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Five Senses #1
Touch
An inexplicable condition. An excruciating reaction to human touch. No one she can trust.
When high schooler Cassie Merritt is found in a river with no memory, it's a miracle she survives. But there’s nothing miraculous about her scars or the burning agony she feels at the simplest touch. Her new guardian, who she lovingly calls Gram, can’t hug her. If she had any friends, they couldn’t get close, either.
Seeking medical attention could rip her away from Gram and the only life she can remember. Which leaves Cassie to turn to the one person whose touch doesn’t burn her: Gabriel Knight.
Gabriel believes her condition is tied to a missing locket, and more crucially, an ancient relic and the power she’s destined to wield. But it seems he and his odd family are keeping secrets from her… dark secrets that could prove more painful than touch itself.
In order to find the truth of her past and get a chance at love, Cassie must decide if she trusts Gabriel. But with an ancient war between this world and the next looming, she must decide soon… before evil ravages her small town in irrevocable ways.
Readers are addicted to TOUCH, the first book in the Five Senses series.
When high schooler Cassie Merritt is found in a river with no memory, it's a miracle she survives. But there’s nothing miraculous about her scars or the burning agony she feels at the simplest touch. Her new guardian, who she lovingly calls Gram, can’t hug her. If she had any friends, they couldn’t get close, either.
Seeking medical attention could rip her away from Gram and the only life she can remember. Which leaves Cassie to turn to the one person whose touch doesn’t burn her: Gabriel Knight.
Gabriel believes her condition is tied to a missing locket, and more crucially, an ancient relic and the power she’s destined to wield. But it seems he and his odd family are keeping secrets from her… dark secrets that could prove more painful than touch itself.
In order to find the truth of her past and get a chance at love, Cassie must decide if she trusts Gabriel. But with an ancient war between this world and the next looming, she must decide soon… before evil ravages her small town in irrevocable ways.
Readers are addicted to TOUCH, the first book in the Five Senses series.
521 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 5, 2022
43 people are currently reading
308 people want to read
About the author
Cheryl Kahn
4 books47 followersCheryl once worked as a corporate attorney and yoga instructor, but when the pandemic scaled back her yoga teaching, she reassessed her passions. Following a dream that began in 6th grade when she and her best friend penned a story in a spiral notebook during recess, Cheryl now spends her days crafting stories with care and a lot of heart. When not at the computer, she can be found sweating at the gym with friends, walking her rescue pup, and glued to her Kindle. She lives in California with her college sweetheart, now husband.
Connect with Cheryl and receive exclusive Five Senses Series material by signing up for her newsletter at www.cherylkahn.com.
Connect with Cheryl and receive exclusive Five Senses Series material by signing up for her newsletter at www.cherylkahn.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
May 18, 2022
Thank you so much Cheryl for sending me an ARC of your book!
You're going to be the death of me.
Cassandra arrived in Meeker about two years ago and doesn't remember anything about her past. All she knows is that she can't touch anyone without her skin literally burning. Over the years, she has been bullied for being different but finally, everything is going to change.
During a summer job, she meets Gabriel who seems nice regardless what the town tells him about Cassie and actually seems to care about her. And when school starts, there is this new guy, Vin, full of mystery to whom she seems strangely attracted. But they both hide things.
She is embarked in new adventures she never could have imagined. The world is not as it seems. And revelations will changer her whole life.
Don't be afraid to feel deeply. Don't be afraid to be yourself. Don't deny who you are.
Was this good? Haha! Yes it wassssssss! Did I cry? I sure did!
This book has great characters (even though the second-hand embarrassment is sometimes present with Cassandra lmao), the plot is incredible and there it's generally amazing! I cried, I smiled, I felt butterflies in my stomach, and even better, I was able to create so many hypothesises because everything seemed so linked together! And that's one of the things I love most about a book: making me think and not just being a passive spectator to the story.
Also did you see the quotes XD
...I've already chosen. You.
Are there any tropes? Or amazing elements? Oh yes!
We've got:
- shapeshifters
- chosen one trope
- mystery past
- good vs evil theme
- finding the right one for you
- damsel in distress moment
- heart wrenching betrayal
- love triangle (but a well done one, don't worry!!)
- and so many more I just can't think of right now lmao :)
(and heart breaking deaths :_)
It was nice, at long last, to not be alone.
To sum up, this book is incredible, you should go and get it: it's a great story and you'll be supporting a debut author! Oh and this is just the first book of a series of five, so there's more to come ;)
Thanks again for the ARC, I loved it!
You're going to be the death of me.
Cassandra arrived in Meeker about two years ago and doesn't remember anything about her past. All she knows is that she can't touch anyone without her skin literally burning. Over the years, she has been bullied for being different but finally, everything is going to change.
During a summer job, she meets Gabriel who seems nice regardless what the town tells him about Cassie and actually seems to care about her. And when school starts, there is this new guy, Vin, full of mystery to whom she seems strangely attracted. But they both hide things.
She is embarked in new adventures she never could have imagined. The world is not as it seems. And revelations will changer her whole life.
Don't be afraid to feel deeply. Don't be afraid to be yourself. Don't deny who you are.
Was this good? Haha! Yes it wassssssss! Did I cry? I sure did!
This book has great characters (even though the second-hand embarrassment is sometimes present with Cassandra lmao), the plot is incredible and there it's generally amazing! I cried, I smiled, I felt butterflies in my stomach, and even better, I was able to create so many hypothesises because everything seemed so linked together! And that's one of the things I love most about a book: making me think and not just being a passive spectator to the story.
Also did you see the quotes XD
...I've already chosen. You.
Are there any tropes? Or amazing elements? Oh yes!
We've got:
- shapeshifters
- chosen one trope
- mystery past
- good vs evil theme
- finding the right one for you
- damsel in distress moment
- heart wrenching betrayal
- love triangle (but a well done one, don't worry!!)
- and so many more I just can't think of right now lmao :)
(and heart breaking deaths :_)
It was nice, at long last, to not be alone.
To sum up, this book is incredible, you should go and get it: it's a great story and you'll be supporting a debut author! Oh and this is just the first book of a series of five, so there's more to come ;)
Thanks again for the ARC, I loved it!
May 13, 2022
I was fortunate enough to be on Cheryl's cover reveal and ARC team. I was gifted a book from the author in exchange for a honest review.
I finished this book in 4 days. Which for me and a book this length is very fast. I enjoyed Touch so much! There is mystery, romance, deception, lots of action, and fantastical elements. What more could I ask for in a book?
I can't pick a favorite character because I loved Gabriel, Vin, Gram, Cassie, and Cole (even though he is a bit gullible). I can not wait read the next book the series.
Read this if you like:
+ YA Fantasy
+ Angsty romance with a bit of a love triangle
+ Loyal and lovable furry creatures
+ Girl has to figure out why here memories are gone
+ Fast paced stories with lots of action
TW (possible spoilers): Bullying, Death of a loved one, House fire
I finished this book in 4 days. Which for me and a book this length is very fast. I enjoyed Touch so much! There is mystery, romance, deception, lots of action, and fantastical elements. What more could I ask for in a book?
I can't pick a favorite character because I loved Gabriel, Vin, Gram, Cassie, and Cole (even though he is a bit gullible). I can not wait read the next book the series.
Read this if you like:
+ YA Fantasy
+ Angsty romance with a bit of a love triangle
+ Loyal and lovable furry creatures
+ Girl has to figure out why here memories are gone
+ Fast paced stories with lots of action
TW (possible spoilers): Bullying, Death of a loved one, House fire
May 2, 2022
Firstly I'd like to thank the author for providing me this arc❣
Secondly, let's review🥰.
From the first page the book drew me in. First thing I noticed was the writing style. It was well rounded, not to simple nor to complicated (which can happen when it comes to new fantasy books) and for me personally it had a lirical/poetical note to it which I love. I would never have guessed by picking it up that it's a debute with how well it was written. Second thing I noticed was how good our MC Cassandra was written. First few chapters and we are already deep inside her mind, understanding her struggles, fears and misbelieves. We do not know her whole story but we do know enough so that we crave to know more. We also, really quickly, meet Gabriel "the one who can touch her" and at first I was scared that the book would hop onto the "insta love" train but it did not!! There was attraction and feelings from the start but it all worked well with the plot and our MC who craves closeness and emotional connection. So if there comes a guy who is kind hearted, wants to meet you and can touch you, be close to you after you could not be like that with anyone? Ofcourse you'd explore the relationship. So, I would not say it was insta-love (which I personally do not prefer), I would say it was instant bond that grew. The world building was at the right pace where we got bits and bits of info along the way and it wasn't all just dumped into our faces. I absolutely loved Vin and did not expect the end to go the way it did, but honestly loved how it ended and I think it was the right direction to take. Also Cassandra's past had me gripping my seat and I can't wait if she'll get the reunion she deserves ( those who read it know what I mean 😌). The book is a longer one (500 pages) so for a big book addict like me was perfection. It is slower plot-wise, which again I love ( but also understand that some people love a fast paced plot) and I think that the book itself was an amazing set up for the rest of this series. I feel like there is a lot to uncover and I better buckle my seat for the ride.
Secondly, let's review🥰.
From the first page the book drew me in. First thing I noticed was the writing style. It was well rounded, not to simple nor to complicated (which can happen when it comes to new fantasy books) and for me personally it had a lirical/poetical note to it which I love. I would never have guessed by picking it up that it's a debute with how well it was written. Second thing I noticed was how good our MC Cassandra was written. First few chapters and we are already deep inside her mind, understanding her struggles, fears and misbelieves. We do not know her whole story but we do know enough so that we crave to know more. We also, really quickly, meet Gabriel "the one who can touch her" and at first I was scared that the book would hop onto the "insta love" train but it did not!! There was attraction and feelings from the start but it all worked well with the plot and our MC who craves closeness and emotional connection. So if there comes a guy who is kind hearted, wants to meet you and can touch you, be close to you after you could not be like that with anyone? Ofcourse you'd explore the relationship. So, I would not say it was insta-love (which I personally do not prefer), I would say it was instant bond that grew. The world building was at the right pace where we got bits and bits of info along the way and it wasn't all just dumped into our faces. I absolutely loved Vin and did not expect the end to go the way it did, but honestly loved how it ended and I think it was the right direction to take. Also Cassandra's past had me gripping my seat and I can't wait if she'll get the reunion she deserves ( those who read it know what I mean 😌). The book is a longer one (500 pages) so for a big book addict like me was perfection. It is slower plot-wise, which again I love ( but also understand that some people love a fast paced plot) and I think that the book itself was an amazing set up for the rest of this series. I feel like there is a lot to uncover and I better buckle my seat for the ride.
March 29, 2022
THE WISHING SHELF BOOK AWARDS
14th March 2022
TITLE: Touch
AUTHOR: Cheryl Kahn
Star Rating: 5
REVIEW
Teenagers who are looking for a good book to enjoy often decide if they want to try a story by just glancing at the cover and blurb. They can be difficult that way – in many ways! So, if an author/publisher wants a young adult fantasy novel to be read, it’s going to need a good hook to pull the reader in. Well, I must say, Touch by Cheryl Kahn has a killer of a hook: the hero of the story can't be touched, and, if she is, she suffers burning agony and she sees the other person’s darkest secrets. I love that! It pulls you in. It yells ‘READ ME!’ That hook, along with the impactful cover, suggest to me teenagers will be very keen to have a go at this.
Now to the plot. Written in the first person, this is a cleverly crafted story with a strong element of fantasy and romance. The author’s a strong writer who knows how to keep things moving, offering the reader plenty of twists and turns - and the possibility of young love! In many ways, this book will appeal to fans of Twilight – although, in fact, Touch has better pacing than Meyer’s vampire saga.
I’m very happy to recommend this book to 12 – 16 year olds who enjoy fantasy novels populated with strong characters. In fact, this novel is worth reading just to get to know the protagonist. Her journey of self-discovery; of trying to understand who and what she is, is enthralling, getting under the skin and making the reader want to turn the page. And, as the book ends with ‘END OF BOOK ONE’ I suspect – and hope - we’ll be seeing more of this complex girl in the future.
A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk
14th March 2022
TITLE: Touch
AUTHOR: Cheryl Kahn
Star Rating: 5
REVIEW
Teenagers who are looking for a good book to enjoy often decide if they want to try a story by just glancing at the cover and blurb. They can be difficult that way – in many ways! So, if an author/publisher wants a young adult fantasy novel to be read, it’s going to need a good hook to pull the reader in. Well, I must say, Touch by Cheryl Kahn has a killer of a hook: the hero of the story can't be touched, and, if she is, she suffers burning agony and she sees the other person’s darkest secrets. I love that! It pulls you in. It yells ‘READ ME!’ That hook, along with the impactful cover, suggest to me teenagers will be very keen to have a go at this.
Now to the plot. Written in the first person, this is a cleverly crafted story with a strong element of fantasy and romance. The author’s a strong writer who knows how to keep things moving, offering the reader plenty of twists and turns - and the possibility of young love! In many ways, this book will appeal to fans of Twilight – although, in fact, Touch has better pacing than Meyer’s vampire saga.
I’m very happy to recommend this book to 12 – 16 year olds who enjoy fantasy novels populated with strong characters. In fact, this novel is worth reading just to get to know the protagonist. Her journey of self-discovery; of trying to understand who and what she is, is enthralling, getting under the skin and making the reader want to turn the page. And, as the book ends with ‘END OF BOOK ONE’ I suspect – and hope - we’ll be seeing more of this complex girl in the future.
A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk
October 14, 2022
First, I want to thank Cheryl Kahn for providing me with a copy of Touch in exchange for an honest review.
Overall I really enjoyed this one. It brought me back to the peak of my teen years when I was eating up the Twilight series, and I absolutely love that at first pass reading it, it felt like a nostalgic read – a warm fuzzy blanket of comfort in the best way.
Some plot and character spoilers coming…
I thought Khan did a fantastic job with the storytelling here, particularly the fantasy/magic components as it relates to the bears and relic. Throughout the story I was confident I had the bad guy pegged and I was totally wrong. Should I have seen it coming? Yes. Am I glad I didn’t? Absolutely! It made that moment of reveal all the more fun.
Generally I didn’t really vibe with Cassie’s character. For most of the book she annoyed me to high hell. I’m all for a character being headstrong, but there were moments when she was just too unbelievably stubborn. She would be going back-and-forth with Vin for pages and that pulled me out of the story and made me want to put the book down for a bit to take a breather – I think there were moments where the point was well made that she was digging her heels in, and the dialogue would keep going and I didn’t really care for it.
That said, I did love Cassie’s dynamic with Cole. Their relationship was just so sweet in the end. I enjoyed her character most when she was interacting with him. And, I’m happy she ended up with Gabriel because she chose to, not because he was the one left standing.
Kahn provided the perfect amount of breadcrumbs leading to Cassie’s backstory. I found myself a little disappointed in the end that we didn’t learn more about her sisters. Not because I felt it was vital to the story, but because I’m excited and impatient – and of course that’s the point, right? Hook us and leave us wanting more. I had such a great time with this read.
Touch was a fantastic start to this series and I’m very excited for her next installment, Taste.
Overall I really enjoyed this one. It brought me back to the peak of my teen years when I was eating up the Twilight series, and I absolutely love that at first pass reading it, it felt like a nostalgic read – a warm fuzzy blanket of comfort in the best way.
Some plot and character spoilers coming…
I thought Khan did a fantastic job with the storytelling here, particularly the fantasy/magic components as it relates to the bears and relic. Throughout the story I was confident I had the bad guy pegged and I was totally wrong. Should I have seen it coming? Yes. Am I glad I didn’t? Absolutely! It made that moment of reveal all the more fun.
Generally I didn’t really vibe with Cassie’s character. For most of the book she annoyed me to high hell. I’m all for a character being headstrong, but there were moments when she was just too unbelievably stubborn. She would be going back-and-forth with Vin for pages and that pulled me out of the story and made me want to put the book down for a bit to take a breather – I think there were moments where the point was well made that she was digging her heels in, and the dialogue would keep going and I didn’t really care for it.
That said, I did love Cassie’s dynamic with Cole. Their relationship was just so sweet in the end. I enjoyed her character most when she was interacting with him. And, I’m happy she ended up with Gabriel because she chose to, not because he was the one left standing.
Kahn provided the perfect amount of breadcrumbs leading to Cassie’s backstory. I found myself a little disappointed in the end that we didn’t learn more about her sisters. Not because I felt it was vital to the story, but because I’m excited and impatient – and of course that’s the point, right? Hook us and leave us wanting more. I had such a great time with this read.
Touch was a fantastic start to this series and I’m very excited for her next installment, Taste.
April 21, 2022
This is the first book in the Five Senses series and the first book I’ve read by this author. Character development and world building was amazing and drew me in so fast flipping the pages to find out what’s going to happen next. If you’re hesitating to read this book, don’t, you’ll love it.
Cassie is literally on fire, burning those who touch her skin to skin and revealing their darkest secrets. Except for Gabriel, who isn’t affected by her gift. But when her locket goes missing, which holds the last piece of her past, Cassie will have to choose her past or her destiny as her future.
So intriguing and twists throughout this book. Filled with action, secrets, danger, romance, suspense, mystery, friendship, fantasy and so much more. And I can say I loved Zoe! Can’t wait for the next book in this series.
I received this arc and am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion.
Cassie is literally on fire, burning those who touch her skin to skin and revealing their darkest secrets. Except for Gabriel, who isn’t affected by her gift. But when her locket goes missing, which holds the last piece of her past, Cassie will have to choose her past or her destiny as her future.
So intriguing and twists throughout this book. Filled with action, secrets, danger, romance, suspense, mystery, friendship, fantasy and so much more. And I can say I loved Zoe! Can’t wait for the next book in this series.
I received this arc and am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion.
April 4, 2022
A must read!!! You won't put it down! I know I couldn't! I was picking up my kindle every chance I got to dive back into this action packed, thrilling, romantic, YA fantasy.
Cassie is such a strong character! The author really pulls you into Cassie's world and you can feel all her emotions and the trauma she is experiencing. Impressive imagination on a different look at shapeshifters and elemental control. Grab the tissues at the end. They will be needed. I'm so on edge and will try to be patient for the next book.
I received this as an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Cassie is such a strong character! The author really pulls you into Cassie's world and you can feel all her emotions and the trauma she is experiencing. Impressive imagination on a different look at shapeshifters and elemental control. Grab the tissues at the end. They will be needed. I'm so on edge and will try to be patient for the next book.
I received this as an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 26, 2022
I have received an ARC copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved this book and couldn't put it down! I am a huge reader of fantasy fiction. I've read the mortal instruments, twilight series, Percy Jackson series, etc and Cheryl Kahn is right up there with them. if you love the books I mentioned, you will LOVE Touch by Cheryl Kahn! Highly recommend!
I loved this book and couldn't put it down! I am a huge reader of fantasy fiction. I've read the mortal instruments, twilight series, Percy Jackson series, etc and Cheryl Kahn is right up there with them. if you love the books I mentioned, you will LOVE Touch by Cheryl Kahn! Highly recommend!
May 1, 2022
Everyone had secrets. Everyone had sins. Failures buried deep within. - Touch by Cheryl Kahn
What do you think about the first few lines of a book? I love being pulled in right into the story. That's exactly what happened here. I immediately related to Cassie, the main character. Not in the way she feels like she is on fire when someone touches her, but for her quirky love of reading and how she feels the most at home with animals.
Touch will take you into an original fantasy world with charismatic friends or foes, shapeshifters and shadows all in a gorgeous Colorado mountain setting that will keep you turning the pages.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a new YA Fantasy series. This is book one of 5 and sets the scene for an incredible journey.
Thank you to @cherylkahnauthor for the advanced reading copy in exchange for my honest review.
What do you think about the first few lines of a book? I love being pulled in right into the story. That's exactly what happened here. I immediately related to Cassie, the main character. Not in the way she feels like she is on fire when someone touches her, but for her quirky love of reading and how she feels the most at home with animals.
Touch will take you into an original fantasy world with charismatic friends or foes, shapeshifters and shadows all in a gorgeous Colorado mountain setting that will keep you turning the pages.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a new YA Fantasy series. This is book one of 5 and sets the scene for an incredible journey.
Thank you to @cherylkahnauthor for the advanced reading copy in exchange for my honest review.
March 26, 2022
What a great novel! Even as an adult reader (marketed to Young Adult), I got swept away in the mystery, adventure, and romance in this book. First, you meet Cassie, who has lost her memory and has a strange aversion to anyone else’s touch. You really connect with this character as she begins to build relationships with others, working through her memory loss and distrust of others. I absolutely loved the fantasy part that reminded me of Twilight but with a different twist. This is a book you definitely can’t put down! I highly recommend you check out “Touch”!
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving this review.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving this review.
April 10, 2022
What a great start for a YA fantasy series. I really enjoyed it !
Cassie was discovered in a river without any memories but each time someone touch her she is in a deep pain from burns...some don't believe, some use that to hurt her....she is an outcast except for Rose who stepped up to take care of her and sees her as her granddaughter.
Afraid to trust anyone, cassie is still a very good soul trying to help when she can and that shows when she is working at the shelter with the dog and especially Zoe.
I loved how she was so determined to help.
Then she meets Gabriel and all change suddenly she can touch someone without pain, and she is trust in a world where people shifts, monsters exist and she could be a special one they waited centuries for...hard to believe but danger is there and she is not safe anymore....but who to trust
Gabriel is kind, loyal and protective , i also loved cole so young and so trusting, Rose was great, and the pets Zoe and the puppies i simply could not resist. Yes i guessed part of the story a big too quickly but it was wonderfully written so i could not stop reading until the end.
It's a full mix of emotions: romance, angst, fear, sadness,love, hope ...really it never stop shaking you and you will definitively want to read the next one.
Cassie was discovered in a river without any memories but each time someone touch her she is in a deep pain from burns...some don't believe, some use that to hurt her....she is an outcast except for Rose who stepped up to take care of her and sees her as her granddaughter.
Afraid to trust anyone, cassie is still a very good soul trying to help when she can and that shows when she is working at the shelter with the dog and especially Zoe.
I loved how she was so determined to help.
Then she meets Gabriel and all change suddenly she can touch someone without pain, and she is trust in a world where people shifts, monsters exist and she could be a special one they waited centuries for...hard to believe but danger is there and she is not safe anymore....but who to trust
Gabriel is kind, loyal and protective , i also loved cole so young and so trusting, Rose was great, and the pets Zoe and the puppies i simply could not resist. Yes i guessed part of the story a big too quickly but it was wonderfully written so i could not stop reading until the end.
It's a full mix of emotions: romance, angst, fear, sadness,love, hope ...really it never stop shaking you and you will definitively want to read the next one.
June 15, 2023
A scintillating fantasy with mystery and romance
This thrilling story has left me intrigued for more. Cheryl Kahn has built an epic world in the Five Senses series. Touch is the first in this installment. I was turning the pages frantically to know what will happen next. That says a lot right there!
Characters were developed carefully and had equal participation in the thrilling plotline. Cassie and Gram's relationship was so heartwarming. I immediately became team Vin but his fate left me sobbing. Gabriel and Cassie had an amazing chemistry, though. I was so happy when Cassie finally came to realize who she belonged to. I suppose I got too invested in her as she had a difficult past and equally challenging present.
This book has shape shifters, creature features, magic, and supernatural elements. My only complaint, it ended too soon. I am now guess working on next adventure Cassie will dive into. Oh wait, the next book is already on my TBR. Yay!
A definite read for Young Adult Fantasy lovers.
This thrilling story has left me intrigued for more. Cheryl Kahn has built an epic world in the Five Senses series. Touch is the first in this installment. I was turning the pages frantically to know what will happen next. That says a lot right there!
Characters were developed carefully and had equal participation in the thrilling plotline. Cassie and Gram's relationship was so heartwarming. I immediately became team Vin but his fate left me sobbing. Gabriel and Cassie had an amazing chemistry, though. I was so happy when Cassie finally came to realize who she belonged to. I suppose I got too invested in her as she had a difficult past and equally challenging present.
This book has shape shifters, creature features, magic, and supernatural elements. My only complaint, it ended too soon. I am now guess working on next adventure Cassie will dive into. Oh wait, the next book is already on my TBR. Yay!
A definite read for Young Adult Fantasy lovers.
April 22, 2022
I keep getting asked, "What's the last book that made you cry?" My answer has been, "I don't remember." Well, now I do. Touch by Cheryl Kahn is the last book that made me cry.
Kahn has a fantastic ability to weave words together in a way that grabs hold of you and draws you in.
The characters in this book feel all their emotions so deeply. Gram and Gabriel were by far my favorite. Their overwhelming goodness is what this world needs more of. Other characters made me glad that my kids are no longer in high school. The bullying and egos, the cockiness and cruelty were incredibly realistic.
I love reading books with mountain settings. The descriptions whisk me away and make me long to be there in real life.
The plot was well thought out and different from anything I've read before. I'm looking forward to seeing what comes next.
Kahn has a fantastic ability to weave words together in a way that grabs hold of you and draws you in.
The characters in this book feel all their emotions so deeply. Gram and Gabriel were by far my favorite. Their overwhelming goodness is what this world needs more of. Other characters made me glad that my kids are no longer in high school. The bullying and egos, the cockiness and cruelty were incredibly realistic.
I love reading books with mountain settings. The descriptions whisk me away and make me long to be there in real life.
The plot was well thought out and different from anything I've read before. I'm looking forward to seeing what comes next.
August 12, 2022
I came across this wonderful author, Cheryl Kahn because of a mention by @acourtofspinesandpages and I just had to look at her IG account and look at what books she had published so far, lucky for me she had recently published her first book TOUCHED. This book was so well written and had such a great storyline that it often felt like I wasn't simply reading the book, I was experiencing the story as if I had become one of her characters. I was obsessed with this book because it didn't feel like a story that's been told multiple times over with the same storyline & plot as some fantasy books tend to have. As I was reading the story which is mainly about the FMC Cassandra (cassie), her past, and her abilities, I couldn't help but be in awe of her, wondering how she was able to handle her pain and not give up. As other characters are introduced throughout the book you really get a wide variety of strong personalities yet not so strong that it took away from Cassandra's story.
Once I reached the very end of this book, I was heartbroken because not only is the second book not going to be finished for a few more months but because of all Cassie endured as well as lost along her journey. I couldn't stop myself from getting attached to her and feeling as if I was experiencing her trauma as my own. I think my favorite part of this book is that Cassie didn't quit!!
Once I reached the very end of this book, I was heartbroken because not only is the second book not going to be finished for a few more months but because of all Cassie endured as well as lost along her journey. I couldn't stop myself from getting attached to her and feeling as if I was experiencing her trauma as my own. I think my favorite part of this book is that Cassie didn't quit!!
October 24, 2022
Author Cheryl Khan did a fantastic job with the storytelling in Touch, particularly the magical elements as they relate to the good vs evil trope, shapeshifters, love triangle, and heart-wrenching betrayal.
This is the first book in the Five Senses series and the first book I’ve read by this author. Character development and world-building were amazing and drew me quickly. The strong female protagonist, Cassie is physically on fire, burned by those who touch her skin while revealing their darkest secrets.
Cassie’s locket connects her to an ancient relic that Gabe's family, a person she trusts, guards against the Malum. This evil shadowy entity wants to destroy their world and continue an ancient war between other worlds. I was drawn in by the story and the characters, and I felt great empathy for Cassie.
Touch is incredibly intriguing, with plot twists throughout. If you’re looking for a fast-paced book with secrets, danger, romance, mystery, friendship, and imagination, then this book is for you! I'm looking forward to the next book in this series.
This is the first book in the Five Senses series and the first book I’ve read by this author. Character development and world-building were amazing and drew me quickly. The strong female protagonist, Cassie is physically on fire, burned by those who touch her skin while revealing their darkest secrets.
Cassie’s locket connects her to an ancient relic that Gabe's family, a person she trusts, guards against the Malum. This evil shadowy entity wants to destroy their world and continue an ancient war between other worlds. I was drawn in by the story and the characters, and I felt great empathy for Cassie.
Touch is incredibly intriguing, with plot twists throughout. If you’re looking for a fast-paced book with secrets, danger, romance, mystery, friendship, and imagination, then this book is for you! I'm looking forward to the next book in this series.
October 10, 2022
Touch Me Not
"Sleeping Beauty could dream for both of us.
She was the one who would never burn.
The only one who’d ever touch someone.
The one getting a fairytale ending." - Cassandra
Evil has many forms, many faces; often it disguises itself as something or someone innocent. Cassandra doesn't remember her life before... All is in darkness, her memory lost. But what was lost can sometimes be found, again...
" I had too much darkness in my life to count on forever and fairytale endings." - Cassandra
I didn't know what to expect when I picked up this book; perhaps another urban fantasy where girl meets boy and saves the world. *Yawn* Oh no... This book is so much more. Dark, definitely, but the light of love and truth is a beacon throughout. The heroine finds herself in dire straits, and only the truth shall set her free from the shackles of forgetfulness and self doubt.
"Don’t be afraid to feel deeply. Don’t be afraid to be yourself. Don’t deny who you are." - Grams
"Sleeping Beauty could dream for both of us.
She was the one who would never burn.
The only one who’d ever touch someone.
The one getting a fairytale ending." - Cassandra
Evil has many forms, many faces; often it disguises itself as something or someone innocent. Cassandra doesn't remember her life before... All is in darkness, her memory lost. But what was lost can sometimes be found, again...
" I had too much darkness in my life to count on forever and fairytale endings." - Cassandra
I didn't know what to expect when I picked up this book; perhaps another urban fantasy where girl meets boy and saves the world. *Yawn* Oh no... This book is so much more. Dark, definitely, but the light of love and truth is a beacon throughout. The heroine finds herself in dire straits, and only the truth shall set her free from the shackles of forgetfulness and self doubt.
"Don’t be afraid to feel deeply. Don’t be afraid to be yourself. Don’t deny who you are." - Grams
September 23, 2022
Synopsis: Cassie is cursed. A simple touch from another person causes excruciating pain and terrible visions. She’s been this way ever since she can remember, which isn’t that long because her memory starts only two years ago when she was pulled from White River, covered in burns. She is an outcast, shunned by everyone in town until one day Gabriel shows up. But Cassie is determined not to let her guard down, and when he and his family start talking about ancient wars, and relics, she is set on distancing herself from him… Even if he is the only one she can safety touch.
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I love it, I love it, I love it!
Review: it took me a little while to really get pulled into this story but then, my goodness! Cassie is a skeptic at heart, and she has been through so much, it makes sense. There is a lot of mystery and secrecy in the beginnings of this book, that I think was used so well. You could feel Cassie’s frustration with all the cryptic behavior of those around her.
Gabriel is such a sweet character, and I really like his whole development. I also really like the love triangle that develops and the story has a stunning apex!
This is the first of a 5 book series, and I think it’s sets up a series really well. I’m so excited for the next book and the rest of the series.
This is great for anyone who loves their book tropes, it’s got a lot of the greats!
Im also a huge fan of the well researched and well written injuries and medical conditions! 🩺⚕️🥼👩⚕️
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I love it, I love it, I love it!
Review: it took me a little while to really get pulled into this story but then, my goodness! Cassie is a skeptic at heart, and she has been through so much, it makes sense. There is a lot of mystery and secrecy in the beginnings of this book, that I think was used so well. You could feel Cassie’s frustration with all the cryptic behavior of those around her.
Gabriel is such a sweet character, and I really like his whole development. I also really like the love triangle that develops and the story has a stunning apex!
This is the first of a 5 book series, and I think it’s sets up a series really well. I’m so excited for the next book and the rest of the series.
This is great for anyone who loves their book tropes, it’s got a lot of the greats!
Im also a huge fan of the well researched and well written injuries and medical conditions! 🩺⚕️🥼👩⚕️
April 22, 2022
*Light Spoilers*
Cheryl Kahn creates a world full of the unexpected in the first book of the Five Senses series, Touch.
We are introduced to Cassandra, also known as Cassie Cyndra. Now Cassie is not your typical teen: she can't be touched. Literally cannot have physical contact with another person - until Gabriel. Gabriel's family helps Cassie and the two become close. Cassie has also had amnesia for the last two years. Vin, a new guy in town, actually turns out to be from Cassie's past, from a time when she was known as Cyndra. He works to help her through her amnesia. Although they become friends in her new life, she still doesn't remember him from before, or anything else.
This is a fantasy like I've never read before. Touch has humans that turn into bears, frog men with poisonous hands, a special relic that helps Cassandra wield her flame powers, nefarious shadow people, and bright lights that turn out to be spirits.
If you're ready for an adventure that keeps you turning the page, then you should most definitely read Touch!
Cheryl Kahn creates a world full of the unexpected in the first book of the Five Senses series, Touch.
We are introduced to Cassandra, also known as Cassie Cyndra. Now Cassie is not your typical teen: she can't be touched. Literally cannot have physical contact with another person - until Gabriel. Gabriel's family helps Cassie and the two become close. Cassie has also had amnesia for the last two years. Vin, a new guy in town, actually turns out to be from Cassie's past, from a time when she was known as Cyndra. He works to help her through her amnesia. Although they become friends in her new life, she still doesn't remember him from before, or anything else.
This is a fantasy like I've never read before. Touch has humans that turn into bears, frog men with poisonous hands, a special relic that helps Cassandra wield her flame powers, nefarious shadow people, and bright lights that turn out to be spirits.
If you're ready for an adventure that keeps you turning the page, then you should most definitely read Touch!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 25, 2022
Thank you so much to Cheryl for sending me a copy of this book!
4.25 ⭐️
This was a unique story of a girl trying to find a sense of family but also herself.
I really loved Cassie. She wakes up with no memories and needs to learn who she can and cannot trust and she’s thrust into this new life and discovering what she’s capable of.
I adored Gram. Like I need her in my life so I can hear her say “Love you angel” I’ll also gladly take some of her cookies and obviously Zoe will need to be in attendance as well.
Also-there are dogs in this book and if you are anything like me and need to know if they will be okay - they will be. Not a single thing happens to them!
I loved the different characters and how atmospheric and descriptive the writing was!
I seriously enjoyed it and honestly if you love magic, suspense, tension and a quest to find the truth and a way to protect - this story is for you. I highly recommend picking it up because you seriously will not be disappointed
I cannot wait to see where the story takes us with book 2!
4.25 ⭐️
This was a unique story of a girl trying to find a sense of family but also herself.
I really loved Cassie. She wakes up with no memories and needs to learn who she can and cannot trust and she’s thrust into this new life and discovering what she’s capable of.
I adored Gram. Like I need her in my life so I can hear her say “Love you angel” I’ll also gladly take some of her cookies and obviously Zoe will need to be in attendance as well.
Also-there are dogs in this book and if you are anything like me and need to know if they will be okay - they will be. Not a single thing happens to them!
I loved the different characters and how atmospheric and descriptive the writing was!
I seriously enjoyed it and honestly if you love magic, suspense, tension and a quest to find the truth and a way to protect - this story is for you. I highly recommend picking it up because you seriously will not be disappointed
I cannot wait to see where the story takes us with book 2!
June 2, 2022
What would you give to keep your family safe?
Cassandra's life, until two years ago is unknown,even to herself. She was found burned and half drowned in the water outside of town. Rose, an older woman, who has the biggest heart possible and takes her in goes to bat for her and is given permission to keep Cassie, for now. The background is set for an exciting story, oh, and there's one other huge factor Cassie can't be touched,when she is she catches fire.
I really enjoyed this novel I found the story reached out and grabbed hold of me. I went willingly, even though it meant staying up all night. This novel was engrossing and throughly enjoyable. I highly recommend it.
Cassandra's life, until two years ago is unknown,even to herself. She was found burned and half drowned in the water outside of town. Rose, an older woman, who has the biggest heart possible and takes her in goes to bat for her and is given permission to keep Cassie, for now. The background is set for an exciting story, oh, and there's one other huge factor Cassie can't be touched,when she is she catches fire.
I really enjoyed this novel I found the story reached out and grabbed hold of me. I went willingly, even though it meant staying up all night. This novel was engrossing and throughly enjoyable. I highly recommend it.
October 7, 2022
I absolutely love this book. I never really thing this but I tried. When I read it I couldn't put it down. I absolutely love this book and can't wait for more from this author.
November 10, 2022
I was honored to be an ARC reader for this book and Cheryl’s new release Taste. This was a fantastic book. The plot is very unique and intriguing. I am already reading her second book. The beginning of the book is slow. You can tell the book was written by a first time author. However, about half way through the book Kahn’s writing starts to hit a stride and seems to come more easily to her. Characters that seemed stiff and/or shallow in the beginning of the book gain more depth and substance. I’m excited to read the second book because I feel like those first book jitters won’t be there. The plot is good and the characters are lovable. The plot twists are plenty and the heartbreak is real. I recommend this book to anyone who wants something a little different. I am also excited for the second book, so we can get into the magic of the world. This book leaves in the dark about the magic until the end of the book and even then there are plenty of unanswered questions. So if you don’t like not knowing or learning about the magical world with the main character this book isn’t for you. I don’t mind that, so it was enjoyable to me. I look forward to the next book and the rest of the series!
September 27, 2022
Right from the beginning I was totally enthralled with this book. I missed out on a lot of sleep, as I found it hard to put down.
With no memory of anything before she was found naked and burned in the river, Cassie has spent the past two years under the care of a lovely old lady whom she called Gram - although she was not really related. Cassie could have no skin to skin contact with anyone or she started to burn, with her skin literally bubbling. Eventually she met (through Gram) a family who were all very different - with a secret of their own. Although they didn't know who she was they knew what she was. However, they had to convince her of this. Someone form her past appears, but she doesn't recognise him. A love triangle is formed between Cassie, the new guy and one of the family she just met.
This book is stuffed full of plot twists, which pulls you in from the beginning. I am so looking forward to book two.
With no memory of anything before she was found naked and burned in the river, Cassie has spent the past two years under the care of a lovely old lady whom she called Gram - although she was not really related. Cassie could have no skin to skin contact with anyone or she started to burn, with her skin literally bubbling. Eventually she met (through Gram) a family who were all very different - with a secret of their own. Although they didn't know who she was they knew what she was. However, they had to convince her of this. Someone form her past appears, but she doesn't recognise him. A love triangle is formed between Cassie, the new guy and one of the family she just met.
This book is stuffed full of plot twists, which pulls you in from the beginning. I am so looking forward to book two.
September 6, 2022
Touch is book 1 of the Five Sense series and I've never been so excited to read the next page since Twilight.
"Let me do this for you. Let me show you I care. All you need to do is hold on for me.”... “Then when you’re better, next time we’re together… next time, I won’t fight my feelings for you anymore.”
Cassie can't remember her past, but she changed and human touch became unbearable. She tries to lead a normal life but what comes ahead can't be stopped. Her journey of self-discovery will keep you going.
Is she the ONE?
Is HE the one for her...?
Who can she trust?
I love a book with a lot of well-written characters and this one doesn't disappoint.
Fantasy, Romance, Mystery. Chapter 17 was my fav I keep going back to reread it.
"Let me do this for you. Let me show you I care. All you need to do is hold on for me.”... “Then when you’re better, next time we’re together… next time, I won’t fight my feelings for you anymore.”
Cassie can't remember her past, but she changed and human touch became unbearable. She tries to lead a normal life but what comes ahead can't be stopped. Her journey of self-discovery will keep you going.
Is she the ONE?
Is HE the one for her...?
Who can she trust?
I love a book with a lot of well-written characters and this one doesn't disappoint.
Fantasy, Romance, Mystery. Chapter 17 was my fav I keep going back to reread it.
July 7, 2022
Oh, my kingdom for half stars! Anyway, onto the book.
First off: the cover's awfully pretty. I know, I know, it seems like a not great thing that I'm starting there but sometimes you've just got to admire the pretty, okay?
Anyway. This one took me a little bit to get into, and I'm willing to say it was likely more me than the book itself, though you do kind of get thrown into the middle of things and sometimes that works and sometimes it doesn't. To be fair, Cassie, our heroine, is also kind of thrown into things already in progress.
Two years prior she was fished from the local river, burned fairly badly, and with no memory of her life before and obviously no family to claim her. Also? Cassie cannot touch another person without being burned, physically, and peeking into their minds/memories at the worst thing they've done/thought about doing. Naturally this does not make high school or life in general any easier for her and so the story begins.
I liked Cassie but the book had some stumbling blocks. I hate cryptic. I hate it so much and no, having Cassie also hate it didn't really do much because it's still cryptic and you still have chapters that go by where one character is trying to figure out this big secret that everyone else is privy to and it drives me bonkers.
Cassie's kind of dense. It takes her way too long to question why her dog does not like a friend of hers (and no, I do not like the explanation given because this dog is fine with other not-quite-normal characters) and she doubts things she's given no reason to doubt just so plot can happen (grr).
Another issue, for me anyway, is that Gabriel doesn't feel... real. Vin might also not feel real, but his is more of an otherworldliness and that makes sense with his character. Gabriel is the YA love interest who is always too good, too kind, too supportive and it's just... too much? It's probably the point, that with his secondary power, he sees the good in everyone and that rubs off on him, but after a good chunk of the book it just feels fake. Which is a shame as I liked the guy but he needed some depth.
Speaking of depth, Bernard also needed depth. And some parenting classes, honestly. His kids have no real adult supervision, AT ALL, and his youngest spends days (weeks?) at someone else's house and it's heartbreaking how happy Cole is to have someone feed and take care of him. The same vibe is given when the teenagers are living alone at the Knight home and the book ends (I did warn you there'd be spoilers) with Cassie and Gabe deciding to go off and find her MIA sister, leaving Cole alone to watch the dogs (one of which they fought over who got to adopt her), despite the fact that his father is basically out of the picture health wise, his cousin is MIA, and his brother just betrayed their entire family. Like cut the kid a break and don't abandon him?
Speaking of breaks: Cassie's got a loooooooooooot of painful shit thrown her way and by the time she loses Vin, it feels like too much. I am an emotional masochist in a lot of ways but even I draw the line somewhere and having Gabriel and Zoe be the only things she still has at the end is just... a choice. I can't even take solace in the fact that the dead aren't necessarily gone in this series because the person giving us this reminder is Cassie's dead twin sister... a character Cassie cannot remember or feel any truly strong feelings for because of her memories being ripped away. It's a lot is all I'm saying.
Oh, and I will say that I cackled at Cassie marveling at how identical her twin was, saying her sister couldn't look more like her if she tried except... twin sister's hair is brown and not the fiery red Cassie has. So yeah, she absolutely could, Cas. She absolutely could. But I get what you were going for.
In general, I liked Cassie and want more of her story.
First off: the cover's awfully pretty. I know, I know, it seems like a not great thing that I'm starting there but sometimes you've just got to admire the pretty, okay?
Anyway. This one took me a little bit to get into, and I'm willing to say it was likely more me than the book itself, though you do kind of get thrown into the middle of things and sometimes that works and sometimes it doesn't. To be fair, Cassie, our heroine, is also kind of thrown into things already in progress.
Two years prior she was fished from the local river, burned fairly badly, and with no memory of her life before and obviously no family to claim her. Also? Cassie cannot touch another person without being burned, physically, and peeking into their minds/memories at the worst thing they've done/thought about doing. Naturally this does not make high school or life in general any easier for her and so the story begins.
I liked Cassie but the book had some stumbling blocks. I hate cryptic. I hate it so much and no, having Cassie also hate it didn't really do much because it's still cryptic and you still have chapters that go by where one character is trying to figure out this big secret that everyone else is privy to and it drives me bonkers.
Cassie's kind of dense. It takes her way too long to question why her dog does not like a friend of hers (and no, I do not like the explanation given because this dog is fine with other not-quite-normal characters) and she doubts things she's given no reason to doubt just so plot can happen (grr).
Another issue, for me anyway, is that Gabriel doesn't feel... real. Vin might also not feel real, but his is more of an otherworldliness and that makes sense with his character. Gabriel is the YA love interest who is always too good, too kind, too supportive and it's just... too much? It's probably the point, that with his secondary power, he sees the good in everyone and that rubs off on him, but after a good chunk of the book it just feels fake. Which is a shame as I liked the guy but he needed some depth.
Speaking of depth, Bernard also needed depth. And some parenting classes, honestly. His kids have no real adult supervision, AT ALL, and his youngest spends days (weeks?) at someone else's house and it's heartbreaking how happy Cole is to have someone feed and take care of him. The same vibe is given when the teenagers are living alone at the Knight home and the book ends (I did warn you there'd be spoilers) with Cassie and Gabe deciding to go off and find her MIA sister, leaving Cole alone to watch the dogs (one of which they fought over who got to adopt her), despite the fact that his father is basically out of the picture health wise, his cousin is MIA, and his brother just betrayed their entire family. Like cut the kid a break and don't abandon him?
Speaking of breaks: Cassie's got a loooooooooooot of painful shit thrown her way and by the time she loses Vin, it feels like too much. I am an emotional masochist in a lot of ways but even I draw the line somewhere and having Gabriel and Zoe be the only things she still has at the end is just... a choice. I can't even take solace in the fact that the dead aren't necessarily gone in this series because the person giving us this reminder is Cassie's dead twin sister... a character Cassie cannot remember or feel any truly strong feelings for because of her memories being ripped away. It's a lot is all I'm saying.
Oh, and I will say that I cackled at Cassie marveling at how identical her twin was, saying her sister couldn't look more like her if she tried except... twin sister's hair is brown and not the fiery red Cassie has. So yeah, she absolutely could, Cas. She absolutely could. But I get what you were going for.
In general, I liked Cassie and want more of her story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 27, 2022
This is book one of the Five Senses series and the main character is a teenage girl called Cassie Merritt by the woman who took her in after she was found half drowned and naked in a local river. She has no memory of her life before she was found, how she got burns over her legs, nor why the slightest of touches can leave her in absolute agony. She has no friends and the kids at school are used to making her suffer at every opportunity, by knocking into her, and making fun of her. She has been labelled a trouble maker and can’t even seek medical attention as no one really knows why she can’t be touched and everything previously tried hasn’t worked and just left her with social workers who don’t believe her and could take her away from the only family she has. Gram, the old lady who took her in, but who she can’t even hug or touch herself! She has no friends until a new boy starts at the school, Gabe (Gabriel) Knight, who can actually touch her and not hurt her. Her skin doesn’t bubble up like a burn with him around and he tries to protect her from the hateful actions of the other kids.
He ends up having to take her home after one event at school and she feels comfortable in his arms, not wanting him to go until she fell asleep. But the day after, she realises her locket is missing, the only item she had on her when she was found in the river. She believes Gabe must have taken it, but there are far darker forces at work! Gabe has two other brothers and his father possibly knows more about what Cassie might be, with his family believing that she might be the One, the Una, they have all been waiting for! Her locket links her to an ancient relic that Gabe’s family protect and keep from the Summum Malum, the evil shadows wanting to destroy this world and continue an ancient war between their worlds. It turns out Grams actually knows his father, but hadn’t spoken or seen him in years. She tells Cassie she can trust Gabe’s father and thus Gabe, but she isn’t sure who she can trust anymore, not when his family are keeping some pretty huge secrets from her and the rest of the human race.
Gabe is the one person she could truly be with and maybe even have the chance to fall in love with, as he is the only one whose touch doesn’t hurt her. He believes she is the Una and has great powers, which she will need her locket to unlock. The secret Fire Relic that his family of Cave Bears and their ancestors, have protected for eons, is in danger of attack by the Jentilak or Gigantes, who want it for their own evil purposes. The Cave Bears are one of the five alternate races meant to guard the relics from danger. But betrayal at treachery are closer to hand than could be imagined and Gabe and Cassie are attacked as they access the cave the relic is within. The attack leads to Cassie getting a very sudden exposure to some of the secrets Gabe and his family have been keeping and it is up to her to figure out if she can truly trust him and listen to him as he tells her she is meant for greater things. She is destined to wield the power of the Fire Relic and must trust in what she is told. She begins to get memories of her past back, but these show another girl like her and a young man called Vin, who knows her and her past. She has far more to do and has someone close who she needs to find and keep safe. So much more to come and I can’t wait to see what other senses are going to be portrayed and what other races and relics will be uncovered next. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
He ends up having to take her home after one event at school and she feels comfortable in his arms, not wanting him to go until she fell asleep. But the day after, she realises her locket is missing, the only item she had on her when she was found in the river. She believes Gabe must have taken it, but there are far darker forces at work! Gabe has two other brothers and his father possibly knows more about what Cassie might be, with his family believing that she might be the One, the Una, they have all been waiting for! Her locket links her to an ancient relic that Gabe’s family protect and keep from the Summum Malum, the evil shadows wanting to destroy this world and continue an ancient war between their worlds. It turns out Grams actually knows his father, but hadn’t spoken or seen him in years. She tells Cassie she can trust Gabe’s father and thus Gabe, but she isn’t sure who she can trust anymore, not when his family are keeping some pretty huge secrets from her and the rest of the human race.
Gabe is the one person she could truly be with and maybe even have the chance to fall in love with, as he is the only one whose touch doesn’t hurt her. He believes she is the Una and has great powers, which she will need her locket to unlock. The secret Fire Relic that his family of Cave Bears and their ancestors, have protected for eons, is in danger of attack by the Jentilak or Gigantes, who want it for their own evil purposes. The Cave Bears are one of the five alternate races meant to guard the relics from danger. But betrayal at treachery are closer to hand than could be imagined and Gabe and Cassie are attacked as they access the cave the relic is within. The attack leads to Cassie getting a very sudden exposure to some of the secrets Gabe and his family have been keeping and it is up to her to figure out if she can truly trust him and listen to him as he tells her she is meant for greater things. She is destined to wield the power of the Fire Relic and must trust in what she is told. She begins to get memories of her past back, but these show another girl like her and a young man called Vin, who knows her and her past. She has far more to do and has someone close who she needs to find and keep safe. So much more to come and I can’t wait to see what other senses are going to be portrayed and what other races and relics will be uncovered next. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
July 10, 2022
Such a good book. So many unexpected plot twists and so many lovable characters!! I really enjoyed the unique storyline. Super cool! I recommend, go check this out!
October 22, 2022
Title: Touch
Author: Cheryl Kahn
Publisher: Radiant Road Press
ISBN: B09VYH2RMP
Buy Link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09...
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
Five Senses 1
An inexplicable condition. An excruciating reaction to human touch. No one she can trust.
When high schooler Cassie Merritt is found in a river with no memory, it's a miracle she survives. But there’s nothing miraculous about her scars or the burning agony she feels at the simplest touch. Her new guardian, who she lovingly calls Gram, can’t hug her. If she had any friends, they couldn’t get close, either.
Seeking medical attention could rip her away from Gram and the only life she can remember. Which leaves Cassie to turn to the one person whose touch doesn’t burn her: Gabriel Knight.
Gabriel believes her condition is tied to a missing locket, and more crucially, an ancient relic and the power she’s destined to wield. But it seems he and his odd family are keeping secrets from her… dark secrets that could prove more painful than touch itself.
In order to find the truth of her past and get a chance at love, Cassie must decide if she trusts Gabriel. But with an ancient war between this world and the next looming, she must decide soon… before evil ravages her small town in irrevocable ways.
Readers are addicted to TOUCH, the first book in the Five Senses series.
Total Score: 5/5
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Summary:
Imagine not being able to touch another human soul or suffer excruciating pain? Cassie doesn’t wonder because she experiences it every day. After an accident, Cassie was found horribly burnt with no memory of who she was or want happened to her. This left her feeling isolated and alone with no one believing the pain she felt was real until she met her new guardian Gram who gave her all the love and support she had to give and the space she needed. Unfortunately, the kids at school love to torment anyone different leaving Cassie apart once again.
That is until Cassie met Gabriel Knight who for some reason can touch her. Gabriel and his family have their own problems and secrets that Gram thinks can help Cassie. This is the beginning of an adventure that take Cassie on a journey to find herself, but there are dangers around every corner leaving the reader to wonder who is friend and who is foe. The key is trust, but who should Cassie put her trust in?
Author: Cheryl Kahn
Publisher: Radiant Road Press
ISBN: B09VYH2RMP
Buy Link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09...
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
Five Senses 1
An inexplicable condition. An excruciating reaction to human touch. No one she can trust.
When high schooler Cassie Merritt is found in a river with no memory, it's a miracle she survives. But there’s nothing miraculous about her scars or the burning agony she feels at the simplest touch. Her new guardian, who she lovingly calls Gram, can’t hug her. If she had any friends, they couldn’t get close, either.
Seeking medical attention could rip her away from Gram and the only life she can remember. Which leaves Cassie to turn to the one person whose touch doesn’t burn her: Gabriel Knight.
Gabriel believes her condition is tied to a missing locket, and more crucially, an ancient relic and the power she’s destined to wield. But it seems he and his odd family are keeping secrets from her… dark secrets that could prove more painful than touch itself.
In order to find the truth of her past and get a chance at love, Cassie must decide if she trusts Gabriel. But with an ancient war between this world and the next looming, she must decide soon… before evil ravages her small town in irrevocable ways.
Readers are addicted to TOUCH, the first book in the Five Senses series.
Total Score: 5/5
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Summary:
Imagine not being able to touch another human soul or suffer excruciating pain? Cassie doesn’t wonder because she experiences it every day. After an accident, Cassie was found horribly burnt with no memory of who she was or want happened to her. This left her feeling isolated and alone with no one believing the pain she felt was real until she met her new guardian Gram who gave her all the love and support she had to give and the space she needed. Unfortunately, the kids at school love to torment anyone different leaving Cassie apart once again.
That is until Cassie met Gabriel Knight who for some reason can touch her. Gabriel and his family have their own problems and secrets that Gram thinks can help Cassie. This is the beginning of an adventure that take Cassie on a journey to find herself, but there are dangers around every corner leaving the reader to wonder who is friend and who is foe. The key is trust, but who should Cassie put her trust in?
August 17, 2022
Okay first off 🙃 I cried, YES I DID. I love a good story that knows how to break my heart 😂 and then leave me in suspense for another book 🙃🤪 I'm rather impatient and will be getting a physical copy if I can lol
We STAN a book with great characters and an amazing plot 🤪 and at the same time STILL be able to make you feel every emotion and then some
ALSO
shapeshifters ✔️
Chosen one trope ✔️
mystery past ✔️
good vs evil theme ✔️
Finding the one ✔️🤪
damsel in distress (kinda?)
Heart wrenching betrayal - love triangle (🤪 don't judge me I love a good love triangle)
Long story short, I am addicted, I have a million reasons why 👀 and I would be happy to talk about them all ONCE you've read the book
We STAN a book with great characters and an amazing plot 🤪 and at the same time STILL be able to make you feel every emotion and then some
ALSO
shapeshifters ✔️
Chosen one trope ✔️
mystery past ✔️
good vs evil theme ✔️
Finding the one ✔️🤪
damsel in distress (kinda?)
Heart wrenching betrayal - love triangle (🤪 don't judge me I love a good love triangle)
Long story short, I am addicted, I have a million reasons why 👀 and I would be happy to talk about them all ONCE you've read the book
October 11, 2022
I know this book is book 1 in the series but I read it as a 2nd book, since I read book 2 first. Since I did that there were a few spoilers but that didn't change how much I loved this book. This series is amazing and a must read for everyone.
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