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Providence Paranormal College #1
Bearly Awake
Bobby Tremain’s life used to seem charmed, but since his dad’s crippling accident, he has an avalanche of problems. He’s the first in his family to have a shot at college, also the first to head north of Louisiana. An early snow calls his Bear to hibernate a week before finals, but he needs to pass or he flunks out of Providence Paranormal College.
Lynn Frampton’s loneliness is almost more than she can take. She went to college on the other side of the country to get away from the persistent curse of unpopularity in a small town. Once at college, Lynn’s prickly personality has pushed everyone away yet again. At least, she’s at the top of her class.
Bobby needs Lynn’s help to stay awake and pass his exam, and she discovers she needs companionship more than she’d ever imagined. Lynn’s all set to transfer to a school back home, but Bobby thinks she’s his mate. Can he keep awake long enough to pass, and more importantly, convince his love to stay?
Let this introductory novella transport you to Providence Paranormal College. Extrahumans of all types abound on this urban campus on the East Side of Providence, Rhode Island. This Ivy-League college recently opened its doors to anyone with enough talent. The Admissions Department at PPC enrolls humans with extraordinary grades, the magically and psychically inclined, vampires, werewolves, changelings, and even magic shifters like dragons and Kelpies. Come take a tour! If you like YA and NA Paranormal Romance or Urban Fantasy with strong romantic subplots, you’ll feel right at home here.
Lynn Frampton’s loneliness is almost more than she can take. She went to college on the other side of the country to get away from the persistent curse of unpopularity in a small town. Once at college, Lynn’s prickly personality has pushed everyone away yet again. At least, she’s at the top of her class.
Bobby needs Lynn’s help to stay awake and pass his exam, and she discovers she needs companionship more than she’d ever imagined. Lynn’s all set to transfer to a school back home, but Bobby thinks she’s his mate. Can he keep awake long enough to pass, and more importantly, convince his love to stay?
Let this introductory novella transport you to Providence Paranormal College. Extrahumans of all types abound on this urban campus on the East Side of Providence, Rhode Island. This Ivy-League college recently opened its doors to anyone with enough talent. The Admissions Department at PPC enrolls humans with extraordinary grades, the magically and psychically inclined, vampires, werewolves, changelings, and even magic shifters like dragons and Kelpies. Come take a tour! If you like YA and NA Paranormal Romance or Urban Fantasy with strong romantic subplots, you’ll feel right at home here.
136 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 26, 2016
103 people are currently reading
201 people want to read
About the author
D.R. Perry
75 books119 followersD.R. Perry writes primarily in Revealed World. These are open UF YA Academy books with diverse characters and cute magical critters. She lives with her spouse, child, and dog in Rhode Island.
This is one geeky author who loves writing for the sense of adventure and wonder. In her books, you’ll find real characters, fantastic worlds, and a handful each of humor and hope.
D.R. hopes you have as much fun reading her books as she did writing them.
You can find her on the web here: http://www.drperryauthor.com
This is one geeky author who loves writing for the sense of adventure and wonder. In her books, you’ll find real characters, fantastic worlds, and a handful each of humor and hope.
D.R. hopes you have as much fun reading her books as she did writing them.
You can find her on the web here: http://www.drperryauthor.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
August 18, 2016
Welcome to Providence Paranormal College (PPC).
In the aforementioned PPC, Bobby Tremain is in danger of failing a class unless he pulls his socks up. But that's not so easy, as the snow is as high as an elephant's eye, and all he wants to do is sleep the winter away.
Oh, did I mention he's a bear shifter?
The school is filled with folks who have any number of magical abilities. I thought Maddie was particularly creative. Into this steps sarcastic fully human Lynn Frampton. Lynn's also probably the smartest person not only in one room but in any room. Bam! Instant tutor.
Can Lynn help Bobby pass without letting him sleep until the spring thaw? Can Bobby concentrate even as he realizes he's falling for Lynn?
That is the crux of the plot. It's laced with supernatural people and events but that is the gist of it.
I lived in Providence a little over 20 years ago. It's kind of an interesting idea for a setting. However, I wanted to see more of the local stuff - given that Providence Paranormal College is either in Brown University or next to it (a little unclear in the story), that doesn't tell me all I want to know. Same thing with Thayer Street and the like. And I at least had some ideas about the area! It's not necessarily a big quibble but it does go to world building.
I know there are more books in this series and they concentrate on other characters. There is an alternating POV in the story but I honestly would have preferred just Lynn's point of view. I realize this may have been done in order to emphasize the romantic aspects of the story but I felt Lynn ended up being shortchanged in the plot department. Both main points in the plot focus on Bobby. Yes, she's trying to figure out whether she is going to stay at school or transfer to some lesser institution back home in Wisconsin, but that never felt like it was really an issue - at least not to me. Very smart people with very good grades can get funding to go to very good schools.
The world of PPC is interesting and the characters are fun. I would like to see them all get their own spotlights, and not have to share them - not even with their forever mates.
**I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.**
In the aforementioned PPC, Bobby Tremain is in danger of failing a class unless he pulls his socks up. But that's not so easy, as the snow is as high as an elephant's eye, and all he wants to do is sleep the winter away.
Oh, did I mention he's a bear shifter?
The school is filled with folks who have any number of magical abilities. I thought Maddie was particularly creative. Into this steps sarcastic fully human Lynn Frampton. Lynn's also probably the smartest person not only in one room but in any room. Bam! Instant tutor.
Can Lynn help Bobby pass without letting him sleep until the spring thaw? Can Bobby concentrate even as he realizes he's falling for Lynn?
That is the crux of the plot. It's laced with supernatural people and events but that is the gist of it.
I lived in Providence a little over 20 years ago. It's kind of an interesting idea for a setting. However, I wanted to see more of the local stuff - given that Providence Paranormal College is either in Brown University or next to it (a little unclear in the story), that doesn't tell me all I want to know. Same thing with Thayer Street and the like. And I at least had some ideas about the area! It's not necessarily a big quibble but it does go to world building.
I know there are more books in this series and they concentrate on other characters. There is an alternating POV in the story but I honestly would have preferred just Lynn's point of view. I realize this may have been done in order to emphasize the romantic aspects of the story but I felt Lynn ended up being shortchanged in the plot department. Both main points in the plot focus on Bobby. Yes, she's trying to figure out whether she is going to stay at school or transfer to some lesser institution back home in Wisconsin, but that never felt like it was really an issue - at least not to me. Very smart people with very good grades can get funding to go to very good schools.
The world of PPC is interesting and the characters are fun. I would like to see them all get their own spotlights, and not have to share them - not even with their forever mates.
**I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.**
July 1, 2016
A college for those who are a bit more paranormal in nature, this first book in the series introduces us to several types. Although this book only really focuses on the type that the Male MC is (a bear shifter), we do meet several supporting characters as well which gives us insight into this series particular take on different paranormal types.
The focus though is on a college student who because it's winter and he is a bear shifter desperately finds himself wanting to go into hibernation. The problem is he has exams and is in danger of failing so no sleeping for him. Enter into the picture a regular human who is allowed to study at the college as his new study buddy. Her attempts to learn about him and keep him awake also raises the question of has he found his mate.
As mentioned there is a great deal of background we learn throughout the book about the Male MC, which gives us an idea of why he is the way he is and what direction the story might be heading in. While the story as a whole could be considered predictable to a fair degree, the various snippets we get of the supporting characters lives and personalities leaves enough intrigue that there is always a sliver of doubt.
With this first book establishing several memorable characters, hopefully the later books in the series will showcase them as well as I was left with the feeling that any of them could be a focus of a story. Overall a great start to a series by the author.
The focus though is on a college student who because it's winter and he is a bear shifter desperately finds himself wanting to go into hibernation. The problem is he has exams and is in danger of failing so no sleeping for him. Enter into the picture a regular human who is allowed to study at the college as his new study buddy. Her attempts to learn about him and keep him awake also raises the question of has he found his mate.
As mentioned there is a great deal of background we learn throughout the book about the Male MC, which gives us an idea of why he is the way he is and what direction the story might be heading in. While the story as a whole could be considered predictable to a fair degree, the various snippets we get of the supporting characters lives and personalities leaves enough intrigue that there is always a sliver of doubt.
With this first book establishing several memorable characters, hopefully the later books in the series will showcase them as well as I was left with the feeling that any of them could be a focus of a story. Overall a great start to a series by the author.
February 20, 2018
So, this wasn't necessarily bad. It fit the bill of being fluffy and non-taxing, which is what I wanted when I picked it up. But I didn't feel like it held together very well. The plot jumps around and a fairly large mystery isn't solved. Worse though, was the main character, Lynn. She's supposed to be smart and sassy and snarky and sarcastic. I know this because her internal monologue tells me, the reader, about it a dozen times. But I just found her unpleasant. Sure, there's some fun nerdiness, that I and a large portion of the female populace recognize and appreciate. But it's treated like she's something special for it. And her constant, "I'm not like other girls because I'm smart," is a blatant insult. It infers that other women aren't smart. Duh. Basically, it felt like the author was trying way too hard to be funny and it just fell flat on its face.
June 19, 2017
What a fun book! I devoured Bearly Awake in one sitting. So much fun and a refreshing take on shifter romances. I love the idea of a paranormal college with lots of different supernatural characters. I'm sure some of the ones that were introduced will be featured in subsequent novels.
This a was a fast read with lots of humor and a sweet romance. Clean for those of you who are interested. I enjoyed the banter between the characters and the snark of the heroine. Well written, engaging, and light-hearted, this book is a definite read. I know I'll be checking out the rest of the series. Highly recommended!
This a was a fast read with lots of humor and a sweet romance. Clean for those of you who are interested. I enjoyed the banter between the characters and the snark of the heroine. Well written, engaging, and light-hearted, this book is a definite read. I know I'll be checking out the rest of the series. Highly recommended!
April 24, 2017
This was a fun, lighthearted paranormal read. We are introduced to Providence Paranormal College and the various characters that attend. We meet bear shifter Bobby and smart human Lynn. They are forced to spend time together when Lynn has to tutor Bobby, as well as get him to stay awake long enough to take the exam, when all Bobby's bear wants to do is hibernate. We also get to meet the roommate no one can remember, Blaine the dragon shifter, and more interesting Extrahumans. I enjoyed it and can't wait to read more.
December 11, 2017
The writing reminds me a lot of Spider Robinson and Eoin Colfer. It's a sweet story set in an interesting alternate universe. I liked some of the geeky references but the Star Wars jokes got annoying. Also, I'd avoid reading this book when your tired as it's about trying to keep a character awake. It was rough for reading after a long day at work. I hope to read the next book in the series in 2018.
February 18, 2020
Lions, and tigers, and bears!
Well, some type of cat anyway. An interesting intro to the Providence Paranormal College series. I read Hawthorn Academy first, so had to come back and start this series once I realised it came first. I’m enjoying it and we see some darkness at the end, hinting at bigger problems. Looks to be a good series.
Well, some type of cat anyway. An interesting intro to the Providence Paranormal College series. I read Hawthorn Academy first, so had to come back and start this series once I realised it came first. I’m enjoying it and we see some darkness at the end, hinting at bigger problems. Looks to be a good series.
August 5, 2017
Thank God for fun, silly, moving books. Puns, music references, Star Wars References, a genuine look at the college experience -- it's all here, and it's all good. It's no surprise that D.R. Perry is a Dragon Award nominee this year (albeit for another book on my to-read list, A Change in Crime). If you want your shifter romance with a heavy helping of humor, look no further and be sure to hydrate so you don't exhaust yourself giggling.
April 28, 2021
The premise of this story really drew me in. It just sounded really silly. The story itself was well thought out and well written. There were times I was laughing out loud. Even though it was short, the narrative was still able to illicit some strong feelings for the characters. I appreciate that it was clean and still packed a punch. I'm excited to read the rest of this series.
April 12, 2018
Short and fun read!
I liked the characters (both main and supporting) and the story - except for the fact that one major plotline does not get resolved. Will the question of "why?" be a continuing storyline in the next book(s)?
Taking a look at some of the other books in the series, especially those featuring characters that were introduced in Bearly Awake. :)
I liked the characters (both main and supporting) and the story - except for the fact that one major plotline does not get resolved. Will the question of "why?" be a continuing storyline in the next book(s)?
Taking a look at some of the other books in the series, especially those featuring characters that were introduced in Bearly Awake. :)
June 26, 2021
Excellent read!
I highly recommend this fascinating book, and the intriguing series it begins, to readers who love college paranormal romance and mysteries. Enjoy!
I highly recommend this fascinating book, and the intriguing series it begins, to readers who love college paranormal romance and mysteries. Enjoy!
March 21, 2017
Bobby and Lynn are perfect
Bearly put the story down for even a second. It was entertaining and exciting. I am pretty sure there was a few unanswered questions that needed solved there at the end. Who is the evil bad guy ? Maybe a precursor to another story full of sinister mystery to be solved at a later date. Well done.
Bearly put the story down for even a second. It was entertaining and exciting. I am pretty sure there was a few unanswered questions that needed solved there at the end. Who is the evil bad guy ? Maybe a precursor to another story full of sinister mystery to be solved at a later date. Well done.
December 27, 2016
Bearly Awake is the first in a series of books set at Providence Paranormal College. Bobby is what’s known as a bear shifter, meaning that he can shift into the form of a bear at will - it also gives him some bear-like qualities. Lynn is a human student at the college who’s having trouble making friends. When a freak snowstorm hits, Lynn is assigned to be Bobby’s tutor and make sure he stays awake for his finals instead of hibernating.
I loved the characters in this book so much. They were lighthearted and fun, and made the sort of nerdy puns I can appreciate. They feel like the sort of people I make friends with in real life. I also really loved Maddie and I’m hoping I’ll get a chance to see more of her in the later books. There was definite sexual tension between Bobby and Lynn right from the moment they started talking though, in a good way that builds the emotion up until you’re just so eager for them to finally know how much they love each other.
Probably my biggest criticism with this book though it that it feels like we’re starting in the middle of the action. The book starts right with Bobby falling asleep in class, and it feels like I missed all the backstory on the snowfall and his grades slipping and so forth. It’s hard to feel worried for him when he’s getting threatened with flunking when I haven’t really gotten much of a chance to know him. Then he meets Lynn and they start spending all their time together, and the plot moves pretty quickly from there out. I feel like just a little more introduction would help this story out a lot.
I’m looking forward to reading the rest of this series and meeting other students at PPC. You would probably enjoy this book if you like reading lighthearted NA romance with paranormal elements. It’s a great stepping stone for those of us who grew up reading fantasy and are just starting to want to read something more adult, or to branch away from the typical epic quests.
I loved the characters in this book so much. They were lighthearted and fun, and made the sort of nerdy puns I can appreciate. They feel like the sort of people I make friends with in real life. I also really loved Maddie and I’m hoping I’ll get a chance to see more of her in the later books. There was definite sexual tension between Bobby and Lynn right from the moment they started talking though, in a good way that builds the emotion up until you’re just so eager for them to finally know how much they love each other.
Probably my biggest criticism with this book though it that it feels like we’re starting in the middle of the action. The book starts right with Bobby falling asleep in class, and it feels like I missed all the backstory on the snowfall and his grades slipping and so forth. It’s hard to feel worried for him when he’s getting threatened with flunking when I haven’t really gotten much of a chance to know him. Then he meets Lynn and they start spending all their time together, and the plot moves pretty quickly from there out. I feel like just a little more introduction would help this story out a lot.
I’m looking forward to reading the rest of this series and meeting other students at PPC. You would probably enjoy this book if you like reading lighthearted NA romance with paranormal elements. It’s a great stepping stone for those of us who grew up reading fantasy and are just starting to want to read something more adult, or to branch away from the typical epic quests.
July 19, 2017
Excellent
I loved it. Nearly laughed out loud at some points and I don't often do that while reading. It is a nice set up for a series. Looking forward to reading the next one.
I loved it. Nearly laughed out loud at some points and I don't often do that while reading. It is a nice set up for a series. Looking forward to reading the next one.
February 7, 2017
This book has it all wolf shifters, dragon shifter, fairies, vampires, bear shifter and one lone human in amongst all these extrahumans at Providence Paranormal College. This book is part of a series of books based on PPC, if this book is anything to go by for the first book in the series, you must go and get the rest of the series to read it is that worthwhile.
Lynn is the only human at a College for Paranormal extrahumans that study specialised areas within the paranormal. Lynn is assigned a fellow student and Bear shifter Bobby from the South to help him prepare for his final exam before the winter break. Lynn’s job is to keep Bobby awake for the next few days and to prepare him for the exam before he falls into hibernation for the winter. Both Lynn and Bobby get more than they bargain for. Both from their now found friends and each other.
This would not be a Paranormal Romance without a little love, but it is delivered so well that it just flows with the story as natural as a slow running stream. There is intimacy in the story but it is limited mentions and is subtle in its delivery. The Author clearly does not want the intimacy to be the focal point of the romance between the two lovers, but to focus on what is happening around them and with them.
There is a hidden villain in this book that leaves an air of mystery to the story as the friends try to find out who is behind it as there have been the use of magi throughout the history of the College to cause such events described in this book.
The Night creatures band are a scream for a bunch of college student vampires
The Author has created a world in this novel that you just fall in love with and get sucked right along with the characters to the point when you return to reality from the Halls and walls of PPC life has just got that little much dimmer. The Author has been that detailed and descriptive in her setting of the scenes virtually creating a clear visual for the reader to see.
The writing in this book shows that not only does the author have an amazing talent and creative mind but also research has gone into this book, with a lot of thought processing into creating just the right balance of paranormal with romance.
Lynn is the only human at a College for Paranormal extrahumans that study specialised areas within the paranormal. Lynn is assigned a fellow student and Bear shifter Bobby from the South to help him prepare for his final exam before the winter break. Lynn’s job is to keep Bobby awake for the next few days and to prepare him for the exam before he falls into hibernation for the winter. Both Lynn and Bobby get more than they bargain for. Both from their now found friends and each other.
This would not be a Paranormal Romance without a little love, but it is delivered so well that it just flows with the story as natural as a slow running stream. There is intimacy in the story but it is limited mentions and is subtle in its delivery. The Author clearly does not want the intimacy to be the focal point of the romance between the two lovers, but to focus on what is happening around them and with them.
There is a hidden villain in this book that leaves an air of mystery to the story as the friends try to find out who is behind it as there have been the use of magi throughout the history of the College to cause such events described in this book.
The Night creatures band are a scream for a bunch of college student vampires
The Author has created a world in this novel that you just fall in love with and get sucked right along with the characters to the point when you return to reality from the Halls and walls of PPC life has just got that little much dimmer. The Author has been that detailed and descriptive in her setting of the scenes virtually creating a clear visual for the reader to see.
The writing in this book shows that not only does the author have an amazing talent and creative mind but also research has gone into this book, with a lot of thought processing into creating just the right balance of paranormal with romance.
June 12, 2017
A pleasant student romance, this book was an easy read in every sense - well-drawn, likable characters, a nicely familiar setting and smooth, competent writing. I liked the way the characters grew through their experiences, and with the college setting, the way is left open for sequelae without the necessity of a cliffhanger ending, allowing a very satisfying resolution for the two protagonists of this book. I'll certainly read more in this series.
April 4, 2017
When I read the description of Bearly Awake, I must admit that I was intrigued. I have always been a fan of a shape-shifting character such as Beorn from the Middle Earth universe. Thus, the cover was the first thing that drew me in. The description made me think of a shape-shifting story set in a school much like Hogwarts.
First off, I liked the play on the name Barely and Bearly. I thought it was a clever title for this book.
Bearly Awake is told in first person narrative. It does switch from character to character, but Perry does list the character’s name that viewpoint is in at the beginning of the chapter. I find that the character jumps are very easy to keep track of due to this.
I found this novella to be well-written and descriptive. Despite how well-written it was, there were some grammar issues, but not much. The style and rhythm of the text were easy to follow. I would have liked a wider variety of words. For example, I found this snippet of a paragraph to be very repetitive. “There more books and we can check out and hit the dining hall.” The other books I wanted were all in easy reach behind me.
I loved the characters. When we are introduced to Bobby in the first chapter, we learn that he is a shifter, and much like the image on the cover, I guessed that he would be able to morph into a bear. From his actions in the beginning part of the first chapter, I inferred that shifters take on some aspects of his or her animal. For example, Bobby is exhausted and can sniff out if someone was a human or not. But, then as the chapter progressed, I learned that I was wrong about that.
I found the pacing of Bearly Awake to be much too slow for my liking. I did like how real world pop culture was thrown in. It made the story somewhat relatable, but there were times where it came across heavy handed.
While I loved the character building, I would have liked to know more about the intricacies for PCC. I found that one or two sentences devoted to PCC do not give me enough incentive to care about the going-ons of the magic school. In fact, to me, this made the world around the characters feel flat.
Overall, this is a very easy read. I would recommend Bearly Awake to any student between the ages of twelve to eighteen who yearns for a paranormal romance.
First off, I liked the play on the name Barely and Bearly. I thought it was a clever title for this book.
Bearly Awake is told in first person narrative. It does switch from character to character, but Perry does list the character’s name that viewpoint is in at the beginning of the chapter. I find that the character jumps are very easy to keep track of due to this.
I found this novella to be well-written and descriptive. Despite how well-written it was, there were some grammar issues, but not much. The style and rhythm of the text were easy to follow. I would have liked a wider variety of words. For example, I found this snippet of a paragraph to be very repetitive. “There more books and we can check out and hit the dining hall.” The other books I wanted were all in easy reach behind me.
I loved the characters. When we are introduced to Bobby in the first chapter, we learn that he is a shifter, and much like the image on the cover, I guessed that he would be able to morph into a bear. From his actions in the beginning part of the first chapter, I inferred that shifters take on some aspects of his or her animal. For example, Bobby is exhausted and can sniff out if someone was a human or not. But, then as the chapter progressed, I learned that I was wrong about that.
I found the pacing of Bearly Awake to be much too slow for my liking. I did like how real world pop culture was thrown in. It made the story somewhat relatable, but there were times where it came across heavy handed.
While I loved the character building, I would have liked to know more about the intricacies for PCC. I found that one or two sentences devoted to PCC do not give me enough incentive to care about the going-ons of the magic school. In fact, to me, this made the world around the characters feel flat.
Overall, this is a very easy read. I would recommend Bearly Awake to any student between the ages of twelve to eighteen who yearns for a paranormal romance.
June 6, 2017
Good YA
Enjoyable romp an American college for the paranormal and humans. A were bear wants to hibernate but has to stay awake for his exams
Enjoyable romp an American college for the paranormal and humans. A were bear wants to hibernate but has to stay awake for his exams
April 11, 2016
An early snowfall has caused Bobby Tremain's bear side want to hibernate. The problem? It is the week before finals at Providence Paranormal College. Being the first in his shapeshifting family to attend college, he wants to make his parents proud. Now if only he could stay awake.
Lynn Frampton is brilliant and knows what it takes to excel at school. Unfortunately, her sarcastic sense of humor and inability to hold back caustic remarks seems to keep her from making any friends at all.
Lynn is assigned to help Bobby pass Ecology by Professor Watkins. Seeing him as only a way to gain extra credit, she does her best. In the process, she actually makes friends and Bobby believes he's found his mate. But he has to stay awake to find out.
Barely Awake weighs in as a novella, however, D.R. Perry makes sure her characters grab you for the duration of the story. Keeping the focus tight on Lynn and Bobby, you don't end up lost by an influx of characters.
The viewpoint is all first person, but goes back and forth between Bobby and Lynn. Each change is clearly marked and, because their viewpoints and behavior are so different, it's easy to keep track of who is speaking.
There are a few scenes in this book that keep it out of the realm of children. It's not overly explicit, but it is obvious what's going on.
My biggest complaint about this book is it's too short! That's usually my reaction to novellas I am enjoying reading. I wanted to know more about some of the other characters we were introduced to and a wee bit more depth in one area (it's near the end, so that's all you get). However, this is a series, so we'll see them all again. I can't wait to see who D.R. Perry takes us to meet next. What I do know is I will be right there waiting for the next book to release.
Lynn Frampton is brilliant and knows what it takes to excel at school. Unfortunately, her sarcastic sense of humor and inability to hold back caustic remarks seems to keep her from making any friends at all.
Lynn is assigned to help Bobby pass Ecology by Professor Watkins. Seeing him as only a way to gain extra credit, she does her best. In the process, she actually makes friends and Bobby believes he's found his mate. But he has to stay awake to find out.
Barely Awake weighs in as a novella, however, D.R. Perry makes sure her characters grab you for the duration of the story. Keeping the focus tight on Lynn and Bobby, you don't end up lost by an influx of characters.
The viewpoint is all first person, but goes back and forth between Bobby and Lynn. Each change is clearly marked and, because their viewpoints and behavior are so different, it's easy to keep track of who is speaking.
There are a few scenes in this book that keep it out of the realm of children. It's not overly explicit, but it is obvious what's going on.
My biggest complaint about this book is it's too short! That's usually my reaction to novellas I am enjoying reading. I wanted to know more about some of the other characters we were introduced to and a wee bit more depth in one area (it's near the end, so that's all you get). However, this is a series, so we'll see them all again. I can't wait to see who D.R. Perry takes us to meet next. What I do know is I will be right there waiting for the next book to release.
March 11, 2018
A fun, quick read. This first introduction into D.R. Perry's world was more entertaining than I expected it to be: I went into this series cold, with nothing but a quick glance at the summary to go on in the beginning.
First impression? Buffy and the original gang go to college...without the slaying and everyone has abilities but are more angsty about grades than they are about their own "special skills."
Like I said: fun. And it left me ready for Book 2.
Full disclosure: I read this book as a part of the ARC review of the new collection Providence Paranormal College Books 1 - 5. I received a free copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.
First impression? Buffy and the original gang go to college...without the slaying and everyone has abilities but are more angsty about grades than they are about their own "special skills."
Like I said: fun. And it left me ready for Book 2.
Full disclosure: I read this book as a part of the ARC review of the new collection Providence Paranormal College Books 1 - 5. I received a free copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.
August 31, 2017
A 90 page freebie from the NOOK store.
This is a New Adult romance with a paranormal twist; all the students at PPC are Extrahuman except for the heroine, who is just a plain old human. There isn't much angst in the back stories of either the heroine or hero, so its much fluffier than the typical NA romance. Lynn (the heroine) was an obnoxious twat of character and I disliked being in her head (which was every other chapter, and first POV to boot); at the beginning of the book she is a loner due to her extreme "I'm not like other girls/I'm not girlie" syndrome. After sex one time with the hero, she turns to mush and all she can think about is her lover. Bobby (the hero) is a bear shifter from Louisiana going to college in Rhode Island and his inner bear is not adapting to the colder climate. Via Bobby's roommate, Blaine (dragon shifter), and Lynn, we come to find out Bobby's urge to hibernate is because his inner bear wants his mate because of course. Bobby is about to fail out of college due to his hibernation urges and needs one good grade on a final exam to keep him in school. Lynn is voluntold to tutor him over the weekend and also keep him from sleeping/hibernating until after the exam is over. Bobby was a sweet beta who I really liked; Blaine seems like he would be a fun hero in a future story.
Although I disliked the heroine, I did believe in the HEA because Bobby and Lynn seemed very happy with each other. There is A LOT of formatting errors and typos. A good concept that needs a copy editor to refine the execution of that concept.
June 9, 2016
Barely Awake
By D.R. Perry
I was lucky enough to win a copy from the author.
I am a paperback girl and it takes me a little longer to read eBook versions of any novel. I am sorry I waited so long before sitting down and reading Barely Awake in one session.
This Novella is a romantic paranormal comedy which takes place in a college setting. There are two main characters and the book shifts between their points of view in such a natural way that it adds to the enjoyment of the story line.
The main female character is a misunderstood young woman looking for someway to connect with other people. The main male character is a bear-shifter who can't seem to stay awake long enough to pass his courses because of his bear's hibernation urges. The two are thrown together at the beginning of the novel as tutor and student. The romance part of this novella particularly enjoyable, as it is beautifully written without being overbearing.
D.R. Perry's style has just the right amount of emotion to make you laugh, sigh, and keep the pages turning. My only complaint was that the book isn't longer. I will be purchasing the paperback form for my personal library and look forward to the rest of the series.
I would recommend Barely Awake with the highest rating possible to anyone who enjoys paranormal characters, especially shifters outside of the norm and to anyone who enjoys a heartwarming romance.
If I could give more than 5 stars I would.
By D.R. Perry
I was lucky enough to win a copy from the author.
I am a paperback girl and it takes me a little longer to read eBook versions of any novel. I am sorry I waited so long before sitting down and reading Barely Awake in one session.
This Novella is a romantic paranormal comedy which takes place in a college setting. There are two main characters and the book shifts between their points of view in such a natural way that it adds to the enjoyment of the story line.
The main female character is a misunderstood young woman looking for someway to connect with other people. The main male character is a bear-shifter who can't seem to stay awake long enough to pass his courses because of his bear's hibernation urges. The two are thrown together at the beginning of the novel as tutor and student. The romance part of this novella particularly enjoyable, as it is beautifully written without being overbearing.
D.R. Perry's style has just the right amount of emotion to make you laugh, sigh, and keep the pages turning. My only complaint was that the book isn't longer. I will be purchasing the paperback form for my personal library and look forward to the rest of the series.
I would recommend Barely Awake with the highest rating possible to anyone who enjoys paranormal characters, especially shifters outside of the norm and to anyone who enjoys a heartwarming romance.
If I could give more than 5 stars I would.
November 10, 2016
Bobby Tremain has problems: the sky is dumping feets of snow and his Louisianna accustomed bear can’t handle it. It’s time to hibernate. Unfortunately, he can’t sleep straight through winter until spring. He’s got an important test that determines whether he flunks out of Providence Paranormal College.
In comes Lynn. Sarcastic Lynn who has always chased people away. She’s determined to help Bobby not go to sleep and to pass his test—and not only because it will affect her grade. Or, so she comes to realize.
Bearly Awake was a book filled to the brim with humor, sarcasm, and geeky/nerdy jokes. I found myself laughing more than I thought possible at the interactions. There were times it was sweet and serious, and the going into and out of these moments into funnier ones wasn’t the least bit rough.
I loved the characters. From mains Bobby and Lynn, to side characters! Blaine, Henry, and Maddie are my favories, even if Maddie is more mentioned and only seen properly once. Jeannie comes in close behind them.
The characters were enjoyable and three-dimensional. I was immediately drawn into the conflict because of their personalities and relationships.
If you’re looking for a sweet, short paranormal romance, I definitely recommend Bearly Awake by D.R. Perry.
In comes Lynn. Sarcastic Lynn who has always chased people away. She’s determined to help Bobby not go to sleep and to pass his test—and not only because it will affect her grade. Or, so she comes to realize.
Bearly Awake was a book filled to the brim with humor, sarcasm, and geeky/nerdy jokes. I found myself laughing more than I thought possible at the interactions. There were times it was sweet and serious, and the going into and out of these moments into funnier ones wasn’t the least bit rough.
I loved the characters. From mains Bobby and Lynn, to side characters! Blaine, Henry, and Maddie are my favories, even if Maddie is more mentioned and only seen properly once. Jeannie comes in close behind them.
The characters were enjoyable and three-dimensional. I was immediately drawn into the conflict because of their personalities and relationships.
If you’re looking for a sweet, short paranormal romance, I definitely recommend Bearly Awake by D.R. Perry.
June 9, 2016
Barely Awake was a wonderful, fast read that had me smiling and laughing out loud. Bobby is a bear shifter whose bear is trying to hibernate unseasonably early. It’s his first semester at the college and he can’t afford to fail and get kicked out. Lynn is an outcast who can’t keep her quick wit and sharp tongue under wraps despite desperately wanting a friend. Their teacher offers Lynn extra credit if she helps Bobby pass their final and she’s determined to help him. Circumstances change as does their relationship. I enjoyed the characters, all unique and fun to get to know. I will definitely be checking out more by this author and recommend this book to anyone wanting a light, fun, and fast read!
May 7, 2016
***THIS BOOK WAS PROVIDED BY THE PUBLISHER/AUTHOR IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW**
Barely Awake by D.R. Perry is a fun little story about a southern brown bear shifter, who has to fight his hibernation instincts before finals, after an early snow at his northern Ivy League School.
Bobby Tremaine is the first member of his family to go away to school. If he can't stay awake, he's going to flunk. Right out of school.
Lynn Frampton is a human who wants to study extrahumans far from home where everyone knows her as the weirdo.
This story is a unique take on bear shifters, finding mates, and college love.
**Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official.
Barely Awake by D.R. Perry is a fun little story about a southern brown bear shifter, who has to fight his hibernation instincts before finals, after an early snow at his northern Ivy League School.
Bobby Tremaine is the first member of his family to go away to school. If he can't stay awake, he's going to flunk. Right out of school.
Lynn Frampton is a human who wants to study extrahumans far from home where everyone knows her as the weirdo.
This story is a unique take on bear shifters, finding mates, and college love.
**Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official.
August 2, 2016
this one was very sweet. I was surprised that the scenes with intimacy were handled so strangely. now I'm not saying I need raunchy sex scenes every time I read a story but the first time the characters in this story get intimate I felt like I had whiplash or something... it didn't even really hint at romance... I don't know it was just slightly confusing... anyways.... the second encounter between the two was a bit better though. the overall story was awesome though. I loved all the supporting characters and found myself wanting to read everyone's PPC experience.
August 27, 2016
Worth your time
This is a fun read. The characters have some depth, the world building is well done and the plot has enough complexity to hold your interest. The idea of a paranormal college is a nice twist. I recommend not only this book but the rest of the series: it's a nice touch to keep a cast of characters bringing different ones forward as the focus of each story. A light read but very enjoyable.
This is a fun read. The characters have some depth, the world building is well done and the plot has enough complexity to hold your interest. The idea of a paranormal college is a nice twist. I recommend not only this book but the rest of the series: it's a nice touch to keep a cast of characters bringing different ones forward as the focus of each story. A light read but very enjoyable.
April 5, 2017
Fun and intriguing story read in one evening. The private college in New England centers around parahumans but does have ordinary human students as well. The insecure nerd girl from Wisconsin has to tutor the hunky bear shifter from Louisiana who responds to the snowstorms by nearly going into hibernation right before exams. There are a lot of interesting fellow students and it is definitely an interesting and twisty plot. I really enjoyed it and highly recommend it.
February 25, 2018
Didn't feel like it was poking fun at romance too much in my opinion. Felt like a sweet love story with a bunch of fun, nerdy easter eggs. Cute. Enjoyable.
April 9, 2016
The characters felt real and the story draws you along. The romance was cute but not over "bearing" and it was nice shift away from the darker stuff that seems to be dominating the market. As I finished I found myself wanting more.
Luckily this is the first in a series set in Providence Paranormal College.
Luckily this is the first in a series set in Providence Paranormal College.
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