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The Thorn Chronicles #1
Midnight Angel
Naomi has never tried to run away…until now.
Because now, her father wants her to get married. At sixteen.The deadly cult that had kept her trapped for all these years just got a hundred times worse. Naomi sees no way out until one dark night when the impossible happens. That night, an angel sneaks into her room, kisses her and opens her eyes to a whole new, supernatural power. Using her newfound power, she fights back and discovers that she’s not the only one with a secret….
Find out if good really can defeat evil….
This title previously published as Kissed: The Thorn Chronicles Book 1.
Because now, her father wants her to get married. At sixteen.The deadly cult that had kept her trapped for all these years just got a hundred times worse. Naomi sees no way out until one dark night when the impossible happens. That night, an angel sneaks into her room, kisses her and opens her eyes to a whole new, supernatural power. Using her newfound power, she fights back and discovers that she’s not the only one with a secret….
Find out if good really can defeat evil….
This title previously published as Kissed: The Thorn Chronicles Book 1.
288 pages, Paperback
First published April 21, 2014
1510 people are currently reading
2858 people want to read
About the author
Kimberly Loth
94 books988 followersKimberly Loth can’t decide where she wants to settle down. She’s lived in Michigan, Illinois, Missouri, Utah, California, Oregon, and South Carolina. She finally decided to make the leap and leave the U.S. behind for a few years. Currently, she lives in Cairo, Egypt with her husband and two kids.
She is a high school math teacher by day (please don’t hold that against her) and YA author by night. She loves romantic movies, chocolate, roses, and crazy adventures. Kissed is her first novel.
She is a high school math teacher by day (please don’t hold that against her) and YA author by night. She loves romantic movies, chocolate, roses, and crazy adventures. Kissed is her first novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 265 reviews
June 8, 2014
Oddly compelling since I read to the end to see what happened, but the romances made me sick. This has: instalove, love triangles, possessive guys who do things to girls when they sleep - including making them unable to move while they kiss them, which is basically one step shy of rape (plus painting a girl's toes while she sleeps? ew). When the good guys are sexist controlling jerks with harems (yes, they call them that) it's very hard to root for them. Ugh ugh ugh.
March 11, 2016
I recieved this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. And an honest review ye shall get. Haha.
Okay... I just need a second to breathe...
Alrighty, down to business.
I FREAKING LOVE THIS BOOK! HARDLY ANOTHER BOOK CAN COMPARE!
The whole storyline was captivating and made me not want to put it down. There were so many twists and turns that I was fully invested and needed to uncover.
And the brothers... let me tell you, totally swoon worthy! Oh my gosh!
By the way, I'm team Puck all the way.
I also loved the fact of which the author kept us (the readers) totally ignorant to what was going to happen next. Everything was a surprise pretty much. This book is one of the first books I've read where I wasn't able to figure out what's going to happen.
And oh man... let me just talk about the visuals the author gives, completely chrystal clear. Nothing was confusing.
I could go on and on about how rant worthy and fandom worthy this book is but I think you get the point. This book is a sensational, swoon worthy, whirlwind that keeps you guessing till the very end.
Highly recommended.
Okay... I just need a second to breathe...
Alrighty, down to business.
I FREAKING LOVE THIS BOOK! HARDLY ANOTHER BOOK CAN COMPARE!
The whole storyline was captivating and made me not want to put it down. There were so many twists and turns that I was fully invested and needed to uncover.
And the brothers... let me tell you, totally swoon worthy! Oh my gosh!
By the way, I'm team Puck all the way.
I also loved the fact of which the author kept us (the readers) totally ignorant to what was going to happen next. Everything was a surprise pretty much. This book is one of the first books I've read where I wasn't able to figure out what's going to happen.
And oh man... let me just talk about the visuals the author gives, completely chrystal clear. Nothing was confusing.
I could go on and on about how rant worthy and fandom worthy this book is but I think you get the point. This book is a sensational, swoon worthy, whirlwind that keeps you guessing till the very end.
Highly recommended.
May 6, 2014
Amazing Story!Kimberly Loth is a truly inspired writer and I couldn't put this story down for a second! I was drawn in from the very first by the darkness and the awfulness of poor Naomi's life. Trapped by abusive parents and living in a cult world she does finds anything little thing to bring happiness into her little world. For years she only had her grandmother and then the roses they trended together but now there is some strange boy who sneaks into her room at night to kiss her.
Naomi has never known happiness like when he comes to kiss her and would do anything to be able to stay with him forever. but who is he? and why doesn't he stay?
Kimberly Loth is a incredible writer and this book kept me on the edge of my seat time and time again! the ending totally threw me and I so can't wait to read more to this story! Puck and Kai were defiantly the most interesting characters in the story but I would have to say I am rooting for Puck as he was defiantly my fav as I have a soft spot for the Gothic bad boy!..LOL
This is a book that none of you want to miss out on! TBR and get your copy today!!!!
Naomi has never known happiness like when he comes to kiss her and would do anything to be able to stay with him forever. but who is he? and why doesn't he stay?
Kimberly Loth is a incredible writer and this book kept me on the edge of my seat time and time again! the ending totally threw me and I so can't wait to read more to this story! Puck and Kai were defiantly the most interesting characters in the story but I would have to say I am rooting for Puck as he was defiantly my fav as I have a soft spot for the Gothic bad boy!..LOL
This is a book that none of you want to miss out on! TBR and get your copy today!!!!
May 2, 2014
(Source: I received a digital copy of this book for free on a read-to-review basis. Thanks to YA Bound Book Tours and author Kimberly Loth.)
16-year-old Naomi is not happy when her father arranges a marriage for her against her wishes. But if she doesn’t comply, he’ll kill her.
Can Naomi escape her arranged marriage? And where will she go if she does?
This story started off slow but okay, but then it took turn for the worst.
Naomi was an okay character, and I felt sorry for her and the position she found herself in. The men in her life were just awful, and the way they treated her was shocking.
The storyline in this was okay until we got to the half-way mark, then things just got silly. I found the whole thing unbelievable, and cliché and I really didn’t want to keep on reading. From then on we got info-dump after info-dump, and I just didn’t enjoy the story at all.
The setting in this was also quite confusing. The setting didn’t feel contemporary, but then it turned out it was, and there wasn’t enough background on the community in which Naomi was raised.
There was some romance, but I wasn’t impressed, and when the characters in question began professing their undying love I wanted to vomit.
The ending was okay, although not everything was wrapped up, I really wouldn’t want to read a sequel though. I also have to question why the girl on the cover doesn’t have green hair (as that is what Naomi ends up with!)
Overall; not for me,
4.5 out of 10.
16-year-old Naomi is not happy when her father arranges a marriage for her against her wishes. But if she doesn’t comply, he’ll kill her.
Can Naomi escape her arranged marriage? And where will she go if she does?
This story started off slow but okay, but then it took turn for the worst.
Naomi was an okay character, and I felt sorry for her and the position she found herself in. The men in her life were just awful, and the way they treated her was shocking.
The storyline in this was okay until we got to the half-way mark, then things just got silly. I found the whole thing unbelievable, and cliché and I really didn’t want to keep on reading. From then on we got info-dump after info-dump, and I just didn’t enjoy the story at all.
The setting in this was also quite confusing. The setting didn’t feel contemporary, but then it turned out it was, and there wasn’t enough background on the community in which Naomi was raised.
There was some romance, but I wasn’t impressed, and when the characters in question began professing their undying love I wanted to vomit.
The ending was okay, although not everything was wrapped up, I really wouldn’t want to read a sequel though. I also have to question why the girl on the cover doesn’t have green hair (as that is what Naomi ends up with!)
Overall; not for me,
4.5 out of 10.
March 31, 2014
KISSED is a wild ride that takes the reader form a small town in Missouri to the bright lights of the big city.
Loth has created a strong character in Naomi, who fights to free herself from the oppression of her father, all the while finding not only herself but the importance of friends, true family, and love...with some unexpected twists along the way.
This is a story to read over and over again.
Loth has created a strong character in Naomi, who fights to free herself from the oppression of her father, all the while finding not only herself but the importance of friends, true family, and love...with some unexpected twists along the way.
This is a story to read over and over again.
May 5, 2014
***I was gifted a copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review***
Naomi's world is one where women are submissive to their men. The rules are strict and anyone who breaks them faces extreme and severe punishment.
The one joy in Naomi's life are her roses and her glasshouse is her safe haven.
Facing a future that turns her stomach, Naomi begins to dream of a stranger's kiss. She gains the inner strength she needs to change the future her father has planned for her.
Wow!
That was my first thought when I finished reading 'Kissed'. My second thought was "How am I gonna put this review into words?!?" For the past two days I have been going over and over in my head what to say to convey what I thought of this book and I'm still not sure I'm gonna do it justice.
I drew myself a lovely hot bubble bath the other night. Taking my Kindle Fire HD with me, I lay back amongst the bubbles and stepped into the world of 'Kissed'. I got totally engrossed in the story, so much so that when the text message alert beeped on my phone my KFHD nearly got a bath of it's own :o I was surprised to find that an hour and a half had passed by. Wrapping myself in my nice pink fluffy towels, I reclined on the couch and carried on reading. Before I knew it, the story had ended, it was the early a.m and all I could think was "Wow!"
I actually felt good when I reached the end of the book. By good, I mean I felt warm inside. I had a little smile on my face and I felt good!! (Did I mention that already? :D )
From the onset I quite liked Naomi. I pitied her too because of the lifestyle enforced on her and the fact that she never fully understood what caused the sudden change in her father, but she still had spirit and that I admired.
The way different kinds of association (the roses, people, emotions and smells) were interwoven into the main fabric of the story. It was so well written that I could also imagine the smells as I read.
Kimberly Loth has written a book that kicks tarts her new series with some twists and turns that will keep the reader guessing as to what will happen next.
A massive 5 Shamrocks for this series starter, and well deserved it is :D
Naomi's world is one where women are submissive to their men. The rules are strict and anyone who breaks them faces extreme and severe punishment.
The one joy in Naomi's life are her roses and her glasshouse is her safe haven.
Facing a future that turns her stomach, Naomi begins to dream of a stranger's kiss. She gains the inner strength she needs to change the future her father has planned for her.
Wow!
That was my first thought when I finished reading 'Kissed'. My second thought was "How am I gonna put this review into words?!?" For the past two days I have been going over and over in my head what to say to convey what I thought of this book and I'm still not sure I'm gonna do it justice.
I drew myself a lovely hot bubble bath the other night. Taking my Kindle Fire HD with me, I lay back amongst the bubbles and stepped into the world of 'Kissed'. I got totally engrossed in the story, so much so that when the text message alert beeped on my phone my KFHD nearly got a bath of it's own :o I was surprised to find that an hour and a half had passed by. Wrapping myself in my nice pink fluffy towels, I reclined on the couch and carried on reading. Before I knew it, the story had ended, it was the early a.m and all I could think was "Wow!"
I actually felt good when I reached the end of the book. By good, I mean I felt warm inside. I had a little smile on my face and I felt good!! (Did I mention that already? :D )
From the onset I quite liked Naomi. I pitied her too because of the lifestyle enforced on her and the fact that she never fully understood what caused the sudden change in her father, but she still had spirit and that I admired.
The way different kinds of association (the roses, people, emotions and smells) were interwoven into the main fabric of the story. It was so well written that I could also imagine the smells as I read.
Kimberly Loth has written a book that kicks tarts her new series with some twists and turns that will keep the reader guessing as to what will happen next.
A massive 5 Shamrocks for this series starter, and well deserved it is :D
March 31, 2014
"Birthdays are supposed to be special like my Kaiser Wilhelm rosebushes. They bloom once a year, huge violet and crimson cups full to bursting with petals. When I part the petals with my nose and inhale, I go weak in the knees from the fruity perfume. But my birthdays are more like the daisies that grow alongside the roses. Ignored."
And so starts the story of Naomi, the girl without birthday celebrations. The girl who grows roses in a backyard greenhouse, instead of hanging at the mall with friends. Because Naomi has no friends, but it's not by choice. Her entire life, even the color of her hair, is regulated by her father and his extreme religion, but when he announces a surprise wedding -- her own -- can Naomi find a way to leave all she's ever known?
Loth takes us on an emotional journey of fleeing oppression and abuse in small town, USA, onto a road paved with healing and discovery. But, as with many good stories, not everything is as it seems. Nor is every stop safe.
And so starts the story of Naomi, the girl without birthday celebrations. The girl who grows roses in a backyard greenhouse, instead of hanging at the mall with friends. Because Naomi has no friends, but it's not by choice. Her entire life, even the color of her hair, is regulated by her father and his extreme religion, but when he announces a surprise wedding -- her own -- can Naomi find a way to leave all she's ever known?
Loth takes us on an emotional journey of fleeing oppression and abuse in small town, USA, onto a road paved with healing and discovery. But, as with many good stories, not everything is as it seems. Nor is every stop safe.
June 13, 2014
http://mouseheadandtales.weebly.com/1...
I absolutely had a great time reading Kissed by Kinberly Loth! It earned each of the 5 stars that Mousehead and Tales is giving it, along with a ton if recommendations to just about anyone who crosses my path.
This book grabs you from the first moments and draws you into a horror story if a life that belongs to 15, going on 16 yr. old Naomi.
With her parents involved in a patririchal , extremist, racist , church she is subjected to punishments and humiliations that are just disgusting.
The only bright side to her life is her greenhouse where she goes to get away from it all and tend her roses.
After a particularly awful 16th birthday Naomi realizes that she has to find away out if this life. A mysterious boy starts entering her in the dreaming and leaving proof that while she may have thought he was just a dream, he was real!
Naomi breaks a cardinal rule and becomes friends with a girl that she meets at school. After confiding about an Aunt she just found out she had she dreams of leaking her awful life in Arkansas along with the radical church , her disgusting future husband and going to stay with her Aunt Ginny in Las Vegas.
I don't want to ruin the whole review with spoilers but I will tell you that once Naomi gets to Vegas it's not just the scenery that changes.
Enter the twists and turns that will have you wondering where the book is going to lead you next . There are dreamy boys , evil treacherous characters that pop out of nowhere . To top it all of there's Naomi. A very likeable leading character who is drawn to two completely delicious boys who have more than just wanting her as their own in common.
The author made Naomi and her beloved grandmother ( R.I.P.) lovers of roses. Throughout the book you are taught about a ton of breeds and hybrids that really suit the story and it seems when you look into it you really could find a rise to describe any person, feeling, or emotion you're looking for.
This book is a bouquet of fantastic storytelling , lovely imagery , and exciting turn paging moments that leave you no choice but to keep on reading ! I highly reccomend "Kissed" by Kimberly Loth and would suggest you hop into goodreads, amazon, or wherever you get your books and pick this one up ASAP :) check back I'm hoping to get Kimberly Loth to do a feature soon and I'll keep you posted with links to find her with just a tap!
If you have any intrest in checking out her Goodreads profile you can do so just by typing in Kissed or Kimberly Loth.
As always thanks for checking in and be sure to check back cause we have to s of virtual tours, cover reveals, sneak peaks and more coming up... A ton of swag included:) be well and keep those noses where they belong... In a book!- Mousehead & tales :)
I absolutely had a great time reading Kissed by Kinberly Loth! It earned each of the 5 stars that Mousehead and Tales is giving it, along with a ton if recommendations to just about anyone who crosses my path.
This book grabs you from the first moments and draws you into a horror story if a life that belongs to 15, going on 16 yr. old Naomi.
With her parents involved in a patririchal , extremist, racist , church she is subjected to punishments and humiliations that are just disgusting.
The only bright side to her life is her greenhouse where she goes to get away from it all and tend her roses.
After a particularly awful 16th birthday Naomi realizes that she has to find away out if this life. A mysterious boy starts entering her in the dreaming and leaving proof that while she may have thought he was just a dream, he was real!
Naomi breaks a cardinal rule and becomes friends with a girl that she meets at school. After confiding about an Aunt she just found out she had she dreams of leaking her awful life in Arkansas along with the radical church , her disgusting future husband and going to stay with her Aunt Ginny in Las Vegas.
I don't want to ruin the whole review with spoilers but I will tell you that once Naomi gets to Vegas it's not just the scenery that changes.
Enter the twists and turns that will have you wondering where the book is going to lead you next . There are dreamy boys , evil treacherous characters that pop out of nowhere . To top it all of there's Naomi. A very likeable leading character who is drawn to two completely delicious boys who have more than just wanting her as their own in common.
The author made Naomi and her beloved grandmother ( R.I.P.) lovers of roses. Throughout the book you are taught about a ton of breeds and hybrids that really suit the story and it seems when you look into it you really could find a rise to describe any person, feeling, or emotion you're looking for.
This book is a bouquet of fantastic storytelling , lovely imagery , and exciting turn paging moments that leave you no choice but to keep on reading ! I highly reccomend "Kissed" by Kimberly Loth and would suggest you hop into goodreads, amazon, or wherever you get your books and pick this one up ASAP :) check back I'm hoping to get Kimberly Loth to do a feature soon and I'll keep you posted with links to find her with just a tap!
If you have any intrest in checking out her Goodreads profile you can do so just by typing in Kissed or Kimberly Loth.
As always thanks for checking in and be sure to check back cause we have to s of virtual tours, cover reveals, sneak peaks and more coming up... A ton of swag included:) be well and keep those noses where they belong... In a book!- Mousehead & tales :)
April 22, 2014
*I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review*
So, I've been reading lots of books on how to write better novels. The first thing all of them say is that you must create a very compelling and engaging situation in the first pages. You must make the reader care about the main character no matter if he/she is a hero or a villain.
Kimberly Loth nailed that in her debut novel Kissed. From the first page I was completely hooked to the story. I felt for Naomi, a sweet girl who was trapped in a abusive life. Despite all the injustice she suffered, she still held on to hope that things would get better.
The paranormal aspect of the story was one I've never seen before, very original. There's plenty of romance and cute boys.
In the love triangle matter I'm totally team Puck. Due to the way the plot went, we don't know much about Kai so I'm looking forward to get to know him. But I think I'll always be team Puck.
Overall, I recommend Kissed to anyone looking for a new kind of paranormal series.
So, I've been reading lots of books on how to write better novels. The first thing all of them say is that you must create a very compelling and engaging situation in the first pages. You must make the reader care about the main character no matter if he/she is a hero or a villain.
Kimberly Loth nailed that in her debut novel Kissed. From the first page I was completely hooked to the story. I felt for Naomi, a sweet girl who was trapped in a abusive life. Despite all the injustice she suffered, she still held on to hope that things would get better.
The paranormal aspect of the story was one I've never seen before, very original. There's plenty of romance and cute boys.
In the love triangle matter I'm totally team Puck. Due to the way the plot went, we don't know much about Kai so I'm looking forward to get to know him. But I think I'll always be team Puck.
Overall, I recommend Kissed to anyone looking for a new kind of paranormal series.
April 3, 2014
WOW! This book is so good I couldn't stop reading---I read all night to finish it, then I read it again! Such an exciting story, and I felt completely drawn to the characters. I would recommend this book to anyone, the best thing I've read in a LONG time! I can't stop thinking about it! I can't wait for the sequel!
KissedKimberly Loth
KissedKimberly Loth
April 24, 2017
I feel a little bit eh about this book?
It reminds me of a few books I didn't love or really like...
The writing style is weird, the story line is quirky and overall it feels like this book is some quirky mix of boths.
This book is good I feel like giving it lower than a 3 is underselling it a little bit but this isn't a book I'd reach for again nor would I search out the next book to this series. Its different I'll give it that but not for me.
It reminds me of a few books I didn't love or really like...
The writing style is weird, the story line is quirky and overall it feels like this book is some quirky mix of boths.
This book is good I feel like giving it lower than a 3 is underselling it a little bit but this isn't a book I'd reach for again nor would I search out the next book to this series. Its different I'll give it that but not for me.
March 31, 2014
This is a page-turner from the beginning. Naomi's growth throughout the story draws you in, and the romance will leave you fanning yourself. Loth does a great job of creating a sympathetic heroine who, in learning to love also learns to fight for that love in a powerful way.
April 2, 2014
This book was an attention getter from the start. I had a hard time putting it down. The book was original and left me wanting more! I'm ready for book #2.
July 5, 2018
Trigger Warning: Consent issues, emotional manipulation issues, physical and emotional abuse, torture. Love triangle and instant-love. Don't know if I will finish series.
April 4, 2014
I received this book in return for an honest review.
thank you thank you THANK YOU Kimberly loth for writing this book!!! this book is absolutely amazing!!
the writing is beautiful and I loved the constant references to roses throughout the book. also, I loved the many hair styles that the main character (Naomi) had.
ok, so the book is about a girl named Naomi who lives with abusive parents and is part of a violent, radical religious cult. she cannot cut her hair, wear makeup, show hardly any part of her skin or do anything against the wishes of her parents as well as not being able to express her own opinion.
after Naomi is told that she must marry a bully at her school, the foul Dwayne, she starts to get visits from a strange boy who comes in the night to kiss her and takes roses from her greenhouse (Naomi has an amazing passion for roses) and puts them in her room. the same boy also leaves her paralysed so that she cannot move as he kisses her and heals the wounds her father had given her. at the same time a boy at school starts to look out for her and protects her from her fiance, Dwayne.
at the same time, Naomi makes a friend named Ruth. something she is forbidden to do.
one day, her parents disappear and Naomi is taken to live with Dwayne and his father as her foster family. it turns out that her parents have murdered three people and are in custody.
however, Naomi begins to discover a dark power within herself that her roses and the strange boy that kisses her at night (the same boy that saves her at school) help her to master and develop.
the boy helps her to escape Dwayne and she makes it to Vegas where her aunty lives. her aunty takes her in and helps her create a new life. at the same time she meets new people and discovers a whole new, paranormal world that helps her to learn more about the boy that saved her...and her roses.
the only criticism I would have is that this book has WAY to much kissing in it, but that's not really a bad thing... :D
this book is packed full of raw emotion and beautiful language. the story is amazing; I don't know how it could get any better!
I can't wait for the second book to come out!!!
thank you thank you THANK YOU Kimberly loth for writing this book!!! this book is absolutely amazing!!
the writing is beautiful and I loved the constant references to roses throughout the book. also, I loved the many hair styles that the main character (Naomi) had.
ok, so the book is about a girl named Naomi who lives with abusive parents and is part of a violent, radical religious cult. she cannot cut her hair, wear makeup, show hardly any part of her skin or do anything against the wishes of her parents as well as not being able to express her own opinion.
after Naomi is told that she must marry a bully at her school, the foul Dwayne, she starts to get visits from a strange boy who comes in the night to kiss her and takes roses from her greenhouse (Naomi has an amazing passion for roses) and puts them in her room. the same boy also leaves her paralysed so that she cannot move as he kisses her and heals the wounds her father had given her. at the same time a boy at school starts to look out for her and protects her from her fiance, Dwayne.
at the same time, Naomi makes a friend named Ruth. something she is forbidden to do.
one day, her parents disappear and Naomi is taken to live with Dwayne and his father as her foster family. it turns out that her parents have murdered three people and are in custody.
however, Naomi begins to discover a dark power within herself that her roses and the strange boy that kisses her at night (the same boy that saves her at school) help her to master and develop.
the boy helps her to escape Dwayne and she makes it to Vegas where her aunty lives. her aunty takes her in and helps her create a new life. at the same time she meets new people and discovers a whole new, paranormal world that helps her to learn more about the boy that saved her...and her roses.
the only criticism I would have is that this book has WAY to much kissing in it, but that's not really a bad thing... :D
this book is packed full of raw emotion and beautiful language. the story is amazing; I don't know how it could get any better!
I can't wait for the second book to come out!!!
May 7, 2014
Kissed begins like a modern day fairy tale; a girl who needs rescuing from her unhappy life meets the her ideal young man in her dreams. The novel also has the traditional good versus evil plot line with added romance, but to say Kissed is only these things is to simplify a beautifully formed and articulately written story. Kimberly Loth's novel is made more compelling and unique through the added fantasy story-line.
Despite the dire situation Naomi is in, she is a tenacious character who the reader immediately feels an empathetic connection with. The reader wills her to escape from the abusive cult she is forced to live in by her parents. Naomi clings to the hope given her by the roses she grows; they are a strong motif in the story, each flower representing certain characters and the emotions of our heroine.
Although Kissed has a love-triangle it is essential to the development of the story; the relationships between Naomi, Kai and Puck are the means by which significant traits about the secret race of The Guardians are revealed. Naomi suffers much angst about the romance in her life and I confess that around halfway through the novel I had to look at the final pages to see what her decision would be. Although at that point I did not react, by the time I reached the end I was ready to slap Naomi, disappointed in her choice!
Kissed is a wonderful book, it's story able to appeal to readers of different genres. I am very excited to see how Kimberly Loth evolves the plot in The Thorn Chronicles sequel.
Despite the dire situation Naomi is in, she is a tenacious character who the reader immediately feels an empathetic connection with. The reader wills her to escape from the abusive cult she is forced to live in by her parents. Naomi clings to the hope given her by the roses she grows; they are a strong motif in the story, each flower representing certain characters and the emotions of our heroine.
Although Kissed has a love-triangle it is essential to the development of the story; the relationships between Naomi, Kai and Puck are the means by which significant traits about the secret race of The Guardians are revealed. Naomi suffers much angst about the romance in her life and I confess that around halfway through the novel I had to look at the final pages to see what her decision would be. Although at that point I did not react, by the time I reached the end I was ready to slap Naomi, disappointed in her choice!
Kissed is a wonderful book, it's story able to appeal to readers of different genres. I am very excited to see how Kimberly Loth evolves the plot in The Thorn Chronicles sequel.
May 7, 2014
It seems like normally I get one really good book, then one really crappy one, then a good one again - etc. But the last few books I have read have been exceptionally good. I keep waiting for the crappy one, but it hasn’t come (thank goodness). I was immediately sucked into Naomi’s world - I meant to just read the first couple of pages when I went to bed a few nights ago, but ended up reading half the book! I was once again up until the wee hours of the night, unable to tear myself away. The next day at work I read walking down the halls to the bathroom and back and forth from my car. I just couldn’t put it down!
There were a couple of times during the book where I was wondering why the characters acted a certain way… some holes in the plotline, but nothing that detracted too much from the story. Also, the ending surprised me, I probably wouldn’t have gone in that direction… but it still worked. I also didn't realize that Naomi's father was "The Master" (the leader of the cult) until I just went back and re-read the synopsis. I must have missed that somewhere... My main complaint with this book was that I have to wait for the next one in the series!
Ugh. If I keep getting addicting books like this to review, I’m NEVER getting any sleep…
There were a couple of times during the book where I was wondering why the characters acted a certain way… some holes in the plotline, but nothing that detracted too much from the story. Also, the ending surprised me, I probably wouldn’t have gone in that direction… but it still worked. I also didn't realize that Naomi's father was "The Master" (the leader of the cult) until I just went back and re-read the synopsis. I must have missed that somewhere... My main complaint with this book was that I have to wait for the next one in the series!
Ugh. If I keep getting addicting books like this to review, I’m NEVER getting any sleep…
September 24, 2014
I really enjoyed Kissed, it reminded me of the first Virginia Andrews books I read growing up, but had the added spice of the paranormal that I read now.
It’s definitely a teen read, but was still very enjoyable to read as an adult. I love a good transformation story, and this has the feel of modern fairy tale.
From a writer’s perspective, the plot was well paced and, as it was first person, it was easy to identify with the protagonist. It was also nice to be in a world where the reader finds out important information along with main character, rather than before them, which can be frustrating.
The front cover is very pretty, but could do with a supernatural element in there, so it represented the book better. Also Naomi has either blonde or green hair throughout the story, and the girl on the front is brunette, although her true colour, maybe the green would have given it an eye catching edge?
Overall I’d give Kissed 5 out 5 stars, well worth reading whether you’re a teen or an adult.
It’s definitely a teen read, but was still very enjoyable to read as an adult. I love a good transformation story, and this has the feel of modern fairy tale.
From a writer’s perspective, the plot was well paced and, as it was first person, it was easy to identify with the protagonist. It was also nice to be in a world where the reader finds out important information along with main character, rather than before them, which can be frustrating.
The front cover is very pretty, but could do with a supernatural element in there, so it represented the book better. Also Naomi has either blonde or green hair throughout the story, and the girl on the front is brunette, although her true colour, maybe the green would have given it an eye catching edge?
Overall I’d give Kissed 5 out 5 stars, well worth reading whether you’re a teen or an adult.
May 24, 2014
Tiffany's Review:
WOW! What an intense and intriguing book! I could not put it down because I was so captivated by the story! The whole time I was thinking, what in the world happen to her parents? And why would she not run away?! Naomi finds herself questioning what happen after her eighth birthday...she is now 16 and her parents have joined some kind of cult.... that is AWFUL! I had tears in my eyes when she described the things they would do to those poor girls. It all changed with a kiss! Naomi was not sure if it was a dream or real until she finally meet Kai! Naomi decides to run away to her aunts in Las Vegas. When she gets to Vegas she meets Puck! I kept switching from team Kai to team Puck....they both had so many pros and cons....I am still torn!!!! Will her parents find her?! What in the world is really going on?! I highly recommend this book!!! Great story and wonderfully written! Loved it! I give it 5 stars!
WOW! What an intense and intriguing book! I could not put it down because I was so captivated by the story! The whole time I was thinking, what in the world happen to her parents? And why would she not run away?! Naomi finds herself questioning what happen after her eighth birthday...she is now 16 and her parents have joined some kind of cult.... that is AWFUL! I had tears in my eyes when she described the things they would do to those poor girls. It all changed with a kiss! Naomi was not sure if it was a dream or real until she finally meet Kai! Naomi decides to run away to her aunts in Las Vegas. When she gets to Vegas she meets Puck! I kept switching from team Kai to team Puck....they both had so many pros and cons....I am still torn!!!! Will her parents find her?! What in the world is really going on?! I highly recommend this book!!! Great story and wonderfully written! Loved it! I give it 5 stars!
January 2, 2017
I didn't enjoy this at all. I was really confused about the community Naomi was living in. Looking back on the synopsis, it did mention that this was a cult, but I hadn't really remembered that key component going into this. The men in this cult were so horrible to Naomi, to the point where I didn't enjoy what was going on at all. There was so much going on with the cult, that when the paranormal stuff came into play, I just thought it was a little too much. I think this book could have worked just fine if it focused on Naomi coming to terms with that fact that the cult isn't the right place for her. I've also never been too big a fan of the whole love triangle thing, so that was just one more thing for me to not enjoy about this book. This sounded like it could have been really good, but it just wasn't for me.
October 27, 2014
Received free copy for honest review.
The first half of this story, the dark half, describing Naomi’s bleak home life was disturbing and difficult to read due to the graphic portrayal and level of violent abuse she suffered at the hands of her father. It was however beautifully written and I felt drawn into the character’s emotional journey.
I loved the unique way the author used roses as a link through the story. Roses play a large role in the story, including Naomi’s penchant of matching each person she meets, based on their character and her emotional connection to them, to a particular rose.
Full review: http://crushingcinders.com/?p=517
*I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review*
The first half of this story, the dark half, describing Naomi’s bleak home life was disturbing and difficult to read due to the graphic portrayal and level of violent abuse she suffered at the hands of her father. It was however beautifully written and I felt drawn into the character’s emotional journey.
I loved the unique way the author used roses as a link through the story. Roses play a large role in the story, including Naomi’s penchant of matching each person she meets, based on their character and her emotional connection to them, to a particular rose.
Full review: http://crushingcinders.com/?p=517
*I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review*
April 9, 2014
Naomi Aren's life is horrible and gets even worse when she is arranged to marry someone she doesn't want by the age of sixteen, what will happen with the mystery boy who kisses her every night?
I really loved this book, it was refreshing and interesting, and I definitely enjoyed reading it!
What I really loved about this book is the new paranormal theme- no more vampires and werewolves!
and the main character-she wasn't weak and boring as many main characters,and actually developed a personality.
I also thought the background story of the main character was very interesting.
I honestly can't wait for the next book in the series!
I really loved this book, it was refreshing and interesting, and I definitely enjoyed reading it!
What I really loved about this book is the new paranormal theme- no more vampires and werewolves!
and the main character-she wasn't weak and boring as many main characters,and actually developed a personality.
I also thought the background story of the main character was very interesting.
I honestly can't wait for the next book in the series!
March 30, 2018
Terrible! Horrible plot, one dimensional characters and literally the worst writing I have ever seen! I should get paid for actually finishing it! Zero stars for this flop!
August 6, 2014
Kissed by Kimberly Roth
*****
I would like to thank the group We love YA Books and the author Kimberly Loth for gifting
me this book for an honest review!!!!
Oh My Dear Kaiser Wilhelm Roses!!! PHEW! I surely hope I
spelled that right!!!*giggles* I enjoyed reading this book so much, like a lot,
I was concern about the kissing part thought!
I do not like boy’s cooties or any germs(*herpes, “cold
sores”), well I was thinking of a product placement in between, Chap stick, or
the new lip balm in shape of an egg(I do not own one! L, *whispering*- ”I think they look weird”)… Well, where can I find a
guy that comes in the middle of the night, keeps me safe and kisses me like we
are about to sink down with the Titanic? And no I am referring about Jack or
Leonardo Di Caprio, I am talking about the only and mysterious Kai, that boy is
like an ice cream in the middle of the Mojave Dessert…..
Poor Naomi! I was so sad for her, I was worried that something horrible was
about to happen to that girl, I cannot comprehend how parents treat their “ONLY
CHILD” like they treated her, she only knew love and caring and nurturing until
she was 8 from her grandma and the father she knew back them but suddenly she
lost her grandma then her dad turned fanatic and secluded them from the rest of
the world, Naomi’s mom was like a zombie, like really woman, this is the 21st
century, do something!!! Nope that woman truly irritated the hell out of me, I
wanted to slap her….
Naomi meets a new girl at school, Ruth, finally someone that Naomi could
talk to, at least she had a friend, but of course the Crusaders of God, and by
that I mean, good-for-nothing Dwayne Yerdin had to keep tabs on his propriety,
and by propriety I mean Naomi. (For God sake’s, who arranges marriages
nowadays?) Well Dwayne according to Naomi’s Father is her fiancée… Really! Can
THAT girl get a break!!!
Nope, after she befriended Ruth and an Ax scare, they only talk during their
time in the school bus, then the boy that kisses at night found letters from
her aunt, finally I get a taste of hope in this story, even thought I was
thirsty enough to accept a kiss from my beloved Kai!!
The wedding date gets pushed to an early date, the parents found that the
letters from aunt Ginny are missing, then the punishment and then surprise,
surprise “the cops”, so Naomi’s parents pull out a Bonnie and Clyde deal minus
the bank robbery and more of the killing part….. SHOCKING!! Of course, Child
Protective Services made an appearance so I was like about time that poor girl
gets rescue, but who I am kidding it’s Child Protective Services, they are just
going to dumped her in a foster home, maybe Ruth’s, naaaaaw, not even close…..
The Yerdin’s……..
I am like Hell NOOOOOO, TO THE NOOOOOOOO! Oh well, Naomi’s
scape and Kai, came to the rescue. *sigh*
Well Naomi gets to scape and seek refuge at Aunt Ginny’s but of course this
girl, comes from the bunnies, like literally has not clue of the real danger in
the real world, like come on didn’t you eavesdrop at school…. Well who am I to
judge…. So we finally met Aunt Ginny and then Ricky, which I did not like her
at the beginning but later on the story she grew on me, anyways there were some
new characters introduce, Alejandro, he was funny and I could see him as an
uncle figure for Naomi, then Jason was like a cousin and then not so much a
nice relative, so at last Puck, but for some reason his name reminds me of a mischievous
fairy in Avalon, oh well, he is very mature and then he completely turns
bipolar and then…..
Yeah sorry Puck, I like you but it just did not work for
me, those mood changes were hard to keep up with.
Well I truly liked the story, it had a love triangle which was not so much
of a triangle and the paranormal side of the story was enough to keep my
attention into the development of the story, I love anything that has angels
and the divine, so I am kind of bias! Kissed kept me absorbed into the
narrative of the story, I felt confused with Puck and Kai, those two are
similar but so different, and Naomi completely shocked me with her decision
after hell broke loose with her parents, and I felt like watching the Bachelor
and giving the final rose to the wrong person, but at the last minute Naomi
chose who I thought was perfect from kiss #1…..
I really hope that the author will continue with this series, that triangle
has to be more challenging than that…. And Ricky and Jason come on there has to
be something there, right? And what about Puck? Ginny and Alejandro? And Naomi?
And do I will see Kai becoming a Sith or a Jedi? (*There is nothing about Star
wars in the story!) But Kai reminds me of a young Jedi!!!!
Overall A Good Read!!!
January 13, 2018
Awesome book, I loved the plot and the whole romance theme. The way the characters were presented was great and the whole concept of guardians and destroyers was outstanding. I loved how the female were made the most powerful for once!
April 15, 2018
Fast-paced, enjoyable read.
September 24, 2017
I tried.. I really did. I was intrigued by the cult atmosphere she was in at home and then the book took a SHIT and just ruined it. What's with the kissing, I'm almost afraid to find out what that's about and honestly, I couldn't care less. This book had potential but took a fucking nose dive. No thanks. DNF 65%
August 7, 2018
This was definitely different
I have never read a book like this. When I read the bio, I guess I don't honestly remember what I thought I was getting myself into. But this was a good read, and I would recommend it. Happy reading everyone! 😉
I have never read a book like this. When I read the bio, I guess I don't honestly remember what I thought I was getting myself into. But this was a good read, and I would recommend it. Happy reading everyone! 😉
July 2, 2014
SO starting this book, I had trouble following. At first I thought it was around the 4th century by the way Naomi and basically, women were treated. But then she mentioned she lived in Arkansas. And it's modern day. It's not that Kimberly Loth writes confusing, I just kept forgetting the fact that she is in a cult (or she thinks it's a cult at least).
So my first thoughts were. UGH!!!! DO SOMETHING! JESUS! It really pissed me off that Naomi would not stand up for herself. So Kimberly did a great job on making the reader (me) feel emotions. Even though it was pissed off most of the time. But the thing is, I can understand why she is like that. She has been treated like crap from a very young age and she just accepted her place. Throughout the whole book, Naomi has continued to piss me off, but her actions are due to the fact that she is very naive and inexperienced with the real world.
The romance with Kai... well. It's passionate. Yeah. But that's all. Naomi is so convinced that she loves Kai. But I have to disagree. I find that the romance between Puck and her is much more romantic and amazing that what she has with Kai. In fact, I think Puck should have been mentioned in the blurb. Screw Kai.
Naomi is a 16 (I think) year old girl with an abusive father and a submissive mother, who allows the father to beat Naomi. Add an abusive fiance to the mix, and you have a shit life. SO now, she wouldn't be able to make any friends at all if she was allowed with the creeper smothering her. SO it is not surprising Naomi doesn't behave the way we, the readers, would in her situation because she lacks worldly experience.
Kai is a mysterious, good looking guy. Who kisses exceptionally well, and says he loves Naomi. That's about it on his character... I think he is more of a minor character than a major character.
Puck is Kai's brother. And in my opinion, a much better love interest than Kai. I started off team Kai, but then as the book progressed, I like Puck more.
Now the story line was engaging. Sure, it pissed me off, but I wanted to read on and find out what happens next. It's just captures your interest and won't let go until you finish the book. Kimberly's take on Good and Evil is quite unique and different. And it all ties in well with Religion. Good job.
Kimberly doesn't spend too much time on describing a scene or a person in detail or creatively. But that's fine, because in a suspenseful and engaging book like this, you would get bored or impatient reading about how some person's hair is a beautiful and vibrant as the sun or something. All I wanted to do was read on and finish the damn book because I HAD to know what was going to happen. Couldn't put it down. Ever.
Where she does focus her creative writing on, is feelings and emotions... and flowers. And it is absolutely beautiful.
So overall, I liked this book. Even though Naomi pissed me off for the majority of the book. But I liked it. Especially since Naomi did change and grow up while she was free. Immediately after I finished the book, the first thing I was was send Kimberly Loth a message asking (hoping) she had already released the sequel.
Congratulations Kimberly, you've written yourself a damn good book.
FOUR STARS!!!!
So my first thoughts were. UGH!!!! DO SOMETHING! JESUS! It really pissed me off that Naomi would not stand up for herself. So Kimberly did a great job on making the reader (me) feel emotions. Even though it was pissed off most of the time. But the thing is, I can understand why she is like that. She has been treated like crap from a very young age and she just accepted her place. Throughout the whole book, Naomi has continued to piss me off, but her actions are due to the fact that she is very naive and inexperienced with the real world.
The romance with Kai... well. It's passionate. Yeah. But that's all. Naomi is so convinced that she loves Kai. But I have to disagree. I find that the romance between Puck and her is much more romantic and amazing that what she has with Kai. In fact, I think Puck should have been mentioned in the blurb. Screw Kai.
Naomi is a 16 (I think) year old girl with an abusive father and a submissive mother, who allows the father to beat Naomi. Add an abusive fiance to the mix, and you have a shit life. SO now, she wouldn't be able to make any friends at all if she was allowed with the creeper smothering her. SO it is not surprising Naomi doesn't behave the way we, the readers, would in her situation because she lacks worldly experience.
Kai is a mysterious, good looking guy. Who kisses exceptionally well, and says he loves Naomi. That's about it on his character... I think he is more of a minor character than a major character.
Puck is Kai's brother. And in my opinion, a much better love interest than Kai. I started off team Kai, but then as the book progressed, I like Puck more.
Now the story line was engaging. Sure, it pissed me off, but I wanted to read on and find out what happens next. It's just captures your interest and won't let go until you finish the book. Kimberly's take on Good and Evil is quite unique and different. And it all ties in well with Religion. Good job.
Kimberly doesn't spend too much time on describing a scene or a person in detail or creatively. But that's fine, because in a suspenseful and engaging book like this, you would get bored or impatient reading about how some person's hair is a beautiful and vibrant as the sun or something. All I wanted to do was read on and finish the damn book because I HAD to know what was going to happen. Couldn't put it down. Ever.
Where she does focus her creative writing on, is feelings and emotions... and flowers. And it is absolutely beautiful.
So overall, I liked this book. Even though Naomi pissed me off for the majority of the book. But I liked it. Especially since Naomi did change and grow up while she was free. Immediately after I finished the book, the first thing I was was send Kimberly Loth a message asking (hoping) she had already released the sequel.
Congratulations Kimberly, you've written yourself a damn good book.
FOUR STARS!!!!
August 9, 2016
This has been a great week for reading and reviewing books! I started and finished Kissed late last night. Let me say one thing: I was hooked. Completely and utterly. The world author Kimberly Loth submerged me--beginning with main character Naomi's penchant for gardening to the mysterious guy who appears in her 'dreams' to the strange cult her parents belong to and more--kept my complete interest. Call me mesmerized.
I really liked how each chapter began with some interesting tidbit about roses. Naomi loves to garden, has a greenhouse outside her home (left to her by her late grandmother who also helped guide her in the care of the world of roses) and has to deal with abusive parents. Her father belongs to this uber weird and sadistic cult where men are in charge and women exist merely as possessions, there to obey and follow. The scenes in their 'church' during their services angered me with the treatment of females. Naomi starts outs as a humble, quiet, teen girl. She goes to school (because of her grandmother who lived with them, other members are homeschooled) but isn't allowed to have friends. On her sixteenth birthday, her father delivers her 'present' with the news that she is to marry Dwayne, a fellow student, cult follower, and general disgusting bully.
Poor Naomi. I really felt for her and her predicament. Marriage at 16? No identity? Her bliss is found surrounded by her roses and their wonderful array of scents and emotions. I knew something was going on with Naomi by the inordinate amount of time she spent with her flowers. When a mystery dream boy appears more frequently, doing something not usually transferred out of the dream world, I was firmly hooked in the story. Dream guy turns out to be Kai who pops up in school and helps her out. But can he be trusted?
Some parts of Kissed made me uncomfortable, but in order to understand Naomi's horrible home life, we had to see what she experienced at the hands of her parents, Dwayne, and his father. Her mother was equally strange and never stood up for her daughter. Things took an even more intriguing turn when her parents were arrested and Naomi took off with Kai's help. Where does she go? Vegas baby.
In Sin City, Naomi is immediately uncomfortable by what she sees, but the sunsets and sunrises hold her in rapt attention. She meets Aunt Ginny, a relative she never knew existed, and falls into a new world of glitter, extravagance, and excess which is so unlike her rigid, prudish upbringing. Naomi meets another person who shares a similar passion for roses and gardening, Alejandro ("Ale"), and his interesting array of friends from the dashing goth boy Puck to the friendly Jason and others. Our heroine is soon thrust into a world of magic and supernatural beings: Guardians (the good guys), Destroyers (not the good guys) and Shades. They reminded me of the fae but were not called this. I have to say the author created an unique world here with her mythology and history that I found immensely rich and entertaining. Her writing was gripping, the descriptions wonderful and easily visualized, the dialogue realistic and the conflicts profound at times.
Yes, there was a love triangle and I didn't mind in the least. Pitting two close guys against each other made for a strong, interesting conflict and I still can't believe the ending. Naomi, what were you thinking? Action, drama, friendships, flowers and lots of kissing (it's necessary) can be found on the pages of Kimberly Loth's highly addictive YA paranormal series opener, Kissed. Speaking as someone thoroughly 'hooked' by the first book, I await the continuation of Naomi, Puck and Kai's story in The Thorn Chronicles, and highly recommend it.
(Blog tour: http://www.readergirlsblog.com/2014/0...)
I really liked how each chapter began with some interesting tidbit about roses. Naomi loves to garden, has a greenhouse outside her home (left to her by her late grandmother who also helped guide her in the care of the world of roses) and has to deal with abusive parents. Her father belongs to this uber weird and sadistic cult where men are in charge and women exist merely as possessions, there to obey and follow. The scenes in their 'church' during their services angered me with the treatment of females. Naomi starts outs as a humble, quiet, teen girl. She goes to school (because of her grandmother who lived with them, other members are homeschooled) but isn't allowed to have friends. On her sixteenth birthday, her father delivers her 'present' with the news that she is to marry Dwayne, a fellow student, cult follower, and general disgusting bully.
Poor Naomi. I really felt for her and her predicament. Marriage at 16? No identity? Her bliss is found surrounded by her roses and their wonderful array of scents and emotions. I knew something was going on with Naomi by the inordinate amount of time she spent with her flowers. When a mystery dream boy appears more frequently, doing something not usually transferred out of the dream world, I was firmly hooked in the story. Dream guy turns out to be Kai who pops up in school and helps her out. But can he be trusted?
Some parts of Kissed made me uncomfortable, but in order to understand Naomi's horrible home life, we had to see what she experienced at the hands of her parents, Dwayne, and his father. Her mother was equally strange and never stood up for her daughter. Things took an even more intriguing turn when her parents were arrested and Naomi took off with Kai's help. Where does she go? Vegas baby.
In Sin City, Naomi is immediately uncomfortable by what she sees, but the sunsets and sunrises hold her in rapt attention. She meets Aunt Ginny, a relative she never knew existed, and falls into a new world of glitter, extravagance, and excess which is so unlike her rigid, prudish upbringing. Naomi meets another person who shares a similar passion for roses and gardening, Alejandro ("Ale"), and his interesting array of friends from the dashing goth boy Puck to the friendly Jason and others. Our heroine is soon thrust into a world of magic and supernatural beings: Guardians (the good guys), Destroyers (not the good guys) and Shades. They reminded me of the fae but were not called this. I have to say the author created an unique world here with her mythology and history that I found immensely rich and entertaining. Her writing was gripping, the descriptions wonderful and easily visualized, the dialogue realistic and the conflicts profound at times.
Yes, there was a love triangle and I didn't mind in the least. Pitting two close guys against each other made for a strong, interesting conflict and I still can't believe the ending. Naomi, what were you thinking? Action, drama, friendships, flowers and lots of kissing (it's necessary) can be found on the pages of Kimberly Loth's highly addictive YA paranormal series opener, Kissed. Speaking as someone thoroughly 'hooked' by the first book, I await the continuation of Naomi, Puck and Kai's story in The Thorn Chronicles, and highly recommend it.
(Blog tour: http://www.readergirlsblog.com/2014/0...)
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