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Touched #1
Voices & Visions
A psychic so powerful his abilities come at a cost. A woman so special she alone has the power to touch him.
Detective Isaac Taylor is a broken man. Isolated by his strange abilities and what others perceive as weird behavior, he keeps his head down and excels at his job. But he hears the whispers of his colleagues and family members, and he feels like a freak among them. Then one wrong number phone call changes everything.
Sidney Fairchild is no stranger to danger. She’s a woman on the run, in hiding and existing below the radar. Despite her efforts to stay invisible, she witnesses a crime she knows could get her killed. Then she answers a wrong number phone call that changes her life.
Bound by their undeniable connection, Isaac and Sidney forge a bond stronger than anything either has ever known. But will his psychic abilities save her or lead to their mutual destruction?
Voices & Visions is book 1 in Touched, a new romantic suspense series. If you like compelling characters, realistic dialogue, and heartwarming bromances, then you’ll love this new thought-provoking series from Lashell Collins.
Detective Isaac Taylor is a broken man. Isolated by his strange abilities and what others perceive as weird behavior, he keeps his head down and excels at his job. But he hears the whispers of his colleagues and family members, and he feels like a freak among them. Then one wrong number phone call changes everything.
Sidney Fairchild is no stranger to danger. She’s a woman on the run, in hiding and existing below the radar. Despite her efforts to stay invisible, she witnesses a crime she knows could get her killed. Then she answers a wrong number phone call that changes her life.
Bound by their undeniable connection, Isaac and Sidney forge a bond stronger than anything either has ever known. But will his psychic abilities save her or lead to their mutual destruction?
Voices & Visions is book 1 in Touched, a new romantic suspense series. If you like compelling characters, realistic dialogue, and heartwarming bromances, then you’ll love this new thought-provoking series from Lashell Collins.
240 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 27, 2020
355 people are currently reading
505 people want to read
About the author
Lashell Collins
64 books176 followersLashell Collins is an American author of romantic suspense, contemporary and paranormal romance. She spent the last twenty years of her life working in veterinary clinics and garden centers in her home state of Ohio, and is now living her dream of writing full-time. When she's not busy tapping away on her laptop and living vicariously through her characters, she can usually be found watching Grimm, rocking out to Slash, stuffing her face full of Chinese food, or riding on the back of her husband's Harley-Davidson.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
July 5, 2023
5.0⭐️ WOW! This book is enthralling, and it just took my breath away. Few IR romantic suspense books have been published recently to my knowledge. This book pairs a black woman, Sidney, who has witnessed a crime and a white homicide detective, Isaac. This isn’t one of those soft, cozy and kinda sweet romantic suspense novels. No, the issues covered in this book are neither cozy nor sweet. Rather, the action is indeed stark and gritty; the fear and the other extreme emotions are manifestly intense.
The plot is well-thought out, and the pace is perfect. Isaac and Sidney are very complex individuals and are fleshed out satisfactorily, except that a great deal of Sidney’s life is still shrouded in mystery. This book does end in a cliffhanger of sorts, but the good news is that Books 2 through 4 in The Touched Series are available now. Undoubtedly, more of Sydney’s backstory will be revealed in the upcoming books.
This author is new to me, and I am anticipating reading the next books in this series. Further, this book is unique given its paranormal aspects. It is well-written, and I didn’t have to step through a minefield of editing issues. 👏🏽 👏🏽 👏🏽 The synopsis of this book is intriguing enough, so I didn’t delve into the storyline with any specificity. But believe me, this book is a stellar IR (BWWM) romantic suspense offering and a most captivating read.
NB: Kudos to Monique for suggesting this author to me!
The plot is well-thought out, and the pace is perfect. Isaac and Sidney are very complex individuals and are fleshed out satisfactorily, except that a great deal of Sidney’s life is still shrouded in mystery. This book does end in a cliffhanger of sorts, but the good news is that Books 2 through 4 in The Touched Series are available now. Undoubtedly, more of Sydney’s backstory will be revealed in the upcoming books.
This author is new to me, and I am anticipating reading the next books in this series. Further, this book is unique given its paranormal aspects. It is well-written, and I didn’t have to step through a minefield of editing issues. 👏🏽 👏🏽 👏🏽 The synopsis of this book is intriguing enough, so I didn’t delve into the storyline with any specificity. But believe me, this book is a stellar IR (BWWM) romantic suspense offering and a most captivating read.
NB: Kudos to Monique for suggesting this author to me!
July 22, 2020
2.5 stars rounded up.
I really, really enjoyed this author's True Romance about a wildlife photographer and a rocker who is finally seeing some acclaim after 40. It was a great story with grown ass people!
I had never had the chance to follow up with any of her other books (weird) but saw this one and the premise intrigued me.
It features a homicide detective, Isaac Taylor, who has a psychic gift. All he needs to do is touch someone and he can get a complete impression of them, what they've seen their life, their innermost feelings etc. It is overwhelming and it always causes him physical distress. It was something that he has had to deal with all his life, causing stress in his family and creating a distance between him and other people because he is wary of physical proximity. And because of this he has in the past battled depression, alcoholism and even thoughts of suicide.
Sydney Fairchild is a woman on the run from a violent spouse. She has obscured her identity and is trying to live under the radar. But all that changes when she witnesses an execution style murder. And while she can identify the murderers, horrifyingly they can also identify her.
The two connect out of the blue when Isaac, in an attempt to reach out to an old partner, misdials and calls Syd instead. After the requisite 'you have the wrong number' greeting, the two weirdly find themselves talking. Two complete stranger who drift into a conversation and that they did not expect but completely enjoy. Even weirder, they enjoyed their convo so much they connect again, having multiple conversations before deciding to meet in person.
Of course people plan while Gods laugh. Isaac just so happens to be the lead detective on the murder Sydney witnessed and is busy tracking down this mysterious witness. Sydney of course is trying her level best to stay in hiding.
And all that is on a collision course.
Let me start with what I liked:
- The writing. The author has an easy engaging voice. You get caught up int he story quickly and effortlessly.
- The set up. This is a great set up. A little high on the coincidence scale that I will let that slide a bit, but it adds a nice bit of early tension for the reader. I liked Syd and Ike's phone conversations because you could feel their bonding. It kinda reminded me of that Netflix show, Love Is Blind because they become emotionally involved just through talking and are attracted to each other before having ever seen each other. So on the one hand, there is a lot of anticipation for that first face-to-face meet. But Ike is getting closer to identifying his witness as well, so there is that added tension set up for the reader as we wait for the shoe to drop.
- The meeting. When Ike and Syd finally meet I think the author hit just he right note. They were nervous and awkward, excited and a little weirded out. They were also surprised: He because she was black and she because he was white. I liked how each had their moment of acknowledgement of assumptions, pause, and re-calibration. They both had to take a minute to let their inner picture they had painted of the other person dissolve and decide how to digest this new information. They address is frankly and I liked that because it was a further affirmation of how comfortable they had become with each other over their nights of talking, but also a good decision by the author to address something that might have been glossed over or ignored.
The revelation - she didn't drag it out needlessly.
- Ike's family. It is messy. I like messy families. His ability had affected them all their lives, not just him. The different members have approached it in different ways. Some hostile, some painful some loving.
- The romance - sexy and sweet.
What I didn't like:
Too much trauma drama - Ike is a recovering alcoholic (7 years sober), he has his psychic ability that is another form of stress for him on all fronts. He is also the victim of an overly aggressive, sexually predatory co-worker who just won't leave him the fuck alone and can't take no for an answer. Syd is, imo, over-damselled. she is a domestic violence victim on the run and in hiding, she is also the witness to a violent murder as is now being actively hunted and terrorized by the murderer. Also
That is... a lot... to pack into a small book like this.
Also some stuff just made no sense .
It is that illogical plotting and the extra-stuffed stuff that actually took what was shaping up to be a great romance with a nice paranormal touch and decent suspense element into the 'too, too much' category for me and dimmed quite a bit of my enjoyment.
I really, really enjoyed this author's True Romance about a wildlife photographer and a rocker who is finally seeing some acclaim after 40. It was a great story with grown ass people!
I had never had the chance to follow up with any of her other books (weird) but saw this one and the premise intrigued me.
It features a homicide detective, Isaac Taylor, who has a psychic gift. All he needs to do is touch someone and he can get a complete impression of them, what they've seen their life, their innermost feelings etc. It is overwhelming and it always causes him physical distress. It was something that he has had to deal with all his life, causing stress in his family and creating a distance between him and other people because he is wary of physical proximity. And because of this he has in the past battled depression, alcoholism and even thoughts of suicide.
Sydney Fairchild is a woman on the run from a violent spouse. She has obscured her identity and is trying to live under the radar. But all that changes when she witnesses an execution style murder. And while she can identify the murderers, horrifyingly they can also identify her.
The two connect out of the blue when Isaac, in an attempt to reach out to an old partner, misdials and calls Syd instead. After the requisite 'you have the wrong number' greeting, the two weirdly find themselves talking. Two complete stranger who drift into a conversation and that they did not expect but completely enjoy. Even weirder, they enjoyed their convo so much they connect again, having multiple conversations before deciding to meet in person.
Of course people plan while Gods laugh. Isaac just so happens to be the lead detective on the murder Sydney witnessed and is busy tracking down this mysterious witness. Sydney of course is trying her level best to stay in hiding.
And all that is on a collision course.
Let me start with what I liked:
- The writing. The author has an easy engaging voice. You get caught up int he story quickly and effortlessly.
- The set up. This is a great set up. A little high on the coincidence scale that I will let that slide a bit, but it adds a nice bit of early tension for the reader. I liked Syd and Ike's phone conversations because you could feel their bonding. It kinda reminded me of that Netflix show, Love Is Blind because they become emotionally involved just through talking and are attracted to each other before having ever seen each other. So on the one hand, there is a lot of anticipation for that first face-to-face meet. But Ike is getting closer to identifying his witness as well, so there is that added tension set up for the reader as we wait for the shoe to drop.
- The meeting. When Ike and Syd finally meet I think the author hit just he right note. They were nervous and awkward, excited and a little weirded out. They were also surprised: He because she was black and she because he was white. I liked how each had their moment of acknowledgement of assumptions, pause, and re-calibration. They both had to take a minute to let their inner picture they had painted of the other person dissolve and decide how to digest this new information. They address is frankly and I liked that because it was a further affirmation of how comfortable they had become with each other over their nights of talking, but also a good decision by the author to address something that might have been glossed over or ignored.
The revelation - she didn't drag it out needlessly.
- Ike's family. It is messy. I like messy families. His ability had affected them all their lives, not just him. The different members have approached it in different ways. Some hostile, some painful some loving.
- The romance - sexy and sweet.
What I didn't like:
Too much trauma drama - Ike is a recovering alcoholic (7 years sober), he has his psychic ability that is another form of stress for him on all fronts. He is also the victim of an overly aggressive, sexually predatory co-worker who just won't leave him the fuck alone and can't take no for an answer. Syd is, imo, over-damselled. she is a domestic violence victim on the run and in hiding, she is also the witness to a violent murder as is now being actively hunted and terrorized by the murderer. Also
That is... a lot... to pack into a small book like this.
Also some stuff just made no sense .
It is that illogical plotting and the extra-stuffed stuff that actually took what was shaping up to be a great romance with a nice paranormal touch and decent suspense element into the 'too, too much' category for me and dimmed quite a bit of my enjoyment.
March 2, 2020
From the very first page Voices & Visions hooked me and refused to let me go. Lashell Collins is the queen of heart-pounding action and soul-soothing romance. I couldn’t get enough of the world she created. I had a book hangover for days.
Detective Issac Taylor is a tortured man. He’s lived with a ‘monster’ all of his life. His monster being a powerful psychic ability that makes it hard to feel normal in a world that doesn’t always extend a hand to ‘different.’ Sidney is as real as real can be, humanly flawed but with a strong soul, and she has her own monster to battle. When Issac and Sidney meet, it’s by happenstance, and what evolves from there is an epic friendship and romance. Even though Issac and Sidney come from two different worlds, battling different demons, they both have one powerful thing in common: the need to hide. What they find in each other is a safe place, even if it feels like the entire world is after them.
It takes a gifted author to make the unbelievable probable— Lashell Collins is a gifted author. For a few precious hours, I found myself totally engrossed in the story, feeling every emotion Issac and Sidney did. Voices & Visions is a journey, and I can’t wait to see where it goes next.
My only consolation while waiting for the next book is knowing someday there will be more books in this series to devour whenever I want. Rereads are guaranteed.
Detective Issac Taylor is a tortured man. He’s lived with a ‘monster’ all of his life. His monster being a powerful psychic ability that makes it hard to feel normal in a world that doesn’t always extend a hand to ‘different.’ Sidney is as real as real can be, humanly flawed but with a strong soul, and she has her own monster to battle. When Issac and Sidney meet, it’s by happenstance, and what evolves from there is an epic friendship and romance. Even though Issac and Sidney come from two different worlds, battling different demons, they both have one powerful thing in common: the need to hide. What they find in each other is a safe place, even if it feels like the entire world is after them.
It takes a gifted author to make the unbelievable probable— Lashell Collins is a gifted author. For a few precious hours, I found myself totally engrossed in the story, feeling every emotion Issac and Sidney did. Voices & Visions is a journey, and I can’t wait to see where it goes next.
My only consolation while waiting for the next book is knowing someday there will be more books in this series to devour whenever I want. Rereads are guaranteed.
August 24, 2024
Very interesting, first book I have read by this author. It has a unique twist on a plot about a cop Detective Isaac Taylor who has some type of psychic thing going on (he hates the word psychic). He has been tortured with this "gift/curse" since he was 8 yrs old and treated like a freak. He gets flashes and pain when he touches anyone so goes through his life with double gloves and full clothing so he can avoid touching anyone. Being a homicide cop the can't ever touch dead bodies. He is also a recovering alcoholic, as he used to drink to numb the pain but is now sober. His current case is gang related and he is trying to find the witness that can identify what happened.
Meanwhile Sidney is so afraid of the shooting. She has been in hiding from a violent EX that wants to kill her and doesn't want anyone to know who she is. She has reinvented her life, changed her name, moved across country, and lives in hiding. She and the cop meet over the phone through a wrong number and they feel a connection.
This has suspense, romance, and drama. There is a leak in the PD, a crazy gang leader, the EX who is hunting her and a questionable predatory female police person who wants Isaac and won't take no for an answer.
This book is short and the original mystery is solved but sets the stage for book two with kind of a cliffhanger.
Meanwhile Sidney is so afraid of the shooting. She has been in hiding from a violent EX that wants to kill her and doesn't want anyone to know who she is. She has reinvented her life, changed her name, moved across country, and lives in hiding. She and the cop meet over the phone through a wrong number and they feel a connection.
This has suspense, romance, and drama. There is a leak in the PD, a crazy gang leader, the EX who is hunting her and a questionable predatory female police person who wants Isaac and won't take no for an answer.
This book is short and the original mystery is solved but sets the stage for book two with kind of a cliffhanger.
February 27, 2020
What a riveting page-turner this is! “Voices & Visions“ is the first book in the brand new ‘Touched’ series. I was hooked from the start & on the edge of my seat! I was so blown away that it brought out the voracious reader in me & I didn't want to stop!... With a fresh new PNR storyline, romance & suspense, with fantastic characters, amazing attention-to-detail & plenty of surprises to keep readers guessing, turning pages like crazy & then left craving more! ... Even tho I always volunteer to read this author’s books, it is without any outside influences, so I can honestly recommend this to adult fans of fiction & now I can’t wait for more, but I certainly will ;)
April 30, 2022
A psychic so powerful his abilities come at a cost. A woman so special she alone has the power to touch him.
I really enjoyed reading this, and all of the characters -- as well as the plot -- were written very well.
The author captured the thoughts and feeling of the H/h to a T, and I loved their 'cute meet' (I hate the term, but can't think of what else to use right now. And actually, the way they met was indeed cute).
I loved Isaac and Sidney, so a win-win. Sometimes, I tend to like the female main characters less, as authors -- for whatever reason -- sometimes make them annoying and/or stupid.
I felt so bad for Ike and his inability to just live a normal life due to his unwanted 'gift'; he was a sweetheart, yet tough. Sidney came across as a normal, functioning woman in an untenable situation. She was a sweetie too.
Generally, I HATE cliffhangers, but in this case, I'll let it slide. I plan on reading ALL of the series, as I love Collins' writing style, and want to see how the story plays out.
I really enjoyed reading this, and all of the characters -- as well as the plot -- were written very well.
The author captured the thoughts and feeling of the H/h to a T, and I loved their 'cute meet' (I hate the term, but can't think of what else to use right now. And actually, the way they met was indeed cute).
I loved Isaac and Sidney, so a win-win. Sometimes, I tend to like the female main characters less, as authors -- for whatever reason -- sometimes make them annoying and/or stupid.
I felt so bad for Ike and his inability to just live a normal life due to his unwanted 'gift'; he was a sweetheart, yet tough. Sidney came across as a normal, functioning woman in an untenable situation. She was a sweetie too.
Generally, I HATE cliffhangers, but in this case, I'll let it slide. I plan on reading ALL of the series, as I love Collins' writing style, and want to see how the story plays out.
February 27, 2020
Voices & Visions is an exciting, page-turner read! Isaac is a loveable sweetheart of a hero even if he is tortured (which only adds to his appeal.) Sidney is a leading lady on the run from many a danger. This is the first in the Touched Series and I can’t wait for the rest. I highly recommend this book!
February 25, 2020
Review to come.
April 4, 2020
Voices & Visions by Lashell Collins is a wonderful story that I have loved reading. This is book number one in this wonderful start to a brand new series and I can not wait to read the next book. I highly recommend this story to everyone who loves reading about romantic suspense, contemporary and paranormal romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 27, 2020
Isaac & Sidney
Isaac is a good, experienced, detective with a rep for being weird. Nothing new, he's dealt with the stigma since he was a kid. He's got what his brother calls super-powers. He calls it a curse. Living life without touching others? Not easy. Stil,m his visions sometimes are an asset in his job.
Sidney has made a life for herself. She lives on the DL having little contact with others, works from home. But she's free from the nightmare she lived in before escaping. Until...a wrong turn. A bad part of town...witnessing the unbelievable.
A wrong number turns out right when these two lonely people begin a conversation that leads to more. It is a touching story with action, intrigue, interesting characters, bad guys. It is easy to care about these two people who seem to have so little in common but find they have so much more.
The author has given the reader wonderful characters, a great story and a hankering for more.
Reviewed for Words Turn Me On
Isaac is a good, experienced, detective with a rep for being weird. Nothing new, he's dealt with the stigma since he was a kid. He's got what his brother calls super-powers. He calls it a curse. Living life without touching others? Not easy. Stil,m his visions sometimes are an asset in his job.
Sidney has made a life for herself. She lives on the DL having little contact with others, works from home. But she's free from the nightmare she lived in before escaping. Until...a wrong turn. A bad part of town...witnessing the unbelievable.
A wrong number turns out right when these two lonely people begin a conversation that leads to more. It is a touching story with action, intrigue, interesting characters, bad guys. It is easy to care about these two people who seem to have so little in common but find they have so much more.
The author has given the reader wonderful characters, a great story and a hankering for more.
Reviewed for Words Turn Me On
February 27, 2020
Voices & Visions is addictive and action-packed from the jump. The very first scene will suck you in and take you on an erratic roller coaster ride of emotions. Buckle up.
Ike is a dreamboat. He has more character in his tiny pinky than most romance heroes have in their whole body! His unique "curse" was handled beautifully; his abilities defy the scope of scientific understanding but the story always feels grounded in reality. I loved that this story never felt paranormal despite Ike's abilities to "feel" other people so strongly.
Sidney is a breath of fresh air. From the very first scene, I said, "Awesome! She's NOT superwoman!" She is a normal, genuine, scarred, and scared woman, and the romance community needs more women like her. Readers need more heroines that they can identify with on a fundamental level, and that's one of the biggest reasons I was drawn to this book.
The meet-cute is about the sweetest thing in the world, and it's a meet-cute that is virtually unheard of in this day and age of cellphones, caller ID, and the worldwide web at our fingertips. It felt so "old school," and I LOVED IT.
The story is heartfelt and engaging and chalked full of sweet, compelling romance. The characters are damaged and relatable. The writing is beautiful and strong. This is a gripping novel by a brilliant writer. I'm eagerly awaiting the next book in this series! Five stars, hands down.
Ike is a dreamboat. He has more character in his tiny pinky than most romance heroes have in their whole body! His unique "curse" was handled beautifully; his abilities defy the scope of scientific understanding but the story always feels grounded in reality. I loved that this story never felt paranormal despite Ike's abilities to "feel" other people so strongly.
Sidney is a breath of fresh air. From the very first scene, I said, "Awesome! She's NOT superwoman!" She is a normal, genuine, scarred, and scared woman, and the romance community needs more women like her. Readers need more heroines that they can identify with on a fundamental level, and that's one of the biggest reasons I was drawn to this book.
The meet-cute is about the sweetest thing in the world, and it's a meet-cute that is virtually unheard of in this day and age of cellphones, caller ID, and the worldwide web at our fingertips. It felt so "old school," and I LOVED IT.
The story is heartfelt and engaging and chalked full of sweet, compelling romance. The characters are damaged and relatable. The writing is beautiful and strong. This is a gripping novel by a brilliant writer. I'm eagerly awaiting the next book in this series! Five stars, hands down.
January 17, 2023
A beautifully-done story with a unique and beautiful first-meet that spins into a story chock-full of romance, intrigue, mystery, and suspense. There's stunning chemistry between Isaac and Sidney, building on a pair of characters that are well-rounded and very sympathetic.
Ms. Collins is an amazing, accomplished plot weaver. I've one-clicked the rest of this series, and am excited about continuing!
Ms. Collins is an amazing, accomplished plot weaver. I've one-clicked the rest of this series, and am excited about continuing!
November 7, 2021
Wow what a good story. First time reading this author and love her clean crisp writing style. She draws you in to the action and emotional torment felt by her characters. Detective Issac Taylor is psychic which comes at a price of painful visions resulting in a life of no human contact. Fate crosses his path with Sidney Steven’s and she’s made for him. It would be so sweet and romantic if it weren’t for someone trying to kill her! Great read can’t wait for book 2
July 18, 2024
This was my first read by Ms. Collins, and the book is very well written and kept pace pretty well. This is an IR with mystery suspense vibes. It is a very slow burn. Spice is behind closed doors. There are action and sweet tender moments between the two characters. I love the MMC, Issac, and the description of his life and how he came to be who he is now. He is a detective with psychic gifts, and when he touches someone with his bare hands, he not only gets glimpses of their life, but he is in terrible, horrible pain when he does. The FMC, Sidney, is running and hiding from a horrible past that may have caught up to her. She is strong and is fighting to get her life together. A wrong number causes these two to meet, and let's just say, Isaac can finally touch someone without pain. It does end in a kind of HFN, cliffy way, because of what's going with the mystery and suspense? So yeah, I kind of figure how it's gonna go in the next book, and I'm kind of wondering as to why the Lieutenant's story is in there? It's throwing me off. A very good writer overall. 4 stars 🌟 🌟🌟🌟
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 17, 2021
A serendipitous mystery romance. 4.5 Stars.
June 20, 2020
Wow, what an interesting story. It had everything from action to torment to surprises. I couldn't put it down once started. It may be a detective book but it had also romance and mystery.
I loved Isaac and Sidney together, it may of started off as wrong number. But they were thrown together and it was like destiny. I loved how they both helped each other.
Lashell Collins did amazing job on this book.
I loved Isaac and Sidney together, it may of started off as wrong number. But they were thrown together and it was like destiny. I loved how they both helped each other.
Lashell Collins did amazing job on this book.
March 9, 2020
This was a great Romantic Suspense. I loved the idea of a detective who has instincts and gifts getting romantically involved with a total stranger, who happens to be more than he originally understands. Ike's backstory is painful, he's really a tortured soul who deserves to be loved. Sidney also has a past that haunts her and it felt very natural that she would gravitate to the attentive Ike.
March 27, 2020
I was familiar with the author from her rockstar romances, which I adore, but thrillers are my first literary love, so I didn't hesitate for even a moment to devour this one.
Who knew a wrong number could end up so very right? When police detective Isaac dials the wrong number, the woman he reaches seems to soothe a place in his soul he didn't think could be reached. He has a reputation at work, and even with his family, for being the weird one. The reasons for this will be revealed as the story spins on - I am so glad that this is but the first book in the series because I definitely want to know more!
Anyway, the plot spins .... when he finds out his wrong number mystery woman is also attached to the case he is working on the story really takes flight and doesn't stop! The pacing is perfect for keeping you on the edge of your seat, and is wonderfully complex and, well, thrilling, while weaving a lovely dose of romance seamlessly. It's impossible not to fall in love with Isaac - he's got such a sweet side (which really shines in his interaction with a homeless informant) and such a broken side that will continue to make your heart ache long after you've finally slept (because this is one of those books you simply won't be able to put down before you finish it....)
My highest recommendations!
Who knew a wrong number could end up so very right? When police detective Isaac dials the wrong number, the woman he reaches seems to soothe a place in his soul he didn't think could be reached. He has a reputation at work, and even with his family, for being the weird one. The reasons for this will be revealed as the story spins on - I am so glad that this is but the first book in the series because I definitely want to know more!
Anyway, the plot spins .... when he finds out his wrong number mystery woman is also attached to the case he is working on the story really takes flight and doesn't stop! The pacing is perfect for keeping you on the edge of your seat, and is wonderfully complex and, well, thrilling, while weaving a lovely dose of romance seamlessly. It's impossible not to fall in love with Isaac - he's got such a sweet side (which really shines in his interaction with a homeless informant) and such a broken side that will continue to make your heart ache long after you've finally slept (because this is one of those books you simply won't be able to put down before you finish it....)
My highest recommendations!
March 31, 2020
I love reading about first love. How Isaac and Sidney came to know each other. A simple wrong number turned into so much more. But Isaac is really shy almost boyish when it comes to relationships. Yes he has to be tough as a cop but even that causes him pain. Being psychic and not being able to touch because you might get a vision has cause him ridicule all his life but meeting Sidney changes that.
Sidney has her own demons and now witnessing a crime is a whole new set of problems. Isaac to the rescue. He wants to protect her from her nightmares and see where their relationship could go.
Not only do we get a love story but also suspense. It was well worth the read. I did leave a cliffhanger but that is another storyline in the next great book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Sidney has her own demons and now witnessing a crime is a whole new set of problems. Isaac to the rescue. He wants to protect her from her nightmares and see where their relationship could go.
Not only do we get a love story but also suspense. It was well worth the read. I did leave a cliffhanger but that is another storyline in the next great book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 25, 2020
4 STARS
Review by Leah
Late Night Reviewer
Up All Night w/ Books Blog
Okay, Ms. Lashell Collins, you got me hook, line and sinker. I am a SUCKER for crime, suspense and you added a little paranormal. Bravissimo! Can I request a tv syndicate to please just make this into a series? I could really use that right now. Heck, tv could really use that right now.
Voices & Visions is written about a homicide detective that has “visions”. Uncontrolled “visions” which makes things a little interesting. I mean really, read my first paragraph, this is a keeper. And then Ms. Lashell Cole makes this homicide detective freaking H. O. T. So now you are wishing this said hot cop misdial and you picked up the phone and whamo you are watching 12 Angry Men together.
There are so many underlying stories in this book. THANK GOODNESS this is book 1 of the series! Because you cannot leave us with that ending. I am in the palm of your hand right now. Be nice. See what I am saying…. TV series.
The first date was a little awkward but I guess it kind of would be but I just felt a little turned off when they first met face to face.
This is not my normal trope but I am so glad I picked this book up. I see this series blowing up.
**ARC provided for honest review**
Review by Leah
Late Night Reviewer
Up All Night w/ Books Blog
Okay, Ms. Lashell Collins, you got me hook, line and sinker. I am a SUCKER for crime, suspense and you added a little paranormal. Bravissimo! Can I request a tv syndicate to please just make this into a series? I could really use that right now. Heck, tv could really use that right now.
Voices & Visions is written about a homicide detective that has “visions”. Uncontrolled “visions” which makes things a little interesting. I mean really, read my first paragraph, this is a keeper. And then Ms. Lashell Cole makes this homicide detective freaking H. O. T. So now you are wishing this said hot cop misdial and you picked up the phone and whamo you are watching 12 Angry Men together.
There are so many underlying stories in this book. THANK GOODNESS this is book 1 of the series! Because you cannot leave us with that ending. I am in the palm of your hand right now. Be nice. See what I am saying…. TV series.
The first date was a little awkward but I guess it kind of would be but I just felt a little turned off when they first met face to face.
This is not my normal trope but I am so glad I picked this book up. I see this series blowing up.
**ARC provided for honest review**
March 27, 2020
Completely Captivating Read!!
Sidney is running from a dangerous ex. One wrong turn in her car has her witnessing a drug deal gone bad and murder. Yikes!
Isaac is a detective. He has an uncanny ability to read people and situations. If he touches someone, he gets a view into their past. Uncomfortable for everyone. A surprising wrong number ends up with two lonely people making a connection. Can they connect in real life, and will the bad guys catch up to Sidney?
Simply brilliant. Could not put this down. I can’t wait for more!
**I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book**
Sidney is running from a dangerous ex. One wrong turn in her car has her witnessing a drug deal gone bad and murder. Yikes!
Isaac is a detective. He has an uncanny ability to read people and situations. If he touches someone, he gets a view into their past. Uncomfortable for everyone. A surprising wrong number ends up with two lonely people making a connection. Can they connect in real life, and will the bad guys catch up to Sidney?
Simply brilliant. Could not put this down. I can’t wait for more!
**I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book**
April 1, 2020
Wow what a great book. This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I’m glad I found her. I can’t wait for the next in the series.
March 29, 2020
Something about this authors writing has always just tickled my fancy. The perfect combination of romance and mystery made it hard to put this title down and sleepy. I really enjoyed this stunning new release and can't wait to read what happens next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 4, 2024
In book one of Lashell Collins' An Isaac Taylor Mystery Series, readers are introduced to an unusual hero and a fabulously feisty heroine. Sidney has been in hiding for almost two years, barely escaping from her abusive husband. On the same night that she inadvertently witnesses an act of violence, she receives a call from a wrong number. The person on the other line is Isaac, a local policeman who is also hiding...but in another way. Isaac is leading a solitary existence. In a world where everyone tries to act normal he is a an anomaly....a psychic detective who feels pain when touched. Against common sense and advice, Sidney and Isaac continue their telephone friendship. Little do they know that their worlds are about to collide and danger is near. Isaac Taylor is one of the most amazingly sweet heroes ever penned. He has spent years being shunned by his family but still has an air of innocence and compassion. Sidney proved to be just what he needed. Book 1 in the series totally pulled me in. Ms. Collins uses her secondary characters to great effect...readers are ALMOST as involved and engaged by them as the main characters. As of this review, I am on book six and I have enjoyed every episode!
https://theretiredreader.com/f/vision...
https://theretiredreader.com/f/vision...
March 26, 2022
Loveeed this book! From the meetcute, the strong current of mystery and action, and the romance (mostly sweet with a dash of tasteful spice). A compelling cast of diverse characters as well.
It has a breezy writing style that makes you really fly through it. I was hooked from page 1.
I love a book with interactions so cute that it makes me actually smirk and giggle. Isaac is so awkwardly endearing with his mannerisms and inexperience and Sidney, mentally strong while being gentle and sweet. Their chemistry is natural and strong. I'm so excited that there's so many more books in this series so I can keep enjoying their relationship and the new mysteries as they unfold.
It has a breezy writing style that makes you really fly through it. I was hooked from page 1.
I love a book with interactions so cute that it makes me actually smirk and giggle. Isaac is so awkwardly endearing with his mannerisms and inexperience and Sidney, mentally strong while being gentle and sweet. Their chemistry is natural and strong. I'm so excited that there's so many more books in this series so I can keep enjoying their relationship and the new mysteries as they unfold.
August 3, 2023
A tantalizing example of paranormal romance, full of action and suspense! Couldn't put it down!
"Voices and Visions" by Lashell Collins, is a great start to series about a psychic detective in Cleveland. This novel was a perfect introduction to this new me author. From this one book, I can already tell that Lashell Collins is a wonderful storyteller with a creative imagination. "Voices and Visions" is full of action and suspense. The twists and turns in the plot had me on the edge of my seat, wondering what could possibly happen next. I couldn't put the book down, finishing it in one morning, barely moving for food and bathroom breaks!
The main character, Isaac Taylor, a detective with some unusual abilities involving visions received when he touches people, is a brilliant hero. Lashell Collins painstakingly crafted a three dimensional protagonist who slowly evolves over the length of novel. He captured my heart and by the end of the novel I was more and less in love with him. I cried over his tortured childhood and rejoiced when he found his happily ever after ending. And more importantly, for Lashell Collins sake, I was eager to one-click buy the next book in the series so that I could see what happens next.
Sidney, Issac's surprise love interest is no slouch of a character either. She is a strong but vulnerable female protagonist. The witty way the two meet and the slow burn of their love affair made my heart sing. Again, Lashell Collins magnificent talent for word craft brought new life to paranormal romance.
I am excited about adding a new author to my bookshelves. I am looking forward to experiencing more of what this talented writer has done.
"Voices and Visions" by Lashell Collins, is a great start to series about a psychic detective in Cleveland. This novel was a perfect introduction to this new me author. From this one book, I can already tell that Lashell Collins is a wonderful storyteller with a creative imagination. "Voices and Visions" is full of action and suspense. The twists and turns in the plot had me on the edge of my seat, wondering what could possibly happen next. I couldn't put the book down, finishing it in one morning, barely moving for food and bathroom breaks!
The main character, Isaac Taylor, a detective with some unusual abilities involving visions received when he touches people, is a brilliant hero. Lashell Collins painstakingly crafted a three dimensional protagonist who slowly evolves over the length of novel. He captured my heart and by the end of the novel I was more and less in love with him. I cried over his tortured childhood and rejoiced when he found his happily ever after ending. And more importantly, for Lashell Collins sake, I was eager to one-click buy the next book in the series so that I could see what happens next.
Sidney, Issac's surprise love interest is no slouch of a character either. She is a strong but vulnerable female protagonist. The witty way the two meet and the slow burn of their love affair made my heart sing. Again, Lashell Collins magnificent talent for word craft brought new life to paranormal romance.
I am excited about adding a new author to my bookshelves. I am looking forward to experiencing more of what this talented writer has done.
December 26, 2022
I started reading about Isaac Taylor Psychic Detective with book 9 and soon realized that I needed to go back and purchase the other books in the series because Lashell Collins had me hooked on her Isaac Taylor Mysteries and I am pretty sure there are other books that she has written that I will be reading as soon as I catch up to all the books about Isaac Taylor Mysteries. I loved how this story began with us finding out about Isaac Taylor and his abilities. We meet him in his older brother, Adam's new house. He is a doctor and he and his wife have just recently purchased a home. We quickly find out why Isaac won't embrace who he is because we meet his father. I like how Isaac and Sidney meet. Isaac's old partner left him a number and he was trying to read the number and dialed what he thought he had written down and it was the wrong number, but it turned quickly out to be the wrong number but the right one because that is how he got to meet Sidney first. I loved this story, and it is just the beginning of Isaac and Sidney's relationship. There is drama, romance and more drama and mystery. I would highly recommend this series because I went from reading book nine to starting from the beginning and reading book one in this series. This series is worth purchasing. I am quickly becoming a Lashell Collins fan.
May 23, 2020
Voices & Vision is well-put together tale of how a coincidence can change the lives of two strangers. It has the classic romance feel with the characters meeting by chance with a wrong number dialed. The characters are well-developed, dynamic and authentic. Sidney is sweet, compassionate woman despite having lived a hard life. Isaac despite his hang-up with his abilities and his chosen profession, is empathic, humble and slightly socially awkward. I loved that each character has a full back story that helped to make them real.
The story pace is fast and action-packed right from the very beginning. It is told in 3rd person but switches viewpoints allowing the reader to see things from Sidney’s, Isaac’s or Gavin’s perspective. I liked how well the author illustrated the cost of having psychic gifts. Isolation especially when forced upon you by circumstances can lead to unhealthy coping behaviors. The author’s descriptions drew me into the story and I pretty much read it straight through. I almost did not want it to end. The ending is a small cliffhanger, but it was more of a lead-in to keep the reader interested in the second book. Overall, great read that I would recommend who loves sweet and old-fashioned romance mixed with mystery, action and suspense.
The story pace is fast and action-packed right from the very beginning. It is told in 3rd person but switches viewpoints allowing the reader to see things from Sidney’s, Isaac’s or Gavin’s perspective. I liked how well the author illustrated the cost of having psychic gifts. Isolation especially when forced upon you by circumstances can lead to unhealthy coping behaviors. The author’s descriptions drew me into the story and I pretty much read it straight through. I almost did not want it to end. The ending is a small cliffhanger, but it was more of a lead-in to keep the reader interested in the second book. Overall, great read that I would recommend who loves sweet and old-fashioned romance mixed with mystery, action and suspense.
February 10, 2025
Happy I found this
I got this book from a stuff your kindle day & honestly usually I don’t find many good books from those but wow this one was a great pleasant find!
I read it in one go honestly I couldn’t stop reading it, I was interested in Issac & Sidney’s story wondering what would happen next. Eager to see their first meeting and none of it disappointed, it was such a well written story with fun cute banter and I LOVE how the main female character is a black women I love reading about her description and hearing about her curly hair honestly is one of my favorite parts because it just feels good reading a book with a character who is similar race to yours.
I also like how the author makes the characters touch on the topic of interracial dating and the ability Issac has is interesting too! I’m definitely interested in seeing where Issac & Sidney story goes and the author does a great job of wrapping up book one but leaving the suspense open for book two!
Would definitely recommend reading! It was a bit of a slow burn (which I like!) and had a good mixture of romance,action, suspense and mystery!
I got this book from a stuff your kindle day & honestly usually I don’t find many good books from those but wow this one was a great pleasant find!
I read it in one go honestly I couldn’t stop reading it, I was interested in Issac & Sidney’s story wondering what would happen next. Eager to see their first meeting and none of it disappointed, it was such a well written story with fun cute banter and I LOVE how the main female character is a black women I love reading about her description and hearing about her curly hair honestly is one of my favorite parts because it just feels good reading a book with a character who is similar race to yours.
I also like how the author makes the characters touch on the topic of interracial dating and the ability Issac has is interesting too! I’m definitely interested in seeing where Issac & Sidney story goes and the author does a great job of wrapping up book one but leaving the suspense open for book two!
Would definitely recommend reading! It was a bit of a slow burn (which I like!) and had a good mixture of romance,action, suspense and mystery!
January 1, 2021
From the start, I was captivated by this gripping and romantic story. It is an interesting plot pairing a white psychic homicide detective with a beautiful black woman who is hiding out from not one, but two dangerous men.
Sidney and Isaac are very lonely people with so much pain in their pasts. The author does a brilliant job drawing out the fear for Sidney and the heartache for Isaac. They are two lost souls who happen to meet by dialing a wrong number which ironically brings them together to solve an extremely dangerous murder case. The attraction and trust build slowly as Isaac realizes that Sidney is different from anyone he has ever met.
I recommend this gritty and fresh romantic suspense novel with fascinating characters and twists and turns that will keep you hooked until the end. My one disappointment is that it has a cliffhanger so I have added book 2 to my TBR list.
Thank you to Ms. Collins for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
Sidney and Isaac are very lonely people with so much pain in their pasts. The author does a brilliant job drawing out the fear for Sidney and the heartache for Isaac. They are two lost souls who happen to meet by dialing a wrong number which ironically brings them together to solve an extremely dangerous murder case. The attraction and trust build slowly as Isaac realizes that Sidney is different from anyone he has ever met.
I recommend this gritty and fresh romantic suspense novel with fascinating characters and twists and turns that will keep you hooked until the end. My one disappointment is that it has a cliffhanger so I have added book 2 to my TBR list.
Thank you to Ms. Collins for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
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