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The Gift
International Book Awards 2017 Award Winning Finalist Fiction: Romance
My name is Gemma Harding...and I help to transition the dead.
Gemma is a clairvoyant. Since she was a child she's seen the dead and helped cross the souls of those who have departed into the light. Her life is complicated but consistent, as normal as someone like her could ever have. She embraces her calling, determined to help those who cannot help themselves.
When Gemma becomes involved in the case of a young girl's disappearance, she is plunged into the path of a series of gruesome murders and thrust at the forefront of a desperate search for a serial killer. Gemma must use all of her wits to defeat him and help solve the case before she becomes a victim herself. As more girls turn up missing, the fight to stop the killer becomes more deadly at every turn.
Will Gemma be able to help her lost soul and defeat an evil so unimaginable that her very life is on the line?
Book #2, The Forsaken, coming Halloween 2017.
My name is Gemma Harding...and I help to transition the dead.
Gemma is a clairvoyant. Since she was a child she's seen the dead and helped cross the souls of those who have departed into the light. Her life is complicated but consistent, as normal as someone like her could ever have. She embraces her calling, determined to help those who cannot help themselves.
When Gemma becomes involved in the case of a young girl's disappearance, she is plunged into the path of a series of gruesome murders and thrust at the forefront of a desperate search for a serial killer. Gemma must use all of her wits to defeat him and help solve the case before she becomes a victim herself. As more girls turn up missing, the fight to stop the killer becomes more deadly at every turn.
Will Gemma be able to help her lost soul and defeat an evil so unimaginable that her very life is on the line?
Book #2, The Forsaken, coming Halloween 2017.
- GenresFictionParanormal
190 pages, ebook
First published October 28, 2016
21 people are currently reading
519 people want to read
About the author
Nikki Landis
139 books2,106 followersNikki Landis is a romance enthusiast, tea addict, and book hoarder. She's the USA Today Bestselling Author of over seventy novels, including her widely popular Tonopah, NV GBMC series. She writes wickedly fierce, spicy romances featuring dirty talkin' bikers, deadly, possessive reapers, wild bad boys, and the feisty, independent women they love. Nikki loves to write character-driven, emotionally raw stories where protective, morally gray anti-heroes fall hard for their ride-or-die.
She's a mom to six sons, two of whom are Marines. Books are her favorite escape.
To learn about Nikki's next release, check out her website: https://nikkilandisbooks.com/
She's a mom to six sons, two of whom are Marines. Books are her favorite escape.
To learn about Nikki's next release, check out her website: https://nikkilandisbooks.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 131 reviews
July 7, 2017
This book lingered on my TBR for far too long. This was one of those reads that I only had time for like one chapter a day (once a week or so), but I kept plugging along, praying for a quiet corner where no one will bother me because the mystery was dragging me in. And then all of a sudden, I'm lying in bed and not even sleepy so why not, right?
Heaven: when the whole world disappears as you become one with the story. And this story had depth and mystery and enough twists to keep me guessing.
Book Nerd problem: when you finally fall asleep but dream about the book you just read. It's all fine and dandy if it stars a sexy hero, but when it's about a serial killing pervert...not so great :(
Looking forward to the next book.
Heaven: when the whole world disappears as you become one with the story. And this story had depth and mystery and enough twists to keep me guessing.
Book Nerd problem: when you finally fall asleep but dream about the book you just read. It's all fine and dandy if it stars a sexy hero, but when it's about a serial killing pervert...not so great :(
Looking forward to the next book.
June 16, 2017
The Gift was incredibly enjoyable! It has lots of excellent elements – it's a paranormal novel, a murder mystery/thriller and a romance.
Gemma has a gift. She sees souls and helps them crossover to where they are supposed to be, ie, not wandering the earth. When she sees the soul of a recently murdered girl (who at this stage is just “missing”), and more girls go missing, Gemma knows there’s a serial murderer on the loose. What she does not count on when she gets involved in the investigation is that she’s painted a bullseye on her own head. Can she help catch the killer without ending up as one of his victims?
What I liked most about Gemma was her outlook on life… and death. Gemma had a lot of beautiful thoughts and perspectives that I really enjoyed. In that sense, even though this was a paranormal thriller, it was also a feel-good book.
The writing here was smooth and seamless and I found myself reading long after I should have put the book down to do that something else I was supposed to be doing (like fixing dinner).
Very enjoyable and I would definitely read more by Nikki Landis!
Gemma has a gift. She sees souls and helps them crossover to where they are supposed to be, ie, not wandering the earth. When she sees the soul of a recently murdered girl (who at this stage is just “missing”), and more girls go missing, Gemma knows there’s a serial murderer on the loose. What she does not count on when she gets involved in the investigation is that she’s painted a bullseye on her own head. Can she help catch the killer without ending up as one of his victims?
What I liked most about Gemma was her outlook on life… and death. Gemma had a lot of beautiful thoughts and perspectives that I really enjoyed. In that sense, even though this was a paranormal thriller, it was also a feel-good book.
The writing here was smooth and seamless and I found myself reading long after I should have put the book down to do that something else I was supposed to be doing (like fixing dinner).
Very enjoyable and I would definitely read more by Nikki Landis!
April 21, 2017
“The Gift” is a paranormal thriller telling a story of a young woman, Gemma, who helps lost souls to cross over to the world where they will find their peace. Gemma’s whole world gets turned upside down when one night she encounters the soul of a young girl Katie, who has been brutally murdered. Only, soon it becomes clear that Katie’s murder was only the beginning as more and more girls start disappearing, and Gemma finds herself caught up not only in the dangerous investigation, but also in a relationship with the leading detective who has his own secrets…
I very much enjoyed the thriller aspect and trying to figure out who the murderer was. The plot moved at a nice pace and there was never a dull moment. Relatable protagonist, men who aren’t always what they seem, an explosive culmination and of course a paranormal aspect make “The Gift” a truly riveting read. It is well-written, dark, sinister at times, but offers very much needed closure in the end. Five stars.
I very much enjoyed the thriller aspect and trying to figure out who the murderer was. The plot moved at a nice pace and there was never a dull moment. Relatable protagonist, men who aren’t always what they seem, an explosive culmination and of course a paranormal aspect make “The Gift” a truly riveting read. It is well-written, dark, sinister at times, but offers very much needed closure in the end. Five stars.
September 14, 2018
Gemma has a unique gift, she helps souls. When a soul of a young girl that was murdered shows up in her room, that leads her on a wild chase. She meets Victor, the lead person on the case and they have a whirlwind romance. Just when she finally was getting comfortable, Ryan enters her life and throws everything for a loop. Victor was hiding some dark secrets that led her to the murderer. She got closure for the victims and their families. Now she has to see where this goes with Ryan.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 13, 2017
‘The Gift’ by Nikki Landis is wondrous piece of writing. I finished this book in one sitting with very few reservations, an easy and quick read. This book does not contain cliffhangers and I was satisfied with the ending. It can function as a standalone novel if you so choose, but I can admit that I’ll be waiting for ‘A Transitions Novel #2.’ Highly recommended.
Gemma Harding is a 29-year-old clairvoyant and although it’s a lot to take in, the first chapter, written unlike the others, explains the parameters of the gift. I had some reservations in the first chapter as we rounded every corner about souls transitioning and what being clairvoyant actually entails. This first chapter is not lengthy by any means, but I was concerned with the writing style of a droning mind. Instead, it provided expectations without having to learn, in pieces, what the guidelines of this ability are. The reader also receives the working conclusions Gemma has drawn about life and love in the process. It sets up some solid character development and then sends you on your way into a speedy novel that no longer needs to pause for logistical reason.
Gemma is an exceedingly bright young woman and she holds a level of professionalism, wit, and class that carries throughout the book. She is often described as innocent and sweet, and to clarify that it is due to her pure heart and dedication to the clairvoyant cause (helping the dead and grieving). She is not naïve. Holding her own as an independent woman, I really admired this character, an Ohio girl myself.
She continues on this whirlwind of a journey that she has faced countless times before – find the killer and give the dead closure. Except this time there is a man involved. Victor Silverman is cocky dreamboat that you root for especially since Gemma holds reservations about love. Personally, their relationship moved too fast for me, but trust me when I say nothing is spoiled by this. There is far more plot development surrounding this. Besides the opening chapter, this was my only other reservation. For such an independent woman she falls for him, fast.
Without spoiling anything, I was capable of identifying one of the main twists, but not them all. Even though I figured out a portion of the plot (something I pride myself on being good at, mind you) I continued to enjoy it thoroughly because of the hope of justice and the pursuit of Gemma’s happiness. I kept guessing and second-guessing myself. This book was so well paced that I didn’t skip a single word – I could miss something detrimental!
If you’re interested in this novel do not form any judgments until after chapter two and enjoy this thrilling journey as Gemma, and the ever-perfect Victor hunt a killer who may be hunting them.
*I received this book free in exchange for an honest review*
Gemma Harding is a 29-year-old clairvoyant and although it’s a lot to take in, the first chapter, written unlike the others, explains the parameters of the gift. I had some reservations in the first chapter as we rounded every corner about souls transitioning and what being clairvoyant actually entails. This first chapter is not lengthy by any means, but I was concerned with the writing style of a droning mind. Instead, it provided expectations without having to learn, in pieces, what the guidelines of this ability are. The reader also receives the working conclusions Gemma has drawn about life and love in the process. It sets up some solid character development and then sends you on your way into a speedy novel that no longer needs to pause for logistical reason.
Gemma is an exceedingly bright young woman and she holds a level of professionalism, wit, and class that carries throughout the book. She is often described as innocent and sweet, and to clarify that it is due to her pure heart and dedication to the clairvoyant cause (helping the dead and grieving). She is not naïve. Holding her own as an independent woman, I really admired this character, an Ohio girl myself.
She continues on this whirlwind of a journey that she has faced countless times before – find the killer and give the dead closure. Except this time there is a man involved. Victor Silverman is cocky dreamboat that you root for especially since Gemma holds reservations about love. Personally, their relationship moved too fast for me, but trust me when I say nothing is spoiled by this. There is far more plot development surrounding this. Besides the opening chapter, this was my only other reservation. For such an independent woman she falls for him, fast.
Without spoiling anything, I was capable of identifying one of the main twists, but not them all. Even though I figured out a portion of the plot (something I pride myself on being good at, mind you) I continued to enjoy it thoroughly because of the hope of justice and the pursuit of Gemma’s happiness. I kept guessing and second-guessing myself. This book was so well paced that I didn’t skip a single word – I could miss something detrimental!
If you’re interested in this novel do not form any judgments until after chapter two and enjoy this thrilling journey as Gemma, and the ever-perfect Victor hunt a killer who may be hunting them.
*I received this book free in exchange for an honest review*
December 31, 2017
I read this book in about two days, it was such a page-turner! My grandmother-in-law had similar gifts to Gemma’s, and also worked with the police to solve murders. I was drawn to The Gift immediately for that reason. I was not disappointed. I really enjoyed the suspense and the idea of the story. I loved that Gemma was a strong, independent woman. If you’re a fan of suspenseful crime mysteries, I recommend this book!
April 22, 2017
This book is different from the others I've read by Landis and I liked it. It was mystery, suspense, and a little ohh la la all at once.
One thing I really loved about this book was the beginning and end. They were written so strongly, the tone for the book was set immediately and I actually read it in a bold voice in my head (does that make sense?) Even in the end, I was back to that bold voice and it made me wish there was more to read after the dynamite conclusion.
Gemma Harding is an independent woman who sees the dead and helps them transition over to the other side, but not quickly or without some emotions/time/work put into it. With a tortured past of her own, Harding has a great connection with the souls she tries to help and I liked that aspect, it gave closure and depth. In this story, she helps detectives catch a serial killer who's been targeting girls in the area. I totally dig the phsycic helping feds gig, it never gets old for me.
This was a fast-paced whirlwind thriller, folks. Enjoy!
One thing I really loved about this book was the beginning and end. They were written so strongly, the tone for the book was set immediately and I actually read it in a bold voice in my head (does that make sense?) Even in the end, I was back to that bold voice and it made me wish there was more to read after the dynamite conclusion.
Gemma Harding is an independent woman who sees the dead and helps them transition over to the other side, but not quickly or without some emotions/time/work put into it. With a tortured past of her own, Harding has a great connection with the souls she tries to help and I liked that aspect, it gave closure and depth. In this story, she helps detectives catch a serial killer who's been targeting girls in the area. I totally dig the phsycic helping feds gig, it never gets old for me.
This was a fast-paced whirlwind thriller, folks. Enjoy!
August 20, 2017
I was intrigued with the premise of the story – a psychic who helps souls pass safely to the other side – and was even more intrigued when I began reading. I love first-person voice books, because in my opinion they make one get in tune with the character straight away. This was exactly the case. Gemma’s (the main character's) thoughts were enthralling to me, and her way of thinking felt kindred somehow. What I also enjoyed was that Gemma isn’t a typical “witch”, as I expected her to be. She's a modern woman leading a modern life, who thinks no higher or lower of herself, but she simply is aware that has a gift: a gift to talk to the dead, see the dead, and the ability to help them sort things out in order to pass over to a better world. I like when stories blend in mystery and spirituality, and this story has it all, including a very thrilling story, which kept me on my toes, reading on… I worried for Gemma, felt with Gemma, and from time to time could even chuckle.
September 11, 2017
Gemma Harding is a clairvoyant medium who sees the souls of the dead and helps them pass into the light. Nearly 30, she’s an author, who’s independent and lives happily alone. She has no fear of death and yearns for when she can join the souls she has helped. She keeps detailed case files on all the souls about their auras, conversations and feelings—and proof of their journeys. Gemma helps a young victim, Katie, a lost and tormented soul who has forgotten her identity in death and is confused. The details of her case point to the possibility of sexual assault. Soon after, Gemma meets an attractive detective, Victor involved in Katie’s case.
A beautifully told paranormal crime thriller, seen through the eyes of an empathetic woman devoted to helping lost souls. The author sensitively develops a three-dimensional protagonist who is believable and likeable. The plot builds powerfully from start to finish with nail biting twists. I found the story hard to put down.
A beautifully told paranormal crime thriller, seen through the eyes of an empathetic woman devoted to helping lost souls. The author sensitively develops a three-dimensional protagonist who is believable and likeable. The plot builds powerfully from start to finish with nail biting twists. I found the story hard to put down.
April 15, 2017
A fantastic psychological thriller.
Narrated in the first person by the character of Gemma Harding, 'The Gift' keeps the reader guessing right to the end. This story draws the reader into a complicated web of deceit and carefully constructed appearances that leave Gemma able to trust only herself and her gift in her search for the answers she needs.
The reader is drawn into Gemma's character in the first chapter by a narration that is almost a stream-of-consciousness passage, by which Landis reveals Gemma's special ability and how it has impacted on her life thus far. The reader, familiar with Gemma's thoughts and feelings, follows her through this story sharing her thrills, fears and questions as events unfold.
This is a brilliant read. I recommend it for anyone who enjoys the mystery/thriller genre, particularly with a psychological edge to it.
Narrated in the first person by the character of Gemma Harding, 'The Gift' keeps the reader guessing right to the end. This story draws the reader into a complicated web of deceit and carefully constructed appearances that leave Gemma able to trust only herself and her gift in her search for the answers she needs.
The reader is drawn into Gemma's character in the first chapter by a narration that is almost a stream-of-consciousness passage, by which Landis reveals Gemma's special ability and how it has impacted on her life thus far. The reader, familiar with Gemma's thoughts and feelings, follows her through this story sharing her thrills, fears and questions as events unfold.
This is a brilliant read. I recommend it for anyone who enjoys the mystery/thriller genre, particularly with a psychological edge to it.
April 11, 2017
Although I don't usually read romances, this story interested me because of the paranormal aspects.
Gemma helps the dead cross over to the light, but when girls are murdered...
I was confused about Gemma's character - independent, single and gifted - and yet she so easily gave her heart and amazingly quickly becomes engaged, despite her 'history'.
However, I did enjoy the investigation and the paranormal parts, and the clever twist.
Overall, a well-written easy read and certainly entertaining.
Gemma helps the dead cross over to the light, but when girls are murdered...
I was confused about Gemma's character - independent, single and gifted - and yet she so easily gave her heart and amazingly quickly becomes engaged, despite her 'history'.
However, I did enjoy the investigation and the paranormal parts, and the clever twist.
Overall, a well-written easy read and certainly entertaining.
June 1, 2017
What a book. Gemma the main character wins your heart immediately, her character is deep and it’s easy to feel an emotional connection to her. She has issues but who doesn’t? And the fact that she sees dead people, doesn’t really help her life. The story is powerful, builds up beautifully, keeps the reader on the edge. I loved the balance between the suspense of the story and Gemma’s personal life. They are weaved together perfectly giving you the whole story. You’re left just turning page after page without wanting to stop.
October 16, 2017
Romance and murder, what a great combination for me! I enjoyed this book very much, it started fast, continued fast and ended fast:) Gemma is a clairvoyant, she can see and talk to dead people. Using that gift, Gemma helps the law forces catch a serial killer on the loose. This book had a great twist which snapped me from my dreamlike reading within seconds. I still don't know what to think about that. But, I do know that Gemma has many more souls to save. Can't wait to see what other books in the series have to offer.
September 15, 2018
She is special and helps the dead to to the light. Her life is not easy and she just does it. When a young girl goes missing her life becomes dangerous. A serial killer is taking and killing. The number of victims are growing and if she is not careful she may be the next victim. Can she help them? Can she find the murderer before she is the next one? See how it will go
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 28, 2022
Gemma is a clairvoyant and helps those that have departed cross over. When she becomes involved in a case of a young girl's disappearance, she soon finds herself on the search for a serial killer. This fast paced read hooked me from the first page and I couldn’t put it down. A fantastic read with great characters, an intriguing storyline, and filled twists, danger, mystery, and romance.
May 16, 2022
Gemma - a clairvoyant who helps souls transition after death - Victor - a police officer on the hunt for a serial killer - Ryan - an officer working under cover - is everyone actually what they see/ Great characters, brilliant story line with lots of action - cant wait for the next book!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 13, 2017
I wasn't sure if I would like this, but I really enjoyed it. It only took me a few days to read it. There were a few twists that I didn't see coming.
This is the second book of this author's that I've read; I'll definitely read more of her work.
This is the second book of this author's that I've read; I'll definitely read more of her work.
May 2, 2022
Wow what a marvelous read. If you are a fan of the Ghost Whisperer then you will love this spellbinding paranormal read. Gemma is a medium assisting law enforcement in finding a series killer. This book qill keep you glued to the last page with its mystery, intrigue, suspense, and drama. Will they catch the killer before he gets one of them?
I received an early copy of this book and am leaving an honest review.
I received an early copy of this book and am leaving an honest review.
May 8, 2022
I absolutely loved Gemma’s story. It was so intriguing, thrilling and highly entertaining from start to finish. There were twists and turns throughout that had me gripping my kindle tightly and not wanting to put it down as I needed to know what was going to happen.
Really well written story with phenomenal characters and a storyline that is filled with action, suspense, murder, drama and emotional turmoil. It was an exciting story and I can’t wait to read more.
Really well written story with phenomenal characters and a storyline that is filled with action, suspense, murder, drama and emotional turmoil. It was an exciting story and I can’t wait to read more.
May 15, 2022
In the wake of death by Nikki Landis.
Transitions book 1.
Absolutely brilliant read.
Gemma Harding can see the dead.
And I help to transition the dead.
What a twisty and confusing read. I loved Gemma. I wasn't sure about Victor or Ryan. I can't wait for next book. 5*.
Transitions book 1.
Absolutely brilliant read.
Gemma Harding can see the dead.
And I help to transition the dead.
What a twisty and confusing read. I loved Gemma. I wasn't sure about Victor or Ryan. I can't wait for next book. 5*.
April 25, 2022
Wow!!! In the Wake of Death by Nikki Landis was not what I expected at all…in a good way!!!! It’s the story of Gemma, a Medium, who gets involved in the search for a serial killer. There are a number of people who help her.
There are so many twists and turns in this story and it is an incredible absorbing police procedural as well!!! All the things I love rolled up into one hugely entertaining, frightening, romantic read!!!!
I am volunteering to leave a review for an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
There are so many twists and turns in this story and it is an incredible absorbing police procedural as well!!! All the things I love rolled up into one hugely entertaining, frightening, romantic read!!!!
I am volunteering to leave a review for an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
April 28, 2022
What a read. This book grabbed me and did not let me put it down until the last page was read. It moves along at a wonderful pace, has amazing characters and a story that has to be experienced. You will not be able to put it down once you start.
April 29, 2022
This book was absolutely incredible. I love a good PNR and Nikki did a wonderful job with the book. This is book #1 in the Transitions series and I can't wait to read the next one.
May 2, 2022
In The Wake of Death is book one in the Transitions series. Henna is a medium who is on the hunt for a serial k!ller. This is a pnr with audience and twists and turns. I can't wait to see what happens next.
May 3, 2022
This book had some crazy moments and twist in the story I never saw. It was an awesome story
May 5, 2017
I won this book on Goodreads. Although the book grasped me once I got to Chapter 2 I found the flow of the book disjointed. It was hard to follow at points hard to see how it got from point A to point B. It needs more details and explanations. But the story line is good. Gemma is an author and medium . She keeps pretty much to herself until she is visited by the spirit of a young girl and she doesn't know where helping this spirit cross over will bring her.
February 23, 2017
There were moments in 'The Gift' that just swept me up. Similarly, there were moments of implausibility that ripped me out of the story.
I found the concept of 'The Gift' fascinating. A woman who sees and interacts with souls and has always understood how the world operates. It's not an entirely brand new idea. A woman who interacts with ghosts. I started reading this book with the likes of Charley Davidson (Darynda Jones) and Grave Sight (Charlaine Harris) in mind.
I loved the story. The chase for the killer was wonderfully built and the clues were expertly dropped. Gemma's drive to find Katie's body and bring her family peace was refreshing and emotionally written. I only wish Gemma had made her presence more powerfully felt.
Generally, this book felt rushed, which worked in its favour towards the end, heightening the reader's fear for Gemma.
My major issue with this book was the protagonist, unfortunately. Landis sets Gemma up as a calm and independent woman in the very first chapter. I found that calm infuriating and hoped that Landis planned to break it. Gemma fell but unfortunately, she was handed a new crutch. And then another new crutch.
I was expecting an independent woman with a lifetime of baggage, wise beyond her years but severely flawed and actively working to make the world better. What we got was a woman full of contradictions. She's a 29-year-old virgin, which suggests she's been wary of men her entire life, yet she throws herself into the arms of not one but two men during the novel and starts professing her love for them within hours. One of which she suspected to be a killer and neither of which she really tried to resist.
Gemma is generally an interesting character. Her unusual innocence is infectious for some odd reason and you can't help but root for her. Her overly trusting nature makes you fear for her safety. I was prepared for and expecting her abduction every single time I turned a page.
This book is a good romance and a nice easy read. Despite the character flaws, I look forward to reading the next instalment and seeing how the events and people in this book have influenced Gemma.
*I was sent this book by the author in exchange for an honest review*
I found the concept of 'The Gift' fascinating. A woman who sees and interacts with souls and has always understood how the world operates. It's not an entirely brand new idea. A woman who interacts with ghosts. I started reading this book with the likes of Charley Davidson (Darynda Jones) and Grave Sight (Charlaine Harris) in mind.
I loved the story. The chase for the killer was wonderfully built and the clues were expertly dropped. Gemma's drive to find Katie's body and bring her family peace was refreshing and emotionally written. I only wish Gemma had made her presence more powerfully felt.
Generally, this book felt rushed, which worked in its favour towards the end, heightening the reader's fear for Gemma.
My major issue with this book was the protagonist, unfortunately. Landis sets Gemma up as a calm and independent woman in the very first chapter. I found that calm infuriating and hoped that Landis planned to break it. Gemma fell but unfortunately, she was handed a new crutch. And then another new crutch.
I was expecting an independent woman with a lifetime of baggage, wise beyond her years but severely flawed and actively working to make the world better. What we got was a woman full of contradictions. She's a 29-year-old virgin, which suggests she's been wary of men her entire life, yet she throws herself into the arms of not one but two men during the novel and starts professing her love for them within hours. One of which she suspected to be a killer and neither of which she really tried to resist.
Gemma is generally an interesting character. Her unusual innocence is infectious for some odd reason and you can't help but root for her. Her overly trusting nature makes you fear for her safety. I was prepared for and expecting her abduction every single time I turned a page.
This book is a good romance and a nice easy read. Despite the character flaws, I look forward to reading the next instalment and seeing how the events and people in this book have influenced Gemma.
*I was sent this book by the author in exchange for an honest review*
January 19, 2024
The Gift is the first book in the Transitions series, which delves into the world of the Clairvoyant, the medium that helps souls move on. Gemma is 29-years-old and single. She has had relationships in the past but doesn't 'crave' them. She even says that some of her relationships failed because she was "too independent, too secure." She meets the soul of a young girl and recognises that she has died a traumatic death, and has to help her. She goes to the police station where she finds out that the Lieutenant is none other than the man who tried to pick her up at the supermarket the night before. Victor and Gemma quickly become entwined, and the plot thickens.
There were parts about this story that I loved and parts that just didn't seem to sit well with me (sorry!). Gemma is so independent, and yet she finds herself in bed with Victor (platonically) incredibly quickly! Not only in bed but in every aspect of her life. So why, when they are heading to somewhere that they both know is trouble, is Victor okay with Gemma's story that she felt sick and left to go home by herself? And yes, I know it wouldn't have helped his side of the story to move forward, but it just seemed a tad strange. Also, Ryan! So independent, and yet clinging onto complete strangers? Sorry, but that didn't work for me. Why was the whole police station smirking at Gemma as she went forward to help the very first time? As for Victor himself, the question I was left with was Why? Cody - why? Yes, they are involved, but why? How? When? As I said, some questions definitely left unanswered for me.
On the whole, I enjoyed this book for the new and refreshing take on the paranormal and suspense side of things. I just couldn't gel with the romance! However, this is just the first book in the series, so maybe things will become clearer as the story progresses. If you want something a bit different with your paranormal suspense, then I definitely recommend you give this one a try.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and my comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Apr 27, 2017
There were parts about this story that I loved and parts that just didn't seem to sit well with me (sorry!). Gemma is so independent, and yet she finds herself in bed with Victor (platonically) incredibly quickly! Not only in bed but in every aspect of her life. So why, when they are heading to somewhere that they both know is trouble, is Victor okay with Gemma's story that she felt sick and left to go home by herself? And yes, I know it wouldn't have helped his side of the story to move forward, but it just seemed a tad strange. Also, Ryan! So independent, and yet clinging onto complete strangers? Sorry, but that didn't work for me. Why was the whole police station smirking at Gemma as she went forward to help the very first time? As for Victor himself, the question I was left with was Why? Cody - why? Yes, they are involved, but why? How? When? As I said, some questions definitely left unanswered for me.
On the whole, I enjoyed this book for the new and refreshing take on the paranormal and suspense side of things. I just couldn't gel with the romance! However, this is just the first book in the series, so maybe things will become clearer as the story progresses. If you want something a bit different with your paranormal suspense, then I definitely recommend you give this one a try.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and my comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Apr 27, 2017
April 10, 2017
I received an ebook of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you Nikki Landis!
When I first started this book, I was unsure about if I would like it or not. The first half of the book felt like it dragged on slightly and I wasn't believing the story. I had trouble with Victor's speech, as it often came across as overly formal. I kept thinking to myself, "Who talks like that?". In addition, I was a little apprehensive about how easily people accepted Gemma's gift. I would have been so skeptical, even with all the proof she provided.
When the book hit halfway however, the winds changed and I was super enthralled. There were multiple plot twists that were unexpected. Landis, like a good mystery author that she is, made us second-guess everything we knew about the characters we had encountered. She flipped the whole story on its head and presented it on a silver platter for us with a smile, leaving us baffled and at a loss for words - in a good way!
I liked the subtle humour in the story, represented in Gemma's thoughts. Those "comments" really made the reader connect more with the main character.
If I had one criticism in the second half, it would be how fast Gemma loves, moves on, is nearly unaffected. After all that trauma, I would have expected more recovery time, especially since she is a self-proclaimed independent woman.
Overall, however, an entertaining book!
When I first started this book, I was unsure about if I would like it or not. The first half of the book felt like it dragged on slightly and I wasn't believing the story. I had trouble with Victor's speech, as it often came across as overly formal. I kept thinking to myself, "Who talks like that?". In addition, I was a little apprehensive about how easily people accepted Gemma's gift. I would have been so skeptical, even with all the proof she provided.
When the book hit halfway however, the winds changed and I was super enthralled. There were multiple plot twists that were unexpected. Landis, like a good mystery author that she is, made us second-guess everything we knew about the characters we had encountered. She flipped the whole story on its head and presented it on a silver platter for us with a smile, leaving us baffled and at a loss for words - in a good way!
I liked the subtle humour in the story, represented in Gemma's thoughts. Those "comments" really made the reader connect more with the main character.
If I had one criticism in the second half, it would be how fast Gemma loves, moves on, is nearly unaffected. After all that trauma, I would have expected more recovery time, especially since she is a self-proclaimed independent woman.
Overall, however, an entertaining book!
April 10, 2017
I'm not a romantic and purchased this book for the paranormal element and the storyline sounded good. For those who read and enjoy romance, you will love this book and that's why it doesn't deserve any less than 5 stars.
The author has developed the characters very well and the writing is excellent. The storyline is great and I thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of the non-romantic parts. If this is a series, I would like to see more sinister ghosts in the next part.
Oh, and there was a very emotional part at the end that nearly caused a tear to escape from my stone cold eyes.... if you've lost someone you love dearly, this part should cause a lump in your throat.
The author has developed the characters very well and the writing is excellent. The storyline is great and I thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of the non-romantic parts. If this is a series, I would like to see more sinister ghosts in the next part.
Oh, and there was a very emotional part at the end that nearly caused a tear to escape from my stone cold eyes.... if you've lost someone you love dearly, this part should cause a lump in your throat.
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