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Psy-Changeling Trinity #7
Resonance Surge
Where are the broken? That is the propulsive question that unleashes a world of secrets in New York Times bestselling author Nalini Singh’s Resonance Surge . . .
StoneWater bears Pavel and Yakov Stepyrev have been a unit since birth, but now Pavel’s life is veering in a new direction, his heart held in the hands of Arwen Mercant, a Psy empath—and the only man who has ever brought Pavel to his knees.
This is it. A point of irrevocable change. For Pavel . . . for Arwen . . . for Yakov . . . and for another pair of twins whose bond has a far darker history.
A low-Gradient Psy, Theodora Marshall is considered worthless by everyone but her violently powerful twin, Pax. She is the sole person he trusts in their venomous family to investigate a hidden and terrible part of their family history—an unregistered rehabilitation Center established by their grandfather.
Places of unimaginable pain designed to psychically wipe minds, leaving the victims shells of their former selves, the Centers are an ugly vestige of the Psy race’s Silent past. But this Center was worse. Far, far worse. And now Theo must uncover the awful truth—in the company of a scowling bear named Yakov, who isn’t about to take a Marshall at face value . . . especially a Marshall who has turned his dreams into chilling nightmares.
Because Yakov is the great-grandson of a foreseer . . . and he has seen Theo die in an unstoppable surge of blood. Night after night after night . . .
StoneWater bears Pavel and Yakov Stepyrev have been a unit since birth, but now Pavel’s life is veering in a new direction, his heart held in the hands of Arwen Mercant, a Psy empath—and the only man who has ever brought Pavel to his knees.
This is it. A point of irrevocable change. For Pavel . . . for Arwen . . . for Yakov . . . and for another pair of twins whose bond has a far darker history.
A low-Gradient Psy, Theodora Marshall is considered worthless by everyone but her violently powerful twin, Pax. She is the sole person he trusts in their venomous family to investigate a hidden and terrible part of their family history—an unregistered rehabilitation Center established by their grandfather.
Places of unimaginable pain designed to psychically wipe minds, leaving the victims shells of their former selves, the Centers are an ugly vestige of the Psy race’s Silent past. But this Center was worse. Far, far worse. And now Theo must uncover the awful truth—in the company of a scowling bear named Yakov, who isn’t about to take a Marshall at face value . . . especially a Marshall who has turned his dreams into chilling nightmares.
Because Yakov is the great-grandson of a foreseer . . . and he has seen Theo die in an unstoppable surge of blood. Night after night after night . . .
384 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 18, 2023
730 people are currently reading
2464 people want to read
About the author
Nalini Singh
248 books26.7k followersI've been writing as long as I can remember and all of my stories always held a thread of romance (even when I was writing about a prince who could shoot lasers out of his eyes). I love creating unique characters, love giving them happy endings and I even love the voices in my head. There's no other job I would rather be doing. In September 2002, when I got the call that Silhouette Desire wanted to buy my first book, Desert Warrior, it was a dream come true. I hope to continue living the dream until I keel over of old age on my keyboard.
I was born in Fiji and raised in New Zealand. I also spent three years living and working in Japan, during which time I took the chance to travel around Asia. I’m back in New Zealand now, but I’m always plotting new trips. If you’d like to see some of my travel snapshots, have a look at the Travel Diary page (updated every month).
So far, I've worked as a lawyer, a librarian, a candy factory general hand, a bank temp and an English teacher and not necessarily in that order. Some might call that inconsistency but I call it grist for the writer's mill.
I was born in Fiji and raised in New Zealand. I also spent three years living and working in Japan, during which time I took the chance to travel around Asia. I’m back in New Zealand now, but I’m always plotting new trips. If you’d like to see some of my travel snapshots, have a look at the Travel Diary page (updated every month).
So far, I've worked as a lawyer, a librarian, a candy factory general hand, a bank temp and an English teacher and not necessarily in that order. Some might call that inconsistency but I call it grist for the writer's mill.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 645 reviews
January 2, 2025
I can’t seem to stop reading this series, even though it’s lost much of its original appeal.
I’m still a big fan of the author’s earlier work, especially the beginnings of the Changeling and Guild Hunter series. But, like a long-running TV show, sometimes a series should wrap up while it’s still at its peak.
I’ve always loved bear shifters—one of my favorite paranormal books is Bear Meets Girl —but Singh’s bears just don’t do it for me. It’s disappointing because bears are such fascinating creatures, and I had high hopes for them.
Resonance Surge felt low on action, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. It also featured two couples—a main pair and an m/m romance involving the twin brother’s love interest—again, not a bad thing. But unfortunately, neither relationship really resonated with me, and I struggled to connect with the story overall. By the end, I wasn’t sure how much of it I’d actually retain.
Another challenge is the sheer number of characters across multiple families and packs. It’s becoming increasingly hard to keep track of them all. The characters from the new Trinity series haven’t left much of an impression on me so far, which is in stark contrast to the original Snow Dancer and Dark River packs. Those characters were so memorable that I still think of them fondly and even revisit their books.
As much as I can’t seem to stop reading Singh’s books, they’ve sadly lost their sparkle for me. I’m holding out hope for something fresh and exciting to reignite that old magic.
___________________________________
I received a copy of this book from the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review. My opinions have not been influenced by the publisher or the author.
I’m still a big fan of the author’s earlier work, especially the beginnings of the Changeling and Guild Hunter series. But, like a long-running TV show, sometimes a series should wrap up while it’s still at its peak.
I’ve always loved bear shifters—one of my favorite paranormal books is Bear Meets Girl —but Singh’s bears just don’t do it for me. It’s disappointing because bears are such fascinating creatures, and I had high hopes for them.
Resonance Surge felt low on action, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. It also featured two couples—a main pair and an m/m romance involving the twin brother’s love interest—again, not a bad thing. But unfortunately, neither relationship really resonated with me, and I struggled to connect with the story overall. By the end, I wasn’t sure how much of it I’d actually retain.
Another challenge is the sheer number of characters across multiple families and packs. It’s becoming increasingly hard to keep track of them all. The characters from the new Trinity series haven’t left much of an impression on me so far, which is in stark contrast to the original Snow Dancer and Dark River packs. Those characters were so memorable that I still think of them fondly and even revisit their books.
As much as I can’t seem to stop reading Singh’s books, they’ve sadly lost their sparkle for me. I’m holding out hope for something fresh and exciting to reignite that old magic.
___________________________________
I received a copy of this book from the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review. My opinions have not been influenced by the publisher or the author.
April 16, 2023
Somewhere between 3.5 and 4 stars - This was a very relationship forward book, and considering we're back with the bears and that the side romance was Pavel & Arwen, I have no complaints on that score! I really enjoyed the slow build of tension between Yasha & Theo, and also finding out more about the Marshall family & how they factor into the politics. That said, coming down from the high of macro=plot in the last book, I was bummed we didn't have more about the Island, the Psy-Net situation, etc. There were a lot of little seeds, but I wish we'd had more of it. Still, I am satisfied with my yearly P-C fix and I cannot wait to find out more about WTF is going on
![Profile Image for Namera [The Literary Invertebrate].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1647896333i%2F31792110._UX200_CR0%2C96%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
did-not-finish
July 30, 2023
: Update:
The book has been published and still feeling absolutely no urge to read this... I'll keep it on my TBR for now though, because who knows.
_
I've been rereading some of the earlier Psy-Changeling books lately, and I'm struck by just how badly Singh has veered away from her original characters.
There are SO MANY people I'm dying to see books for - Miane, Kit, Kieran, Beatrice, Tomas, Matthias, Pax, Amara, Alice, the other Smith brothers - and we keep getting more guff about people I've never met and don't care about. This is on my TBR as a matter of habit but I've since discovered that it's about a bear changeling, and those definitely fall into the category of 'characters I'm meh about'...
_
I've been rereading some of the earlier Psy-Changeling books lately, and I'm struck by just how badly Singh has veered away from her original characters.
There are SO MANY people I'm dying to see books for - Miane, Kit, Kieran, Beatrice, Tomas, Matthias, Pax, Amara, Alice, the other Smith brothers - and we keep getting more guff about people I've never met and don't care about. This is on my TBR as a matter of habit but I've since discovered that it's about a bear changeling, and those definitely fall into the category of 'characters I'm meh about'...
August 2, 2023
4 stars
My full length review with Jennie from July 24 can be found at DA, here:
https://dearauthor.com/book-reviews/r...
June 22, 2023 - finished!
What I liked (a lot):
Theo
Yakov (Yasha)
Romance front and center
Enough Arwen to satisfy me
Pax
creepy mystery
Nightclub scene
Theo’s rage
Arwen and Pavel sex scene!
What I liked less:
Number of times “Bozhe!” was used
Impending death trope yet again
Pavel isn’t bad, but not wow
Me at the end: “No, Pax, don’t!”
A rating and a longer review will come later.
Feb 23, 2023
What a blurb! And it sounds like we’ll get some Arwen anyway, even if it’s not his book. Want!
Nov 30, 2022
Could this be Arwen’s story? Nalini said it’s a bear/psy book.
I really like Arwen and it would be good to have another m/m from her. She did such a great job with Archangel’s Light.
BTW, I interviewed Nalini this past October and she had some exciting news about the Psy/Changeling (and Guild Hunter) series.
My full length review with Jennie from July 24 can be found at DA, here:
https://dearauthor.com/book-reviews/r...
June 22, 2023 - finished!
What I liked (a lot):
Theo
Yakov (Yasha)
Romance front and center
Enough Arwen to satisfy me
Pax
creepy mystery
Nightclub scene
Theo’s rage
Arwen and Pavel sex scene!
What I liked less:
Number of times “Bozhe!” was used
Impending death trope yet again
Pavel isn’t bad, but not wow
Me at the end: “No, Pax, don’t!”
A rating and a longer review will come later.
Feb 23, 2023
What a blurb! And it sounds like we’ll get some Arwen anyway, even if it’s not his book. Want!
Nov 30, 2022
Could this be Arwen’s story? Nalini said it’s a bear/psy book.
I really like Arwen and it would be good to have another m/m from her. She did such a great job with Archangel’s Light.
BTW, I interviewed Nalini this past October and she had some exciting news about the Psy/Changeling (and Guild Hunter) series.
July 20, 2023
Ok, I am intrigued after finishing this book. It was good actually, better than the last 4-5 I’ve read.
I liked all MCs, but Pasha and sweet Arwen stole the show, I wish there was more of them, but I’m satisfied how they relationship progressed. And the intimacy between them was the cherry on top. It gives me hope to see the same thing happening between Illium and Aodhan too in GH series.
The cats and the wolves will always be my favourite, but bears are not bad too. Yakov was hilarious 😂
Stupid ID photo. Lying ID photo. Probably taken by a cat.
.
The bear’s suggestion was that Yakov stop the car, shift, and show her how handsome he was in bear form. The human side of Yakov considered it: it was true. He was a very handsome bear. And Theo would probably be disarmed by the plushness of his fur. Much less threatening than his human skin.
.
Never trust a cat who offers to sell you a life insurance policy, that’s what my dedushka Viktor always says.”
Omg, hilarious. His distrust of cats and his confidence made my day 😂
Pasha too:
“It’s fine. Krychek only demanded your liver and one kidney in return for his help,”
.
Plus my mate says they’re sexy, so you can go scratch your furry butt with some poison ivy.”
I love the twins and I love Pax too. Everything indicates that his book will be next and I CAN’T WAIT!!!! I feel like I’ve been waiting for forever to read his story. I liked the ending of this book and my anticipation is sky high. I wonder who’ll be his mate? Stasya perhaps? 👀🤔 She’s strong enough for him.
I liked all MCs, but Pasha and sweet Arwen stole the show, I wish there was more of them, but I’m satisfied how they relationship progressed. And the intimacy between them was the cherry on top. It gives me hope to see the same thing happening between Illium and Aodhan too in GH series.
The cats and the wolves will always be my favourite, but bears are not bad too. Yakov was hilarious 😂
Stupid ID photo. Lying ID photo. Probably taken by a cat.
.
The bear’s suggestion was that Yakov stop the car, shift, and show her how handsome he was in bear form. The human side of Yakov considered it: it was true. He was a very handsome bear. And Theo would probably be disarmed by the plushness of his fur. Much less threatening than his human skin.
.
Never trust a cat who offers to sell you a life insurance policy, that’s what my dedushka Viktor always says.”
Omg, hilarious. His distrust of cats and his confidence made my day 😂
Pasha too:
“It’s fine. Krychek only demanded your liver and one kidney in return for his help,”
.
Plus my mate says they’re sexy, so you can go scratch your furry butt with some poison ivy.”
I love the twins and I love Pax too. Everything indicates that his book will be next and I CAN’T WAIT!!!! I feel like I’ve been waiting for forever to read his story. I liked the ending of this book and my anticipation is sky high. I wonder who’ll be his mate? Stasya perhaps? 👀🤔 She’s strong enough for him.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 15, 2023
Introduction
Resonance is the 7th installment in the Trinity series but is the 22nd installment in the Psy Changeling world. There is something about this series that is so much more than you could ever expect and honestly I think its some of Singh's best writing. And there were some delightful suprises in this book that I honestly didn't expect to see from this author. There are two romance plot lines, although Yakov's storyline is much more stronger than Pavel. Considering this is the first time I have seen this author introduce a gay couple on page, I am not shocked by it. I am curious to see if we will start to see these type of themes in future books from her, she definitely has me intrigued. The romance that builds between these couples are unique and different from each other but so poignant. Its packed with plenty of laughs, the endearing qualities of pack dynamics among the bear clans and family close ties to tug at your heartstrings. Definitely an installment to gush over.
Summary
Stone Water Bear twins, Pavel and Yakov Stepyrev, have always been attached at the hip but now when they meet their potential mates, both Pavel and Yakov find themselves going into different directions. Pavel funs into Arwen Mercan, who is a Psy Empath and they begin starting a relationship and developing their mated bond. ARwen is shy and reserved and has never been used to the type of attention that he receives from Pavel but he can't resist what he feels and the love that just bursts from Pavel. Then we have Yakov who is the primary storyline of "Resonance Surge" Theodora is also a twin with Pax, but growing up they were seperated because she was viewed by her family as weak and much less than. She was forced to go through certain measures and now she is determined to atone for those mistakes she made but as she and Yakov discover the secrets of the past they also discover a tight endearing bond that only strengthens the more that they are together. But there is a foul plan happening and neither of them or those they consider family will see what is ahead, will they be able to rise above it and be able to embrace a brighter future ....together?
My Outlook
So Resonance Surge is a story that utterly captured my heart and so quickly too. We are first brought into the heroine's world and man my heart just poured for this young woman who has been alone for so long and is just now reconnecting with her twin. As we see what she suffered, your heart will bleed for her especially in how badly her family turned on her. And then bring in the BEARS!!! Now I have to say I have read many bear shifter romances, but Nalini Singh so easily captures their lifestyle in such authentic ways. I love their bright energy and eagerness for life and all the pranks that they play just cracks me up. But they have so much love for each other and I am in love with seeing how this author brought her readers back to the bear changeling packs and seeing so much more depth to the clan and the Russian culture. The romance was slow building but also introduces the reader to captivating emotion and relationship growth that I found to be so relatable. The way that our couple ends up being so vulnerable with each other and connect in these small and big ways was monumental for the story. I enjoyed the little touches that Nalini Singh delivers with her books and we definitely see such the intimacy being so well developed and my heart just went out so quickly to these two. If you are a fan of the way that Singh writes these pairing, I guarantee that you won't be disappointed with how this story is developed while alos building a plot that keeps you on the edge of your seat and in suspense from beginning to end.
Overall View
Overall I found Resonance Surge to be a poignant romance that feeds the heart with such slow building tension, a plot that has a breath of mystery and inspires the reader to delve deeper, and delivers a group of stories to fee the romantic heart and packs a punch straight to the heart!
Rating Evaluation:
Plot: 5
World Building: 5
Cover:5
Hero: 5
Heroine: 4.5
Steam: 4
Heart & Feels:4.5
Ending:5
Overall View: 4.5
Resonance is the 7th installment in the Trinity series but is the 22nd installment in the Psy Changeling world. There is something about this series that is so much more than you could ever expect and honestly I think its some of Singh's best writing. And there were some delightful suprises in this book that I honestly didn't expect to see from this author. There are two romance plot lines, although Yakov's storyline is much more stronger than Pavel. Considering this is the first time I have seen this author introduce a gay couple on page, I am not shocked by it. I am curious to see if we will start to see these type of themes in future books from her, she definitely has me intrigued. The romance that builds between these couples are unique and different from each other but so poignant. Its packed with plenty of laughs, the endearing qualities of pack dynamics among the bear clans and family close ties to tug at your heartstrings. Definitely an installment to gush over.
Summary
Stone Water Bear twins, Pavel and Yakov Stepyrev, have always been attached at the hip but now when they meet their potential mates, both Pavel and Yakov find themselves going into different directions. Pavel funs into Arwen Mercan, who is a Psy Empath and they begin starting a relationship and developing their mated bond. ARwen is shy and reserved and has never been used to the type of attention that he receives from Pavel but he can't resist what he feels and the love that just bursts from Pavel. Then we have Yakov who is the primary storyline of "Resonance Surge" Theodora is also a twin with Pax, but growing up they were seperated because she was viewed by her family as weak and much less than. She was forced to go through certain measures and now she is determined to atone for those mistakes she made but as she and Yakov discover the secrets of the past they also discover a tight endearing bond that only strengthens the more that they are together. But there is a foul plan happening and neither of them or those they consider family will see what is ahead, will they be able to rise above it and be able to embrace a brighter future ....together?
My Outlook
So Resonance Surge is a story that utterly captured my heart and so quickly too. We are first brought into the heroine's world and man my heart just poured for this young woman who has been alone for so long and is just now reconnecting with her twin. As we see what she suffered, your heart will bleed for her especially in how badly her family turned on her. And then bring in the BEARS!!! Now I have to say I have read many bear shifter romances, but Nalini Singh so easily captures their lifestyle in such authentic ways. I love their bright energy and eagerness for life and all the pranks that they play just cracks me up. But they have so much love for each other and I am in love with seeing how this author brought her readers back to the bear changeling packs and seeing so much more depth to the clan and the Russian culture. The romance was slow building but also introduces the reader to captivating emotion and relationship growth that I found to be so relatable. The way that our couple ends up being so vulnerable with each other and connect in these small and big ways was monumental for the story. I enjoyed the little touches that Nalini Singh delivers with her books and we definitely see such the intimacy being so well developed and my heart just went out so quickly to these two. If you are a fan of the way that Singh writes these pairing, I guarantee that you won't be disappointed with how this story is developed while alos building a plot that keeps you on the edge of your seat and in suspense from beginning to end.
Overall View
Overall I found Resonance Surge to be a poignant romance that feeds the heart with such slow building tension, a plot that has a breath of mystery and inspires the reader to delve deeper, and delivers a group of stories to fee the romantic heart and packs a punch straight to the heart!
Rating Evaluation:
Plot: 5
World Building: 5
Cover:5
Hero: 5
Heroine: 4.5
Steam: 4
Heart & Feels:4.5
Ending:5
Overall View: 4.5
August 2, 2024
Reread 8/1/24- still don't care for this one. But I finished my series reread! Now it's on to Primal Mirror.
Theo is another damaged psy with mysterious powers and Yakov is a happy-go-lucky bear who is assigned to help her investigate the mysterious psy medical centers where they sent the ones that didn't do Silence right to get brain wipes.
Generally, the Psy-Changeling pairings are my absolute favorite. But I've never been a fan of the Bears. Bear is forever Pooh to me so I have a hard time with seeing them as sexy beings 🫣 But it would have been fine except the story dragged. And I mean the pacing was so off it took me a whole week to get through the first half.The entire thing takes place over a few days, and it's mostly a bunch of conversations between Yakov and Theo about bears and changelings and stuff the reader already knows. There's zero chemistry and no sexy scenes until like 80% in lol. There are also a plethora of secondary characters that are mentioned or introduced which made the whole thing even more confusing. The overarching plot takes a back seat and we don't get much about that until almost the end and that's where things finally get interesting. Kaleb makes an appearance and the way one character can elevate this lukewarm story immediately just by the mention of his name... That's the power of good character development. Also, I love him as much as chocolate 🥹
This is probably my least favorite in the Trinity series. I miss being able to get invested in the characters before their books like in the OG series. We had the wolves and the cats and the Psy. And we didn't have a zillion stories about random relatives I don't care about. And even when I didn't care about the romance (looking at you Tangle of Need) I was still invested in the overarching plot. This time both of those things were so poorly played out that I checked out until my boo Kaleb appeared. The last chapter got really interesting and I'm looking forward to the next book. Let's hope the magic is recaptured because right now it feels like the series is losing steam.
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion. All thoughts are my own.
Tropes:
Opposites attract
Fated mates
🌟🌟🌟/5
🔥/5
Theo is another damaged psy with mysterious powers and Yakov is a happy-go-lucky bear who is assigned to help her investigate the mysterious psy medical centers where they sent the ones that didn't do Silence right to get brain wipes.
Generally, the Psy-Changeling pairings are my absolute favorite. But I've never been a fan of the Bears. Bear is forever Pooh to me so I have a hard time with seeing them as sexy beings 🫣 But it would have been fine except the story dragged. And I mean the pacing was so off it took me a whole week to get through the first half.The entire thing takes place over a few days, and it's mostly a bunch of conversations between Yakov and Theo about bears and changelings and stuff the reader already knows. There's zero chemistry and no sexy scenes until like 80% in lol. There are also a plethora of secondary characters that are mentioned or introduced which made the whole thing even more confusing. The overarching plot takes a back seat and we don't get much about that until almost the end and that's where things finally get interesting. Kaleb makes an appearance and the way one character can elevate this lukewarm story immediately just by the mention of his name... That's the power of good character development. Also, I love him as much as chocolate 🥹
This is probably my least favorite in the Trinity series. I miss being able to get invested in the characters before their books like in the OG series. We had the wolves and the cats and the Psy. And we didn't have a zillion stories about random relatives I don't care about. And even when I didn't care about the romance (looking at you Tangle of Need) I was still invested in the overarching plot. This time both of those things were so poorly played out that I checked out until my boo Kaleb appeared. The last chapter got really interesting and I'm looking forward to the next book. Let's hope the magic is recaptured because right now it feels like the series is losing steam.
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion. All thoughts are my own.
Tropes:
Opposites attract
Fated mates
🌟🌟🌟/5
🔥/5
June 22, 2023
Singh's latest foray into her Psy-Changeling world left this reader feeling rather blase. Similar to the last few installments, we are getting secondary and never heard of character stories while major character stories wait in the wings. Heavy on the romance but light on the plot. Not to say the premise wasn't interesting but I really felt it could have been explored more in depth. Some light cameos with a strong secondary romance that in my opinion was richer and more full bodies than the primary one. The ending is dramatic with an epilogue that spikes the curiosity and definitely ensures you will have to read the next one.
July 24, 2023
This is my favourite paranormal series and every new book is like coming home. I love the familiarity of the world, seeing so many characters from previous books always brings me joy.
The psy and changelings are my favourites in this world and I am always happy when they make up the central couple in the book. Here we got not one but two psy-changeling couples and the first queer one. Yes, Pavel and Arwen came second to Yakov and Theo(dora) but their romance was strongly present and ||they become mated by the end|| which I loved and appreciate as a sign that this is not a heteronormative world after all.
I didn't expect to love the bears but there is so much playfulness about them, they are not the most graceful or athletic of the changelings but they are not just brute force by far. I loved being back in their den.
Theo, like most of the psy we meet has deep scars (mental and physical) from the trauma she suffered in the past. She fights viciously to confront her past, to unravel the secrets and to move forward. And I admire all this.
At the same time, I feel that the torture both physical and mental, the near total destruction of these people (psy) is getting too much. It is there in the back story of so many psy characters in the series and I find it harder and harder to read about it. Yes, they overcome it as best they can, usually with the support of their mate/human partner. There is always hope in the end of these stories. Yet, I am getting tired of the violence, extreme violence they experience in the past. I don't know if I can say it is becoming to feel gratuitous (it still makes sense to me in the psy world) but it is becoming painful for me to read. When I think back on the stories, I don't remember details of the happy ending (it is always there, don't get me wrong) but I remember details of the torture and abuse the characters went through.
This is an overall observation, not a negative assessment of this book. It just all crystalised for me with in this book.
I still love the writing, the complexity of the world, the characters, both main and secondary, are well developed and everyone stands out on there own. I just really need the main arc to take a kinder, more gentle direction, especially with regard to the psy, in the next books.
CW: abuse, violence, child abuse, mental illness
The psy and changelings are my favourites in this world and I am always happy when they make up the central couple in the book. Here we got not one but two psy-changeling couples and the first queer one. Yes, Pavel and Arwen came second to Yakov and Theo(dora) but their romance was strongly present and ||they become mated by the end|| which I loved and appreciate as a sign that this is not a heteronormative world after all.
I didn't expect to love the bears but there is so much playfulness about them, they are not the most graceful or athletic of the changelings but they are not just brute force by far. I loved being back in their den.
Theo, like most of the psy we meet has deep scars (mental and physical) from the trauma she suffered in the past. She fights viciously to confront her past, to unravel the secrets and to move forward. And I admire all this.
At the same time, I feel that the torture both physical and mental, the near total destruction of these people (psy) is getting too much. It is there in the back story of so many psy characters in the series and I find it harder and harder to read about it. Yes, they overcome it as best they can, usually with the support of their mate/human partner. There is always hope in the end of these stories. Yet, I am getting tired of the violence, extreme violence they experience in the past. I don't know if I can say it is becoming to feel gratuitous (it still makes sense to me in the psy world) but it is becoming painful for me to read. When I think back on the stories, I don't remember details of the happy ending (it is always there, don't get me wrong) but I remember details of the torture and abuse the characters went through.
This is an overall observation, not a negative assessment of this book. It just all crystalised for me with in this book.
I still love the writing, the complexity of the world, the characters, both main and secondary, are well developed and everyone stands out on there own. I just really need the main arc to take a kinder, more gentle direction, especially with regard to the psy, in the next books.
CW: abuse, violence, child abuse, mental illness
December 9, 2023
3 1/2 to 4 Stars
Overall, I enjoyed this book. The main love story was engaging and I love getting snippets of Pavel and Arwen’s relationship. It was a fun secondary romance. Those two always put a smile on my face. Oh, how I love the Bears! I wish we would have spent more time with them in the Den. Sadly, most of the story takes place outside the Bear Den.
I also loved learning more about the founding of Silence and how it affected families. I loved the letters. So heartbreaking.
Even though I enjoyed the book, I also struggled to stay engaged with it. There was just too much going on. Too many subplots and too many new characters I didn’t care about.
That said, we did get quite a few scenes with Kaleb Krychek. We even got his point of view!! He’s my all time favorite character so add Kaleb in a book and I will read.
Anyway, I’m looking forward to the next book.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. The main love story was engaging and I love getting snippets of Pavel and Arwen’s relationship. It was a fun secondary romance. Those two always put a smile on my face. Oh, how I love the Bears! I wish we would have spent more time with them in the Den. Sadly, most of the story takes place outside the Bear Den.
I also loved learning more about the founding of Silence and how it affected families. I loved the letters. So heartbreaking.
Even though I enjoyed the book, I also struggled to stay engaged with it. There was just too much going on. Too many subplots and too many new characters I didn’t care about.
That said, we did get quite a few scenes with Kaleb Krychek. We even got his point of view!! He’s my all time favorite character so add Kaleb in a book and I will read.
Anyway, I’m looking forward to the next book.
September 26, 2025
Halloween Bingo 2025
I've been tearing through this series this year. I had to interlibrary loan this volume, but it was worth it. In Nalini Singh’s Psy-Changeling world, there are three population groups: Humans, the shapeshifting Changelings, and the icy, Silent Psy. Except the Psy's world has undergone a seismic shift—Silence has fallen and Psy are permitted to feel emotions again. It's been revealing the evils of Silence, the crimes committed by those in power. Under Silence, disobedient Psy could be sent to “rehabilitation“ centres to be reduced to a vegetative state as a warning to other restive citizens.
The Marshall Group was a particularly powerful Psy family. This book features Theodora Marshall, a very weak Psy with a remarkably strong twin, Pax. Theo's psychopathic grandfather has been killed and Pax has become the head of the family and their business holdings. It turns out that they are heavily invested in the rehabilitation centres. And there's this one odd Centre with spotty records close to Moscow. Theo agrees to investigate for her beloved brother, which will require liaising with the Changeling Bear Clan.
Now, I adore the intrigue of Psy society, watching them thaw and rediscovering the pleasures of life—food, rest, love. But I am coming to appreciate the Bear shifters almost as much. Singh obviously has fun writing these bears with their enormous hearts, love of life, and relishing of food and drink. They are straightforward, leaning toward blunt. Could any group be more perfect for rescuing damaged Psy?
Yakov Stepyrev may be a Changeling, but he has a Psy ancestor, an F Psy with predictive powers, and he has been “seeing" Theo since he was a teen. When she walks out of airport security, he is stunned. They go to the mysterious Centre together, where Theo has a paralyzing panic attack, complete with partial memory of going there as a child with her cruel grandfather and being strapped to a chair. What else was done to her? Theo must explore her dark family history in order to be able to embrace her bear, Yakov.
This book made me wish I had greater familiarity with the Russian language and customs. I have to admire Singh's willingness to spread her fiction all over the globe. (And those who have read this far will be able to smile with me as the bears speculate about Kaleb Krychek causing earthquakes for some reason. Wink, wink.)
I read this book for the Shifters square of my Halloween Bingo card.
I've been tearing through this series this year. I had to interlibrary loan this volume, but it was worth it. In Nalini Singh’s Psy-Changeling world, there are three population groups: Humans, the shapeshifting Changelings, and the icy, Silent Psy. Except the Psy's world has undergone a seismic shift—Silence has fallen and Psy are permitted to feel emotions again. It's been revealing the evils of Silence, the crimes committed by those in power. Under Silence, disobedient Psy could be sent to “rehabilitation“ centres to be reduced to a vegetative state as a warning to other restive citizens.
The Marshall Group was a particularly powerful Psy family. This book features Theodora Marshall, a very weak Psy with a remarkably strong twin, Pax. Theo's psychopathic grandfather has been killed and Pax has become the head of the family and their business holdings. It turns out that they are heavily invested in the rehabilitation centres. And there's this one odd Centre with spotty records close to Moscow. Theo agrees to investigate for her beloved brother, which will require liaising with the Changeling Bear Clan.
Now, I adore the intrigue of Psy society, watching them thaw and rediscovering the pleasures of life—food, rest, love. But I am coming to appreciate the Bear shifters almost as much. Singh obviously has fun writing these bears with their enormous hearts, love of life, and relishing of food and drink. They are straightforward, leaning toward blunt. Could any group be more perfect for rescuing damaged Psy?
Yakov Stepyrev may be a Changeling, but he has a Psy ancestor, an F Psy with predictive powers, and he has been “seeing" Theo since he was a teen. When she walks out of airport security, he is stunned. They go to the mysterious Centre together, where Theo has a paralyzing panic attack, complete with partial memory of going there as a child with her cruel grandfather and being strapped to a chair. What else was done to her? Theo must explore her dark family history in order to be able to embrace her bear, Yakov.
This book made me wish I had greater familiarity with the Russian language and customs. I have to admire Singh's willingness to spread her fiction all over the globe. (And those who have read this far will be able to smile with me as the bears speculate about Kaleb Krychek causing earthquakes for some reason. Wink, wink.)
I read this book for the Shifters square of my Halloween Bingo card.
March 25, 2024
This is the 27th book that I’ve read in this series, which includes 22 full installments and five novellas. I love this epic series that New Zealand native, Nalini Singh, created nearly 20yrs ago with its amazing world, fascinating storylines and extraordinary characters. At this point in the series, it really doesn’t do it justice to just review the most recent installment. So, I’d rather review the overall series, thus far, to give it the credit and recognition that it deserves.
It began in a futuristic San Francisco nearing the end of the 21st century. There are three races: the Psy, the Changelings, and the Humans. The Psy are kind of like human androids, intelligent beings lacking any and all emotions and feelings, that is enforced by the Silence Protocol. The Psy are connected to the PsyNet, which is a massive, interconnected hive of all the Psy minds. The Psy have a variety of psychic abilities and must remain connected to the PsyNet or they will die. They are ruled by the Psy Council who enforces the Silence Protocol. The Changelings are shape shifters, pretty much every species of shapeshifter you can think of and also possess a variety of mental, emotional, and physical strengths and abilities. The Changelings abilities are in conjunction with the abilities of their respective species. The Changelings are pack animals and are led by the alphas of their respective packs. Humans are no different than the human race that has been present for centuries, which makes them the weakest race of the universe, and they are painfully aware of that and are reminded of that daily. They are led by the Human Alliance, which is constantly striving for human dominance. Same as they always have.
There are the stories of the worldwide civilizations of the races maintaining very precarious societies of trying to live among each other and not succeeding very well because of the lack of trust of each other, and the ingrained prejudice that the races have for one another. Most societies are run by either the Psy or the Changelings as the more dominant races in population and business as well as politics and technology. There are skirmishes and battles over turf wars, over individual racial customs, practices, and ways of life, but most especially over business relationships and opportunities. While interracial business relationships are seen as a necessary evil, interracial romantic relationships are prohibited by the Psy. Over the course of the series, the interracial relationships between high-ranking Psy, Changeling Alphas and Human leaders have broken down a lot of those walls for some on the Psy council members, the other council members become psychopaths in an effort to maintain the purity of the Psy race. Sounding familiar? The mentality of these psycho council members isn’t all that different than the mentality of KKK members. The scary part is that the psycho Psy are far more intelligent, capable and dangerous than any KKK member.
Eventually, the corrupted and infected PsyNet begins to deteriorate and millions of Psy died as a result of the PsyNet fractures. This event triggered the fall of Silence and millions of Psy were able to breakaway from the PsyNet and connect to other means of survival (14th installment). At this point in the series, the arc of the races living contentiously as separate rulers of society was over. Many of the worldwide leaders of the races come together to form the Trinity Accord (15th installment). The Alliance, a ruling body of all the races developed a treaty of living together, harmoniously, for the survival of all the races. However, there are still those that want nothing to do with a united world and are in league to destroy the Alliance and tear down the accords, attacking from both the inside as well as the outside. They are the Consortium.
The key players and partners, of all races, of the Trinity Accord now work together to bring down the Consortium. Singh now has a whole new arc to build up and expand for every new installment with stories centered around the various key players and partners. In this installment, the story starts in Russian and Singh introduces twin Psy, Theo and Pax who work to bring down their grandfather’s center that was a prison that was used to breakdown and punish Psy children who couldn’t or wouldn’t accept Psy Silence. Theo and Pax are assisted with previously introduced (Trinity #1) Changeling bear twins Yakok and Pavel, along with Pavel’s Psy mate, Arwin.
The ending was a lead into the next installment, which is a continuation of the Alliance’s effort to protect and save as many of the sane Psy, as the PsyNet continues to fracture. I really enjoy the audiobooks because the series narrator, Angela Dawes, is a phenomenal narrator when using different voices and adding in tones and inflections along with humor and the snarky one liners in all the right places.
It began in a futuristic San Francisco nearing the end of the 21st century. There are three races: the Psy, the Changelings, and the Humans. The Psy are kind of like human androids, intelligent beings lacking any and all emotions and feelings, that is enforced by the Silence Protocol. The Psy are connected to the PsyNet, which is a massive, interconnected hive of all the Psy minds. The Psy have a variety of psychic abilities and must remain connected to the PsyNet or they will die. They are ruled by the Psy Council who enforces the Silence Protocol. The Changelings are shape shifters, pretty much every species of shapeshifter you can think of and also possess a variety of mental, emotional, and physical strengths and abilities. The Changelings abilities are in conjunction with the abilities of their respective species. The Changelings are pack animals and are led by the alphas of their respective packs. Humans are no different than the human race that has been present for centuries, which makes them the weakest race of the universe, and they are painfully aware of that and are reminded of that daily. They are led by the Human Alliance, which is constantly striving for human dominance. Same as they always have.
There are the stories of the worldwide civilizations of the races maintaining very precarious societies of trying to live among each other and not succeeding very well because of the lack of trust of each other, and the ingrained prejudice that the races have for one another. Most societies are run by either the Psy or the Changelings as the more dominant races in population and business as well as politics and technology. There are skirmishes and battles over turf wars, over individual racial customs, practices, and ways of life, but most especially over business relationships and opportunities. While interracial business relationships are seen as a necessary evil, interracial romantic relationships are prohibited by the Psy. Over the course of the series, the interracial relationships between high-ranking Psy, Changeling Alphas and Human leaders have broken down a lot of those walls for some on the Psy council members, the other council members become psychopaths in an effort to maintain the purity of the Psy race. Sounding familiar? The mentality of these psycho council members isn’t all that different than the mentality of KKK members. The scary part is that the psycho Psy are far more intelligent, capable and dangerous than any KKK member.
Eventually, the corrupted and infected PsyNet begins to deteriorate and millions of Psy died as a result of the PsyNet fractures. This event triggered the fall of Silence and millions of Psy were able to breakaway from the PsyNet and connect to other means of survival (14th installment). At this point in the series, the arc of the races living contentiously as separate rulers of society was over. Many of the worldwide leaders of the races come together to form the Trinity Accord (15th installment). The Alliance, a ruling body of all the races developed a treaty of living together, harmoniously, for the survival of all the races. However, there are still those that want nothing to do with a united world and are in league to destroy the Alliance and tear down the accords, attacking from both the inside as well as the outside. They are the Consortium.
The key players and partners, of all races, of the Trinity Accord now work together to bring down the Consortium. Singh now has a whole new arc to build up and expand for every new installment with stories centered around the various key players and partners. In this installment, the story starts in Russian and Singh introduces twin Psy, Theo and Pax who work to bring down their grandfather’s center that was a prison that was used to breakdown and punish Psy children who couldn’t or wouldn’t accept Psy Silence. Theo and Pax are assisted with previously introduced (Trinity #1) Changeling bear twins Yakok and Pavel, along with Pavel’s Psy mate, Arwin.
The ending was a lead into the next installment, which is a continuation of the Alliance’s effort to protect and save as many of the sane Psy, as the PsyNet continues to fracture. I really enjoy the audiobooks because the series narrator, Angela Dawes, is a phenomenal narrator when using different voices and adding in tones and inflections along with humor and the snarky one liners in all the right places.
August 23, 2023
Resonance Surge is the latest in the Psy-Changeling paranormal romance series about a future world where various animal shapeshifters coexist with, and often fall madly in love with the previously emotionless Psy race, who look human, but have various special mental powers. Each book follows the same formula for the romance, with at least one character believing themselves irreparably damaged by past trauma, only to be cured by the power of lurve. What saves them is the ongoing saga of competing factions, mysterious killers, family politics, and the incredibly developed unique world Singh has created. I don’t think these work as stand-alones - I’ve read them all in order, but you probably can start with the “Trinity” second season which starts with Silver Silence.
Theodora Marshall is a low-gradient Psy who was separated from her powerful twin Pax (who has appeared as a shady not-quite-villain in previous books) as a child, and tortured into becoming an accomplice to murder by her evil megalomaniac but now dead grandfather. Sent to Russia to investigate a decommissioned Psy treatment centre, she is to be escorted by local bear changeling Yacov Stepynev - who recognises her as the woman who has haunted his dreams for years - but now they are nightmares where he is powerless to prevent her murder.
As most of my bookish friends know, I hate romance novels - these are the only ones I will tolerate, and periodically think that I should just give up on them, but then Nalini captures my interest again with whatever’s going on in the Psy-Net. This one felt longer than usual, perhaps because the pace was rather slow - there’s a lot less action than usual, and a lot more talking. Ironically some reviewers have been disappointed by the reduction in number and spice of the sex scenes, whereas this was a big plus for me. Conversely, I’m disappointed to see some reviewers one-star this simply because it features a same sex (male) pairing as the secondary couple, which was actually very sweet and has been coming for a while, and one very tame love scene between them - and complain that they should’ve been warned!
A big improvement was the dialling down of the usual flowery repetitive descriptions of each main character’s eyes, hair and scent - it’s still there, but nowhere near as much as in previous books. There is a lot of repetition about bear natures and habits, and about Theo’s broken psyche - and uncomfortably frequent references to the physical and emotional abuse she suffered as a child. As ever, I enjoyed the cameo appearances by characters from the previous books, and the backstory of Yacov’s ancestor, and the murder mystery were well done - I didn’t guess the identity of the killer.
I didn’t like the title which bears no relation to anything in the story whatsoever.
Overall, if you already like this series, this is a solid instalment, but not one of the best. While I like the bears, and the scenes of den life, I’m bored with them as romantic heroes, and hope she either goes back to one of the older characters for her next pairing, or at least sorts out poor Pax.
Theodora Marshall is a low-gradient Psy who was separated from her powerful twin Pax (who has appeared as a shady not-quite-villain in previous books) as a child, and tortured into becoming an accomplice to murder by her evil megalomaniac but now dead grandfather. Sent to Russia to investigate a decommissioned Psy treatment centre, she is to be escorted by local bear changeling Yacov Stepynev - who recognises her as the woman who has haunted his dreams for years - but now they are nightmares where he is powerless to prevent her murder.
As most of my bookish friends know, I hate romance novels - these are the only ones I will tolerate, and periodically think that I should just give up on them, but then Nalini captures my interest again with whatever’s going on in the Psy-Net. This one felt longer than usual, perhaps because the pace was rather slow - there’s a lot less action than usual, and a lot more talking. Ironically some reviewers have been disappointed by the reduction in number and spice of the sex scenes, whereas this was a big plus for me. Conversely, I’m disappointed to see some reviewers one-star this simply because it features a same sex (male) pairing as the secondary couple, which was actually very sweet and has been coming for a while, and one very tame love scene between them - and complain that they should’ve been warned!
A big improvement was the dialling down of the usual flowery repetitive descriptions of each main character’s eyes, hair and scent - it’s still there, but nowhere near as much as in previous books. There is a lot of repetition about bear natures and habits, and about Theo’s broken psyche - and uncomfortably frequent references to the physical and emotional abuse she suffered as a child. As ever, I enjoyed the cameo appearances by characters from the previous books, and the backstory of Yacov’s ancestor, and the murder mystery were well done - I didn’t guess the identity of the killer.
I didn’t like the title which bears no relation to anything in the story whatsoever.
Overall, if you already like this series, this is a solid instalment, but not one of the best. While I like the bears, and the scenes of den life, I’m bored with them as romantic heroes, and hope she either goes back to one of the older characters for her next pairing, or at least sorts out poor Pax.
July 26, 2023
4.5 Stars
Theodora “Theo” Marshall has been raised to believe she’s worthless as a 2.7 Telekinetic Psy. The only reason her evil grandfather, Councilor Marshall Hyde didn’t have her murdered is because her death would’ve affected her twin, Pax, a gradient 9. Theo and Pax have stuck together over the years despite their grandfather’s efforts to split them up. Thankfully, her grandfather is dead and now Pax is the head of the Marshall house.
When Pax notices that a supposedly decommissioned “rehabilitation” center is still drawing money he sends Theo, the only family he trusts, to investigate. Being that it’s in the StoneWater Pack territory, she’s assigned a bear escort, Yakov Stepyrev.
Yakov has had dreams of his mate since the age of sixteen, but only lately has those dreams turned into nightmares with the woman drenched in blood, dying. Little does he know that he’s about to come face to face with her when he’s assigned to escort Theo.
My heart ached at the abuse that Theodora suffered at the hands of her grandfather, a truly evil man! It seems to me in Silence the Psy race committed the worst atrocities. The rehabilitation centers were free to lock up “defective” Psy, those who couldn’t go Silent by suppressing emotion, and do a mental wipe, or worse. Investigating the center loosens traumatic memories for Theo, and Yakov can’t hold his protective instincts back. Just in time too, because there’s danger stalking Theo.
Resonance Surge was mostly Yakov and Theodora’s romance, but we also get the culmination of Pavel, Yakov’s twin brother, and Arwen Merchant’s romance. They’ve been dancing around each other in several of the past books, so it’s been a long time coming! The bears are my favorite changelings: big, boisterous and loving and I just had to laugh at their antics! The way they care for their young cubs just melted my heart! Yakov and Pavel are labeled “Mischief Bear Number One and Mischief Bear Number Two” by their grandmother, and it was fitting! The joy, playfulness and love from the Bears was exactly what Theo’s soul needed to heal after her nightmare childhood!
While things wrap up with Theo, Yakov, Pavel and Arwen, the ongoing story arc of the Psy Net crumbling, Scarab Syndrome and the evil trying to destabilize the cooperation between Humans, Psy, and Changelings continues. I’m not sure how it’ll all be solved. Pax, Theo’s twin, also has a threat brewing and I wonder if he’ll be the focus of the next installment. This is a series that’s best read in order. At the very least I’d start from the beginning of the Trinity novels.
A copy was kindly provided by Berkley in exchange for an honest review.
Theodora “Theo” Marshall has been raised to believe she’s worthless as a 2.7 Telekinetic Psy. The only reason her evil grandfather, Councilor Marshall Hyde didn’t have her murdered is because her death would’ve affected her twin, Pax, a gradient 9. Theo and Pax have stuck together over the years despite their grandfather’s efforts to split them up. Thankfully, her grandfather is dead and now Pax is the head of the Marshall house.
When Pax notices that a supposedly decommissioned “rehabilitation” center is still drawing money he sends Theo, the only family he trusts, to investigate. Being that it’s in the StoneWater Pack territory, she’s assigned a bear escort, Yakov Stepyrev.
Yakov has had dreams of his mate since the age of sixteen, but only lately has those dreams turned into nightmares with the woman drenched in blood, dying. Little does he know that he’s about to come face to face with her when he’s assigned to escort Theo.
My heart ached at the abuse that Theodora suffered at the hands of her grandfather, a truly evil man! It seems to me in Silence the Psy race committed the worst atrocities. The rehabilitation centers were free to lock up “defective” Psy, those who couldn’t go Silent by suppressing emotion, and do a mental wipe, or worse. Investigating the center loosens traumatic memories for Theo, and Yakov can’t hold his protective instincts back. Just in time too, because there’s danger stalking Theo.
Resonance Surge was mostly Yakov and Theodora’s romance, but we also get the culmination of Pavel, Yakov’s twin brother, and Arwen Merchant’s romance. They’ve been dancing around each other in several of the past books, so it’s been a long time coming! The bears are my favorite changelings: big, boisterous and loving and I just had to laugh at their antics! The way they care for their young cubs just melted my heart! Yakov and Pavel are labeled “Mischief Bear Number One and Mischief Bear Number Two” by their grandmother, and it was fitting! The joy, playfulness and love from the Bears was exactly what Theo’s soul needed to heal after her nightmare childhood!
While things wrap up with Theo, Yakov, Pavel and Arwen, the ongoing story arc of the Psy Net crumbling, Scarab Syndrome and the evil trying to destabilize the cooperation between Humans, Psy, and Changelings continues. I’m not sure how it’ll all be solved. Pax, Theo’s twin, also has a threat brewing and I wonder if he’ll be the focus of the next installment. This is a series that’s best read in order. At the very least I’d start from the beginning of the Trinity novels.
A copy was kindly provided by Berkley in exchange for an honest review.
August 2, 2023
* 2 stars *
bland and slow.
i couldn't care less about theo & yakov, they were very cookie cutter style. it's nothing we haven't read ad nauseam before in this series.
arwen & pavel were adorable but they felt a bit saccharine at times, i wanted more depth from the few scenes they've had. marketing this book as a 2-for-1 was unfair imo because the two couples didn't have equal presence on page.
with the rate things are moving i fully expect to see the end of this psynet falling plot sometime in the next ten books, which i guess is sort of the point.
i'm just sad that she's writing about random unknown characters in which we're not invested in emotionally when there are already so many other interesting characters that have been waiting in the wings for ages.
i'm sticking around for pax marshall's book because he's the new kaleb krychek but i wish there was something else making him special other than the fact that he's on borrowed time like literally all previous main characters which have been under the threat of: a. going insane or b. dying.
bland and slow.
i couldn't care less about theo & yakov, they were very cookie cutter style. it's nothing we haven't read ad nauseam before in this series.
arwen & pavel were adorable but they felt a bit saccharine at times, i wanted more depth from the few scenes they've had. marketing this book as a 2-for-1 was unfair imo because the two couples didn't have equal presence on page.
with the rate things are moving i fully expect to see the end of this psynet falling plot sometime in the next ten books, which i guess is sort of the point.
i'm just sad that she's writing about random unknown characters in which we're not invested in emotionally when there are already so many other interesting characters that have been waiting in the wings for ages.
i'm sticking around for pax marshall's book because he's the new kaleb krychek but i wish there was something else making him special other than the fact that he's on borrowed time like literally all previous main characters which have been under the threat of: a. going insane or b. dying.
March 28, 2023
Gotta be honest, this is not my favorite book in the series. I didn't care about the two main characters at all, because their romance was really underwritten. I would have been very happy to read more about the sibling relationship between Theo and Pax instead. I also really wish that the books would start solving problems instead of just creating more for these poor people. And yet, I read the whole thing in 2 days, so what do I know? I can't imagine myself rereading this, but I'll almost certainly jump at the chance to read the next one.
August 7, 2023
This is the second Nalini Singh book in a row that I've rated this low. Resonance Surge is not a bad book, just disappointing.
First of all, the title is not indicative of the story.
Secondly, the couple, Theo and Yakov, were nice enough, but everything happened so fast. Too fast for me anyway.
Thirdly, the book wasn't even focused on the main couple. We got flashes of the breakdown of a brother-sister relationship as well as the development of Yakov's twin brother Pavel's relationship with Arwen Mercant. The book was all over the place.
Lastly, there was absolutely no progression in the overarching storyline. In other words, this book was all over the place except where it needed to be. And no, that little bit at the end doesn't count. It just felt like the promise of regurgitating the previous plot point. It made me roll my eyes instead of excited to read the next book.
It's a bit disappointing to wait a whole year for a new instalment and get this. The same thing happened with the last book in the Guild Hunter series. That was even more disappointing than this book. I will most likely read the next book in both series, but my excitement for Nalini's books is starting to dwindle.
It seems to me that she herself is getting tired of these two long-running series. The spark of previous books is just not there anymore. And that makes me feel sad for me as a fan of both series, but also for her as a writer. It can't be fun trudging through to churn out stories in a series that no longer excites you.
First of all, the title is not indicative of the story.
Secondly, the couple, Theo and Yakov, were nice enough, but everything happened so fast. Too fast for me anyway.
Thirdly, the book wasn't even focused on the main couple. We got flashes of the breakdown of a brother-sister relationship as well as the development of Yakov's twin brother Pavel's relationship with Arwen Mercant. The book was all over the place.
Lastly, there was absolutely no progression in the overarching storyline. In other words, this book was all over the place except where it needed to be. And no, that little bit at the end doesn't count. It just felt like the promise of regurgitating the previous plot point. It made me roll my eyes instead of excited to read the next book.
It's a bit disappointing to wait a whole year for a new instalment and get this. The same thing happened with the last book in the Guild Hunter series. That was even more disappointing than this book. I will most likely read the next book in both series, but my excitement for Nalini's books is starting to dwindle.
It seems to me that she herself is getting tired of these two long-running series. The spark of previous books is just not there anymore. And that makes me feel sad for me as a fan of both series, but also for her as a writer. It can't be fun trudging through to churn out stories in a series that no longer excites you.
August 11, 2023
I become more and more obsessed with this series each new book! Absolutely loved this one 'beary' much (I couldn't help it!). The bears are probably my favorite from this world :)
July 28, 2023
A bit surprised I didn't end up liking this one more because 1) bears and 2) psy-changeling mating, but some of that was probably just mood. This one did seem to move the overarching plot forward a bit but I still feel we're so aggressively stalled out that I don't really know what's happening. I DID like that we got more of Pavel and Arwen in this one though, it's about damn time.
August 16, 2023
The power with which I adored this book! Not only are we dealing with family dynamics that are absolutely stunning, we are dealing with a couple all about accepting all parts of yourself. The way that I needed this book and didn't even know it is beautiful. Theo is an amazing female lead, with strength and a sensual awareness that she gets to finally explore. Yakov is amazingly understanding, patient, and playful. My favorite Psy Changeling books are always the Bear ones! I love the bear clan, and the baby bear gangsters don't disappoint! I love the cameos of other couples we get to see, and I love what happens here. I hate that I have to wait another year for another book, but I am happy to wait, because they are so good!
August 28, 2023
I would have leaped at this new series installment no matter what, but when I spotted we were back with the bear changelings, I was itching to devour Resonance Surge in one go- and nearly did.
Resonance Surge is book seven in the follow up Psy-Changeling Trinity paranormal romance series. The series reads like urban fantasy in many ways. Hence, they should definitely be read in order and the original series shouldn’t be skipped.
Since Silence fell, the new Psy leaders have time to dig into the dark secrets and atrocities their predecessors hid during their time in power. Like the Psy secret compound hospitals where some unfortunate psy were sent to have their minds wiped. It was all chilling mad house torture stuff in my mind complete with a bloody serial killer and so I needed little assistance to find portions of Resonance Surge hair-raising.
I enjoy a good thriller so I appreciated that element paired with the sensational slow-burn romance between a sizzling hot and fun senior bear clan member and a lethal psy who was abused and manipulated in the past, but guilt-ridden and needing answers in the present.
Actually, make that two romances because both Yakov and his twin Pavel get their romances.
Pavel and Arwen Mercant, a powerful e-Psy have had something going through a few books now, but they finally get time in the spotlight with Yakov and Theo.
Yakov was a wonderful hero. He’s brash, dominant, and capable, but he is oh so careful with Theo who has known only darkness and pain in her life save her hidden connection with her twin, Pax. Pax was the family golden child to their sadistic Counselor grandfather and Theo was the disappointing dud that their grandfather didn’t hesitate to abuse and treat like a killing tool. Yakov’s sunny demeanor and open love and closeness with his tight-knit family and pack are exactly what she needs. I loved seeing them enjoying food, play, family, and even work together paired with the exciting or tense moments brought on by the mission she is on and danger hunting Theo.
The series arc didn’t get much advancement save for brief look-ins here and there, but I couldn’t really care because I’m such a sucker for time spent with the Stone Water bears and Mercants. That last chapter was a monster teaser leaving me needing to know what comes next in this world. I tried to take my time reading this, but there was no pumping the breaks once I got going. Love this series so much and can’t wait for each new installment.
I rec'd an eARC via NetGalley and a finished copy via Berkley Romance to read in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at Caffeinated Reader Aug 16th.
Resonance Surge is book seven in the follow up Psy-Changeling Trinity paranormal romance series. The series reads like urban fantasy in many ways. Hence, they should definitely be read in order and the original series shouldn’t be skipped.
Since Silence fell, the new Psy leaders have time to dig into the dark secrets and atrocities their predecessors hid during their time in power. Like the Psy secret compound hospitals where some unfortunate psy were sent to have their minds wiped. It was all chilling mad house torture stuff in my mind complete with a bloody serial killer and so I needed little assistance to find portions of Resonance Surge hair-raising.
I enjoy a good thriller so I appreciated that element paired with the sensational slow-burn romance between a sizzling hot and fun senior bear clan member and a lethal psy who was abused and manipulated in the past, but guilt-ridden and needing answers in the present.
Actually, make that two romances because both Yakov and his twin Pavel get their romances.
Pavel and Arwen Mercant, a powerful e-Psy have had something going through a few books now, but they finally get time in the spotlight with Yakov and Theo.
Yakov was a wonderful hero. He’s brash, dominant, and capable, but he is oh so careful with Theo who has known only darkness and pain in her life save her hidden connection with her twin, Pax. Pax was the family golden child to their sadistic Counselor grandfather and Theo was the disappointing dud that their grandfather didn’t hesitate to abuse and treat like a killing tool. Yakov’s sunny demeanor and open love and closeness with his tight-knit family and pack are exactly what she needs. I loved seeing them enjoying food, play, family, and even work together paired with the exciting or tense moments brought on by the mission she is on and danger hunting Theo.
The series arc didn’t get much advancement save for brief look-ins here and there, but I couldn’t really care because I’m such a sucker for time spent with the Stone Water bears and Mercants. That last chapter was a monster teaser leaving me needing to know what comes next in this world. I tried to take my time reading this, but there was no pumping the breaks once I got going. Love this series so much and can’t wait for each new installment.
I rec'd an eARC via NetGalley and a finished copy via Berkley Romance to read in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at Caffeinated Reader Aug 16th.
September 17, 2023
AHHHH The bears are back and they were epic!! I have been excited to read Pável and Yakov’s book since they were introduced in Silver Silence. I LOVE they dynamic of the bears and their den and their clan and allll the things. Two things I wish there were more of in this book which is why I gave 4 instead of 5 stars- I wanted more of Pável and Arwen’s story. I wish we had more of a glimpse into how their romance bloomed. And 2 I wish we had more of the den dynamic. This book took place outside the den while involving some key players which was great but also didn’t feel the same as in Silver Silence.
Yakov has been having a recurring dream his whole life about a beautiful woman dying a tragic death in front of him. Things have changed more recently and now he can’t move in the dreams. He doesn’t know what to make of them or who the girl is until he is given an assignment to be the grounds liaison with Theo Marshall. She is coming to town to investigate a facility where they believe Psy were send to be killed when her grandfather was around (her GF was Councilor Marshall). Once Yakov meets Theo he knows she is his mate but he shoves that thought down because he doesn’t know anything about her. He gives her all the cute Russian nicknames. They flirt a bit and she starts to open up. He sees that she is a spit fire with a spine of steel. Over the course of a week or so their relationship develops into something more.
During this time, there is a serial killer in Moscow who seems to be going after bulones (which Thro is). Yakov has increased security but still feels like he is missing something. Everything comes to a head when they are both kidnapped and Yakov’s vision comes true.
I seriously love how Nalini comes up with the ideas to get the heroines out of these crazy messes they get in. I am sad that Theo and Yakov were not able to experience the mating bond as it occurred during distress BUT I LOOVVEEDD Pável and Arwen’s scene- that was probably my fav scene of the book.
There is something about the OG characters that still hold my heart HARD. My fav of this series is Kiss of Snow followed by Branded by Fire and Play of Passion BUT I do so LOVE the Russian characters- the bears have been awesome and so was Alpha Night with Selenka. I can’t to her about the next book in this series. MAYBE just MAYBE it will be about Kit??? He was mentioned in Ocean Light and it could be a cool crossover to check in on where the OG peeps are. Just a thought! Hope you enjoy.
Yakov has been having a recurring dream his whole life about a beautiful woman dying a tragic death in front of him. Things have changed more recently and now he can’t move in the dreams. He doesn’t know what to make of them or who the girl is until he is given an assignment to be the grounds liaison with Theo Marshall. She is coming to town to investigate a facility where they believe Psy were send to be killed when her grandfather was around (her GF was Councilor Marshall). Once Yakov meets Theo he knows she is his mate but he shoves that thought down because he doesn’t know anything about her. He gives her all the cute Russian nicknames. They flirt a bit and she starts to open up. He sees that she is a spit fire with a spine of steel. Over the course of a week or so their relationship develops into something more.
During this time, there is a serial killer in Moscow who seems to be going after bulones (which Thro is). Yakov has increased security but still feels like he is missing something. Everything comes to a head when they are both kidnapped and Yakov’s vision comes true.
I seriously love how Nalini comes up with the ideas to get the heroines out of these crazy messes they get in. I am sad that Theo and Yakov were not able to experience the mating bond as it occurred during distress BUT I LOOVVEEDD Pável and Arwen’s scene- that was probably my fav scene of the book.
There is something about the OG characters that still hold my heart HARD. My fav of this series is Kiss of Snow followed by Branded by Fire and Play of Passion BUT I do so LOVE the Russian characters- the bears have been awesome and so was Alpha Night with Selenka. I can’t to her about the next book in this series. MAYBE just MAYBE it will be about Kit??? He was mentioned in Ocean Light and it could be a cool crossover to check in on where the OG peeps are. Just a thought! Hope you enjoy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 2, 2023
Read this review on Fresh Fiction
Nalini Singh returns to the Psy-Changeling world with a mesmerizing story between a low gradient Psy and a StoneWater bear shifter.
If you have been reading the Psy-Changeling series from the beginning like me, then you may know how far this world has come. Initially starting out with just feline shifters and Psy characters, Singh has since expanded her world by introducing the StoneWater bear shifters. My favorite pairings are usually when she does a Psy and a shifter pairing, so RESONANCE SURGE was definitely right up my alley. If you like slow-burning, passionate romance, then you’re bound to enjoy Singh’s writing style with this latest installment to the series.
I’m really impressed with the way Singh is able to create unlimited stories in this series. The world is constantly changing and evolving, so there are always more new characters to enjoy. Even if you’re not interested in the characters, the ever-evolving world politics makes each book in this series a must-read.
I can’t recommend this series enough if you enjoy paranormal romance with a unique twist. Nalini Singh definitely delivers a compelling, thrilling romance with RESONANCE SURGE.
Nalini Singh returns to the Psy-Changeling world with a mesmerizing story between a low gradient Psy and a StoneWater bear shifter.
If you have been reading the Psy-Changeling series from the beginning like me, then you may know how far this world has come. Initially starting out with just feline shifters and Psy characters, Singh has since expanded her world by introducing the StoneWater bear shifters. My favorite pairings are usually when she does a Psy and a shifter pairing, so RESONANCE SURGE was definitely right up my alley. If you like slow-burning, passionate romance, then you’re bound to enjoy Singh’s writing style with this latest installment to the series.
I’m really impressed with the way Singh is able to create unlimited stories in this series. The world is constantly changing and evolving, so there are always more new characters to enjoy. Even if you’re not interested in the characters, the ever-evolving world politics makes each book in this series a must-read.
I can’t recommend this series enough if you enjoy paranormal romance with a unique twist. Nalini Singh definitely delivers a compelling, thrilling romance with RESONANCE SURGE.
July 27, 2023
3.5
Entretenido 🐻.
Una relación romántica tranquila con el sentimiento de suceder poco a poco aunque es cercano a instant-love. Es lindo y como siempre triste por los pasados tormentosos de los psy. Es un libro entretenido, y se apoya de los mismos tropos de siempre de la serie: (1) Psicópatas crueles que arruinan la vida de uno de nuestros protagonistas; (2) Esperanza que surge solo cuando se introduce el interés amoroso. No es nuevo pero es la formula que nos atrapa y sigue gustando, pero...
▪️- El libro es un 98% sobre la relación con el oso dominante (Yakov) y la superación del pasado de la psy Theo (protagonista), solo el 2% te da una actualización mediocre de la trama principal de la serie. La caída de la Psy-Net. Es molesto porque se siente como un libro complemento de la serie, sin darnos mas del problema que viven los personajes de este mundo.
▪️- La introducción de bonitas escenas de Arwen y Pavel, un psy E & su Oso; siendo solo momentos dulces y randoms de personajes, que bien podrían quedar en una historia corta para mayor disfrute, debes de meterlos en la trama central del libro y cortarte una escena.
Lo que me gusto
🐻- Yakov, oso cambiante dominante y uno de los protagonistas. Es un personaje que cuida a las personas, y algo que no se vio en Valentín, el Alfa de los Osos, este chico si respeta los limites sin abrumar a su pareja, pero sin dejar de dar el apoyo que tanto necesita un psy dañado por el Silencio.
♊- La presentación de Theo Marshall, porque así tenemos mas de Pax Marshall, su gemelo inestable que ya fue introducido en libros posteriores, cuya historia, si dio avances a la serie.
📚- Siguiendo el punto anterior, el capitulo final nos dan guiños que el libro siguiente puede ser de Pax (cruzando los dedos), y deseo mucho (realmente mucho) que tengamos avance en la historia principal.
Note: Tristemente me decepciono pues le tenia buenas expectativas
Entretenido 🐻.
Una relación romántica tranquila con el sentimiento de suceder poco a poco aunque es cercano a instant-love. Es lindo y como siempre triste por los pasados tormentosos de los psy. Es un libro entretenido, y se apoya de los mismos tropos de siempre de la serie: (1) Psicópatas crueles que arruinan la vida de uno de nuestros protagonistas; (2) Esperanza que surge solo cuando se introduce el interés amoroso. No es nuevo pero es la formula que nos atrapa y sigue gustando, pero...
▪️- El libro es un 98% sobre la relación con el oso dominante (Yakov) y la superación del pasado de la psy Theo (protagonista), solo el 2% te da una actualización mediocre de la trama principal de la serie. La caída de la Psy-Net. Es molesto porque se siente como un libro complemento de la serie, sin darnos mas del problema que viven los personajes de este mundo.
▪️- La introducción de bonitas escenas de Arwen y Pavel, un psy E & su Oso; siendo solo momentos dulces y randoms de personajes, que bien podrían quedar en una historia corta para mayor disfrute, debes de meterlos en la trama central del libro y cortarte una escena.
Lo que me gusto
🐻- Yakov, oso cambiante dominante y uno de los protagonistas. Es un personaje que cuida a las personas, y algo que no se vio en Valentín, el Alfa de los Osos, este chico si respeta los limites sin abrumar a su pareja, pero sin dejar de dar el apoyo que tanto necesita un psy dañado por el Silencio.
♊- La presentación de Theo Marshall, porque así tenemos mas de Pax Marshall, su gemelo inestable que ya fue introducido en libros posteriores, cuya historia, si dio avances a la serie.
📚- Siguiendo el punto anterior, el capitulo final nos dan guiños que el libro siguiente puede ser de Pax (cruzando los dedos), y deseo mucho (realmente mucho) que tengamos avance en la historia principal.
Note: Tristemente me decepciono pues le tenia buenas expectativas
August 16, 2023
An okay read, and bears are cute, but … nothing new. Same old, same old. Grim and dark. Under Silence, evil Psy Councilor and evil Psy doctors visited horrors upon children, who then as adults must come to terms with the torturous abuse. I think Singh must have no sensitivity, because she must needs use a sledgehammer on children to bring about character. Meanwhile, Scarab is still a problem (ongoing for numerous books) and the Psy Net is still in terrible condition, as it has been across the series. Twins Pax and Theo / Pavel and Yakov have special psychic abilities in this book, as we’ve seen with twins from the third or fourth book, with Ashaya and Amara. And the twin Net. So, nothing new here. Also, all the old letters between Hien and her brother felt confusing, irrelevant and boring.
March 1, 2023
Looking forward to this.
I love Nalini singh psy series to heart. But for last few years her stories has been just okay. Thought sliver night silence and bear pack was great. What I really want to read is story of Amara. She is a psychopath. And I have always wandered how she will write her. Please someone start a petition or something and let nalini know that we are so okay with the old characters story world. Kit, pax and so many other characters who deserve their own story.
And again Amara story🙏🙏😁😁
I love Nalini singh psy series to heart. But for last few years her stories has been just okay. Thought sliver night silence and bear pack was great. What I really want to read is story of Amara. She is a psychopath. And I have always wandered how she will write her. Please someone start a petition or something and let nalini know that we are so okay with the old characters story world. Kit, pax and so many other characters who deserve their own story.
And again Amara story🙏🙏😁😁
July 19, 2023
I didn't want to do this, sigh
It pains me to write this less than glowing review because I love, love, love Nalini Singh and the psy/changeling series is my absolute favorite, but this was not her best. It had too many plot lines going at once that felt disjointed and not developed strongly. It was a murder mystery (and not a good one, so sorry Nalini. The killer was obvious), self discovery/forgiveness journey, 2 love stories, as well as the continuing issues with the psy. All of it felt rushed. I write this hoping the next one is better.
It pains me to write this less than glowing review because I love, love, love Nalini Singh and the psy/changeling series is my absolute favorite, but this was not her best. It had too many plot lines going at once that felt disjointed and not developed strongly. It was a murder mystery (and not a good one, so sorry Nalini. The killer was obvious), self discovery/forgiveness journey, 2 love stories, as well as the continuing issues with the psy. All of it felt rushed. I write this hoping the next one is better.
July 18, 2023
The new Psy-Changeling book is always the highlight of my summer and Resonance Surge was no exception! First, BEARS! We are back in the Stonewater Den for Yakov's story. Next, we get insight into a Psy family with a terrible history. If you read the previous books, you are aware of the monster that was Councilor Marshall Hyde. Well, now we have his granddaughter, Theo. As a gradient 2.7, she was a shame to the family and treated horribly. Now that her twin brother, Pax, has taken over the family, she is helping him clean up grandfather's messes. Unfortunately for her, this is bringing up some unexpected memories.I adore the bears. They are cuddly and funny and just entertaining! It's the perfect yin to the Psy yang. Theo is interesting because she never was fully Silent. But, her emotional and physical abuse is profound, so she still has some traits of a cold, post silence Psy. Yakov's great grandfather was a Psy foreseer and Yakov has a bit of his talent. He has been dreaming of Theo since he was a teen, but his more recent dreams are of her violent, bloody death. As they work to unravel the horrific history of the "rehabilitation clinics" run by Theo's grandfather, they build a bond. Theo never feels deserving of affection, but that never stops a bear! I think that is why the bear/psy pairing works so well for me!
We continue the plot of "the watcher" and some of other overarching subplots (the island in the PsyNet for example) and I just cannot get enough of this world!
POV: 3rd
Tears: no
Trope: fated mates, dysfunctional family
Triggers:
Series/Standalone: series
Cliffhanger:
HEA:
The Dark series by Christine Feehan, the Black Dagger Brotherhood from JR Ward, or other epic paranormal romance series...then you will probably like Resonance Surge!
Resonance Surge
See full review on The Book DiscipleJuly 29, 2023
You just have to love them Bears.
Theo is a twin, a mirror twin, meaning there is an unbreakable bond between her and her brother, he is Pax Marshall one of the most dangerous pay on the planet. But, Theo is different, where Pax is a 9 on the gradient she is only a mere 2.7 and anything below 2 is considered useless. So, Theo has spent her life knowing the only reason she has been kept alive is because Pax would not survive her death. The twins were separated at the age of seven, even blocked from communicating on the psychic net. Her grandfather had control of her upbringing and he was extremely abusive leaving Theo with physical and mental scars, she was also made to carry out tasks for her grandfather which have left her hating herself and what she did to survive. Yakov Stepyrev is also a twin, his brother is Pavel and his lover is Arden Mercant. Yakov has a touch of foresight from his great grandfather (who was an F psy) and he has been having visions of Theo since he was sixteen and has always known she is his mate. But lately the visions have changed and now every night he sees her die, her blood everywhere. When Theo arrives in Russia to look into a centre used to house reconditioned (brainwashed) psy Yakov is assigned to accompany her. He is at once elated and at the same time terrified as it means his vision is coming close to happening, but Theo is just revelling in the pleasure that can be found in the company of a bear shifter, the most playful, loving and loyal of the shifters.......Theo is falling and falling hard and she doesn't care.
Theo is a twin, a mirror twin, meaning there is an unbreakable bond between her and her brother, he is Pax Marshall one of the most dangerous pay on the planet. But, Theo is different, where Pax is a 9 on the gradient she is only a mere 2.7 and anything below 2 is considered useless. So, Theo has spent her life knowing the only reason she has been kept alive is because Pax would not survive her death. The twins were separated at the age of seven, even blocked from communicating on the psychic net. Her grandfather had control of her upbringing and he was extremely abusive leaving Theo with physical and mental scars, she was also made to carry out tasks for her grandfather which have left her hating herself and what she did to survive. Yakov Stepyrev is also a twin, his brother is Pavel and his lover is Arden Mercant. Yakov has a touch of foresight from his great grandfather (who was an F psy) and he has been having visions of Theo since he was sixteen and has always known she is his mate. But lately the visions have changed and now every night he sees her die, her blood everywhere. When Theo arrives in Russia to look into a centre used to house reconditioned (brainwashed) psy Yakov is assigned to accompany her. He is at once elated and at the same time terrified as it means his vision is coming close to happening, but Theo is just revelling in the pleasure that can be found in the company of a bear shifter, the most playful, loving and loyal of the shifters.......Theo is falling and falling hard and she doesn't care.
August 11, 2023
3,5⭐️
Obviamente no ha sido el mejor de la saga, pero yo lo he disfrutado mucho, que queréis que os diga.
Muy en la linea de los anteriores y de la saga en general, siempre es un acierto para mi 🥰
Obviamente no ha sido el mejor de la saga, pero yo lo he disfrutado mucho, que queréis que os diga.
Muy en la linea de los anteriores y de la saga en general, siempre es un acierto para mi 🥰
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