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Rise of the Sphinx #1
Oblivion
**SERIES COMPLETE**
When you’re scared and alone, you’ll accept even the devil’s hand if only to know where he is in the darkness.
Like parenting isn’t hard enough, let’s throw in a budding sociopath that an entire world I never knew existed is after for her power. The secrets my late husband took to his grave have come back to haunt us with a vengeance, setting the small shred of peace we’ve finally managed to find on fire.
I never expected the threats I would have to shield her from. Magic, monsters, and people that will stop at nothing to use her power for their own. Enter Cain, Seros, and Ryker; three men sent to eliminate those that threaten the exposure of their world, and my resident stalkers.
If I want any shot of the two of us making it out of this alive, I have to bet everything on the men that already have one woman’s blood on their hands.
Will they be enough to not only shield us from the threats of their world and ours, but the ones awakening in the shadows?
Contains:
*Heroine that already has a child prior to meeting her men.
*Mythological shifters
*Multi POV
*This is a darker fantasy romance where the heroine gets all of her men. While not described in graphic detail, this series does contain mention of darker themes that some may find triggering, so please read the note in the beginning of the book before choosing to read.
When you’re scared and alone, you’ll accept even the devil’s hand if only to know where he is in the darkness.
Like parenting isn’t hard enough, let’s throw in a budding sociopath that an entire world I never knew existed is after for her power. The secrets my late husband took to his grave have come back to haunt us with a vengeance, setting the small shred of peace we’ve finally managed to find on fire.
I never expected the threats I would have to shield her from. Magic, monsters, and people that will stop at nothing to use her power for their own. Enter Cain, Seros, and Ryker; three men sent to eliminate those that threaten the exposure of their world, and my resident stalkers.
If I want any shot of the two of us making it out of this alive, I have to bet everything on the men that already have one woman’s blood on their hands.
Will they be enough to not only shield us from the threats of their world and ours, but the ones awakening in the shadows?
Contains:
*Heroine that already has a child prior to meeting her men.
*Mythological shifters
*Multi POV
*This is a darker fantasy romance where the heroine gets all of her men. While not described in graphic detail, this series does contain mention of darker themes that some may find triggering, so please read the note in the beginning of the book before choosing to read.
278 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 17, 2020
253 people are currently reading
413 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
January 15, 2020
This book was so much more than I expected. I was hooked from the first page. It starts off heart pounding and you find yourself entranced from the very beginning.
J. Kearston is an excellent story teller and weaves worlds that you can immerse yourself in. I loved the fact that this doesn’t have your typical shifters and isn’t a typical paranormal world.
I didn’t want to put this book down and the cliffhanger at the end left me only want more. I am so excited to see how this series plays out
I can tell you without a doubt that this author is a new favorite of mine and I can’t wait to see all the different worlds and characters she has to bring to the table.
J. Kearston is an excellent story teller and weaves worlds that you can immerse yourself in. I loved the fact that this doesn’t have your typical shifters and isn’t a typical paranormal world.
I didn’t want to put this book down and the cliffhanger at the end left me only want more. I am so excited to see how this series plays out
I can tell you without a doubt that this author is a new favorite of mine and I can’t wait to see all the different worlds and characters she has to bring to the table.
November 7, 2020
4.5 stars
I wasn't expecting much going into this book. I was just looking for RH with a single mum FMC. Pleasantly surprised. I loved Skye and the guys. I loved the Raina, a very open minded FMC who just goes with the flow. Nothing is overly complicated in this one, which makes for an enjoyable relaxing read.
I wasn't expecting much going into this book. I was just looking for RH with a single mum FMC. Pleasantly surprised. I loved Skye and the guys. I loved the Raina, a very open minded FMC who just goes with the flow. Nothing is overly complicated in this one, which makes for an enjoyable relaxing read.
January 17, 2020
This was one of the best debut novels I've read. And I immediately fell in love with the author. Her writing is superb, the idea fantastic and the book is utterly addictive. I am serious when I say that the book kidnapped me and wouldn't let go until I was done. And I loved every minute of it. I got lost in this amazing world the author created for a couple of hours and I want more.
The whole story is full of interesting and unusual shifters and occurrences, and it is so fast paced that I found myself frantically devouring pages desperately trying to see what happens next. The plot is brilliantly executed, and although the author answers most of the questions, she leaves some things deliberately unanswered, because why would we know if the the main character doesn't? I love that kind of sneaky secrecy. Oh and maybe this is a good point to mention a really really good cliffhanger. Next book can't come soon enough.
The places author created for the story are amazing and the vivid descriptions made me feel like I was watching a movie. Overall world building in this book was great, starting slowly from familiar and usual and then expanding into something new, unusual and totally amazing. Loved it.
And characters, the characters are absolutely amazing. Raina is an embodiment of inner strength and independence and mamma bear protectiveness. Determined, stubborn and nothing can keep her down because she always gets up. And there is her little four-year-old Skye who is so incredibly cute, I have no words. Two of them could be considered as the main character, because they are a package. Quite unusual to include the child to this degree (only read it once before) and I loved it to pieces.
I have to mention the guys, Seros, Ryker and Cain, who are not all wonderful to the same degree but in the end all of them got under my skin. Still Seros is my favourite because of his openness and lack of fear when it comes to expressing emotions. And there are some very interesting side characters that i can't wait to see more of, I hope. And not all of them are nice. U can't say more without giving spoilers.
This was the first book I've read but it will certainly not be the last because I plan to read everything this author writes. I loved everything about this book, and I am so glad I found this author, and I am looking forward to reading whatever comes next.
The whole story is full of interesting and unusual shifters and occurrences, and it is so fast paced that I found myself frantically devouring pages desperately trying to see what happens next. The plot is brilliantly executed, and although the author answers most of the questions, she leaves some things deliberately unanswered, because why would we know if the the main character doesn't? I love that kind of sneaky secrecy. Oh and maybe this is a good point to mention a really really good cliffhanger. Next book can't come soon enough.
The places author created for the story are amazing and the vivid descriptions made me feel like I was watching a movie. Overall world building in this book was great, starting slowly from familiar and usual and then expanding into something new, unusual and totally amazing. Loved it.
And characters, the characters are absolutely amazing. Raina is an embodiment of inner strength and independence and mamma bear protectiveness. Determined, stubborn and nothing can keep her down because she always gets up. And there is her little four-year-old Skye who is so incredibly cute, I have no words. Two of them could be considered as the main character, because they are a package. Quite unusual to include the child to this degree (only read it once before) and I loved it to pieces.
I have to mention the guys, Seros, Ryker and Cain, who are not all wonderful to the same degree but in the end all of them got under my skin. Still Seros is my favourite because of his openness and lack of fear when it comes to expressing emotions. And there are some very interesting side characters that i can't wait to see more of, I hope. And not all of them are nice. U can't say more without giving spoilers.
This was the first book I've read but it will certainly not be the last because I plan to read everything this author writes. I loved everything about this book, and I am so glad I found this author, and I am looking forward to reading whatever comes next.
November 19, 2024
Come one, folks, this was written only four years ago. Can we stop already with the "Not like other girls" and "silly pink dresses" and shit. Outdated 2010 YA is not a good smell on ya. Let women like what they like for fucks sake and don't tear them down for being girlie.
As for the FMC, it's pretty easy to look like a nice juicy apple, when all the other fruit around you are rotten aka boring moms, that can only brag about their kids and bitchy gossiping coworkers - that's just lazy writing. (Of course the women are worse, say hello internalized misogony. I did not get those vibes from the author's other books, so I just hope they outgrew those thoughts - and the use of the word „females“). This felt like a completely different author and if that had been my first book by them, I would never have picked the others up.
As for the FMC, it's pretty easy to look like a nice juicy apple, when all the other fruit around you are rotten aka boring moms, that can only brag about their kids and bitchy gossiping coworkers - that's just lazy writing. (Of course the women are worse, say hello internalized misogony. I did not get those vibes from the author's other books, so I just hope they outgrew those thoughts - and the use of the word „females“). This felt like a completely different author and if that had been my first book by them, I would never have picked the others up.
January 16, 2020
Such a fantastic read! Once you pick this up, you're not going to want to put it down. I was so pleasantly surprised, this story was unique, original, and absolutely terrific! I loved Raina, she's an awesome, strong female lead! I absolutely loved Caine, Seros and Ryker. I loved the author's writing style, the plot flowed smoothly from page to page, and it has a storyline you'll simply love. A wonderful story and one I highly recommend.
January 20, 2020
Great book!!
I was initially skeptical, as the blurb/overview didn’t really do much to grab my attention. However, based on some reviews I took a chance - and I am so very glad I did!! This story caught me and pulled me right it. I really can’t wait until the next book comes out to see where this story goes!
I was initially skeptical, as the blurb/overview didn’t really do much to grab my attention. However, based on some reviews I took a chance - and I am so very glad I did!! This story caught me and pulled me right it. I really can’t wait until the next book comes out to see where this story goes!
January 13, 2020
This book is amazing. Raina a widowed single mom is so strong and yea she struggles but she doesn't let that stop her. I feel like she is definitely an awesome character. This book had me sucked in from the beginning it is very detailed and so smooth to read. You get to know the characters and how each of them act as you read from each POV. The cliffhanger at the end makes you excited and anxious for the next book. I highly recommend it to everyone.
January 17, 2020
I absolutely love love loved this book!!! The author had me with the first sentence in the book. Then she spun a tale that was amazing and with unusual creatures. Add to it an amazing kid and you struck gold. It was well written and original. The ending had me salivating for book two!!! Now I just have to deal with the damn book hangover.
If you love kick butt ladies and hot shifters, then this is the book for you. Hurry up and one click it!!! I highly recommend this story, you won't regret it!!!
If you love kick butt ladies and hot shifters, then this is the book for you. Hurry up and one click it!!! I highly recommend this story, you won't regret it!!!
January 19, 2020
Reverse Harem Paranormal Romance
Rains is a single mom . She is struggling to raise her daughter Skye. Everything changes when someone tries to kidnap Ske. She finds herself caught up in the supernatural world. I couldn't put this book down. It's fast paced and what an adventure. Her mates are rare mythological shifters.
Rains is a single mom . She is struggling to raise her daughter Skye. Everything changes when someone tries to kidnap Ske. She finds herself caught up in the supernatural world. I couldn't put this book down. It's fast paced and what an adventure. Her mates are rare mythological shifters.
January 18, 2020
This book is a must read. The story is gripping, original, and it’s impossible not to get wrapped up in the characters. Raina is strong, resilient, and takes no sh*t from anymore, Skye is a fierce and amazing kid, and their three men are perfection.
I’m blown away by J. Kearston’s first novel. It’s obvious we can expect great things from her. Do yourself a favor and take a chance on this new author. You won’t be sorry.
I’m blown away by J. Kearston’s first novel. It’s obvious we can expect great things from her. Do yourself a favor and take a chance on this new author. You won’t be sorry.
January 3, 2020
J. Kearston is now on my watch list. Oblivion is about a single mother who stop her daughter from being kidnapped. When they head to the a therapist that's when things start to change. 3 men save her from another disaster. Caine, Seros and Ryker. They dont understand the pull they feel for Raine and her daughter Skye. But later we find out and learn more about what it means and how everyone is connected. I cant wait for book two.
January 5, 2020
This is the first book I have read by this author!! And let me tell you this book was amazing. The main girl is a single mom and a badass. I cannot wait for book 2. This one ends in a small cliffhanger!
January 23, 2020
Loved loved LOVED!
Amazing character development! Absolutely LOVED that the FMC has “a little more mileage” on her - a widowed mom - there are only so many barely legal high school girls you can read about before every book starts running into one and nothing stands out anymore. Strong and sassy without trying so hard she’s obnoxious? She’s awesome. So glad I discovered this one!
Amazing character development! Absolutely LOVED that the FMC has “a little more mileage” on her - a widowed mom - there are only so many barely legal high school girls you can read about before every book starts running into one and nothing stands out anymore. Strong and sassy without trying so hard she’s obnoxious? She’s awesome. So glad I discovered this one!
January 19, 2020
Oblivion
Okay I’ll be the first to admit that I don’t usually read books on recommendations alone but this book is good.
Okay I’ll be the first to admit that I don’t usually read books on recommendations alone but this book is good.
March 6, 2021
I can not believe that this was a debut book!!! I loved the thought of ancient supernatural shifters and was intrigued right from the start.
Raina, our FMC, is a widowed single mother that is fiercely independent and protective of her daughter Skye. So when Skye is the target of a kidnapping, Raina releases hell in protecting her. Suddenly 3 men come to their rescue but things are not all they seem. The girls finds themselves thrust into a bigger plot and mystery. New worlds, old legends, supernatural creatures, and shady underhanded characters become a staple throughout this book.
A brilliant start to this series that I loved reading so much that I could not put it down! Raina wasn't your typical female. She is sassy, smart, and doesn't back down. I find her super relatable and refreshing- I was really rooting for her throughout. Skye is a hilarious little girl, and I can't wait to see what she does in the future. We have three fantastic Alpha males that form a brotherhood and are ready to raise hell for these two special females.
Overall I found this book really enjoyable and the characters worked so well together. The author did a brilliant job at bringing original characters to light, and was able to paint a fantastic picture of what was happening. I can't recommend this book enough and will be starting the next one ASAP!
Raina, our FMC, is a widowed single mother that is fiercely independent and protective of her daughter Skye. So when Skye is the target of a kidnapping, Raina releases hell in protecting her. Suddenly 3 men come to their rescue but things are not all they seem. The girls finds themselves thrust into a bigger plot and mystery. New worlds, old legends, supernatural creatures, and shady underhanded characters become a staple throughout this book.
A brilliant start to this series that I loved reading so much that I could not put it down! Raina wasn't your typical female. She is sassy, smart, and doesn't back down. I find her super relatable and refreshing- I was really rooting for her throughout. Skye is a hilarious little girl, and I can't wait to see what she does in the future. We have three fantastic Alpha males that form a brotherhood and are ready to raise hell for these two special females.
Overall I found this book really enjoyable and the characters worked so well together. The author did a brilliant job at bringing original characters to light, and was able to paint a fantastic picture of what was happening. I can't recommend this book enough and will be starting the next one ASAP!
September 7, 2020
Widowed Single mother Raina (FMC) is fiercely independent and protective of her daughter Skye. So when she is the target of a kidnapping 3 men (Cain, Ryker and Seros) come to their rescue but they are not all they seem. Entangling them all in a bigger plot and mystery. New world, Supernatural creatures and sneaky underhand folks pop up throughout this book. Skye is the star of this book i think. She grows as a character and so does her mother Raina especially as more information about both of them comes to light. A brilliant start to this series and i loved reading it so much. I cant wait for the next one now
January 30, 2020
The story is action packed throughout and really holds the readers interest even if this is not your typical genre choice. Love Raina's strength and that she doesn't just let the men do all the work. Can't wait to find out what happens next. Magical creatures, new realms, passion, and a fierce single mom makes for a very exciting read. Will definitely be on the lookout for more by this author.
Read
February 4, 2020this book was the first book I have read of hers and let me tell you I am hooked. I freaking love this book . Let me just say this book is amazing. I finished it in one day.The FMC is strong, independent,witty. I love every part of the book. But my fav character is Skye. I love her so much. PS I hate the author that Cliffhanger is not what I was expecting. I am addicted and can't wait to read the next book.
January 18, 2020
Phenomenal! It had me hooked from the very beginning and binged it in one sitting. Gripping and I can’t wait for book 2! The writing was on point and definitely will be stalking this author for more. Loved it
January 19, 2020
This book follows a single mum and her daughter meeting unknown enemies and meeting a trio of men that would become very important to them. Loved this book and can't wait for book 2.
March 8, 2020
Great
This was my first time reading from this author and I was not disappointed! This was an awesome book and I can’t wait for the second!
This was my first time reading from this author and I was not disappointed! This was an awesome book and I can’t wait for the second!
March 5, 2020
Well I got this book in as a gift. So other than knowing it was in a genre I liked and one of the character names when I started reading it, I actually didn’t know much about it. I loved that it features a single mom. Raina is awesome, being totally unprepared for the supernatural side of things she just goes with the flow. Her daughter Skye is adorable. Quite the little hoarder too. I love it. Throw in the guys and you have a set up for much confusion and chaos. They were almost the perfect mix of reluctant or committed suitors. I’m excited for the next book and will definitely be continuing this series.
February 28, 2020
I love this book!
I find it hard to believe this is a debut novel by J. Kearston. It is well written and world building is beyond extraordinary. I eagerly look forward to more in this series and from this author.
I find it hard to believe this is a debut novel by J. Kearston. It is well written and world building is beyond extraordinary. I eagerly look forward to more in this series and from this author.
February 15, 2020
Recommended Read! Unique Story! Very Enjoyable!
I will definitely pick up the second book when it is out. Well done and quite enjoyable. I would definitely recommend.
I will definitely pick up the second book when it is out. Well done and quite enjoyable. I would definitely recommend.
February 15, 2020
Pretty darned awesome
Totally original, I've never read anything like it. Did take me a few chapters to fully love this book. I can't wait to read more. JL
Totally original, I've never read anything like it. Did take me a few chapters to fully love this book. I can't wait to read more. JL
February 15, 2020
Love love love this book. For a debut book this book was everything. I loved every minute. I was hooked from start to finish and i can't wait to see whats next in this series.
April 16, 2020
Mythical Shifters
I’d probably give this 3.5 ⭐️ if I could.
This author is new to me and though I enjoyed the book, but I don’t know if I’m intrigued enough to read the next one in the series.
Raina is a 25 year old single mother, who’s life has been difficult at best. The light of her life is her 4 year old daughter Skye. One day Skye is kidnapped as she leaves school, right in front of Raina’s eyes and to her surprise she manages to chase down the large, strong man and not only retrieve her daughter but kill the man. This is the start of a journey that leads her to three mythical shifters who take to both her and her daughter almost instantly (one is a bit more reluctant).
These three shifters are outcasts because they lost their chance at mating one of the very rare female shifters available, years before. They are driven to protect Raina and Skye, despite them being human, but the plot thickens when they realise that it’s shifters that are after Skye.
It’s quite a simplistic step by step plot, which is sometimes relaxing, because you don’t have to think too hard. I didn’t really connect with Raina much. She seemed a bit two dimensional to me, as were the other characters. To be honest my favourite was the 4 year old!
This book is escapism when you don’t want to think too hard about what is coming next, when you don’t want too much angst, but a little bit of peril is fine.
I’d probably give this 3.5 ⭐️ if I could.
This author is new to me and though I enjoyed the book, but I don’t know if I’m intrigued enough to read the next one in the series.
Raina is a 25 year old single mother, who’s life has been difficult at best. The light of her life is her 4 year old daughter Skye. One day Skye is kidnapped as she leaves school, right in front of Raina’s eyes and to her surprise she manages to chase down the large, strong man and not only retrieve her daughter but kill the man. This is the start of a journey that leads her to three mythical shifters who take to both her and her daughter almost instantly (one is a bit more reluctant).
These three shifters are outcasts because they lost their chance at mating one of the very rare female shifters available, years before. They are driven to protect Raina and Skye, despite them being human, but the plot thickens when they realise that it’s shifters that are after Skye.
It’s quite a simplistic step by step plot, which is sometimes relaxing, because you don’t have to think too hard. I didn’t really connect with Raina much. She seemed a bit two dimensional to me, as were the other characters. To be honest my favourite was the 4 year old!
This book is escapism when you don’t want to think too hard about what is coming next, when you don’t want too much angst, but a little bit of peril is fine.
January 29, 2020
Not my cup
Started out promising and then became a chaotic silly mess. I loved how this book started out, str8 action! And then I'm not sure what happened? Raina was distrustful and ready to flee at every turn, and then all of a sudden she wasnt, she was " I'll take everyone and everything on because I can" it was a little shocking and hard to process the quick change, her guys strength took a huge step back, bottom line they only helped in the beginning then they are pretty much a second thought throughout the rest of the book and I seen no real reason for them to even exist in this read. Raina becomes silly and a bit ridiculous the more you read on, it's a chaotic rush of nonsense by almost the end of the book. One of The ending pages were they are being attacked, raina daughter is flying away from the bad guys, and yet her mother decides right there with them being attacked and her child gone to have sex right there on the ground " take me" kinda thing, I was really saying wth! Not really the best way to show the characters forming a bond, and we had plenty of opportunities before hand. The bad guys throughout the book are overkill, yes we get they are bad guys, but the author makes them cheesy bad guys and it's just weird. Won't be finishing this series
Started out promising and then became a chaotic silly mess. I loved how this book started out, str8 action! And then I'm not sure what happened? Raina was distrustful and ready to flee at every turn, and then all of a sudden she wasnt, she was " I'll take everyone and everything on because I can" it was a little shocking and hard to process the quick change, her guys strength took a huge step back, bottom line they only helped in the beginning then they are pretty much a second thought throughout the rest of the book and I seen no real reason for them to even exist in this read. Raina becomes silly and a bit ridiculous the more you read on, it's a chaotic rush of nonsense by almost the end of the book. One of The ending pages were they are being attacked, raina daughter is flying away from the bad guys, and yet her mother decides right there with them being attacked and her child gone to have sex right there on the ground " take me" kinda thing, I was really saying wth! Not really the best way to show the characters forming a bond, and we had plenty of opportunities before hand. The bad guys throughout the book are overkill, yes we get they are bad guys, but the author makes them cheesy bad guys and it's just weird. Won't be finishing this series
March 30, 2021
Amazing story
An excellent introduction into this series, with lots of drama, action, adventure, but also violence. In the shifter world, not everything is rainbows and unicorns, and Raina who thought herself human all her life is suddenly thrown head first into the chaos. In a society where female shifters are spoiled companions with their pickings of mates, or rare and sought after commodity, fighting for respect and earning one's place is a tough job, more so with a very special daughter in tow. I loved the imaginative world with mythical creatures and odd forces at play, the ever-changing dynamics in the main group, and the small little puppeteer with wisdom far beyond her age that is able to bend the adults to her will at whim. I feel ready and excited to continue the story.
An excellent introduction into this series, with lots of drama, action, adventure, but also violence. In the shifter world, not everything is rainbows and unicorns, and Raina who thought herself human all her life is suddenly thrown head first into the chaos. In a society where female shifters are spoiled companions with their pickings of mates, or rare and sought after commodity, fighting for respect and earning one's place is a tough job, more so with a very special daughter in tow. I loved the imaginative world with mythical creatures and odd forces at play, the ever-changing dynamics in the main group, and the small little puppeteer with wisdom far beyond her age that is able to bend the adults to her will at whim. I feel ready and excited to continue the story.
May 28, 2020
A Twist to the Norm
Usually, when you think reverse harem you think a girl with a lot of guys. The kids they come at some point in the book, usually the end. This book provides a twist by having it start off with a mom and her child. Through the book, the priority for everyone is the child, Skye, as it should be. Skye turns out to be a unique girl. This story follows Raina’s story of meeting 3 guys and finding her true self. For so long it was just her and her daughter, Skye. Now 3 guys join her life and provide her a new adventure where it's not just Sky and her anymore. I can't wait for the next book.
Usually, when you think reverse harem you think a girl with a lot of guys. The kids they come at some point in the book, usually the end. This book provides a twist by having it start off with a mom and her child. Through the book, the priority for everyone is the child, Skye, as it should be. Skye turns out to be a unique girl. This story follows Raina’s story of meeting 3 guys and finding her true self. For so long it was just her and her daughter, Skye. Now 3 guys join her life and provide her a new adventure where it's not just Sky and her anymore. I can't wait for the next book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews