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Scented
*When you’re haunted by death, is your only chance for peace scented like an angel?*
When Bryan Harper was eight-years-old, his mother died tragically in a car wreck. He was chilled when he realized the sickening smell clinging to her beforehand was a sign of what was to come. Haunted by a "gift" that lets him know who is going to die next, Bryan, now sixteen, seeks solace in solitude.
Having narrowly escaped death as a young child, Lauraline Reese fears the reaper still searches for her. She's seeking to fit in and be normal in her new school, but can she when the storm that almost claimed her life continues to stalk her?
When Lauraline Reese walks into Bryan's life, he knows immediately she's different. She smells like no other living person he's ever encountered. She's got the scent of ashes to ashes and dust to dust. And he's drawn to her to discover why.
As the two grow close, Lauraline helps Bryan discover a vital message. As they decipher what to do next, they must each come to terms with their unique gifts as they race against death to set things right.
Scented is powerful tale about life, death and love, woven through the tapestry of characters with unique abilities. If you enjoy stirring, supernatural tales with love at their center, you'll adore Scented.
When Bryan Harper was eight-years-old, his mother died tragically in a car wreck. He was chilled when he realized the sickening smell clinging to her beforehand was a sign of what was to come. Haunted by a "gift" that lets him know who is going to die next, Bryan, now sixteen, seeks solace in solitude.
Having narrowly escaped death as a young child, Lauraline Reese fears the reaper still searches for her. She's seeking to fit in and be normal in her new school, but can she when the storm that almost claimed her life continues to stalk her?
When Lauraline Reese walks into Bryan's life, he knows immediately she's different. She smells like no other living person he's ever encountered. She's got the scent of ashes to ashes and dust to dust. And he's drawn to her to discover why.
As the two grow close, Lauraline helps Bryan discover a vital message. As they decipher what to do next, they must each come to terms with their unique gifts as they race against death to set things right.
Scented is powerful tale about life, death and love, woven through the tapestry of characters with unique abilities. If you enjoy stirring, supernatural tales with love at their center, you'll adore Scented.
- GenresRomanceParanormal
ebook
First published July 6, 2016
9 people are currently reading
403 people want to read
About the author
R.J. Crayton
19 books100 followersRJ Crayton is the author of the three book series. The Prophecy of Light series includes Trapped, Unleashed and the soon to be released Foretold. The Virus series includes Concealed, Exposed, and Contained. The fast-paced dystopian Life First series include Life First, Second Life and Third Life:Taken. She's also author of the paranormal novel Scented and the short-story collection Four Mothers. Prior to becoming an author, Crayton was a journalist. She reported for several publications, including The Kansas City Star and Education Technology News. Crayton lives in Maryland with her husband and two children. When she's not writing, she enjoys eating cupcakes, walking, reading, sewing or watching TV (she's partial to Star Trek, super hero flicks and gripping dramas). To find out more about her, visit her website, www.rjcrayton.com.
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
February 18, 2017
I started reading this book for curiosity and I found it very intriguing. It is a romance with a paranormal tone. The two main characters Bryan and Lauraline meet in H.S. They both possess particular gifts and unfortunately have both lost their mothers when they were children. They become friends and start to bond as they try to figure out life, love and their abilities.
The book is very well written and it really draws you into the story. I absolutely recommend this book to teens and adults who enjoy YA romance/paranormal books.
The book is very well written and it really draws you into the story. I absolutely recommend this book to teens and adults who enjoy YA romance/paranormal books.
November 2, 2016
Scented: a love story by RJ Crayton
This is a unique story about two teenagers, who are learning to come to grips with their own special gifts. Bryan Harper has a secret he has only shared with his father; he can smell impending death in the living. As a result he has chosen to live a life of solitude to keep the smell of death at bay, except for his best friend Ferraz. When Brian encounters Lauraline Reese, a new transfer student to Knightsdale High School, he discovers an extraordinary smell he has never smelled on a living person before. Curiosity and attraction drive Bryan to determine why Lauraline emits this smell.
Lauraline has a secret as well, one that scares the bejeezus out of her. The only person she thinks can help is her grandmother, who is suffering from Alzheimer’s, and whose lucid moments are fleeting.
Both Lauraline and Bryan are realistic and engaging. I found it easy to be sympathetic to both of them. I also enjoyed the fact that their talents end up complementing each other as they grow to understand and control the abilities they once despised. The twists and turns in the plot keep the story moving forward at a good pace. Relationships are also examined closely. Bryan and his father’s has always been distant, troubled, and complicated. Lauraline’s father is overly protective, which isn’t uncommon in any father/daughter relationship as they reach dating age. Because of a past family history Lauraline is afraid that if her father knew her secret he would have her committed.
I had pegged this book as a young adult or coming-of-age, however, when the author threw in a small number of F-bombs I figured I must be mistaken. Honestly, these didn’t even bother me or seem out of place as they express extreme frustration in the situation. What did bother me was the repetition. This is an element that also gave me the feeling that this story was written for a younger audience, to stress the points being repeated. Honestly, I don’t need to be told something more than two times and only if it is extremely important.
Bottom line; this is a provocative and enchanting tale dealing with many complicated elements which were brought to a satisfying ending. However, certain components were left open ended for the story to continue. I would like to see that happen.
FYI: There are three F-bombs. **Originally written for "BigAl’s Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy.** October 19, 2016
Format/Typo Issues: Small number of proofing issues.
This is a unique story about two teenagers, who are learning to come to grips with their own special gifts. Bryan Harper has a secret he has only shared with his father; he can smell impending death in the living. As a result he has chosen to live a life of solitude to keep the smell of death at bay, except for his best friend Ferraz. When Brian encounters Lauraline Reese, a new transfer student to Knightsdale High School, he discovers an extraordinary smell he has never smelled on a living person before. Curiosity and attraction drive Bryan to determine why Lauraline emits this smell.
Lauraline has a secret as well, one that scares the bejeezus out of her. The only person she thinks can help is her grandmother, who is suffering from Alzheimer’s, and whose lucid moments are fleeting.
Both Lauraline and Bryan are realistic and engaging. I found it easy to be sympathetic to both of them. I also enjoyed the fact that their talents end up complementing each other as they grow to understand and control the abilities they once despised. The twists and turns in the plot keep the story moving forward at a good pace. Relationships are also examined closely. Bryan and his father’s has always been distant, troubled, and complicated. Lauraline’s father is overly protective, which isn’t uncommon in any father/daughter relationship as they reach dating age. Because of a past family history Lauraline is afraid that if her father knew her secret he would have her committed.
I had pegged this book as a young adult or coming-of-age, however, when the author threw in a small number of F-bombs I figured I must be mistaken. Honestly, these didn’t even bother me or seem out of place as they express extreme frustration in the situation. What did bother me was the repetition. This is an element that also gave me the feeling that this story was written for a younger audience, to stress the points being repeated. Honestly, I don’t need to be told something more than two times and only if it is extremely important.
Bottom line; this is a provocative and enchanting tale dealing with many complicated elements which were brought to a satisfying ending. However, certain components were left open ended for the story to continue. I would like to see that happen.
FYI: There are three F-bombs. **Originally written for "BigAl’s Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy.** October 19, 2016
Format/Typo Issues: Small number of proofing issues.
August 23, 2020
Three words: Love, Paranormal and Tears. I haven’t ugly cried over a book for a while and this book made me into a crying mess. I love this book and I enjoyed it so much! Definitely a 5 star read for me. Heads up for a book review ahead so keep on reading. :)
I dived into the book blind so I was not expecting it to be a paranormal romance. This is actually the first time that I read a book from that genre and I am so happy I did! It took me a few nights to read this book since I was working on my thesis during the day. But I love how the story unveiled itself, how the characters grew into better individuals and most of all, I loved how the book reminded me of how beautiful it is to be alive.
So let’s get to the characters shall we? Bryan and Lauraline are connected in experience since they both no longer have their moms with them. What made the connection stronger was their peculiar abilities, Bryan can smell death while Lauraline can see ghosts. They’re still normal teenager though and they perfectly complement each other because throughout the story, they motivated each other to get out of their comfort zones. And what I admire most in relationships, I saw in them. They had not only a genuine love but a mature love that is grounded on honesty and understanding.
My absolute favorite character is Zorah, Lauraline’s grandmother. I love how she seems to be full of life despite having Alzheimer’s. Her memories were being erased one by one by her disease but even so, she was able to show me how wonderful it is to be alive. My absolute favorite line said by Zorah was, “But God doesn’t give us more than we can handle. If he gave it to you, you can handle it.” And when I read that line, I teared a little because it’s so true.
What I appreciated most about this story is the emphasis on living. One might think that the theme of this story is on death but actually it’s on being able to move forward and to continue living. I have noticed that the characters had different ways of coping with death and hurt. And sometimes, just like what was shown in this book, our ways of coping can negatively affect not only us but other people too. Well, you’ll know what I mean when you read this book so get a copy now!
Note: I originally posted this review in my tumblr blog (bookishkiddo) back in 2017.
I dived into the book blind so I was not expecting it to be a paranormal romance. This is actually the first time that I read a book from that genre and I am so happy I did! It took me a few nights to read this book since I was working on my thesis during the day. But I love how the story unveiled itself, how the characters grew into better individuals and most of all, I loved how the book reminded me of how beautiful it is to be alive.
So let’s get to the characters shall we? Bryan and Lauraline are connected in experience since they both no longer have their moms with them. What made the connection stronger was their peculiar abilities, Bryan can smell death while Lauraline can see ghosts. They’re still normal teenager though and they perfectly complement each other because throughout the story, they motivated each other to get out of their comfort zones. And what I admire most in relationships, I saw in them. They had not only a genuine love but a mature love that is grounded on honesty and understanding.
My absolute favorite character is Zorah, Lauraline’s grandmother. I love how she seems to be full of life despite having Alzheimer’s. Her memories were being erased one by one by her disease but even so, she was able to show me how wonderful it is to be alive. My absolute favorite line said by Zorah was, “But God doesn’t give us more than we can handle. If he gave it to you, you can handle it.” And when I read that line, I teared a little because it’s so true.
What I appreciated most about this story is the emphasis on living. One might think that the theme of this story is on death but actually it’s on being able to move forward and to continue living. I have noticed that the characters had different ways of coping with death and hurt. And sometimes, just like what was shown in this book, our ways of coping can negatively affect not only us but other people too. Well, you’ll know what I mean when you read this book so get a copy now!
Note: I originally posted this review in my tumblr blog (bookishkiddo) back in 2017.
April 24, 2018
A different kind of love story. This story is all about relationships with others; father and son, mother and son, neighbors, and friends. The main characters have "unique gifts" and are drawn to one another. They have kept their gifts a secret because of how it affects others around them.
December 8, 2016
An interesting story about characters with unusual gifts. A lovely gentle read.
October 21, 2016
This is a gently paced novel focused on three people, Brian, Lauraline, seniors in high school, and Brian's father, Jack. Lauraline, the new girl, has left Brian breathless from the very first encounter. Brian is a kind, thoughtful young man but he has a skill that makes life extremely difficult. Lauraline also has a paranormal "gift".
The two teenagers also have great loss in common. Brian's mother died when he was eight and his father became cold and distant as a result. He avoids Brian and often seems repulsed by him. Without siblings, Brian has led a lonely life but for his closest friend Ferraz. When Lauraline walks into his heart, Brian is torn as to whether he should tell her about his grisly secret.
Lauraline, too, has lost her mother. But her father has stepped up and been a diligent and loving parent in spite of his own pain. However, Lauraline has a residual phobia from her mother's death. Although she was only three years old and can't remember the car accident, Lauraline knows it was raining when her mother crashed with her in the back seat. Because of this, she is terrified of rain. On her first day at the new school, when lightning hits close to the gymnasium, she screams and faints.
In spite of the fact that these two teenagers have not been able to recover from the deaths of their mothers, they are mature and thoughtful people. By supporting each other, they each become stronger individually. Little do they know that one of them will have to deal with death yet again.
This is a sweetly romantic book and although the darkness of death overshadows the narrative, Brian and Lauraline's courage and determination are inspiring. They are almost a little too level-headed and responsible. There conversations often sound like sessions with a psychologist. I felt the book could have used a bit of humor now and then to lighten the atmosphere. I also felt the message from the beyond was a bit weak. It was wonderful, though, how well they treated each other. This is the kind of relationship everyone should have with a girlfriend or boyfriend.
All in all, if you're looking for a mature, inspiring romance that avoids any sexual incidents, this will fit the bill.
I received a free copy of this book from goodreads in exchange for an honest review. The book was donated to my Little Free Library.
The two teenagers also have great loss in common. Brian's mother died when he was eight and his father became cold and distant as a result. He avoids Brian and often seems repulsed by him. Without siblings, Brian has led a lonely life but for his closest friend Ferraz. When Lauraline walks into his heart, Brian is torn as to whether he should tell her about his grisly secret.
Lauraline, too, has lost her mother. But her father has stepped up and been a diligent and loving parent in spite of his own pain. However, Lauraline has a residual phobia from her mother's death. Although she was only three years old and can't remember the car accident, Lauraline knows it was raining when her mother crashed with her in the back seat. Because of this, she is terrified of rain. On her first day at the new school, when lightning hits close to the gymnasium, she screams and faints.
In spite of the fact that these two teenagers have not been able to recover from the deaths of their mothers, they are mature and thoughtful people. By supporting each other, they each become stronger individually. Little do they know that one of them will have to deal with death yet again.
This is a sweetly romantic book and although the darkness of death overshadows the narrative, Brian and Lauraline's courage and determination are inspiring. They are almost a little too level-headed and responsible. There conversations often sound like sessions with a psychologist. I felt the book could have used a bit of humor now and then to lighten the atmosphere. I also felt the message from the beyond was a bit weak. It was wonderful, though, how well they treated each other. This is the kind of relationship everyone should have with a girlfriend or boyfriend.
All in all, if you're looking for a mature, inspiring romance that avoids any sexual incidents, this will fit the bill.
I received a free copy of this book from goodreads in exchange for an honest review. The book was donated to my Little Free Library.
July 24, 2016
This is an engaging YA romance with a paranormal tone. The two main characters meet in H.S. They both have unusual "gifts" or abilities and have both lost their mothers at young ages. They begin to bond as they try to figure out life, love and their abilities.
The book is very well written and the author's descriptive really draws you into the story. I like that the chapters are from the different characters POV , adding to the depth of the book. It is very clean- no violence, no sex, and no profanity. I would definitely recommend it to teens and adults enjoy YA romance/paranormal books.
***Note: I received an e-copy of the book from the author for an honest review.***
The book is very well written and the author's descriptive really draws you into the story. I like that the chapters are from the different characters POV , adding to the depth of the book. It is very clean- no violence, no sex, and no profanity. I would definitely recommend it to teens and adults enjoy YA romance/paranormal books.
***Note: I received an e-copy of the book from the author for an honest review.***
July 11, 2016
I was given an ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
The premise is original, and the paranormal scenes are believable-- not one eye-roller to be found. The story has well-drawn characters, especially the main character, Bryan. The plot keeps the interest level up, and has some terrific twists and turns. Some scenes are quite moving. My only nit is that there are a few odd word usages, but the meaning can be discerned in context. Other than that, I recommend this book for young people who enjoy fast-paced paranormal reads.
The premise is original, and the paranormal scenes are believable-- not one eye-roller to be found. The story has well-drawn characters, especially the main character, Bryan. The plot keeps the interest level up, and has some terrific twists and turns. Some scenes are quite moving. My only nit is that there are a few odd word usages, but the meaning can be discerned in context. Other than that, I recommend this book for young people who enjoy fast-paced paranormal reads.
September 19, 2016
Not quite the same ole, same ole...but it was a slightly clunky read. I enjoyed the diversity of characters, and dislike that it's something special that doesn't happen in all books.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews