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Darkness Rising #1
Desolation
"Friends are like condoms. They protect you when things get hard."
That’s what my five drool-worthy best friends, turned boyfriends, turned mates, said when we were younger. We lived by it. But I don't know if there's a condom out there that's strong enough to protect us from what's coming ... Pun intended.
Five mates? Yeah, it gets a little hectic around here. That’s a lot of d*cks to handle. They’re lucky I love them—because patience sure as hell isn’t a virtue of mine.
Add in natural disasters laying havoc to our world, learning we have magic from the goddess, Gaia...
Welcome to the Lana sh*tshow. Grab a seat and buckle up, buttercups.
Because no way in hell am I letting my mates die in this life.
***
Author Note: Desolation is a reverse harem novel with some dark themes including molestation at a young age and rape. This book has a 18+ warning and is intended for mature audiences. Book one in the Darkness Rising series.
That’s what my five drool-worthy best friends, turned boyfriends, turned mates, said when we were younger. We lived by it. But I don't know if there's a condom out there that's strong enough to protect us from what's coming ... Pun intended.
Five mates? Yeah, it gets a little hectic around here. That’s a lot of d*cks to handle. They’re lucky I love them—because patience sure as hell isn’t a virtue of mine.
Add in natural disasters laying havoc to our world, learning we have magic from the goddess, Gaia...
Welcome to the Lana sh*tshow. Grab a seat and buckle up, buttercups.
Because no way in hell am I letting my mates die in this life.
***
Author Note: Desolation is a reverse harem novel with some dark themes including molestation at a young age and rape. This book has a 18+ warning and is intended for mature audiences. Book one in the Darkness Rising series.
364 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 9, 2020
1050 people are currently reading
2163 people want to read
About the author
R.L. Caulder
42 books1,649 followersR.L. Caulder is a USA Today bestselling author who lives in her writing cave away from the intense heat of the Florida sun with her husband and furry writing assistants, MeowMeow and Winrey. Life is never boring for R.L., who has hundreds of imaginary friends constantly vying for her attention and begging for their stories to be told.
If you're looking for ways to interact with R.L., you can find her on Facebook, in her group:
The Cauldron: R.L. Caulder Reader Group
If you're looking for ways to interact with R.L., you can find her on Facebook, in her group:
The Cauldron: R.L. Caulder Reader Group
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 304 reviews
September 17, 2020
2.5-3ish stars. Well this comes down to execution for me. The author has some great plot points, and an interesting story line here but for me personally, didn't quite get it executed well. I'm not sure if it just couldn't quite get down on the paper or what, but the flow just wasn't there for me. There were a lot of convenient "plot pusher" details that just kept getting thrown in that really took away from what she had going if only it could have been executed differently somehow.
Lets start with Lana.. our fmc.. just nope. At first glance I thought we were gonna be super pals but quickly I realized her overly hostile personality that wasn't backed up with bite for her bark at this time as well as her immaturity just didn't mesh well. She is just not very balanced. I like how the author tried to avoid "insta" by having the characters already know each other but it wasn't executed well because before we could get to know them, as the reader, everyone was diving in head first.. so it was still insta even if "fated." I began to feel jipped by the lack of backstory and time to get to know these guys. Not to mention, before we even have a real solid "foundation" of each others character, we come into some insta powers and now everything changes.. Just going to be honest I hadn't had enough real time to "love" any of the characters before one turns into an evil doucher and now I'm just expected to want to save him with a yearning in my soul?... yea nope let him rot I'm good.
Not sure if this is for me, maybe just caught me on an off day. I just don't know if this is something I'll want to set aside time for in the future. For a first book in the series I just really think it moved too fast for me to really dig my heals in. Toss up at this point whether I five this story another chance or not.
Lets start with Lana.. our fmc.. just nope. At first glance I thought we were gonna be super pals but quickly I realized her overly hostile personality that wasn't backed up with bite for her bark at this time as well as her immaturity just didn't mesh well. She is just not very balanced. I like how the author tried to avoid "insta" by having the characters already know each other but it wasn't executed well because before we could get to know them, as the reader, everyone was diving in head first.. so it was still insta even if "fated." I began to feel jipped by the lack of backstory and time to get to know these guys. Not to mention, before we even have a real solid "foundation" of each others character, we come into some insta powers and now everything changes.. Just going to be honest I hadn't had enough real time to "love" any of the characters before one turns into an evil doucher and now I'm just expected to want to save him with a yearning in my soul?... yea nope let him rot I'm good.
Not sure if this is for me, maybe just caught me on an off day. I just don't know if this is something I'll want to set aside time for in the future. For a first book in the series I just really think it moved too fast for me to really dig my heals in. Toss up at this point whether I five this story another chance or not.
May 23, 2023
Is it well written? Not really
Would I recommend it to my mother? Umm no
Did I enjoy it? Yes
Will I read the next book? Definitely
Ok so, this is guilty pleasure smut with a story woven in.. 5 guys, 1 girl.. definitely steamy and the story isn't bad. A lot of this book is set up for the rest of the series and I will definitely continue.
Would I recommend it to my mother? Umm no
Did I enjoy it? Yes
Will I read the next book? Definitely
Ok so, this is guilty pleasure smut with a story woven in.. 5 guys, 1 girl.. definitely steamy and the story isn't bad. A lot of this book is set up for the rest of the series and I will definitely continue.
July 10, 2020
'Perfection isn't possible, but I can at least try to be better, even just a little each day.'
This is a debut book by author R.L. Caulder and was a thoroughly enjoyable read!
Lana, the female lead, is sassy, funny and strong. I really liked her character throughout the book and a lot of her inner thoughts were filled with humour. Lana could be childish at time, which under the circumstances was relatable and really made her shine!
The first chapter was enticing and really draws you in as a reader! I wanted to know exactly what had happened in the past and just how this would effect the future. This first chapter sets up the mystery that weaves through the plot.
Desolation is about Lana, who learns that she and her five mates have magic from the Goddess Gaia and must save the realm. These five mates consist of leader Hale, twins Leo and Luke, shy Zedd and angry Ash and obviously all of them are drool-worthy specimens! They've all been friends for years and share a history together. The boys are all so different and each one is lovable! They are just perfect; even with their baggage.
This book is told in multiple POV and I love a multiple POV. It means you're never guessing as to a character's feelings and can determine just exactly what everybody knows and when.
The story is a slow start but in the second half of the book, the action really starts to heat up - literally! The ending really makes up for the slower start and does set this book up nicely for the next in the series. I'm excited to see where this series goes!
Desolation is a Paranormal Romance Reverse Harem book and is definitely worth a read if you love those two genres!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is a debut book by author R.L. Caulder and was a thoroughly enjoyable read!
Lana, the female lead, is sassy, funny and strong. I really liked her character throughout the book and a lot of her inner thoughts were filled with humour. Lana could be childish at time, which under the circumstances was relatable and really made her shine!
The first chapter was enticing and really draws you in as a reader! I wanted to know exactly what had happened in the past and just how this would effect the future. This first chapter sets up the mystery that weaves through the plot.
Desolation is about Lana, who learns that she and her five mates have magic from the Goddess Gaia and must save the realm. These five mates consist of leader Hale, twins Leo and Luke, shy Zedd and angry Ash and obviously all of them are drool-worthy specimens! They've all been friends for years and share a history together. The boys are all so different and each one is lovable! They are just perfect; even with their baggage.
This book is told in multiple POV and I love a multiple POV. It means you're never guessing as to a character's feelings and can determine just exactly what everybody knows and when.
The story is a slow start but in the second half of the book, the action really starts to heat up - literally! The ending really makes up for the slower start and does set this book up nicely for the next in the series. I'm excited to see where this series goes!
Desolation is a Paranormal Romance Reverse Harem book and is definitely worth a read if you love those two genres!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 26, 2022
This was interesting… I loved it at some stages, hated it at others, and was reallyyyy weirded out by one scene near the end. Not sure about this. Hmm.
September 11, 2020
“The past is dead. The future is unborn, while the present is alive. So live…”
5 consuming and exciting stars!!! Desolation is the first book in the Darkness Rising series, a paranormal Reverse Harem; this is a little bit different from what I usually read, but the reviews I’ve seen made me jump without even doubting it, and I am so glad I did.
The world is being destroyed by natural disasters, the world where Lana grew up with Hale, Ash, Zedd, Leo and Luke is not the same anymore; something is changing, and they can all feel the bond they share with Lana. Good and evil share the world and dark magic is making its presence and its time Lana, and her mates face the real problems. The dark Fae is getting to be a bigger problem and its getting closer and hiding in plain sight, and it’s time for Lana to gain her confidence back and afront her past, so she can be the Queen of her realm.
I am really surprised of how easily I came to love this story, I don’t usually read anything paranormal but this book just opened a world of new possibilities for me; my advice to you…Dive In without thinking it, you’ll love it!!!
5 consuming and exciting stars!!! Desolation is the first book in the Darkness Rising series, a paranormal Reverse Harem; this is a little bit different from what I usually read, but the reviews I’ve seen made me jump without even doubting it, and I am so glad I did.
The world is being destroyed by natural disasters, the world where Lana grew up with Hale, Ash, Zedd, Leo and Luke is not the same anymore; something is changing, and they can all feel the bond they share with Lana. Good and evil share the world and dark magic is making its presence and its time Lana, and her mates face the real problems. The dark Fae is getting to be a bigger problem and its getting closer and hiding in plain sight, and it’s time for Lana to gain her confidence back and afront her past, so she can be the Queen of her realm.
I am really surprised of how easily I came to love this story, I don’t usually read anything paranormal but this book just opened a world of new possibilities for me; my advice to you…Dive In without thinking it, you’ll love it!!!
August 10, 2020
I’m not a fan of Lena’s personality.
July 26, 2020
ONE OF THE BEST books I have ever read!!! R.L. Caulder wrote a phenomenal book, storyline, and characters that I was completely consumed by. This book was a perfect blend of humor, action, angst, lust, love, darkness and so much more!
The unique identity and personality that each character brought to the story was wonderful. Each brought a uniqueness and realness to the story, with each contributing to the storyline and creating a more dimensional story that I completely lost myself in.
But Lana, I could feel everything this woman felt. Her pain, her love, her anger, her determination. She is one kick butt woman and I was in awe of her strength and resilience, of her loyalty and love. Together with her mates, she is unstoppable. She thrives with them by her side.
This story was so unique, raw and brilliantly original. It took me on a wild ride of emotions, like I was living through this story with each character, like I was a part of their family. This book was so extremely well written that the words just flowed off the pages, creating a magical world to escape to. I devoured this book from beginning to end, I never wanted to finish but I also needed to know what happens next. I truly cannot wait for book 2. I need more of this story and these characters like my next breath.
R.L. Caulder created a phenomenal story that is not be missed!! A huge 5 stars! If I could give it more I absolutely would. I can’t recommend this book enough!
The unique identity and personality that each character brought to the story was wonderful. Each brought a uniqueness and realness to the story, with each contributing to the storyline and creating a more dimensional story that I completely lost myself in.
But Lana, I could feel everything this woman felt. Her pain, her love, her anger, her determination. She is one kick butt woman and I was in awe of her strength and resilience, of her loyalty and love. Together with her mates, she is unstoppable. She thrives with them by her side.
This story was so unique, raw and brilliantly original. It took me on a wild ride of emotions, like I was living through this story with each character, like I was a part of their family. This book was so extremely well written that the words just flowed off the pages, creating a magical world to escape to. I devoured this book from beginning to end, I never wanted to finish but I also needed to know what happens next. I truly cannot wait for book 2. I need more of this story and these characters like my next breath.
R.L. Caulder created a phenomenal story that is not be missed!! A huge 5 stars! If I could give it more I absolutely would. I can’t recommend this book enough!
September 4, 2020
This book just really wasn't for me, I guess.
I liked the idea of the harem growing up with the heroine and going from friends to lovers instead of the dreaded insta-love...but it really wasn't pulled off well.
Just because we don't get to see them growing up and learning each other's personalities, it doesn't mean that you can't show us, through subtle interactions, the personalities of the characters.
Unfortunately, though, this book was all telling and no showing, which really broke any chance of a connection.
Another thing I'd say is to make sure, when writing multiple POV's, that the reader can tell who's POV it is without having to read their name at the top of the page. Make sure their thoughts are different, that they have different sayings - hell this could easily be a place where you could show their different personalities.
For me, Zedd's character did not fit the character description and personality that we were told he had. He sounded just like the heroine, who is sarcastic, loud and bubbly when Zedd's supposed to be an awkward, shy nerd.
Another point that really needs to be made is that the characters don't act their age, especially Lana. Lana's immaturity is supposed to be humourous, but bloody hell, it's annoying. She's 21, yet literally reads to be like a 12-year-old. No, that's not cute. No, that never has been cute. And, no, that never will be cute.
There were some funny moments, but nothing that made me laugh out loud or anything and if we're also taking into account the fact that there were clearly a lot of moments that were meant to be funny but weren't...
Maybe this just wasn't the book for me.
I liked the idea of the harem growing up with the heroine and going from friends to lovers instead of the dreaded insta-love...but it really wasn't pulled off well.
Just because we don't get to see them growing up and learning each other's personalities, it doesn't mean that you can't show us, through subtle interactions, the personalities of the characters.
Unfortunately, though, this book was all telling and no showing, which really broke any chance of a connection.
Another thing I'd say is to make sure, when writing multiple POV's, that the reader can tell who's POV it is without having to read their name at the top of the page. Make sure their thoughts are different, that they have different sayings - hell this could easily be a place where you could show their different personalities.
For me, Zedd's character did not fit the character description and personality that we were told he had. He sounded just like the heroine, who is sarcastic, loud and bubbly when Zedd's supposed to be an awkward, shy nerd.
Another point that really needs to be made is that the characters don't act their age, especially Lana. Lana's immaturity is supposed to be humourous, but bloody hell, it's annoying. She's 21, yet literally reads to be like a 12-year-old. No, that's not cute. No, that never has been cute. And, no, that never will be cute.
There were some funny moments, but nothing that made me laugh out loud or anything and if we're also taking into account the fact that there were clearly a lot of moments that were meant to be funny but weren't...
Maybe this just wasn't the book for me.
July 8, 2020
Desolation is the first book in the series Darkness Rising by brand new author R.L. Caulder. It is a paranormal reverse harem romance novel and it is hilarious!
"Men say they like a girl with personality. Luckily for them, I have multiple. Keeps them on their toes." -Lana
I could not put this book down. The FMC is fucking hilarious and I loved her quirky thoughts, words and actions. I believe her humor is honestly what makes this book worth reading. She is always joking, making snide remarks or being awkward.
Well, hello there, dick. No, I haven't forgotten that you want some attention from her. Don't worry, we'll get through this together, buddy. I resist the urge to pat my dick in a comforting motion. -Ash
The men in this book all range from class clown to fearless leader. The dynamic of all 6 of the people merges together perfectly as they all have different personalities so there's never a dull moment to be had.
Lana finds herself in an emotional situation as she tries to hide her feelings from the 5 men in her life. Little does she know, they were all brought together as fate will have it for a much bigger reason. A tragic accident results in Lana learning of her true destiny along with unlocking other parts of herself she has kept hidden away. But there is a wolf in sheep's clothing that threatens to tear their group apart. Will Lana be able to keep them all safe once she learns the truth, or will the truth destroy everything she has learned so far?
"Men say they like a girl with personality. Luckily for them, I have multiple. Keeps them on their toes." -Lana
I could not put this book down. The FMC is fucking hilarious and I loved her quirky thoughts, words and actions. I believe her humor is honestly what makes this book worth reading. She is always joking, making snide remarks or being awkward.
Well, hello there, dick. No, I haven't forgotten that you want some attention from her. Don't worry, we'll get through this together, buddy. I resist the urge to pat my dick in a comforting motion. -Ash
The men in this book all range from class clown to fearless leader. The dynamic of all 6 of the people merges together perfectly as they all have different personalities so there's never a dull moment to be had.
Lana finds herself in an emotional situation as she tries to hide her feelings from the 5 men in her life. Little does she know, they were all brought together as fate will have it for a much bigger reason. A tragic accident results in Lana learning of her true destiny along with unlocking other parts of herself she has kept hidden away. But there is a wolf in sheep's clothing that threatens to tear their group apart. Will Lana be able to keep them all safe once she learns the truth, or will the truth destroy everything she has learned so far?
March 2, 2021
I’ve never read this author before, but on the recommendation from a friend, I decided to give this series by this author a try. I knew this was RH and romance from the beginning, and I admit that neither are my favorite, but I was willing to give it a try for the paranormal aspects. The beginning was well-written, and it was a sweet romance, but I was hoping for more action (the non-sex kind! LOL!) and paranormal. About halfway through the book, things started to change, and they became darker, and the book had a more paranormal romance/urban fantasy element, my favorite. I started to become hooked, and by the engrossing end, I was ready for the next one. Recommend!
November 9, 2020
I really loved this book. This was my first by this author and I am very happy that I have book 2 already to jump right into. I loved Lana, Zedd, Ash, Leo, Luke and Hale. They were the best handful and more. Lana was fiesty and the guys were everything!!!! I loved their intense love for Lana from the start. This fae paranormal romance was impressive. It held my interest the whole time. I loved it!
July 11, 2020
spoilers afoot
ahhhhhhh this is one hell of a read from beginning to end lana aka anal (youll understand the nickname as you progress in the book) is one hell of an amazing mc and i thouroughly enjoyed her and her mates and the story overall it was action packed from beginning to end i also loved the side characters though the one known as beth her death hit me as hard as it hit lana serenity the one who was chosen by gaia to train lana and her mates in her gifts was also the best choice given there shared history (youll understand when you get to it in the book) as much as i liked seeing things from lana and her mates perspective as this is her story i wouldnt mind seeing things from serenity perspective :) these 2 have quite a connection the reincarnation aspects of this book were also well done and as for anshar hes quite the bad guy and not in the good bad guy kind of way but i did not see his entrance coming at all though i should have and as for gaia she maybe a godess but she has alot to answer for and i hope she does work to seriously mend bridges and i also equally hope lana makes her work for it for couple centuries atleast :) overall this book was amazing simply amazing despite how i may wanna see a certain goddess be humbled because of actions she took and actions she didnt take it was amazing and im hungering verry much for the sequel :) well done rl caulder well done indeed
ahhhhhhh this is one hell of a read from beginning to end lana aka anal (youll understand the nickname as you progress in the book) is one hell of an amazing mc and i thouroughly enjoyed her and her mates and the story overall it was action packed from beginning to end i also loved the side characters though the one known as beth her death hit me as hard as it hit lana serenity the one who was chosen by gaia to train lana and her mates in her gifts was also the best choice given there shared history (youll understand when you get to it in the book) as much as i liked seeing things from lana and her mates perspective as this is her story i wouldnt mind seeing things from serenity perspective :) these 2 have quite a connection the reincarnation aspects of this book were also well done and as for anshar hes quite the bad guy and not in the good bad guy kind of way but i did not see his entrance coming at all though i should have and as for gaia she maybe a godess but she has alot to answer for and i hope she does work to seriously mend bridges and i also equally hope lana makes her work for it for couple centuries atleast :) overall this book was amazing simply amazing despite how i may wanna see a certain goddess be humbled because of actions she took and actions she didnt take it was amazing and im hungering verry much for the sequel :) well done rl caulder well done indeed
July 11, 2020
WHERE DO I EVEN START!? After reading Desolation I had to take a step back and really process everything I had just read. And let's say right now that I'm writing my review, I'm still in shock. So here we go.
R.L. Caulder takes you into a paranormal world and makes you want to stay in it. Okay I just want to live in her books especially if I have the mates that Lana has. From the very beginning the story of Oslana and her mates takes you in and makes you want to keep reading til the very end. The twists and turns and turmoil are just what I needed at the moment. I'm not trying to give to many spoilers but seriously take a chance on this series you will not be disappointed.
But when an author can make you visualize what you are reading, laugh along with the characters, cry because you can feel the emotions coming off from the pages, and want to go and ki....I mean make people disappear along with the main characters...yeah you know you have a great author in the making. I cannot wait to see what else she comes out with. Be it paranormal or not.
R.L. Caulder takes you into a paranormal world and makes you want to stay in it. Okay I just want to live in her books especially if I have the mates that Lana has. From the very beginning the story of Oslana and her mates takes you in and makes you want to keep reading til the very end. The twists and turns and turmoil are just what I needed at the moment. I'm not trying to give to many spoilers but seriously take a chance on this series you will not be disappointed.
But when an author can make you visualize what you are reading, laugh along with the characters, cry because you can feel the emotions coming off from the pages, and want to go and ki....I mean make people disappear along with the main characters...yeah you know you have a great author in the making. I cannot wait to see what else she comes out with. Be it paranormal or not.
July 12, 2020
R.E.V.I.E.W
.
.
Desolation
Author: R.L Caulder
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Heat: 🔥🔥(medium burn. A lot of buildup)
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.
.
Desolation is the start to a new RH PRN series by R.L Caulder and is also her debut book. I am a PRN/fantasy junky and I enjoyed this book immensely. Give me all thing FAE. I love the different personalities of each mate and how they each bring something different to the group. I haven’t decided who is my favorite. #whychoose
At the beginning, I was often annoyed at the FMC . Throughout the journey however, I watched her grow and mature, along with her mates. By the end, I adored her. It takes a special strength to endure what she has endured. I relate so hard to her constant sarcasm and her love for Transformers. Autobots roll out!!
Overall, this was a great debut novel and I can’t wait to continue this story in the next book.
.
.
Desolation
Author: R.L Caulder
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Heat: 🔥🔥(medium burn. A lot of buildup)
.
.
.
Desolation is the start to a new RH PRN series by R.L Caulder and is also her debut book. I am a PRN/fantasy junky and I enjoyed this book immensely. Give me all thing FAE. I love the different personalities of each mate and how they each bring something different to the group. I haven’t decided who is my favorite. #whychoose
At the beginning, I was often annoyed at the FMC . Throughout the journey however, I watched her grow and mature, along with her mates. By the end, I adored her. It takes a special strength to endure what she has endured. I relate so hard to her constant sarcasm and her love for Transformers. Autobots roll out!!
Overall, this was a great debut novel and I can’t wait to continue this story in the next book.
September 7, 2020
Blah........DNF
Read it all before....and before...and before. Girl grows up from horrible life. She becomes friends with and or lives with some dudes who live and breathe for her. Suddenly they figure out that they all love each other and get together. Bam!
Throw in some magic make the girl the savior of the world with crazy awesome never been seen before powers.....etc
Over this if it’s done half a*s. Seems life no effort was put into making this stand out from any of the rest
Read it all before....and before...and before. Girl grows up from horrible life. She becomes friends with and or lives with some dudes who live and breathe for her. Suddenly they figure out that they all love each other and get together. Bam!
Throw in some magic make the girl the savior of the world with crazy awesome never been seen before powers.....etc
Over this if it’s done half a*s. Seems life no effort was put into making this stand out from any of the rest
August 3, 2020
4-4.5 stars,
Dang okay this book yes had its predictable moments, looking at you Ansher, but even with that it was still a great read!
For being a debut book I am really impressed. The humor reminded me of Raven Kennedy's I this gave me some Cupidity vibes, which I LOVED!
Lana and her boys (Leo, Luke, Zedd, Hale and Ash) all grew up in foster care together, they formed a tight friendship that was leaning to the more than friends side. Also within this world a lot of natural disasters were happening, it was pretty much their norm, which I thought was an interesting twist to how one event will change the course of the future.
Lana has gone through a lot growing up in the system but luckily Beth took in her and the boys and raised them for about 15 years. But the day before Lana's 21st birthday she and the guys experience some unexpected life...."upgrades". I don't want to give away anything else. I feel like going in to this book blind is the way to go. You get more out of it without having to expect what is going to happen next.
The next part is for me to remember what happened when the next book comes around.
I cannot wait for the second book, which if it isn't in my hands soon I will be pissed.
Dang okay this book yes had its predictable moments, looking at you Ansher, but even with that it was still a great read!
For being a debut book I am really impressed. The humor reminded me of Raven Kennedy's I this gave me some Cupidity vibes, which I LOVED!
Lana and her boys (Leo, Luke, Zedd, Hale and Ash) all grew up in foster care together, they formed a tight friendship that was leaning to the more than friends side. Also within this world a lot of natural disasters were happening, it was pretty much their norm, which I thought was an interesting twist to how one event will change the course of the future.
Lana has gone through a lot growing up in the system but luckily Beth took in her and the boys and raised them for about 15 years. But the day before Lana's 21st birthday she and the guys experience some unexpected life...."upgrades". I don't want to give away anything else. I feel like going in to this book blind is the way to go. You get more out of it without having to expect what is going to happen next.
The next part is for me to remember what happened when the next book comes around.
I cannot wait for the second book, which if it isn't in my hands soon I will be pissed.
July 9, 2020
Six kids brought together by fate. Lana, Ash, Hale, Zedd and the twins Luke and Leo. The world they live in is full of natural disasters. All of them had a hard childhood and lost their families at a very young age. They were taken in by their amazing foster mother Beth. Lana has been in love with the boys for years. The boys finally pull their head out of the sand and work together to tell Lana that they all love her. Greater forces are at play and Lana's 21st birthday is the trigger. Life as they know it will change forever and Lana is the key to saving everything. This is their second lifetime and they have to get it right this time because there aren't any more do overs. What happens when one of their own has something buried deep inside that can tip the scales in their fight of good versus evil? When long buried secrets and the past come to light can they work together to save each other and the world? You'll have to read to find out. I love this book and all the characters. It kept me guessing and just when I thought I knew something it changed. All the characters are unique in their own way. I love all the jokes, sarcasm and witty banter between them all. I laughed then I cried and then laughed some more. It's a roller coaster of emotion. I highly recommend this book!
I recieved an arc in exchange for an honest review.
I recieved an arc in exchange for an honest review.
October 6, 2020
Desolation is a fabulous introduction to a new world filled with amazing characters and their journey to save a world they weren't even aware of. Written in multi POV, we catch glimpses into their minds and motivations behind their actions.
This is paranormal RH with a dash of fantasty, and it is brilliantly written to encompass both the shock and awe of finding out you are more than you think, but also the emotion and weight of our actions as they pertain to family and beyond.
There is a bit of darkness within there pages and it may get even darker before it is over. I very much look forward to seeing where the next book takes us.
Here's a list of important characters:
▪︎Lana - their center, quirky sense of humor, will do anything to keep them safe
• Ash - trouble communicating, dark side
• Hale - leader, controls emotions, calm, collected, "my little one," virgin, probably earth
• Zedd - sweet, nerdy, virgin, air
• Leo - twin, drama, fire, devilish
• Luke - twin, drama, water, angelic
° Beth - adopted mom
° Anshar - dark fae bad guy
This is paranormal RH with a dash of fantasty, and it is brilliantly written to encompass both the shock and awe of finding out you are more than you think, but also the emotion and weight of our actions as they pertain to family and beyond.
There is a bit of darkness within there pages and it may get even darker before it is over. I very much look forward to seeing where the next book takes us.
Here's a list of important characters:
▪︎Lana - their center, quirky sense of humor, will do anything to keep them safe
• Ash - trouble communicating, dark side
• Hale - leader, controls emotions, calm, collected, "my little one," virgin, probably earth
• Zedd - sweet, nerdy, virgin, air
• Leo - twin, drama, fire, devilish
• Luke - twin, drama, water, angelic
° Beth - adopted mom
° Anshar - dark fae bad guy
September 8, 2020
“Men say they like a girl with personality. Luckily for them, I have multiple. Keeps them on their toes.”
Stop thinking about grabbing Desolation and download IMMEDIATELY! Gaaaah- that’s the best description of my feelings right now. I gobbled this beauty up in one sitting because I just could not put it down!
Lana is perfection. She literally has become my second favorite FMC to date. Her personality and mouth had me cracking up throughout the entire book and I loved every minute of it! It’s such a rarity to read about an FMC who isn’t perfect or the best at everything! Honestly I feel like Lana is very similar to myself and it’s one of those rare instances where I really connected with the FMC on a deeper level.
Her men are equally amazing and of course delicious! Twin sandwich anyone? I’m not normally a friends to lovers fan but holy guacamole the way R.L. Caulder wrote the relationship?, it just did things to my swoon buttons! Haha! Full disclosure though, Ash is MINE. Lordy that man is yummy!
What are you still doing reading my review?! Don’t walk, RUN, and grab this book for yourself NOW!
Stop thinking about grabbing Desolation and download IMMEDIATELY! Gaaaah- that’s the best description of my feelings right now. I gobbled this beauty up in one sitting because I just could not put it down!
Lana is perfection. She literally has become my second favorite FMC to date. Her personality and mouth had me cracking up throughout the entire book and I loved every minute of it! It’s such a rarity to read about an FMC who isn’t perfect or the best at everything! Honestly I feel like Lana is very similar to myself and it’s one of those rare instances where I really connected with the FMC on a deeper level.
Her men are equally amazing and of course delicious! Twin sandwich anyone? I’m not normally a friends to lovers fan but holy guacamole the way R.L. Caulder wrote the relationship?, it just did things to my swoon buttons! Haha! Full disclosure though, Ash is MINE. Lordy that man is yummy!
What are you still doing reading my review?! Don’t walk, RUN, and grab this book for yourself NOW!
July 11, 2020
I started this book yesterday and kept trying to put it down! But it was so difficult!! I loved it! It was awesome. It does start a bit slow as she sets up the story and the world, but that is ok as it is all important. The story takes you away. The main character Lana is a strong and spunky girl, I loved her right away. I also loved Serenity. She was awesome. There were points in this book that I wanted to cry with Lana or cheer her on. I can’t wait to read the next book. This was so much fun to read.
July 12, 2020
LOVE LOVE LOVE.
Paranormal? Check. Reverse Harem? Check. Witty? Check. Hot guys? Check. Funny? Check! This book has it all! I was giggling and DYING for more throughout this book! I’m now SALIVATING for book two of the Darkness Rising! The suspense at the end with that cliffhanger! 😧great debut novel!
Paranormal? Check. Reverse Harem? Check. Witty? Check. Hot guys? Check. Funny? Check! This book has it all! I was giggling and DYING for more throughout this book! I’m now SALIVATING for book two of the Darkness Rising! The suspense at the end with that cliffhanger! 😧great debut novel!
July 9, 2020
Very good start to new series. Stayed up most of the night just to finish. And wow what an ending. Lana the main character had me laughing at some points and sometimes wanted me to smack her in back of head. She was a really good MC. Love the guys. Omg twins. Ending is yes a cliffhanger. Which just means there is another book!!! That’s always good news to me. Means story doesn’t end and I get to read more. Definitely recommend reading this one. You will laugh and at some parts you might cry. But I absolutely loved reading this one. P
July 10, 2020
I just...I need one more second to process. Wow.
I have been looking forward to this book for weeks, and sometimes the excitement and build up can fizzle when the story is actually in your hands. But, nope, not happening here. Holy crud, I absolutely cannot believe this is R.L Caulder's debut novel. This book was...freaking fantastic.
R.L. created a paranormal fantasy romance novel and took it next level by writing Desolation with humor, depth, psychological insight, and, well, grit. I know that "grit" is not necessarily the most lyrical sounding description, but man does it fit. Lana, and these men, are deep and authentic and they have been wounded. These are not flowery children living a life of luxury and light, these are survivors; resilient, brilliant, flawed and beautifully broken. But they are determined to spend their lives helping put the pieces of one another back together again into something better despite the cards they were dealt. Despite their trauma, grief and loss. Which, once again, is wonderfully written by Caulder.
These characters - Lana, Ash, Zedd, Hale, Luke and Leo - are independently developed and solidified. They could easily exist outside one another on any page and still carry the story, and the plot was captivating. At no point did my interest waiver, and while the foreshadowing was great, I still found myself uncertain of what the next moves would be, or the level of intensity that was going to barrel down on me.
I make this sound like a heavy read. It partly is, as would be any story dealing with complex, strong, emotive characters. However, it is also absolutely hilarious, thrilling, endearing and yes, steamy. I loved the snark and wit brought by each character, while simultaneously loving Caulder's softly injected hope and positive growth affirmations amidst the struggles her characters were experiencing. Still blown away by how she managed that balance so well!
ANYWAY, I'm off to preorder the next book, because I cannot imagine not finding out how this story continues. Brava, and congratulations on a smash hit of a debut!
I have been looking forward to this book for weeks, and sometimes the excitement and build up can fizzle when the story is actually in your hands. But, nope, not happening here. Holy crud, I absolutely cannot believe this is R.L Caulder's debut novel. This book was...freaking fantastic.
R.L. created a paranormal fantasy romance novel and took it next level by writing Desolation with humor, depth, psychological insight, and, well, grit. I know that "grit" is not necessarily the most lyrical sounding description, but man does it fit. Lana, and these men, are deep and authentic and they have been wounded. These are not flowery children living a life of luxury and light, these are survivors; resilient, brilliant, flawed and beautifully broken. But they are determined to spend their lives helping put the pieces of one another back together again into something better despite the cards they were dealt. Despite their trauma, grief and loss. Which, once again, is wonderfully written by Caulder.
These characters - Lana, Ash, Zedd, Hale, Luke and Leo - are independently developed and solidified. They could easily exist outside one another on any page and still carry the story, and the plot was captivating. At no point did my interest waiver, and while the foreshadowing was great, I still found myself uncertain of what the next moves would be, or the level of intensity that was going to barrel down on me.
I make this sound like a heavy read. It partly is, as would be any story dealing with complex, strong, emotive characters. However, it is also absolutely hilarious, thrilling, endearing and yes, steamy. I loved the snark and wit brought by each character, while simultaneously loving Caulder's softly injected hope and positive growth affirmations amidst the struggles her characters were experiencing. Still blown away by how she managed that balance so well!
ANYWAY, I'm off to preorder the next book, because I cannot imagine not finding out how this story continues. Brava, and congratulations on a smash hit of a debut!
December 6, 2020
DNF - quit at 25%
The prologue was interesting but set a high standard that the rest of the 25% that I read -ended up falling way short of. There really didn’t seem to be a story developing other than the RH getting together with the FMC. It didn’t even feel paranormal after the prologue. In that first 25%, there’s really no world building to get any footing of what’s going down. Is it a dystopian world or is it not, there’s a lot of conflicting stuff going down that confused the heck out of me. I didn’t see a thread of anything other than the RH situation sorting itself out for this book. I didn’t really get attached to any of the characters, they just weren’t anything to hold my attention. It was also too easy that all 5 guys were on the same page to being in the RH. I had a hard time with Lana’s immature & abrasive personality, it came across as multiple personalities, with most being awful, that I couldn’t understand what the guys saw in her. The guys all seemed ok & it’s different take to see the RH & FMC grow up together like this, but somehow, it seemed a stretch to go from best buds & foster siblings to romantic interest. Also, they are all supposed to be 21, but none of them acted more than hormonal 16 year olds. The thing that drove me nuts, all the quotes from movies or talking Shakespearean, it actually took away from the story & made it feel immature. I just couldn’t bring myself to keep reading.
At my age (approaching 60), life is way too short & my time is too important to force myself to read a book I'm not enjoying, especially when there are so many other books out there waiting to be read.
The prologue was interesting but set a high standard that the rest of the 25% that I read -ended up falling way short of. There really didn’t seem to be a story developing other than the RH getting together with the FMC. It didn’t even feel paranormal after the prologue. In that first 25%, there’s really no world building to get any footing of what’s going down. Is it a dystopian world or is it not, there’s a lot of conflicting stuff going down that confused the heck out of me. I didn’t see a thread of anything other than the RH situation sorting itself out for this book. I didn’t really get attached to any of the characters, they just weren’t anything to hold my attention. It was also too easy that all 5 guys were on the same page to being in the RH. I had a hard time with Lana’s immature & abrasive personality, it came across as multiple personalities, with most being awful, that I couldn’t understand what the guys saw in her. The guys all seemed ok & it’s different take to see the RH & FMC grow up together like this, but somehow, it seemed a stretch to go from best buds & foster siblings to romantic interest. Also, they are all supposed to be 21, but none of them acted more than hormonal 16 year olds. The thing that drove me nuts, all the quotes from movies or talking Shakespearean, it actually took away from the story & made it feel immature. I just couldn’t bring myself to keep reading.
At my age (approaching 60), life is way too short & my time is too important to force myself to read a book I'm not enjoying, especially when there are so many other books out there waiting to be read.
July 11, 2020
Actual rating 4.5
This book is life. This is a great first book in this epic paranormal series. R.L Caulder is a new to me author and I can honestly say she now has a top fan!
.
Witty, humorous, entertaining, suspenseful, action packed and full of romance. In a world where natural disasters happen on a regular Lana navigates crossing from best friend status to lovers/mates as well as pain, grief, over coming the past and realising her destiny.
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I absolutely loved this book. The humour I’m living for, I did not expect it to be funny and the interactions and relationship the characters each have with each other sparked a hint of envy and note of wistfulness. This had everything I love about a paranormal book. The plot takes you on a captivating ride. You fee every emotion in this book. The world build and imagery the detail inspires is amazing. The writing was done so well it truly feels you are living and breathing in this world.
.
I cannot wait to see what the next book brings. There was nothing predictable about this book. I was pleasantly surprised throughout and it made the experience of reading all the more exciting.
This book is life. This is a great first book in this epic paranormal series. R.L Caulder is a new to me author and I can honestly say she now has a top fan!
.
Witty, humorous, entertaining, suspenseful, action packed and full of romance. In a world where natural disasters happen on a regular Lana navigates crossing from best friend status to lovers/mates as well as pain, grief, over coming the past and realising her destiny.
.
I absolutely loved this book. The humour I’m living for, I did not expect it to be funny and the interactions and relationship the characters each have with each other sparked a hint of envy and note of wistfulness. This had everything I love about a paranormal book. The plot takes you on a captivating ride. You fee every emotion in this book. The world build and imagery the detail inspires is amazing. The writing was done so well it truly feels you are living and breathing in this world.
.
I cannot wait to see what the next book brings. There was nothing predictable about this book. I was pleasantly surprised throughout and it made the experience of reading all the more exciting.
July 7, 2020
This is the a new series by debut author R.L. Calder. What a first book! It’s very well written and it’s like you are there right long side Lana and her 5 foster brothers! The Prologue confused me a bit but trust me you will need it! I’m honestly in love with Lana and can’t wait for book 2!
The story starts out with Lana, Ash, Zedd, Hale and the twins Leo & Luke hanging out enjoying the last few days before college! Certain events happen and nothing is as it seems! They are thrusted into a world they don’t remember, and with a devastating loss it seems like they just aren’t going to get it together in time to do what needs to be done!
The love they have for each other and for Lana is so swoon worthy (where’s my harem)..
Desolation will make you laugh.. it will make you cry. Some parts I felt angry. It will make you feel everything the characters are feeling!! Yes it’s that well written! I’m so lucky to have been apart of the arc team for this book! I’m excited to see where the series goes! I am definitely a fan!
The story starts out with Lana, Ash, Zedd, Hale and the twins Leo & Luke hanging out enjoying the last few days before college! Certain events happen and nothing is as it seems! They are thrusted into a world they don’t remember, and with a devastating loss it seems like they just aren’t going to get it together in time to do what needs to be done!
The love they have for each other and for Lana is so swoon worthy (where’s my harem)..
Desolation will make you laugh.. it will make you cry. Some parts I felt angry. It will make you feel everything the characters are feeling!! Yes it’s that well written! I’m so lucky to have been apart of the arc team for this book! I’m excited to see where the series goes! I am definitely a fan!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 22, 2020
5 mother effing stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I don’t even have words. Speechless. This book/series is unlike anything i’ve read before and i freaking love it. I love the elements and different realms. Freaking bravo for this universe you created, R.L. Caulder 👏🏼
So this paranormal reverse harem is a slow burner to build plot and character development. The book starts off on a prologue at the end of a war for Oslana.
Chapter 1 moves along to follow Lana and her 5 male friends: Zedd, Ash, Hale, Luke, and Leo.
The journey this group takes to find out who they truly are is great! I love their banter and sense of humor. They love and support one another endlessly.
Darkness overcomes the group and leads a path into book 2, Detonation. Honestly, i don’t even know how to process the end of the book. it was so good. Autobots, roll onto book 2.
I don’t even have words. Speechless. This book/series is unlike anything i’ve read before and i freaking love it. I love the elements and different realms. Freaking bravo for this universe you created, R.L. Caulder 👏🏼
So this paranormal reverse harem is a slow burner to build plot and character development. The book starts off on a prologue at the end of a war for Oslana.
Chapter 1 moves along to follow Lana and her 5 male friends: Zedd, Ash, Hale, Luke, and Leo.
The journey this group takes to find out who they truly are is great! I love their banter and sense of humor. They love and support one another endlessly.
Darkness overcomes the group and leads a path into book 2, Detonation. Honestly, i don’t even know how to process the end of the book. it was so good. Autobots, roll onto book 2.
September 21, 2025
I don't know if the rating is so high because it's actually a good book, or if it's because the heroine has such an amazingly relatable addiction to coffee.
Chapter 17, page 257
"I'm not sure what my birthstone is, but it's highly likely that it's a coffee bean."
Chapter 17, page 257
"I'm not sure what my birthstone is, but it's highly likely that it's a coffee bean."
July 13, 2020
I loved this! I've seen the troll review and I don't think that could be more wrong. Amazing book and I would definitely recommend.
July 11, 2020
Despite the darkness of its title, Desolation is a truly delightful and well-rounded debut novel from R.L. Caulder. Though the book touches on a variety of difficult (and potentially triggering) topics, Caulder handles those subjects with just the right touch of deftness, skill, and a healthy dose of levity that makes Desolation un-put-downable.
“Oh shit! Sober up, Lana! Sober up! You’re talking to a Goddess!”
Our heroine, Lana, is – in a word – dramatic. A spitfire. She’s a wear-your-heart-on-your-sleeve kind of girl, and if she’s feeling strongly about something, everyone in the vicinity is going to know about it. She’s not always entirely relatable (who is?), but when she is, LORD IS SHE! I mean, who hasn’t found themselves drunk in a bathtub trying their best to act sober while speaking to a goddess? At her core, Lana is spunky, determined, fiercely loyal, and has a SERIOUS coffee addiction – and I think most of us can identify with at least some of those qualities. Even in moments when I found myself struggling to relate to aspects of her personality, the humor that Calder infuses into her reactions was just the push I needed to connect again.
“A hand falls on top of my shoulder, causing me to jump and react without thinking, cupping the coffee to my chest to keep it out of the clutches of evil. I fall into a crouch with my eyes narrowed, hissing like Smeagol from Lord of the Rings. “My precisoussss. Mine!”
Beyond Lana, Caulder does an amazing job characterizing Lana’s mates. Sometimes, with RH novels, authors don’t quite succeed in fully developing distinct personalities and backstories for the men in the heroine’s life, but there is no such issue here. I thought that Caulder did a beautiful job introducing us to and developing each man’s back story in the foster system and tying that story to how they interact with and connect to both Lana and one another.
“Thank you for saving me. Thank you for picking up the many broken pieces of my heart and stitching them back together. Thank you for showing me what real love feels like. What a family looks like.”
I always know, when I take on a book with dark themes that I run the risk of being triggered – but I read them anyway because often those very books have the most rewarding and touching messages for me. This was so very true of Desolation, and I applaud Caulder for her handling of the darker issues within this book. In particular, I found the dynamic of trust after abuse or neglect to be especially well illustrated. For survivors, safe places and safe people are crucial. And the loss of those things – even the fear of losing them – can shake a person to their very core.
“Remember that we are not the sum of our demons and our past. We are the sum of our love and perseverance through the trials along our journey.”
This message from Gaia to Lana is, perhaps, one of the most profound messages in this book. As a survivor, self-worth is sometimes hard for Lana to completely grasp, despite her often blustery exterior, and she frequently fights to be self-reliant in order to prove herself or to protect others from receiving injury on her behalf. This cycle is evident with Lana and the men throughout the story, and we even see it in Lana’s interactions with others, like Beth and Serenity. Feeling as if we are a product of what has happened to us is a trap that so many survivors fall into. Remembering that we are, rather, a product of what we have MADE happen DESPITE what has happened to us, in combination with invoking the power of love, will I think be key to Lana ensuring that this incarnation ends differently than the last.
I truly enjoyed every moment of this book, am absolutely awed by Caulder’s debut, and definitely can’t wait to pick back up with Lana and her men in Book 2, Detonation!
“Oh shit! Sober up, Lana! Sober up! You’re talking to a Goddess!”
Our heroine, Lana, is – in a word – dramatic. A spitfire. She’s a wear-your-heart-on-your-sleeve kind of girl, and if she’s feeling strongly about something, everyone in the vicinity is going to know about it. She’s not always entirely relatable (who is?), but when she is, LORD IS SHE! I mean, who hasn’t found themselves drunk in a bathtub trying their best to act sober while speaking to a goddess? At her core, Lana is spunky, determined, fiercely loyal, and has a SERIOUS coffee addiction – and I think most of us can identify with at least some of those qualities. Even in moments when I found myself struggling to relate to aspects of her personality, the humor that Calder infuses into her reactions was just the push I needed to connect again.
“A hand falls on top of my shoulder, causing me to jump and react without thinking, cupping the coffee to my chest to keep it out of the clutches of evil. I fall into a crouch with my eyes narrowed, hissing like Smeagol from Lord of the Rings. “My precisoussss. Mine!”
Beyond Lana, Caulder does an amazing job characterizing Lana’s mates. Sometimes, with RH novels, authors don’t quite succeed in fully developing distinct personalities and backstories for the men in the heroine’s life, but there is no such issue here. I thought that Caulder did a beautiful job introducing us to and developing each man’s back story in the foster system and tying that story to how they interact with and connect to both Lana and one another.
“Thank you for saving me. Thank you for picking up the many broken pieces of my heart and stitching them back together. Thank you for showing me what real love feels like. What a family looks like.”
I always know, when I take on a book with dark themes that I run the risk of being triggered – but I read them anyway because often those very books have the most rewarding and touching messages for me. This was so very true of Desolation, and I applaud Caulder for her handling of the darker issues within this book. In particular, I found the dynamic of trust after abuse or neglect to be especially well illustrated. For survivors, safe places and safe people are crucial. And the loss of those things – even the fear of losing them – can shake a person to their very core.
“Remember that we are not the sum of our demons and our past. We are the sum of our love and perseverance through the trials along our journey.”
This message from Gaia to Lana is, perhaps, one of the most profound messages in this book. As a survivor, self-worth is sometimes hard for Lana to completely grasp, despite her often blustery exterior, and she frequently fights to be self-reliant in order to prove herself or to protect others from receiving injury on her behalf. This cycle is evident with Lana and the men throughout the story, and we even see it in Lana’s interactions with others, like Beth and Serenity. Feeling as if we are a product of what has happened to us is a trap that so many survivors fall into. Remembering that we are, rather, a product of what we have MADE happen DESPITE what has happened to us, in combination with invoking the power of love, will I think be key to Lana ensuring that this incarnation ends differently than the last.
I truly enjoyed every moment of this book, am absolutely awed by Caulder’s debut, and definitely can’t wait to pick back up with Lana and her men in Book 2, Detonation!
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