger that makes her feel things she has never felt before. The way he seems to look right into her. But then the next minute, he treats her like a child. He is so frustrating, but she can’t get over the feeling she has for him.

Before she can decide what to do, strange things start happening in her town and people are dying. What is really going on? Is there anything she can do? What do these strangers have to do with it?

This was a very enjoyable book. It is a young adult book, and while there is a lot taking place in high school and such, it is story for all ages. I am far removed from young adult age group and I couldn’t put it down. The characters are written well and the story itself kept me intrigued and never once bored. I kept reading until way past my bedtime. I highly recommend this book.

[Claire Griffiths · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars

Lineage_ JJ Morris 1 written by J.N. Shears

Joey has spent years feeling just a bit lost since her father past away.  Unable to fit in as her mother continued to move her around from place to place also becoming more distant as time goes on never making time for Joey.  Not that it bothered her anymore being so used to her mother not being home.  

Finally Joey has settled in a place called portstown with she learns her heritage and that her family is one of the founding family's.  With this knowledge she gains a group of friends and also a boyfriend.  One night at a school football game he decides to go to a after party Joey doesn't want to go to.  She chooses to walk home along the tracks being a little later than normal Joey has an unsettling feeling of being watched.  Seeing deep red eyes and a deep growl that's chills her soul Joey freezes unable to understand if this is really happening then suddenly there's a beautifully handsome man she's struck by how stunning his is then his anger screaming and her to run.  

After the race of her life they make it back to her home the man she learns is named Cameron Davis it takes seconds for things to change he went from saving her to pointing a gun at her chest.  Unable to understand she learns of the black dog in the woods and that Cameron isn't a normal man just helping a young girl out.

Will Joey be able to cope with all she learns about the supernatural happenings in her town and the founding family's.  Will she be able to stop all the murders in the town she's come to love.  Can Cameron keep her safe and unharmed and stop this unknown force from getting Joey even with all her stubbornness to learn what he thinks she doesn't  need to know.  

[Morgan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lineage is the first book in the J.J Morris series, and happens to be the first book that I've read from JN Sheats. I was honestly very surprised by how much I enjoyed this book. It has something for everyone, there's romance, some suspense, definitely some drama, and even more paranormal aspects. I would give this book 4 stars!

Joey Morris has moved around so much, her mother has been in and out of her life but never staying too long. She learned that she can only depend on herself to make sure she's taken care of and has what she needs. She finds out that her blood line goes all the way back to the first settlers of her town. Since she's part of that bloodline, everyone in the town is quick to welcome her, and make her feel like she belongs. But is that really a good thing? It only takes one terrifying night for everything to change for her. Everything is changing and not in a good way, she's being attacked and people are dying all around her. But she has no idea what she's dealing with. Who can she trust to explain to her what's happening?

Enter Cameron Davis who has one mission in life. He's been keeping his soul locked up tight inside his physical body, all the while starving off the reaper. So what happens when he meets Joey, and gets saddled with the task of keeping her safe? What happens when long lost secrets start to resurface? Who is Joey Morris? Why does she need so much protection? Can Cameron even protect her?

This book was amazing! It captivated me from the first chapter and I can't wait to see what happens next in the series! I'm ready for book 2!

[Sandra Kaye · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lineage by JN Sheats is the first in the JJ Morris series, a young adult novel. Lineage is different from Sheats’ other books to this point. However no less intense. Sheats pulls you in from page one and keeps you on the edge of your seat for the whole ride. Lineage has the full package. Mystery , suspense,revenge, magic , sexual tension and a surprise twist.
Lineage follows Joey Morris, a high school teen and her A-list friends as their world is turned upside down. Joey prides herself on being the calm, smart, reasonable one of the group. While Marty is glamorous and over the top. Jamie is the rebel occult girl that everyone knows. David and Allen are your token jocks, and Ali is your typical mean girl.
For the first time in Joey’s life she feels like she belongs. She has spent most of her life moving from place to place with her only comfort being her books the knowledge that someday she would go to a small town college and finally have a stable life. One she controls. She found that with the group of Royals in Portstown a year and a half ago. Found a place she belonged . A group of people who accepted her.
Now everything she knows is questioned. Her life becomes a waking nightmare. Where she’s drawn unexplainably to the hot guy she just met.He saved her, then threatened her at gunpoint. She doesn’t want to admit she wants this crazy hot guy that seems to appear just when she needs saving or that the pet name he has for her calls to something deep inside her. It’s like a part of her has always known him.
JN Sheats has pulled me into this world. I'm now one of what I'm sure will be a large fan following. Can't wait for book two. Keep up the great work.

[Angelina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lineage by J.N. Sheats is the first book in the J.J. Morris paranormal/supernatural series for young adults and introduces Joey Morris who is about to discover that the world is a very different place to what she believed and the stories her father told her when she was younger may actually be true.


“No matter how silly that sounded or how much I rejected the idea of a supernatural world, in this moment I knew it to be true.”


Following the death of her father when she was aged 11, Joey spent several years moving around the country with her mother and younger brother. They finally settle in Portstown, Pennsylvania when Joey’s mother is left the old family home, but Joey continues to care for herself as her mother and brother regularly leave town. However, Joey is welcomed with open arms by the popular crowd known as ‘The Royals’ and she finally feels like she has the family she's always wanted.


“We were our own little family, respected and awed in school and outside as well. It was laughable, but we very well could get away with murder if we wanted.”


18 months later, Joey is walking home one Friday night and comes face to face with a back dog that has glowing red eyes. Cameron Davis, a handsome blue-eyed stranger, appears and risks his own life to save her's. From that evening onwards, Joey's life changes as people die and she learns of her family's heritage and secrets. Cameron continues to protect Joey and the attraction between them grows even though Cameron tries to fight it and has his own secrets to deal with. Despite this being a paranormal/supernatural story, I feel there's also a love story involving Joey and Cameron interwoven with it.


Lineage had me gripped from page 1 and J.N. Sheats is a master with words. The descriptions used are amazing and pulled me right into what was happening. I was able to feel Joey's terror and these scenes would fit perfectly into a horror or gothic novel. I crumbled when Joey crumbled and became angry about being kept in the dark when she felt the same. I was there every step of the journey that Joey experienced on the roller-coaster of life. However, there were times when I became frustrated with Joey due to her often impulsive attitude and I really felt for Cameron who then had to risk his own live again to protect her. My favourite part of this story is when Joey and Cameron have a rare moment together and Joey asks him why he calls her ‘dove'. His response is ‘because you bring my soul peace’ and my heart melts as he is opening up to her; even at a time when he should be feeling vulnerable.


I wasn't able to put this book down and the suspense was great as secrets were unravelled and battles fought. I can't wait to read book 2 to see what life has in store for Joey next because I get the feeling it hasn't finished with her yet.

[Jenni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lineage is the first book I have read by J.N. Sheats and I was certainly not disappointed. The story and the characters were very well written and you especially feel for the main character Joey and all she has to go through. She is your typical teenage girl who loves her friends, because really that’s all the family she has since her mother is easily and most certainly not your normal mother figure. Unfortunately Joey’s feelings for her friends may just be her downfall. Will Joey be able to fight against the evil that is threatening all?

The storyline is intense but JN is easily able to write in a way that draws you into the journey every step of the way with characters. Each characters had their own story to tell that pulled the story together really well. The story had you feeling so many different emotions, ups and downs, highs and lows with so many twists and turns that keeps you guessing till the very end. There is lots of danger, suspense, action, mystery, paranormal occurrences and just a little romance. I enjoyed the story to the point I had to read it all in one sitting. JN was very good at setting a visual of not only the town and it’s history but also that of the families connections and how this all fits in with each of the characters.

As much as I enjoyed the book there were a few times that I became frustrated with Joey when she would not listen to others that were trying to keep her safe. As with any typical teenager her impulsive attitude left her in many a precarious situations and I just wanted to strangle her.

This book is a paranormal story for young adults and one that older readers will enjoy too. If you enjoy things like Supernatural you will definitely not be disappointed with what JN has written. I can not wait to read the next book and see where things go. I am sure JN will weave a story just as good as this one.

[Bethany Mcvay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lineage by J.N. Sheats is a YA/paranormal book that I loved and can't wait to read again. I'll try to keep my gushing to a minimum, if only to keep spoiler free.

Ok, first off this was beautifully written. Seriously, the way Sheats described things was amazing. It was able to capture the mood and left me sitting on the edge of my seat the entire time. Seriously, just brilliant.

And the characters were so well written, especially Joey our main character. I loved reading about her, learning about why she's the way she is and why she reacts in certain ways. And the mother, how can I put this, I liked her character but if I even met her in real life, I'd want to smack her upside the head. There are very few characters that can make me feel that way, or react like that, which I feel just shows how well the characters are written.

The plot was, again, amazing. It takes an old story and puts a new spin on it, which is a risky move. But it worked, Sheats was able to breathe new life in this story. I really do not want to give anything away, so I won't give any details. I'll just say that it has a lot going for it. Some mystery, action, a little romance of course, just it has a little bit of everything. I started this book thinking I'll read a couple chapters before bed and then finish it later. I ended up staying up all night finishing it, I couldn't put it down. Before I realized it, my alarm was going off and I had to start getting ready for work. Completely worth it though, in my opinion.

I would give this 5 out of 5 stars, and I absolutely can not wait for the next book to come out!!

[Anastasia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lineage (J.J. Morris book 1)
By J.N. Sheats
5 stars!!!!

This is by first book by J.N. Sheats, and I was pleasantly surprised!! This story was extremely well written, and the characters were pretty darn awesome too! This story follows Joey Morris who lives is a small town of Portstown, Pennsylvania. (This the part where I am going to mention Joey’s POS mother. She was just awful!! The author did an awesome job with her character but I still didn’t like her!!) Joey has had a tough life, because she moved around a lot. But when she gets settled into this new town she soon finds her current place in life and starts to actually have fun and enjoy herself. Everything is going good until Joey comes across a terrifying dog and shortly afterwards people start showing up dead from animal attacks. And in comes Cameron! This Mysterious Man, seems to show up every time joey is in trouble!! But when things take unexpected turns will he continue to help her when she is need or will she be left unprotected and fall into the clutched of the beast? Go get this book so you can see where Joey’s journey ends!
I gave this book five stars! It kept me interested the whole time I was reading it, and just when I thought something was headed in a certain direction the author threw in another curve ball and it kept me intrigued and reading until the very last page! My one and only objection is that the book ends with a cliff hanger and I loathe them usually but this story had me interested enough that when I get the chance to read more of the series I will. I would recommend this to anyone that likes young adult// paranormal fiction.

Review by Anastasia D.

[Kandis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lineage (JJ Morris #1)
By J.N. Sheats
**5 Stars**

Lineage by J.N. Sheats is the first book in the JJ Morris series. This book is from the point of view of Joey Morris. Sheats did an amazing job of writing her characters! They are realistic and relatable. Joey tends to react to situations the same way I would, half the time she's freaking out and the other half she's facing her fears. Sometimes I get so tired of heroines who can handle everything without cracking. It is impossible to have that much grace under pressure!

Joey knows that she is not normal. She was young when her father died and since then she's lived all over the country. Her mom has moved her and her brother around so many times. Her mom takes her little brother and goes on business trips most of the time and they're never home. Now she has found her tribe in this historic college town. It has the best of both worlds, it has the luxuries of the city with the charm of the small town. She has an amazing group of friends and a super cute boyfriend! That is until she was walking home from a football game and her world changed forever. Will Joey be able to make it through all the trials that she is facing?

I love the scare factor in this book! It's not your everyday monster, which is a plus. I get so tired of reading supernatural books with the same ole, same ole. Also I love the fairytale reference which I won't spoil for you! But it's fun! Sheats gives you a warning before you get to the "I can't put this book down" point. She tells you to go to bed or grab a snack! LOL who needs sleep? I couldn't put this book down and I can't wait to read the rest of the series!

[Carissa Anelli · Rating 4 out of 5]

Joey had it all the jock boyfriend, the popular crowd, and a small town where her family is part of the original founding families. Portstown PA was a quiet little town where everyone knows each other and they are always at the friday night games. It was after one of those games that while walking home in the dark alone she had her first encounter with the creature and the stranger with the blue topaz eyes. The next morning her academic rival Katie was dead. The royals met for their typical saturday brunch when they realize they have all gained something in her death, and Joey now feels like the top of the class spot has been tainted. Slowly but surely the royals were being picked off one by one in gruesome ways, and no matter how many people died the town folk just went on with their lives. It makes Joey wonder how long she has left.

Cameron the blue eyed adonis has been charged with protecting Joey. Though he isn’t quite what he appears to be from the outside. He clashes with Joey’s friends almost every time they are around you could use a knife to cut the tension between them. He will do anything though to protect her even as much as almost dying on multiple occasions.

This book was surprisingly good. I loved the story line once it picked up and started moving. I felt that the beginning of the book was information overload and it did slow the story down. It definitely makes me want to read the rest of the series to see what happens next.

[The Endless Unread · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lineage by J N Sheats is the first book in J J Morris Series and for me is a five star read.

Wow! This is definitely a five star read for me. What a wild ride. It had me gripped from the very first page and I did not want to put it down

This book can be enjoyed time and time again. It is amazingly intense and the author prepares you for the journey for you to take alongside the characters really well. The characters and story development were perfectly done. This book was extremley well written and has fast become of my favourite books. I will definitely want to one click future releases from this author. This book was full of different emotions with many twists and turns in the book that will keep you guessing what is going to happen till the very end.I have the feeling that I am going to be seeing some special works coming from this author.

I could not wait to get to the end so I devoured it in one sitting. Incredible work!!

The storyline was done really well and was believable. It kept me gripped from the very start until the end, so much so I took the book everywhere with me in order to finish it. I adore this book and cannot wait to read the next in the series as well as other work from this amazing author. I will definitely be recommending this author to everyone I know.

[Melinda G · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first read from J.N. Sheats who left me wanting more. Do you like young adult, mystery, romance and surprises? If you answered yes to these questions pick up Lineage and give it a read.

This story is about Joey and moving around constantly with her mother all of her young life. When they finally settle into Pennsylvania Joey discovers that her family has deep roots there; because of this Joey becomes a popular girl in school. Joey is saved by a stranger but when the stranger turns around and threatens her life she is unsure of what is going on. Joey has a strange encounter with a dog and after that strange encounter the people in her town are now dying from dog attacks.

Cameron, the new mysterious guy that is not only new to this town but also just happens to show up every time that Joey is in trouble. He gives Joey cryptic messages that she needs to keep herself safe. However he never gives her a direct reason as to why she needs to keep herself safe. What Joey does not know himself is why Joey is the one in the middle of all the danger, does it all revolve around her? Cameron does not know but he has to find the answers.

Twists and turns are in your future when you begin this read as well as a cliffhanger. Be prepared to become engrossed.

[Tania Fitzgerald · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great story about a young woman named Joey Morris who has been drifting from town to town with her Mom, finally settling in a town she finds out is where her family originally descended.
After being saved by a handsome stranger, he then threatens her life. Things start going from bad to worse, death seems to be stalking her and killing others around her.
Cameron Davis, the handsome stranger is bound and determined to keep her alive.
This is an exciting read no matter what age. The story twists and turns leaving you dying to read the next book

[Bobbi Wagner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lineage (JJ Morris Book 1) by JN Sheats is a Young Adult supernatural story. This story has a little bit of everything in it including suspense, mystery and even some romance. You will fully enjoy how this author has written a story with great detail of what is happening. She makes you feel that you are right there with the characters. You will also enjoy how this story will pull you into this story from the first chapter and keep you engaged throughout the story. This story has many twists and turns that will leave you sitting on the edge of your seat just waiting to see what will happen next. These characters will take you on various journeys that you won't be able to see what is coming. Find out what happens to these characters as they take you on a journey that will leave your heart pumping.

Joey Morris is a young girl that has moved around from city to city quite a bit. Her mother has been absent from her life only appearing once in a while. She learned at an early age that she has to take care of herself. What will happen when she finds out that her family has long reaching roots to this town that goes back to the first settlement? Because of that heritage she has been accepted into a group that has now made her part of the popular group. Then one terrifying night, things change for her. What will happen to her when a handsome stranger saves her from a violent black dog only to put a gun to her chest moments later? Now there are people dropping dead around her. Will there be anyone left after she finds out the truth about herself? How much danger is she in?

Cameron Davis is a man who is from another life but has been focused on one mission. His drive has been keeping his soul locked inside his physical body but yet starving off the reaper. Will this all change when he meets her? What will happen when he is given the task to keep her safe and to stop the attacks? She has made him week and has made him have memories of a past he has left behind long ago. What secrets lie behind the Warner family and what does that have to do with her? Why does she need protecting?

The characters in this story are amazingly connected and each one really makes the story flow. In my opinion one character isn't as strong or weak as the other, they are all equal. Each one has something do with finding the mysteries behind Joey. If I had to name on character that stood out the most I think it would be Cameron. He is kind of a mystery by himself. You can see hints of his past and why he is protect over Joey but I don't know that we really see who he is. I think there is more to him then we see. I will also say that Joey does seem to grow into herself throughout the story and has a determination that beats all. I enjoyed all the characters in this story and can't wait to see more of them in the next story.

This is my first story by JN Sheats and I know that it won't be my last. I enjoyed her details and information that she created for each of these characters and story plot. JN lives in Maryland with her husband, six cats, a dog and a tank full of fish. She spends her time working on her Masters in Illustration and working on the backlog of housework. She lives her life under the ideas that “if you don't know how to do something, go learn it”. You will fully enjoy how she has created a fast paced page turner that will keep you reading until the end. You will not be able to put this book down just waiting to see what is behind the next page. I highly recommend this story as I know you will enjoy seeing what happens on Joey and the other characters journey to find the mystery behind the attacks.

[Nikki · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lineage (J J Morris book 1) by JN Sheats is a thrilling 5 star read.
Joey Morris is finally feeling like she belongs somewhere, ever since her father died her mother has moved them around from town to town never staying anywhere longer than a few months so when they came to Portstown to live in a house that had been in her mother's family for generations,Joey never expected to be here long but after 18 months she’s still in the same place with friends who are like family to her, they are there for her when her mother disappears for weeks at a time with her younger brother, Joey knows her mother hates her but she doesn't know the reason why. While she's walking home from a school football game, angry that her boyfriend has let her down, she comes across a large black dog with glowing red eyes and Cameron who saves her only to later threaten her with a gun, high on adrenaline she makes it home, he tells her that she needs to be in her house before dark to stay safe, but she goes out with her friends anyway only to encounter the dogs again, soon more people in her town are dying from the dog attacks and Joey is starting to feel guilty. Cameron is really mysterious he seems to show up when Joey is in danger to help her but his mood swings really annoy her, soon they end up working together with some friends of his to figure out what is going on in her town. As her friends die one by one Joey does everything she can to keep them safe.
I wasn't sure about this book to start with but I found I couldn't put it down, I kept telling myself one more chapter and I’ll go to sleep but before I knew it the clock said 4am and I was still reading, this author pulls you into the story and you get invested in the characters, I'm really glad there's more to come, I can't wait to find out what comes next for Joey and Cameron.

[Ashling · Rating 2 out of 5]

*I received a review copy of this book in return for an honest review.*

This book was pretty entertaining, but everything could have been executed better.

-Characters: There were some characters I enjoyed, but they were all side characters and not that fleshed out. I found myself a bit perplexed by the main character's personality and actions, as well as the personality and actions of the love interest. (I have to say that Cameron came off a bit creepy, controlling, and manipulative. think it would have been better if the love interest was someone Joey's age. It would have been even better if there wasn't a love interest at all.)

-Plot: The idea for this book was a good one, but as I said above, it could have been executed better. There was a lot of repetition in the first 80% of the book, and then a lot of events were pushed in at the last 20%. Everything important happened too fast and was underwhelming.

-World: I feel like this was a pretty basic world/setting for this type of book. Nothing to write home about.

-Pacing/writing: I felt like the writing and pace of the book were stilted. Sometimes things would hold my interest, and sometimes not. Sometimes what the characters were doing made sense, sometimes not. Sometimes the pace was going well, and sometimes not.

In the end, I think this book would be better if more editing was done. Some adding of things that would make the book more enriching, and some subtraction of things that aren't needed.

[Roseanna · Rating 3 out of 5]

“Cameron, why do you call me dove," I asked, ready for disappointment. "Because, you bring my soul peace." Joey Morris has spent her young life moving around the country with her constantly absent mother until finally ending up in the small college town of Portstown, Pennsylvania. Here history is thick in the air and Joey discovers that her family has long reaching roots in the town, dating back to the very first settlement. Because of her heritage she is welcomed into the group of the other founding families, and quickly becomes one of the popular girls in school. After over a year of the good life and Homecoming just days away, Joey is thrown into a terrifying new reality. Happening across a violent black dog with glowing red eyes, and a handsome stranger that puts his life on the line to save her only to stick a gun in her chest moments later. Now people are dying in Portstown, people close to Joey and she doesn't understand why. Will Joey have anyone left after she discovers the truth about her past? Cameron Davis is a man from another life, for years he has been focused on his mission. The drive that keeps his soul locked inside a physical body, staving off the reaper. That all changes when he is given the task of protecting Joey and stopping the attacks. This girl makes him weak and brings up memories of a past he left behind nearly a century ago. What secrets lie beyond his contract with the elusive Warner family, and why does this girl need protecting? Lineage is a young adult novel but is recommended for readers 16+ due to violence.

This one for me was very slow reading up until the last third of the book. The flow was long and overtly drawn out, to the point I almost said meh, not for me. The last bit did pick up and flowed well. It was not forced as the first two thirds. I was disappointed in the lack of chemistry between Joey and Cam. It fell flat for me, so much so I was really rooting for Carl therein the end. Who knows maybe with the next book. It was so cliche, girl coming into the supernatural world, girl fumbles around trying to deal and cry, meets mysterious strangers that are cryptic and silent. Ugh, been there done that. So many missed opportunities for something fresh.
What I did like is the twists, and deadly turns that navigate the plot the last half. Whew, I was on the edge of my seat. And who the gatekeeper was, floored. Didn't see that one coming. If the entire book was as riveting as the last bit, it would be easily 5 stars. The flow was smooth, the action was high, detailed without being info dump. I was very glad I kept on reading. I liked the freshness of spin on the supernatural creatures included in the book, but would have loved more details on a few. Maybe those will pan out in other novels. Clearly there are more books coming in the story, as something was addressed but there was room for more development and story lines. Not a cliffhanger, just a possibility for more, which is how I like books to end, so points for that. So many authors leave huge gaps and holes and steep cliffhangers it's terrible. I am very glad this is not the case. This is the first I have read of J.N. Sheats, and plan on being on the lookout for book two. More Carl!

[Laura Furuta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lineage (J.J. Morris Book 1)
By: J.N. Sheats
5 out of 5 stars

The story Lineage (J.J. Morris Book 1) by J.N. Sheats is a thrilling YA/supernatural book. This is an amazing story that will have you quickly turning pages to find out what happens next. It has action, mystery, danger, and even a bit of romance. This combination is what I call an awesome read. This is the story of Joey Morris. Her life is filled with constant moving by her mother. A mother who also is frequently absent from her daughter’s life. She is now living in Portstown, Pennsylvania and has been for some time. Her life has been happy here as she has been welcomed by others as a member of one of the founding families of the town. Joey is independent and has learned to live on her own. She feels guilt because of past events in her life and comes to realize that her mother has come to resent her. This is a lot for a teenager to handle and I like that Joey has learned to survive. Then one night danger comes to Portstown. There are events unfolding that will test Joey’s courage and her understanding of both herself and the town around her. How will Joey react to this new danger? Then Joey meets Cameron Davis. He shows up when Joey needs his help most. Joey then becomes determined to find out who Cameron is and why he seems to be drawn to her. Why does Joey feel a deep connection with Cameron every time he shows up?

Cameron Davis is quite a mystery. He is new in town and shows up every time Joey is in danger. He constantly warns Joey that she need to keep herself safe, however, doesn’t give her a clear reason why. He is moody and frequently lashes out at Joey when she doesn’t heed his warnings. He is not sure as to why Joey seems to be at the center of the danger that is enveloping the town, however, he is determined to find out. Cameron also feels a strong pull towards Joey. There are hints of his past and why he is so protective of Joey. Cameron is a fighter and takes everything head on. Will he be able to keep Joey safe? Will he find out the reason behind the strange and disturbing occurrences that are happening in this town?

This book has many amazing characters. They all have their part to play in the story and not all of them are there to help Joey. This is the first book I have read by the author and I love the attention to detail that has been given in this story. The background information on the characters and the town is wonderful and is very helpful in understanding the reason for the things that are happening. I love books that include the paranormal and I can’t wait to read the next book in this series. Read this book to find out the secrets behind the town of Portstown and how Joey fits into the picture. This book is a YA novel and is recommended for readers 16 years of age and older due to violence.

[Ari Ovalle · Rating 5 out of 5]

*The Author asked me if I would be so kind as to review this book and I accepted.*

Lineage is one of those books where you start reading and you don't stop until you're at 100%, and then you're left wanting so much more!! What was really neat were the intermissions. The Author warns you to proceed at your own risk and you do anyway because you have to know what happens and who's behind it all. So, let's tell you a little of what this story entails. Joey, our main-female-character, has moved from place to place, finally settling down in her hometown(or from where her descendants hail from.) Her mom is nowhere to be found, apparently, she's off on business. Joey is by herself. Some weird things are happening in the town and as the book starts off, you're introduced to those weird things but not quite knowing exactly what they are. This Author is a complete master at showing you, just not telling you what's happening. That's why you're going to be on the edge of your seat wondering who, what, when, where(Well not really where, you know where.), and why. So, weird stuff is happening and a gorgeous blue-eyed stranger helps her out. He's also a bit frustrating with his fine looking self. He's very much the brooding type, but hey, aren't all gorgeous alpha males like that? I, personally, loved her friend, Carl. Not in the romantic way, but he's such a good friend. You need a friend sometimes. And to let you in on a secret, the gorgeous blue-eyed stranger is much more than he appears to be, he's also with a group of Paranormal Investigators, or at least that's what I think of them as. They're there to stop the weird stuff. Turns out Joey has a lot more buried in her blood than she thinks and the question is, can she figure out who's after her before their next move on her? I will tell you that this book has a bit of a cliffhanger. It's not in the way you're thinking, it's more of a who is this person-type of cliffhanger, mixed in with who are these people-type of cliffhanger. I definitely need more. My new year of reading has definitely started off right with this book and I am so very thankful, because I want you, the reader to know that this book is so worth the read!!

[Carrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lineage by J.N. Sheats is awesome! I prefer romance but also love a good paranormal story. There is murder and betrayal but also some sweet moments.



Joey is in high school and has moved so many times she has lost count. Her family finally ends up in Portstown. Here they live in her mother’s childhood home, but her mom is gone most of the time, away for work. She has settled in nicely and has a great group of friends and a boyfriend David. One night some strange happenings start to occur. Joey sees red eyes in the dark and they look like large dogs that are ready to attack her. This is when she meets Cameron. Cameron saves her from the dogs, but there is more to him than meets the eye. After, meeting Cameron, Joey starts to see people around her are dying off, not just any people, but her school mates, and some friends.



Cameron is a paranormal being from another time, he has been around for awhile and is now tasked to stop these dogs from attacking and killing people while also protecting Joey. He wants to complete his mission and move on but, for some reason Joey draws him in, he has visions of the past and can’t stay away from her.



Joey later learns, with help from Cameron and the other man he works with, Bingo, that she is from a long line of magic. This old magic is made up of seven families, which just so happen to be her best friends, and one by one they are dying. She believes that her boyfriend David is behind the murders but, later finds out that the one person in control is the last person she would expect.
Will Joey survive or be the next target? 



This book is really great! The storyline is fantastic and I was completely sucked in. I love stories about magic and witches so this was spot on. The characters were well written out and I enjoyed watching how each character was involved with the plot and the secrets they held. There is definitely some chemistry between Joey and Cameron and I can’t wait to read the second installment to see what their future holds together. I would definitely give this book 5 stars and would recommend to young adults and adults alike.


[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Linage J.J. Morris #1
J.N. Sheats
5 Stars

“Hell was descending upon Portstown. People were dying…being murdered. Some right before my eyes, their blood still staining my skin. How did this become my normalcy? How had violent acts of nature become my everyday life, and why? Because those animals wanted me-people were dying because I was being hunted.”
Josephine or Joey as her friends call her, loves living in Portstown. After Joey’s father died, her mother has moved her and her little brother so many times. When they move to Portstown Joey feels like she is home, but Joey is still lonely in her new home. Joey’s mother travels for work and she take Joey’s brother with her and leaves Joey home alone a lot. The first day of her new school, Marty welcomes her and they become inseparable. Marty introduces Joey to her other friends. As Joey gets to know them all she finds that, their ancestors are all originally from Portstown. After the football game when Joeys boyfriend David blows her off; and she is walking home, a big looking dog with red eyes is about to shred her apart. As she waits for the dog to attack, a stranger comes to her rescue. He gets her home and Joey tries to get answers from him, but he is tight lipped. As classmates start getting, killed Joey blames herself. Can Joey save the town and people she loves?

I gave this book five stars. It has great cliffhangers that keep you reading until the very end. This is a young adult fiction paranormal genre. Joy’s life has alot of loneness and she feels she has adapted well. When she moves to a new town and meets a guy that means a lot to her she realizes she has only adapted and not grown. I loved the author’s intermission. The author leaves you on a cliff and the suggests food or sleep. I thought this was great, funny and unique. I cannot wait to read the rest of this series.

[Samantha Rae · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lineage (J.J. Morris Book #1)
By J. N. Sheats
4 Star Review

Lineage by J.N. Sheats is the first book in a new series and is a four star read. This book’s intended audience is young adult, but I found it a very quick moving story with a lot happening.
There is a lot of mystery, action, danger and paranormal beings to go right along with this well written story.

Joey Morris, is the heroine in this story, she has not had the best childhood. Joey’s mother is absent quite a lot in her life and had them constantly moving from place to place. Finally settling in her mom’s small town in Pennsylvania, she is feels at home in this town and becoming very comfortable with the community. Then strange events start unfolding and supernatural things occur, of course Joey doesn’t want to believe in these strange occurrences.

Cameron Davis, new in town, strangely drawn to Joey Morris; he is constantly warning her about the danger in town. People are dying and there are strange attacks by a dog that has glowing red eyes. Cameron has one job and it’s to protect Joey, he is very moody and angry, but when he is near Joey he finds solace and peace for his soul.

The situation in town is escalating, the danger is growing and dark forces are at play. People that Joey cares about are becoming victims and for her this is something out of a horror movie. Will Joey figure out what is happening in the town? Will Cameron help her or is he part of the darkness taking over the town.

I enjoyed this book; it kept me interested and moved quickly. The characters are fully developed and interesting to read about. I cannot wait to read the next book.

[Stefanie Carney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lineage by J.N. Sheats is a new take on a world that I love so much. It is a new spin on the paranormal world, one I think will be well liked by those who are brave enough to dive in. There were times that I was afraid to turn my light out for fear of the unknown outside my window. It made me afraid of all things that go bump in the night, but not in the thriller mass murderer, the way that gets you wondering if that dog is really a dog or a shifter that wants to eat me. I found that to be exhilarating and it made me think a bit more than I thought I would while reading this story. As with every “teen” story the major theme I saw in this story is discovering who you are as a person, but it was done in a different way than normal and I found that refreshing. By making JJ a fiercely independent girl we see the inner strength and how it helps us in all aspects of what can be a treacherous life. If flows through her friendships and it helps her decide who to trust and who is really the enemy.
This was a four-star book for me because I wanted more. This has everything you could want in a book like this, fast paced action that keeps you guessing while there is certainly a romantic thread throughout, a will they or wont they kind of thing that was a much-needed break in the drama that surrounds JJ. I would recommend that you give this book a chance, you may be surprised at how fast you get sucked in.

[Emma Morreale · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lineage by J.N. Sheats is the first book in the JJ Morris mystery series. Right from the start you are thrown into action and danger. Our helpless heroine, Joey, is determined not to remain ignorant of what is happening around her and it gets her into a few sticky situations. A difficult home life means friends are closer than family and Joey is willing to do whatever it takes to keep the people she loves safe.
I thoroughly enjoyed how this book was written.
The main character is seventeen so we see everything through the lens of a high school student trying to make sense of her rapidly changing view of the world. The dialogue reflected this in sometimes hilarious ways. My favorite part involves Joey processing being alone in a car with a breeze whistling through a small gap in the window and thinking “God, what is this, a horror movie?” I love the realism it brings to the character.
There were also two intermissions in the book at key parts that I enjoyed. I really should have heeded the warning of the first one since I was reading at 3AM and my imagination tends to get the best of me when I read anything remotely scary.
This book was fantastic! There were so many twists and turns that I could hardly keep up and I was not prepared for how involved I would get with this book. I was blown away by the ending that I never saw coming and I can’t wait to see what happens next. This is definitely a case of needing the second book as soon as possible.

[Amelia Carr · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lineage is about a girl called Joey. Late one night she is almost attacked by a red eyed black dog. A handsome stranger rescues her. He is also frightening and threatens her life if she involves any police in the event. Things continue to get strange and terrifying as Joey's world becomes dark and unreal.

I love how atmospheric this book is! The description of the places and surroundings create as much anticipation and terror as the creatures and events in the story. I could not put it down as I was gripped and the book got me so involved and I had to know what came next no matter how intense it got. The characters are really good and real. I found myself fighting and crying and worrying for with them every step of the way. The story is interesting and very surprising as it is not a predictable tale and has various twists and turns to keep you guessing. There is plenty of action and drama to get your pulse racing as well as plotlines to get you thinking and suspecting different characters of being behind the awful events that besiege the quiet town they live in.

My favourite part was when I got to the end and discovered that there will be another book and that there is a lot more to this story! I cannot wait to read it and other books by this author and be plunged into any other world they may create. This is a must read for any paranormal novel fan.

[Jean Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Five dynomite stars for the beginning of a dynamite series from J. N. Sheets! Lineage is fantastic!!!
I can not wait for the next book in the series! Cameron and J. J. alias Joey are terrific together. This book is well written with a never ending, heart pounding,adrenaline flowing plot and a storyline that moves seamlessly from one chapter to another, this book is amazing.
Joey doesn’t believe in ghosts, ghouls, or things that go bump in the night. She believes in hard work, studying, and getting into college. Oh yes, she also believes in her friends. Especially her best friend, Marty.
Cameron does believe in things that go bump in the night. Not only does he believe in them, he battles them. He and his friends have come to the sleepy little town of Portstown to deal with a problem.
The quiet, small town has been a haven of normalcy and Joey revels in the sense of finally coming home. But all is not well in Portstown. Joey and Cameron are left to unravel not only the very real dangers that lurk in Portstown, but the beginnings of something else very real that may be growing between them. Or not.
This book is an amazing read that held me spellbound until the very last page. I can't wait for the next book in the series. Yea! Go J. N. Sheats.

[Carol Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is one you absolutely can't put down , even with the authors warnings , until its all done . Joey Morris has been moved from pillar to post all her life until her dad died , then her mum decides to settle in Portstown in an old house that has been in the family for generations . For the first time Joey feels like she belongs , until the deaths start & it all seems to lead back to her . Attacked by a savage red eyed dog she is saved by the strange Cameron Davis , who veers between Joeys protector & someone who wants to strangle her for not listening . With the body count growing nightly Joey , Cameron , Bingo & Sonnie try to put all the clues together to see who is wiping out members of the founding families one by one , plenty of twists & looking back the clues are there to who the culprit is ,can't wait for the next in this series , loved it .

[Lori Hammons · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lineage is the story of Joey at the first place she's lived for any length of time, a whole year and a half. She has finally allowed herself to make friends and is enjoying high school when she is nearly attacked and then saved. Again and again. It all gets very intense and frightening. The twists at the end of the story surprised me, and I can't wait for book 2!