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Geneshifters #1
Blood of Beasts
Humanity has fallen, decimated by biological warfare. Survival is only afforded to the elite. Super soldiers were created to protect the vulnerable remains of the United States.
Titania has been in hiding since she escaped the program. For years, she has kept her origin secret, even from her best friend, James.
When she is forced to manifest her power, she and James must flee from her creator. As forces work to tear them apart, they must find a way to stay together and answer the question: Can you love someone who isn’t human anymore?
Titania has been in hiding since she escaped the program. For years, she has kept her origin secret, even from her best friend, James.
When she is forced to manifest her power, she and James must flee from her creator. As forces work to tear them apart, they must find a way to stay together and answer the question: Can you love someone who isn’t human anymore?
- GenresDystopiaYoung Adult
194 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 30, 2021
19 people are currently reading
150 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Lemke
5 books33 followersRebecca is a multi-genre, hybrid author. She writes Middle Grade, Teen, and Lower Young Adult stories that are free from cursing and adult content. She enjoys hand-knitting blankets, crocheting scrunchies, traveling, painting, music (anything Taylor’s version, of course), and enjoying her family.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
November 19, 2021
Medium pace
Dates read : november 9th 2021 to november 15th 2021
Rates : 4.6*
Plot : 4.5*
World building : 4.75*
Characters : 4.5*
Spice : 1* (some kissing scenes)
Themes : Dystopian, post chemical warfare, genetic transformations, friends to lover, found family
Review :
«He was a sea of darkness in a perfect storm»
Rebecca Lemke brings us a unique twist to some X-men story !!. With her geneshifters series, she debuted a unique story about a super human whose DNA was crossed with animals.
The story was really promising and I think she lived up to it. There was a great balance between world building and plot development. The storyline was well written but the plot felt a little slow and incomplete to me. Maybe, I'm just too curious but I would have wanted more about the whole genetic transformation thing. We just have a glimpse of it and I think it would have brought so much more to the story.
Rebecca Lemke was able to create a really great atmosphere around her dystopian USA. I was really able to feel the post chemical warfare ambiance and the descriptive scenes were really well written. Even though it is not an imaginative world, I was able to wander and submerge in the world of Titania and James.
My favorite character would be James. He is just perfect. He will do anything to save the one he loves, even though she had lied to him for 10 years. He accepts that Titania is different and that she has a troubled past. He lets her decide what she wants to tell him and will wait for her to be ready to tell the rest of it.
Through their journey, he will continue to show his love to Titania in so many cute ways. He will stroke her hair and sing her lullabies to bring her to sleep. He will use gloves to be able to touch her…
The cast of characters is diverses and they are all lovable and believable. I like that each of the character's personalities are reflected in the animal they are crossed with : The grumpy guy is a lizard or the little shy girl is a mouse.
I had a little trouble with Titania. I like the female character to be a little less passive and when they have more angst. She shows some fighting spirit toward the end and I would have wanted more of that.
I really like the fact that Rebecca Lemke brings the differences forward. I also like that she creates characters that welcome the differences instead of being afraid of it. Every character, in the story, had to face someone else that has some unique traits and no one was ever judged for them. On the contrary, it brought questions and understanding.
Dates read : november 9th 2021 to november 15th 2021
Rates : 4.6*
Plot : 4.5*
World building : 4.75*
Characters : 4.5*
Spice : 1* (some kissing scenes)
Themes : Dystopian, post chemical warfare, genetic transformations, friends to lover, found family
Review :
«He was a sea of darkness in a perfect storm»
Rebecca Lemke brings us a unique twist to some X-men story !!. With her geneshifters series, she debuted a unique story about a super human whose DNA was crossed with animals.
The story was really promising and I think she lived up to it. There was a great balance between world building and plot development. The storyline was well written but the plot felt a little slow and incomplete to me. Maybe, I'm just too curious but I would have wanted more about the whole genetic transformation thing. We just have a glimpse of it and I think it would have brought so much more to the story.
Rebecca Lemke was able to create a really great atmosphere around her dystopian USA. I was really able to feel the post chemical warfare ambiance and the descriptive scenes were really well written. Even though it is not an imaginative world, I was able to wander and submerge in the world of Titania and James.
My favorite character would be James. He is just perfect. He will do anything to save the one he loves, even though she had lied to him for 10 years. He accepts that Titania is different and that she has a troubled past. He lets her decide what she wants to tell him and will wait for her to be ready to tell the rest of it.
Through their journey, he will continue to show his love to Titania in so many cute ways. He will stroke her hair and sing her lullabies to bring her to sleep. He will use gloves to be able to touch her…
The cast of characters is diverses and they are all lovable and believable. I like that each of the character's personalities are reflected in the animal they are crossed with : The grumpy guy is a lizard or the little shy girl is a mouse.
I had a little trouble with Titania. I like the female character to be a little less passive and when they have more angst. She shows some fighting spirit toward the end and I would have wanted more of that.
I really like the fact that Rebecca Lemke brings the differences forward. I also like that she creates characters that welcome the differences instead of being afraid of it. Every character, in the story, had to face someone else that has some unique traits and no one was ever judged for them. On the contrary, it brought questions and understanding.
December 19, 2021
I don’t often go for the dystopian genre when it comes to YA, I’m much more apt to lean towards historical fiction or mystery. However, I had the pleasure of meeting Mrs. Lemke at an artisan market and much like any other book nerd my attention demanded I figured out what this story was about. I wasn’t disappointed in the plot at all, it felt fresh and unique. The earth has been torn apart via biological warfare and the population is much smaller than it once was. The government has decided to experiment on its people to create the perfect soldier by splicing their genes with animals. We’re not talking volunteers but people who were tortured and like anyone being tortured they wanted to escape. Thus, we come to our main character Titania. She has been hiding in plain sight at a compound since escaping the holding facility she was created at. James is her best friend and the boy who also happens to be in love with her. Inconvenient in the sense that he doesn’t know her entire back story. Violence occurs that forces Titania to reveal the truth and in turn she and James must create their own future while trying to outrun her past. Mrs. Lemke is clearly talented but still developing her writing style. I look forward to seeing how she grows as an author. Although the ending felt rushed and could have used another chapter or two to give it a better flow, I did enjoy it. Now the wait begins for book two.
November 1, 2021
With a series title like Geneshifters, it is pretty obvious that this story takes place in a radically altered world. Choices are few but big, like government compound or scattered wilderness. Questions are many, including what is happening to the lingering food supplies and will madmen be able to work unhindered and take control?
At least in one case, experimentation turned extreme, leaving Titania with a big secret that affects everything. But was that program sanctioned by the government? Was it shut down? Ten years later, is she finally safe?
This is a dystopian novel. No. She's not safe. Ha ha haaa!
Blood of Beasts follows two teens into the wilderness and unknown with more and more burning questions coming up. A madman is forcing people to change, but to what degree? How much can people really change? And what about friendship and love? How will Titania and James get through this? Especially together? And, though this first book doesn't get into it much, there are clearly haves and have-nots: who are these other people? What forces are at work?
This was an enjoyable read. I read it straight through, start to finish, in one glorious afternoon, and I look forward to the next book already. That's not to say there's a terrible cliffhanger. Thankfully the author was kind, giving a satisfying resting point. :)
At least in one case, experimentation turned extreme, leaving Titania with a big secret that affects everything. But was that program sanctioned by the government? Was it shut down? Ten years later, is she finally safe?
This is a dystopian novel. No. She's not safe. Ha ha haaa!
Blood of Beasts follows two teens into the wilderness and unknown with more and more burning questions coming up. A madman is forcing people to change, but to what degree? How much can people really change? And what about friendship and love? How will Titania and James get through this? Especially together? And, though this first book doesn't get into it much, there are clearly haves and have-nots: who are these other people? What forces are at work?
This was an enjoyable read. I read it straight through, start to finish, in one glorious afternoon, and I look forward to the next book already. That's not to say there's a terrible cliffhanger. Thankfully the author was kind, giving a satisfying resting point. :)
December 15, 2021
In a post-apocalyptic world, Titania and James escape into the woods after their compound and safe haven comes under attack. During their journey, Titania and James meet allies and discover disturbing details about how she became the monster she believes herself to be. The book ends in an explosive confrontation with the man responsible for it all.
Fast-paced and exciting! I devoured this book in a few hours and highly recommend it for those looking for an entertaining escape. Looking forward to book two.
Fast-paced and exciting! I devoured this book in a few hours and highly recommend it for those looking for an entertaining escape. Looking forward to book two.
November 5, 2021
This book, by an up and coming talent, is a dystopian YA with sooo many twists!
We are in a world where food is scarce, and where gene-editing is king. The characters are very richly drawn, and believable, as are their quests in this brave new world.
I absolutely recommend this!
We are in a world where food is scarce, and where gene-editing is king. The characters are very richly drawn, and believable, as are their quests in this brave new world.
I absolutely recommend this!
November 14, 2021
This book was a great start to what I can tell will be an amazing series! The action, the suspense, the emotional twists and turns, this is one book definitely recommended for anyone who loves ya SciFi dystopias.
March 16, 2025
I loved this YA novel from Rebecca Lemke!
I don't always go for YA, but when something reminds me of the types of books I'd pick back in school I have to take a chance!
The book is fast paced while still being detailed and leaves you with a cliff hanger you're begging to know about. Lucky for us, book 2 is already out and 3 will be out soon!
This is the perfect book for a quick read, palate cleanser, or simply to enjoy.
I think my 10 y/o will love it as well!
I don't always go for YA, but when something reminds me of the types of books I'd pick back in school I have to take a chance!
The book is fast paced while still being detailed and leaves you with a cliff hanger you're begging to know about. Lucky for us, book 2 is already out and 3 will be out soon!
This is the perfect book for a quick read, palate cleanser, or simply to enjoy.
I think my 10 y/o will love it as well!
July 21, 2022
It’s a real page-turner! Fast-paced, short chapters and character’s driven plot make this book hard to put down. I enjoyed all the twists, unpredictability and characters development. (James is such a hero!)
World building is very intriguing: full of dark places and struggles of humanity to survive. While the read is easy – with engaging narration – it deals with so many moral problems (beyond just genetic experiments!) Though set in a post apocalyptic environment, I found it very believable and easy to imagine. Author did a great job bringing it all to life.
Titania is a very interesting and well-developed character. Her true strength and goodness inside her, covered under her unusual abilities, makes her a very complex and likable part of the cast. James, as mentioned above, adds another layer of complexity to the plot. His readiness to sacrifice, his bravery as well as calm and adaptable nature are all good reasons to root for him. I loved how these two interacted with each other and how much they cared one for another.
I definitely recommend this book to Science fiction readers who enjoy genetic engineering topics mixed with a healthy dose of twists, friendship, and slow burn romance. I look forward to reading the next book in the series!
World building is very intriguing: full of dark places and struggles of humanity to survive. While the read is easy – with engaging narration – it deals with so many moral problems (beyond just genetic experiments!) Though set in a post apocalyptic environment, I found it very believable and easy to imagine. Author did a great job bringing it all to life.
Titania is a very interesting and well-developed character. Her true strength and goodness inside her, covered under her unusual abilities, makes her a very complex and likable part of the cast. James, as mentioned above, adds another layer of complexity to the plot. His readiness to sacrifice, his bravery as well as calm and adaptable nature are all good reasons to root for him. I loved how these two interacted with each other and how much they cared one for another.
I definitely recommend this book to Science fiction readers who enjoy genetic engineering topics mixed with a healthy dose of twists, friendship, and slow burn romance. I look forward to reading the next book in the series!
May 9, 2025
This young adult, science fiction, dystopian had me hooked from the beginning! The world building was strong and put me in the story. The action has me nervous and on the edge of my seat! I fell in love with the characters, and their resilience, and was invested in their backstories. There were heartbreaking moments that had me crying, and devasted. The ending was shocking, and I can't wait to continue with the next book!
Titania was just a child when an evil scientist started experimenting on her. When she was able to break free from Silen she took refuge at a compound for 10 years. She was able to hide her past, even from her best friend James. When riots start from outsiders, Titania transforms and forces her and James on the run. They try to seek help, and come face to face with someone like her. Their new friend, Luna, tries to help them. But what will they do when Silen tracks her, and takes James? With her transformations out of her control, how will she be able to help? Will Luna and her friends be willing to rescue James, and help them hide from the government?
Titania was just a child when an evil scientist started experimenting on her. When she was able to break free from Silen she took refuge at a compound for 10 years. She was able to hide her past, even from her best friend James. When riots start from outsiders, Titania transforms and forces her and James on the run. They try to seek help, and come face to face with someone like her. Their new friend, Luna, tries to help them. But what will they do when Silen tracks her, and takes James? With her transformations out of her control, how will she be able to help? Will Luna and her friends be willing to rescue James, and help them hide from the government?
January 28, 2025
This was such a fun read!! We have genetically modified shifters in a Dystopian world! I couldn't wait to find out what was going to happen next. There were even some things that I didn't see coming. The author did a great job at keeping the reader wanting more.
The only critique I have is that the characters were written in a way that they seemed a little younger than they were. They were high-school-aged and older for the most part but, their interactions and dialogue seemed to be more middle-grade. So, even though it is a YA book, it would be totally appropriate for middle grades as well.
All that being said, I appreciate the author not making the characters act older than they are like we see in a lot of YA fiction. Like over-sexualizing them and having them swear and such.
So if you like sci-fi/fantasy Dystopian read it! It really is a fun read!
The only critique I have is that the characters were written in a way that they seemed a little younger than they were. They were high-school-aged and older for the most part but, their interactions and dialogue seemed to be more middle-grade. So, even though it is a YA book, it would be totally appropriate for middle grades as well.
All that being said, I appreciate the author not making the characters act older than they are like we see in a lot of YA fiction. Like over-sexualizing them and having them swear and such.
So if you like sci-fi/fantasy Dystopian read it! It really is a fun read!
April 21, 2025
5 of 5 Stars
This is a truly unique and engaging story. The main character, Titania, lives in a dystopian version of the United States, surviving in secure camps designed to protect people from the contamination of the outside world. Despite being surrounded by others, she manages to keep a powerful secret—one that could endanger not only herself but also those she cares about.
When her secret is accidentally exposed, Titania is forced to flee with her best friend, James. From there, things get intense. As she struggles to understand and control her powers, she crosses paths with some fascinating and mysterious characters.
This book is a fantastic start to the Geneshifters series and a perfect read for young adults who love fast-paced dystopian adventures with a twist of the extraordinary.
This is a truly unique and engaging story. The main character, Titania, lives in a dystopian version of the United States, surviving in secure camps designed to protect people from the contamination of the outside world. Despite being surrounded by others, she manages to keep a powerful secret—one that could endanger not only herself but also those she cares about.
When her secret is accidentally exposed, Titania is forced to flee with her best friend, James. From there, things get intense. As she struggles to understand and control her powers, she crosses paths with some fascinating and mysterious characters.
This book is a fantastic start to the Geneshifters series and a perfect read for young adults who love fast-paced dystopian adventures with a twist of the extraordinary.
June 11, 2025
5 of 5 Stars
This is a truly unique and engaging story. The main character, Titania, lives in a dystopian version of the United States, surviving in secure camps designed to protect people from the contamination of the outside world. Despite being surrounded by others, she manages to keep a powerful secret—one that could endanger not only herself but also those she cares about.
When her secret is accidentally exposed, Titania is forced to flee with her best friend, James. From there, things get intense. As she struggles to understand and control her powers, she crosses paths with some fascinating and mysterious characters.
This book is a fantastic start to the Geneshifters series and a perfect read for young adults who love fast-paced dystopian adventures with a twist of the extraordinary.
This is a truly unique and engaging story. The main character, Titania, lives in a dystopian version of the United States, surviving in secure camps designed to protect people from the contamination of the outside world. Despite being surrounded by others, she manages to keep a powerful secret—one that could endanger not only herself but also those she cares about.
When her secret is accidentally exposed, Titania is forced to flee with her best friend, James. From there, things get intense. As she struggles to understand and control her powers, she crosses paths with some fascinating and mysterious characters.
This book is a fantastic start to the Geneshifters series and a perfect read for young adults who love fast-paced dystopian adventures with a twist of the extraordinary.
February 26, 2022
The ambiance of Lemke's world was really fun. The glowing plants, compounds, and leftover people fighting for scraps painted an immersive picture of a different US. The storyline was fun with plenty of twists and turns to keep me reading. My only critique would be to watch that the dialogue and actions fits the age of the character. Titania and James would occasionally say or do something that would throw me out of the story because it felt way off for their age. My favorite characters were Luna, as she seemed to stick to the brave friend she was, and the cat girl.
Overall, I would recommend this to a younger YA reader (12-16) looking for a fun blend of fantasy, scifi, and dystopian fiction. I will definitely be adding it to my classroom library and recommending it to students!
Overall, I would recommend this to a younger YA reader (12-16) looking for a fun blend of fantasy, scifi, and dystopian fiction. I will definitely be adding it to my classroom library and recommending it to students!
August 4, 2024
This is a fast, clean read perfect for young adults. The premise might not be entirely unique by now, but Rebecca still manages to spin something interesting from it — particularly Titania and [REDACTED]'s transformations. I also thought it was interesting to have chapters in Silen's POV; I just don't see it a lot in YA, as they're usually either first person with the main character, or, in the case of a romance, the pair of leads.
I love childhood friends to romance stories so this one was my cup of tea. Throw in found family and I couldn't put it down. Looking forward to the next installment!
I love childhood friends to romance stories so this one was my cup of tea. Throw in found family and I couldn't put it down. Looking forward to the next installment!
April 28, 2023
I picked this up because the cover and blurb called out to me. I was in the mood for a little dystopian and this one did not disappoint. While it took me a chapter or two to get into the story, once I was in, I was hooked and only had to put it down so that I could attempt some sleep, but the first thing I did in the morning was sink into it and devour the last few chapters. That ending! Oh it left me desperate for more, and I’m gonna be diving into book two ASAP! I adored the characters, the world building and all the twists and turns of the plot. Very much recommended!
November 9, 2024
An Intense Ride
This book has you running from page one and doesn’t stop! So intense! It’s like a blend of X-men and Sweet Tooth. I loved all the characters and how there were multiple points of view throughout the book. And can we talk about that bad guy?!? Seriously I may have to come back and write a longer review but I need to start book 2!
This book has you running from page one and doesn’t stop! So intense! It’s like a blend of X-men and Sweet Tooth. I loved all the characters and how there were multiple points of view throughout the book. And can we talk about that bad guy?!? Seriously I may have to come back and write a longer review but I need to start book 2!
March 23, 2025
Ok… this was a GREAT book! I listened to it while tasking on other things today. The author narrates the book and she’s very immersive! I really enjoyed the story and the characters!!!
Reminds me kind of if a CLEAN “Zodiac Academy” (only for the shifters aspect) and met “Uglies” and “Divergent”! It’s not a very long story but I enjoyed every minute of it.
Reminds me kind of if a CLEAN “Zodiac Academy” (only for the shifters aspect) and met “Uglies” and “Divergent”! It’s not a very long story but I enjoyed every minute of it.
November 28, 2021
Blood of Beasts is an action-filled page turner with well-drawn characters, a sweet friendship, a hint of love, and exciting science fiction elements. I couldn’t put this book down, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a clean, action-adventure science fiction YA novel.
March 20, 2025
Read it!
Absolutely loved it!
Theres so much so to but no words. My teenager and I read this together and it kept both of our attention!
Titania is the mfc
And James is the mmc
There journey is amazing!
I loved how detailed it was.
Definitely a recommend read!
Absolutely loved it!
Theres so much so to but no words. My teenager and I read this together and it kept both of our attention!
Titania is the mfc
And James is the mmc
There journey is amazing!
I loved how detailed it was.
Definitely a recommend read!
March 22, 2023
Very different story. Kept me intrigued to read it thru. Can't wait for book two. Go Rebecca!
May 17, 2025
Gave me the nostalgia of Maximum Ride and Animorphs, a fun page turner. :)
January 5, 2022
I just finished the Blood of Beasts book, and I love how determined and fierce the author made Titania. Even though she was in need of much...titan-doctor assistance, she still wanted to go out looking for James. If you haven’t read this book, put it on your to-read list NOW! It is the perfect combination of adventure, romance, and suspense. I love this book, and hope everyone else will too. AJ (Age 12)
January 19, 2025
I lOVED this book. I read it way too quickly. When I was finished I immediately asked my mom to buy the next book. Please keep writing these books Rebecca Lemke.
January 27, 2026
If you love YA books. You must read this. I thoroughly enjoyed the entire story. She ropes you in quick and you quickly fall in love with the characters. I can't wait to read more in this series.
May 21, 2025
Well that was awesome!!! Kept me on my toes. I constantly worried about them being discovered. Screw that one guy though! If you read it you will understand. I hate that guy! A great story overall! Definitely in love with the characters. The banter is hilarious between the main characters for sure! 5/5 rating. Being a Y/A dystopian is really cool. Love the whole shifter setting and how it is written!
December 28, 2023
While I don't particularly enjoy Dystopian novels, the twist to the genre in this story was interesting.
Genetic experiments bordering magic turn young, tortured prisoners into powerful shifters. Titania, in particular, feels like someone who came out of a myth. I'm eager to see where her story leads us.
Genetic experiments bordering magic turn young, tortured prisoners into powerful shifters. Titania, in particular, feels like someone who came out of a myth. I'm eager to see where her story leads us.
October 2, 2025
Okay, I actually LOVED this book. I don’t want to spoil too much but James and Titania are SO CUTE!!! I enjoyed the storyline and am about to start the second book. I can’t wait to see what happens next! 😁
March 26, 2025
This was a good book for the length that it was. The only qualm with it that I have is that it would be much better suited for a younger audience. Due to the length, a lot of detail felt lacking and the characters felt pretty one-dimensional. I'm not sure if it would be "allowed" to be considered suitable for middle school age children due to the whole experimentation part, but it seemed a lot like how I imagine "Animorphs" to be, so I'm sure it would fly.
Beyond that, it was a fairly good book. I think that as long as you go in with the notion that it is meant for children, it is a much better read. It was marketed as YA so I had very different expectations. That being said, The auther is super nice, and I would read it solely for this reason lol
Beyond that, it was a fairly good book. I think that as long as you go in with the notion that it is meant for children, it is a much better read. It was marketed as YA so I had very different expectations. That being said, The auther is super nice, and I would read it solely for this reason lol
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews