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Bittersweet
Before Jessica, there was Anna…
Malcolm Gatta was a normal Feline Shifter with a normal Shifter life. However, the arrival of a new Clowder member has set him on a journey of love and loss that will lead him down a path of darkness…a path from which he would rather not return.
Bittersweet is a prequel to the Jessica Sweet Trilogy, covering the four years prior to Malcolm’s arrival at Jessica’s home. Take a peek into the life of everyone’s favorite Shifter. You’ll never look at King Kat the same.
Malcolm Gatta was a normal Feline Shifter with a normal Shifter life. However, the arrival of a new Clowder member has set him on a journey of love and loss that will lead him down a path of darkness…a path from which he would rather not return.
Bittersweet is a prequel to the Jessica Sweet Trilogy, covering the four years prior to Malcolm’s arrival at Jessica’s home. Take a peek into the life of everyone’s favorite Shifter. You’ll never look at King Kat the same.
53 pages, ebook
Published May 6, 2017
About the author
Aliya DalRae
34 books450 followersWhat started as therapy turned into a fulltime passion for Aliya DalRae. The fictional town of Fallen Cross, Ohio, and its cast of characters, both human and paranormal, reside in her imagination, and she brings their stories of love, loss and redemption to life in her Jessica Sweet Trilogy, and The Fallen Cross Pack and Fallen Cross Legion Series. You can find Aliya on Facebook and Goodreads, or subscribe to her newsletter at http://eepurl.com/dtEWqH for twice-monthly updates, contests and more.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
September 24, 2019
A sad story and a powerful prequel. Sadness in loss is hard to deal with. Memories keep coming back through things that you just happened to see, or places that you passed by. It's too hard especially if it is your better half that is gone. You will always be teary-eyed when you happen to read a story like this one.
As they say, time heal wounds, but I guess time just eases the pain but the scar will always remain. Blaming oneself, regretting to do what you ought to do, and asking yourself what you did wrong or did I do enough or less that's why it happen is something your going to deal when alone.
Yeah, you made me cry, it just that I couldn't shift to a cat in order for me to avoid people and leave everything behind. Coping will be way to long, but I'm getting there.
Got this from prolific works... I don't know what to expect next but thank you for this one. Bittersweet but life has to move on.
As they say, time heal wounds, but I guess time just eases the pain but the scar will always remain. Blaming oneself, regretting to do what you ought to do, and asking yourself what you did wrong or did I do enough or less that's why it happen is something your going to deal when alone.
Yeah, you made me cry, it just that I couldn't shift to a cat in order for me to avoid people and leave everything behind. Coping will be way to long, but I'm getting there.
Got this from prolific works... I don't know what to expect next but thank you for this one. Bittersweet but life has to move on.
November 26, 2018
A sad story and a powerful prequel. Sadness in loss is hard to deal with. Memories keep coming back through things that you just happened to see, or places that you passed by. It's too hard especially if it is your better half that is gone. You will always be teary-eyed when you happen to read a story like this one.
As they say, time heal wounds, but I guess time just eases the pain but the scar will always remain. Blaming oneself, regretting to do what you ought to do, and asking yourself what you did wrong or did I do enough or less that's why it happen is something your going to deal when alone.
Yeah, you made me cry, it just that I couldn't shift to a cat in order for me to avoid people and leave everything behind. Coping will be way to long, but I'm getting there.
Got this from prolific works... I don't know what to expect next but thank you for this one. Bittersweet but life has to move on.
As they say, time heal wounds, but I guess time just eases the pain but the scar will always remain. Blaming oneself, regretting to do what you ought to do, and asking yourself what you did wrong or did I do enough or less that's why it happen is something your going to deal when alone.
Yeah, you made me cry, it just that I couldn't shift to a cat in order for me to avoid people and leave everything behind. Coping will be way to long, but I'm getting there.
Got this from prolific works... I don't know what to expect next but thank you for this one. Bittersweet but life has to move on.
August 29, 2017
I picked this up for a quick read before bedtime and wound up devouring it. I was quickly introduced to the world of Fallen Cross, and I am hooked!
July 8, 2017
A Shape-Shifter in Rare Form!
For the most part, I grinned from ear to ear like a Cheshire cat while reading Aliya DalRae’s backstory about Malcolm, the dreadlock hottie/cat shape-shifter one brushes up against in ‘Sweet Vengeance’ (Book 1) of her paranormal series. For the most part—because the story isn’t idyllic cream in a saucer! There’s a dollop of heart wrenching pain which predisposes Malcolm to hunker down on his haunches as a feline in opposition to his Clowder’s overlord.
The author cleverly fleshes out Jessica Sweet’s beloved King Kat, a shape-shifter in rare form, whom the reader meets on his terms in “Bittersweet” through his trademark cynicism, sardonic humor, and defiance. Besides discovering Malcolm’s last name which I’m not going to divulge, and learning that he drove a pay loader for Anderson Sand & Gravel when in human form—that’s not the soul of this story which easily shifts and transitions as a prequel to ‘Sweet Vengeance,’ or whets your appetite for ‘Sweet Discovery’ (Book 2).
Although this offering can standalone—you know what they say—“Curiosity killed the cat!” You’ll find yourself stalking Malcolm and the cast of characters in Fallen Cross just as I intend to do.
For the most part, I grinned from ear to ear like a Cheshire cat while reading Aliya DalRae’s backstory about Malcolm, the dreadlock hottie/cat shape-shifter one brushes up against in ‘Sweet Vengeance’ (Book 1) of her paranormal series. For the most part—because the story isn’t idyllic cream in a saucer! There’s a dollop of heart wrenching pain which predisposes Malcolm to hunker down on his haunches as a feline in opposition to his Clowder’s overlord.
The author cleverly fleshes out Jessica Sweet’s beloved King Kat, a shape-shifter in rare form, whom the reader meets on his terms in “Bittersweet” through his trademark cynicism, sardonic humor, and defiance. Besides discovering Malcolm’s last name which I’m not going to divulge, and learning that he drove a pay loader for Anderson Sand & Gravel when in human form—that’s not the soul of this story which easily shifts and transitions as a prequel to ‘Sweet Vengeance,’ or whets your appetite for ‘Sweet Discovery’ (Book 2).
Although this offering can standalone—you know what they say—“Curiosity killed the cat!” You’ll find yourself stalking Malcolm and the cast of characters in Fallen Cross just as I intend to do.
May 9, 2017
Sweet!!
Malcolm's back story is layered with great love and even greater pain. Though we knew a little of his past through the first two installments of the Jessica Sweet trilogy we get to know him much more intimately through this short story. Yes, Malcolm needs his own story (maybe even his own trilogy). He meets and falls for the newest member of his Clowder, Anna. They are quickly married and living in wedded bliss when Anna announces she is pregnant. There are many problems with the pregnancy and Malcolm ends up losing everything. His devastating loss affects all of his future relationships. Jessica may be the only one who can save him.
Malcolm's back story is layered with great love and even greater pain. Though we knew a little of his past through the first two installments of the Jessica Sweet trilogy we get to know him much more intimately through this short story. Yes, Malcolm needs his own story (maybe even his own trilogy). He meets and falls for the newest member of his Clowder, Anna. They are quickly married and living in wedded bliss when Anna announces she is pregnant. There are many problems with the pregnancy and Malcolm ends up losing everything. His devastating loss affects all of his future relationships. Jessica may be the only one who can save him.
September 22, 2017
Fans of Aliya DalRae’s Jessica Sweet Trilogy—“Sweet Vengeance”, “Sweet Discovery”, and “Sweet Destiny” (as of yet to be released)—will rejoice (and swoon) over this well-written, must-read novella based on Jessica’s unforgettable shape-shifting feline companion/watchcat, Malcolm Gatta. In this endearing yet harrowing tale, we discover Malcolm’s tragic past, and how a doomed love that had been fated to last an eternity drove him to reject his life as a human being in favor of turning feral.
As expected, DalRae’s characters are compelling in “Bittersweet”. They are complex and well-developed with back-stories that are rich in detail and history. Though their paranormal abilities are imaginary in real life, they seem as real and familiar as anyone you would meet on the street—except for the fact that they are vampires, werewolves, sorcerers, and shifters, of course.
DalRae’s true gift for telling a proper tale shines in “Bittersweet” as we follow Malcolm through his epic journey of love, betrayal, loss, and redemption, and the aptly named tale pulls the reader in from the beginning and never let’s go. DalRae’s colorful imagery and creative dialogue creates a strong yearning to turn that next page, to follow the character through hell, and to learn what his fate will be. It can easily be read as a stand-alone novel. In the end, Malcolm’s story gives much insight into the entire Sweet series and should be considered a must-read for every DalRae fan!
As expected, DalRae’s characters are compelling in “Bittersweet”. They are complex and well-developed with back-stories that are rich in detail and history. Though their paranormal abilities are imaginary in real life, they seem as real and familiar as anyone you would meet on the street—except for the fact that they are vampires, werewolves, sorcerers, and shifters, of course.
DalRae’s true gift for telling a proper tale shines in “Bittersweet” as we follow Malcolm through his epic journey of love, betrayal, loss, and redemption, and the aptly named tale pulls the reader in from the beginning and never let’s go. DalRae’s colorful imagery and creative dialogue creates a strong yearning to turn that next page, to follow the character through hell, and to learn what his fate will be. It can easily be read as a stand-alone novel. In the end, Malcolm’s story gives much insight into the entire Sweet series and should be considered a must-read for every DalRae fan!
August 3, 2017
A perfect lazy afternoon or end of day read.
'Bittersweet' is the story of Malcolm, the black cat who features in Sweet Vengeance and Sweet Discovery, the first two novels in the Jessica Sweet trilogy.
The Jessica Sweet paranormal/mystery/romance novels portray Malcolm as a dark, mysterious creature who keeps his secrets closely concealed. 'Bittersweet' shows much more of who he is - sensitive and loving, yet carrying a burden that nobody else can understand.
This is a powerful and moving story, even for readers who are not familiar with DalRae's Jessica Sweet novels. It works equally well as a standalone story, a companion backstory to the novels, or a very effective appetizer as an introduction to the novels.
DalRae's writing is highly expressive and yet still so comfortable that the reader is drawn right into the world of Fallen Cross.
This book can be easily read in an hour, so 'Bittersweet' would be a perfect lazy afternoon or end of day read.
'Bittersweet' is the story of Malcolm, the black cat who features in Sweet Vengeance and Sweet Discovery, the first two novels in the Jessica Sweet trilogy.
The Jessica Sweet paranormal/mystery/romance novels portray Malcolm as a dark, mysterious creature who keeps his secrets closely concealed. 'Bittersweet' shows much more of who he is - sensitive and loving, yet carrying a burden that nobody else can understand.
This is a powerful and moving story, even for readers who are not familiar with DalRae's Jessica Sweet novels. It works equally well as a standalone story, a companion backstory to the novels, or a very effective appetizer as an introduction to the novels.
DalRae's writing is highly expressive and yet still so comfortable that the reader is drawn right into the world of Fallen Cross.
This book can be easily read in an hour, so 'Bittersweet' would be a perfect lazy afternoon or end of day read.
May 15, 2017
What a tasty little piece of catnip! Malcolm is such a great character and I loved this quick peek into his traumatic past.
August 9, 2017
Loved this Sweet prequel!
After loving him in Sweet Vengeance, I couldn't wait to read more about Malcolm. This story was filled with fun and bittersweet romance, and did not disappoint. It made me love Malcolm even more! I can't wait to read Sweet Discovery now!
After loving him in Sweet Vengeance, I couldn't wait to read more about Malcolm. This story was filled with fun and bittersweet romance, and did not disappoint. It made me love Malcolm even more! I can't wait to read Sweet Discovery now!
December 15, 2017
Bittersweet
What a great introduction to Malcolm who we never really new his story in the novels. He was just there, at Jessica's side. Now, we know why and how he came to be.
Malcolm is a great character with an incredible past. If you've read the novels, you won't want to miss this gem!
What a great introduction to Malcolm who we never really new his story in the novels. He was just there, at Jessica's side. Now, we know why and how he came to be.
Malcolm is a great character with an incredible past. If you've read the novels, you won't want to miss this gem!
November 5, 2017
I picked up this book because it was short. I have never read a book of this genre before now. I must admit it was unusual to say the least. Although the story is rather traditional it is the ending which is unique. Therein lies the strength of the writing. I plan to check out more books of DalRae’s because if Bittersweet is any indication of The author’s talent, I won’t be disappointed.
May 26, 2017
Loved reading this Short story - Malcolm is an interesting Cat Shifter and was fascinating to read about his life prior to settling in with his new charge of Jessica Sweet.
May 7, 2018
Excellent novel!!
July 18, 2018
Just wow! This book was short (1-2 hour read), but the author lets you know beforehand so you don't get disappointed. And honestly, that's the only bad thing about this book!
This story follows Malcolm, the black panther shifter who also makes an appearance in in Sweet Vengeance and Sweet Discovery, the first two novels in the Jessica Sweet series.
Malcom is a sensitive and loving, yet carrying a burden that nobody else can understand. Malcolm wasn’t looking for love, in fact he was avoiding it like a dirty litter box but he could not resist Anna.
Speaking from personal experience, it's hard to fit a great story and an HEA into a short story such as this one. Aliya does a super good job of this though😊
5 stars!
This story follows Malcolm, the black panther shifter who also makes an appearance in in Sweet Vengeance and Sweet Discovery, the first two novels in the Jessica Sweet series.
Malcom is a sensitive and loving, yet carrying a burden that nobody else can understand. Malcolm wasn’t looking for love, in fact he was avoiding it like a dirty litter box but he could not resist Anna.
Speaking from personal experience, it's hard to fit a great story and an HEA into a short story such as this one. Aliya does a super good job of this though😊
5 stars!
October 10, 2018
Malcolm is a wolf shifter who has always thought he would not be the one who would fall in love at first site but when he meets the sister and daughter of his pack he is totally taken with Anna but her sister Kythryn who has been chasing after him for so long that he just lets her follow him around he has never encouraged her but she tells her sister that she and Malcolm had something going on and when he couldn't wait another minute to speak to Anna and be close to her she tells him what her sister said he had to laugh and tell her the truth after that they were inseparable, life was good and he had never been so happy. Short story This is a heartbreaking romance of love found and lost. I was given a copy as gift from the author.
July 19, 2018
I liked the story line. You make us grieve for the husband's losses. This story is very inspiring, to show all things take a different amount of time for different people.
December 29, 2022
I love this & I can't wait for more.
I will be also leaving a review on Goodreads @ Amazon.
And letting everyone know about it.
So i gave it a 5 Stars.
I will be also leaving a review on Goodreads @ Amazon.
And letting everyone know about it.
So i gave it a 5 Stars.
October 16, 2017
Malcolm Gatta's touching backstory transported me to a fantasy world I've not visited in a long time. I lean more toward science fiction and thrillers, not being that much of a vampire or zombie fan, which seem to dominate the fantasy genre of late. But as a cat lover and someone who has often envied my housecats' idyllic existence, the idea of a cat shifter was intriguing, so I couldn't resist checking it out. It's the prequel to a trilogy which I have not yet read, but will probably add it to my reading list after experiencing this beautifully written, albeit heartrending tale of loss and renewed hope.
My only criticism is that I felt the sprinkling of expletives was unnecessary. There were probably only three in the entire story, but they were biggies, didn't add to the story or characters, and such that I would hesitate to gift this story to my grandchildren. It's not that I'm personally offended by such language myself. After all, my father was in the Navy and I worked at NASA over 20 years around engineers and such, plus have to admit I drop a few myself from time to time. There's no question that some situations are best expressed through an expletive. Furthermore, sad but true, coarse language is now a part of today's popular culture like never before, a possible symptom of what the world has become. However, there are still some who wish to avoid it and/or don't want to condone much less encourage it. There are also creative ways to include such words in a story without actual use.
I feel crossing the PG barrier can cut off readers from an author's fan list, which most can ill-afford. It's apparently still enough of an issue that on sites where books are rated such as BookCave, inappropriate language is pointed out along with content related to sex and violence. I didn't mean to go off on a total rant about it because this story really was outstanding, but it would have been even better to me without the bombs which seemed out of place with the smooth, even poetic, narrative as a whole.
My only criticism is that I felt the sprinkling of expletives was unnecessary. There were probably only three in the entire story, but they were biggies, didn't add to the story or characters, and such that I would hesitate to gift this story to my grandchildren. It's not that I'm personally offended by such language myself. After all, my father was in the Navy and I worked at NASA over 20 years around engineers and such, plus have to admit I drop a few myself from time to time. There's no question that some situations are best expressed through an expletive. Furthermore, sad but true, coarse language is now a part of today's popular culture like never before, a possible symptom of what the world has become. However, there are still some who wish to avoid it and/or don't want to condone much less encourage it. There are also creative ways to include such words in a story without actual use.
I feel crossing the PG barrier can cut off readers from an author's fan list, which most can ill-afford. It's apparently still enough of an issue that on sites where books are rated such as BookCave, inappropriate language is pointed out along with content related to sex and violence. I didn't mean to go off on a total rant about it because this story really was outstanding, but it would have been even better to me without the bombs which seemed out of place with the smooth, even poetic, narrative as a whole.
January 17, 2018
Great Story.
The book intrigued me when the author was nominated for one of my Best Indie Titles of 2017 awards on my author blog, and the author was nice enough to share the story with me for a review. I enjoyed this story, and found it interesting as it depicted a cat shifter. I've read a lot of fantasy and paranormal stories, and this one ranks up with the good ones. I didn't read the one that came before it, but I definitely will now, and reread this one. I look forward to reading more of Dalrae's work. It's a very interesting premise, and I enjoyed it very much. It wasn't cartoony, but more like an emotional story filled with qualities of humans and our feline friends.
The book intrigued me when the author was nominated for one of my Best Indie Titles of 2017 awards on my author blog, and the author was nice enough to share the story with me for a review. I enjoyed this story, and found it interesting as it depicted a cat shifter. I've read a lot of fantasy and paranormal stories, and this one ranks up with the good ones. I didn't read the one that came before it, but I definitely will now, and reread this one. I look forward to reading more of Dalrae's work. It's a very interesting premise, and I enjoyed it very much. It wasn't cartoony, but more like an emotional story filled with qualities of humans and our feline friends.
May 9, 2017
Having read both of Aliya's books, and also having a fondness for Malcolm, I couldn't wait to get my hands on this short story. Read it in an afternoon. It reveals how Malcolm came into Jessica's life and his story before Jessica, sad , sweet and a very enjoyable read! Parts of it made me snicker, for personal reasons, if you have cats you might snicker too! Not a reviewer by any means, just a voracious reader and I loved this one!!! You won't be sorry you read this one if you have enjoyed Sweet Vengeance and Sweet Discovery.
September 28, 2020
❤️. 📚. 👍
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews