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Talen
In a world plagued by constant earthquakes and volcanic debris, people in the valley struggle to survive while those on top of the hill want for nothing.
This is where I come in.
I spend my nights plundering supplies in the walled city of Hilltop, and I trade them to the valley people below. I’m not a thief. I prefer to be known as the head of Lost and Found.
When I discover a beautiful but dangerous competitor in my territory, I also learn she knows more about me than she should. Is she a spy sent by my father, or is she a rebel like me? I don’t trust her, but together we’ll discover secrets that may destroy what’s left of our world.
There have always been those with wealth and those without.
My name is Talen, and I’m here to even the score.
This is where I come in.
I spend my nights plundering supplies in the walled city of Hilltop, and I trade them to the valley people below. I’m not a thief. I prefer to be known as the head of Lost and Found.
When I discover a beautiful but dangerous competitor in my territory, I also learn she knows more about me than she should. Is she a spy sent by my father, or is she a rebel like me? I don’t trust her, but together we’ll discover secrets that may destroy what’s left of our world.
There have always been those with wealth and those without.
My name is Talen, and I’m here to even the score.
450 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 19, 2019
67 people are currently reading
805 people want to read
About the author
Shay Savage
44 books3,799 followersShay Savage is an independent author from Cincinnati, Ohio, where she lives with her family and a variety of household pets. She is an accomplished public speaker and holds the rank of Distinguished Toastmaster from Toastmasters International. Her hobbies include off-roading in her big, yellow Jeep, science fiction in all forms, and soccer. Savage holds a degree in psychology, and she brings a lot of that knowledge into the characters within her stories.
From the author: “It’s my job to make you FEEL. That doesn’t always mean you’ll feel good, but I want my readers to be connected enough to my characters to care.”
Savage’s books many books span a wide variety of topics and sub-genres with deeply flawed characters. From cavemen to addicts to hitmen, you’ll find yourself falling for these seemingly irredeemable characters!
From the author: “It’s my job to make you FEEL. That doesn’t always mean you’ll feel good, but I want my readers to be connected enough to my characters to care.”
Savage’s books many books span a wide variety of topics and sub-genres with deeply flawed characters. From cavemen to addicts to hitmen, you’ll find yourself falling for these seemingly irredeemable characters!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
July 10, 2020
3.5 stars
My favorite thing about Shay Savage's books are that they aren't your typical romance. Any book I pick up of hers isn't going to be like a book I just read. Talen is another unique story. It's a post-apocalyptic read with a touch of romance and it's one I thoroughly enjoyed.
Talen takes place over 100 years after our time. It's a world where over half the US and it's population have been destroyed by earthquakes. There's not a lot left, not enough resources for all, and the country is very much divided. There are the haves, who have plenty, and the have nots, who have nothing. Talen used to be a have, but he's spent his life helping the have nots.
Talen steals from the rich to give to the poor. He runs what he calls his own little 'lost and found'. I loved him and his character. He was strong and brutal when he needed to be, but his heart was always in the right place. He does what he needs to survive and help others survive as well. He meets a girl who changes everything he thinks he knows about the world he's living in and they go on a quest of sorts.
The things he finds out, he almost can't believe it. Aerin shows him things he had no clue about and in that process, he starts to fall for her. I liked Aerin's character, but Talen really stole the show for me. Still, I loved them together. I was anxious to see how this one would end. There were moments I was on pins and needles and was worried about how it would all turn out. I shouldn't have worried though- the ending was great.
Talen was a story that kept my attention from start to finish. I was captivated. I love books that are original and have some twists and turns I don't see coming. This book was another win from Savage and one I'd recommend if you're looking for something other than your typical romance.
My favorite thing about Shay Savage's books are that they aren't your typical romance. Any book I pick up of hers isn't going to be like a book I just read. Talen is another unique story. It's a post-apocalyptic read with a touch of romance and it's one I thoroughly enjoyed.
Talen takes place over 100 years after our time. It's a world where over half the US and it's population have been destroyed by earthquakes. There's not a lot left, not enough resources for all, and the country is very much divided. There are the haves, who have plenty, and the have nots, who have nothing. Talen used to be a have, but he's spent his life helping the have nots.
Talen steals from the rich to give to the poor. He runs what he calls his own little 'lost and found'. I loved him and his character. He was strong and brutal when he needed to be, but his heart was always in the right place. He does what he needs to survive and help others survive as well. He meets a girl who changes everything he thinks he knows about the world he's living in and they go on a quest of sorts.
The things he finds out, he almost can't believe it. Aerin shows him things he had no clue about and in that process, he starts to fall for her. I liked Aerin's character, but Talen really stole the show for me. Still, I loved them together. I was anxious to see how this one would end. There were moments I was on pins and needles and was worried about how it would all turn out. I shouldn't have worried though- the ending was great.
Talen was a story that kept my attention from start to finish. I was captivated. I love books that are original and have some twists and turns I don't see coming. This book was another win from Savage and one I'd recommend if you're looking for something other than your typical romance.
"I'm yours," I whisper in her ear, "completely and totally yours."
March 22, 2019
I have a weakness for dystopian books that have romance thrown in! This book had the perfect balance of a romance that blossoms through very hardcore circumstances. It takes place around the year 2100’s and it is during a time when there isn’t much left of the world. There had been immense earthquakes that caused the earth to crumble, and most people died during that time. What is left of the earth is covered in ash, and earthquakes still come and go. Even with civilization being so small, there are the higher up people that have plenty.. and then there are the ones who have very little to survive on. Talen; our hero spends his time taking from those who have an over abundance... and giving it to the ones who don’t. I fell in love with Talen immediately! He was such a selfless guy and so protective of the people that were thought of as the underdogs who didn’t matter.
This was a fantastic read, and I seem to love the way Shay Savage is able to write a love story that isn’t the most conventional, but it works anyway! When Talen comes across his heroine, they aren’t friends right away. It takes time and circumstance for them to let their walls down and start trusting one another... when they do though, they are perfect for one another. Talen ended up being so vulnerable when it comes to a romantic relationship but it endeared him to me even more!
I could go on all day about this book!!! I highly recommend it to readers who enjoy the dystopian genre. Heck, even if you have never tried it, this would be the perfect story to give it a shot!
This was a fantastic read, and I seem to love the way Shay Savage is able to write a love story that isn’t the most conventional, but it works anyway! When Talen comes across his heroine, they aren’t friends right away. It takes time and circumstance for them to let their walls down and start trusting one another... when they do though, they are perfect for one another. Talen ended up being so vulnerable when it comes to a romantic relationship but it endeared him to me even more!
I could go on all day about this book!!! I highly recommend it to readers who enjoy the dystopian genre. Heck, even if you have never tried it, this would be the perfect story to give it a shot!
February 18, 2019
’TALEN’ is a full length romance/fantasy novel by Shay Savage. MY REVIEW: can also be found on my blog:
➽ KITTY KATS CRAZY ABOUT BOOKS
Twenty seven year old Talen comes from a world that is constantly in battle with the elements plagued by continual earthquakes and volcanic debris that shrouds their little corner of the world they have been given from the people (Thaves) from the hill top.
It's a bit like the haves vs the have nots, the haves have plenty food supply, live up in their mansions with really not a care in the world, whereas the have nots have to scrounge for everything they have whilst living in plastic shelters (aka Plastic Town), many do not survive.
This is where Talen comes into the story, he's what I would call a real life Robin Hood, he sneaks into the haves compound and takes what he can to bring back to camp, he calls it lost and found though. ❝ I'm just the head of lost and found. I find things and return them to their owners. Sometimes the owners are grateful and provide me with thing I've lost in return.❞ Talen is such a gentle soul, but he has had to do numerous deeds to survive. ❝ I have to do what needs to be done to keep the Naughts in Plastictown safe. They count on me to provide them with what they need and to protect them.❞
It's during one of his foraging trips up the hill that he encounters another person encroaching on his turf, this is where Aerin comes into the story. Aerin is like minded, educated, and just trying to get to the bottom of what's happening in their world. These two have such an undeniable chemistry, it sizzled off the pages, I loved their connection.
I've not really stepped into the Dystopian and Post-Apocalyptic genre before, off hand I've probably read 3 including this one. But I must say I did enjoy the ones I have read including this one.
This was completely different to anything I’ve read to date, utterly unique, easy to get into, hard to put down, I read this in one sitting. Definitely spiked my heart rate up a few times with the amount of times they found themselves in a dangerous situation. The only thing I would change is the last chapter felt a wee bit rushed, I wanted to follow their journey as a group, I wanted to know of their struggles, the epilogue answered my questions to a degree but because I was enjoying this so much, I just wanted more, I needed more. Definitely worth a one click.
* Teaser used is off the authors facebook page *
February 14, 2019
What an awesome read! I’ve only read a handful or less of post-apocalyptic books and I’ve enjoyed each of them but this one was incredible!
Talen is the sweetest, kindest hero I think I’ve ever read. He does have a dark streak that runs through him but he struggles against it to the point that you know that isn’t his heart. His soul survival is to provide for the people he’s adopted into his life and the community that he calls home. On one hand he was a bit naïve and on the other he’s fierce and determined. I’ve never met another hero like him and I loved him completely!
Aerin is his perfect companion when it comes to executing a plan. She has the capacity to think things through and make a plan that works. The fact that she tended to take the lead was a novelty to me but it didn’t hinder my enjoyment at all. In fact, I adored the way they complemented each other and worked together.
While this one didn’t have a mind boggling twist to it, it did have enough surprises and action to keep me turning the pages as quickly as I could. The world Ms. Savage created felt very real and it wasn’t too difficult to imagine myself in it. I wouldn’t do well. This does have a political bent to it and I know some readers are going to take exception to it, but I understood the “moral of the story” and accepted it for what it was and will keep my own opinions to myself.
This isn’t a short book, and there’s a lot of information and introspection, but I found it to be evenly paced and never felt bogged down and I never skimmed. I didn’t want to miss a minute of what was going on with this couple. Secondary characters were just as well developed as the hero and heroine but never took over the story. While I didn’t necessarily feel a lot of chemistry between this couple due to having only Talen’s point of view, I was convinced of Talen’s desire and his feelings towards Aerin. And the steam during the smexy times was pretty intense.
Overall, this was a great read that I would highly recommend to anyone who enjoys post-apocalyptic romances.
Hero POV
Safe
Triggers
Talen is the sweetest, kindest hero I think I’ve ever read. He does have a dark streak that runs through him but he struggles against it to the point that you know that isn’t his heart. His soul survival is to provide for the people he’s adopted into his life and the community that he calls home. On one hand he was a bit naïve and on the other he’s fierce and determined. I’ve never met another hero like him and I loved him completely!
Aerin is his perfect companion when it comes to executing a plan. She has the capacity to think things through and make a plan that works. The fact that she tended to take the lead was a novelty to me but it didn’t hinder my enjoyment at all. In fact, I adored the way they complemented each other and worked together.
While this one didn’t have a mind boggling twist to it, it did have enough surprises and action to keep me turning the pages as quickly as I could. The world Ms. Savage created felt very real and it wasn’t too difficult to imagine myself in it. I wouldn’t do well. This does have a political bent to it and I know some readers are going to take exception to it, but I understood the “moral of the story” and accepted it for what it was and will keep my own opinions to myself.
This isn’t a short book, and there’s a lot of information and introspection, but I found it to be evenly paced and never felt bogged down and I never skimmed. I didn’t want to miss a minute of what was going on with this couple. Secondary characters were just as well developed as the hero and heroine but never took over the story. While I didn’t necessarily feel a lot of chemistry between this couple due to having only Talen’s point of view, I was convinced of Talen’s desire and his feelings towards Aerin. And the steam during the smexy times was pretty intense.
Overall, this was a great read that I would highly recommend to anyone who enjoys post-apocalyptic romances.
Hero POV
Safe
Triggers
February 20, 2019
This book was not for me. I never really got into it, and kinda had to force myself to read. I feel like the H was very much a beta hero and there was WAYYYYY too much focus on the hero’s friend Ava. I actually though she had to be the heroine in the beginning because the first like 20% is about her and the hero. Apparently she’s a lesbian, but she’s a prostitute and has sex with men and her and the H sleep in the same bed together and get naked in front of each other. I don’t care if she’s a lesbian or not I don’t want to read that. And SPOILER ALERT....... at one point the H thinks ava is dead and then discovers she’s not and when they reunite, they kiss. In front of the h. Then when they begin to get all huggy and holding hands the h walks away and the H is confused.....the H was an idiot. The reason he thinks Ava is dead is because of a fire and he runs into it to try and save her, ignoring the h and letting her follow him into the deadly fire that they both know has killed people, all to save Ava. I was even more disinterested after this so I basically skimmed to the end. This might not bother other people and maybe I’m being super picky because I was already kinda bored with this book, but oh well it’s my opinion. Lastly, I didn’t really feel any romantic connection between the h and H, everything between them to me just felt like sexual attraction. I sadly really didn’t enjoy this.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 13, 2019
Anyone who knows me knows that I absolutely adore Dystopian and post-apocalyptic romance novels. There is something about the setting and the "end of the world" feel that I am addicted to. The gritty and edgy storyline coupled with the real and raw romance is sexy and so addicting. I loved the world Shay savage created for us. Talen and Aerin were sexy and had great banter and chemistry.
Without giving away any spoilers, this story was mysterious and riveting. I enjoyed the setting of Plastictown and the surrounding areas as Savage created such a fantastic world in her story. The scene setting and world building was on point as I felt as if I was right there along Talen on his "Robin Hood/Lost and Found missions to help the Naughts. The connection to Aerin almost felt palpable. I loved how they met and the back and forth banter they had on their quest for answers.
All in all, this was an enjoyable read. Talen was sexy and sweet with a hint of an edge and was perfectly balanced by Aerin. I look forward to more from this author in the future. 4 stars! ~Ratula
Without giving away any spoilers, this story was mysterious and riveting. I enjoyed the setting of Plastictown and the surrounding areas as Savage created such a fantastic world in her story. The scene setting and world building was on point as I felt as if I was right there along Talen on his "Robin Hood/Lost and Found missions to help the Naughts. The connection to Aerin almost felt palpable. I loved how they met and the back and forth banter they had on their quest for answers.
All in all, this was an enjoyable read. Talen was sexy and sweet with a hint of an edge and was perfectly balanced by Aerin. I look forward to more from this author in the future. 4 stars! ~Ratula
February 19, 2019
I received an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review. Review and blog tour can be found on *Milky Way of Books*
Talen lives in a world set after the apocalypse. When the volcano in Yellowstone exploded, the world changed and the planet destabilized. As Talen tries to survive he will discover that his own past can come back and haunt him and also that love can be found even in the most unexpected places.
Talen was an interesting character. You may see, especially in the cover a badass man but to me, despite his ruthlessness, he was actually quite shy and wanted to find someone who could understand him. The story moves fast and the ending is quite hopeful. Truly I wouldn't mind having other stories set in this world and even interconnecting with each other.
Shay Savage knows how to weave human nature and bringing it from its higher peak to its lowest end.
Talen lives in a world set after the apocalypse. When the volcano in Yellowstone exploded, the world changed and the planet destabilized. As Talen tries to survive he will discover that his own past can come back and haunt him and also that love can be found even in the most unexpected places.
Talen was an interesting character. You may see, especially in the cover a badass man but to me, despite his ruthlessness, he was actually quite shy and wanted to find someone who could understand him. The story moves fast and the ending is quite hopeful. Truly I wouldn't mind having other stories set in this world and even interconnecting with each other.
Shay Savage knows how to weave human nature and bringing it from its higher peak to its lowest end.
February 18, 2019
A Dystopian romance with a very Robin Hood like feel. I rarely venture in this genre, preferring to mortals who roam the good 'ol Earth with human flaws and rippling bodies. But I trust Shay's storytelling skills and so I dared to venture in blind.
The setting is post apocalyptic Plastictown, which is across from the Thaves community, separated by the river. Might as well be the Grand Canyon, seeing the difference of lifestyle, money, luxuries and education between the Naughts & the Thaves.
❝ I have to do what needs to be done to keep the Naughts in Plastictown safe. They count on me to provide them with what they need and to protect them.❞
Enter TALEN who appoints himself as the Leader of Lost & Found. He's the self appointed leveller of the disparity, evening out the field by his small efforts every day. Thief with a heart of Gold.
❝ I'm just the head of lost and found. I find things and return them to their owners. Sometimes the owners are grateful and provide me with thing I've lost in return.❞
On one such nightly forays in the dark, he meets Aerin, his counterpart and she is his equal in everyway. Yet she knows more about him than he knows about her!! Is she one of those spies who come to gauge the Naughts? Cause she seems educated enough.
The sexual chemistry is very hot between TALEN and Aaron and the danger threatens them at every turn. They don't have a moment of peace as every day brings new struggles and fresh challenges
I enjoyed reading it, but would rather stick to present day romances.
4 stars
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The setting is post apocalyptic Plastictown, which is across from the Thaves community, separated by the river. Might as well be the Grand Canyon, seeing the difference of lifestyle, money, luxuries and education between the Naughts & the Thaves.
❝ I have to do what needs to be done to keep the Naughts in Plastictown safe. They count on me to provide them with what they need and to protect them.❞
Enter TALEN who appoints himself as the Leader of Lost & Found. He's the self appointed leveller of the disparity, evening out the field by his small efforts every day. Thief with a heart of Gold.
❝ I'm just the head of lost and found. I find things and return them to their owners. Sometimes the owners are grateful and provide me with thing I've lost in return.❞
On one such nightly forays in the dark, he meets Aerin, his counterpart and she is his equal in everyway. Yet she knows more about him than he knows about her!! Is she one of those spies who come to gauge the Naughts? Cause she seems educated enough.
The sexual chemistry is very hot between TALEN and Aaron and the danger threatens them at every turn. They don't have a moment of peace as every day brings new struggles and fresh challenges
I enjoyed reading it, but would rather stick to present day romances.
4 stars
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Follow us on :
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February 16, 2019
Talen is the baby of Commodity and Specimen. It’s the dystopian world of Commodity and the politics and corruption of Specimen. Combine that with the sweetness found in Judging Books and Win Some Lose Some, and given a slight Robin Hood theme, it had potential to be a wonderful book.
But for me, it was not.
It is super unfortunate because it is hard to find a Shay Savage book that I don’t like, so to not enjoy this one honestly upset me so much. Usually I finish an ARC of hers within hours and at most, a day. This one took days and it got to the point that I was looking forward to reading other books.
It was a really slow start for me. On one hand, there was a wonderful amount of character and world development, which in dystopian books, is huge. But on the other hand, I found it dragging because nothing else was happening. Talen and Aerin do not meet until about 18% in. The beginning also builds up a nice amount of mystery. Up until 60%, I wasn’t loving it. It did pick up in the last chunk.
The characters were great! Talen is such a sweet guy. It honestly was not what I was expecting from this type of book. Shay is also known for her male characters, and this one was not the alpha we always see and love from her. His character makes this one of her sweeter side books. Rather than alpha, he is a virgin. It focuses a lot less on sex and more on the plot. Aerin on the other hand is a very strong female. She is fighting for what she wants and has a sliver of humour making her character fun to read.
All this sounds great for a story. Great world building, great mystery and character development, great characters...I just found the plot boring and predictable. I guessed the ending early on. I had suspicions about what happened to his mother and how hers (who was mentioned often enough) would play into it. The story overall just didn’t do it for me. This is why the 3 star rating. It pains me so greatly to give Shay’s novel only 3 stars, but I give honest opinions. I’m super excited for what she puts out next and I’m sure this one will be a big hit, but for me, it’s one I will pass on.
Thank you to the author for an ARC of this.
But for me, it was not.
It is super unfortunate because it is hard to find a Shay Savage book that I don’t like, so to not enjoy this one honestly upset me so much. Usually I finish an ARC of hers within hours and at most, a day. This one took days and it got to the point that I was looking forward to reading other books.
It was a really slow start for me. On one hand, there was a wonderful amount of character and world development, which in dystopian books, is huge. But on the other hand, I found it dragging because nothing else was happening. Talen and Aerin do not meet until about 18% in. The beginning also builds up a nice amount of mystery. Up until 60%, I wasn’t loving it. It did pick up in the last chunk.
The characters were great! Talen is such a sweet guy. It honestly was not what I was expecting from this type of book. Shay is also known for her male characters, and this one was not the alpha we always see and love from her. His character makes this one of her sweeter side books. Rather than alpha, he is a virgin. It focuses a lot less on sex and more on the plot. Aerin on the other hand is a very strong female. She is fighting for what she wants and has a sliver of humour making her character fun to read.
All this sounds great for a story. Great world building, great mystery and character development, great characters...I just found the plot boring and predictable. I guessed the ending early on. I had suspicions about what happened to his mother and how hers (who was mentioned often enough) would play into it. The story overall just didn’t do it for me. This is why the 3 star rating. It pains me so greatly to give Shay’s novel only 3 stars, but I give honest opinions. I’m super excited for what she puts out next and I’m sure this one will be a big hit, but for me, it’s one I will pass on.
Thank you to the author for an ARC of this.
February 17, 2019
Omg I absolutely love Talen. I enjoy a good post-apocalyptic book and Talen is a must read. Talen will make you swoon hard and you will definitely want him as your next bbf. From the moment I started reading I was hooked. This book and the characters were amazing and the ending was perfect.
I voluntarily reviewed this Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed this Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
June 6, 2020
Can't wait! Love this genre, love thus author.
read in january this year and forgot to review. i enjoyed, but im a fan. a fan on her kids chromebook doing her review, thus no automatic caps or correction of my grammar. sigh. i love my ipads/macs, lol.
read in january this year and forgot to review. i enjoyed, but im a fan. a fan on her kids chromebook doing her review, thus no automatic caps or correction of my grammar. sigh. i love my ipads/macs, lol.
March 9, 2019
This book is the epitome of OW drama. This is more of the relationship between the H and his friend, rather than the romance between him and the h. There's also too much TMI about his past relationships.
February 14, 2019
This story of Talen in a dystopian future is riveting. Shay Savage tells an interesting story of the world in this us and them story line.
February 17, 2019
4 stars
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date February 19, 2019
In a world plagued by constant earthquakes and volcanic debris, people in the valley struggle to survive while those on top of the hill want for nothing.
This is where I come in.
I spend my nights plundering supplies in the walled city of Hilltop, and I trade them to the valley people below. I’m not a thief. I prefer to be known as the head of Lost and Found.
When I discover a beautiful but dangerous competitor in my territory, I also learn she knows more about me than she should. Is she a spy sent by my father, or is she a rebel like me? I don’t trust her, but together we’ll discover secrets that may destroy what’s left of our world.
There have always been those with wealth and those without.
My name is Talen, and I’m here to even the score.
•••••••••••
REVIEW: TALEN by Shay Savage is a post –apocalyptic, dystopian romance story line focusing on twenty-seven year olds Talen and Aerin, survivors in a world gone to h*ll.
Told from first person perspective (Talen) TALEN follows a hundred plus years after the ‘Great Eruption’ in which most of North America fell prey to earthquakes, floods, viruses and death, leaving the survivors divided into two warring camps-the Thaves (the haves), and the Naughts (have nots). Talen lives amongst the Naughts and ‘procures’ the necessities of survival for the people he has learned to call family and friends. Segregated in a valley, in a small encampment known as ‘Plastictown, the Naughts battle the elements, the environment and one another in order to survive. As the resident ‘thief’ and ‘lost and found’ expert, Talen ventures into a world many will never experience, in the hopes of finding the tools and necessary implements in order to survive. Enter Aerin, a young woman whose own adventures find her ‘hunting’ in the land of the Thaves, where upon she will come face to face with her future. What ensues is the building relationship between Talen and Aerin, and the potential fall-out as the Thaves descend upon the remaining survivors in an attempt to take everything and more.
TALEN is a story of betrayal, vengeance, survival and loss; power and contol. Talen and Aerin both have secrets that if revealed would deeply affect their precarious friendships with the remaining Naughts. As the government and Thaves put their plans into action, Talen and Aerin must face a possible future alone or not at all. Working together, Talen and Aerin ensure that the people in power pay for the current situation, and the death of their friends.
There is a large ensemble cast of colorful, energetic and broken characters. We are up close and personal with the people who struggle one day at a time-people who never knew the comforts of living a life without the daily battle to survive. The requisite evil has many faces.
TALEN is a thought-provoking and cautionary tale of what if; what if the world as we know it was destroyed by climate change and the fall-out of man’s destruction of the environment? The premise is imaginative; the characters are eclectic and spirited; the romance is passionate and emotional, without the use of over the top,sexually graphic language and text.
I am not sure if the author has plans for a series but there are a large number of characters and open ended plot points that could use some resolution.
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date February 19, 2019
In a world plagued by constant earthquakes and volcanic debris, people in the valley struggle to survive while those on top of the hill want for nothing.
This is where I come in.
I spend my nights plundering supplies in the walled city of Hilltop, and I trade them to the valley people below. I’m not a thief. I prefer to be known as the head of Lost and Found.
When I discover a beautiful but dangerous competitor in my territory, I also learn she knows more about me than she should. Is she a spy sent by my father, or is she a rebel like me? I don’t trust her, but together we’ll discover secrets that may destroy what’s left of our world.
There have always been those with wealth and those without.
My name is Talen, and I’m here to even the score.
•••••••••••
REVIEW: TALEN by Shay Savage is a post –apocalyptic, dystopian romance story line focusing on twenty-seven year olds Talen and Aerin, survivors in a world gone to h*ll.
Told from first person perspective (Talen) TALEN follows a hundred plus years after the ‘Great Eruption’ in which most of North America fell prey to earthquakes, floods, viruses and death, leaving the survivors divided into two warring camps-the Thaves (the haves), and the Naughts (have nots). Talen lives amongst the Naughts and ‘procures’ the necessities of survival for the people he has learned to call family and friends. Segregated in a valley, in a small encampment known as ‘Plastictown, the Naughts battle the elements, the environment and one another in order to survive. As the resident ‘thief’ and ‘lost and found’ expert, Talen ventures into a world many will never experience, in the hopes of finding the tools and necessary implements in order to survive. Enter Aerin, a young woman whose own adventures find her ‘hunting’ in the land of the Thaves, where upon she will come face to face with her future. What ensues is the building relationship between Talen and Aerin, and the potential fall-out as the Thaves descend upon the remaining survivors in an attempt to take everything and more.
TALEN is a story of betrayal, vengeance, survival and loss; power and contol. Talen and Aerin both have secrets that if revealed would deeply affect their precarious friendships with the remaining Naughts. As the government and Thaves put their plans into action, Talen and Aerin must face a possible future alone or not at all. Working together, Talen and Aerin ensure that the people in power pay for the current situation, and the death of their friends.
There is a large ensemble cast of colorful, energetic and broken characters. We are up close and personal with the people who struggle one day at a time-people who never knew the comforts of living a life without the daily battle to survive. The requisite evil has many faces.
TALEN is a thought-provoking and cautionary tale of what if; what if the world as we know it was destroyed by climate change and the fall-out of man’s destruction of the environment? The premise is imaginative; the characters are eclectic and spirited; the romance is passionate and emotional, without the use of over the top,sexually graphic language and text.
I am not sure if the author has plans for a series but there are a large number of characters and open ended plot points that could use some resolution.
April 7, 2023
I don't know if its possible for Shay Savage to have a hero that I don't like. I loved Talen in this story. He was sweet, kind, strong and kicked *ss. This story is told from only his POV and I think it was better this way. It was an interesting post-apoc story. This takes place about 100 years after an eruption from Yellowstone decimated most of the world.
This story had me guessing about how they would overcome certain challenges. Overall, I really enjoyed this story and loved Talen.
This story had me guessing about how they would overcome certain challenges. Overall, I really enjoyed this story and loved Talen.
February 18, 2019
Shay Savage is one of those authors that can write in any genre and completely own it! There was several times where reading Talen that I felt like it could fit in several genres. We definitely have the romance, but there’s also a ton of action, Dystopian/end of the world, even a bit of fantasy, and even a kind of dark feel occasionally. Shay bounces a bit all over. You’d think Talon would feel a bit scattered, it doesn’t, it feels insanely-well put together. This story is layered-upon-layered. It’s one of the most unique books I’ve read in years.
I really loved Talon. This story is told completely from his POV too. I would have enjoyed getting Aerin’s POV as well but I can’t even imagine how long and deep the story/plot would have been with both their thoughts. I do think this was a bit long, or at least longer than I would have liked. It’s really interesting though because while it’s long and you know it is, it doesn’t feel too long. It feels thoroughly put together and very heavy in the details and plot. I’m not huge into books that tie into politics or dystopian type books. It totally makes sense though since we’ve got a bit of a Robin Hood vibe going on.
Savage’s writing was fanciful and entertaining. The romance between Talon and Aerin was unequivocal. They really complimented each other. Their fun and banter had me fully laughing out loud. I was so impressed with Savage’s writing, the world she built. The symbolism and mental images she painted with just her words was really what kept me entranced in the story!
I received an ARC of this book with the hope that I would leave an Unbiased Opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that... my opinions.
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I really loved Talon. This story is told completely from his POV too. I would have enjoyed getting Aerin’s POV as well but I can’t even imagine how long and deep the story/plot would have been with both their thoughts. I do think this was a bit long, or at least longer than I would have liked. It’s really interesting though because while it’s long and you know it is, it doesn’t feel too long. It feels thoroughly put together and very heavy in the details and plot. I’m not huge into books that tie into politics or dystopian type books. It totally makes sense though since we’ve got a bit of a Robin Hood vibe going on.
Savage’s writing was fanciful and entertaining. The romance between Talon and Aerin was unequivocal. They really complimented each other. Their fun and banter had me fully laughing out loud. I was so impressed with Savage’s writing, the world she built. The symbolism and mental images she painted with just her words was really what kept me entranced in the story!
I received an ARC of this book with the hope that I would leave an Unbiased Opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that... my opinions.
Check out my Blog: Next Book Review
Check out my Facebook Page: Next Book Review Facebook
March 26, 2019
I am such a sucker for an apocalyptic romance. Shay Savage is one of my favorite authors and when I saw this I couldn’t wait to dive in. While the book was excellent I almos feel like it was anti-climatic. Sure there is a lot of story packed in and the plot was intriguing and compelling the book as a whole felt like a lot more buildup than what we got. There’s a hea don’t get me wrong, sometimes I just like to see vengeance persevere.
There is one thing Shay Savage can do like no other and that’s write a novel completely from the male POV and she does it remarkably. I particularly enjoyed it in this book because our hero Talen is a badass but a softie at the same time. He’s suffered, been broken and still never stops being a decent person who always puts others before himself. Our badass hero is even a much to Aerin’s delight.
The novel flowed from chapter to chapter and while it was long it was never wordy or boring. I’m certainly glad I read it and again my apocalyptic kinks were pleasingly provided I still wish for a better ending. Perhaps in my wildest dreams this leaves room for another one?! Hey a girl can dream 😂
There is one thing Shay Savage can do like no other and that’s write a novel completely from the male POV and she does it remarkably. I particularly enjoyed it in this book because our hero Talen is a badass but a softie at the same time. He’s suffered, been broken and still never stops being a decent person who always puts others before himself. Our badass hero is even a much to Aerin’s delight.
The novel flowed from chapter to chapter and while it was long it was never wordy or boring. I’m certainly glad I read it and again my apocalyptic kinks were pleasingly provided I still wish for a better ending. Perhaps in my wildest dreams this leaves room for another one?! Hey a girl can dream 😂
February 14, 2019
Carla's Five Star Review
Well, the world has gone to hell. Earthquakes abound and debris covers the ground. There are thaves (haves) and Naughts (have nots). One group lives high on the hog, while the others scrounge just to survive. Amidst their strife and struggles, there is one man the naughts look to as a hero. Talen. The head of the "lost and found". Talen has a heart of gold, but he also harbors a secret-a secret that has the power to destroy everyone's faith and trust in him.
While out on one of his "quests", Talen meets the beautiful and elusive Aerin. She intrigues him especially when she reveals that she knows who he really is and just where he came from. Together, they unearth secrets that are a threat to their very survival.
OMG! This book is a much needed breath of fresh air! The story line is just as unique as the characters! Through her artful use of words and imagery, this author has created a world that I never want to leave! Simply amazing! I would give it a ten star review if I could!!
An absolute MUST read!
Well, the world has gone to hell. Earthquakes abound and debris covers the ground. There are thaves (haves) and Naughts (have nots). One group lives high on the hog, while the others scrounge just to survive. Amidst their strife and struggles, there is one man the naughts look to as a hero. Talen. The head of the "lost and found". Talen has a heart of gold, but he also harbors a secret-a secret that has the power to destroy everyone's faith and trust in him.
While out on one of his "quests", Talen meets the beautiful and elusive Aerin. She intrigues him especially when she reveals that she knows who he really is and just where he came from. Together, they unearth secrets that are a threat to their very survival.
OMG! This book is a much needed breath of fresh air! The story line is just as unique as the characters! Through her artful use of words and imagery, this author has created a world that I never want to leave! Simply amazing! I would give it a ten star review if I could!!
An absolute MUST read!
February 20, 2019
I never read science fiction, future kinds of stories. But come on this a Shay Savage book. I basically devoured this 5 star story.
Talen is the finder of lost items. He helps the people of Plastictown. He’s well loved and respected until someone comes in his territory, Aerin. Both will embark on a journey to save people.
This was an amazing story, an adventure that kept me on the edge of my seat. It was well written and thought out. I admire this author very much because she switches genre of stories she writes. I’m always amazed with what she comes up with. Bottomline this is a must read.
Standalone told in Talen’s POV only. It comes with an amazing HEA. I strongly recommend this story.
February 19, 2019
I always enjoy the journey Shay takes me on. This one hit close to home with the state of the world today. It’s scary to get a glimpse at what could be our future. It’s definitely a must read for 2019.
~BREAKDOWN OF RATINGS~
Plot~ 4/5
Main Characters~ 4/5
Secondary Characters~ 4/5
The Feels~ 4/5
Pacing~ 4/5
Addictiveness~ 4/5
Theme or Tone~ 4/5
Flow (Writing Style)~ 4/5
Backdrop (World Building)~ 4/5
Originality~ 4/5
Ending~ 4/5
Book Cover~ Fantastic
Series~ Standalone
Source~ Kindle eBook ~ ARC for honest review
Would I read more from this author? Yes
Would I recommend this book? Yes
~BREAKDOWN OF RATINGS~
Plot~ 4/5
Main Characters~ 4/5
Secondary Characters~ 4/5
The Feels~ 4/5
Pacing~ 4/5
Addictiveness~ 4/5
Theme or Tone~ 4/5
Flow (Writing Style)~ 4/5
Backdrop (World Building)~ 4/5
Originality~ 4/5
Ending~ 4/5
Book Cover~ Fantastic
Series~ Standalone
Source~ Kindle eBook ~ ARC for honest review
Would I read more from this author? Yes
Would I recommend this book? Yes
February 17, 2019
Savage has hooked me again!! I requested an early review copy without knowing the blurb and I loved it. I'm a huge fan of the dystopian storyline and Robin Hood like characters. Talen has a past that brought him to Plastictown, he is the head of lost and found. Aerin, a stranger with a secret and a task, forms a partnership with Talen to survive. The people of this quaint valley are special and unique, surviving circumstances that we could probably face one day. While I enjoy her writing I get hung up on the fact she doesn't write about birth control, no condoms or other methods just kinda bugs me.
June 27, 2022
DNF 10%
Tenía tantas ganas de leer un libro como este, distópico, peeeeroooo.... Me perdieron con las vainas esas del abecedario.
Así que, lo siento, pero no!!
Ya luego vi otras reseñas y con lo que dice que pasa con el protagonista y otro personaje secundario (que no me gustó) afianza más mi decisión de no seguir con la lectura
Tenía tantas ganas de leer un libro como este, distópico, peeeeroooo.... Me perdieron con las vainas esas del abecedario.
Así que, lo siento, pero no!!
Ya luego vi otras reseñas y con lo que dice que pasa con el protagonista y otro personaje secundario (que no me gustó) afianza más mi decisión de no seguir con la lectura
February 17, 2019
I didn't know what to expect going into this book. I was pleasantly surprised with the whole story. It really makes you think and then throwing in the sweet romance between Talen and Aerin was just an added bonus. I loved every page of this book and look forward to reading more of Shay's work.
February 19, 2019
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
In a world plagued by constant earthquakes and volcanic debris, people in the valley struggle to survive while those on top of the hill want for nothing. This is where I come in. I spend my nights plundering supplies in the walled city of Hilltop, and I trade them to the valley people below. I'm not a thief. I prefer to be knosiwn as the head of the Lost and Found. When I discover a beautiful but dangerous competitor in my territory, I also learn she knows more about me than she should. Is she a spy send by my father, or is she a rebel like me? I don't trust her, but together we'll discover secrets that may destory what's left of our world. There have always been those with wealth and those without. My name is Talen, and I am here to even the score.
I love a good dystopian book. The whole end of the world as we know it just sucks me in and I really really love one that has me reading from beginning to end without taking a breath. This is Talen. It is nothing short of amazing and I loved every single second of this book. This book has the end of the world as we know it things happening. You have two groups of people , the Thaves or haves and the Naughts or have nots. The Thaves have absolutly everything they could ever want while the Naughts do not have much of anything. They have to scrouge for even the most basic of things. Tht is where Talen comes in. He is the Naughts hero. He is the head of the lost and found and man oh man does this man have a heart of gold. Howver he has this huge secret that could blow everything up and make the people lose faith in him in the blink of an eye. When he is out on one of his quest he meets Aerin. She has him so intrigued but even more so when she tells him she knows who he really is and where he came from. These two are about to unearth secrets and those secrets are a threat to their very survival. I loved every single second of this book and it is one that you do not want to miss. Shay Savage never fails to suck me in to her books and this one has to go down as one of my favorites by her.
In a world plagued by constant earthquakes and volcanic debris, people in the valley struggle to survive while those on top of the hill want for nothing. This is where I come in. I spend my nights plundering supplies in the walled city of Hilltop, and I trade them to the valley people below. I'm not a thief. I prefer to be knosiwn as the head of the Lost and Found. When I discover a beautiful but dangerous competitor in my territory, I also learn she knows more about me than she should. Is she a spy send by my father, or is she a rebel like me? I don't trust her, but together we'll discover secrets that may destory what's left of our world. There have always been those with wealth and those without. My name is Talen, and I am here to even the score.
I love a good dystopian book. The whole end of the world as we know it just sucks me in and I really really love one that has me reading from beginning to end without taking a breath. This is Talen. It is nothing short of amazing and I loved every single second of this book. This book has the end of the world as we know it things happening. You have two groups of people , the Thaves or haves and the Naughts or have nots. The Thaves have absolutly everything they could ever want while the Naughts do not have much of anything. They have to scrouge for even the most basic of things. Tht is where Talen comes in. He is the Naughts hero. He is the head of the lost and found and man oh man does this man have a heart of gold. Howver he has this huge secret that could blow everything up and make the people lose faith in him in the blink of an eye. When he is out on one of his quest he meets Aerin. She has him so intrigued but even more so when she tells him she knows who he really is and where he came from. These two are about to unearth secrets and those secrets are a threat to their very survival. I loved every single second of this book and it is one that you do not want to miss. Shay Savage never fails to suck me in to her books and this one has to go down as one of my favorites by her.
Read
February 26, 2019DNF @43%. Yawn.
February 19, 2019
With this author I know I’ll be in for a surprise, and she doesn’t disappoint with this book. When I first started reading it, I thought it would be a post-apocalyptic Robin Hood type of story, with our hero, Talen, possibly falling for a rival thief. There is more to the story, however, and as it progresses, details of Talen’s background and history are revealed, as is a large conspiracy plot. I won’t give away too much, so you can have the full experience when reading.
Talen is absolutely adorable. This may appear a bit strange, since he’s the hero in a post-apocalyptic romance adventure, but it’s true. He’s a genuinely good guy, trying to help and protect those less fortunate than himself. He’s had to toughen up in order to survive, quite literally, but he doesn’t revel in it. There’s also an innocence about him that’s very endearing.
When he meets Aerin, at first they’re both skeptical about the other, unsure whether they’re trustworthy. Eventually, they realize they’re stuck with each other, at least for the time being. Aerin has a somewhat similar background to Talen, which means he doesn’t have to hide who he is from her. This is a refreshing experience to him, and his relief at being able to confide in someone is near palpable. It also allows them to grow closer, and also to acknowledge their growing attraction, and I found myself rooting for them to act on it. Their budding love story doesn’t detract from their quest; rather, one reinforces the other, and vice versa.
I very much enjoyed the author’s descriptive writing style. In my mind, I could easily picture the devastation of the landscape, the living conditions in Plastictown, and the slumbering mountain complex with all its secrets. I sat with baited breath as Talen and Aerin explored the complex, and had my heart pounding when they were rushing back to Plastictown.
This book is sure to take you on a wild ride!
Talen is absolutely adorable. This may appear a bit strange, since he’s the hero in a post-apocalyptic romance adventure, but it’s true. He’s a genuinely good guy, trying to help and protect those less fortunate than himself. He’s had to toughen up in order to survive, quite literally, but he doesn’t revel in it. There’s also an innocence about him that’s very endearing.
When he meets Aerin, at first they’re both skeptical about the other, unsure whether they’re trustworthy. Eventually, they realize they’re stuck with each other, at least for the time being. Aerin has a somewhat similar background to Talen, which means he doesn’t have to hide who he is from her. This is a refreshing experience to him, and his relief at being able to confide in someone is near palpable. It also allows them to grow closer, and also to acknowledge their growing attraction, and I found myself rooting for them to act on it. Their budding love story doesn’t detract from their quest; rather, one reinforces the other, and vice versa.
I very much enjoyed the author’s descriptive writing style. In my mind, I could easily picture the devastation of the landscape, the living conditions in Plastictown, and the slumbering mountain complex with all its secrets. I sat with baited breath as Talen and Aerin explored the complex, and had my heart pounding when they were rushing back to Plastictown.
This book is sure to take you on a wild ride!
February 18, 2019
Shay Savage has a knack for world building. In Transcendence we were catapulted back in time to the Stone Age (via time travel), with Talen we are transported into a possible, bleak future, not far off on the horizon.
In this dystopian world we are carried through the struggles faced by the people of Plastic Town. We meet our odd hero, Talen. He’s a bit of a mystery. Part Robin Hood, part Bourne.
What’s left of the world is split between the haves and the have nots. Talen carefully skims between the two worlds in an effort to correct the balance. How long can this last though with old forces plotting on the horizon, just out of view.
This is a sometimes funny, romantic, adventure story full of questions and unique characters.
Worth the read.
In this dystopian world we are carried through the struggles faced by the people of Plastic Town. We meet our odd hero, Talen. He’s a bit of a mystery. Part Robin Hood, part Bourne.
What’s left of the world is split between the haves and the have nots. Talen carefully skims between the two worlds in an effort to correct the balance. How long can this last though with old forces plotting on the horizon, just out of view.
This is a sometimes funny, romantic, adventure story full of questions and unique characters.
Worth the read.
February 18, 2019
Not everybody is who you think they are and Talen knows this from experience. As the lost and found expert in plastictown, he has found where he can be who he wants to be. He has made friends who like him for who he is. He helps everyone out and likes the way things are.
When he catches another thief in his territory, he's intrigued, especially after he finds out that she's a girl. Aerin has secrets but so does Talen. Will they be able to put their secrets aside to help each other? Will they be able to figure out what is happening and get the answers that they're looking for before it's too late? Will they both tell each other all of their secrets and have it not make a difference?
When he catches another thief in his territory, he's intrigued, especially after he finds out that she's a girl. Aerin has secrets but so does Talen. Will they be able to put their secrets aside to help each other? Will they be able to figure out what is happening and get the answers that they're looking for before it's too late? Will they both tell each other all of their secrets and have it not make a difference?
February 27, 2019
This book was emotional, exciting and intense! Man what a ride. It reminded me of Lost with a hint of Divergent. I never knew what was going to happen next. I loved the connection between the two main characters. Their attraction was on FIRE!!! Another great read for Shay Savage. Her world building was a beautiful movie in my mind. I loved it!!!
February 19, 2019
Talen
is not my typical go-to story, but I trust Shay Savage to give me a tale worth my time. With
Talen
, she delivers and then some. The setting is a post-apocalyptic world in constant turmoil due to the environmental events of constant earthquakes, volcano eruptions, and the social structure of the wealthy (Thaves) and the poor (Naughts).
Talen has a Robin Hood persona of taking from those who have more than enough and giving to the people who struggle to survive daily. Talen is a hero with a big heart. He puts others first and strives to protect and provide for his people. Aerin is his female counterpart. After they meet they come together with similar goals.
I enjoy the character development and the descriptive way of her world creation. The beginning was a bit of a slow start, to me anyway, but it is so worth it to get to the meat of the story. After a good fifteen percent, the story picks up the pace with the action, betrayal, and romance. There is a slightly political subtext that runs through the book, but I never felt it was preachy.
The story unfolds from Talen’s point of view. Shay Savage has a gift of telling a story from the male perspective that is believable and often makes me forget that a woman is behind the story. The writing is solid and most enjoyable. I love the main characters and the way Ms. Savage develops their personalities and relationships.
I highly recommend Talen even if you are not a fan of dystopia or fantasy. Ms. Savage delivers in so many ways that will captivate anyone who likes a good story with a satisfying ending. Talen is a standalone book that will keep you reading.
Talen has a Robin Hood persona of taking from those who have more than enough and giving to the people who struggle to survive daily. Talen is a hero with a big heart. He puts others first and strives to protect and provide for his people. Aerin is his female counterpart. After they meet they come together with similar goals.
I enjoy the character development and the descriptive way of her world creation. The beginning was a bit of a slow start, to me anyway, but it is so worth it to get to the meat of the story. After a good fifteen percent, the story picks up the pace with the action, betrayal, and romance. There is a slightly political subtext that runs through the book, but I never felt it was preachy.
The story unfolds from Talen’s point of view. Shay Savage has a gift of telling a story from the male perspective that is believable and often makes me forget that a woman is behind the story. The writing is solid and most enjoyable. I love the main characters and the way Ms. Savage develops their personalities and relationships.
I highly recommend Talen even if you are not a fan of dystopia or fantasy. Ms. Savage delivers in so many ways that will captivate anyone who likes a good story with a satisfying ending. Talen is a standalone book that will keep you reading.
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