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Five Senses #2
Taste
Drowning without dying. Starving, but only hungry for blood. Raised in isolation and sought by the Summum Malum cult who would burn her alive.
Ellis is never truly free. But she understands the rules of her world as the bearer of the long-lost water relic—until she is kidnapped and tortured to the brink of death and discovers there’s a new enemy to “alternates” like herself: the US government. So, when young Special Agent Jackson Hunter saves her from a lab fire, Ellis must decide if she should trust his kind heart or fear his fatigues.
With her entire family captive, dead, or missing, Ellis takes a chance on the handsome soldier. But not all heroes are flawless, and Ellis is unsure how much of her own tainted past to share with this perfect stranger. The unlikely pair embark on a desperate cross-country search for the water relic that will unlock the ancient power Ellis is destined to wield. Without it, her family, her race, and perhaps the world will crumble in the Summum Malum’s tightening fist.
Outmaneuvering malignant Shadows, black ops soldiers, and traitorous alternates on her way, Ellis must determine once and for all if the man she’s falling for is her greatest asset or her most devastating enemy.
TASTE is the blood-pumping sequel to TOUCH, the first installment of the Five Senses saga. Dive deeper into the lore of the alternates and fall in love with Cassie’s quippy, reluctantly courageous younger sister on the continuing quest to retrieve the five relics, restore the afterlife, and reunite a family.
Ellis is never truly free. But she understands the rules of her world as the bearer of the long-lost water relic—until she is kidnapped and tortured to the brink of death and discovers there’s a new enemy to “alternates” like herself: the US government. So, when young Special Agent Jackson Hunter saves her from a lab fire, Ellis must decide if she should trust his kind heart or fear his fatigues.
With her entire family captive, dead, or missing, Ellis takes a chance on the handsome soldier. But not all heroes are flawless, and Ellis is unsure how much of her own tainted past to share with this perfect stranger. The unlikely pair embark on a desperate cross-country search for the water relic that will unlock the ancient power Ellis is destined to wield. Without it, her family, her race, and perhaps the world will crumble in the Summum Malum’s tightening fist.
Outmaneuvering malignant Shadows, black ops soldiers, and traitorous alternates on her way, Ellis must determine once and for all if the man she’s falling for is her greatest asset or her most devastating enemy.
TASTE is the blood-pumping sequel to TOUCH, the first installment of the Five Senses saga. Dive deeper into the lore of the alternates and fall in love with Cassie’s quippy, reluctantly courageous younger sister on the continuing quest to retrieve the five relics, restore the afterlife, and reunite a family.
468 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 10, 2022
9 people are currently reading
58 people want to read
About the author
Cheryl Kahn
4 books48 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 46 reviews
September 15, 2022
THE WISHING SHELF BOOK AWARDS
14th September 2022
TITLE: Taste
AUTHOR: Cheryl Kahn
Star Rating: 5
To Sum Up
‘A cleverly plotted fantasy thriller populated with a host of gritty and complex characters. Highly recommended!” The Wishing Shelf
Review
I find the best part of a YA fantasy novel is often the characters. And this is very much the case in Taste, the sequel to Cheryl Kahn´s superbly crafted Touch. In this compelling story of power struggle, betrayal and even love, the characters, particularly Ellis, jump off the page. It’s all very gritty, very dark, and wonderfully fun as they fight to find the water relic and unlock Ellis´s powers. Kitkat, that´s the fluffy cat, is pretty cute too!
So, what´s the plot? Well, in a nutshell, Ellis and a handsome trooper called Jackson - who she's hoping she can trust but, hey, who knows - set off to discover the whereabouts of a water relic which, in Ellis´s hands, will help her to save the world - and her family. But the journey is thought with dangers, including the powerful and evil Shadows. What follows is a twisting plot, a host of memorable (and not in a Mary Poppins sort of way) characters, and a memorable ending.
From the opening – and very powerfully written – opening chapter, this is a compelling narrative. The plot is cleverly constructed, the setting is splendidly described, and the pacing is, for the most part, spot on. In terms of writing style, the author's very talented. She works well with speech, and she knows when to keep a sentence short (as you´ll see from the first chapter); this is not an author who's fallen into the trap of purple prose.
I am very happy to recommend this book (and the first book, Touch) to YA readers who enjoy dark, fantasy novels. The plot is complex – but not overly so – and the characters, particularly the two protagonists, are well-defined and interesting to get to know. I'll finish with the last line of the novel which, I feel, sums up the story and the style of writing perfectly.
We had an enemy to defeat and a world to save. After breakfast.
A Wishing Shelf Review
www.thewsa.co.uk
14th September 2022
TITLE: Taste
AUTHOR: Cheryl Kahn
Star Rating: 5
To Sum Up
‘A cleverly plotted fantasy thriller populated with a host of gritty and complex characters. Highly recommended!” The Wishing Shelf
Review
I find the best part of a YA fantasy novel is often the characters. And this is very much the case in Taste, the sequel to Cheryl Kahn´s superbly crafted Touch. In this compelling story of power struggle, betrayal and even love, the characters, particularly Ellis, jump off the page. It’s all very gritty, very dark, and wonderfully fun as they fight to find the water relic and unlock Ellis´s powers. Kitkat, that´s the fluffy cat, is pretty cute too!
So, what´s the plot? Well, in a nutshell, Ellis and a handsome trooper called Jackson - who she's hoping she can trust but, hey, who knows - set off to discover the whereabouts of a water relic which, in Ellis´s hands, will help her to save the world - and her family. But the journey is thought with dangers, including the powerful and evil Shadows. What follows is a twisting plot, a host of memorable (and not in a Mary Poppins sort of way) characters, and a memorable ending.
From the opening – and very powerfully written – opening chapter, this is a compelling narrative. The plot is cleverly constructed, the setting is splendidly described, and the pacing is, for the most part, spot on. In terms of writing style, the author's very talented. She works well with speech, and she knows when to keep a sentence short (as you´ll see from the first chapter); this is not an author who's fallen into the trap of purple prose.
I am very happy to recommend this book (and the first book, Touch) to YA readers who enjoy dark, fantasy novels. The plot is complex – but not overly so – and the characters, particularly the two protagonists, are well-defined and interesting to get to know. I'll finish with the last line of the novel which, I feel, sums up the story and the style of writing perfectly.
We had an enemy to defeat and a world to save. After breakfast.
A Wishing Shelf Review
www.thewsa.co.uk
October 18, 2022
You will not want to put down this book! This is an action-packed adventure following Cyndra/Cassie’s sister, Ellis, from Book 1 (Touch). Captured by government officials, Ellis escapes and begins her quest to reconnect with her family and her guidestone with the help of a bobcat and a familiar face from her captivity.
Taste can definitely be read as a stand-alone story. I highly recommend checking out this fantasy/sci-fi/romance young adult novel and diving more into this world of alternate species with special abilities.
I received an ARC of this novel and am voluntarily leaving this review.
Taste can definitely be read as a stand-alone story. I highly recommend checking out this fantasy/sci-fi/romance young adult novel and diving more into this world of alternate species with special abilities.
I received an ARC of this novel and am voluntarily leaving this review.
October 9, 2022
Another amazing novel by Cheryl Kahn🥰. At first I though that Gabriel and Cassie cannot be replaced but boy was I wrong🙈. I am stan of Ellis and Jackson now😌
Ellis is just the type of heroine I love and you could really see her arc throughout the story💓. From weakend girl who went through a lot (and I mean A LOT A LOT) to a fierce fighter who fights for herself and the people she loves💓.
Jackson...well lets just say that Jackson screwed up a few times, but El forgave him so I did too😌. He had his traumas as well🤷♀️ so I'll give him a pass😌.
Oh oh oh and the plot twist with a certain cat in the end?
I so did not see that one coming😍😍👌
Honestly cannot wait for the next book in the series💓
I'll just finish off with a strong: you won't regret giving this ya series a chance🥰
Ellis is just the type of heroine I love and you could really see her arc throughout the story💓. From weakend girl who went through a lot (and I mean A LOT A LOT) to a fierce fighter who fights for herself and the people she loves💓.
Jackson...well lets just say that Jackson screwed up a few times, but El forgave him so I did too😌. He had his traumas as well🤷♀️ so I'll give him a pass😌.
Oh oh oh and the plot twist with a certain cat in the end?
I so did not see that one coming😍😍👌
Honestly cannot wait for the next book in the series💓
I'll just finish off with a strong: you won't regret giving this ya series a chance🥰
December 5, 2023
"Taste" is the second book in the YA fantasy series "Five Senses" by the talented Cheryl Kahn. If you thought the first book was good, do not miss this one because it is even better.
The story begins with Ellie close to death inside a water tank in a place she does not recognize. Luckily, with some help, she escapes from that complex to enter a dangerous world where she cannot trust anybody and possesses powers she does not understand. She embarks on a journey to discover the potential of her powers, to understand them, and to find her missing family while trying to survive the attacks of an evil organization.
While this book is the sequel to the first book, and some references are taken from the first book, you can read it perfectly as a standalone story. However, I recommend reading both books to fully enjoy the story. The author achieves maintaining the reader's focus and eagerness to keep reading in each episode. I enjoyed the mini-cliffhangers at the end of each episode, urging me to flip the page and start the next episode right after it.
The evolution and interaction of all the characters within the story are perfect; I simply loved them all. You will also love the different script twists in the story.
The book is perfect for young adults and older readers who love their stories full of action and twists, drama, and tension. I heartily recommend this story.
The story begins with Ellie close to death inside a water tank in a place she does not recognize. Luckily, with some help, she escapes from that complex to enter a dangerous world where she cannot trust anybody and possesses powers she does not understand. She embarks on a journey to discover the potential of her powers, to understand them, and to find her missing family while trying to survive the attacks of an evil organization.
While this book is the sequel to the first book, and some references are taken from the first book, you can read it perfectly as a standalone story. However, I recommend reading both books to fully enjoy the story. The author achieves maintaining the reader's focus and eagerness to keep reading in each episode. I enjoyed the mini-cliffhangers at the end of each episode, urging me to flip the page and start the next episode right after it.
The evolution and interaction of all the characters within the story are perfect; I simply loved them all. You will also love the different script twists in the story.
The book is perfect for young adults and older readers who love their stories full of action and twists, drama, and tension. I heartily recommend this story.
June 16, 2023
Fantastic end to book 2
When I started reading this one, I was thinking it is Cassie's past story. I was surprised to see this sequel being something totally different. It is definitely connected to book 1 but can be read on its own as it gives glimpses of the previous story but stays relevant to the new plotline.
This one dives straight into an adventurous momentum with a mysterious setting. Soon, I found out Taste is about Cassie's younger sister, Ella. It is thrilling and full of dark and supernatural elements with shape shifters. Some of the mystery around Summum Malum is brought to light by Alanna, the departed one. Her light guides the gifted sisters towards the right path. Jackson is another character that I felt was so human. Of course he also has powers of his own, but his nature is so relatable. Especially his trust in Dr. Craig is contradictory to his relationship with Ell. Yet he tries to balance it until he no longer can. I was shocked to see the reveal around KitKat's identity. It was a sweet reunion that put a smile on my face.
Cassie and Gabriel took a backseat, which was understandable. I can see the author is offering Cassie's POV as well. And that is way too tempting. I might just avail that offer.
This one ended with a prophecy of a bleaker future. I know it sounds grim but the plot has thickened without any cliffhangers.
I must read the next book now. Soon!
When I started reading this one, I was thinking it is Cassie's past story. I was surprised to see this sequel being something totally different. It is definitely connected to book 1 but can be read on its own as it gives glimpses of the previous story but stays relevant to the new plotline.
This one dives straight into an adventurous momentum with a mysterious setting. Soon, I found out Taste is about Cassie's younger sister, Ella. It is thrilling and full of dark and supernatural elements with shape shifters. Some of the mystery around Summum Malum is brought to light by Alanna, the departed one. Her light guides the gifted sisters towards the right path. Jackson is another character that I felt was so human. Of course he also has powers of his own, but his nature is so relatable. Especially his trust in Dr. Craig is contradictory to his relationship with Ell. Yet he tries to balance it until he no longer can. I was shocked to see the reveal around KitKat's identity. It was a sweet reunion that put a smile on my face.
Cassie and Gabriel took a backseat, which was understandable. I can see the author is offering Cassie's POV as well. And that is way too tempting. I might just avail that offer.
This one ended with a prophecy of a bleaker future. I know it sounds grim but the plot has thickened without any cliffhangers.
I must read the next book now. Soon!
September 13, 2022
I loved book 1 " Touch" so i was excited to continue this adventure and i was not disappointed, this second instalment is great.
Ellis knows about the supernatural and its danger but she was not expecting the governement to become a new ennemy so captured, tortured, experimented upon she is slowly dying. When Jackson a soldier decide to help she accepts hoping to finally have allies when all her family is missing or worse....but trust need time to built and to strenghten..Ellis is willing to give Jackson a chance though he is not aware of all dangers as he is doubting himself as well.
To save the supernatural Ellis must find her relic and her powers with kitkat helps and Jackson she gathers allies, information and discover secrets
Jackson is a good guy, loyal but also so naïve, he is not trusting himself with his powers so he is doubting others at the worst time. He is not perfect but he is trying to be.
I really loved to see Ellis with Kitkat and how the "bobcat" was doubting Jackson at first it was funny and i loved to see each relation slowly getting stronger. Secondary characters are great too the story is full of action, tension and little touch of romance it was really great. However, there are also moments of despair,murders, tortures and some tissues will be more than needed.
This is really an excellent series but must be read in order or you will get confused fast.
Ellis knows about the supernatural and its danger but she was not expecting the governement to become a new ennemy so captured, tortured, experimented upon she is slowly dying. When Jackson a soldier decide to help she accepts hoping to finally have allies when all her family is missing or worse....but trust need time to built and to strenghten..Ellis is willing to give Jackson a chance though he is not aware of all dangers as he is doubting himself as well.
To save the supernatural Ellis must find her relic and her powers with kitkat helps and Jackson she gathers allies, information and discover secrets
Jackson is a good guy, loyal but also so naïve, he is not trusting himself with his powers so he is doubting others at the worst time. He is not perfect but he is trying to be.
I really loved to see Ellis with Kitkat and how the "bobcat" was doubting Jackson at first it was funny and i loved to see each relation slowly getting stronger. Secondary characters are great too the story is full of action, tension and little touch of romance it was really great. However, there are also moments of despair,murders, tortures and some tissues will be more than needed.
This is really an excellent series but must be read in order or you will get confused fast.
October 1, 2022
This book is amazing. I know this is the 2nd book in the series but I read this book 1st. And this book can easily be read on its own. If I ever had a question it was answered shortly afterwards.
September 1, 2023
“I’m strong and capable. I’ll never believe otherwise again.”
This book is so fast-paced in the best way! I loved the author’s writing style, it flowed the story along effortlessly. Ellis had such an empowering arc. There are wonderful elements of action/adventure, fantasy, romance, and the supernatural. Such an entertaining read the whole way through.
This book is so fast-paced in the best way! I loved the author’s writing style, it flowed the story along effortlessly. Ellis had such an empowering arc. There are wonderful elements of action/adventure, fantasy, romance, and the supernatural. Such an entertaining read the whole way through.
November 10, 2022
ARC review
🏜️🩸🥼⛲️🔬
Synopsis: Ellis has always known that secrecy is the only safe option. Her family is gifted with incredible power, but they have been decimated. Her sisters are dead or missing and she is held captive in a laboratory, subjected to experimentation by corrupted government forces, hoping to exploit a power that they could never understand.
She is desperate for rescue, and when Special Agent Jackson Hunter helps her escape, she longs for a chance to get back to normal life.
Unfortunately, normal is never in the cards for Alternates like her. The government she escaped is the least of her worries, and the powerful Summum Malum cult is lurking, waiting to finish what they started when they tore her away from her family.
Trust is a luxury and Agent Hunter has some secrets of his own.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review:
This is a thrilling continuation of the world we were introduced to in Touch, and somehow, the sequel made me appreciate the first book even more. This book really dives in to the background and details of this complex story, and explains a lot of the uncertainty that was left over from the first book.
I love Ellis and Jackson, and I was so engrossed in their story, I couldn’t put it down.
It has been awhile since I read a book that made my heart drop into my stomach like this one did. I was absolutely shocked by some of the twists, and to be honest I’m still reeling!
I am amazed at how well Kahn manipulates her readers emotions. In the first book, told from Cassie’s perspective, I could feel her confusion and frustration as I read. In this book, I felt Ellis’s hope and desperation and longing. When she felt hopeless, it felt like my feet were pulled out from under me!
I loved this story, and all it’s complexity! Be warned, it is not for the squeamish reader, and things get a bit bloody 😱
🏜️🩸🥼⛲️🔬
Synopsis: Ellis has always known that secrecy is the only safe option. Her family is gifted with incredible power, but they have been decimated. Her sisters are dead or missing and she is held captive in a laboratory, subjected to experimentation by corrupted government forces, hoping to exploit a power that they could never understand.
She is desperate for rescue, and when Special Agent Jackson Hunter helps her escape, she longs for a chance to get back to normal life.
Unfortunately, normal is never in the cards for Alternates like her. The government she escaped is the least of her worries, and the powerful Summum Malum cult is lurking, waiting to finish what they started when they tore her away from her family.
Trust is a luxury and Agent Hunter has some secrets of his own.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review:
This is a thrilling continuation of the world we were introduced to in Touch, and somehow, the sequel made me appreciate the first book even more. This book really dives in to the background and details of this complex story, and explains a lot of the uncertainty that was left over from the first book.
I love Ellis and Jackson, and I was so engrossed in their story, I couldn’t put it down.
It has been awhile since I read a book that made my heart drop into my stomach like this one did. I was absolutely shocked by some of the twists, and to be honest I’m still reeling!
I am amazed at how well Kahn manipulates her readers emotions. In the first book, told from Cassie’s perspective, I could feel her confusion and frustration as I read. In this book, I felt Ellis’s hope and desperation and longing. When she felt hopeless, it felt like my feet were pulled out from under me!
I loved this story, and all it’s complexity! Be warned, it is not for the squeamish reader, and things get a bit bloody 😱
October 14, 2022
This is the second book in the Five Senses Series and I just adored it! Maybe even more than Touch. Great action. Great pacing. A fantastic support cast of characters and an emotional romance as well! Anxiously awaiting the rest of the series!
November 11, 2022
This book is great a wonderful series to look into if you enjoy young adult fantasy.I read as a stand alone so I need to read the first book but can be read as a stand alone since it is a new set of characters not much backstory needed but I have seen there is a link. I am excited for the next in the series . The main characters & supporting characters are well written can imagine them perfectly and they are super interesting . The story line keeps you interested ,full of adventure , just such an intriguing story. If you enjoy stories like the Hunger games & Divergent you won’t be disappointed when you pick up this series for your next read.
January 28, 2023
4.5/5
This book was phenomenal!
No one hurts my girl.
I'd like to start with thanks to the author for sending me her book and an apology for taking so much time to read it (work can get overwhelming at times XD).
Secondly, just wanted to introduce the review by saying it's the second book of the series and it's even better than the first! From the beginning until the end, I was kept craving for more, with difficulties to stop and the next book will be extraordinary, I can feel it!
Now, the review >
Take me with you? [...] Always.
Taste is a novel based on Ellis, a girl with special powers that she is yet to uncover its full length. Kidnapped by the government and brought to a facility to go through tests, she loses her identity, she is poked at, examined, she suffers, loses her dignity and any hope.
But then, one day, someone puts fire to her building. Chaos. People run everywhere, orders are shouted, and a soldier comes to Ellis's rescue. It doesn't stop there: she goes to her uncle, also locked in and escapes.
From there, she'll befriend a bobcat, try and survive by drinking blood, and hide from the military. People come into her life, she encounters danger and the forces against her and her heritage grow. It is now essential for her to find her destiny. Battles, powers, friends and enemies, will Ellis make it and will everyone come out unscathed?
My uncle raised me to appreciate any abilities I'm bestowed. They're special, not bad. It's how you use them that makes a difference.
→ Did I like the book? Why?
This novel was full of plot twists, new characters, great tropes and quotes: I loved it!
The first book in the series introduced us to Cassie, and we now discover her sister, so different yet so similar and I love both of them so much. We also get to witness her massive evolution and it's great to be able to accompany a character you love through such changes.
The first page plunged us into the book's universe. And never once was it boring. Scenes were long and descriptive at times, fast-paced and gripping at others, always the right choice that fit the moment.
This book was amazing and I really recommend it to anyone!
→ I talked about tropes, here are some:
Good vs. Evil
Escaping
One bed trope
Elemental powers
Enemies to lovers
Betrayal
Out of the ordinary (ex: drinks blood)
Shapeshifters
Telekinesis
'I did it for my family'
and so much more!
→ I said I loved the book but at the same time, it took me 2 months to read it. Why?
New school year means new grade and the amount of work I have this year is huge. I have so much more than last year and don't find the time to read. In addition that, I have tons of school books to read all the time which means I usually have two to read at the same time. So, Taste unfortunately couldn't be a priority. That's the only reason why to be quite honest. But, having finished it, it kind of got me out of the reading slump school had got me in and I'm now determined to find time to read my books too. I'm so grateful to that book for that!
→ Conclusion?
Overall, this book is amazing and you should read it. Firstly, it has so many great tropes and you won't ever get bored! Secondly, it's a five books series so you'll have more coming! Thirdly, you're supporting a new and independent author! All good reasons ;)
That's it for me! Thank you for reading!
This book was phenomenal!
No one hurts my girl.
I'd like to start with thanks to the author for sending me her book and an apology for taking so much time to read it (work can get overwhelming at times XD).
Secondly, just wanted to introduce the review by saying it's the second book of the series and it's even better than the first! From the beginning until the end, I was kept craving for more, with difficulties to stop and the next book will be extraordinary, I can feel it!
Now, the review >
Take me with you? [...] Always.
Taste is a novel based on Ellis, a girl with special powers that she is yet to uncover its full length. Kidnapped by the government and brought to a facility to go through tests, she loses her identity, she is poked at, examined, she suffers, loses her dignity and any hope.
But then, one day, someone puts fire to her building. Chaos. People run everywhere, orders are shouted, and a soldier comes to Ellis's rescue. It doesn't stop there: she goes to her uncle, also locked in and escapes.
From there, she'll befriend a bobcat, try and survive by drinking blood, and hide from the military. People come into her life, she encounters danger and the forces against her and her heritage grow. It is now essential for her to find her destiny. Battles, powers, friends and enemies, will Ellis make it and will everyone come out unscathed?
My uncle raised me to appreciate any abilities I'm bestowed. They're special, not bad. It's how you use them that makes a difference.
→ Did I like the book? Why?
This novel was full of plot twists, new characters, great tropes and quotes: I loved it!
The first book in the series introduced us to Cassie, and we now discover her sister, so different yet so similar and I love both of them so much. We also get to witness her massive evolution and it's great to be able to accompany a character you love through such changes.
The first page plunged us into the book's universe. And never once was it boring. Scenes were long and descriptive at times, fast-paced and gripping at others, always the right choice that fit the moment.
This book was amazing and I really recommend it to anyone!
→ I talked about tropes, here are some:
Good vs. Evil
Escaping
One bed trope
Elemental powers
Enemies to lovers
Betrayal
Out of the ordinary (ex: drinks blood)
Shapeshifters
Telekinesis
'I did it for my family'
and so much more!
→ I said I loved the book but at the same time, it took me 2 months to read it. Why?
New school year means new grade and the amount of work I have this year is huge. I have so much more than last year and don't find the time to read. In addition that, I have tons of school books to read all the time which means I usually have two to read at the same time. So, Taste unfortunately couldn't be a priority. That's the only reason why to be quite honest. But, having finished it, it kind of got me out of the reading slump school had got me in and I'm now determined to find time to read my books too. I'm so grateful to that book for that!
→ Conclusion?
Overall, this book is amazing and you should read it. Firstly, it has so many great tropes and you won't ever get bored! Secondly, it's a five books series so you'll have more coming! Thirdly, you're supporting a new and independent author! All good reasons ;)
That's it for me! Thank you for reading!
September 10, 2022
This book was just as amazing as the first one in the series! I received an advanced reader copy of Taste, as well as the first book in the series (Touch), and both books are among my favorite YA fantasy books out there. They are filled with adventure, engaging characters, and a fantastic plot that is bound to keep the reader intrigued throughout the book and beyond. I highly recommend these books to anyone looking for a great read similar to the Hunger Games or the Divergent series. Happy reading!
October 14, 2022
I love when the an author builds a series with a different character focus and pov making each volume read like a standalone but part of a great world-building.
In Taste, we follow Ellis (who is the sister of Cyndra from book 1).
The author presented Elli to us through a very sensory kind of writing in the beginning that made us feel as the character felt: lost and claustrophobic but at the same time aware of so much happening around her. We break free from the facility and Ellis guides us into a fast pace journey searching for safety, the artifact, and familiar faces.
I love Ellis's relationship with her traveler companion and the bobcat that got attached to her.
The author always gives a great twist to classic points of view refreshing and redefining our perspective on the senses like "taste" or even "mermaids".
In Taste, we follow Ellis (who is the sister of Cyndra from book 1).
The author presented Elli to us through a very sensory kind of writing in the beginning that made us feel as the character felt: lost and claustrophobic but at the same time aware of so much happening around her. We break free from the facility and Ellis guides us into a fast pace journey searching for safety, the artifact, and familiar faces.
I love Ellis's relationship with her traveler companion and the bobcat that got attached to her.
The author always gives a great twist to classic points of view refreshing and redefining our perspective on the senses like "taste" or even "mermaids".
October 8, 2022
Ellis has spent some time as a lab rat for this quasi-government institution somewhere in the desert. She escapes, with help form an unexpected person and tries to get to her uncle's safe house. She needs to find her artifact, so that she can commune with it and gain the powers she is supposed to gain. Along the way she makes new allies, but is betrayed by a trusted one and finds herself back in the lab. However, this time she is not alone. I am so enjoying this series, with each book written from the point of view of one of the five sisters.
December 2, 2024
This is book two of the Five Senses series and the main character is Ellis Zephyrus aka Charlie, who was kidnapped from the safe house where she had lived with two of her sisters and the man she called Uncle Alec and his son Vin, and is now being held in a secret government lab, where she has been tortured, left in sensory deprivation and is slowly starving to death. Uncle Alec rescued Ellis and her sisters after her family home was attacked and her parents and two younger sisters died. Uncle Alec helped them learn about their ‘alt’ life, as alternates, those with unusual ancient powers and the sisters links to ancient relics that would help save their world from the Summum Malum. These dark creatures can only break through the veil into her world as shadows, for the moment, but they seem to be gaining power and abilities as time goes on. Uncle Alec had warned them of an alternate race after the relics, like Ellis’ water relic, which she needs to locate. The lab keeps experimenting on Ellis, who they have named Charlie, her being the third prisoner they have been working on. The head scientist seems to think she has more powers than she does. Her oldest sister Lana (Alannah) grew up with her powers early on and had visions of their futures and how they might die. Eventually she died and is in the afterlife, as are all souls, since the path to their final resting place has been blocked for ages, by the Summum Malum who are gaining more powers by eating souls and could become unstoppable and destroy all beings in this world. Ellis is now in a water tank, submerged and held down by some sort of netting, with a mask to allow her to breathe. She shouldn’t be able to hear anything, but suddenly she can! She can make out voices of people outside of her room and even further away, discussing her and also of another prisoner for their Psy-Ops experiments, Delta, who apparently has mind control capabilities, which leads her to think it could be Alec or Vin.
Ellis is not actually related to Alec or Vin, but it seems the government who run this lab thinks she is and have tried to force her to show what she can do. But all she had up until today, was an ultra-heightened sense of taste and the ability to survive on very little food! Suddenly an alarm goes off far away in the compound, which has the guards running, as the power is cut. One guard, Jackson Hunter, is one she overhears and who seems not to like what they are doing to her. One man says he will get Charlie, i.e. Ellis, and someone else goes to secure Delta. Jackson mentions a fire and also a bear, which comes into the story later. A metallic bang has the lid of her tank opened and a shadowy figure comes into view. They grab her mask and pull it off her face, saying she won’t need it anymore! They leave her to drown, and she finally has to swallow water, like she did at the bottom of the pool years ago, which allows her hearing to expand once again and she hears more about what is happening and of a female walking through the fire, like her sister Cyn, who she thought must have been long dead as she hadn’t come for her. Jackson however, does come for her and cuts the netting, before pulling her almost naked body from the tank. He is missing two fingers on both his hands, and she wonders if he is an alternate, but he is a soldier, so it seems unlikely. He and his boss seem to be more sympathetic to those being held in this hidden establishment, but nothing is quite what it seems. Someone tried to kill her before Jackson reached her and without her water abilities, she would have died before he could get to her, abilities she hadn’t realised she had! She has been locked up for so long, she never came into her abilities like her sister Lana had.
The fire allows her to escape, but first she tries to reach Delta, thinking it could be her Uncle Alec or his son Vin. It turns it to be Uncle Alec, but he is in bad shape and wants her to leave him behind and save herself! He tells her she needs to get her guidestone and has to get out of there, he is only strong enough to help her get past Agent Reyes, the one who makes fun of Agent Hunter and was the one who tried to kill her. Alec gives her coordinates of a safehouse she needs to reach and also details of a friend nearby who can help her. He uses his ability to force her to leave him behind and she is left all alone to traverse the hills and desolate grounds by Area 51, to reach his friend. She has only the clothing and boots she took, none of which fit her withered frame, but she needs to keep walking and get far enough away from the site, before the guards realise she is gone. As she stumbles along in the dark, a sound catches her attention, and she sees a bobcat approaching her with a bloody rabbit in its jaws. The bobcat doesn’t seem to be scared of her, nor her attempts to get it to leave her alone, dropping the rabbit in front of her and even pushing it towards her! Somehow, the bobcat has brought her just what she needed and seems to understand everything she is saying to it. It won’t leave her alone and even keeps her warm behind some rocks, as she finally falls asleep through sheer exhaustion. It warns her of someone approaching, which turns out to be Special Agent Jackson Hunter, who has somehow managed to track her in the dark. A special innate ability of his apparently. He has come to help her get away, hating what was done to her. She isn’t sure yet, that she can trust him, but she is too weak to argue unfortunately. He has his own reasons for doing what he has, with a boss he really looks up to and is reporting back to without her knowledge.
Jackson sticks with her, along with the bobcat, as he steals cars for them to travel further and find her guidestone, then follow its hints to where her water relic must be. But someone else has gotten there before them and is a danger they will continue to face as they obtain her relic stone, with the assistance of the only survivors of the village. Jackosn is playing his own agenda, in secret from Ellis, following the orders of a man he believes to be someone he can trust and who gave him a chance and a life, when no one else would. His boss knows more about alternates and the Summum Malum than he has told Jackson and will not be her ally at all. Jackson won’t believe her doubts about his boss, and he will end up betraying her, before saving her once again. Decisions are difficult for them both during this time, as neither have had a normal life, but Ellis has a lot of shocks and surprises to come as new allies and enemies come to the fore. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout, and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
Ellis is not actually related to Alec or Vin, but it seems the government who run this lab thinks she is and have tried to force her to show what she can do. But all she had up until today, was an ultra-heightened sense of taste and the ability to survive on very little food! Suddenly an alarm goes off far away in the compound, which has the guards running, as the power is cut. One guard, Jackson Hunter, is one she overhears and who seems not to like what they are doing to her. One man says he will get Charlie, i.e. Ellis, and someone else goes to secure Delta. Jackson mentions a fire and also a bear, which comes into the story later. A metallic bang has the lid of her tank opened and a shadowy figure comes into view. They grab her mask and pull it off her face, saying she won’t need it anymore! They leave her to drown, and she finally has to swallow water, like she did at the bottom of the pool years ago, which allows her hearing to expand once again and she hears more about what is happening and of a female walking through the fire, like her sister Cyn, who she thought must have been long dead as she hadn’t come for her. Jackson however, does come for her and cuts the netting, before pulling her almost naked body from the tank. He is missing two fingers on both his hands, and she wonders if he is an alternate, but he is a soldier, so it seems unlikely. He and his boss seem to be more sympathetic to those being held in this hidden establishment, but nothing is quite what it seems. Someone tried to kill her before Jackson reached her and without her water abilities, she would have died before he could get to her, abilities she hadn’t realised she had! She has been locked up for so long, she never came into her abilities like her sister Lana had.
The fire allows her to escape, but first she tries to reach Delta, thinking it could be her Uncle Alec or his son Vin. It turns it to be Uncle Alec, but he is in bad shape and wants her to leave him behind and save herself! He tells her she needs to get her guidestone and has to get out of there, he is only strong enough to help her get past Agent Reyes, the one who makes fun of Agent Hunter and was the one who tried to kill her. Alec gives her coordinates of a safehouse she needs to reach and also details of a friend nearby who can help her. He uses his ability to force her to leave him behind and she is left all alone to traverse the hills and desolate grounds by Area 51, to reach his friend. She has only the clothing and boots she took, none of which fit her withered frame, but she needs to keep walking and get far enough away from the site, before the guards realise she is gone. As she stumbles along in the dark, a sound catches her attention, and she sees a bobcat approaching her with a bloody rabbit in its jaws. The bobcat doesn’t seem to be scared of her, nor her attempts to get it to leave her alone, dropping the rabbit in front of her and even pushing it towards her! Somehow, the bobcat has brought her just what she needed and seems to understand everything she is saying to it. It won’t leave her alone and even keeps her warm behind some rocks, as she finally falls asleep through sheer exhaustion. It warns her of someone approaching, which turns out to be Special Agent Jackson Hunter, who has somehow managed to track her in the dark. A special innate ability of his apparently. He has come to help her get away, hating what was done to her. She isn’t sure yet, that she can trust him, but she is too weak to argue unfortunately. He has his own reasons for doing what he has, with a boss he really looks up to and is reporting back to without her knowledge.
Jackson sticks with her, along with the bobcat, as he steals cars for them to travel further and find her guidestone, then follow its hints to where her water relic must be. But someone else has gotten there before them and is a danger they will continue to face as they obtain her relic stone, with the assistance of the only survivors of the village. Jackosn is playing his own agenda, in secret from Ellis, following the orders of a man he believes to be someone he can trust and who gave him a chance and a life, when no one else would. His boss knows more about alternates and the Summum Malum than he has told Jackson and will not be her ally at all. Jackson won’t believe her doubts about his boss, and he will end up betraying her, before saving her once again. Decisions are difficult for them both during this time, as neither have had a normal life, but Ellis has a lot of shocks and surprises to come as new allies and enemies come to the fore. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout, and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
September 22, 2022
I purchased the first book in this series and was honored to receive an advanced reader copy of the second. I loved Touch and think Taste is even better! The story is fast paced, the characters are vivid and so well defined. A lot of action and a good amount of romance.
The soldier, Jackson, is just irresistible...
Kitkat, the bobcat, was also perfect, adding humor and such a nice dimension (reminded me how well the author handled Zoe, the dog, in the first book).
Ellis' POV was so fresh. She's in a really tough spot at the beginning of the book, it is very intense. Her determination and inner strength shine through and through her eyes, we feel like we know Cassie/Cyndra, her sister from the first book even better. And Ellis and Jackson... I don't want to give anything away, but you have to read Taste just to find out all the perfect twists and turns to their enemies-to-lovers like romance. Enjoy!
The soldier, Jackson, is just irresistible...
Kitkat, the bobcat, was also perfect, adding humor and such a nice dimension (reminded me how well the author handled Zoe, the dog, in the first book).
Ellis' POV was so fresh. She's in a really tough spot at the beginning of the book, it is very intense. Her determination and inner strength shine through and through her eyes, we feel like we know Cassie/Cyndra, her sister from the first book even better. And Ellis and Jackson... I don't want to give anything away, but you have to read Taste just to find out all the perfect twists and turns to their enemies-to-lovers like romance. Enjoy!
November 14, 2022
Taste by Cheryl Kahn is the second book in the Five Senses series. Book two continues the story from book one, Touch, but is from the point of view of Ellis, one of the five sisters the storyline is about.
In Taste, Ellis escapes a government facility that has held her hostage. They were running tests on her and people like her (people with "special" abilities). She tries to reconnect with her family after leaving the facility, and along the way makes some very interesting and loving friends.
This is an action-packed adventure series you do not want to miss out on. Definitely check it out!
In Taste, Ellis escapes a government facility that has held her hostage. They were running tests on her and people like her (people with "special" abilities). She tries to reconnect with her family after leaving the facility, and along the way makes some very interesting and loving friends.
This is an action-packed adventure series you do not want to miss out on. Definitely check it out!
July 3, 2023
This was not at all what I was expecting the sequel to Touch to be, but I wasn’t disappointed in the least. Focusing more on a new set of characters, the author did a fantastic job detailing a world of war, violence and even romance. I like how she incorporates the senses into her world of magic, and the story ties into the sisters and their gifts. Although I read both books back to back, this can be read as a stand alone. A unique and action packed read, I highly suggest getting these books!
November 12, 2022
I would like to again thank Cheryl Kahn for sharing an advanced copy of Taste with me in exchange for an honest review.
Overall, I loved it. This was a solid 4 star read for me, and I felt it was a fantastic follow-up to her novel Touch. Plot and character spoilers coming…
I got off to a much slower start with this one, and I think that was in large part because I recently read Touch. While I enjoyed the sole focus on Ellis, Jackson and their escape, it was a very isolating start when all I wanted was to know if Cyndra and Gabriel had found her at the lab, and subsequently set the fire that allowed her to escape. It also broke my heart page after page knowing that Vin was dead, so there was no way Ellis was going to find him.
Had I read this as a standalone, I think I would have enjoyed this initial pacing much more – that said, absolutely no fault of the author, this was me being impatient.
Either I’m not as good at spotting twists as I think I am, or Kahn is just incredible at pulling them off. Either way I’m both annoyed with myself that I didn’t see Jackson’s phone call coming, but also glad I got to have that “oh shhhh” moment.
I found Taste to be much darker than Touch. The scenes that played out, what Ellis went through, etc. felt way heavier and more intense than what went down in this series’ first installment. Many of the fight scenes were much more graphic, but not overwhelmingly so in the sense that the intensity contributed to the plot rather than existed for shock value.
While I struggled a bit with the beginning, I read the second half of this book in one sitting. Just absolutely devoured it. I can’t wait to see where these characters go throughout this series.
Overall, I loved it. This was a solid 4 star read for me, and I felt it was a fantastic follow-up to her novel Touch. Plot and character spoilers coming…
I got off to a much slower start with this one, and I think that was in large part because I recently read Touch. While I enjoyed the sole focus on Ellis, Jackson and their escape, it was a very isolating start when all I wanted was to know if Cyndra and Gabriel had found her at the lab, and subsequently set the fire that allowed her to escape. It also broke my heart page after page knowing that Vin was dead, so there was no way Ellis was going to find him.
Had I read this as a standalone, I think I would have enjoyed this initial pacing much more – that said, absolutely no fault of the author, this was me being impatient.
Either I’m not as good at spotting twists as I think I am, or Kahn is just incredible at pulling them off. Either way I’m both annoyed with myself that I didn’t see Jackson’s phone call coming, but also glad I got to have that “oh shhhh” moment.
I found Taste to be much darker than Touch. The scenes that played out, what Ellis went through, etc. felt way heavier and more intense than what went down in this series’ first installment. Many of the fight scenes were much more graphic, but not overwhelmingly so in the sense that the intensity contributed to the plot rather than existed for shock value.
While I struggled a bit with the beginning, I read the second half of this book in one sitting. Just absolutely devoured it. I can’t wait to see where these characters go throughout this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 16, 2024
Cheryl Kahn’s “Taste” is the second book in her Five Senses series, and I thought it was such an interesting read! The main POV character was Ellis, a teenage girl who has special and unique abilities.
I thought Ellis was a really great heroine because she had a backbone. She was willing to fight for what was right, what she believed in, and the people she cared about, which I respected her for.
This book was also very intense, but that just made it an even better read! Ellis has a lot of trauma, but she does manage to start healing over the course of the novel, and her character development was really well done.
There were also a lot of other characters in this book, but they were all necessary to the plot. This series captured my attention from the very first chapter in book one, and it has continued to hold my attention because of its unique storyline.
I would definitely recommend reading the first book in this series, “Touch,” before starting this one. I think doing that will make your reading experience that much more enjoyable, especially since “Taste” furthers the plot that started in book one. I can’t wait to read book three!
I thought Ellis was a really great heroine because she had a backbone. She was willing to fight for what was right, what she believed in, and the people she cared about, which I respected her for.
This book was also very intense, but that just made it an even better read! Ellis has a lot of trauma, but she does manage to start healing over the course of the novel, and her character development was really well done.
There were also a lot of other characters in this book, but they were all necessary to the plot. This series captured my attention from the very first chapter in book one, and it has continued to hold my attention because of its unique storyline.
I would definitely recommend reading the first book in this series, “Touch,” before starting this one. I think doing that will make your reading experience that much more enjoyable, especially since “Taste” furthers the plot that started in book one. I can’t wait to read book three!
October 20, 2022
Kahn has done it again!
This spellbinding sequel to Touch is amazingly penned. Her characters are three-dimensional. Their motives are realistic, and their flaws are human. I LOVED Kit-Kat and Jax!
There were places in this book where I wanted to cry for the characters and where I wanted to punch others. Kahn has a way of bringing your emotions rushing to the surface, and the protective mother-bear instinct in me was ready to protect these characters.
I loved the settings and the well-thought-out plot.
Can I have the next book now?
This spellbinding sequel to Touch is amazingly penned. Her characters are three-dimensional. Their motives are realistic, and their flaws are human. I LOVED Kit-Kat and Jax!
There were places in this book where I wanted to cry for the characters and where I wanted to punch others. Kahn has a way of bringing your emotions rushing to the surface, and the protective mother-bear instinct in me was ready to protect these characters.
I loved the settings and the well-thought-out plot.
Can I have the next book now?
October 11, 2022
In Taste we follow Ellis. She is being held against her will in a government facility, because of her special ability.
After an attack on her house they have captured her. And ever since they are running tests.
At one point Ellis escapes and goes on a quest for the water relic. But who can be trusted? And where is the relic?
After an attack on her house they have captured her. And ever since they are running tests.
At one point Ellis escapes and goes on a quest for the water relic. But who can be trusted? And where is the relic?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 24, 2024
This was super fun too! I have adored these books by Kahn. I have now read Touch, Ky Katana, and Taste. All three were amazing. What makes me love them so much has been how unique these stories are. They may remind me of some elements of my favorite series (which is why I was drawn to them), but each book is their own special thing. I have been needing that for the longest time. Something new and unique.
Her prose is amazing and you can understand it. It doesn’t hurt your brain trying to understand the world building. Also, her characters! Kahn’s characters are the absolute best. Even the villains are characters that you love to hate.
Taste has such wonderful elements to it that will keep the reader engaged and you will want to solve the thrill and mystery. Kahn isn’t also afraid to make hard choices for our characters. However, that’s what makes a book for me. I want to feel the raw emotions of our characters because you can relate to them. Also, I believe that it enhances the experience. There were many twists and turns in the story that kept me second guessing myself, but I loved every minute of it. I’m so ready for the next book!
Her prose is amazing and you can understand it. It doesn’t hurt your brain trying to understand the world building. Also, her characters! Kahn’s characters are the absolute best. Even the villains are characters that you love to hate.
Taste has such wonderful elements to it that will keep the reader engaged and you will want to solve the thrill and mystery. Kahn isn’t also afraid to make hard choices for our characters. However, that’s what makes a book for me. I want to feel the raw emotions of our characters because you can relate to them. Also, I believe that it enhances the experience. There were many twists and turns in the story that kept me second guessing myself, but I loved every minute of it. I’m so ready for the next book!
November 30, 2022
You need to read this series!
After reading the first book "Touch"I was hooked, but now..I'M ADDICTED! Book 2 is filled with everything that I needed; action, romance, plot twists, bad a$$ females, found family etc.
I love the relationships in this series, they're banter is just the funniest, cutest thing ever. In the first book you follow Cassie as she discovered her power and found herself, but in this one you follow Ellis who is a relation to Cassie. They both have very different powers and start out struggling with who they are. But as the story progresses, they are truly a force to be reckoned with! I don't want to give too much away so I won't go into more detail, but I seriously can't wait to read the rest of the books. I will be anxiously waiting!
After reading the first book "Touch"I was hooked, but now..I'M ADDICTED! Book 2 is filled with everything that I needed; action, romance, plot twists, bad a$$ females, found family etc.
I love the relationships in this series, they're banter is just the funniest, cutest thing ever. In the first book you follow Cassie as she discovered her power and found herself, but in this one you follow Ellis who is a relation to Cassie. They both have very different powers and start out struggling with who they are. But as the story progresses, they are truly a force to be reckoned with! I don't want to give too much away so I won't go into more detail, but I seriously can't wait to read the rest of the books. I will be anxiously waiting!
September 18, 2024
If you enjoy dystopian style fantasy stories, I can't recommend reading Cheryl's books enough! Touch was probably my favorite read of the last 2 yrs. Taste follows that story with a mostly new cast & storyline but during the story it links to many characters & themes of the original book, mostly in the last third of the book.
This story follows similar vibes of Cheryl's other books in some ways, it can feel like an abrupt disorienting introduction to the characters & story as you feel instantly dropped into an already in motion world & you have to play catch up to figure out who everyone is & who you can trust. The main character is Ellis, a young girl who has been kept captive & experimented on due to the special gifts her family has. She's trying to escape the military & doctors who've kept her, while trying to rescue & reunite with her other family. Along her journey she's primarily aided by Jackson, who was one of the military guards, & a bobcat named KitKat she meets along the way.
The story is filled with lots of suspense, mystery, adventure, & romantic tension. It pulls on your heartstrings throughout with the emotional highs & lows of a young girl who has lost her identity & everything she holds dear to her. We see the struggle of Ellis, as she tries to love & believe in herself & has to learn who she can & cannot trust along the way. Her epic journey will show she has far greater power than she could ever imagine her frail frame could possess. You'll be kept on the edge of your seat guessing at what will happen next & the bond between Ellis & KitKat is just amazing for animal lovers.
This book is an excellent addition to the series & I can't wait to read book 3 Scent. Cheryl, please keep writing these wonderful character driven stories with such detailed supernatural themes. I can't get enough of your books!
This story follows similar vibes of Cheryl's other books in some ways, it can feel like an abrupt disorienting introduction to the characters & story as you feel instantly dropped into an already in motion world & you have to play catch up to figure out who everyone is & who you can trust. The main character is Ellis, a young girl who has been kept captive & experimented on due to the special gifts her family has. She's trying to escape the military & doctors who've kept her, while trying to rescue & reunite with her other family. Along her journey she's primarily aided by Jackson, who was one of the military guards, & a bobcat named KitKat she meets along the way.
The story is filled with lots of suspense, mystery, adventure, & romantic tension. It pulls on your heartstrings throughout with the emotional highs & lows of a young girl who has lost her identity & everything she holds dear to her. We see the struggle of Ellis, as she tries to love & believe in herself & has to learn who she can & cannot trust along the way. Her epic journey will show she has far greater power than she could ever imagine her frail frame could possess. You'll be kept on the edge of your seat guessing at what will happen next & the bond between Ellis & KitKat is just amazing for animal lovers.
This book is an excellent addition to the series & I can't wait to read book 3 Scent. Cheryl, please keep writing these wonderful character driven stories with such detailed supernatural themes. I can't get enough of your books!
February 13, 2024
Taste is the second book in the Five Senses Series that follows Ellis’ journey of self-discovery. This story pulls you in from the first paragraph and leaves you hungry for more. I just couldn’t put it down because I wanted to know what was going on and how it fit together with what I read in the first book Touch.
Ellis, the main female character, was kidnapped from her home and taken to a militarized high security compound. While there, she was tested, probed, and tortured. Without the intervention of Special Agent Jackson, she would have died. Ellis and Jackson form an instant bond from their initial meeting. She felt at ease with him and wanted to trust him. He wanted to protect Ellis, but he also had his own personal conflicts that constantly interfered with their fragile friendship.
After her escape from the facility, Ellis has a hard time dealing with the trauma of being a victim and the loss of her appearance and youthful ideals. She struggles throughout the book to find her own way. To understand that she is no longer a victim but a survivor and to embrace her inner strength while they are on their quest for the water relic. She faces the hard realization that she has to make decisions that won’t always sit well with others. When those decisions are made, they set into motion a series of events that test the relationship between her and Jackson. Her only constant solace in the midst of all the turmoil she faces is the bobcat KitKat that refuses to leave her side and offers comfort and levity in serious situations. We realize quickly that KitKat is not a normal animal and are left guessing what she is the entire book until it is revealed at the end. Very gratifying revelation but I won’t spoil it here.
The growth and self-discovery by both characters was interesting and rewarding to watch unfold. When Jackson and Ellis finally understand one another, their friendship grows to something more beautiful than they could’ve imagined. There are powerful themes of family, friendship, perseverance, romance, conflict, betrayal and self-discovery in this book, which suits young readers and adults alike.
Ellis, the main female character, was kidnapped from her home and taken to a militarized high security compound. While there, she was tested, probed, and tortured. Without the intervention of Special Agent Jackson, she would have died. Ellis and Jackson form an instant bond from their initial meeting. She felt at ease with him and wanted to trust him. He wanted to protect Ellis, but he also had his own personal conflicts that constantly interfered with their fragile friendship.
After her escape from the facility, Ellis has a hard time dealing with the trauma of being a victim and the loss of her appearance and youthful ideals. She struggles throughout the book to find her own way. To understand that she is no longer a victim but a survivor and to embrace her inner strength while they are on their quest for the water relic. She faces the hard realization that she has to make decisions that won’t always sit well with others. When those decisions are made, they set into motion a series of events that test the relationship between her and Jackson. Her only constant solace in the midst of all the turmoil she faces is the bobcat KitKat that refuses to leave her side and offers comfort and levity in serious situations. We realize quickly that KitKat is not a normal animal and are left guessing what she is the entire book until it is revealed at the end. Very gratifying revelation but I won’t spoil it here.
The growth and self-discovery by both characters was interesting and rewarding to watch unfold. When Jackson and Ellis finally understand one another, their friendship grows to something more beautiful than they could’ve imagined. There are powerful themes of family, friendship, perseverance, romance, conflict, betrayal and self-discovery in this book, which suits young readers and adults alike.
November 19, 2022
Taste is the action packed second installment of the Five Senses Series and continues the storyline from book one Touch. Taste follows Ellis, one of the sisters who are the central focal point of this series.
Ellis is a being held captive in a government facility. She is being tested and experimented on to figure out what her special abilities are, as are other people like her including her family members.
I loved Ellis and her character development and growth. She is a badass who was determined to reconnect with her loved ones. I also loved Jackson (even though he makes plenty of mistakes along the way) and Kit Kat! The ending had my heart racing, and I glad to see some familiar faces!
Ellis is a being held captive in a government facility. She is being tested and experimented on to figure out what her special abilities are, as are other people like her including her family members.
I loved Ellis and her character development and growth. She is a badass who was determined to reconnect with her loved ones. I also loved Jackson (even though he makes plenty of mistakes along the way) and Kit Kat! The ending had my heart racing, and I glad to see some familiar faces!
November 16, 2022
While this could be read as a standalone I think the reading experience is better if you read Touch first. I loved the pacing of this sequel. It started out fast paced and stayed that way pretty much the entire time. There wasn’t a big focus on the history of the relics because there was a good amount in the first book. There was a lot of action and twists that had me guessing who to trust. The side characters were well written and I especially loved the connection Ellis made with Kitcat. I liked the relationship that Ellis formed with Jackson, but that is not what pulled me into this story. I love learning about the relics, guidestones, and powers of all the “alternates”. It's not technically a magic system but I find the whole thing interesting. I can’t wait to see how the sister’s stories continue and who we follow next.
Thank you @cherylkahnauthor for the gifted copy.
Thank you @cherylkahnauthor for the gifted copy.
September 22, 2022
I loved Taste! It took a while to understand how the characters from touch are related, but everything was revealed eventually.
The beginning was so hard to read! The details were so vivid, scary and easy to imagine. I am a little claustrophobic so I did not like reading about her being strapped in a dark water tank and the related struggles. Not fun.
I love how the story and characters are revealed through Ellis’ perspective. We already knew some of the players and it was frustrating to wait to find out about the characters from the first book. Fun little twist with Kitcat. I loved her! The story is fun and the action is intense. Many unexpected twists to the story. I love Cheryl's writing style.
The way that we go into Ellis’ thought process as things seem lost, she harnesses determination and inner strength and then finds a way to utilize her powers. I can’t wait for book 3! Keep writing please. 😊
I hope that some day these books can be turned into a movie or mini-series!
The beginning was so hard to read! The details were so vivid, scary and easy to imagine. I am a little claustrophobic so I did not like reading about her being strapped in a dark water tank and the related struggles. Not fun.
I love how the story and characters are revealed through Ellis’ perspective. We already knew some of the players and it was frustrating to wait to find out about the characters from the first book. Fun little twist with Kitcat. I loved her! The story is fun and the action is intense. Many unexpected twists to the story. I love Cheryl's writing style.
The way that we go into Ellis’ thought process as things seem lost, she harnesses determination and inner strength and then finds a way to utilize her powers. I can’t wait for book 3! Keep writing please. 😊
I hope that some day these books can be turned into a movie or mini-series!
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