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Whispers from the Bayou #1
Carnage
Carnage
Whispers From the Bayou
Book 1
Raised by a father who curses the day she was born, Carolena finds herself in the swamps of south Louisiana under the guise of overseeing her father’s investments. In truth, she is making every attempt to avoid forced marriage to any of the men he would have her shipped off to. She’s always believed that her husband would love her, would give his very life just to hold her; not be a man who would marry her to claim her father’s wealth. When she arrives in the deep-south, she catches the eye of a local backwoods family of brothers. The eldest, Bobby, decides that he is deserving of a step-up in life, takes her against her will to his hovel of a home at the edge of the swamps to be shared between himself and his brothers. Carolena — not the shrinking flower they think her to be, flees into the deepest, darkest, wildest portion of the swamps in an effort to escape the brothers and their plans for her. Death at the hands of the creatures in these wetlands is a better option, in her mind. Little does she know, she’s also caught the eye of the most dangerous creature there, one of legend — of nightmares. He’s watching her every move, admiring her bravery — and he’s decided he’s keeping her.
Carnage is a Gargoyle. He’s also volatile, dangerous, unpredictable, and lonely. One evening minding his own business at the edge of the sanctuary he calls home, he spies a female. A human female, and she’s running headlong into his swamps, with no regard for her own safety. Then he sees the reason; three men, and they’re hot on her trail, torches in hand, hell bent on catching her before she can get away. He watches as they get closer and closer to her, easily following her trail. Carnage makes a snap decision that changes both their lives forever; he drops out of a tree right behind her, slaps one clawed hand over her mouth to keep her from screaming, wraps her in his huge arms and goes right back to the treetops. He shelters her while the men traverse the ground below, unable to determine why her trail disappeared. Carnage admires this little female — she was brave to run into the swamps alone. There are many creatures lying in wait for just such a meal. But she no longer has to worry about that, because now she’s his. He only hopes that she doesn’t fear him too much once she gets a good look at his blue-grey skin, his fangs and his horns. Because regardless of what she thinks, or the rules of his community — he’s not giving her up.
Whispers From the Bayou
Book 1
Raised by a father who curses the day she was born, Carolena finds herself in the swamps of south Louisiana under the guise of overseeing her father’s investments. In truth, she is making every attempt to avoid forced marriage to any of the men he would have her shipped off to. She’s always believed that her husband would love her, would give his very life just to hold her; not be a man who would marry her to claim her father’s wealth. When she arrives in the deep-south, she catches the eye of a local backwoods family of brothers. The eldest, Bobby, decides that he is deserving of a step-up in life, takes her against her will to his hovel of a home at the edge of the swamps to be shared between himself and his brothers. Carolena — not the shrinking flower they think her to be, flees into the deepest, darkest, wildest portion of the swamps in an effort to escape the brothers and their plans for her. Death at the hands of the creatures in these wetlands is a better option, in her mind. Little does she know, she’s also caught the eye of the most dangerous creature there, one of legend — of nightmares. He’s watching her every move, admiring her bravery — and he’s decided he’s keeping her.
Carnage is a Gargoyle. He’s also volatile, dangerous, unpredictable, and lonely. One evening minding his own business at the edge of the sanctuary he calls home, he spies a female. A human female, and she’s running headlong into his swamps, with no regard for her own safety. Then he sees the reason; three men, and they’re hot on her trail, torches in hand, hell bent on catching her before she can get away. He watches as they get closer and closer to her, easily following her trail. Carnage makes a snap decision that changes both their lives forever; he drops out of a tree right behind her, slaps one clawed hand over her mouth to keep her from screaming, wraps her in his huge arms and goes right back to the treetops. He shelters her while the men traverse the ground below, unable to determine why her trail disappeared. Carnage admires this little female — she was brave to run into the swamps alone. There are many creatures lying in wait for just such a meal. But she no longer has to worry about that, because now she’s his. He only hopes that she doesn’t fear him too much once she gets a good look at his blue-grey skin, his fangs and his horns. Because regardless of what she thinks, or the rules of his community — he’s not giving her up.
242 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 17, 2018
1392 people are currently reading
1530 people want to read
About the author
Sandra R. Neeley
68 books885 followersI write Paranormal, SciFi and Fantasy Romance. Why, you may ask? Romance, because who doesn’t love a good romance, and the lack of reality in the story lines - because, well, normal is highly overrated. I’m 55, I have two kids, one 32 and one 12 (yes, God does have a sense of humor), one grandchild, one husband, and a menagerie of animals. Literally, too damn many things that eat wandering around our property. I love to cook, and I am a voracious reader, though since I started writing I don’t get as much time to read as I once did. I am a homebody and prefer my writing/reading time to a crowd. I have had stories and fictional characters wandering around in my head for as long as I can remember. I started letting them out into the real world and surprisingly, people have loved them. I am a Self-Published Author, and I like it that way because I can decide what and when to write. I am by no means a formal, polished, properly structured individual and neither are my stories. But people seem to love the easy emotion and passion that naturally flow from them. A bit of a warning though, there are some “triggers” in them that certain people should avoid. I’m a firm believer that you cannot have light without the dark. You cannot fully embrace the joy and elation that my people eventually find if you do not bear witness to their darkest hours as well. So please be sure to read the warnings supplied with each of the synopses about my books before you buy them. I've got three series published at this time, Avaleigh's Boys - PNR, Whispers From the Bayou - Fantasy PNR, Haven - a SciFi, and three more in process. I’m a bit sarcastic, scathing actually, and a smartass to boot, so if I offend you, it is most likely not intentional. But be prepared because it probably won’t be the last time. I’m always glad to hear from readers; those who have followed me from the beginning, and those who have just found my people. So feel free to look me up and say hello, or just follow along; either way, I’m glad to have you.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 481 reviews
April 13, 2023
Let me start by saying this is one of my favorite reads!!! Carnage is one of the best paranormal characters I've ever read. Carnage is a gargoyle who is very volatile and feared by most of the inhabitants of the whispers. But when carolena runs into the bayou to escape three brothers who are on a mission to rape and do harm to her carnage makes the decision to claim carolena as his own,knowing that he is breaking the laws of the whispers by bringing a human into their home. What a awesome storyteller Sandra is!! Her characters are all so interesting from carnage who is a gargoyle with a terrible temper,but with carolena he is so sweet and endearing, love him so much. The way he takes care of carolena is beautiful,you can't help but love him. Then theirs enthrall he is a vampire and the leader of this group of paranormals,he too is a fascinating character.Then theirs destroy he is a young gargoyle bad boy oozing with charm and he starts out by causing trouble for carnage and carolena,but he's just lonely and doesn t want carnage to have someone,but he knows that carolena only wants carnage. I can't wait to find out more about all these characters and see them all get someone of their own. And I hope we hear and see more of Lore one of the ancients who is deadly and feared by all,but who is so intriguing !!! A mixture of good and evil and barely hanging into his sanity! Can't wait for the next book in this series which will be destory's story!!!
March 1, 2023
Monsters on the bayou!
The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💛🖤💜💚❤️
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙📔
World building: 🌏🌍🌏🌍🌎
Character development: 🫣🤭🫠😮🥰
The heroine: Carolena - in order to postpone having to choose being married off to a husband she doesn’t want, she tries to prove herself to her wealthy father by going to Louisiana to manage some of his businesses. However, the man she is working with decides he wants to move up in the world and use her to do it, so he holds her captive and decides to get her pregnant so her father will approve of a marriage for them.
The Hero: Carnage - he is a gargoyle living deep in the Louisiana bayou. He lives in a sanctuary for the supernatural that is hidden so that humans will not find it. He is one of the most beastly of the supernaturals there and can’t speak well, many of the others fear him.
The Story: When Carnage sees Carolena running away from three men into the bayou and trying to get away from them, he helps her evade them and is surprised to find that she is not afraid of him since he saved her. He likes the small human female and decides he wants to keep her, so he brings her to his home. The only problem is that humans are not allowed in their sanctuary.
I really enjoyed this story, Carnage was so gruff and could only speak minimally but Carolena could understand him perfectly from the start. His home was fine for him but not really suitable for a human female so he had to let her stay with Enthrall, the vampire in charge of the sanctuary who was enamored with her, and of the other gargoyles, named Destroy wanted her for himself as well.
I liked Destroy who was misunderstood, but also he liked to cause chaos so nobody liked him. Both He and Enthrall were just lonely like Carnage and each of the males wanted someone for themselves. Though Carolena only had eyes for Carnage from the beginning.
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The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💛🖤💜💚❤️
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙📔
World building: 🌏🌍🌏🌍🌎
Character development: 🫣🤭🫠😮🥰
The heroine: Carolena - in order to postpone having to choose being married off to a husband she doesn’t want, she tries to prove herself to her wealthy father by going to Louisiana to manage some of his businesses. However, the man she is working with decides he wants to move up in the world and use her to do it, so he holds her captive and decides to get her pregnant so her father will approve of a marriage for them.
The Hero: Carnage - he is a gargoyle living deep in the Louisiana bayou. He lives in a sanctuary for the supernatural that is hidden so that humans will not find it. He is one of the most beastly of the supernaturals there and can’t speak well, many of the others fear him.
The Story: When Carnage sees Carolena running away from three men into the bayou and trying to get away from them, he helps her evade them and is surprised to find that she is not afraid of him since he saved her. He likes the small human female and decides he wants to keep her, so he brings her to his home. The only problem is that humans are not allowed in their sanctuary.
I really enjoyed this story, Carnage was so gruff and could only speak minimally but Carolena could understand him perfectly from the start. His home was fine for him but not really suitable for a human female so he had to let her stay with Enthrall, the vampire in charge of the sanctuary who was enamored with her, and of the other gargoyles, named Destroy wanted her for himself as well.
I liked Destroy who was misunderstood, but also he liked to cause chaos so nobody liked him. Both He and Enthrall were just lonely like Carnage and each of the males wanted someone for themselves. Though Carolena only had eyes for Carnage from the beginning.
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August 17, 2018
3 Stars
Book Review
Release Date-17/6/18
So I enjoyed the concept of this more than the execution really.
It was a little to light in nature for me to fully appreciate this as I was kind of expecting a somewhat darker overall flavour.
I'm not going to major rehash the storyline her as Most of that is covered in the blurb.
What we have is Carolena escaping from her pursuers into the bayou only to be kinda rescued by the stuff of legends a Gargoyle called Carnage.
I say kinda because he has no intention of letting her go so he's actually taking her really.
Carnage wants to take her home with him to keep safe even though humans are totally forbidden in this sanctuary deep in the swamps.
This sanctuary Whisper is filled with all sorts of dangerous supernaturals hiding out from the human race.
So up until now, I'm all good we have a scary-arse gargoyle who speaks little actual language, a damsel in distress, and the beginnings of a fabulous dark dialect all played out in the spooky swamps.
So this is where it lost me a bit; upon Carolena being discovered by the other supernaturals and the instant death sentence this should be and Carnage shouting Mine every five seconds and threatening fellow gargoyle Destroy and vampire leader Enthrall; this then somehow managed to turn very little house on the prairie in nature.
I actually felt like I was in some weird sorta wonderland.
so I'm going to do this backwards and explain what didn't work for me and then end this on a positive with what did.
I thought the heroines name here just didnt flow right; Carolena well I just wanted to call her, Caroline or Carolina, her name just didn't seem quite right almost like a typo but it wasn't.
This also didn't seem that paranormal despite all the supernaturals or historical despite the year setting maybe because it was set in a swamp and some of the said paranormals here seemed just so human in nature I mean Enthrall was walking in sunlight and making Carolena sandwiches for god's sake.
I also wasn't a fan of the whole village type setting and everyone, in my opinion, accepted the human much too quickly than was actually natural here.
I mean they were hiding out from humans and they were all like well your just gonna have to stay as we don't want to kill you.
I also could not understand how Carolena accepted her fate so fast; I mean she didn't once try to escape her captors who she treated like friends from day one.
Also, the bit with Carolena's dad I just didn't get it; why were all the residents of whispers so afraid of him? just kill him already you're all meant to be big bad scary monsters jeez.
He's one human male.
So what did I like well in a nutshell Carnage I adored the huge ugly gargoyle.
He seemed I trifle simple at times but Carolena herself wasn't the brightest spark so they were for me quite easily matched.
I loved his gruff takes no prisoners attitude, his lack of articulate speech and his obsession with that beauty and the beast book was simply adorable.
Carnage is what made this for me.
That and the front cover picture.
It was the actual cover on this one that actually twisted my arm into purchasing I just wish it could have lived up to it.
This also at times has some interesting moments but they were just for me overshadowed slightly by Carolenas rather annoyingly wingy personality.
I so wish I could have liked this more than I did I really do.
I did finish and there were some enjoyable instances mainly due to Carnage, I also thought this was such an interesting premise just not really for me.
If you like a lighter flavour with your fiction then this one is that despite the cover and the disclaimer.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm.
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
August 9, 2025
I shouldn't judge and audiobook by its cover but I definitely did. I thought this was going to be darker but it was pretty much the sweetest romance I've read before. The tension and bad behaviour was made by other people but the couple and the characters around them was just naaw. It wasn't perfect, there were some things I didn't like but overall I'm excited to see Destroyers romance. The love intrest had difficulty communicating as first, with the vocals. But Destroyer definitely have some issues as well in his own way so I'm intrigued to see it play out.
August 10, 2018
Well, color me surprised. This turned out to be way better than I thought it would be. Not 100% perfect, as I found the heroine to be a bit childish at times, and I wasn't overly fond of both Enthrall and Destroy in love with the heroine as well. But other than those two little niggles this was a fantastic book, and I really want book two ASAP!
July 11, 2018
I wasn’t sure how much I would enjoy a book about a gargoyle that actually looks like a gargoyle. The horns, the fangs, the gray skin. But I did! I loved Carnage sooo much! He was an incredible alpha male with an intense “mine” attitude, the drive to protect and possessive as all get out. His ability to communicate through language is extremely limited but it actually led to some of the most touching scenes I’ve ever read. His happiness was palpable, his anguish extreme and everything he felt was plain to see, feel and experience along with him.
Carolena was a wonderful heroine in that she didn’t dash head first into trusting this strange creature but she was able to quickly discern the nature of his heart and let her own heart lead the way. She was strong and independent for a woman of the early 1900s and I couldn’t have loved her more.
This has several incredible secondary characters that I can’t wait to read about. The world they live in, while being in the swamps of Louisiana, was the perfect backdrop for this band of misfits. I fell in love with each and every one of them as well as all that was good and bad about them.
Overall, this was a wonderful read that I know I will certainly reread again and again.
Multi POV
Safe
Triggers
Carolena was a wonderful heroine in that she didn’t dash head first into trusting this strange creature but she was able to quickly discern the nature of his heart and let her own heart lead the way. She was strong and independent for a woman of the early 1900s and I couldn’t have loved her more.
This has several incredible secondary characters that I can’t wait to read about. The world they live in, while being in the swamps of Louisiana, was the perfect backdrop for this band of misfits. I fell in love with each and every one of them as well as all that was good and bad about them.
Overall, this was a wonderful read that I know I will certainly reread again and again.
Multi POV
Safe
Triggers
July 4, 2018
DNF at 30%
I was lucky to read several good books in a row, including superb Iron and Magic, so, I guess my tolerance level for beyond mediocre is at the lower end.
I love gargoyles and Carnage is a sweetie but something about the writing itself is rubbing me raw – small town/ bayou setting does not automatically require simplifying character’s depiction and dialogue to such extent that it stops being charmingly naïve and becomes annoyingly childish with a hefty dose of stupid. A villainous hick named Bobby, gargoyles named Carnage, Murder and Destroy (shorten to Troy, who behaves as a spoiled brat), vampire named Entrall, who walks in the sunlight, does laundry and makes himself sandwiches and, of course our FC, Carolena(?) who is TSTL. The cover has more intensity and drama than an entire book
I was lucky to read several good books in a row, including superb Iron and Magic, so, I guess my tolerance level for beyond mediocre is at the lower end.
I love gargoyles and Carnage is a sweetie but something about the writing itself is rubbing me raw – small town/ bayou setting does not automatically require simplifying character’s depiction and dialogue to such extent that it stops being charmingly naïve and becomes annoyingly childish with a hefty dose of stupid. A villainous hick named Bobby, gargoyles named Carnage, Murder and Destroy (shorten to Troy, who behaves as a spoiled brat), vampire named Entrall, who walks in the sunlight, does laundry and makes himself sandwiches and, of course our FC, Carolena(?) who is TSTL. The cover has more intensity and drama than an entire book
August 17, 2018
Warning - This book is super sweet
I do love a good gargoyle book and this cover and blurb put this on my list.
But the book itself wasn’t anything like I expected, more on that later.
Carolena finds herself running for her life into the swamps of south Louisiana. She’s rescued by Carnage a huge horned gargoyle.
Now I loved the idea behind this. A hidden village of supernatural creatures living together out of the sight of humans.
And I absolutely loved Carnage, the fact that he couldn’t speak well and yet Carolena understood him. His possessive nature and the way he constantly claimed her.
However the story wasn’t exactly what I expected. I don’t know if it was the cover that suggested (certainly to me anyway) a darker read but it turned out to be incredibly sweet. Think Little House on the Prairie with the Brady Bunch sweet.
While I loved Carnage and most of the other characters I found Carolena annoying. Irritatingly annoying and I also didn’t like that the H and h spent most of the book apart.
If I’m being critical the book was a little too long for the content and far too sweet given the cover. I also found it juvenile in places.
Or maybe that’s just me?
I don’t want to make this a spoiler review but there was something towards the end of the book that just seemed out of character. This is a small thing but I like things to add up and this didn’t for me.
I do love a good gargoyle book and this cover and blurb put this on my list.
But the book itself wasn’t anything like I expected, more on that later.
Carolena finds herself running for her life into the swamps of south Louisiana. She’s rescued by Carnage a huge horned gargoyle.
Now I loved the idea behind this. A hidden village of supernatural creatures living together out of the sight of humans.
And I absolutely loved Carnage, the fact that he couldn’t speak well and yet Carolena understood him. His possessive nature and the way he constantly claimed her.
However the story wasn’t exactly what I expected. I don’t know if it was the cover that suggested (certainly to me anyway) a darker read but it turned out to be incredibly sweet. Think Little House on the Prairie with the Brady Bunch sweet.
While I loved Carnage and most of the other characters I found Carolena annoying. Irritatingly annoying and I also didn’t like that the H and h spent most of the book apart.
If I’m being critical the book was a little too long for the content and far too sweet given the cover. I also found it juvenile in places.
Or maybe that’s just me?
I don’t want to make this a spoiler review but there was something towards the end of the book that just seemed out of character. This is a small thing but I like things to add up and this didn’t for me.
dnf
June 20, 201913% dnf
Wow!!! Dark and gritty begin and end with the book cover. Not only is the story "sweet" so is the narration. The performance reminded me of a grammar school teacher reading to her class, and the voices given the big scary heroes sounded like prepubescent boys. I'm not being mean. Just honest. Needless to say, I'm super disappointed and won't even consider continuing this series.
Wow!!! Dark and gritty begin and end with the book cover. Not only is the story "sweet" so is the narration. The performance reminded me of a grammar school teacher reading to her class, and the voices given the big scary heroes sounded like prepubescent boys. I'm not being mean. Just honest. Needless to say, I'm super disappointed and won't even consider continuing this series.
December 18, 2018
4 stars
I would recommend this to fans of Ruby Dixons Barbarians series. No, it doesn't have aliens. It's more paranormal but utterly sweet and entertaining. Sure, it has it's flaws but I thoroughly enjoyed it. Also judging by the cover you'd think it was a much darker read. It does have some violence and mention of abuse but no where near as dark as the cover might suggest.
P.S. Free on Kindle Unlimited
I would recommend this to fans of Ruby Dixons Barbarians series. No, it doesn't have aliens. It's more paranormal but utterly sweet and entertaining. Sure, it has it's flaws but I thoroughly enjoyed it. Also judging by the cover you'd think it was a much darker read. It does have some violence and mention of abuse but no where near as dark as the cover might suggest.
P.S. Free on Kindle Unlimited
May 2, 2019
DNF at 73%
It's been awhile since I've last read a PNR book, and a good one at that. So when I read the blurb for this one, I thought it would be just what I was looking for. But sadly, nope, no such luck. It all started out fine and I was excited for the story to slowly pick up. And don't get me wrong, I liked the plot but the problem for me were the characters. I mean, I did get some of them and their personalities didn't bother me much, like with Destroy, he's actually one of my favourite characters in this book. The problem that I was having, especially with Carolena's character, was after the 50% mark. Boy oh boy, was she a push over. Seriously, the main reason why I gave up on the entire story was because of her! I just coulnd't stand her weak, goody, whimsy and self-righteous character anymore. Thank God I've got low blood preasure, because she sure did bring it right back up. At least she was good for something!
And let's not forget about Carnage, the man / Gargoyle himself. Yeah, they make a perfect couple. One, who's head is always in the clouds and one, who doesn't know the first thing about good communication - and by that I don't mean that he has some speech problems, what I mean is that maybe, I mean just maybe, he could have said at least something before leaving his 'claimed' woman alone for days. Like, come on! Had it been me, I wouldn't give a rat's ass about your reasons, you'd just be gone from my life, all right!
Now I will admit, there were times where I almost wished Enthrall would get the woman but then again I'm not so mean to bring such unfortune upon the poor pall. I'm sure the future holds something or better said someone better out for him. The same with Destroy. I've got a good feeling about him and his story. So maybe I'll give his book a try but definitely not at the moment. I first need to recover from all this bullshit that went on in this book. And with that, I rest my case! You do what you want with it, I'mma go get me a better PNR story to read.
It's been awhile since I've last read a PNR book, and a good one at that. So when I read the blurb for this one, I thought it would be just what I was looking for. But sadly, nope, no such luck. It all started out fine and I was excited for the story to slowly pick up. And don't get me wrong, I liked the plot but the problem for me were the characters. I mean, I did get some of them and their personalities didn't bother me much, like with Destroy, he's actually one of my favourite characters in this book. The problem that I was having, especially with Carolena's character, was after the 50% mark. Boy oh boy, was she a push over. Seriously, the main reason why I gave up on the entire story was because of her! I just coulnd't stand her weak, goody, whimsy and self-righteous character anymore. Thank God I've got low blood preasure, because she sure did bring it right back up. At least she was good for something!
And let's not forget about Carnage, the man / Gargoyle himself. Yeah, they make a perfect couple. One, who's head is always in the clouds and one, who doesn't know the first thing about good communication - and by that I don't mean that he has some speech problems, what I mean is that maybe, I mean just maybe, he could have said at least something before leaving his 'claimed' woman alone for days. Like, come on! Had it been me, I wouldn't give a rat's ass about your reasons, you'd just be gone from my life, all right!
Now I will admit, there were times where I almost wished Enthrall would get the woman but then again I'm not so mean to bring such unfortune upon the poor pall. I'm sure the future holds something or better said someone better out for him. The same with Destroy. I've got a good feeling about him and his story. So maybe I'll give his book a try but definitely not at the moment. I first need to recover from all this bullshit that went on in this book. And with that, I rest my case! You do what you want with it, I'mma go get me a better PNR story to read.
July 7, 2018
2.5 disappointed stars.
On a scale of 1 to 10 on paranormal alpha hero awesomeness this H was an obedient poodle. The story started out really amazing and I thought I had a real winner but as the story went on I became more annoyed with the starry eyed, do-gooder heroine, the H that was never around, and the fact that the H and h only spent 25% of the book actually together. Heroine was constantly with other secondary characters and inviting them into the scene so there was almost never any one-on-one time with the hero.
I’ll read the next book in this series, as the plot and characters intrigued me, but I’m gonna need more chemistry and depth to the MCs to enjoy it.
On a scale of 1 to 10 on paranormal alpha hero awesomeness this H was an obedient poodle. The story started out really amazing and I thought I had a real winner but as the story went on I became more annoyed with the starry eyed, do-gooder heroine, the H that was never around, and the fact that the H and h only spent 25% of the book actually together. Heroine was constantly with other secondary characters and inviting them into the scene so there was almost never any one-on-one time with the hero.
I’ll read the next book in this series, as the plot and characters intrigued me, but I’m gonna need more chemistry and depth to the MCs to enjoy it.
April 28, 2020
“Carolena tried to reach for his horn again, but in spite of her jumping a bit, couldn’t quite reach them. “Lean down here,” she instructed.
Dutifully, he leaned over. She reached up, grabbed one of his horns, spun on her heel and marched to her bedroom with him in tow.
Yes.
Due to unforeseen circumstances, I've discovered that I prefer horns over tentacles. However this book did not live up to the high expectations I’ve set for it. And now that I’m disappointed, I have only myself and Carolena (with the e) to blame.
Carnage :
Carolena :
Enthrall :
Destroy :
Me :
Dutifully, he leaned over. She reached up, grabbed one of his horns, spun on her heel and marched to her bedroom with him in tow.
Yes.
Due to unforeseen circumstances, I've discovered that I prefer horns over tentacles. However this book did not live up to the high expectations I’ve set for it. And now that I’m disappointed, I have only myself and Carolena (with the e) to blame.
Carnage :
Carolena :
Enthrall :
Destroy :
Me :
May 5, 2020
3 alpha male stars
So to start off, I love that Neeley named the h Carolena (“Caro-Leena”) — that’s my favorite pronunciation of ‘Carolina’ (it’s the Spanish version anyway).
Now onto the fun stuff:
I’m not sure if this is a spoiler or not, but I kinda expected this to be a dark book and it was not. Not that there’s anything wrong with that, but I feel like this book could’ve been more than it was.
I loved the concept of Carnage — he’s this hot alpha-male gargoyle. But he can’t speak. And yet, Carolena was able to understand him. Maybe it was Neeley’s way of showing that they’re essentially made for each other.
However, there’s a problem in the plot.
*Spoiler* The h tried to get away from her father who wasn’t giving her the opportunity to be herself or make her own decision. Carnage, with his alpha-maleness and possessiveness pretty much prevents Carolena from achieving this independence. Even though, in the end, he (and others) save her from her father’s clutches.
In all, though, this was a sweet, short read that was pretty straightforward. It’s kinda a reverse harem, though not really. No cheating. No angst.
It was cute. And so now that I know what to expect in writing style/plot style, I’m prepared for book 2 of this series.
So to start off, I love that Neeley named the h Carolena (“Caro-Leena”) — that’s my favorite pronunciation of ‘Carolina’ (it’s the Spanish version anyway).
Now onto the fun stuff:
I’m not sure if this is a spoiler or not, but I kinda expected this to be a dark book and it was not. Not that there’s anything wrong with that, but I feel like this book could’ve been more than it was.
I loved the concept of Carnage — he’s this hot alpha-male gargoyle. But he can’t speak. And yet, Carolena was able to understand him. Maybe it was Neeley’s way of showing that they’re essentially made for each other.
However, there’s a problem in the plot.
*Spoiler* The h tried to get away from her father who wasn’t giving her the opportunity to be herself or make her own decision. Carnage, with his alpha-maleness and possessiveness pretty much prevents Carolena from achieving this independence. Even though, in the end, he (and others) save her from her father’s clutches.
In all, though, this was a sweet, short read that was pretty straightforward. It’s kinda a reverse harem, though not really. No cheating. No angst.
It was cute. And so now that I know what to expect in writing style/plot style, I’m prepared for book 2 of this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 12, 2018
DNF Chapter 10
Too many POV's. Nearly every person introduced had his/her own POV. And they changed from paragraph to paragraph. I really don't need the POV of "villain" Bobby and whatnot.
The names were well, not really cool. Enthrall for a vampire. Carnage and Murder for the Gargoyles. Bobby for the bayou-living-simpleton. And the Hero and Heroine had both names with a "C". I just find it all very unoriginal.
The story was all right I guess. The Heroine didn't interest me at all. Her past experiences with the horrible Bobby were explained, but I just couldn't find it in me to care. The feelings weren't there.
And the Hero couldn't talk. He just grumbled, said a few words, or part of words and that was it. But of course Heroine always new what Hero wanted to tell her. I just find it really difficult to understand him. And I don't know why he had to have this problem. The other of his kind didn't have this problem, one of them even spoke with an English accent. It didn't make any sense to me at all.
So I stopped reading, because I couldn't find it in me to care. Not a bad book, just not what I like to read about.
Too many POV's. Nearly every person introduced had his/her own POV. And they changed from paragraph to paragraph. I really don't need the POV of "villain" Bobby and whatnot.
The names were well, not really cool. Enthrall for a vampire. Carnage and Murder for the Gargoyles. Bobby for the bayou-living-simpleton. And the Hero and Heroine had both names with a "C". I just find it all very unoriginal.
The story was all right I guess. The Heroine didn't interest me at all. Her past experiences with the horrible Bobby were explained, but I just couldn't find it in me to care. The feelings weren't there.
And the Hero couldn't talk. He just grumbled, said a few words, or part of words and that was it. But of course Heroine always new what Hero wanted to tell her. I just find it really difficult to understand him. And I don't know why he had to have this problem. The other of his kind didn't have this problem, one of them even spoke with an English accent. It didn't make any sense to me at all.
So I stopped reading, because I couldn't find it in me to care. Not a bad book, just not what I like to read about.
July 18, 2020
Fleeing through the bayou and away from the men who are trying to catch her, the last thing Carolena expects is to be rescued. However, that isn't her biggest surprise s her rescuer isn't entirely human. When Carnage sees the human running through the swaps, pursued by three man, he makes a split second decision which changes both his life and hers forever. Because, now she has seen him, she can never return to the human world.
Am I smiling? I feel like I'm still smiling. I can't help it, whenever I think of this book I get a big cheesy grin on my face. Because despite the dark, slightly terrifying visage on the book cover, this was an incredibly sweet romance. We are introduced to the town of Whispers which is a sanctuary for supernatural beings, such as gargoyles and vampires, so they can live without being harassed by humans. They have few rules, but one of them is that no humans are allowed. So when the silent Carnage, who lives very simply and apart from the rest of the community, brings back Carolena, Enthrall the leader of Whispers and a vampire is in a tricky situation.
If you're looking for a fast paced romance full of twists and turns this isn't the book, instead Neeley has written a really cute romance. Despite Carnage's fearsome appearance there's nothing cruel about him, he's protective and earnest in his complete devotion to Carolena. Carolena has had her life turned upside down and now finds herself living in a village filled with mythical creatures and rather than being hysterical she quickly comes to appreciate the place and the people. Especially Carnage. Their romance was so adorable! I loved that despite Carnage having issues with speech Carolena never has issues understanding him.
In terms of an overall plot moving the book ahead it was a fairly slowly moving. What Carnage focused on was Carolena getting to know the residents of Whispers and finding her place within it. I really enjoyed getting to know the people such as the boisterous but lonely Destroy, another gargoyle and Enthrall the leader of Whispers. It really made reading the book a rich experience as Carolena falls in love not just with Carnage but with her new life. However, if you are after something fast paced and more story driven then this isn't the book.
This was a great start to the series and I can't wait to read more. If you are after a new paranormal romance which is a good light read but has plenty of heart then you need to give it a try.
Am I smiling? I feel like I'm still smiling. I can't help it, whenever I think of this book I get a big cheesy grin on my face. Because despite the dark, slightly terrifying visage on the book cover, this was an incredibly sweet romance. We are introduced to the town of Whispers which is a sanctuary for supernatural beings, such as gargoyles and vampires, so they can live without being harassed by humans. They have few rules, but one of them is that no humans are allowed. So when the silent Carnage, who lives very simply and apart from the rest of the community, brings back Carolena, Enthrall the leader of Whispers and a vampire is in a tricky situation.
If you're looking for a fast paced romance full of twists and turns this isn't the book, instead Neeley has written a really cute romance. Despite Carnage's fearsome appearance there's nothing cruel about him, he's protective and earnest in his complete devotion to Carolena. Carolena has had her life turned upside down and now finds herself living in a village filled with mythical creatures and rather than being hysterical she quickly comes to appreciate the place and the people. Especially Carnage. Their romance was so adorable! I loved that despite Carnage having issues with speech Carolena never has issues understanding him.
In terms of an overall plot moving the book ahead it was a fairly slowly moving. What Carnage focused on was Carolena getting to know the residents of Whispers and finding her place within it. I really enjoyed getting to know the people such as the boisterous but lonely Destroy, another gargoyle and Enthrall the leader of Whispers. It really made reading the book a rich experience as Carolena falls in love not just with Carnage but with her new life. However, if you are after something fast paced and more story driven then this isn't the book.
This was a great start to the series and I can't wait to read more. If you are after a new paranormal romance which is a good light read but has plenty of heart then you need to give it a try.
November 7, 2022
Excellent! I really hope that there’s a lot more books in this series. I love Carnage and the secondary characters are delicious. Hope they all speak to the author and demand their story (especially the Dragon Tree).
May 13, 2020
5 stars
What a nice surprise! This book was really good and I can’t wait for the next one!
What a nice surprise! This book was really good and I can’t wait for the next one!
July 9, 2018
Whispers From the Bayou, Book 1. Once you've been to Whispers, you'll never want to leave!
Carolena Ashlar is a most unique young lady: lovely, educated, well-spoken, and intuitive beyond measure. But there are things even she doesn't know. To escape her father's callous disregard and attempts to marry her off, she heads for southern Louisiana. She never expects what she finds! Kidnapped by her father's employee and his brothers, Carolena rushes headlong into the Louisiana swamps. Just as she's about to be recaptured, down swoops...who? Or is it what? He should terrorize her. Bluish-gray skin, clawed hands...and HORNS! Instead, she feels safe and secure in his arms. But Carolena's far from safe. Carnage is a gargoyle, a creature of myth that shouldn't exist. When he spirits her off to Whispers, he knows two things. He won't let her go. And she can't stay. Even as Carolena learns of the danger Carnage has placed her in, she falls in love, not just with Carnage, but with Whispers and all its inhabitants. As that love grows and is returned tenfold, a danger arises threatening to raze Whispers to the ground and annihilate everyone Carolena now holds dear, As she realizes the future of Whispers is in her hands, Carolena knows there's only one way to save these precious souls. But can she do it? It will cost her everything. Does she have a choice? Is there any other way? Or will she have to sacrifice the most precious thing to ever happen to her in order to save it?
I don't know how, but Sandra Neeley has outdone herself! I love romance, shifters, thrillers, mythology, fantasy, and mysteries in equal measure. But what Ms. Neeley has created is so far beyond extraordinary that I truly don't have words to describe it. She's expertly and intricately woven these elements into one of the best paranormal books I've ever read. I do not exaggerate. I fell in love with Carnage and Carolena. Carnage rescues Carolena, saves her life, only to put her in mortal peril all over again. He can't help himself. But, amazingly, Carolena turns around and rescues Carnage right back! The relationship between these two should never work. She's human. He's a being of magic and legend. They've seemingly nothing in common. Carnage can barely talk. Carolena is well-spoken, educated. The dichotomy is evident. Yet Carolena and Carnage don't just work. They're perfection! Add the wealth of beautifully crafted characters, the breathtaking beauty of the Louisiana bayou country, the incredible depth of emotion demonstrated by every character in this book, and you literally have a masterpiece. It's no surprise at all that Carnage is a bestseller! It's a work of art! And as much as I adored Carnage and Carolena, I was totally enchanted by Enthrall. Add in Destroy, Murder, Lore, Abraham, Seth, Serena, and all the other supporting characters, and you have a story that's heartrendingly beautiful and absolutely exquisite. I can't wait for the next book in this series! Congratulations, Ms. Neeley! I adored this book! Carnage deserves so much more than five stars!
A final note. This is an ADULT book. It contains explicit language, hints of darkness and violence, and sexual scenes. If you don't enjoy this genre, this may not be the book for you. There are book synopses and reviews available on Goodreads and all booksellers' websites. Use these resources. DON'T LEAVE A NEGATIVE REVIEW WHEN YOU KNOW YOU WON'T ENJOY THE BOOK. It's not fair to the author. She works hard to provide a quality work product. If you know you'll object to a book's subject matter before you buy it, you're doing yourself and the author an extreme disservice.
Thanks for reading my review and happy reading!
Carolena Ashlar is a most unique young lady: lovely, educated, well-spoken, and intuitive beyond measure. But there are things even she doesn't know. To escape her father's callous disregard and attempts to marry her off, she heads for southern Louisiana. She never expects what she finds! Kidnapped by her father's employee and his brothers, Carolena rushes headlong into the Louisiana swamps. Just as she's about to be recaptured, down swoops...who? Or is it what? He should terrorize her. Bluish-gray skin, clawed hands...and HORNS! Instead, she feels safe and secure in his arms. But Carolena's far from safe. Carnage is a gargoyle, a creature of myth that shouldn't exist. When he spirits her off to Whispers, he knows two things. He won't let her go. And she can't stay. Even as Carolena learns of the danger Carnage has placed her in, she falls in love, not just with Carnage, but with Whispers and all its inhabitants. As that love grows and is returned tenfold, a danger arises threatening to raze Whispers to the ground and annihilate everyone Carolena now holds dear, As she realizes the future of Whispers is in her hands, Carolena knows there's only one way to save these precious souls. But can she do it? It will cost her everything. Does she have a choice? Is there any other way? Or will she have to sacrifice the most precious thing to ever happen to her in order to save it?
I don't know how, but Sandra Neeley has outdone herself! I love romance, shifters, thrillers, mythology, fantasy, and mysteries in equal measure. But what Ms. Neeley has created is so far beyond extraordinary that I truly don't have words to describe it. She's expertly and intricately woven these elements into one of the best paranormal books I've ever read. I do not exaggerate. I fell in love with Carnage and Carolena. Carnage rescues Carolena, saves her life, only to put her in mortal peril all over again. He can't help himself. But, amazingly, Carolena turns around and rescues Carnage right back! The relationship between these two should never work. She's human. He's a being of magic and legend. They've seemingly nothing in common. Carnage can barely talk. Carolena is well-spoken, educated. The dichotomy is evident. Yet Carolena and Carnage don't just work. They're perfection! Add the wealth of beautifully crafted characters, the breathtaking beauty of the Louisiana bayou country, the incredible depth of emotion demonstrated by every character in this book, and you literally have a masterpiece. It's no surprise at all that Carnage is a bestseller! It's a work of art! And as much as I adored Carnage and Carolena, I was totally enchanted by Enthrall. Add in Destroy, Murder, Lore, Abraham, Seth, Serena, and all the other supporting characters, and you have a story that's heartrendingly beautiful and absolutely exquisite. I can't wait for the next book in this series! Congratulations, Ms. Neeley! I adored this book! Carnage deserves so much more than five stars!
A final note. This is an ADULT book. It contains explicit language, hints of darkness and violence, and sexual scenes. If you don't enjoy this genre, this may not be the book for you. There are book synopses and reviews available on Goodreads and all booksellers' websites. Use these resources. DON'T LEAVE A NEGATIVE REVIEW WHEN YOU KNOW YOU WON'T ENJOY THE BOOK. It's not fair to the author. She works hard to provide a quality work product. If you know you'll object to a book's subject matter before you buy it, you're doing yourself and the author an extreme disservice.
Thanks for reading my review and happy reading!
July 5, 2018
Blah
I liked the premise BUT I hated how carnage couldn't talk and the rest of his brethren could speak just as well as the rest of us. Also I felt like she chose him without knowing really anything about him. The book was lack luster and I really had to force myself to finish. I hate that I paid for this book I didn't think it was worth the money.
I liked the premise BUT I hated how carnage couldn't talk and the rest of his brethren could speak just as well as the rest of us. Also I felt like she chose him without knowing really anything about him. The book was lack luster and I really had to force myself to finish. I hate that I paid for this book I didn't think it was worth the money.
December 1, 2018
I love this story! It took me a while to give it a chance because of the cover. Very scary and misleading. I've never read anything like it. Carnage's super sweet and protective of those he loves. I loved the humor in this book. The plot did not disappoint. I'll definitely be reading book 2. Like Destroy, I hope Enthrall has his own story too.
July 5, 2018
Waste of $2
Waste of $2. Poorly written with constantly flipping POV. Reads like a first grader book. Did not finish. Very one dimensional, see spot run, sort of writing.
Waste of $2. Poorly written with constantly flipping POV. Reads like a first grader book. Did not finish. Very one dimensional, see spot run, sort of writing.
June 20, 2018
This story of a forbidden love will take you through the muggy Louisiana swamp, trudging in the thick mud, and you'll come out renewed and feeling more alive than before.
Carnage isn't your typical hero. He's brutal, but kind . He's fierce, but loving. And he is precisely what Carolena needs. Never judge a monster by his horns, you'll love Carnage too.
Read in about 3 hours. Good luck taking breaks!!
Carnage isn't your typical hero. He's brutal, but kind . He's fierce, but loving. And he is precisely what Carolena needs. Never judge a monster by his horns, you'll love Carnage too.
Read in about 3 hours. Good luck taking breaks!!
July 2, 2019
Phew! How do I even find these books, really!
Look at the cover, read the blurb and you pretty much expect a dark horror-ish paranormal read skimming on the edges of too much. At least I did.
But damn! Carnage was a huge TEDDY BEAR!!
Like a big grey teddy bear with horns. This turned out to be such an unbearably sweet book. Like every character from Whispers is a supremely amazing, misunderstood, lonely ball of fuzz!
And that kinda threw me off, leading to the three stars. While awesome, the book was a little too long and wayy too much sugar. A little alpha male thrown in, in my opinion, would have balanced the overall tone perfectly.
While in the beginning, I kept thinking, "No, I don't wanna read Destroy's book", he gets better and I start to look forward to his but what I really want is to read Murder's book. He had my attention the moment he showed up on the pages.
It's always so incredibly amazing to discover new to me authors and Sandra definitely is a blast to read, little things annoyed me, the book could have used some editing and the time frame of the plot coupled with the on-goings totally clashed but I was able to look past it and that's all that matters.
August 15, 2018
DNF at 33%
Though he was a sweetie and I wanted to like him, I couldn’t work up any interest or enthusiasm for Carnage bec I was baffled by his lack of speech. Just a big turn off for me. Others of his kind didn’t have this problem so I didn’t get it.
Though he was a sweetie and I wanted to like him, I couldn’t work up any interest or enthusiasm for Carnage bec I was baffled by his lack of speech. Just a big turn off for me. Others of his kind didn’t have this problem so I didn’t get it.
August 4, 2022
2.5 stars
I really though I hit the jackpot with this one, but unfortunately was very very boring.
Was intrigued by the world created but ended up a bit unoriginal, although the author could have created something amazing.
This is super insta-love, the Hero doesn't speak except a few slurred words, and he's basically growling MINE in everyone s face. Now don't get me wrong, I love myself a possessive caveman but this H was far from that, to me he came across as more of a secondary character than anything.
I say this because apart from putting the heroine at the top of a tree to save her in the first chapter he basically is almost non-existent the rest of the book. He's always away doing something other than spending time with Carolena. And that leaves her with plenty of time to be with other males characters. I definitely was more invested in her ending up with Enthrall, Murder , Destroy or even Lore.
I was expecting the smut to be incendiary , let's say you would need a canister of fuel for anything to catch fire here.
This being said I'm still curious to read this other's characters stories so I might give it a go.
I really though I hit the jackpot with this one, but unfortunately was very very boring.
Was intrigued by the world created but ended up a bit unoriginal, although the author could have created something amazing.
This is super insta-love, the Hero doesn't speak except a few slurred words, and he's basically growling MINE in everyone s face. Now don't get me wrong, I love myself a possessive caveman but this H was far from that, to me he came across as more of a secondary character than anything.
I say this because apart from putting the heroine at the top of a tree to save her in the first chapter he basically is almost non-existent the rest of the book. He's always away doing something other than spending time with Carolena. And that leaves her with plenty of time to be with other males characters. I definitely was more invested in her ending up with Enthrall, Murder , Destroy or even Lore.
I was expecting the smut to be incendiary , let's say you would need a canister of fuel for anything to catch fire here.
This being said I'm still curious to read this other's characters stories so I might give it a go.
September 26, 2018
Fleeing through the bayou and away from the men who are trying to catch her, the last thing Carolena expects is to be rescued. However, that isn't her biggest surprise s her rescuer isn't entirely human. When Carnage sees the human running through the swaps, pursued by three man, he makes a split second decision which changes both his life and hers forever. Because, now she has seen him, she can never return to the human world.Am I smiling? I feel like I'm still smiling. I can't help it, whenever I think of this book I get a big cheesy grin on my face. Because despite the dark, slightly terrifying visage on the book cover, this was an incredibly sweet romance. We are introduced to the town of Whispers which is a sanctuary for supernatural beings, such as gargoyles and vampires, so they can live without being harassed by humans. They have few rules, but one of them is that no humans are allowed. So when the silent Carnage, who lives very simply and apart from the rest of the community, brings back Carolena, Enthrall the leader of Whispers and a vampire is in a tricky situation.
If you're looking for a fast paced romance full of twists and turns this isn't the book, instead Neeley has written a really cute romance. Despite Carnage's fearsome appearance there's nothing cruel about him, he's protective and earnest in his complete devotion to Carolena. Carolena has had her life turned upside down and now finds herself living in a village filled with mythical creatures and rather than being hysterical she quickly comes to appreciate the place and the people. Especially Carnage. Their romance was so adorable! I loved that despite Carnage having issues with speech Carolena never has issues understanding him.
In terms of an overall plot moving the book ahead it was a fairly slowly moving. What Carnage focused on was Carolena getting to know the residents of Whispers and finding her place within it. I really enjoyed getting to know the people such as the boisterous but lonely Destroy, another gargoyle and Enthrall the leader of Whispers. It really made reading the book a rich experience as Carolena falls in love not just with Carnage but with her new life. However, if you are after something fast paced and more story driven then this isn't the book.
This was a great start to the series and I can't wait to read more. If you are after a new paranormal romance which is a good light read but has plenty of heart then you need to give it a try.
Reviewed by Suzanne❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
June 21, 2019
5 Stars
Carnage is the first book in the Whispers From the Bayou Series by Sandra R. Neeley. It’s such an original, and different story- and I mean that in a really good way. It’s a paranormal romance full of action, adventure, violence, supernatural & paranormal creatures, mystery, romance, and sizzle.
Carnage is a fearsome, volatile, and dangerous gargoyle who lives in Whispers, a sanctuary for supernatural and paranormal creatures- deep in the Bayou swamps.
Carolena has fled into the swamp to escape three men who intend to do her harm. Carnage just happens to be there and decides right then and there that he’s going to help her- and keep her. Only one small problem- Whispers doesn’t allow humans there- and Carnage is breaking their laws by taking her home. What happens when she’s discovered?
I really enjoyed this fantastic story! It was such a fun and exciting read! It jumps right into the action- but it’s also full of funny moments, tender scenes, sexy scenes, chemistry, and plenty of suspenseful developments.
The characters are unique, somewhat quirky, complex, and fully realised individuals. I wanted to know all about them, and was completely absorbed by them and the story. Ms. Neeley’s world building is just fantastic- she brought the creatures to life, giving the story complete believability.
The story started off really well- but just seemed to get better as it progressed! I really can’t wait to read the rest of the series!
Thank you, Ms. Neeley!
Carnage is the first book in the Whispers From the Bayou Series by Sandra R. Neeley. It’s such an original, and different story- and I mean that in a really good way. It’s a paranormal romance full of action, adventure, violence, supernatural & paranormal creatures, mystery, romance, and sizzle.
Carnage is a fearsome, volatile, and dangerous gargoyle who lives in Whispers, a sanctuary for supernatural and paranormal creatures- deep in the Bayou swamps.
Carolena has fled into the swamp to escape three men who intend to do her harm. Carnage just happens to be there and decides right then and there that he’s going to help her- and keep her. Only one small problem- Whispers doesn’t allow humans there- and Carnage is breaking their laws by taking her home. What happens when she’s discovered?
I really enjoyed this fantastic story! It was such a fun and exciting read! It jumps right into the action- but it’s also full of funny moments, tender scenes, sexy scenes, chemistry, and plenty of suspenseful developments.
The characters are unique, somewhat quirky, complex, and fully realised individuals. I wanted to know all about them, and was completely absorbed by them and the story. Ms. Neeley’s world building is just fantastic- she brought the creatures to life, giving the story complete believability.
The story started off really well- but just seemed to get better as it progressed! I really can’t wait to read the rest of the series!
Thank you, Ms. Neeley!
November 1, 2022
This may be a re-read, but it just gets better!
This book was AMAZING! Carolena was raised by a resentful wealthy father who had no time for her and didn't want her. She went to Louisiana to prove to her father that she didn't need a man to take care of her because Carolena didn't want to be married off to someone just to be gotten rid of, she wanted someone to love her.
Carnage lives in the swamps of Louisiana. He is a gargoyle. Carnage lives alone and very deep in the swamps of a supernatural community called Whispers. Carnage is dangerous, non-communicative, more beast than most, until he sees a little human female running through the swamps from 3 men.
I just enjoyed this book so much! Sandra Neele y has put some herself.
I like how she made Carnage so vicious, he hardly talks, most everyone fears him, his description is unsettling, even his name is fearful, but this little spunky female who runs from regular humans can stand up to Carnage with no fears. Lore is an original character, he intrigues me, so I am looking forward to learning more about him. The Dragon Tree feels like it may be important at some point. Enthrall, Murder, Destroy, even the children were such great characters. This is only book one and I am already craving book 2.
This book was AMAZING! Carolena was raised by a resentful wealthy father who had no time for her and didn't want her. She went to Louisiana to prove to her father that she didn't need a man to take care of her because Carolena didn't want to be married off to someone just to be gotten rid of, she wanted someone to love her.
Carnage lives in the swamps of Louisiana. He is a gargoyle. Carnage lives alone and very deep in the swamps of a supernatural community called Whispers. Carnage is dangerous, non-communicative, more beast than most, until he sees a little human female running through the swamps from 3 men.
I just enjoyed this book so much! Sandra Neele y has put some herself.
I like how she made Carnage so vicious, he hardly talks, most everyone fears him, his description is unsettling, even his name is fearful, but this little spunky female who runs from regular humans can stand up to Carnage with no fears. Lore is an original character, he intrigues me, so I am looking forward to learning more about him. The Dragon Tree feels like it may be important at some point. Enthrall, Murder, Destroy, even the children were such great characters. This is only book one and I am already craving book 2.
July 9, 2018
I hadn't read any gargoyle books before so when I saw that this book was about a gargoyle, I was very excited. I stumbled upon this book by accident and I am glad I did.
For the most part, I enjoyed reading Carnage. I did find the writing to be a bit juvenile at times and slightly underdeveloped but it was still a really fun story. I felt like a good portion of the book was used to set up the secondary characters for their own books in the series so that was a tad disappointing because it took away from fully developing the story with Carnage and Carolena.
I really loved all of the characters, both main and secondary. Whispers, where they all live, sounds pretty cool too but I think a bit more world building would have been beneficial to really make it come alive in my mind. I really like the character names too for the people of Whispers. Names like Carnage, Murder, Destroy, Enthrall, Lore, etc. really tied it together.
This book is a good start for the series. There aren't any other books loaded onto goodreads yet for this series so I will have to try and remember to check back periodically to find out what is next. I definitely want to continue the series. I really like all the characters. Plus I have some guesses as to what will happen next for them.
For the most part, I enjoyed reading Carnage. I did find the writing to be a bit juvenile at times and slightly underdeveloped but it was still a really fun story. I felt like a good portion of the book was used to set up the secondary characters for their own books in the series so that was a tad disappointing because it took away from fully developing the story with Carnage and Carolena.
I really loved all of the characters, both main and secondary. Whispers, where they all live, sounds pretty cool too but I think a bit more world building would have been beneficial to really make it come alive in my mind. I really like the character names too for the people of Whispers. Names like Carnage, Murder, Destroy, Enthrall, Lore, etc. really tied it together.
This book is a good start for the series. There aren't any other books loaded onto goodreads yet for this series so I will have to try and remember to check back periodically to find out what is next. I definitely want to continue the series. I really like all the characters. Plus I have some guesses as to what will happen next for them.
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