What do you think?
Rate this book
Circulus: Book 1 of the Tenebris Trilogy
Nestled in the forest amongst old-growth trees and ancient flora, sits the idyllic small town of Oneoff. Rich in history as a once-booming hub, this sleepy little hamlet has been withering in economic decay for over a decade. When Shayleigh Brogan blows into town with big plans to breathe new life into Oneoff, everyone is buzzing with excitement. Everyone, that is, except for Lucas.Lucas McCallen is the town’s stoic young sheriff. His entire life has been spent running from the mythic lore of his family’s haunted past. When the rumor mill churns with excitement, all his instincts scream resistance until Ms. Brogan stumbles onto an old crime scene and unleashes an evil entity.His house of cards begins crumbling as he races to unravel the vile history of the town’s namesake with his own ancestors’ involvement. Only if he accepts his magical heritage, and releases his delusions of safety, will he be able to fight for what he loves.He can’t run from his destiny forever… and the darkness is rising.
416 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 1, 2022
1 person is currently reading
1 person want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
September 20, 2022
First off - Thanks for the ARC!
Oh My God!, What a wonderful & Soul wrenching read. This is the best book i have read this month. Truly satisfying read. Fantastic characters.
The world building is gradual but in a definitive way with no loopholes at all. The magic system is amazing and one of a kind. The more I let my typing go unchecked, I might spoil the fun and adventure this book has to offer.....
Initially, the storyline started slowly and a classic character introduction which keeps wondering where is the magic in it??? But then, Bam!!! once the story picks up pace, you are just grounded until you finish it. I loved each and every page, paragraph, word in this book.
Now i wish i had the second book & could start off immediately.
This series if for anyone who loves Fantasy and in general anyone. Infact, everyone should pick up this book. Mostly, if you are looking for something to get you off your reading slump, Just start with this, I guarantee your slump will be kicked out~
Request for Author - Please do send me the next book as soon as its done. Can't wait :)
Oh My God!, What a wonderful & Soul wrenching read. This is the best book i have read this month. Truly satisfying read. Fantastic characters.
The world building is gradual but in a definitive way with no loopholes at all. The magic system is amazing and one of a kind. The more I let my typing go unchecked, I might spoil the fun and adventure this book has to offer.....
Initially, the storyline started slowly and a classic character introduction which keeps wondering where is the magic in it??? But then, Bam!!! once the story picks up pace, you are just grounded until you finish it. I loved each and every page, paragraph, word in this book.
Now i wish i had the second book & could start off immediately.
This series if for anyone who loves Fantasy and in general anyone. Infact, everyone should pick up this book. Mostly, if you are looking for something to get you off your reading slump, Just start with this, I guarantee your slump will be kicked out~
Request for Author - Please do send me the next book as soon as its done. Can't wait :)
October 1, 2022
Overall while I enjoyed the story itself, I found it riddled with stereotypes and it was uncomfortable to read terms that are known to be derogatory/racist. For example, the use of “Gypsy” throughout the book seemed unnecessary, and Shayleigh’s response of being “a little protective” seems to underplay the sensitive nature of the word. It’s one thing for Shayleigh to use the word herself, but for other people to call her that in a negative context, coupled with Lucas’ remark about her gold hooped earrings... It just made for an uncomfortable read.
Another issue was with Rye calling himself “African deliciousness” and making references to Kool-Aid. These came off as awfully fetish-y and stereotypical to me. I don’t want to harp on sensitivity too much, but I have to admit these things did prevent me from fully enjoying this story.
These points aside, I really enjoyed seeing things from different perspectives. While the entire book is in 3rd person I like that we see what’s going on with Lucas, Shay, and Rye at different points of the story. The magic and fantasy elements were incorporated very well and it made for an intriguing story.
Disclaimer: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Another issue was with Rye calling himself “African deliciousness” and making references to Kool-Aid. These came off as awfully fetish-y and stereotypical to me. I don’t want to harp on sensitivity too much, but I have to admit these things did prevent me from fully enjoying this story.
These points aside, I really enjoyed seeing things from different perspectives. While the entire book is in 3rd person I like that we see what’s going on with Lucas, Shay, and Rye at different points of the story. The magic and fantasy elements were incorporated very well and it made for an intriguing story.
Disclaimer: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 5, 2022
this was a great start to the Tenebris Trilogy series, I loved the blend of fantasy and mystery. It had a great tense atmosphere that I wanted from the description. I enjoyed the way Heather D. Nelson and look forward to more from her.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 20, 2022
The beginning of a great story!
A story that nicely weaves fantasy with a dark twist and a mystery that will have a profound effect on the small town called Oneoff.
The book has an excellent opening as Lucas's parents lose their lives, taking on darkness, and leaving their son with secrets he struggles to understand.
I absolutely loved Lucas and how realistic his feelings towards Shayleigh are, as she looks into brightening Oneoff's economy.
These feelings intensify for both of them during one heck of a haunting encounter in the old, abandoned brick factory. The small town of Oneoff is its own character, filled with quirky, spirited people working hard to make this town a place to see.I highly recommend this book and can't wait for the next book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
A story that nicely weaves fantasy with a dark twist and a mystery that will have a profound effect on the small town called Oneoff.
The book has an excellent opening as Lucas's parents lose their lives, taking on darkness, and leaving their son with secrets he struggles to understand.
I absolutely loved Lucas and how realistic his feelings towards Shayleigh are, as she looks into brightening Oneoff's economy.
These feelings intensify for both of them during one heck of a haunting encounter in the old, abandoned brick factory. The small town of Oneoff is its own character, filled with quirky, spirited people working hard to make this town a place to see.I highly recommend this book and can't wait for the next book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 3, 2022
Circulus by H.D. Nelson
As I enter the world of publishing, I was thrilled to receive this ARC and get a chance to read and review before the book is officially published.
Coming soon, Circulus by Heather Nelson is a wonderfully written, tug-at-your-heartstrings fantasy fiction book. At first, the prologue felt a little puzzling but as the story went on and the world and characters were developed, everything came together seamlessly.
I instantly was drawn to the town of Oneoff and the characters in town and loved the development of every single one, especially the connections that grew between Lucas, Rye, Shayleigh, and Doc. I truly enjoyed how Nelson was so clever in her writing by making sure the readers know there is magic, but not having it be so in-your-face obvious, which left me curiously anticipating and wanting to learn more, which made Lucas’ character that much more relatable.
The twists and turns kept me on the edge of my seat and wanting to know what happens next. Circulus is an excellent start to the Tenebris Trilogy and I look forward to seeing how the next book continues the story.
As I enter the world of publishing, I was thrilled to receive this ARC and get a chance to read and review before the book is officially published.
Coming soon, Circulus by Heather Nelson is a wonderfully written, tug-at-your-heartstrings fantasy fiction book. At first, the prologue felt a little puzzling but as the story went on and the world and characters were developed, everything came together seamlessly.
I instantly was drawn to the town of Oneoff and the characters in town and loved the development of every single one, especially the connections that grew between Lucas, Rye, Shayleigh, and Doc. I truly enjoyed how Nelson was so clever in her writing by making sure the readers know there is magic, but not having it be so in-your-face obvious, which left me curiously anticipating and wanting to learn more, which made Lucas’ character that much more relatable.
The twists and turns kept me on the edge of my seat and wanting to know what happens next. Circulus is an excellent start to the Tenebris Trilogy and I look forward to seeing how the next book continues the story.
October 8, 2022
I liked the story concept a lot and the ending was definitely fast paced and exciting. However, I had a hard time with the different relationships. Perhaps it was because the dialogue was not as strong as I would have liked but while it was clear that Lucas was supposed to be very close with Doc and Ryan, it felt a bit forced. And I didn't feel the connection between Lucas and Shay. This definitely had good potential and perhaps in book two I'd feel it more...
The description of the setting was very good and there were plenty of interesting characters -- so I think there's a lot to work with here and while I didn't love this story, I would definitely be interested in seeing Book Two in the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The description of the setting was very good and there were plenty of interesting characters -- so I think there's a lot to work with here and while I didn't love this story, I would definitely be interested in seeing Book Two in the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 20, 2022
It was really exciting to read this book. The story was quite interesting. You will get lost in the wonderful world the writer has created.
Main characters were likeable that developed themselves as the plot was driven forward.
I especially liked Shayleigh's character development.
I also liked lucas and appreciated the way he was caught up between his past and how he coped up with the idea of being who he was.
Romance between Lucas and Shay was sweet and slowburn.
The mystery in this book kept me hooked.
The only issue I had was how confusing the plot became at times with so many revelations being made. But everything did make sense by the end.
Overall this is totally an entertaining urban fantasy and a great start to what promises to be a great series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Main characters were likeable that developed themselves as the plot was driven forward.
I especially liked Shayleigh's character development.
I also liked lucas and appreciated the way he was caught up between his past and how he coped up with the idea of being who he was.
Romance between Lucas and Shay was sweet and slowburn.
The mystery in this book kept me hooked.
The only issue I had was how confusing the plot became at times with so many revelations being made. But everything did make sense by the end.
Overall this is totally an entertaining urban fantasy and a great start to what promises to be a great series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 15, 2022
Received as a review copy from Booksirens, this is an honest review. A story that nicely weaves fantasy with a dark twist and a mystery that will have a deep affect upon the small town called Oneoff. This book has an awesome opening as Lucas's parents lose their lives taking on a violent darkness, leaving their son with secrets he struggles to understand. I really enjoyed the character of Lucas and how realistic his feelings towards Shayleigh, as she looks into brightening Oneoff's economy. These feelings intensify for both of them during one heck of an haunting encounter in the old, abandoned brick factory. The small town of Oneoff is its own character filled with quirky, spirited people working hard to make this town a place to see. A smart adventure to begin this series, highly recommended.
September 27, 2022
The world of Circulus is lush and vibrant, a green haven hidden in a special corner of the wider world. The pacing of the story was satisfying, always giving you something without revealing too much and maintaining my interest until the end of the book. The characters are enjoyable – I did find myself occasionally frustrated with Lucas for not listening to anyone, but if all main listened and did everything right all the time then there wouldn’t be any need for stories, right? The magic system in the Circulus world seems promising as well – and I have a feeling that we’ve barely scratched the surface with it.
Overall an enjoyable read, and a lovely first fiction from the Author.
Overall an enjoyable read, and a lovely first fiction from the Author.
September 30, 2022
I got an arc copy of this book but that did not influence this review in anyway.
This was a brilliant start to a trilogy. I was hooked from the first chapter. A couple chapters were a little slow and I wasn’t the biggest fan how quick the emotional relationship between characters started but it got better throughout the story. A few parts felt repetitive but overall it was a great book!
I love the slow build up to abilities and it wasn’t so obvious and shoved down your throat. It felt like a coming of age story of the main character moving on from one stage of his life to another.
I highly recommend for those into romance and fantasy!
This was a brilliant start to a trilogy. I was hooked from the first chapter. A couple chapters were a little slow and I wasn’t the biggest fan how quick the emotional relationship between characters started but it got better throughout the story. A few parts felt repetitive but overall it was a great book!
I love the slow build up to abilities and it wasn’t so obvious and shoved down your throat. It felt like a coming of age story of the main character moving on from one stage of his life to another.
I highly recommend for those into romance and fantasy!
October 3, 2022
I found this book difficult to review without giving spoilers.
Not the 'normal' way for magic to be in a book, you know it is there but it isn't as blatant as some books would be, but I did enjoy it! The characters and their development throughout the story is a pleasure to read, although it did take a little while to get going - stick with it though as it is worth it.
There are surprises throughout, twists and reveals that will keep you wanting more. An excellent start to a trilogy that leaves you wanting to read book 2 straight away!
I received an advanced review copy of this book, and I am leaving an honest and voluntary review.
Not the 'normal' way for magic to be in a book, you know it is there but it isn't as blatant as some books would be, but I did enjoy it! The characters and their development throughout the story is a pleasure to read, although it did take a little while to get going - stick with it though as it is worth it.
There are surprises throughout, twists and reveals that will keep you wanting more. An excellent start to a trilogy that leaves you wanting to read book 2 straight away!
I received an advanced review copy of this book, and I am leaving an honest and voluntary review.
September 10, 2022
The only reason I am giving this 4 stars and not five is because it felt like it was the middle book of a series and not the first, like I am still missing so much of the plot that my brain is finding it hard to fully understand what I just read. I did enjoy that you got to see the inside workings of the main characters but their lives did not fill in some of the gaps that were left when trying to fill in the background scenery, if that makes sense.
Thank you to booksirens and the author for the free ARC in return for my review
Thank you to booksirens and the author for the free ARC in return for my review
September 23, 2022
I wasn’t sure when I first started reading where the story was going to go, but this story sucked me in and didn’t let go! I’m an avid reader of all different types of genres and this book did not disappoint for one single second!! By the time I got to the end I didn’t want it to be over because I wanted more! You need to read this if you love fantasy and magic, trust me, you’ll love it!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 28, 2022
Circulus is a slow burner. Beginning with a gradual introduction to the characters and magical word. Suddenly the storyline takes off and you are left wondering how you finished the book in one night.
This book is a great blend of fantasy and mystery that keeps you guessing about what is going to come next.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves fantasy, mystery and is looking for a nice feel good read.
Thank you to BookSirens for the ARC, all opinions are my own and freely given
This book is a great blend of fantasy and mystery that keeps you guessing about what is going to come next.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves fantasy, mystery and is looking for a nice feel good read.
Thank you to BookSirens for the ARC, all opinions are my own and freely given
September 30, 2022
Very good, relatable characters. Interesting lore and story building. Human dialog which is always nice (not relying on a thesaurus) and good humor. I enjoyed the story and am invested in the characters. Only thing that kept it from a 5 star rating is it was just a little slow moving for my tastes. The quick jump at the beginning into mystery definitely gets your attention. I'm still hooked and look forward to more.
*I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
*I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
September 30, 2022
CIRCULUS: Book 1 of the Tenebris Trilogy is a fantastic intertwining of all the most satisfying book genres. You start with great characters that get you invested from the start and an endearing, idealistic town. Add an intoxicating passion, a long standing mystery, a sprinkle of adventure and of course MAGIC! I don’t want to spoil anything so I’ll leave it at - I can’t wait to see where book 2 will lead!
I received a free advance copy of this book in return for a fair and honest review.
I received a free advance copy of this book in return for a fair and honest review.
February 27, 2023
I am going to try and write this without giving anything away.
Well, what can I say? This was totally not what I was expecting...I loved it. I was hooked from the very beginning. Once I read the synopsis, I was so emotionally invested that I prayed the story held its momentum.
I was instantly in love with the characters in this story. I love Rye's no-nonsense personality and Lucas's loyalty to his friends and community. I thought I had a bad guy/gal pegged BOY I WAS WRONG! I thought that it was clever not to throw magic in our faces the whole time, we knew it was there. We just didn't know who exactly had it, when they would use it/what they had.
I love how Heather makes you "feel" what each person is feeling, the way she writes is beautiful. I am a very visual reader, as I am reading I am actually "seeing" what I am reading. It is hard for visual readers sometimes if the author tells the story in lieu of showing us the story. I feel like this story was both told and shown beautifully.
“I received a free advance copy of this book in return for a fair and honest review.”
Well, what can I say? This was totally not what I was expecting...I loved it. I was hooked from the very beginning. Once I read the synopsis, I was so emotionally invested that I prayed the story held its momentum.
I was instantly in love with the characters in this story. I love Rye's no-nonsense personality and Lucas's loyalty to his friends and community. I thought I had a bad guy/gal pegged BOY I WAS WRONG! I thought that it was clever not to throw magic in our faces the whole time, we knew it was there. We just didn't know who exactly had it, when they would use it/what they had.
I love how Heather makes you "feel" what each person is feeling, the way she writes is beautiful. I am a very visual reader, as I am reading I am actually "seeing" what I am reading. It is hard for visual readers sometimes if the author tells the story in lieu of showing us the story. I feel like this story was both told and shown beautifully.
“I received a free advance copy of this book in return for a fair and honest review.”
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews