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Wingless #1
Wingless
How do you learn to love death when you’re so afraid of it?
What if the one person you love the most is taken away from you? What would it take to move on? Who would you run to? And what would it take to feel alive again?
Eve Cardwell has lost everything: her brother Marcus, her sense of security and her ability to believe that life is worth living. Another day drinking in the woods should be no different than any other day.
But, it turns out living life dangerously can be just that. And she should be dead.
He saves her. Saves her from herself, from everything she is trying to run away from. She will learn to feel again, even if it’s the last thing she ever wants to do.
How do you put the pieces back together? Would you run to the one person you should be running away from?
What if the one person you love the most is taken away from you? What would it take to move on? Who would you run to? And what would it take to feel alive again?
Eve Cardwell has lost everything: her brother Marcus, her sense of security and her ability to believe that life is worth living. Another day drinking in the woods should be no different than any other day.
But, it turns out living life dangerously can be just that. And she should be dead.
He saves her. Saves her from herself, from everything she is trying to run away from. She will learn to feel again, even if it’s the last thing she ever wants to do.
How do you put the pieces back together? Would you run to the one person you should be running away from?
554 pages, Paperback
First published November 10, 2009
3 people are currently reading
489 people want to read
About the author
Holly Hood
47 books360 followersHolly Hood is a prolific romance author who specializes in crafting stories filled with dysfunctional characters, layered drama, and small-town secrets. From paranormal romance to dark mystery suspense, her work fearlessly explores love triangles, supernatural connections, and the complex dynamics of family drama.
Born and raised in Toledo, Ohio, and now residing in Sylvania, Holly began writing as a child to navigate a difficult home life. What started as an emotional outlet through diaries, journals, and play scripts evolved into a passion for storytelling that allows readers to experience raw emotions that might make them "want to punch someone in the face or cry."
With nearly 30 published books to her name, Holly has captivated readers with popular titles including The Ink series, Run, Anonymous, Perfectly Hopeless, Sad Pancakes, Castles, Neighbor, and Even Wilder. Her writing stands out for its unexpected twists, touches of humor and sarcasm, and refreshingly non-traditional endings—she's not afraid to kill a character when the story demands it.
When not writing, Holly embraces her creative spirit through various art forms including drawing, clay work, crochet, painting, and 3D printing. She also enjoys cooking, baking, reality television, and music.
Holly's newest project, The Serpent Series, launches with "When Serpent Sleeps," available on Amazon. Connect with her on TikTok @readhollyhood or Facebook @authorhollyhood to follow her writing journey.
Born and raised in Toledo, Ohio, and now residing in Sylvania, Holly began writing as a child to navigate a difficult home life. What started as an emotional outlet through diaries, journals, and play scripts evolved into a passion for storytelling that allows readers to experience raw emotions that might make them "want to punch someone in the face or cry."
With nearly 30 published books to her name, Holly has captivated readers with popular titles including The Ink series, Run, Anonymous, Perfectly Hopeless, Sad Pancakes, Castles, Neighbor, and Even Wilder. Her writing stands out for its unexpected twists, touches of humor and sarcasm, and refreshingly non-traditional endings—she's not afraid to kill a character when the story demands it.
When not writing, Holly embraces her creative spirit through various art forms including drawing, clay work, crochet, painting, and 3D printing. She also enjoys cooking, baking, reality television, and music.
Holly's newest project, The Serpent Series, launches with "When Serpent Sleeps," available on Amazon. Connect with her on TikTok @readhollyhood or Facebook @authorhollyhood to follow her writing journey.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
May 8, 2011
At it's most basic this is a love story. A girl grieving for the loss of her brother meets a boy and they fall in love.
Except that the boy is not quite all he seems! Thus begins the story of a relationship that seems doomed from the start. Or is it? Via a few ups and downs we follow their adventures trying to make a life for themselves.
I really enjoyed this. I found it really easy to picture the characters, even shedding a tear or two in places. The story was well paced and romped along, never flagging. I think I will enjoy reading the others in this series to find out what lies ahead for the characters. Good work!
Except that the boy is not quite all he seems! Thus begins the story of a relationship that seems doomed from the start. Or is it? Via a few ups and downs we follow their adventures trying to make a life for themselves.
I really enjoyed this. I found it really easy to picture the characters, even shedding a tear or two in places. The story was well paced and romped along, never flagging. I think I will enjoy reading the others in this series to find out what lies ahead for the characters. Good work!
December 12, 2013
this was not my cup of tea, it was strange and did not appeal to me . I initially liked the plot and the writer's prose but otherwise nothing worked for me .It had had such serious topics and tried to remain simplistic which really was not possible. The grammar could use work , that's saying something because I barely notice the grammar in my novels. Idk this just irritated me and it was not to my liking. Cudos to the writer for trying and I hope she improves.
April 10, 2014
Please Note: Read and reviewed in June, 2011. Updating formatting and adding disclosure that I received a free galley from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
About the Book: Eve is a willful and independent 18-year-old. One of her brothers, Marcus, the one she had felt the closest to, was murdered during a robbery four years ago; she has taken to hiding out in the woods with her best friend Vanessa and drinking in order to numb the pain. One day, while walking home, she falls into a stream and is pulled out by a tall, powerfully built young man, who introduces himself as Ace. Ace turns out to be a nickname (his given name is Evan); he is 22. Eve and Evan connect immediately and begin to see each other; much to the annoyance of Eve’s other brother, Gray. In a short time, against her family’s wishes, Eve moves in with Evan.
But Evan is not what he seems; his destiny is one of power and awesome responsibility, but also of devastating consequences to those around him. His people have rules and regulations by which they live; they don’t approve of relationships unless the couple is going to stay together – there is no option. Can the love Eve and Evan feel for each other keep them steady through the trials of Eve’s adjustments to this life? Can Evan maintain his love for Eve against her rages and moods?
My Thoughts: Overall I rather liked the story – unlike many stories with a basis of romance, the couple doesn’t spend the whole book hating each other and fighting over stupid things. It is true that Eve is remarkably moody, tending to swing into blind rages, screaming fits, and extreme melancholy under the slightest provocation, but then again, she is only 18. Eve also is often inconsistent – stating that people need to be nice to one another and treat one another with respect, and then completely ignoring her family’s wishes, refusing to even discuss certain situations with them, and basically leaving them cold. Apparently there are issues with her family that she has never resolved, which comes out later in the story, but this isn’t addressed early on where it should be, so Eve simply looks hypocritical, amoral, and spoiled.
One thing I would like to address are the many errors, typos, usage mistakes and punctuation errors in the ebook that I downloaded from Smashwords. I discussed with the author whether this was a final draft, ready for publication, or a proof being provided for reviewers to read. She indicated that she had the book edited some time back and thought perhaps I had downloaded the wrong file, but as it turns out it is entirely possible that she inadvertently uploaded the wrong version. So, please, don’t let those sorts of things count against the story; give her a chance to rectify the problem.
Fans of paranormal romances should enjoy this story.
About the Book: Eve is a willful and independent 18-year-old. One of her brothers, Marcus, the one she had felt the closest to, was murdered during a robbery four years ago; she has taken to hiding out in the woods with her best friend Vanessa and drinking in order to numb the pain. One day, while walking home, she falls into a stream and is pulled out by a tall, powerfully built young man, who introduces himself as Ace. Ace turns out to be a nickname (his given name is Evan); he is 22. Eve and Evan connect immediately and begin to see each other; much to the annoyance of Eve’s other brother, Gray. In a short time, against her family’s wishes, Eve moves in with Evan.
But Evan is not what he seems; his destiny is one of power and awesome responsibility, but also of devastating consequences to those around him. His people have rules and regulations by which they live; they don’t approve of relationships unless the couple is going to stay together – there is no option. Can the love Eve and Evan feel for each other keep them steady through the trials of Eve’s adjustments to this life? Can Evan maintain his love for Eve against her rages and moods?
My Thoughts: Overall I rather liked the story – unlike many stories with a basis of romance, the couple doesn’t spend the whole book hating each other and fighting over stupid things. It is true that Eve is remarkably moody, tending to swing into blind rages, screaming fits, and extreme melancholy under the slightest provocation, but then again, she is only 18. Eve also is often inconsistent – stating that people need to be nice to one another and treat one another with respect, and then completely ignoring her family’s wishes, refusing to even discuss certain situations with them, and basically leaving them cold. Apparently there are issues with her family that she has never resolved, which comes out later in the story, but this isn’t addressed early on where it should be, so Eve simply looks hypocritical, amoral, and spoiled.
One thing I would like to address are the many errors, typos, usage mistakes and punctuation errors in the ebook that I downloaded from Smashwords. I discussed with the author whether this was a final draft, ready for publication, or a proof being provided for reviewers to read. She indicated that she had the book edited some time back and thought perhaps I had downloaded the wrong file, but as it turns out it is entirely possible that she inadvertently uploaded the wrong version. So, please, don’t let those sorts of things count against the story; give her a chance to rectify the problem.
Fans of paranormal romances should enjoy this story.
May 31, 2011
Cover: A
I like this cover. The original cover was not as appealing. This one screams, it was a dark & scary night... I'm not clear on why the author changed it, but I think it was a good decision.
Story: C
The concept for this book: A material. The delivery brought it down to a C. It is a great concept. As far as I know, 100% original; but execution matters. I enjoyed the book, but at times I struggled to follow it. I also thought the two main characters (Eve and Evan)spent quite a bit of time YELLING! and flipped from being loving, content, & happy to violent on a dime. I like dark stories. I've even written a few. This one just felt inconsistent. I'm happy, I'll beat the crap out of you, I'm totally content...all in the time span of thirty seconds. This book could easily be tightened up, smoothed out & re-released for a much higher grade.
Overall C
I know, the cover is an A, which should leave the overall grade a B- at the lowest.I just couldn't bring myself to go all the way to a B due to a great photo. I would love to revisit this book in the future if Ms. Hood makes revisions. It is a YA series, and I'd love to hear the opinion of some other YA readers too. Maybe YA just isn't my thing?
If you're looking for a dark story with a unique twist you can find Wingless on Amazon.com for $0.99. At that price, you can read it, decide if I'm spot on (or way off), and send me a love/hate note. I'll be waiting...
I like this cover. The original cover was not as appealing. This one screams, it was a dark & scary night... I'm not clear on why the author changed it, but I think it was a good decision.
Story: C
The concept for this book: A material. The delivery brought it down to a C. It is a great concept. As far as I know, 100% original; but execution matters. I enjoyed the book, but at times I struggled to follow it. I also thought the two main characters (Eve and Evan)spent quite a bit of time YELLING! and flipped from being loving, content, & happy to violent on a dime. I like dark stories. I've even written a few. This one just felt inconsistent. I'm happy, I'll beat the crap out of you, I'm totally content...all in the time span of thirty seconds. This book could easily be tightened up, smoothed out & re-released for a much higher grade.
Overall C
I know, the cover is an A, which should leave the overall grade a B- at the lowest.I just couldn't bring myself to go all the way to a B due to a great photo. I would love to revisit this book in the future if Ms. Hood makes revisions. It is a YA series, and I'd love to hear the opinion of some other YA readers too. Maybe YA just isn't my thing?
If you're looking for a dark story with a unique twist you can find Wingless on Amazon.com for $0.99. At that price, you can read it, decide if I'm spot on (or way off), and send me a love/hate note. I'll be waiting...
December 11, 2013
I was given this book for an honest review.
3.5 Stars
Eve is a young girl who lost her brother and her sense of security with him. She spends her days in the woods with her best friend Vanessa drinking. This is where Eve meets Ace (Evan). She is walking home one day and falls in a stream and he just appears and saves her. From the moment Eve and Evan meet he is very secretive about his family. Even without him opening up about himself they just have this crazy chemistry immediately and start hanging out. From this point they start to grow really close and she moves in with him and from this point things really start getting interesting.
When I fist started reading this book I was really questioning if I was going to like it or even finish it. To me the first few chapters were a little rushed and the relationship grew a little to quickly. From reading to description of the book when know this was going to be a paranormal romance. When you start to get to know Evan and his family a little I really did think they were part of the mob. Then once Eve and Evan are moved in together you get the paranormal bombshell dropped on you. I am usually really good about guessing ahead about what is going on but crap I didn't not see that one coming.
All together this book was actually pretty good but really strange at times. After about 5 chapters in it had me hooked to where I did finish it in one setting. I will be definitely be reading the rest of this series.
3.5 Stars
Eve is a young girl who lost her brother and her sense of security with him. She spends her days in the woods with her best friend Vanessa drinking. This is where Eve meets Ace (Evan). She is walking home one day and falls in a stream and he just appears and saves her. From the moment Eve and Evan meet he is very secretive about his family. Even without him opening up about himself they just have this crazy chemistry immediately and start hanging out. From this point they start to grow really close and she moves in with him and from this point things really start getting interesting.
When I fist started reading this book I was really questioning if I was going to like it or even finish it. To me the first few chapters were a little rushed and the relationship grew a little to quickly. From reading to description of the book when know this was going to be a paranormal romance. When you start to get to know Evan and his family a little I really did think they were part of the mob. Then once Eve and Evan are moved in together you get the paranormal bombshell dropped on you. I am usually really good about guessing ahead about what is going on but crap I didn't not see that one coming.
All together this book was actually pretty good but really strange at times. After about 5 chapters in it had me hooked to where I did finish it in one setting. I will be definitely be reading the rest of this series.
December 13, 2013
Thank you Holly Hood for the honour of reading and reviewing the ARC of the first book of your series Wingless.
I am not sure what I was expecting but what I read was not it.
I believe I have found another series to love and a reapers series at that.
Like Eve I know what it feels like to lose someone you love. It changes you and it’s hard to go on living. Each one of us needs to find their way to deal with death and life after it.
Eve is on a destructive route when Ace (Evan) crosses her path and saves her.
Their lives changes as they quickly become each others soul mates, and lovers. Eve finds her live change so much by the fact that she has fallen into a world she has difficultly believing it exists. She has fallen for a Reaper of Death.
Holly Hood captures the emotions of Eve and her family’s loss well. The beginning of the story is slightly depressing and then again in the middle. There is change in Eve throughout the story, she fears death and wonders if death terminates a relationship permanently, she often questions Evan who has or cannot give her answers.
Even through her fears Eve finds that she feels safe and loved with Evan.
The ending is very much a cliff hanger leaving me wanting to find out what is really happening.
Will Evan save Eve again? What does it really mean to be in love with a Reaper of Death?
October 13, 2011
OMG!!!!!!! WHAT A STORY! This book was so very different and bizarre all at the same time. I've never read a story like this one before. A young girls life, in love with a hitman??? If a hitman can be so young? A lot of life lessons about living, life and the lack there of. How to appreciate family and panic when something happens to the ones you love. Very emotional life and death expereinces. Family and best friends mean so much to us all. What would you be willing to live without to be with the one you loved? Would you want to know when you were going to die? What if the person you loved was a mofia monster? Such a twisted look at young life. I LOVE IT! Amazing writing!!! Such a WOW book!! Hated to see book 1 end and cannot wait to see book 2!!!
highly.....highly......highly recommend! Nothing short of absolutely amazing!
Characters you will love to shake, shoot, and hug. Overwhelming & twisted all at the same time. A family that really puts the disfunction in life. sacrifices are only the beginning. I give it a MILLION STARS!!!!!!! lol
highly.....highly......highly recommend! Nothing short of absolutely amazing!
Characters you will love to shake, shoot, and hug. Overwhelming & twisted all at the same time. A family that really puts the disfunction in life. sacrifices are only the beginning. I give it a MILLION STARS!!!!!!! lol
August 30, 2013
WOW is all I can say! At first I kind of struggled getting into the book because it seemed to moving at such a fast pace some things were not making sense to me. Then it was basically like a slap in the face and everything made sense. This book was really good! I was excited to receive a copy from Holly in exchange for a review and I am glad I did! Eve is a girl who is really confused and torn up over the loss of her brother who was her best friend. She finds solace in drinking and just hanging out with her other friend Vanessa! Along comes Evan and really turns her world upside down. Things move fast for them but once you hit the punchline to the story, you will see why they move along so fast! I could not put this book down and read it within a few hours. I had to see what was going to happen for Eve and Evan. Now I cannot wait to start book 2, Polar, to see where the story picks up! Amazing job :)
June 24, 2011
this story makes me think im on a boat in the middle of the sea and there is hell all around. its storming and the boat is rocking and im hanging on for dear life.
i loved the story in the beginning but in the middle my mind started to drift off and then at the end my heart was pulled back in, im so confused at what just happened.
Hood as a way of playing with your emotions, first you like someone, then your so addicted you think you're going to go crazy, your addiction turns into hatred, and then into sadness and it keep cycling.
i liked it but i feel like theres to many details missing in the first story, im going to have to read the 2nd one to find out more.
i loved the story in the beginning but in the middle my mind started to drift off and then at the end my heart was pulled back in, im so confused at what just happened.
Hood as a way of playing with your emotions, first you like someone, then your so addicted you think you're going to go crazy, your addiction turns into hatred, and then into sadness and it keep cycling.
i liked it but i feel like theres to many details missing in the first story, im going to have to read the 2nd one to find out more.
December 11, 2013
I just finished the book and can't find the word to describe how I'm feeling at this moment. I found Eve's character to be dark and dismal. I understand she is young and doesn't know how to deal with deaths aftermath. Meeting Evan in my opinion is a wake up call l. When you learn who and what Evan really is a whole new understanding is awakened. The truth has me reeling with emotions that are confusing and leaves a darkness in the pit of my stomach. With this said I find myself drawn into their story deeper and can't wait to read the next book.
December 12, 2011
My 16 year-old daughter read Wingless and here is her review: "You’ll be engrossed in it from beginning to end. There are characteristics from each character that you can relate to, which makes the read even more enjoyable. The outcome of the book surprises you and makes you want to know what happens next. Overall a great read."
December 10, 2013
This story through me for a loop at times. I liked that the cover up for what the guys were, would be basically the same as the mafia. I did not expect to like the story as much as I did. The only thing that I did not like all that much was the fact that the main character was very whiny and moody. Overall I would continue to read the series and more books from Holly Hood.
May 6, 2011
I loved it!! I can't wait to read more! Once I started I didn't want to stop, the characters are amazing and they storyline so perfect!! Eve and Evan are just such strong, real, characters. Realting to Eve is so easy and their love gives you something to wish for :)
September 9, 2013
Not at all what I expected this book to be. Absolutely loved it.
December 31, 2019
personally, for this being part 1 of a series I felt the characters and the storyline moved a tad too fast without any real or substantial character development. that being said, I did enjoy the book immensely. I think the plot and her concept behind the reapers so far are unique and that there are some very serious and almost poetic lessons to be learned from Eve during her development is the story, plus the ending of book 1 has definitely kept me in suspense for the next novel in the series. I do, however, hope the next books bring with them some solidarity and substantial character/plot development and a better method of delivery that the 1st one is lacking in. such a wonderful and unique story definitely deserves it.
August 15, 2012
WOW! I wasn’t expecting to like this book as much as I did. It was different than what I’ve read before for sure. I will say this, when I learned what Evan’s true “job” is, I was a bit... well, let’s just say I wasn’t expecting it to be THAT; and I tried putting myself in Eve’s shoes/place on how I would feel about Evan after learning that truth, and I don’t think I would have been able to be as strong as she was throughout the story – I think I would have left him, to be honest with you, but then again, I can’t truly, truly say if that may have been the case if it truly had happened to me; as we all say things in the moment and then when a situation presents itself, we act in the total opposite of what we “said we’d do” or “thought we’d do”; so I give Eve bonus points for sticking around.
I enjoyed reading this book so much! I did get SO annoyed at Kenny throughout the entire book (well, ALMOST) the entire book, that had I been reading a paperback, I think I would have hurled it at the wall in annoyance! LOL. From that first time Eve “sees” his treatment of Ari on the first night she met Evan’s dad, I just decided to dislike him; and maybe some of you will feel the same, some will completely disagree with me. And I think that’s where I started thinking If I had been Eve I don’t think I would have been able to stick around, even if I loved, or thought I loved Evan. But anyway, let’s continue. I won’t give a long summary because you all can read that yourselves in the synopsis and description of the book. I do want to share this quote I liked a lot, from Eve:
“My fear in life, that was simple – I feared that I would die before I lived.” . . .”I feared so much I was afraid to live right. I feared that saying, ‘God has a plan for everyone’ was a curse. I thought this meant once you found out what your meaning was, you would die. Wouldn’t that only make sense? And if that were the case, the easy way to keep on living would be to just not do anything in life.”
And this last one, short and simple and touching (to me at least): “Sometimes people lived a short time to help others live.” It may seem silly, but I teared up at this point, and maybe it had to do with the story as it led up to that point in the book. The entire last two chapters – I loved every word. It seemed as if Eve was kinda pouring her heart out and telling us her philosophy of life. The ending… well a bit of a cliffhanger, but I can’t wait to read the next! Hope you readers out there give this book a go! =)
I enjoyed reading this book so much! I did get SO annoyed at Kenny throughout the entire book (well, ALMOST) the entire book, that had I been reading a paperback, I think I would have hurled it at the wall in annoyance! LOL. From that first time Eve “sees” his treatment of Ari on the first night she met Evan’s dad, I just decided to dislike him; and maybe some of you will feel the same, some will completely disagree with me. And I think that’s where I started thinking If I had been Eve I don’t think I would have been able to stick around, even if I loved, or thought I loved Evan. But anyway, let’s continue. I won’t give a long summary because you all can read that yourselves in the synopsis and description of the book. I do want to share this quote I liked a lot, from Eve:
“My fear in life, that was simple – I feared that I would die before I lived.” . . .”I feared so much I was afraid to live right. I feared that saying, ‘God has a plan for everyone’ was a curse. I thought this meant once you found out what your meaning was, you would die. Wouldn’t that only make sense? And if that were the case, the easy way to keep on living would be to just not do anything in life.”
And this last one, short and simple and touching (to me at least): “Sometimes people lived a short time to help others live.” It may seem silly, but I teared up at this point, and maybe it had to do with the story as it led up to that point in the book. The entire last two chapters – I loved every word. It seemed as if Eve was kinda pouring her heart out and telling us her philosophy of life. The ending… well a bit of a cliffhanger, but I can’t wait to read the next! Hope you readers out there give this book a go! =)
September 20, 2013
Wingless: misery's company by Holly Hood
Eve Cardwell, is willful and fiercely independent, she has to be, she lost her everything; her brother Marcus. He was her sense of security and her ability to believe that life is worth living. You know, that one person in the world that gets you, forgives you, and loves you unconditionally.
Along comes Evan, saving her from herself and from everything she is trying to run away from.
The good:
I actually liked the "death as mob" theme. Great idea. I think overall this book was full of a great deal of really good ideas. Ms. Hood is an out of the box writer with a real talent of keeping her creativity relatable; as in there is something in Eve that we all understand. There is something about Evan's struggle that we can all relate too, yet he invites Eve and us into his dangerous and new world.
Evan is really hot.
Fav line:
"...My life lesson was simple. Believe with your heart, fear is real, and no one ever is going to make it out by the skin of their teeth. Death may be scary, but there was one thing that death gave us, and that was blindness to not see it coming until it was too late. And now I believed in everything that I was told I was wrong to believe..."
The bad:
Eve was really depressing and whiny. She comes from a rich family with parents who love her and two perfectly good siblings who want the best for her; I generally hate people like Eve who have to make up drama because they don't really have any. Yes, she lost her brother, but who hasn't lost someone? And, that is one bad thing that happened to her compared to people who persevere through hardship with far less support and resources than what she has to work with.
I believe that Ms. Hood meant to make the character "unlikeable," so I continued to read and met Evan who seemed awesome, I kept wondering why was he dating this dark and annoying whiny 'blah' of a girl.
Then the arguing started, Eve and Evan spent quite a bit of time YELLING! at each other, flip-flopping from happy to violent way too often; to much drama for me. I was rolling my eyes and thinking, "Just leave each other alone."
Overall:
This was an okay read. I wasn't blown away, but I will continue to read Ms. Hood's work because I think she is a really talented author with a bright future. Meet Holly Hood
Eve Cardwell, is willful and fiercely independent, she has to be, she lost her everything; her brother Marcus. He was her sense of security and her ability to believe that life is worth living. You know, that one person in the world that gets you, forgives you, and loves you unconditionally.
Along comes Evan, saving her from herself and from everything she is trying to run away from.
The good:
I actually liked the "death as mob" theme. Great idea. I think overall this book was full of a great deal of really good ideas. Ms. Hood is an out of the box writer with a real talent of keeping her creativity relatable; as in there is something in Eve that we all understand. There is something about Evan's struggle that we can all relate too, yet he invites Eve and us into his dangerous and new world.
Evan is really hot.
Fav line:
"...My life lesson was simple. Believe with your heart, fear is real, and no one ever is going to make it out by the skin of their teeth. Death may be scary, but there was one thing that death gave us, and that was blindness to not see it coming until it was too late. And now I believed in everything that I was told I was wrong to believe..."
The bad:
Eve was really depressing and whiny. She comes from a rich family with parents who love her and two perfectly good siblings who want the best for her; I generally hate people like Eve who have to make up drama because they don't really have any. Yes, she lost her brother, but who hasn't lost someone? And, that is one bad thing that happened to her compared to people who persevere through hardship with far less support and resources than what she has to work with.
I believe that Ms. Hood meant to make the character "unlikeable," so I continued to read and met Evan who seemed awesome, I kept wondering why was he dating this dark and annoying whiny 'blah' of a girl.
Then the arguing started, Eve and Evan spent quite a bit of time YELLING! at each other, flip-flopping from happy to violent way too often; to much drama for me. I was rolling my eyes and thinking, "Just leave each other alone."
Overall:
This was an okay read. I wasn't blown away, but I will continue to read Ms. Hood's work because I think she is a really talented author with a bright future. Meet Holly Hood
December 20, 2013
I was given a copy of this book for an honest review. This is probably the hardest book I've had to review. I have really mixed emotions about this book and I want to be able to review the author fairly. Many parts of the book were just okay to me and many parts of the book I really liked.
Eve is an eighteen year old girl miserable with life she feels like she has to live up to her parents perfect life and standards and doesn't want to conform to them. Her brother is just as "perfect" and really awful to her. She has a sister but their is not too much in the book about her except how weird her brother-in-law is. She has lost her other brother the only person she was close with and understood her. She takes to going in the woods and getting drunk with her friend. That's when she meets Ace/Evan.
Ace/Evan saves Eve from the woods on one of her drunken nights and they have an immediate connection. Eve knows something is different about him but he's pretty closed off to talking about it. He comes from a mafia type family. His father adopted him and controls what he does for his "business."
There was so much going on with this book at times my head felt like it was spinning. I felt very confused many times throughout the story. I also felt there were a lot of things left unanswered. I don't get how accepting Eve was with what Evan did for a living. I'm also confused about their first sexual experience. I know she was a virgin was he too? I got the feeling he should be after the whole explanation of sex being forever. I was so confused about why her brother treated her the way he did and why her parents were so accepting of it when they were suppose to be perfect. I feel like Evan was all about Evan and I didn't feel the love he said he felt for Eve. And holy cliff hanger, it actually kind of made me mad. I'm really hoping all the unanswered questions are answered in the next book which I will definitely read. I think this could have been a great book if there wasn't so many other things going on and I really liked the paranormal element of it. I'm looking forward to what happens next.
Eve is an eighteen year old girl miserable with life she feels like she has to live up to her parents perfect life and standards and doesn't want to conform to them. Her brother is just as "perfect" and really awful to her. She has a sister but their is not too much in the book about her except how weird her brother-in-law is. She has lost her other brother the only person she was close with and understood her. She takes to going in the woods and getting drunk with her friend. That's when she meets Ace/Evan.
Ace/Evan saves Eve from the woods on one of her drunken nights and they have an immediate connection. Eve knows something is different about him but he's pretty closed off to talking about it. He comes from a mafia type family. His father adopted him and controls what he does for his "business."
There was so much going on with this book at times my head felt like it was spinning. I felt very confused many times throughout the story. I also felt there were a lot of things left unanswered. I don't get how accepting Eve was with what Evan did for a living. I'm also confused about their first sexual experience. I know she was a virgin was he too? I got the feeling he should be after the whole explanation of sex being forever. I was so confused about why her brother treated her the way he did and why her parents were so accepting of it when they were suppose to be perfect. I feel like Evan was all about Evan and I didn't feel the love he said he felt for Eve. And holy cliff hanger, it actually kind of made me mad. I'm really hoping all the unanswered questions are answered in the next book which I will definitely read. I think this could have been a great book if there wasn't so many other things going on and I really liked the paranormal element of it. I'm looking forward to what happens next.
May 21, 2011
“…My fear in life was simple – I feared that I would die before I lived. I feared that when I did die, I would have realized that all I was taught was wrong and would be out of luck. …”
“…Everything has a reaction though, so even when you think you’re not doing something, the simplest thing could be what you were meant to do. Sometimes people lived a short time to help others live. life was a crazy ride…”
“…My life lesson was simple. Believe with your heart, fear is real, and no one ever is going to make it out by the skin of their teeth. Death may be scary, but there was one thing that death gave us, and that was blindness to not see it coming until it was too late. And now I believed in everything that I was told I was wrong to believe…”
What a strange book. A story of love and a story of independence. A story of good choices and a story of bad choices. A story of loss and a story of gain.
We meet Eve, a headstrong, independent soul longing to live life on her terms. So much like the brother she lost, she longs to leave her controlling “perfect” family behind and strike out on her own. Alone in the woods after a drinking binge with her best friend, she meets Evan. Time reveals even more of the mystery that surrounds him and she is constantly thrown off balance as she traverses down a path unknown.
We follow Eve as she moves in with Evan and spends the next few months of her life learning more about herself than she ever thought possible.
I found the book difficult to follow at times. I felt I was in the middle of one conversation and the next sentence was a different conversation. I do not want to give away any of the contents but I feel this book is better suited for the older YA group than the younger set. There was a great moral aspect to the story in that we are all here for a reason, and just maybe, instead of fearing life, we need to live life. The book was a good read and I recommend it.
“…Everything has a reaction though, so even when you think you’re not doing something, the simplest thing could be what you were meant to do. Sometimes people lived a short time to help others live. life was a crazy ride…”
“…My life lesson was simple. Believe with your heart, fear is real, and no one ever is going to make it out by the skin of their teeth. Death may be scary, but there was one thing that death gave us, and that was blindness to not see it coming until it was too late. And now I believed in everything that I was told I was wrong to believe…”
What a strange book. A story of love and a story of independence. A story of good choices and a story of bad choices. A story of loss and a story of gain.
We meet Eve, a headstrong, independent soul longing to live life on her terms. So much like the brother she lost, she longs to leave her controlling “perfect” family behind and strike out on her own. Alone in the woods after a drinking binge with her best friend, she meets Evan. Time reveals even more of the mystery that surrounds him and she is constantly thrown off balance as she traverses down a path unknown.
We follow Eve as she moves in with Evan and spends the next few months of her life learning more about herself than she ever thought possible.
I found the book difficult to follow at times. I felt I was in the middle of one conversation and the next sentence was a different conversation. I do not want to give away any of the contents but I feel this book is better suited for the older YA group than the younger set. There was a great moral aspect to the story in that we are all here for a reason, and just maybe, instead of fearing life, we need to live life. The book was a good read and I recommend it.
October 3, 2012
At first I found this book quite fast paced. The narrator seemed a bit of a motormouth, wanting to yell her story rather than let us find it. There seemed to be lots of things said that weren't necessary, it needs more refinement, the narrator just seems to yammer on without getting to the point, it skirts around the issues.
About a third of the way through this book I really fell out with the narrator. She is whiny, contradictory and rather clueless. There are red flags waving, overbearing father, brother who beats up his girlfriend and verbally abuses her, you have known this guy of and on over the period of a month and you decide to move in with him at the throw of a hat? Really don't think the girl at the start would do this.
At two thirds through this book I was ready to put this book down and leave it. So you remember at the start of the story, the narrator is getting drunk in the woods to cope with the death of her brother. So I really don't understand the attitude to her uncle who is a drunk, it seems like a serious plot flaw.
I just felt that the relationship was unrealistic. The narrator at the start of this story just doesn't seem like the same girl at the end. I really don't think that she'd be in a relationship that waves so many red flags. I felt this book was a great frustration.
About a third of the way through this book I really fell out with the narrator. She is whiny, contradictory and rather clueless. There are red flags waving, overbearing father, brother who beats up his girlfriend and verbally abuses her, you have known this guy of and on over the period of a month and you decide to move in with him at the throw of a hat? Really don't think the girl at the start would do this.
At two thirds through this book I was ready to put this book down and leave it. So you remember at the start of the story, the narrator is getting drunk in the woods to cope with the death of her brother. So I really don't understand the attitude to her uncle who is a drunk, it seems like a serious plot flaw.
I just felt that the relationship was unrealistic. The narrator at the start of this story just doesn't seem like the same girl at the end. I really don't think that she'd be in a relationship that waves so many red flags. I felt this book was a great frustration.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 24, 2013
3.5 stars...First time ever reading a book in a "reaper series." Can honestly say, I may have never just ran out to pick one up so with that being said, thank you Holly Hood for providing me the ARC for my honest review in return. I am surprised to admit that I thoroughly enjoyed the whole concept of the book. I had a pretty decent picture of the characters, albeit I feel there was a lack of build-up. I also felt that there were some good "messages" that came out of the story, relative to the loss of a friend or loved one. The only negative to me was that at times it seemed as though the story moved along a little too quickly or was rushed and in a sense, I would feel a little confused as though I skipped an important line or something. I'd have to re-read that section a little slower and in turn, I would end up getting it the second time around. Overall, I can say that I am curious to see where book 2 picks up and how it ultimately ends with the last book because this one right here was definitely a CLIFFHANGER!!!!
February 9, 2014
To begin, there were a lot of grammatical errors in this book. I do recommend a strong editing to help it along. I thought Eve was a spoiled brat. She had a wealthy family and the opportunity to go to school, which she complained about. She lost a brother, in a horrible way, but so many people lose people they love and they don't complain and feel sorry for themselves like Eve does. Evan seems like a great guy with a tough job. He is just looking for someone to understand what he has to do each day and accept it. Eve seems to accept, but then they fight so much that I wonder why he keeps wanting to spend time with her. She doesn't even seem likeable.
The story is a great story. I never saw the "reaper" coming and they way it is tied into the mob is very refreshing. It could be changed around a bit to make Eve more likeable and less whiny. I hated the ending. I am a happy ending type of person, and when a book leaves me feeling sad or angry, I have a hard time "liking" it.
The story is a great story. I never saw the "reaper" coming and they way it is tied into the mob is very refreshing. It could be changed around a bit to make Eve more likeable and less whiny. I hated the ending. I am a happy ending type of person, and when a book leaves me feeling sad or angry, I have a hard time "liking" it.
December 28, 2013
I received this book for an honest review. I must admit I don't normally go for paranormal romances but this one was intriguing. Eve gets saved by Evan in the woods when she's out for a walk and from there they strike up a friendship that turns into a relationship. Eve has a lot on her plate she's still grieving for her brother and she's not getting on with her parents as they are too protective and interfering. Spending time with Evan is a breath of fresh air. But not all is how it seems, Evans family is close knit and they have a dark secret, can Eve except Evan for what he is ? Despite everything they fall for each other, but is it all to good to be true. This book takes you on highs and lows, it's a roller coaster of a story and leaves you with one hell of a cliffhanger, can't wait to read the next one.
May 21, 2011
This book had so many grammatical errors that it was very tough to read. Consistent and constant mistakes pulled me right out of the story. I don't know how many times "bare" was used instead of bear. The characters constantly yelled, screamed, or shouted at each other which was part of the telling rather than showing that this book was full of. There was a great deal of violence on the part of the main character towards the person she was supposed to love, to the point where it was abuse. The secondary characters took part in an equally toxic relationship. This is by far the worst book I have read lately. I would have stopped reading half way through, but I actually liked the "death as mob" theme. Great idea, terrible execution.
March 17, 2014
I received a free ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
OMG!! WTF!!! that was my thoughts at the ending of this book. I was pissed off, but I was able to calm down and get excited that there are multiple books in the series. I was mad only because when it comes to books, I am a total sap and like my HEA. I will be giving the second in the series a try because I want to see where the author takes everything.
I loved the idea and the story line. I have fallen in love with Eve and Evan. I did have a problem with the writing, it was a little jumpy to me. this is definitely not for the faint hearted but definitely worth reading if you like reading paranormal and are not afraid of reading a series.
Thanks to Holly J Hood and the opportunity to read and review the book!!!
OMG!! WTF!!! that was my thoughts at the ending of this book. I was pissed off, but I was able to calm down and get excited that there are multiple books in the series. I was mad only because when it comes to books, I am a total sap and like my HEA. I will be giving the second in the series a try because I want to see where the author takes everything.
I loved the idea and the story line. I have fallen in love with Eve and Evan. I did have a problem with the writing, it was a little jumpy to me. this is definitely not for the faint hearted but definitely worth reading if you like reading paranormal and are not afraid of reading a series.
Thanks to Holly J Hood and the opportunity to read and review the book!!!
December 29, 2013
Wow. Everyone fears death. Eve was alone when her brother died from a robbery. She blames her mom for sending him to work. She wanted to live free. She doesn't get along with her brother gray. She meets Evan in the woods when she fell on the lake drunk. Evan saved her. She moved in with Evan. Evan was honest with her with his Malfia lifestyle. Her best friend Vanessa dies. She is lost and is fearing death. Can Evan save her again. I'm so confuse at the end. Not sure about Evan. I need to know what happens.. Does Evan loves enough her to save her or is he his father puppet. A different kind of read that I couldn't put down.
February 12, 2014
I have to say when I started to read this book I was not sure about it. The book just seemed to be a slow and confusing at first. You have a family that was grieving but you have to continue to read to find why this family is broken. Eve is 18 and drinking. The day she goes off the the woods she meets someone who will change her life. She falls in love. I have to say the downer where he cant / marry her and doesn't want kids. He sents her and her brother on a trip and now she afraid it was her time. the question is was it her time?
April 27, 2011
First off, I want to state that this is the first book I have EVER rated 1 star. I started reading this book and was utterly repulsed by the way the main character acted. The more I read, the more I wanted to punch her!!! Seriously I HATED everything about her, and the reactions she had to most things went WAY beyond stupid. Truth be told I stopped reading this garbage a little more than mid-way through and I'm still mad at myself for reading that far!!
December 26, 2013
When I started reading, it read like a typical bad boy meets a lost girl and they fall in love story. I didn't expect the twists and surprises. What really drew me in was learning Evan's true job description, which totally through me for a loop. The cliffhanger was something I did not not see coming or expected at all. Still so many unanswered questions I'll be impatiently waiting until the next installment to find out the cliffhangers outcome.
May 31, 2011
Finished it today.
It was...something and interesting story line. some parts lagged and i personally felt there was hints of emotional black mail and that eve was quite spineless and overreacted to alot of things and then doesnt to others until later. it was a really interesting concept.
got it free on smashwords kept me reading and wanting to read the rest in the series.
It was...something and interesting story line. some parts lagged and i personally felt there was hints of emotional black mail and that eve was quite spineless and overreacted to alot of things and then doesnt to others until later. it was a really interesting concept.
got it free on smashwords kept me reading and wanting to read the rest in the series.
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