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Forbidden Love #11
Sandman
Somnus spent his time walking in the dreams of others. He ghosted in and out of their lives, unseen, giving them the magic they needed to dream. Nightmares were unusually high, so he slipped into one of his favorite charge’s dream. That’s when she saw him. Really saw him. Against all odds and against all the rules, Rachel could see him.
Rachel has something special about her, a lineage that she is unaware of, that not only draws Somnus’ attention, but the nightmare demon as well. Somnus must protect her, even from herself.
Get ready for a wild ride as Rachel and Somnus come to terms with her heritage, the demon, and their shared destiny.
Rachel has something special about her, a lineage that she is unaware of, that not only draws Somnus’ attention, but the nightmare demon as well. Somnus must protect her, even from herself.
Get ready for a wild ride as Rachel and Somnus come to terms with her heritage, the demon, and their shared destiny.
276 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 3, 2018
7 people are currently reading
55 people want to read
About the author
Danielle James
82 books224 followersI live in KY with my family. While I hold a "real job" my first love will always be writing.
I enjoy lots of different kinds of books, and many different authors. Some of my favorites are, but not limited to, Sandra Hill, Lori Foster, Kelly Armstrong, Stephen King, James Patterson, J.R. Ward and Emma Holly. But I think I would read just about anything with a good plot.
I enjoy lots of different kinds of books, and many different authors. Some of my favorites are, but not limited to, Sandra Hill, Lori Foster, Kelly Armstrong, Stephen King, James Patterson, J.R. Ward and Emma Holly. But I think I would read just about anything with a good plot.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
February 6, 2018
Sandman was a really interesting idea. I've not read anything like it. It's a fantasy, mystery story with demons and nightmares.
Somnus is a Demigod and his specialty is dreams. He visits people while they sleep and when he see Rachel he wants to help her. She is haunted by nightmares.
Rachel awakes from a dream and finds the man who was in them in her room. This can't be possible right?
Someone is haunting dreams and Rachel may be the key to finding the demon. They are an unlikely couple which need each other more than they could ever know.
My main problem with this book was the spoken language. The book reads okay and the stories interesting. The language make sense to the storyline, but it just didn't appeal to me. This is something different for the fantasy mystery fans.
3 stars out of 5. Some readers will definitely love this book. It is well thought out. I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
Somnus is a Demigod and his specialty is dreams. He visits people while they sleep and when he see Rachel he wants to help her. She is haunted by nightmares.
Rachel awakes from a dream and finds the man who was in them in her room. This can't be possible right?
Someone is haunting dreams and Rachel may be the key to finding the demon. They are an unlikely couple which need each other more than they could ever know.
My main problem with this book was the spoken language. The book reads okay and the stories interesting. The language make sense to the storyline, but it just didn't appeal to me. This is something different for the fantasy mystery fans.
3 stars out of 5. Some readers will definitely love this book. It is well thought out. I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
February 11, 2018
Really good
The writing was good, the story entertaining, and the characters engaging. I read it quickly as it flowed well. And the hero stuck with me, when I put the book down, life happens, I couldn't get him out of my head.
The writing was good, the story entertaining, and the characters engaging. I read it quickly as it flowed well. And the hero stuck with me, when I put the book down, life happens, I couldn't get him out of my head.
February 8, 2018
Sandman is a very well written book by Danielle James. This author skillfully combines a wide variety of different paranormal characters, and comes up with a very interesting plot that has some nice twists hidden within. The pace of the book is perfect. I never felt like the author was dragging the story out nor did I ever feel like she was rushing me through the story. There is a good amouht of mystery in this book as well as romance!
Rachel is a very likable character, strong and handles everything that is thrown at her quite well, and she sure has a lot to deal with! Somnus is also a very strong character and just plain adorable, although I doubt he would want to hear that. There are lots of other neat characters in this book that help making this a great book. I for one truly enjoyed this book a lot and can only recommend it to other people who enjoy a good paranormal mystery with a good romance thrown in!
Voluntary review of Advance Reader Copy. I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher.
Rachel is a very likable character, strong and handles everything that is thrown at her quite well, and she sure has a lot to deal with! Somnus is also a very strong character and just plain adorable, although I doubt he would want to hear that. There are lots of other neat characters in this book that help making this a great book. I for one truly enjoyed this book a lot and can only recommend it to other people who enjoy a good paranormal mystery with a good romance thrown in!
Voluntary review of Advance Reader Copy. I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher.
March 21, 2018
Holy freaking God what a book! This was truly an amazing
story so well-written and thought out. Danielle has a way
with words boots bring you in and hold you there to the very
end. This is my first book by her, but it definitely will not be
my last.
This is Samonus and Rachel's story. This is a wonderful tail
I love. He is a dream God or is it says the sand man. When
Rachel actually sees him in the dream and then in his
ghosted form he does not know what to do. But he intends to
find out. And that is where the fun begins. Serious is demon
after her in her dreams but he hands and even more Sinister
plan. And it's up to Rachel and him to figure out how to stop
the creature. he wants Rachel because she has some
hidden powers and wait till you find out what they are. it just
may be what they need to end it it's reign of terror.
Now before I ruin this for you I will leave off here. I hope you
enjoy this book as much as I did. If you do like this book,
please consider leaving a review. The Authors really like it
when you do; they value your opinions too
story so well-written and thought out. Danielle has a way
with words boots bring you in and hold you there to the very
end. This is my first book by her, but it definitely will not be
my last.
This is Samonus and Rachel's story. This is a wonderful tail
I love. He is a dream God or is it says the sand man. When
Rachel actually sees him in the dream and then in his
ghosted form he does not know what to do. But he intends to
find out. And that is where the fun begins. Serious is demon
after her in her dreams but he hands and even more Sinister
plan. And it's up to Rachel and him to figure out how to stop
the creature. he wants Rachel because she has some
hidden powers and wait till you find out what they are. it just
may be what they need to end it it's reign of terror.
Now before I ruin this for you I will leave off here. I hope you
enjoy this book as much as I did. If you do like this book,
please consider leaving a review. The Authors really like it
when you do; they value your opinions too
February 7, 2018
Azerial was giving birth as her mate, Samuel, tried to help her breathe through the pain. But for her, it was more difficult trying not to laugh at his efforts. He hated to see her suffer, but she assured him she was doing fine. His brother, Jacque, was her physician and Samuel was not too happy to have him there for this very private time. But things moved along and baby Somnus, named after the god of dreams, was born.
Many years later, Somnus, a demigod and son of a goddress and vampire, helped humans start their dreams with his dream magic so that they would rest well and find comfort for whatever happened throughout their day. He liked his job very much. Rachel was his favorite because she was different and intrigued him. Her dreams twisted his magic into terrifying nightmares. He started her dream and it was pleasant and peaceful. But as he peeked to see how it progressed, dark clouds rolled in and a demonic figure ran after Rachel, chasing her. Much to his surprise, she turned a corner and was facing him. And she spoke directly to him! And grabbed his hand to pull him along with her to safety! But she was not supposed to see, hear, or touch him in her dreams – this was not possible!
Rachel woke, and again she surprised him by demanding to know why he was in her room! He was in his ghosted form and she should not have been able to see him! She asked which supernatural he was; and he noticed her home was warded to protect her. She guessed that he was a sort of Sandman. He had much to do that night, but asked if he could come back and talk about this more. She wanted some answers as well! And while they had been talking, Baku, the dream demon in her nightmares, watched their interaction closely.
Baku had wanted to enter the living realm, not stay confined to nightmares. And when he came across a dream god, they fought and Baku absorbed his magic. Most dream gods did not enter the dream realm, just started the dreaming. But he found if he intensified the nightmares, the dream god would come to investigate and he would take their power. With Somnus being half vampire, he was susceptible to dreaming too! Baku would take his power and use it for his plan to come to the world of the living! Would he be able to overcome Somnus? And what was Rachel’s secret, that she could see the supernatural beings when no one else could?
This was a well written story that quickly moved along. Not only was the pacing good, but it had enough tension and suspense to keep the reader interested. I definitely recommend this one!
Many years later, Somnus, a demigod and son of a goddress and vampire, helped humans start their dreams with his dream magic so that they would rest well and find comfort for whatever happened throughout their day. He liked his job very much. Rachel was his favorite because she was different and intrigued him. Her dreams twisted his magic into terrifying nightmares. He started her dream and it was pleasant and peaceful. But as he peeked to see how it progressed, dark clouds rolled in and a demonic figure ran after Rachel, chasing her. Much to his surprise, she turned a corner and was facing him. And she spoke directly to him! And grabbed his hand to pull him along with her to safety! But she was not supposed to see, hear, or touch him in her dreams – this was not possible!
Rachel woke, and again she surprised him by demanding to know why he was in her room! He was in his ghosted form and she should not have been able to see him! She asked which supernatural he was; and he noticed her home was warded to protect her. She guessed that he was a sort of Sandman. He had much to do that night, but asked if he could come back and talk about this more. She wanted some answers as well! And while they had been talking, Baku, the dream demon in her nightmares, watched their interaction closely.
Baku had wanted to enter the living realm, not stay confined to nightmares. And when he came across a dream god, they fought and Baku absorbed his magic. Most dream gods did not enter the dream realm, just started the dreaming. But he found if he intensified the nightmares, the dream god would come to investigate and he would take their power. With Somnus being half vampire, he was susceptible to dreaming too! Baku would take his power and use it for his plan to come to the world of the living! Would he be able to overcome Somnus? And what was Rachel’s secret, that she could see the supernatural beings when no one else could?
This was a well written story that quickly moved along. Not only was the pacing good, but it had enough tension and suspense to keep the reader interested. I definitely recommend this one!
Read
October 6, 2020' "I am not the most articulate or the nicest person in the family. I don't have a way with words, nor do I give a shit if I've offended someone." "Well, no, you're a dragon. I can't imagine a dragon being any different than you are." '
I didn't except anything when I started this book. But actually, it was a really good reading ! I really appreciate how the mythological world is created and developped all along the book. It was interesting, and we can see that the author worked hard on it. It is deep, as I except fantasy books to be. Secondly, the characters are also great, which is something, I think, very important. I really appreciate Rachel : she is strong, independant, and freaking awesome ! This IS the type of women I love in stories. And Somnus, for once, isn't a bad guy, even though he's a vampire. So, good point on that too ! I wished they were just more developped, all of them, because they sound so cool – especially the relationship between Somnus and Rachel, and his family – and I want to get to know them better. Talking about relationships, I shipped Somnus and Rachel, but things are going a little bit too fast between them in the beginning. It is still credible at the end, but still. I like when things are slow between the protagonists, haha. The handwriting is also nice. It is fluid, easy to read. The story « rotate » between tension and action, and calm and fun. It is a great mix. The plot itself is, by this way, good. I just wished it was even more developped and not so « easy » at some points (SPOILERS : mostly about the deamon. It would have been even better if we saw it more!)
So, to conclude, I have been really surprised by « Sandman », but it was a little bit too short, in my opinion. I was deeply in the story, and I wanted more about the characters and the plot. But it is still a good and nice read !
I didn't except anything when I started this book. But actually, it was a really good reading ! I really appreciate how the mythological world is created and developped all along the book. It was interesting, and we can see that the author worked hard on it. It is deep, as I except fantasy books to be. Secondly, the characters are also great, which is something, I think, very important. I really appreciate Rachel : she is strong, independant, and freaking awesome ! This IS the type of women I love in stories. And Somnus, for once, isn't a bad guy, even though he's a vampire. So, good point on that too ! I wished they were just more developped, all of them, because they sound so cool – especially the relationship between Somnus and Rachel, and his family – and I want to get to know them better. Talking about relationships, I shipped Somnus and Rachel, but things are going a little bit too fast between them in the beginning. It is still credible at the end, but still. I like when things are slow between the protagonists, haha. The handwriting is also nice. It is fluid, easy to read. The story « rotate » between tension and action, and calm and fun. It is a great mix. The plot itself is, by this way, good. I just wished it was even more developped and not so « easy » at some points (SPOILERS : mostly about the deamon. It would have been even better if we saw it more!)
So, to conclude, I have been really surprised by « Sandman », but it was a little bit too short, in my opinion. I was deeply in the story, and I wanted more about the characters and the plot. But it is still a good and nice read !
February 26, 2018
What a great addition to the series! I have been hooked since the first book, and I loved that Danielle continued the series with their children. I like how all of the books are different. Somnus is the child of Azriel and Samuel, and he is a demigod. He controls dreams, and it is there that he first sees Rachel. This book is filled with so much intrigue, and you would never guess the ending from the beginning. I had to find out what was going to happen, and I was hooked from the first page. I could not put the book down, and I had to finish the book in one sitting.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book.
February 6, 2018
Danielle James’s Sandman is a riot. It’s a great story book with a superb love story between it’s leads Somnus and Rachel. It’s linked to the author’s Forbidden Love Series (Somnus is a demigod, son of Azriel the goddess and vampire Sam Knight) but it totally works as a standalone for anyone unfamiliar with those (frankly wonderful) stories. Great plot, pacing and characters. What more could I ask for? Oh yeah, wonderful heat between the leads. Highly recommended.
February 20, 2018
Somnus is a demigod with powers over the realm of sleep and dreams, being the child of the Earth Goddess and a vampire. Though his family and heritage is unusual, even in a realm of supernatural beings, the clan looks out after him and all of its members as he works with the other forces of good inside the gates of Heaven. Extraordinary as his situation is, Somnus's luck is anything but special: if it were he might have found his mate without the crisis of a nightmare demon making other sleep deities disappear and spreading terror to all it can affect in its quest to break into physical reality. Of course, anyone to be mated to such a being has to be special in her own way, and Rachel isn't about to let this handsome being just walk into her life with her guard down….nightmares or no nightmares.
I'll admit that when I first started this novel by Danielle James, I wasn't sure how well I would adapt to such an unusual protagonist. Supernatural romance has grown past simple vampires and werewolves, it's true...but even so, I had my doubts. The writer's skill got me through those doubts. While the different characters span the gamut of mythology, the dialogue and voices of these people are both grounded and full of cleverness. Somnus's family is quite odd but charming, and Rachel provides a needed counterpoint to that eccentricity.
As usual in my reviews in this genre, I do wish I didn't feel like I was thrown into the deep end of the pool. I believe that the world and how it works could use some introduction and perhaps a bit of explanation. Society has obviously adapted to supernaturals being in the world, but how? Are other spells besides wards able to be found on the Internet? These are the things I find myself wondering. But I found the book to be a fun, short read and the dialogue especially is where this writing has its strength.
(Independent reviewer for Romance Authors That Rock)
I'll admit that when I first started this novel by Danielle James, I wasn't sure how well I would adapt to such an unusual protagonist. Supernatural romance has grown past simple vampires and werewolves, it's true...but even so, I had my doubts. The writer's skill got me through those doubts. While the different characters span the gamut of mythology, the dialogue and voices of these people are both grounded and full of cleverness. Somnus's family is quite odd but charming, and Rachel provides a needed counterpoint to that eccentricity.
As usual in my reviews in this genre, I do wish I didn't feel like I was thrown into the deep end of the pool. I believe that the world and how it works could use some introduction and perhaps a bit of explanation. Society has obviously adapted to supernaturals being in the world, but how? Are other spells besides wards able to be found on the Internet? These are the things I find myself wondering. But I found the book to be a fun, short read and the dialogue especially is where this writing has its strength.
(Independent reviewer for Romance Authors That Rock)
April 21, 2018
OMG, what can I say about this book? Where do I even start? It is such an amazing read.
The Sandman is about a dream god named Somnus who falls in love with this woman named Rachel. At first, it seems like she is just an ordinary lady, but you soon discover that she has the ability to see things that others cannot see. After this demon like creature keeps invading her dreams, Somnus and his family decide to find out who she really is, and he takes her to the family house in Los Angeles, where they put her under and discover she has bloodlines to Hades.
Throughout the rest of the book it keeps you in suspense what will happen when she discovers how to control her abilities, and also as she falls in love with Somnus and his family. What would she be willing to risk for the man and family she loves? Can good triumph over evil? Find out in this amazing book.
The Sandman is about a dream god named Somnus who falls in love with this woman named Rachel. At first, it seems like she is just an ordinary lady, but you soon discover that she has the ability to see things that others cannot see. After this demon like creature keeps invading her dreams, Somnus and his family decide to find out who she really is, and he takes her to the family house in Los Angeles, where they put her under and discover she has bloodlines to Hades.
Throughout the rest of the book it keeps you in suspense what will happen when she discovers how to control her abilities, and also as she falls in love with Somnus and his family. What would she be willing to risk for the man and family she loves? Can good triumph over evil? Find out in this amazing book.
April 4, 2018
Whew, That cover! Sandman was a quick paranormal fantasy read. It included a wide range of paranormal/fantasy creatures, a strong female lead, & a cast of likable characters. This is book five of the A Forbidden Love Story series but can be read as a stand-alone. I felt as if I would have understood the characters much better if I had read the previous installments. The premise for this story was interesting, but the storytelling itself lacked that certain wow factor, the angst and anguish that can help carry a story along, and any real connection I’d liked to have toward the characters. I did enjoy the unique storyline but I found myself scanning through the dull parts. This one is great if you’re looking for a quick read.
May 21, 2018
I think this was a great read with a few nice surprises. It starts as some kind of love story with a touch of supernatural. Then it quickly becomes more complex and I absolutely loved that. Even though a lot of things happen in the book, the story isn't hard to understand. The wide arrange of mythological creatures made this book very interesting and unique. I think the development of the characters was also described nicely. I liked Rachel in particular. She is strong, stubborn and funny and after what happened to her at the end of the book I liked her even better. I enjoyed reading this book!
February 6, 2018
This book was very interesting! I quite enjoyed it as well. The plot was paced well and the story well written, I dove right in and didn't come out until it was over. I was a bit confused at first as things happen so abruptly but that abruptness smooths out into something so easy to understand and read, like butter.... mmmm, butter. Anyway, the characters were very interesting. I enjoyed getting to know them, what made them tick and learning thei tiers of the gods and goddesses as well as all the other creatures in this book. I have to say I was surprised by what she turned into, although I shouldn't have been, there were hints throughout but it just didn't dawn on me until it was right in front of me. Terrifyingly beautiful. And he was so accepting! Ah, wish I had a man like that. Preferably with powers as well. Hehe
I read an ARC copy.
I read an ARC copy.
February 5, 2018
Overall rating:5
Absolutely loved this storyline! Dream gods and fury’s...two different paranormals taking the spotlight. The whole family’s relationship with each other was also an intergalactic part to making this book a winner! This whole book screams the necessity to accept someone entirely for who they are. A stand-alone with a great conclusion, it really did make me want to know what comes next for this couple. A wonderful first exposure by this author for me.
Absolutely loved this storyline! Dream gods and fury’s...two different paranormals taking the spotlight. The whole family’s relationship with each other was also an intergalactic part to making this book a winner! This whole book screams the necessity to accept someone entirely for who they are. A stand-alone with a great conclusion, it really did make me want to know what comes next for this couple. A wonderful first exposure by this author for me.
February 5, 2018
Exquisite paranormal romance.
A sexy demigod of dreams. A strong human that can see all the paranormal and supernatural realm. A nightmare demon. And did I mention that the sexy demigod is related to the King of Vampires, a dragon shifter, and a powerful hybrid witch?
The story builds beautifully. The romance and love are sweet, and intense, and powerful in more ways than one. And there’s some excellent twists along the way.
A sexy demigod of dreams. A strong human that can see all the paranormal and supernatural realm. A nightmare demon. And did I mention that the sexy demigod is related to the King of Vampires, a dragon shifter, and a powerful hybrid witch?
The story builds beautifully. The romance and love are sweet, and intense, and powerful in more ways than one. And there’s some excellent twists along the way.
February 9, 2018
Such an interesting tale!
This is my first time reading a book in this series and I was amazed by the story. I couldn’t put it down once I started. It had many twists and turns, plus the characters have such great personalities that really made the story entertaining. I will definitely have to check out the rest of the series.
This is my first time reading a book in this series and I was amazed by the story. I couldn’t put it down once I started. It had many twists and turns, plus the characters have such great personalities that really made the story entertaining. I will definitely have to check out the rest of the series.
February 13, 2018
This book was nothing like I expected. In a good way of course! It made me see some things from a different paranormal view. It's truly a magnificent book and I'm looking forward to the next one. I feel sad that the other controller of dreams stolen of their magic would not survive. But sacrifices must be made to make a book paranormally realistic.
December 1, 2022
This felt very familiar, almost fan fiction. The premise fell in line with the Dark Hunters, without the execution. Throw in vampire names, it’s a little like watching a Buffy episode 🤷♀️ Told not shown, not an enjoyable writing style for me with repetition and awkward speech patterns.
DNF 35% 1.5⭐️
DNF 35% 1.5⭐️
February 4, 2018
Extremely entertaining, captivating, and interesting read. I could not put it down. Wonderfully written with strong characters. I want to read more from this author. I voluntarily read and reviewed an Exclusive Advance Reader Copy of this book.
March 15, 2018
Explosive
Hot ,explosive and minding blowing. From the first page until the last page of this book it will have you on the edge of your seat. If you want the ride of your life this is the series.
Hot ,explosive and minding blowing. From the first page until the last page of this book it will have you on the edge of your seat. If you want the ride of your life this is the series.
June 28, 2018
Another great story
Part of this series, this story brings together most of the previous characters which I love. This author does no wrong and bring to life these characters. Another 5 stars!
Part of this series, this story brings together most of the previous characters which I love. This author does no wrong and bring to life these characters. Another 5 stars!
November 29, 2018
Oh my oh my!!!!
This book is full of twists and turns!! Love, acceptance, and the meaning of family. Finding your true self opens so many doors and so much love. I couldn't put this book down!!
This book is full of twists and turns!! Love, acceptance, and the meaning of family. Finding your true self opens so many doors and so much love. I couldn't put this book down!!
September 20, 2018
I liked the story and the characters, but I felt like there needed to be more detail. Like how was Rachel so accepting of him needing to feed off her. I don't think so, I need more info. And there are so many interesting characters that we could learn about but the details are so sparse. I would definitely read an expanded version or a sequel. I mean Somnus is so amazing I need more of him!
March 26, 2019
I really enjoyed this book as it starts right off hitting the deck running. It starts you with the problem and then you have to hope the characters can figure out how to solve it. There was a mix of supernatural characters with Greek gods and goddesses, Vampires, shifters, Fae and such mixed in some. Now I haven't read any of this authors work before and was worried as this was book 11 that I wouldn't be able to jump in and enjoy with out reading the rest. Yet I was able to get caught up in it right away. When I went and look some of the characters were from previous books but I didn't feel like I had to read the others to understand this one. It did make you want to touch base with them so I will be going back to look at those books. I would read this book again and will be looking for more of this author.
Want to read
August 9, 2021🎁 The complete Series is FREE on Amazon today (8/9/2021)! 🎁
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews