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Eluding Destiny #1
Eluding Destiny
Being the most powerful Fae Angel hybrid the world has ever seen seems like a good time. Having a soulmate doesn't seem too bad either. For the most part? Laila's pretty happy to be that girl. Until the best parts of her life are ripped out from beneath her.
In just a few days, everything in Laila's life changes. The brother she never knew existed shows up from the Fae Realm looking for her and their mother. Her once perfect love life crumbles in the blink of an eye. If things aren't hard enough already, her oldest family friend is murdered too. And the nosy detective in town is pointing fingers Laila’s way.
Is it all connected? How could it be?
She saw what Jeremy did with her own eyes. Well, in someone else’s memories, but she still saw it. Why is she questioning it? Why can’t she shake the feeling that there’s more to all of this than she can see?
Things started to go array before her brother entered the picture. And he seems nice enough. Surely, it can’t be his fault. But what else could it all boil down to?
Or rather… Who could it boil down to?
In just a few days, everything in Laila's life changes. The brother she never knew existed shows up from the Fae Realm looking for her and their mother. Her once perfect love life crumbles in the blink of an eye. If things aren't hard enough already, her oldest family friend is murdered too. And the nosy detective in town is pointing fingers Laila’s way.
Is it all connected? How could it be?
She saw what Jeremy did with her own eyes. Well, in someone else’s memories, but she still saw it. Why is she questioning it? Why can’t she shake the feeling that there’s more to all of this than she can see?
Things started to go array before her brother entered the picture. And he seems nice enough. Surely, it can’t be his fault. But what else could it all boil down to?
Or rather… Who could it boil down to?
Kindle Edition
Published September 1, 2021
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May 22, 2021🎁 FREE on Amazon today (5/22/2021)! 🎁
June 12, 2021
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you Charlie for writing this book. This book is an intriguing twist on the normal paranormal tropes. I loved the concept of fae-angel hybrids and wished there was more of it in the book. I am a sucker for all things paranormal so this made me happy even though sometimes I found myself shouting at Laila and Jeremy to get their act together (signs that you are totally invested in the book and being completely disappointed that the book did not magically listen to you :p)
Overall, I enjoyed it and will not say much because I don't want to give anything away.
If you enjoy paranormal books or looking for something with an interesting twist than I would highly recommend this book to you.
4 out of 5 stars.
Thank you Charlie for writing this book. This book is an intriguing twist on the normal paranormal tropes. I loved the concept of fae-angel hybrids and wished there was more of it in the book. I am a sucker for all things paranormal so this made me happy even though sometimes I found myself shouting at Laila and Jeremy to get their act together (signs that you are totally invested in the book and being completely disappointed that the book did not magically listen to you :p)
Overall, I enjoyed it and will not say much because I don't want to give anything away.
If you enjoy paranormal books or looking for something with an interesting twist than I would highly recommend this book to you.
4 out of 5 stars.
January 30, 2021
Unique storyline
When it comes to books about Fae and soul mates, we tend to see a lot of the same things regurgitated in different words, but this story was refreshing with it's unique plot.
When it comes to books about Fae and soul mates, we tend to see a lot of the same things regurgitated in different words, but this story was refreshing with it's unique plot.
May 8, 2021
Absolutely riveting
This book kept me from sleep! Lol. I seriously couldn't put it down.
I love the teasers throughout of 'more to come'. I figured out a key part (no spoilers) but that didn't change my enjoyment of it.
I am very much a fledging writer and this was inspiring. Fantastic, visual writing. I want to know everything about all of these characters. Off to explore what is next!
This was my first book from Charlie Nottingham and I'm sold.
This book kept me from sleep! Lol. I seriously couldn't put it down.
I love the teasers throughout of 'more to come'. I figured out a key part (no spoilers) but that didn't change my enjoyment of it.
I am very much a fledging writer and this was inspiring. Fantastic, visual writing. I want to know everything about all of these characters. Off to explore what is next!
This was my first book from Charlie Nottingham and I'm sold.
March 1, 2021
I took longer than I planned with this book. I felt like that I had to take my time. So much happened than I was expecting. Not so much as battles like most fantasy novels. But betrayals. Murders. Plots we couldn't have fathom. our main character leans quickly that when it rains, it pours. As she tries to sort through a family secret and a betrayal, she has to focus on the tasks at hand while solving a murder too. None of this is what I was expecting when I agreed to read this book.
Would definitely recommend and now have to get book 2.
I read this book by request for a review. It was not agreed that the review would be in favor to the book. I am not compensated for my reviews.
Would definitely recommend and now have to get book 2.
I read this book by request for a review. It was not agreed that the review would be in favor to the book. I am not compensated for my reviews.
January 5, 2024
Do not start this series if you do not have a big chunk of time to read. You will not want to put it down. This story is compelling.
Make sure to heed the trigger warnings. This is not light easy reading. Tense and surprising twists.
Make sure to heed the trigger warnings. This is not light easy reading. Tense and surprising twists.
March 1, 2021
Wow!
I absolutely loved this book. I can’t wait to read the next one and see what happens with the characters.
I absolutely loved this book. I can’t wait to read the next one and see what happens with the characters.
February 22, 2021
This book is an amazing start to this series. Charlie pulls you and keeps you on the edge of your seat trying to help solve the mysteries. Can't wait to read the full series to find out more about the characters and the battles they face.
February 11, 2021
Angels and fey Oh My!!!!!!
I have this book 5 stars I love the characters and a different view on Angels. OH MY GOD yes I said Angels. I couldn't put it down I believe I read it in 3 days. I recommend this book to anybody who loves a good out of this world, mind blowing adventure.
I have this book 5 stars I love the characters and a different view on Angels. OH MY GOD yes I said Angels. I couldn't put it down I believe I read it in 3 days. I recommend this book to anybody who loves a good out of this world, mind blowing adventure.
December 14, 2020
Wow so I blitzed this as soon as I finished work today. I honestly couldn’t put it down.
Jeremy and Laila are what we would call soulmates but in the supernatural world they are called par animarum. The legend is that when a fated pair bond like they have, they will be unstoppable and their power together could literally create or destroy worlds.
Laila has had a hard life but the one shining light is Jeremy. He is the love of her life and her best friend. Up until they met she thought she was a normal human girl but when they slept together for the first time it broke a power binding spell her father placed on her as a baby. She is a very powerful hybrid and for the last 2 years she has been using her powers as a Guardian along with Jeremy and his brothers and sisters. Supernaturals each with various gifts working for Angels to protect humanity against demons, vampires and other nasties out there. They all live and fight together as one happy family. Unfortunately that happiness won’t be for long. Laila’s world is about to be turned upside down. There will be death, lies and unthinkable betrayals by those closest to her. My heart felt spilt open! There are twists and turns and ups and downs just like a rollercoaster and just as thrilling!
I honestly can’t wait for more!
This will be a series of books but don’t worry there is no cliffhanger ending. It just leaves you with an overwhelming thirst for more from these characters. 5/5 top marks ❤️
Jeremy and Laila are what we would call soulmates but in the supernatural world they are called par animarum. The legend is that when a fated pair bond like they have, they will be unstoppable and their power together could literally create or destroy worlds.
Laila has had a hard life but the one shining light is Jeremy. He is the love of her life and her best friend. Up until they met she thought she was a normal human girl but when they slept together for the first time it broke a power binding spell her father placed on her as a baby. She is a very powerful hybrid and for the last 2 years she has been using her powers as a Guardian along with Jeremy and his brothers and sisters. Supernaturals each with various gifts working for Angels to protect humanity against demons, vampires and other nasties out there. They all live and fight together as one happy family. Unfortunately that happiness won’t be for long. Laila’s world is about to be turned upside down. There will be death, lies and unthinkable betrayals by those closest to her. My heart felt spilt open! There are twists and turns and ups and downs just like a rollercoaster and just as thrilling!
I honestly can’t wait for more!
This will be a series of books but don’t worry there is no cliffhanger ending. It just leaves you with an overwhelming thirst for more from these characters. 5/5 top marks ❤️
January 27, 2021
Good book. Left a cliffhanger which makes you want to read the next one.
January 24, 2021
READ IT!
I was kinda iffy when I started this book, because I wasn't sure I liked the writing style, but I fell in love with it quickly. The details drew you in and transport you to their world, made you feel their happiness, their pain, their heartache and their fear. I got lost in this book and finished it quicker than I've been able to finish a book in weeks, and I normally read 1 or 2 books a day. Can't wait to read the rest of the series!
I was kinda iffy when I started this book, because I wasn't sure I liked the writing style, but I fell in love with it quickly. The details drew you in and transport you to their world, made you feel their happiness, their pain, their heartache and their fear. I got lost in this book and finished it quicker than I've been able to finish a book in weeks, and I normally read 1 or 2 books a day. Can't wait to read the rest of the series!
March 31, 2021
Absolutely loved this book. The story hooked me from the very beginning. Laila giving backstory was great and the foreshadowing, OMG, I cannot wait to get the next one! I couldn't put it down.
April 1, 2021
I read the prequel and thought i knew what was going to happen..nope there are so many pot twist and secrets that make u keep reading to figure all out once you do it make since... It such a good rollercoaster ride... I cant wait to the next one... Even tho he a side character i like adam he such a great friend.
December 9, 2020
Powerful writing from this author! I really loved the characters and the way you have to unfold the mystery while people are sliced, diced and other stuff I won’t mention on here. Loved it. Highly recommended for paranormal fantasy readers!
December 19, 2020
Loved it!!!! Was very hard for me to put the book down when it was time for work!!! Can’t wait to see what happens next....
December 8, 2021
I was given a copy of this book by the author for review. This review is mostly spoilers.
This is the second book I have read from Charlie Nottingham, the first being The Last Beginning, the prequel to this book.
The same story continues, based in the same mythos, with the promise of suffering from the epilogue of the last book. The only issue I have in regards to the writing, is when the author switches from telling the story to speaking in the present. It’s usually some foreshadowing, and it does build intrigue, but the shifts have no denotation, and it can take me out of the story. It only happens a handful of times though.
I like how Charlie makes Leah and Laila friends without the weird animosity that some authors have in the same types of friendships. Unfortunately, Leah and Jeremy’s brother, Brody, has feelings for Laila. I’m assuming this was to serve as the reasoning that Laila finds out about Jeremy’s “indiscretion” in the most painful way possible, which tracks.
Mary calls them all together to discuss a breach on their plane. During this meeting is when Laila sees Jeremy sleeping with another girl in Brody’s mind, after he had hinted several times. Laila is understandably mad and hurt, so she ends things.
She then discovers the breach was her brother, a surprise twin in fact. Kai had been raised in the fae realm, and barely knew their father. Neither know their mother. It turns out, though, that both their “mothers” and Moe all know who their mother is. Mary is determined that they do not look, as it is dangerous, and no one will help them.
They continue to look for her anyway. Jeremy almost dies in a wreck orchestrated by the same person who kills Moe, before he has a chance to talk to Laila. They connect that the same person got Adriene to try to kill Laila and put the girl, a siren, up to sleeping with Jeremy. They also killed her later. This same person shape shifts into Laila’s mother, and steals Moe’s journal from her.
After the siren attempts to seduce pretty much everyone, including Laila, she and Jeremy make up. They each feel bad about the parts they played in each other’s misery and agree to put it behind them. I have a feeling the suffering is just beginning. Before they make up, Jeremy teleports them to Venice, and they went to a hotel. My note said “Play stupid games, win stupid prizes.”
Leah also finds out that Laila has agreed to work with a cop, Rodriguez, to help him find out information about his missing wife and daughter in exchange for help with Moe’s case.
Through their research, they attempt scrying for the wife and daughter, and the spell doesn’t work. The map won’t alight. They discover that the same thing happens when they try to locate Chris, their brother. Jeremy and Leah get into a fight about it, and they both say some hurtful things. When Mary comes by the house to talk about what Leah has found, she encourages them to let it go, as it could be very dangerous. Leah gives her the finger, and Laila dives in. Then Mary says something that triggers a memory for Laila, and she realizes it was Mary the whole time, and she is her mother.
I have to admit that I suspected Kai of being up to something, but so far, it seems he’s an alright guy.
Before Moe’s funeral, Laila overhears an archangel, Raguel, talking with Leah about how Mary will only get a slap on the wrist, understandably infuriating them. Then we get the foreshadowing that Laila should have killed him then, and the insinuation that they had met before, perhaps in another life.
At the funeral, Laila’s mother, Rachel confronts Mary. Nothing violent happens. Mary then tells Laila that she is trying to protect her from the future and huge amounts of suffering, but it could be too late, because Laila is pregnant (the stupid prize from the stupid game). Mary denies trying to kill Jeremy, only slow him down. She is obviously concerned, but she has an inhuman way of going about showing it. She also insinuates that Laila will do terrible things to protect her children in the future. Laila also suggests this at the end.
While Jeremy is happy that he is going to be a father, kids always muck things up in books for me. The first two have been great, beyond the usual fairy bs being published now, so I remain hopeful for the next one.
TL;DR Worth the read
This is the second book I have read from Charlie Nottingham, the first being The Last Beginning, the prequel to this book.
The same story continues, based in the same mythos, with the promise of suffering from the epilogue of the last book. The only issue I have in regards to the writing, is when the author switches from telling the story to speaking in the present. It’s usually some foreshadowing, and it does build intrigue, but the shifts have no denotation, and it can take me out of the story. It only happens a handful of times though.
I like how Charlie makes Leah and Laila friends without the weird animosity that some authors have in the same types of friendships. Unfortunately, Leah and Jeremy’s brother, Brody, has feelings for Laila. I’m assuming this was to serve as the reasoning that Laila finds out about Jeremy’s “indiscretion” in the most painful way possible, which tracks.
Mary calls them all together to discuss a breach on their plane. During this meeting is when Laila sees Jeremy sleeping with another girl in Brody’s mind, after he had hinted several times. Laila is understandably mad and hurt, so she ends things.
She then discovers the breach was her brother, a surprise twin in fact. Kai had been raised in the fae realm, and barely knew their father. Neither know their mother. It turns out, though, that both their “mothers” and Moe all know who their mother is. Mary is determined that they do not look, as it is dangerous, and no one will help them.
They continue to look for her anyway. Jeremy almost dies in a wreck orchestrated by the same person who kills Moe, before he has a chance to talk to Laila. They connect that the same person got Adriene to try to kill Laila and put the girl, a siren, up to sleeping with Jeremy. They also killed her later. This same person shape shifts into Laila’s mother, and steals Moe’s journal from her.
After the siren attempts to seduce pretty much everyone, including Laila, she and Jeremy make up. They each feel bad about the parts they played in each other’s misery and agree to put it behind them. I have a feeling the suffering is just beginning. Before they make up, Jeremy teleports them to Venice, and they went to a hotel. My note said “Play stupid games, win stupid prizes.”
Leah also finds out that Laila has agreed to work with a cop, Rodriguez, to help him find out information about his missing wife and daughter in exchange for help with Moe’s case.
Through their research, they attempt scrying for the wife and daughter, and the spell doesn’t work. The map won’t alight. They discover that the same thing happens when they try to locate Chris, their brother. Jeremy and Leah get into a fight about it, and they both say some hurtful things. When Mary comes by the house to talk about what Leah has found, she encourages them to let it go, as it could be very dangerous. Leah gives her the finger, and Laila dives in. Then Mary says something that triggers a memory for Laila, and she realizes it was Mary the whole time, and she is her mother.
I have to admit that I suspected Kai of being up to something, but so far, it seems he’s an alright guy.
Before Moe’s funeral, Laila overhears an archangel, Raguel, talking with Leah about how Mary will only get a slap on the wrist, understandably infuriating them. Then we get the foreshadowing that Laila should have killed him then, and the insinuation that they had met before, perhaps in another life.
At the funeral, Laila’s mother, Rachel confronts Mary. Nothing violent happens. Mary then tells Laila that she is trying to protect her from the future and huge amounts of suffering, but it could be too late, because Laila is pregnant (the stupid prize from the stupid game). Mary denies trying to kill Jeremy, only slow him down. She is obviously concerned, but she has an inhuman way of going about showing it. She also insinuates that Laila will do terrible things to protect her children in the future. Laila also suggests this at the end.
While Jeremy is happy that he is going to be a father, kids always muck things up in books for me. The first two have been great, beyond the usual fairy bs being published now, so I remain hopeful for the next one.
TL;DR Worth the read
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 21, 2021
Ok 1st issue: why does there have to be cheating in the plot line. Currently 32% through the book and I can't seem to understand why. She would have gone to work and most likely met her brother without the cheating.
2nd Jack Daniel's IS THE CHEAP whiskey. To imply that she was drinking bottom of the barrel but say that there jack in there doesn't make sense. Either the author isn't a drinker or doesn't drink whiskey. If so she would have known that there other better whiskeys. Tullamore Dew and Jameson to name two. And both twice the price of jack Daniel's which is priced at $15.
UPDATE: 38% of the way thru and I kinda understand the cheating. Trying to figure out what and who wants to hurt Laila so badly that they would block out her boyfriends memory or make it fuzzy as to the HOW he ended up cheating. The twin brother is and interesting plot twist. Waiting to see where that goes. Is he the reason everyone is dying or trying to hurt Laila? And Moe? Really we had to kill Moe? Yeah he may have been on the verge of spilling his guts about her bio mom but still. Why do we have to hurt with a murder while dealing with our cheating soulmate?
Update: 69% of the way thru. I really wanted Laila to kill Ally. She remembered what happened. And fed them lies about it. But now I know why Jeremy's memory was super fuzzy there. It was like he was drugged. Sirens. The minute Laila walked in Adam's room and got caught up I knew Ally was a siren. And Hannah liking Kai is amazing.
78% and we finally have better whiskey than Jack Daniel's. Not saying Jack is bad. But it's definitely not a pricey whiskey.
84% And Ally's dead. Thank goodness. She probably wasn't a bad person, just in a shitty situation but she didn't need legs. She could have had morals. And now the looking for Ramirez' family and the scrying spells not working and the same thing with their brother. Definitely weird. Can't wait to find out what's causing it.
89% I knew it had to be Mary. She seemed to sketchy even for how angels are portrayed in this story. I knew there was a reason I didn't like her. Didn't trust her.
Finished and I can't wait for the next one.
2nd Jack Daniel's IS THE CHEAP whiskey. To imply that she was drinking bottom of the barrel but say that there jack in there doesn't make sense. Either the author isn't a drinker or doesn't drink whiskey. If so she would have known that there other better whiskeys. Tullamore Dew and Jameson to name two. And both twice the price of jack Daniel's which is priced at $15.
UPDATE: 38% of the way thru and I kinda understand the cheating. Trying to figure out what and who wants to hurt Laila so badly that they would block out her boyfriends memory or make it fuzzy as to the HOW he ended up cheating. The twin brother is and interesting plot twist. Waiting to see where that goes. Is he the reason everyone is dying or trying to hurt Laila? And Moe? Really we had to kill Moe? Yeah he may have been on the verge of spilling his guts about her bio mom but still. Why do we have to hurt with a murder while dealing with our cheating soulmate?
Update: 69% of the way thru. I really wanted Laila to kill Ally. She remembered what happened. And fed them lies about it. But now I know why Jeremy's memory was super fuzzy there. It was like he was drugged. Sirens. The minute Laila walked in Adam's room and got caught up I knew Ally was a siren. And Hannah liking Kai is amazing.
78% and we finally have better whiskey than Jack Daniel's. Not saying Jack is bad. But it's definitely not a pricey whiskey.
84% And Ally's dead. Thank goodness. She probably wasn't a bad person, just in a shitty situation but she didn't need legs. She could have had morals. And now the looking for Ramirez' family and the scrying spells not working and the same thing with their brother. Definitely weird. Can't wait to find out what's causing it.
89% I knew it had to be Mary. She seemed to sketchy even for how angels are portrayed in this story. I knew there was a reason I didn't like her. Didn't trust her.
Finished and I can't wait for the next one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 3, 2021
Angels and Guardians and Fae, OH MY!
Add a little sprinkle of Demon for spice, a pinch of
werewolf for sweet, and a cup of human for that extra
salt to bring out all of the flavors. What do you get? A
huge world space with so much room for all kinds of
characters. This story has an adorable cinnamon roll
male lead and salty little ball of sunshine ☀️ for a female
lead.
Oh wow! If you haven’t read book 0, I definitely recommend that first. Book 0 let me get to know the characters and bond with them before all the drama starts. (Don’t worry there’s still drama in book 0 👍)
NOW ON TO BOOK 1!
This one immediately hit me in the chest and I felt completely betrayed. There’s a big shock in this book early on and I highly suggest you get over it and keep reading. So that you can get to the next heart break in it. Trust the author to take you on a journey, because its totally worth it!
I loved how complicated this book was in some of the story threads. I was constantly on my toes having no idea what bad thing was going to happen next!
As always with this author I do love the way she writes, the dialogue flows very realistically which makes the story flow. Also she gives us the feel that the characters are telling a story about their past with occasional present tense interjections. Sorry character, I am missing the other POV in this one. We do only have 1 POV.
Remember to trust NO ONE in these books, you never know what’s going to happen next. This book is rife with twists and turns. Every time you think you know what’s happening, everything gets turned upside down.
“Now you know what’s it’s like to be a woman and wake up in a pool of your own blood.”
“When shall we three meet again in thunder, lightning, or in rain? When the hurly-burly’s done, When the battle’s lost and won.”
Add a little sprinkle of Demon for spice, a pinch of
werewolf for sweet, and a cup of human for that extra
salt to bring out all of the flavors. What do you get? A
huge world space with so much room for all kinds of
characters. This story has an adorable cinnamon roll
male lead and salty little ball of sunshine ☀️ for a female
lead.
Oh wow! If you haven’t read book 0, I definitely recommend that first. Book 0 let me get to know the characters and bond with them before all the drama starts. (Don’t worry there’s still drama in book 0 👍)
NOW ON TO BOOK 1!
This one immediately hit me in the chest and I felt completely betrayed. There’s a big shock in this book early on and I highly suggest you get over it and keep reading. So that you can get to the next heart break in it. Trust the author to take you on a journey, because its totally worth it!
I loved how complicated this book was in some of the story threads. I was constantly on my toes having no idea what bad thing was going to happen next!
As always with this author I do love the way she writes, the dialogue flows very realistically which makes the story flow. Also she gives us the feel that the characters are telling a story about their past with occasional present tense interjections. Sorry character, I am missing the other POV in this one. We do only have 1 POV.
Remember to trust NO ONE in these books, you never know what’s going to happen next. This book is rife with twists and turns. Every time you think you know what’s happening, everything gets turned upside down.
“Now you know what’s it’s like to be a woman and wake up in a pool of your own blood.”
“When shall we three meet again in thunder, lightning, or in rain? When the hurly-burly’s done, When the battle’s lost and won.”
November 3, 2021
Eluding Destiny is a great beginning to the series.
Eluding Destiny is a great beginning to the series. The flow of the writing and pace of the storyline is very well executed. The characters are easily relatable and multifaceted. Charlie Nottingham does a great job drawing you into the story from the beginning and keeping you engaged with the characters and the story.
There are a few editing errors that I noticed but nothing big enough to distract from the story. There is a lot of after-thoughts, where you can tell that the story is being told from a future perspective, things such as "looking back now I can...." it provides some foreshadowing that kept me intrigued about what is to come with the rest of the series.
I enjoy the characters, although I think that the main character Laila is a bit hard on herself in reflection. It kind of takes away from the feeling of the moment when it's kind of saying that in hindsight she realizes her reaction or feelings were too much in the same paragraph that is describing what she's feeling. I think it would be beneficial if the character's feeling and responses are allowed to happen without the reflection, although it does allude to the characters growth throughout the series and entices you to want to continue reading to see how that growth happens.
All in all, I very much enjoyed Eluding Destiny and am looking forward to the rest of the series.
Eluding Destiny is a great beginning to the series. The flow of the writing and pace of the storyline is very well executed. The characters are easily relatable and multifaceted. Charlie Nottingham does a great job drawing you into the story from the beginning and keeping you engaged with the characters and the story.
There are a few editing errors that I noticed but nothing big enough to distract from the story. There is a lot of after-thoughts, where you can tell that the story is being told from a future perspective, things such as "looking back now I can...." it provides some foreshadowing that kept me intrigued about what is to come with the rest of the series.
I enjoy the characters, although I think that the main character Laila is a bit hard on herself in reflection. It kind of takes away from the feeling of the moment when it's kind of saying that in hindsight she realizes her reaction or feelings were too much in the same paragraph that is describing what she's feeling. I think it would be beneficial if the character's feeling and responses are allowed to happen without the reflection, although it does allude to the characters growth throughout the series and entices you to want to continue reading to see how that growth happens.
All in all, I very much enjoyed Eluding Destiny and am looking forward to the rest of the series.
November 30, 2020
Couldn't finish
I just couldn't get into this. As the book started i felt like I was missing something, was this a sequel from another book? A spin off, it was confusing and a bit annoying when little tid bits of information are just dropped like breadcrumbs all over the place only to be sweeped before we get a closer look at what they are or mean in this story! the story is told by the H pov about what's going on, only it's the past, because we get small glimpses that this was how she was before.. This story is all over the place, it's bad combination of a story with no real structure, no real purpose, no real information! Just a mass of jumbled stuff all going on at once. Honestly I got about 50% and it was a nightmare, I have no idea about what some of these characters look like?, no idea how the supernatural world works here? What are these guardian's? How do they hide what they are from humans yet get caught on camera? None of this entire story makes a lick of sense what so ever. How is the H one of the most powerful brings yet all we get most of the book is her breakdowns? We know she has fire and some wind but we get nothing but her lighting cigarettes and weed with her tiny flame? Why are there no hybrids with other races? Honestly there was a lot of nonsense and I dnf
I just couldn't get into this. As the book started i felt like I was missing something, was this a sequel from another book? A spin off, it was confusing and a bit annoying when little tid bits of information are just dropped like breadcrumbs all over the place only to be sweeped before we get a closer look at what they are or mean in this story! the story is told by the H pov about what's going on, only it's the past, because we get small glimpses that this was how she was before.. This story is all over the place, it's bad combination of a story with no real structure, no real purpose, no real information! Just a mass of jumbled stuff all going on at once. Honestly I got about 50% and it was a nightmare, I have no idea about what some of these characters look like?, no idea how the supernatural world works here? What are these guardian's? How do they hide what they are from humans yet get caught on camera? None of this entire story makes a lick of sense what so ever. How is the H one of the most powerful brings yet all we get most of the book is her breakdowns? We know she has fire and some wind but we get nothing but her lighting cigarettes and weed with her tiny flame? Why are there no hybrids with other races? Honestly there was a lot of nonsense and I dnf
March 2, 2022
This was a good read, I'm rounding it up from 3.5-3.75 stars.
I love this authors' writing style, it's easy to digest, the characters are relatable and she has an uncanny ability to weave in difficult topics through character growth.
I also love that this series is told in the first person, but from now, as in she's retelling the story, so you get the thoughts of the now, with some sprinkles of the characters comments from the now.. it adds an element of mystery as it eludes to things to come.
I gave it slightly under 4 for me because I found it predictable, I figured out who the "bad guy" was really early on in the book. But I haven't decided whether she's made that intentional or not; there's a lot of nuisance Charlie adds to her writing.. so we'll see as I continue!
There is a pregnancy trope, which I knew just from looking at the covers, so far I like where I think it's going to go, even though I don't usually love this, so again we shall see!
All in all, I always find myself wondering what Laila and Jeremy will do next (having read both prequels already)
I love this authors' writing style, it's easy to digest, the characters are relatable and she has an uncanny ability to weave in difficult topics through character growth.
I also love that this series is told in the first person, but from now, as in she's retelling the story, so you get the thoughts of the now, with some sprinkles of the characters comments from the now.. it adds an element of mystery as it eludes to things to come.
I gave it slightly under 4 for me because I found it predictable, I figured out who the "bad guy" was really early on in the book. But I haven't decided whether she's made that intentional or not; there's a lot of nuisance Charlie adds to her writing.. so we'll see as I continue!
There is a pregnancy trope, which I knew just from looking at the covers, so far I like where I think it's going to go, even though I don't usually love this, so again we shall see!
All in all, I always find myself wondering what Laila and Jeremy will do next (having read both prequels already)
March 23, 2021
The only reason I gave this a four star rating was the foreshadowing and drugs. The foreshadowing did not add to the plot. As for smoking and drugs it was used, a lot. For people who are very impressionable it would lead them to think that despite the characters not being human, everyone uses as frequently as drinking water. (I honestly have a niece that if you tell her the grass is green and the next person in the room tells her it's purple, she believes the last thing she heard. So, this level of usage would not be a good example for her.) The characters were young adults trying to make sense of their life. A little hard to do with betrayals, murder and unknown powers. This may sound like the typical paranormal teen angst book but it's not. The author writes well and makes the characters real, you feel the emotions and begin to care about what happens with them. For a lot of books now you read and forget them, it's not that easy with these.
July 24, 2022
I KNEW it!!!!!!!
Very first, let me say that as a PA girl, I love that this takes place in PA!
Okay....once again trying not to give spoilers so if you haven't read the book before this, go read it before reading my review! This one contains kinda spoilers, but not really I guess...either way, you NEED to read Book 0 first!!!!
During the last book when they said Lai's mom wasn't really her mom and they went over her DNA test, I guessed who her bio-mom was. Neener-neener-neener! I was right! And theres even more about her family that was really shocking! Then there's all the things about Jeremy's family coming to light! What-in-the-world!!!!! Brody...DUDE!!! Smh that one was surprising! I feel like Hannah's role is going to develop even more in Book 2. And the new characters? They seem shady to me....at least their intentions do but we will see. I wonder how the trial's going to go.......
Very first, let me say that as a PA girl, I love that this takes place in PA!
Okay....once again trying not to give spoilers so if you haven't read the book before this, go read it before reading my review! This one contains kinda spoilers, but not really I guess...either way, you NEED to read Book 0 first!!!!
During the last book when they said Lai's mom wasn't really her mom and they went over her DNA test, I guessed who her bio-mom was. Neener-neener-neener! I was right! And theres even more about her family that was really shocking! Then there's all the things about Jeremy's family coming to light! What-in-the-world!!!!! Brody...DUDE!!! Smh that one was surprising! I feel like Hannah's role is going to develop even more in Book 2. And the new characters? They seem shady to me....at least their intentions do but we will see. I wonder how the trial's going to go.......
November 9, 2021
From Prequel to Epilogue
"Par Animarum" I've always wanted something old sounding to phrase true mates as and this is what this book has done. From beginning to end we meet our main characters and you fall for who they are. The realism and modern day story arch has this feel more believable than most fantasy romances. The plot twist at the end has you ready to jump right in and binge the next book. My only dislike is the massive time gap for the last two chapters. I'm hoping to see more details on that time frame in the next book. Otherwise this is a must read for light spicy lovers.
"Par Animarum" I've always wanted something old sounding to phrase true mates as and this is what this book has done. From beginning to end we meet our main characters and you fall for who they are. The realism and modern day story arch has this feel more believable than most fantasy romances. The plot twist at the end has you ready to jump right in and binge the next book. My only dislike is the massive time gap for the last two chapters. I'm hoping to see more details on that time frame in the next book. Otherwise this is a must read for light spicy lovers.
November 23, 2021
I didn't like this story as much as the first. I feel like there was a lot of drama in the book and maybe too much? Just felt like a lot was happening super fast. However, I do believe that was intentional and the author felt like it was necessary to the plot lines of the continuing series. I am hopeful that the books continue to improve. The book definitely has triggers again for drug and alcohol use as well as sexual assault.
The continuing drug use is definitely a negative for me, but that's a personal opinion. I also feel as if the characters are a little shallow and I wish they had more depth to them.
The continuing drug use is definitely a negative for me, but that's a personal opinion. I also feel as if the characters are a little shallow and I wish they had more depth to them.
November 26, 2021
I received this book free from the author in exchange for a review.
I give this book 3.5 ⭐
It took about 4 days to read from start to finish and I want to say I saw it coming from the beginning, but I really didn't. As it got closer I figured it out but the twist was quite surprising to me. I loved it! I still have so many questions about the plot line that I'm sure gets answered through the rest of the series. I cannot wait to read the rest of the books.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐SPOILER ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
For some people that don't like pregnancy in books, there is pregnancy at the end of this one, but it is I swear part of what is to come.
I give this book 3.5 ⭐
It took about 4 days to read from start to finish and I want to say I saw it coming from the beginning, but I really didn't. As it got closer I figured it out but the twist was quite surprising to me. I loved it! I still have so many questions about the plot line that I'm sure gets answered through the rest of the series. I cannot wait to read the rest of the books.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐SPOILER ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
For some people that don't like pregnancy in books, there is pregnancy at the end of this one, but it is I swear part of what is to come.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 31, 2021
3.5
Ugh I was really expecting more from this book. Everyone was incredibly whiny and almost no ones actions made much sense. I can’t get into details without spoilers. It’s weird that this book is the 1st book but had so very little romance which makes sense given the setup but the setup I didn’t like. I’m going to have to have a talk with Charlie because there is a lot of foreshadowing but this was kinda drawn out to only learn 1 clue to the puzzle. I don’t understand. I’m still interested in what comes next, but taking an entire book to process like 2 events is just to slow for my taste.
Ugh I was really expecting more from this book. Everyone was incredibly whiny and almost no ones actions made much sense. I can’t get into details without spoilers. It’s weird that this book is the 1st book but had so very little romance which makes sense given the setup but the setup I didn’t like. I’m going to have to have a talk with Charlie because there is a lot of foreshadowing but this was kinda drawn out to only learn 1 clue to the puzzle. I don’t understand. I’m still interested in what comes next, but taking an entire book to process like 2 events is just to slow for my taste.
September 13, 2022
Rollercoaster!
Oh man where do I start? First off, it seriously felt like the rollercoaster of life that some of us go through, just without the supernatural being involved. Even though as a reader's pov being thrown in the middle and having to be explained some of the past in a short summary, it felt a bit chaotic and a lot of information to grasp to catch up. The story itself was still pretty good. Not exactly mystery storytelling though, not as good as a kdrama, but well enough to keep you on your toes and wanting to know more. Regardless of how the story is told it was different from what I usually read and I liked the difference. Definitely worth the read!
Oh man where do I start? First off, it seriously felt like the rollercoaster of life that some of us go through, just without the supernatural being involved. Even though as a reader's pov being thrown in the middle and having to be explained some of the past in a short summary, it felt a bit chaotic and a lot of information to grasp to catch up. The story itself was still pretty good. Not exactly mystery storytelling though, not as good as a kdrama, but well enough to keep you on your toes and wanting to know more. Regardless of how the story is told it was different from what I usually read and I liked the difference. Definitely worth the read!
May 22, 2021
I finished this book in one day and it kept me gripped from start to finish. I've read a few books that have a similar storyline to Eluding Destiny but this is by far the best one out of all of them. The twists. I love Jeremy and Laila, their story is so sweet and gripping. The twists in this book make you feel as though you're there with the characters. I'm currently reading book 2 and I can't wait to read the rest of them. Charlie Nottingham is one of my new favourite authors and will definitely be reading more by her.
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