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Ravens Of Darkness #1
Illusions
An ancient cult. A supernatural addiction. A forbidden love.
Sixteen year old Evie Willow is terrified of drowning but she's even more afraid of her own feelings. When the charismatic and telepathic lifeguard, Talon Renwyck, suddenly turns his affections toward her, Evie’s ability to rein in her feelings is threatened.
Talon knows a secret which plunges Evie into the deep waters of her hidden emotions.
As she drifts away from the life she knows into Talon’s beckoning arms, Evie learns that Talon is much more than just the handsome guy she’s falling in love with. Caught in a dark and supernatural addiction and tied to a secret cult, Talon is crying out for help. Can Evie save him from himself?
Is their love the real deal or is it an illusion?
Nothing is what it seems.
Illusions is the first book in the Ravens of Darkness Series.
If you like character driven, paranormal romance sagas with supernatural elements, darkly dynamic love relationships, and a hint of magic and mystery, then you'll love the Ravens of Darkness Series.
Book Two, Reflections, is available now.
Book Three, Deceptions, will be released May 2, 2023.
Sixteen year old Evie Willow is terrified of drowning but she's even more afraid of her own feelings. When the charismatic and telepathic lifeguard, Talon Renwyck, suddenly turns his affections toward her, Evie’s ability to rein in her feelings is threatened.
Talon knows a secret which plunges Evie into the deep waters of her hidden emotions.
As she drifts away from the life she knows into Talon’s beckoning arms, Evie learns that Talon is much more than just the handsome guy she’s falling in love with. Caught in a dark and supernatural addiction and tied to a secret cult, Talon is crying out for help. Can Evie save him from himself?
Is their love the real deal or is it an illusion?
Nothing is what it seems.
Illusions is the first book in the Ravens of Darkness Series.
If you like character driven, paranormal romance sagas with supernatural elements, darkly dynamic love relationships, and a hint of magic and mystery, then you'll love the Ravens of Darkness Series.
Book Two, Reflections, is available now.
Book Three, Deceptions, will be released May 2, 2023.
- GenresFantasy
292 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 18, 2015
19 people are currently reading
936 people want to read
About the author
Elle Preston
3 books54 followersElle Preston is a busy mom to a gaggle of small humans and furbabies. When she is not cleaning up messes, she can be found with her face in her ipad writing young adult paranormal romance novels (which some speculate she does as an escape from all the messes).
Elle's debut novel, Illusions, is the first in the Ravens of Darkness series. Book Two, Reflections was released November 2021. She is currently working on Book Three, Deceptions, set for release in Spring 2023.
Elle sets her stories on the shores of Lake Michigan where she loves to walk the beach and hike in the Indiana Dunes with her husband and kids.
Visit Elle Preston online:
Website
https://read.ellebooks.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/EllePrestonAuthor/
Instagram: instagram.com/elleprestonauthor/
Amazon Author Page:
amazon.com/Elle-Preston/e/B07C5VPZR8
Elle's debut novel, Illusions, is the first in the Ravens of Darkness series. Book Two, Reflections was released November 2021. She is currently working on Book Three, Deceptions, set for release in Spring 2023.
Elle sets her stories on the shores of Lake Michigan where she loves to walk the beach and hike in the Indiana Dunes with her husband and kids.
Visit Elle Preston online:
Website
https://read.ellebooks.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/EllePrestonAuthor/
Instagram: instagram.com/elleprestonauthor/
Amazon Author Page:
amazon.com/Elle-Preston/e/B07C5VPZR8
Ratings & Reviews
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
May 22, 2023
Thank you Netgalley and BooksGoSocial for the chance to read Illusions by Elle Preston. This is the first in the series Ravens of darkness, and was originally published in 2015. I am a sucker for YA paranormal/fantasy and the cover was so gorgeous it sucked me in. I found the beginning slow, but I enjoyed the read overall, the characters were fantastic and am looking forward to the 2nd book.
May 21, 2019
I am not usually a fan of books that are written in the first person but in this case it really fits the style of the book and is enjoyable to read. The impressive descriptions in this novel allow you to feel as the character has felt, some of the more creepy scenes have sent shivers up my spine. The way the characters develop and change is wonderful and the plot twists are unexpected, making you desperate to find out what is going to happen next. The book does have a little bit of a slow start but once it gets going it is a rollercoaster of a ride that you don’t want to get off. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes fantasy / paranormal books as it was a good read and I found it difficult to put it down.
June 8, 2023
Un romance paranormal, con personajes jóvenes de preparatoria que poseen poderes como empatía, telepatía, telequinesis y manipulación de elementos, entre otros. El personaje principal es una joven llamada Evie que descubre que es especial. Pronto conoce a Talon, un guapo y misterioso compañero de clases que la seduce y ayuda a manejar sus nuevos poderes. La trama es excelente e innovadora en cuanto a lo paranormal. Hay romance que luego se vuelve una situación de abuso psicológico y físico, algo que es delicado y puede ser desencadenante para muchos además existe abuso de sustancias entre los jóvenes. Algo a notar es que la protagonista se vuelve codependiente de su relación "amorosa" y es testaruda lo cual puede provocar la frustración del lector como en mi caso. Esta es la primera parte de una saga, que me pareció entretenida, diferente y apta para adolescentes de 15 años en adelante por los temas delicados que se mencionan. Buena lectura aunque para mí no fue relevante.
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A paranormal romance, with young high school characters who possess powers such as empathy, telepathy, telekinesis and manipulation of elements, among others. The main lead is a young girl named Evie who discovers she is special. She soon meets Talon, a handsome and mysterious classmate who seduces her and helps her manage her new powers. The plot is excellent and innovative in terms of the paranormal. There is romance that then turns into a situation of psychological and physical abuse, something that is delicate and can be triggering for many, also there is substance abuse among young people. Something to note is that the female lead becomes co-dependent on her "love" relationship and is stubborn which can lead to reader frustration as in my case. This is the first part of a saga, which I found entertaining, different and suitable for teens 15 and older because of the sensitive topics mentioned. Good reading although for me it was not relevant.
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A paranormal romance, with young high school characters who possess powers such as empathy, telepathy, telekinesis and manipulation of elements, among others. The main lead is a young girl named Evie who discovers she is special. She soon meets Talon, a handsome and mysterious classmate who seduces her and helps her manage her new powers. The plot is excellent and innovative in terms of the paranormal. There is romance that then turns into a situation of psychological and physical abuse, something that is delicate and can be triggering for many, also there is substance abuse among young people. Something to note is that the female lead becomes co-dependent on her "love" relationship and is stubborn which can lead to reader frustration as in my case. This is the first part of a saga, which I found entertaining, different and suitable for teens 15 and older because of the sensitive topics mentioned. Good reading although for me it was not relevant.
April 18, 2023
This is my first encounter with Elle Preston and I must admit that I was completely taken by the concept of this story. Energy vampires is completely different take on unusual abilities or gifts if you want to call them.
Evie is involved with Talon and firmly believes that she is love with him and vice versa. What she doesn't know that is that he drains her energy and apparently so does his father. Her dreams are full of him, but she can never remember them clearly. Drew and Alex take an interest in her and she hates Alex for his intrusion of her privacy. He is telepathic and can read minds. Alex rescues her from being drained on a few occasions. They form a friendship shrouded in attraction and hatred alike. When she discovers who Talon really is and to what extent he will go through to gain her power. She doesn't quite believe Alex until she experiences what he is capable of. He is addicted to her energy and works with his father to harvest it. She is about to make a big mistake when Alex explains to her what Talon is really doing. It's a hard pill to swallow, but she takes the advice.
Alex and Evie get along most times, unless they are arguing telepathically. It's the most interesting part of the story. The ending is satisfactory but it looks like there is more to come. I really enjoyed reading this take on the story.
Evie is involved with Talon and firmly believes that she is love with him and vice versa. What she doesn't know that is that he drains her energy and apparently so does his father. Her dreams are full of him, but she can never remember them clearly. Drew and Alex take an interest in her and she hates Alex for his intrusion of her privacy. He is telepathic and can read minds. Alex rescues her from being drained on a few occasions. They form a friendship shrouded in attraction and hatred alike. When she discovers who Talon really is and to what extent he will go through to gain her power. She doesn't quite believe Alex until she experiences what he is capable of. He is addicted to her energy and works with his father to harvest it. She is about to make a big mistake when Alex explains to her what Talon is really doing. It's a hard pill to swallow, but she takes the advice.
Alex and Evie get along most times, unless they are arguing telepathically. It's the most interesting part of the story. The ending is satisfactory but it looks like there is more to come. I really enjoyed reading this take on the story.
May 6, 2019
The book as a whole was well written. The Preston definitely took her time with this one. The beginning was slow moving, but it got really good as the story progressed. I will not put any spoilers in this review as that is a terrible thing to do, but I will say to buckle your seatbelts as this book will take you on a joyous ride. I appreciate when i story is told with great imagery and beautiful characters. I will definitely be checking to see if this author has written more stories. This book deserves a chance to be read by all.
Flow: 4 out of 5
Plot storyline: 4 out of 5
Characters: 5 out of 5
Imagery: 5 out of 5
Flow: 4 out of 5
Plot storyline: 4 out of 5
Characters: 5 out of 5
Imagery: 5 out of 5
March 12, 2024
I really enjoyed this book. After getting stung by a wasp and having a bad allergic reaction, Evie Willow starts experiencing other people's emotions and is getting overwhelmed by the experience. At the same time, handsome, rich, Talon Renwyck takes an interest in her. Flattered and love-struck, Evie enters into a relationship with Talon that has her on the edge of danger. This is a great story, even though it is YA. There is no sex or cursing, which is a point in it's favor. I recommend this book to all lovers of supernatural romance. I got this book as an Advance Readers copy from Voracious Readers Only.
May 16, 2023
I really enjoyed this story!
This is a different book to the kind of books that I am used too and the ones I normally read but the cover and blurb attracted me and I thought I would give it a try - and I am so glad I did!
The book captivated me, it was really well written with a very addictive plot and I couldn't put it down! I am really looking forward to reading the next book in the Ravens of Darkness series!
It is 4.5 stars from me for this one, rounded up to 5 stars for Goodreads and Amazon - Very highly recommended!
This is a different book to the kind of books that I am used too and the ones I normally read but the cover and blurb attracted me and I thought I would give it a try - and I am so glad I did!
The book captivated me, it was really well written with a very addictive plot and I couldn't put it down! I am really looking forward to reading the next book in the Ravens of Darkness series!
It is 4.5 stars from me for this one, rounded up to 5 stars for Goodreads and Amazon - Very highly recommended!
May 21, 2023
First, I would like to say how absolutely stunning this cover is!
Second, I was pleasantly surprised to find there was so much more emotional depth to this YA story than I was expecting. With a paranormal storyline, this story strongly deals with addiction and abuse and having a personal familiarity with the subject, I found many of the situations to ring true. But at the same time, I kept yelling at the main character, Evie for her naivety. Overall, I enjoyed the book and am looking forward to the next one!
Second, I was pleasantly surprised to find there was so much more emotional depth to this YA story than I was expecting. With a paranormal storyline, this story strongly deals with addiction and abuse and having a personal familiarity with the subject, I found many of the situations to ring true. But at the same time, I kept yelling at the main character, Evie for her naivety. Overall, I enjoyed the book and am looking forward to the next one!
August 20, 2022
Trigger warning!
Abuse and addiction mentioned heavily throughout the book.
Not My normal grab but for a coming of age book it had me hooked. The story was well written and the characters were well developed. There were many times I internally screamed at the main characters actions but given the circumstances I get it as well.
If you really want to know- it's written in the stars.
Abuse and addiction mentioned heavily throughout the book.
Not My normal grab but for a coming of age book it had me hooked. The story was well written and the characters were well developed. There were many times I internally screamed at the main characters actions but given the circumstances I get it as well.
If you really want to know- it's written in the stars.
April 17, 2023
I absolutely loved this book. It’s so hard not to say what I loved and not give spoilers. It’s well worth the read. Evie is an amazing character and you go on this whirlwind adventure and journey with her while watching her learn more about herself through the hole thing. I can’t wait for the next one!!!
May 18, 2023
What an experience!
There is conflict and fireworks as the naive main character learns she is an empath and out of control. A hot boyfriend, childhood friends, and other gifted acquaintances help tell the story of what happens when the Ravens of Darkness set their sights on her. She has a lot to learn! It's a crazy, good book!
There is conflict and fireworks as the naive main character learns she is an empath and out of control. A hot boyfriend, childhood friends, and other gifted acquaintances help tell the story of what happens when the Ravens of Darkness set their sights on her. She has a lot to learn! It's a crazy, good book!
February 12, 2024
Hidden gifts
The story is based around a teen who is the main character. She's going through changes she can't figure out then meets a hot new student who accidentally starts coming around. He teaches her about her gifts. Mysterious and interwoven with mythology. Great read. Can't wait to read next in series.
The story is based around a teen who is the main character. She's going through changes she can't figure out then meets a hot new student who accidentally starts coming around. He teaches her about her gifts. Mysterious and interwoven with mythology. Great read. Can't wait to read next in series.
October 10, 2021
Interesting book will take you into the minds of the characters the plot and story are good. I received as a free Goodreads book.
September 9, 2023
I liked Alex and Evie’s book. It was an intriguing read. And a new author, for me. And am voluntarily leaving my review.
July 8, 2025
*4.75 stars*
May 20, 2023
This is my first time reading by Elle Preston. Did I sign up for more book news after? Yes. Yes I did. I didn't think I would like this book too much, but I was very wrong. The plot was so addictive to read.
It did starts slow, and take me a while to read however after that initial slow stage I could NOT drop it.
Started it in a day, finished it the same day. I'm sure that says enough.
The characters were loveable. I enjoyed reading more about them and VAMPIRES. HELL YES. I've never read a book that includes vampires but I will certainly be reading more.
This book is fantasy/paranormal activity.
The ending has me wanting to get Reflections right now!
It did starts slow, and take me a while to read however after that initial slow stage I could NOT drop it.
Started it in a day, finished it the same day. I'm sure that says enough.
The characters were loveable. I enjoyed reading more about them and VAMPIRES. HELL YES. I've never read a book that includes vampires but I will certainly be reading more.
This book is fantasy/paranormal activity.
The ending has me wanting to get Reflections right now!
November 15, 2023
This book starts off slow. There is so much flopping back and forth by the main character that you may get a bit of whiplash in the first 2/3! HOWEVER, the world is well built, the characters are fleshed out (albeit slowly) and the tension is high. Definitely looking forward to the next in the series.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews